THE ONE WHERE RACHEL WEARS INDIAN COUTURE

Bazaar India speaks to legendary costume designer Debra Mcguire about gender-fluidity in fashion, the trends that have stood the test of time, and dressing Jennifer Aniston in Manish Malhotra finery.

- MEGHNA SHARMA

Harper’s Bazaar: You are a multi-hyphenate, dabbling in art, fashion, jewellery design, and more. Which role brings you the most creative satisfaction?

Debra Mcguire: “I have the ability to dive deep in order to stay inspired and engaged. If I am not getting enough in one area, then I must move into another. Sometimes, costume work is extremely creative; sometimes, not so much. When it’s not, I make time to be in my studio and paint. I do think my future will have much more studio time in it.”

HB: Through F.R.I.E.N.D.S, one of the most-watched shows ever, you gave us some truly unforgettable style moments. What would you say are the key pillars of a stylish wardrobe?

DM: “I designed the clothes to fit each character in the show. And I designed by colour palette and texture since the group of six was often together making a visual assemblage. Ross was seen in earthy corduroys, Chandler in vintage tweeds, Joey in flannels and textures, Monica in grey, white, black, and reds; Jennifer in blues and greens; and Phoebe in flowy patterns. This defined them and made each character unique. Personally, my advice is to ‘know thyself ’. Dress for your body, because a certain trend may not be right for you. And learn how to express yourself through shoes and accessories if the clothes don’t agree with your body.”

HB: You worked with Jennifer Aniston on F.R.I.E.N.D.S for over a decade, along with several other projects. What was it like working with her again for Murder Mystery 2?