A stylist may not get as much prominence and recognition as a designer, but Neeraja Kona is not in the least bit bothered by that.
A graduate of the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising in Los Angeles, she completed a summer programme at the London School of Fashion before working with big labels such as Michael Kors and Louis Vuitton in the USA.
The celebrity stylist joined the Tollywood industry in 2012 and ever since, she has worked with the likes of Jr NTR, Kajal Agarwal, Samantha, Allu Arjun, Yami Gautham and Nitin.
Being film dialogue writer Kona Venkat’s sister, Neeraja admits to having had an easy entry into the industry, which is otherwise difficult to crack. “I had worked in the fashion industry for six years earlier but the film industry is very different. It’s very competitive and tough. There are long nights, hectic schedules, costume changes, and non-stop travel. I was fortunate to have an easy entry but after that, it was anything but easy. To begin with, working with such big stars was very intimidating,” admits personal stylist to stars Samantha and Nitin.
“I first worked with Sam and Nitin on their films, after which they signed me on as their personal stylist,” Neeraja says, adding, “Sam and I share a good equation as we have similar tastes. Besides, she attends a lot of social events and wants to be at the top of her game from the styling point of view.
Looking good is very important these days and several film stars are more than happy appointing good stylists, irrespective of their age and experience.”
Not everyone is lucky enough to have relatives in the industry, so what advice does she have for those who are starting out? “You can’t work with A-listers or start your own business right away, so it’s a good idea to start as an intern. Apart from the overseas travel and the opportunity to work with celebs, the work of a stylist is not all that glamorous. So, maintain a realistic attitude when pursuing this profession. Go to designers or approach the stylists at their studios and they may just employ you.”
