'It's time to make re-wearing outfits fashionable'

NEW DELHI: In a world where fast fashion reigns and the idea of repeating outfits is often met with disapproval, designer Rina Dhaka is championing a shift towards sustainability. Dhaka believes fashion doesn’t have to be disposable and that reusing clothes should be seen as stylish. “We need to make re-wearing outfits fashionable,” she urged.
Speaking at an interactive session organised by FICCI-FLO on Tuesday, titled "How to Be the Best Version of Yourself," Dhaka was one of seven panellists captivating the audience with her insights.What left the crowd particularly inspired was when she told them about the ‘30 Wears rule’.
The 30 Wears rule encourages consumers to ask themselves whether they would wear a particular piece of clothing at least 30 times before making a purchase. By doing so, it promotes more mindful shopping habits and helps reduce textile waste, advocating for a longer life cycle for each item of clothing. Dhaka's message was clear: sustainability and style can go hand in hand, and mindful fashion choices are the way forward.
During the session, panelists touched on a variety of topics—from how improving posture can enhance one’s appearance to the importance of incorporating Indian textiles into everyday fashion.
Another panelist, Nelofar Currimbhoy, daughter of beauty mogul Shahnaz Husain and a veteran of the industry, offered a fresh perspective on beauty, emphasising that it extends far beyond appearances. "Beauty is a tool for cultivating self-worth," she shared, highlighting its deeper role in personal empowerment. "It's not just women who are conscious of their looks—men are, too. But for women, dressing up can be an act of empowerment, a way to express confidence and strength."
Currimbhoy was quick to clarify, however, that beauty isn’t about spending hours in a salon. "We’re not advocating that women should chase perfection with endless treatments. What matters most is authenticity."
Rina Dhaka echoed this sentiment, adding a modern-day twist. "In an era where real faces are increasingly replaced by silicone, the focus should shift to grooming and hygiene, rather than chasing artificial ideals." Dhaka’s words underscored the need for a return to simplicity—celebrating beauty that’s rooted in self-care and self-respect.
For the session the panelists included fashion designers such as Leena Singh, Neenal Pratap Rudy, Rina Dhaka, and Nelofar Currimbhoy, Tanu Jain, Aditya Dhir from the jeweler industry, and Donna Masih, who is a Fashion Model and Fashion Lifestyle Influencer.
Donna emphasised the powerful impact of good posture on enhancing one’s personality and presence. In today’s world, where we’re constantly glued to our phones, poor posture—especially a hunched neck—has become all too common. "A strong posture speaks volumes," she explained. "It’s essential for making a positive impression, particularly in first meetings or public interactions."
She went on to highlight how crucial first impressions can be, often setting the tone for success or failure. "Your first impression can make or break a situation," Donna remarked. "Sometimes, it’s not about what you say, but how you present yourself. Non-verbal cues, like posture, can make you seem approachable and open, encouraging others to engage in conversation." Her advice was clear: standing tall not only boosts confidence but also opens doors to meaningful connections. The only male panelist among the group also gave some jewellery styling tips, saying now less is more.
When an audience member at the event candidly asked for tips on how to look more camera-ready, the panelists eagerly offered their advice. Donna chimed in first, suggesting that side profiles and angled poses often work best on camera. "A slight turn can make all the difference," she said, hinting at the magic of finding flattering angles.
Nelofar Currimbhoy added her own expert tip, particularly for group photos. "In a group shot, try stepping back from the others slightly," she advised. "It creates a better perspective and can give you a more flattering angle in the frame." Both panellists emphasised that small adjustments can dramatically improve how you present yourself on camera, making every shot count.
As the session wrapped up, Leena and Rina treated the audience to live styling demonstrations, showing how a few layers and simple outfit choices can transform a look from ordinary to chic. Meanwhile, Donna took the stage to offer practical advice on perfecting body posture and enhancing overall presentation, reminding everyone that how you carry yourself is just as important as what you wear. Together, their demos provided a seamless blend of fashion and confidence tips, leaving the crowd inspired to elevate their style and presence.