Indian Designer JJ Valaya Makes His Mark In Hollywood With Black Panther: Wakanda Forever
The ace Indian brand teamed up with Oscar-winning costume designer Ruth E. Carter to create looks for one of this year’s most-loved films
The Black Panther: Wakanda Forever fever is yet to die, and fans can’t help but obsess over the spectacular roles played by some of their favourite actors.
And one of the most notable performances was none other than Angela Bassett, who portrayed Queen Romona. While her acting garnered positive reviews from all over, her fashion game in the movie did not go unnoticed by fans and fashion enthusiasts alike. Executed by 2019 Oscar award-winning costume designer Ruth E. Carter, the impeccable outfits indeed made a statement.
Wakanda Forever saw some unique and stylish ensembles, including the white pearl-embellished dress during King T’Challa’s funeral, were created by one of India’s most renowned brands, House of Valaya, founded by the ace designer, JJ Valaya.
The designer duo’s first partnership was in 2021 for the Amazon original, Coming 2 America, starring Eddie Murphy. Amongst 39 international designers, JJ was one and he had designed 18 costumes for the film.
JJ Valaya’s designing genius is projected in some of the most powerful scenes in the movie. For example, in the opening scene of Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, Queen Ramona is seen at the UN, wearing a purple velvet dress with gold embellishments and accessories that adorn the newly appointed queen of Wakanda.
The Indian creative, known for his intricate designs and stone works, didn’t shy away from using his signature style in the costumes for the movie. For example, in the scene where Queen Ramona holds a meeting with her council members, she is spotted in a red dress with brown embellishments and a cape.
The designer who has just made his mark in Hollywood has long been loved by his Bollywood counterparts. The designer founded House of Valaya in 1992 and has been spotted on famous A-listers like Cate Blanchett, Vidya Balan, Sonam Kapoor Ahuja, Kiara Advani, and many more.
Bazaar Arabia‘s previous cover star and one of Bollywood’s most stylish celebrities Sonam Kapoor Ahuja has been spotted in JJ Valaya’s creations often and has been called a forever muse by the designer.
Kiara Advani, one of Bollywood’s most loved actress, has been spotted in JJ’s sebra print saree from his Nomade series, a sustainable bridge-to-luxury brand.
Vidya Balan is an undisputed queen when it comes to carrying sarees with panache. The star has been spotted in JJ’s sarees quite often, especially during her film promotions.
Lead image courtesy of Instagram/@JJValaya