Objective

This post explores the visual and stylistic design of my protagonist Anaya, focusing on how her appearance, age, fashion, and haircut communicate her personality and emotional arc in my Short film.


Character Overview

  • Name: Anaya
  • Age: 17
  • Role: Human protagonist; represents emotional authenticity and vulnerability.
  • Personality Traits: Empathetic, introspective, gentle, slightly withdrawn, creative.

I wanted to design Anaya in a way that feels realistic and grounded, but still cinematic, a girl who blends into everyday life yet carries quiet emotional depth.


Appearance & Features

  • Age Range Look: 16–18 years
  • Skin Tone: Medium tan (South Asian warmth)
  • Makeup: Minimal, natural, soft blush and lip tint only.
  • Body Language: Shoulders slightly slouched; subtle hand movements when nervous.




Fashion & Costume Design

Anaya’s wardrobe evolves throughout the film to reflect her emotional journey:

  • Flashbacks (with Arvin): Warm-toned oversized T-shirts, loose cotton shirts, casual skirts or jeans.
  • Represents comfort and emotional warmth
  • Present Day (after disconnection): Cool-toned T shirts, neutral colours (grey, blue, white).
  • Represents emptiness and grief.
  • End Scene (acceptance): Light pastels and natural tones.

  • Symbolises healing and reconnection with reality

Hairstyle Design

  • Flashbacks: Loose, wavy hair, natural movement in outdoor light.
  • Present: Tied back in a messy bun, simple, practical, slightly tired look.

Hair styling helps visually separate timelines without dialogue, showing emotional transitions purely through mise-en-scène.



Reflection
Designing Anaya visually helped me anchor her emotional realism. Her look feels authentic to a modern South Asian teenager, comfortable, expressive, yet understated.
 The gradual shift in colour and style mirrors her emotional evolution from illusion to grief to acceptance.