The series 'Beyond Beauty' delves into the pervasive impact of beauty on every facet of our lives, emphasizing its role as a celebration of individuality and a medium for self-expression. Beauty is a dialogue everyone engages in—both internally and with others—and we're delving into that by examining individuals' personal encounters with it.
Pernia Qureshi is an entrepreneur (she was the founder of Pernia’s Pop-Up Shop and Gur Organics and is now building Saritoria, a platform dedicated to rehoming designer wear), a stylist (she styled the fashion film Aisha), a Kuchipudi dancer and a mom. If social media is anything to go by, she has a very full plate. But it’s a plate filled with fantastic fashion moments, and bold beauty looks that correspond to them. We spoke to Pernia about beauty and beyond, she shares her approach to skincare, what inspires her perception of beauty, and what it means to her now.
What does beauty look like to you now?
I define beauty as a feeling. The feeling of comfort, exuberance and peace.
Can you share any examples of how cultural or historical concepts of beauty have influenced your own ideas and perceptions about the same?
Growing up my beauty standards were set by films. I was a huge cinephile and looked up to these beautiful, glamorous actors. My beauty idols growing up were Sonali Bendre, Susmita Sen, Julia Roberts and Madhuri Dixit. As an adult, I have come to understand that the most beautiful people are those that exude confidence, grace and a sense of security.
How do you see the intersection of beauty and fashion today?
Fashion and beauty have always intersected. It is about the whole "look". A great outfit with the wrong makeup does not work. The two industries are complementary to each other.
More than fashion, I see the makeup and influencer industries shaping the concept of beauty today. Enhancing your face with the right makeup and filters for social media seems to be the goal. I come from an entirely different school of thought. For me, looking naturally beautiful with healthy skin and luscious hair IRL is the goal.
What is your skincare routine like?
For my skin and hair I drink plenty of water, eat dry fruits, cleanse my face every night and use bio oil for all emergencies and woes.
How has your background as a traditional dancer informed your ideas about beauty?
Being a classical dancer has made me get rid of inhibitions and accept myself as I am. It is very freeing because when you are immersed in your performance you forget about how you look. The self-assuredness, which is so beautiful in person, comes from the discipline of dance.
Has being a mom also changed the way you view beauty?
Being a mother has forced me to think about being less critical and more accepting of my flaws. I am aware that my daughter is going to be directly influenced by the dialogue I have with myself and I need to make sure it is always full of self love.
Sustainability plays a big role in your vision for your fashion entrepreneurship. Does that apply to your personal beauty and wellness practices as well?
I try to use small measures that I can sustain in my daily life. Two examples of that would be using a bamboo toothbrush and using a reusable water bottle that travels with me everywhere.
