Ashley Rebello on Styling Emraan Hashmi and Yami Gautam Dhar in Haq: “She loved my work so much that she even offered me her next film”

Ashley Rebello has earned widespread praise for creating the grounded, lived-in aesthetic of Haq, the film headlined by Emraan Hashmi and Yami Gautam Dhar. While the performances and writing have captivated audiences, the authentic representation of Muslim culture through styling has become one of the film’s most celebrated highlights. Rebello shaped this world through clothing that felt real, intimate, and deeply rooted in identity.

Speaking about his experience, Ashley shares that working with Emraan in such a refreshing and understated look felt like a privilege. He recalls their very first conversation, where the actor expressed how important it was for him to play a Muslim character with honesty. Ashley brought a series of references to the table and Emraan embraced them with enthusiasm. Once the trials began, the actor quickly connected with the silhouettes, fabrics, and accessories created for his character.

Emraan’s affection for the styling went beyond the set. According to Ashley, the actor admired the custom pieces so much that he wanted similar outfits made for his family, including his father. From the handcrafted topis and jackets to the kurta pajamas and chappals, Emraan appreciated the precision and warmth that went into every detail.

Ashley holds equally high regard for Yami Gautam Dhar, calling her one of the nicest and most effortless collaborators of his career. He describes her as someone who places complete trust in her stylist, a quality that allows creativity to shine. Yami connected deeply with every outfit presented to her, whether it was her shararas, shalwars, kurtas, or the delicate dupattas that layered her character’s visual identity. She also cherished the wedding outfit designed for Shahzia Bano and wished she could have worn more of it.

The finer elements of Yami’s look also left an impression. Ashley reveals that she admired the rings, the nose pin, the earrings, the toe rings, and the shawls that contributed to the character’s quiet beauty. Every small detail was crafted to make Shahzia Bano feel real and Yami noticed all of it.

Ashley’s work has not only been applauded by audiences but has also touched those closest to the cast. Yami’s mother personally complimented him on how beautiful her daughter looked in the film and how seamlessly the styling blended into the story. For Ashley, such responses from seasoned individuals in the industry and from families of the actors feel especially meaningful.

Yami’s appreciation extended beyond the film. She was so impressed with Ashley’s work on Haq that she immediately offered him her next project, a collaboration he has already begun. For Ashley, this gesture speaks volumes about her integrity and the sincerity she brings to cinema. With Haq, Ashley Rebello has crafted a visual language that supports the soul of the story. His styling has played a major role in shaping how viewers connect with the characters, proving once again why he remains one of the most trusted names in the industry.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What makes Ashley Rebello’s styling in Haq stand out for Emraan Hashmi’s character?

Ashley created an authentic Muslim look for Emraan using handcrafted topis, custom jackets, kurta pajamas, and chappals. The styling stayed rooted in simple, lived-in details that helped Emraan portray the character with cultural accuracy.

2. How did Yami Gautam Dhar’s look in Haq reflect her character, Shahzia Bano?

Yami’s wardrobe used soft fabrics, earthy colours, delicate dupattas, shararas, and traditional jewellery. Each accessory, from her nose ring to toe rings, was chosen to highlight Shahzia Bano’s graceful personality and her cultural environment.

3. Why did Yami offer Ashley Rebello her next film after working on Haq?

Yami appreciated his attention to detail, trust-based working style, and the way every outfit enriched her character. She felt the styling elevated her performance, which motivated her to immediately bring Ashley on board for her next project.

4. Did Emraan Hashmi have any personal favourites from his styling in Haq?

Yes. Emraan loved the custom-made pieces so much that he requested similar outfits for his family. His favourites included the handmade topis, jackets, and comfortable kurtas designed for the film.

5. How did audiences react to the styling in Haq?

Viewers appreciated the authenticity and subtlety of the costumes. Many felt the clothes blended smoothly with the storytelling, and even Yami’s mother personally praised Ashley for presenting her daughter so beautifully on screen.