Actor John Abraham has swapped his customary grunge look for matured urban chic in "Baabul", says his dress-designer for the film.

"The audience has always seen John in a puerile look in a pair of jeans with or without a T-shirt. I have tried to make him look good with clothes on," said designer Narendra Kumar, who planned the hunky star's "Baabul" wardrobe.

Kumar, who stressed on the cut and fit of the couture, said: "It is a mature film and John's character demanded a grown up look. Hence, I have designed a hip line of casual suits and sherwanis (traditional attire) for him."

"Great emphasis has been placed on detailing, the cut and fit to give John a completely new shape. There are jackets that will highlight an urban chic look," Kumar told.

The colour palette moves from beige to cream and blue to darker shades. Kumar has also used linen splendidly but not much of texturing has been done with the fabric, which is festooned with Indian thread work and appliqué.

"John plays a singer in the movie, so accessories are not so heavy. I believe the designs of this film will give him a makeover," added Kumar, describing the macho actor as "very cooperative and patient".

Neeta Lulla, veteran actor Hema Malini's dress designer for the same film, said: "I have been working for Hema-ji since a long time. It is fun to work with her, as there is nothing to hold back. She carries off everything so well.

"In 'Baabul', she plays the role of a woman of today whose life revolves around her family. She enjoys life and her character is vivacious so I have used all colours and vibrant embroidery in her saris."

Lulla chose fabrics like georgette and chiffon for Hema's line, but the collection also has some two-piece saris.

"All the saris are not one piece. There are some two-piece ones as well where I have designed a skirt teamed with a dupatta (stole). But the grace and style with which Hema-ji carries it off is just commendable," she added.