Diana Penty is quite the sensation every time she walks the ramp. Whether it’s her debut at the Indo-Italian Festival in 2005 (for Italian designers Nicola Trussardi and Gianfranco Ferré) or the more recent Blenders Pride Fashion Tour (BPFT), the model-turned-actress captures our attention with her grace and confidence. This time, she was the muse for her long-time friend and celebrity designer Rohit Bal at the BPFT, held in Mumbai, last Wednesday. “I’ve always looked up to Rohit. His designs are classic and royal, almost transporting you to a palace. Look at me, I feel so regal today,” says the 33-year-old, pointing to her black floor-length cocktail number (in pic) with floral embroidery and bell sleeves. What’s notable is that some of Diana’s first shows were with Rohit himself. “My career began with his shows. And, here I am today. Life has come a full circle,” she adds.
Having been in the modelling industry for more than a decade now, Diana says that walking the ramp comes rather naturally to her now, and we can’t help but agree! The diva has earlier modelled for international fashion and beauty brands and Indian designers including Wendell Rodricks and Rina Dhaka, among others. “It’s been so many years that I feel like a natural now, but I’d be lying if I said that I walk the ramp without any prep. There are many rounds of hair, make-up and fittings. Of course, right shoes are so important to make sure you don’t fall in the middle of the show,” she shares.
Style check
While she does work with several designers and stylists daily, when away from the stage of glitz and glam, Diana likes to keep her style simple. “My personal style is very laid back, like my constant mood. Minimal and understated define me,” says the Mumbai-based actress, adding that she applies the same rule for her skincare as well. “There are so many products being used on my skin for work. When I’m at home or on a vacation, I let my skin breathe. I believe that less is more for skincare. A good cleanser, face wash and toner are my must-haves. During the day, I use a water-based moisturiser and a cream-based lotion for the night, along with an under eye cream.”
Celluloid trajectory
Long after her runway debut, Diana entered the cinema industry, making quite a mark with her portrayal of the innocent and shy Meera — a simple Indian girl with traditional values in Cocktail (2012). Her performance earned her nominations at numerous Indian award ceremonies including one at International Indian Film Academy (IIFA). However, she was rather absent in the circuit for the next four years, until she made a comeback with her role of a runaway bride in Happy Bhaag Jayegi. Although the break wasn’t planned, Diana has often said that she wanted to do unconventional films and not anything that came her way. Rightly so, in her filmography of five films, Diana has portrayed some memorable and challenging roles including a diligent NGO worker Gayatri Kashyap in Lucknow Central and Capt Ambalika Bandopadhyay in Parmanu: The Story of Pokhran. “I always look for interesting stories because that is what brings the audience to the theatres. The film needs to have a compelling plot and it’s important my character plays a pivotal role to the story,” Diana signs off.
In her closet
1. A perfect-fitting pair of denim
2. A crisp white shirt
3. A comfortable pair of heels