3 Fits With Ali Fazal
The charismatic actor shows off his masterful style props
It might come as a surprise that the man who brought Guddu’s raw intensity to life in Mirzapur looks to the world’s most sophisticated spy for style inspiration. But yes, 007 was the agent of change who sparked his love for menswear. “When I started watching movies as a youngster, I always wondered how James Bond could look good and still save the world. I think that was the first fascination with the perfect suit—one that just moves with you, you know?” he says, effortlessly owning the moment in Esquire India’s 3 Fits.
You’ve made some bold style statements on the red carpet — what inspires your fearless approach to fashion?
I don’t think I take that many risks… maybe once in a while, a pop here and there, but it’s tied to what I’m going through. Fashion is an extension of that moment in life. When you see me in those pops, it means I’m passionate about something—whether it’s something sad, exciting or even a mix of thoughtfulness and worry. It’s a sartorial manifestation.
Are there any designers who inspire your style choices?
Oh man, so many... Alexander McQueen, I think he was a genius. John Galliano... a lot of controversial people! (laughs)
Any look from the ’80s or ’90s that you’d like to bring back?
The FUBU look—I was just talking about it to the crew. I think there’s space for it now, it’s slowly creeping back in. Vintage always works, large lapels maybe.
What would you never ever wear?
I have a problem with body-hugging tone-on-tone anything.
If you had to wear one outfit for the rest of your life, what would it consist of?
Oh, that’s easy! I have this really nice pin-striped double-breasted jacket with a white T-shirt and denims. And boots or maybe Keds.
What are you currently on the hunt for?
A nice leather jacket.
Speaking of things you could do forever, what about acting do you love most?
It’s the same feeling I got when waking up early for my basketball matches in school—pure playtime, you know? The only part I don’t enjoy as much is having to talk about it (laughs), but I guess it all goes hand-in-hand.
You’ve often spoken about your feminist values. How has the influence of your feminist mother shaped your worldview?
I’ve always had very strong women around me in life. As much as I’ve missed having a father figure and his presence, my mom covered both sides. Almost religiously, she would take me for movies on weekends—I also read a lot of books—and all that really came to my rescue when the shit was hitting the fan.
And now you’re a girl dad. Would you call yourself a hands-on parent to Zuneyra?
You have to be. I’ve had to realign everything in life in terms of schedules. In whatever way I can flank my wife, I want to be able to do it, because she’s done the heavy lifting and no matter how much I do, it’s not enough.
What are the things you enjoy doing during your downtime?
Lego! I love Lego (laughs). And I love books; right now, I’m reading Elif Shafak’s There Are Rivers in the Sky. It’s really interesting.
Two quirky things no one knows about you?
I’m very particular about food—the taste of it. If I wasn’t an actor, I’d probably be a chef. The second quirk, if we can call it that, is looking for the exits wherever I go. I have to know my exits—and it’s not a commitment issue thing—don’t get into that! (laughs)
Photographs by Mourya Dandu
Styled by Selman Fazil
Fashion Assistant: Yaikhom Sushiru
Hair & Make-up: Arbaj Ali
Production: P Productions
Location Courtesy: Grand Hyatt Mumbai
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