Q&a / Waris Ahluwalia’s top 8 style finds: the New York-based actor, jewellery designer and beverage brand founder on his favourite hotels, travel destinations, style icons and grooming products

Aug 20 , 2024

Waris Ahluwalia. Photo: Christophe Rihet

Waris Ahluwalia has acted in two Wes Anderson films, including The Grand Budapest Hotel, and just launched his House of Waris Botanicals brand at The Upper House in Hong Kong

The multi-hyphenate renaissance man shares his thoughts on New York, Positano and living in the strange time dimension that a new baby brings

New York-based Waris Ahluwalia is a true jack of all trades. The multi-hyphenate renaissance man, who has acted in two Wes Anderson films, including The Grand Budapest Hotel, and other Hollywood productions, is also a jewellery designer and has worked with countless luxury brands, most recently pen maker Montblanc.

Love Conquers All from House of Waris Botanicals. Photo: Handout

He is also the founder of House of Waris Botanicals, a line of “healing adaptogenic blends and sustainable elephant friendly tea”, and Love Conquers All, “a sparkling, non-alcoholic elixir” that recently launched at The Upper House in Hong Kong.

What I’m reading

The Big Goodbye by Sam Wasson. Photo: Handout

These books are on my bedside table: Becoming Supernatural by Dr Joe Dispenza, The Big Goodbye by Sam Wasson and What is Love? by Mac Barnett. Except for that last one, I’m not sure if they’re being read right now, as we’ve just had a baby and time exists in dimensions I never knew were possible.

My grooming routine

La Prairie Platinum Rare Eye Elixir. Photo: Handout

Ffern makes a new organic scent every season taking inspiration from the natural world – ever changing. I use argan oil from Morocco for my beard. It softens the texture and gives it a shine. I also like La Prairie Platinum Rare Eye Elixir – as the years keep adding up, a little help is always appreciated – and Muri Lelu serum and oil – I love the way they smell and feel on my face, especially after a long flight.

My go-to New York hangs

The Hotel Chelsea spa in New York. Photo: Handout

The new spa at the Hotel Chelsea – it’s the softest way to lose a few hours in a crazy city. I also enjoy sitting at the outdoor tables at Casino with a delicious plate of pasta watching the world go by; a late night of antics and revelry in the whisper room at The Mulberry; and a night of jazz at Fasano – if you’re lucky, you’ll catch a Bebel Gilberto performance.

The ideal souvenir from my hometown

Jack’s Wife Freda’s Everything Sauce. Photo: Handout