For Siddhant Chaturvedi, the most enduring fashion moments have little to do with trends. They come from actors whose personal style is so distinctive that it transcends the screen. Talking about being influenced by Salman Khan’s style, Siddhant says, “Salman Khan in the ’90s had a completely different kind of influence. The denim, leather jackets, fitted tees, relaxed shirts, even the way he wore a basic vest… it felt effortless and accessible. You didn’t just watch those looks on screen; guys actually wanted to dress like him. That, to me, is when an actor creates a real fashion identity.”‘Amitabh Bachchan’s wardrobe had so much character’Siddhant also cites Amitabh Bachchan as another actor whose wardrobe became part of his screen identity. “Amitabh Bachchan’s wardrobe had so much character — the high-neck sweaters, trench coats, flared trousers, boots, jackets. There was a certain sophistication to it, but also masculinity and attitude. He could make something as simple as a sweater and trousers feel iconic.”He sees the same lasting power in Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham, where every character had a distinct fashion language. “That film really understood style as an extension of personality. Every character had such a distinct fashion identity, from Rahul’s understated, classic looks to Poo’s unapologetic glamour. And decades later, those looks are still referenced and recreated.”‘Don’t wait for permission to be yourself’Ask him about his red-carpet choices and he says, “For me, red carpet fashion is about finding the balance between making a statement and still feeling like yourself. I don’t want to wear something just because it’s expected of me. I like experimenting, but there has to be some instinct behind the look.”And what would be the one fashion advice he would give youngsters? “Don’t wait for permission to be yourself. Experiment, make mistakes, change your mind, that’s all part of growing. Not everyone has to understand your journey. If what you’re creating feels honest to you, keep going,” he concludes.