Model and influencer Ishant Ghulyani. Image supplied.
Ishant Ghulyani first caught our eye on Instagram for his polished style and positive attitude. The 27 year old Indian-born Kiwi is a model, influencer and regularly competes in fitness competitions alongside his day job at the Indian High Commission in Wellington. Ishant’s love of fashion comes through in his stylishly curated Instagram which aside from showcasing his chic fashion sense also documents his achievements including Mr Auckland Diwali runner up 2019. He has modeled for a range of local and Australian brands so far and featured in the pages of NZ Bride & Groom. With his ever-growing social media following and effortless style, we predict we’ll see a lot more of Ishant Ghulyani in future.
We caught up with Ishant to find out more about his personal style, what inspires him and what you would never catch him wearing.
Where did your interest in fashion come from, and why did you decide to start sharing your style on Instagram?
As a teen, I have always been creative and strived to look my best, and my fashion journey inspired me to look my best too. Not only did it motivate me in life with my fashion and fitness routine, but it also gave me a sense of belonging. I decided to share my style on Instagram to inspire creativity in others, and I find it fun and enjoyable to mix and match different outfits.
How has your upbringing, culture and identity shaped how you view fashion?
Being brought up in New Delhi, India I have been surrounded by years of a social, cultural way of living. This influence has moulded my character. India is a country that is filled with art and culture which is a product of human activity in our daily lifestyle while I was growing up. This stimulated my senses, as well as my mind, by enabling me to transmit emotions and ideas. From this, I draw inspiration to create my own style. One common concept I keep in my mind is Look Good, Feel Good.
Describe your personal style and how it influences your photoshoots for Instagram?
I have my own style and personality, I believe we are all very different and unique in our own way.
Fashion is the style and custom that is adopted at a given period and keeps on changing from time to time. As for style, I keep up with trends and adapt to change, keeping it versatile and allowing new ideas influences my photos for Instagram.
Looks by Ishant Ghulyani.
Shooting on the street or in public can be unpredictable. Have you had any funny or embarrassing moments trying to get a great shot?
Well, not as such tbh but this is one of the questions I get asked most often that relates to the shooting location, outdoor shoots, or getting clicked in public places. Initially, I used to get a little conscious while shooting in public as most of my photos are taken outdoor but being a fashion model/ blogger undoubtedly I always keep it professional. I run into people/encounter them while changing locations and posing accordingly.
Here are some tips which I follow to make things a little less awkward for myself and for others while shooting:
– I try to find an isolated spot
– Always do my homework
– Be spontaneous at times
– Know what you want
– Find out what works for you the best
– Don’t make eye contact
– Keep it professional and be considerate
– Remember that people care less than you think they do
How do you go about creating the perfect outfit, and do you have any style rules?
I like to combine expensive taste with easier to wear clothing, a mix and match of luxury and basics.
All I follow is the feeling when I wear any outfit is that “This Is Me” and a brilliant version of me. I never think twice while investing in myself.
I always keep myself presentable in terms of grooming, clothing and my soft skills (top-notch). I do play with outfits and colours, I make sure to carry it with confidence.
What wardrobe item should everyone invest in?
For me, a good investment for every person is raw denim jeans, a classic overcoat, a good pair of shoes, and you really can’t go wrong with these. One should know how to play around.
What is your all-time favourite purchase?
Jeans, a basic t-shirt, sneakers and a cool biker jacket (always works!).
Looks by Ishant Ghulyani.
Do you have any style icons who inspire you?
What has inspired my journey is social media. Being able to see so many different people from around the world sharing their lives in pictures and videos inspired me to create something I have a passion for and share it online with others.
I don’t have a favourite style icon but there are many inspirational style icons out there that bring inspiration to the table.
Who are your favourite local designers/brands?
I Love Ugly, Barkers, Rodd and Gunn, Jasmeeta and Jaiss Fashion Limited.
How important is it to you to support local brands? (not just fashion but in general)
If you live and work in New Zealand, then you probably care about keeping your jobs due to COVID-19. This is why it’s important to support locally made fashion wherever possible. This is more important if you work in a creative field. If there is a decline in local manufacturing, then this also means a decline in creativity. Clothing manufacturing is just an example of many industries now struggling to survive. I have been working with so many local brands lately, love their passion to grow and provide at its best. We need to support local to keep our economy afloat as well.
What are your favourite Instagram accounts to follow?
@rowanrow
@garyvee
@iamgalla
@teachingmensfashion
Finish this sentence – You would never catch me wearing…
Anything too colourful or sparkly unless its a themed occasion.
Images supplied.