Author: Archana

Archana is the Founder and Chief Editor of Blog - FashionForRoyals.com. Fashion is so much more than the latest trend or the must-have item of the season. It is one of the strongest personal statements that you can make. Follow my blog to keep updated on all the latest fashion and beauty style posts from me.

Five Fashion Week Must Have Accessories

Fashion Week Must Have Accessories

Fashion week is one of my favorite times of the year. With all of the amazing sartorial inspiration, unbelievably beautiful models and dozens of parties, what is not to love? The fifteenth edition of Lakme Fashion Week (Summer/Resort 2015) is upon us. The festivities begin next Wednesday, the 18th of March, and continue until the end of the week – a truly fashionable fiesta, if I may say so.

Glitz and glamour aside, fashion week can be exhausting after the first two days of late nights, running around in high heels and skipping lunch. This year, keep these five accessories on your person at all times to make fashion week more fun and less frantic.

Oversize Sunglasses

Nothing screams chic like a pair of oversized sunnies, but this accessory has a greater purpose too – it is the best thing in your handbag for covering those dark eye bags after a night of partying. Plus, it saves you the hassle of having to apply intense eye makeup before an early morning show. Pair your sunglasses with a bold lipstick and you are good to go.

Bottled Water

In the midst of running from show to show and making friends with the who’s who of fashion, we often forget to get our daily dose H2O, which is an essential all year round. Instead of scouring around for water once you are absolutely parched, carry a small bottle of this magic potion in your handbag so that you can stay hydrated from morning to night.

Multipurpose Stain

If you have a passion for fashion, you know that the week is going to keep you on your toes from morning till night. How does a girl find the time to apply and reapply her makeup in the midst of all of the mayhem? The trick is to keep it as simple as possible. Stick to products that are as compact as possible and can be used for more than one thing. I love a good cheek stain because it lasts for hours on end and can also double up as a lip colour. I definitely recommend that you purchase one, pronto!

Portable Charger

To my mind, the only thing that is worse than runny lipstick is having your mobile phone run out of juice when you really, really need it. And let’s be honest – we always need it and even more so during fashion week. I mean, how are you going to update your social media feeds, save numbers and squeeze in a quick blog post if you phone has died on you? Invest in a reliable portable charger before the week begins. Bonus points if it is designed well, ladies!

Comfortable Shoes

High heels might look fabulous in photographs, but they are not the most practical footwear for fashion week. You might even be able to pull it off for the first day or two, but I guarantee that by the time you reach day three, your poor feet will be crying. If you think that flat footwear cannot be stylish, think again. There are so many great options available – patent ballet flats, wedge sneakers (Isabel Marant, anyone?) and studded summery sandals that are both chic and comfortable.

Once you have all of the essentials checked off your list, you are ready to have an absolute blast. Soak up all of the goodness that fashion week has to offer whilst being at your stylish best from morning until night.

2015 Runway Make-Up Trends for the Girl-Next-Door

Hello Ladies!

Makeup-Trends-Runway

Few days back, I was flipping through the spring edition of a leading fashion magazine when the make-up section popped up. There were many pictures of glamorous models – runway stills that took my breath away. But as usual, even as I lapped up on all the 2015 make-up trends, many were too bold and rather impractical for day to day use when one is neither walking the ramp nor partying out.

That’s when I decided to invest my energies in figuring out which 2015 make-up trends are actually viable for the girl-next-door. Here are some of the very doable tips that shall keep you looking beautiful and completely in touch with the latest styles. Read on!

Skin

Ah, what should you go in for this season – heavy foundations, bronzers, shimmer or blush? The following is what the runway dictates:

  • Dewy complexion: Supple, glowing skin is what has been rocking the 2015 ramps. And to be honest, it is a wonderful style to adopt for it gives a finish that is the right balance of natural and glamorous.
  • Bronzed skin: For more special occasions, bronzed skin would be a good choice. Though, it is more of the subtle sun-kissed look as opposed to heavily-tanned skin that is being popularly sported internationally.
  • Nude finish: This one is a classic that has made a much-expected reappearance. The idea is to be minimalist in applying products. But be careful you are not negligent and end up looking completely washed out instead of fashionably bare.

Lips

Lips are the most prominent feature of a woman’s face so you need to know how to showcase them right in this season:

  • Plum shades: Deep, rich plums have been topping the charts with almost all major fashion houses advocating this lip-color. Find a shade that compliments your complexion and it can easily be your go-to make-up product for now.
  • Reds and Oranges: For those like me who are quite tired of soft, nudes shades being quite in vogue, it’s time to rejoice! Bright reds and feisty oranges have made a comeback this season and how! Time to go all out!

Eyes

So what’s in for the window’s to your soul this season? Several interesting styles have come up this season:

  • Black liquid liner: It’s time to brush up on your eye-lining skills ladies! Creamy textures are out, liquid liner is in. From simple contour-tracing lines to dramatic wings, everything has been spotted on the ramp in Spring 2015.
  • Brown and Purple shadow: This is quite a fascinating new entry. Brown and purple eye shadow of different intensity, from the darkest hues to the softest shades, have been quite the rage; versatile and suitable for both day and evening wear.

Nails

Style extends to your fingertips as well, and your nails must not be ignored. Some polish trends to follow:

  • Negative-space manicures: Graphic nail-art with some naked nail showing is much in vogue. Stock up on ideas and tips of how to paint these fancy nails yourself.
  • Baby soft shades: If the neons and bright colors aren’t your thing, you will be much relived for they have been replaced by baby soft shades (often nude and off-whites) as the ever-chic polish.

So these are the runway make-up styles that you too can carry off easily. Try them out and stay beautiful!

How to Inject Colour into Your Spring Wardrobe

Spring is just around the corner, and we’re counting down the days until the official first day of Spring. So you know what that means, ladies. It’s time to pack away your navy, grey, brown and black, and embrace a whole new wardrobe of colour!

spring-wardrobe

 

Of course, some of us are bolder than others, and we all have different tastes. For some, we wear bright colours all through the winter, cos we just don’t give a damn. For others, the thought of wearing bright nail varnishes and shocking lipsticks is just about as much as we can take, let alone statement florals, pastels and neons.

So, here you have three simple ways to inject a bit of life (and by life I do, of course, mean colour) into your Spring wardrobe. And the beauty of all of these is you can go as loud, or as subtle as you like.

spring-wardrobe-1

Accessories

Everyone loves accessories, and we all know that no outfit is truly complete without them. If you’re a little apprehensive when it comes to wearing a lot of colour, accessories can be a great place to start. However, if you love colour and couldn’t feel more comfortable in it, then accessories can add a whole extra dimension of colour to your look. Also, let’s not forget money. Of course, hitting the high street for a whole new Spring wardrobe is simply not a luxury that most of us have, but pick up a few new accessories, and not only will you transform last season’s clothes into hot-off-the-press looks, but you’ll actually feel like you have an entire new wardrobe for a mere fraction of the cost. 

spring-wardrobe-shoes

 

Shoes

If you’ve exhausted your standard accessories and want to make a slightly bigger statement, then there’s your excuse for a new pair of shoes. We all love shoes, and they are a great way to make a colourful statement without taking you a step too far outside your comfort zone. And if you’re not into your stilettos, fret not. Dozens of styles of flats, even trainers if that’s your bag, are available in a rainbow of colours to get you feeling colourful. What better way to give yourself happy feet this Spring!

spring-wardrobe-makeup

 

Makeup

Now, colourful make up, especially when you’re not used to it, can be pretty scary. The trick is to practice at home first. Literally everyone can look great with a bright eyeshadow or lip colour, but it’s about finding the right colour for you, and finding a colour palette you feel comfortable using. There’s no reason you can’t spend every day looking and more importantly feeling a million dollars, and what better way to achieve this than to treat yourself to some real, high end make up. Quality is the key here, as cheap bright make up will look, well, cheap. Lip tints and powdered eye shadows are a good starting point as you can use as much or as little as you like, and layering is always an option. Just promise us one thing: get creative and have fun!

Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Overnight Hydrating Masque Review

Keihl's Ultra Facial Overnight Hydrating MasqueLately I have become a fan of all those night-time beauty products which help your skin stay happy and healthy, working their charm while you sleep. Your nighttime regimen – from the creams and lotions to pills and potions – is meant to ensure that you wake up with bright and nourished skin. With an ultra-busy life, some of us may lack time for the CTM routine on a daily basis. I know it is highly beneficial and strongly recommended by all experts, but hey, sometimes there’s just not enough time; at least not with me, a mom to a one year old baby, juggling a wide range of priorities.

Hence, the search for that singular beauty elixir, which I can use to improve my skin as I catch up on some beauty sleep, is always on. The main concern is that my skin gets depleted of its moisture overnight, especially during the harsh winter months – this is very detrimental to its general quality. It is to prevent this that I was looking for a good nighttime skin product when I came across Keihl’s Ultra Facial Overnight Hydrating Masque. I picked it up quickly for I have used a few Kiehl’s products in past and had a great experience with them.

This gem of a masque is suitable for all skin types and is free of colorants, parabens, silicones and any fragrance as well. You are supposed apply a thick layer and leave it on for 10 minutes right before you sleep. Wipe of the excess, don’t wash it completely and simply go to bed. It is not too heavy and is almost transparent when applied to the skin. The best part is that the clear gel provides a dose of strong hydration on application. And in the morning, you are sure to wake up to beautiful, well-moisturized, supple skin.

My take on the product is that it delivers what it promises, and yes, you do open your eyes to glowing, nourished skin. I have been using it for almost two months now, and must say that it has worked wonders on my skin without me having to put in too much effort. I find it a bit sticky on the face when sleeping, but maybe that is simply because I am more of a serum-person when it comes to night time beauty products.

Spring Fashion Trends 2015

Spring Trend 2015Hello, all you lovely Divas!

With Spring season upon us, good times are here! The weather is beautiful, your woolens are packed and out come some wonderful new trends to have you look stunning. Keep your wardrobe as fresh as the air outside, especially since much of this season’s international trends reflect a revival of forgotten styles, but of course, with a twist – seems like you need to reshuffle your wardrobe! Read on and find out which essentials you need to stock up on – after all, spring is your time to shine!

Colors

This season, couture goes colorful. And no, not in the technicolors and neons of Spring 2014, but with yellows, whites and blues in abundance. Runways have witnessed much monochromatic yellow and white clothing – striking and chic, even-toned outfits, jazzed up with layering and textures. Also, bid goodbye to the classic black-and-white combo now since blue is the new black. Blue and white can be your new go-to combination.

Denims

Say Hi! to the roomy denims you pushed to the back of your closet a long time back. Ever since the skinnies came in, those flared bottoms and baggy jeans have been sitting idle in some dark, unvisited corner. But now, no more. Inspired by the 70’s ramps, loose-fitting denims have been brought back (yes, your tightly-ensconced calves and thighs can breathe again!). Team them up with silhouette-defining blouses and tiny crop-tops for a chic, well-balanced look.

Prints

In 2015, two old-timers that have been restored as far as prints go. First are gingham prints, which no longer look like picnic-sheets and table-cloths; incorporated into sheer styles and blown-up silhouettes, these checkered beauties make for interesting day-wear. The second comeback pattern is the floral – soft, feminine and flirty as it is. Sported by many on the Oscars Red Carpet, this time around, bold floral is trending high. Looks lovely too, so go get them flowery-prints asap!

Necklines

When it comes to necklines, all-or-nothing is this season’s mantra. On the one hand, one-shoulder cuts have been making a terrific statement on all runways, be it in dresses, blouses, gowns or crop-tops. In stark contrast to that, high-necklines (which are atypical of Spring Fashion) are also much in vogue; striking and chest-enhancing, these are perfect for those fashionistas who like to be bold, beautiful and ever-experimental.

Footwear and Accessories

Your feet are in for a treat because comfy shoes are back! From sneakers to simple sling-backs, everything devoid of heels shall be a fashionable success this Spring. Give your heels a rest and let the flats out – sometimes, fashion and comfort do get along! With regard to accessories, Obi belts (Kimono-style cloth sashes) of medium width are quite the craze. Cinch your waist in with these when wearing formal suits or casual skater dresses, thus adding an extra touch of grace. Other than this, sporty knick-knacks such as wristbands, visors, drawstrings and zippered bags are quite the in-thing as well. Who said sportswear is just for the gym? Not Spring 2015!

So these are the styles that models have been rocking on the runways of high-end fashion brands. Adopt these to compliment your own fashion sense and don’t hesitate to try the unfamiliar. Think about it, if not for rejuvenating Spring, when else will you explore and experiment with new styles?

Photo Credits : http://successimg.com/spring-2015-pantone-color-trends/

A Guide to your Wardrobe Spring Clean

Wardrobe Spring Clean

It’s that time of year again, ladies. Time to come out hibernation, throw those windows wide open, and have a good old clear out ready for a fresh new start this spring. As your tearfully put your onesie away with your winter clothes, do not despair.

Everyone knows that out with the old, in with the new is a fantastic excuse to hit the shops, so here is a guide to help you make space for all of those fabulous new items you know you deserve. Unsure of exactly what to throw out, donate or give away? We have compiled a simple and decisive list of five criteria for clothes that have to go, for when you can’t quite make up your mind.

 What doesn’t fit you

We all do it. We all have clothes one, two or even three sizes too small for us lurking at the back of our wardrobes. We’re all just waiting for the day that we magically shrink back down to the size 10 we were when we were 16. The truth is, though, life is too short to hold onto things that only serve as a constant reminder of something we are not, or something we have not achieved. Chuck them, and focus on looking great in clothes that fit!

 What you’ve never worn or doesn’t match anything

Anyone else have a couple of cool, quirky items in their wardrobe that they bought on a whim, and have never found the opportunity to debut them? Yep! Get rid of them. If you haven’t found a reason to wear them yet, you never will.

What needs repairing

If you’re anything like us, you have a pile of clothes that need new buttons, holes stitching up or hems re-sewn, just waiting for that moment that you think ‘I think I might do some sewing!’. This moment does not exist. Just throw out the clothes.

Anything you haven’t touched in year

If you haven’t worn a particular item in the last year or so, you’re not going to wear it again. Therefore, it’s definitely not worth keeping. Just cull anything you don’t regularly wear. Trust us, you won’t miss it.

Ugly underwear

Whoever said that it wasn’t a good underwear day every day? Let’s be honest, wearing nice underwear makes you feel sexy, even if you know that nobody’s going to see it. Just get rid of the period pants. They only make you feel slobbish and un-feminine.

New Spring WardrobeSo there you have it, a list of five definitive criteria for whittling down your wardrobe during this year’s spring clean. Be sure to start afresh, with not an item of clothing you don’t like in sight. You can thank us later.

Last weekend was when I got on with my own Spring Wardrobe Cleanup. Hope you all get to it soon.
Do share your thoughts on how your spring cleanup went.

 

Latest Fashion Trends For Brides In India

Indian-Bridal-Fashion

Women fashion has seen a vast change in India in last couple of decades, Indian women are always known to wear colorful clothing but there was a pattern in it. The clothing they used to wear were traditional and covered, women really did not have any option to flaunt their figures. It was like an unwritten rule that since you are going to be a wife from now onwards you have to always dress in a conservative manner.

B1ut the great news is that, it is a thing of the past now, as women are getting more and more adventures with their bridal attire every day. They are flaunting their curves and even taking professional’s help to look their best on the biggest day of their lives. Bridal attire is one of the biggest fashion industries in India these days. So let’s take a look at the trends that are seen in Indian weddings nowadays and what influenced these changes.

Bolder choices

Indian women who now read Vouge magazines are not afraid about wearing bolder outfits on their weddings, they do not care anymore whether their in-laws are going to love their choices or not. The women are finally going with the theory that if you got it then flaunt it with confidence. So backless cholis, or strapless blouses are seen in middle class weddings, the brides-to-be are getting their underarm and backs waxed to look picture perfect wearing these dresses.

Bollywood influence

Like everything else in India, Bollywood also influences in bridal dress choices. If a young woman is getting married then she wants to wear the same revealing dress that Alia Bhatt or Deepika Padukone wore for their movies. They also know the designers who made those outfits and can pay a lot of money to make the same bridal dresses for themselves by same famous designers. They can go any length to flaunt the blue saree Deepika wore in a song.

Saree is not the only choice

This is one other major choice, traditional saree and lehengas are not only choices for the young brides. They are wearing dresses that are more light weight and easy to carry, even something on the lines of an indo western gown or a long embroidered skirt with a halter neck top.

Jewelry

Jewelry always played a big part in Indian wedding, it was always like a symbol of property the father has, so brides used to wear all the gold ornaments they were given, no matter if that looks good or not. But now that trend is replaced by lightweight diamond necklaces and earrings, and they wear the accessories according to their outfit and no to show the father’s gift to them.

These changes were necessary for the young women today who wear Jeans and shorts skirts daily, and will probably not feel comfortable wearing heavy sarees and jewelries.

 

 

Top five Hot Pink Lip Colors for this Season

Five Hot Pink Lipsticks -Have you been eyeing all the amazing pink lip colors that swamping the market, ramp walks and shows. There are definitely a lot of choices, but some pinks just work better and are definitely more suited to a wider audience. Here are some of my favourite Pink color lipsticks:

MAC Cremesheen Speak Louder– this is a lovely hot pink from MAC’s permanent collection.  MAC describes Speak Louder as a clean poppy blue pink. It is a cool toned hot pink, wearable on all skintones. It’s a bright pink lipstick for those who are scared to sport brights.  It is from Cremesheen finish category they are some what creamy and not matt, and give a certain shine that I dislike. It is well pigmented and you would need 2 swipes for full intensity. The staying power is remarkable as it stays put for more than 3-4 hours easily, fades evenly leaving behind a stain.

MAC Impassioned Amplified – this is a very bright neon pink color from MAC, but one of my favorite lip colors and brightens your skin tone. Works well for medium to fair skin tones and perfect for both day and night out. MAC describes Impassioned as Amped Up Fuschia and the shade looks different in different lights. It is a nicely pigmented color and you might need more than one swipe for pigmented lips. This shade comes from Amplified family which means it is creamy matte but I find it more matte than other shades from this family and the lip color stays on for atleast 4-5 hours

Clinique Chubby Stick Intense Plushest Punch – The best thing about the chubby stick intense formula is their hydration and staying power! Even though its marketed as lip balm I find the color is intense enough to be worn a standalone lip color. Its a bright raspberry pink color and has a good staying power. I always wear this color in two swipes when i want a fuller coverage and one swipe when I am looking for lighter natural look

Revlon Colorburst Vivacious Exuberante  – Revlon lacquer balms have smooth balm like texture. Vivacious Exuberante is a hot pink shade comes with little shimmers and its texture is very moisturizing. The shade is well pigmented, though it can get patchy and at least 2 strokes are required to develop the original shade. It has got mint fragrance which is feature of all Revlon Colorburst balm, I find it soothing personally.

Revlon Colorburst Sultry Sulfureuse – One of my favorite lip colors which is good for office days. This is a matte lip balm which doesn’t dry out your lips much and has a good lasting power. For me the lip color stays beyond 4 hours. I like matte lip colors more than others but stay away from them as they tend dry out my lips. The color is highly pigmented and can easily hide any lip pigmentation even with one swipe and would suit almost every skin color.

Swatches Below:

Top Five Hot Pink Lip Colors

The History of Heels

As you slip on your old, faithful work heels, you probably fail to consider the shoe’s rich history. While we may wear them now to create a statement look, back then, they were very much a statement of social standing.

Heels actually date back as early as 3500BC. Murals from the period depict upper class Ancient Egyptians wearing decorative laced heels as a sign of their superiority. In 3000BC, however, heels were very much a stage costume for actors in their theatrical tragedies. They were used to visibly elevate characters to convey greater importance or social standing.

In the 1300s, heels took on a much more practical use. People in the Middle East attached wooden stilts to their feet to protect the wearer from hot or wet floors. This trend continued through the Middle Ages, giving birth to pattens and chopines, which both were intended to keep the wearer clean.

Practicality remained key in the Safavid Dynasty. Horse-riding warriors wore heeled shoes to help them grip the stirrups and stand up as they rode.

In the 1600s, heels became much more of a fashion statement. King Louis XIV of France often donned ornate, 5-inch heeled shoes. To ensure he was the leader of the fashion pack, he ruled that no one else should have heels higher than him.

By the 1900s, the heel had definitely become a fashion statement. Christian Dior and Roger Vivier created the stiletto heel as we now know it in 1955. Although thinner heels had existed before this, it was only when the two iconic designers collaborated that the trend skyrocketed.

The stiletto heel made way for more extreme designs, like platforms in the 1970s and sky-high heels that characterised the 1990s.

To find out more about the heel’s extensive history, take a look at the Jones Bootmaker infographic in full below.

Jones Bootmaker - History of Heels Inforgraphic

Designer Diaries: ‘Label: Roaleey Ryan’

Meet the designer Roaleey Ryan from ‘Label: Roaleey Ryan’. The fashion label is a designer label for would be Indian brides.

So here is how the story goes:

Roaleey-Ryan-5

1. Tell us something about your Fashion Brand.

My Mom was always into Self Designing and I grew up watching her design her clothes  and getting appreciated for her style . I always used to follow her around when she used to be in her Designing spree.  As I grew older , I used to sit with mom and learn about different kinds of Fabric, colours  and styles, basically the world of Designing.

I started taking a keen interest in the Fashion world professionally around the age of 17. And being a model I knew a lot about Fashion industry.  I started off  with designing for my friends and my  work was well appreciated and talked about. Having my mum’s support and her knowledge all the way  gave me a huge moral support and boost to start my own label “Roaleey Ryan” .

2. Which area of Indian fashion do you specialise in?

We specialise in Bridal Lenghas , Sarees and Anarkalis.

3. What is your favourite aspect of Indian fashion?

For me, a girl or a lady looks the best in Indian wear. Our Indian silhouette gets accentuated when we wear Indian clothes.  And there is so much to choose from ranging from the colours, the cuts and the styles.  The best part of Indian Fashion is that it is made for every body type and all age groups

4. As a designer what is your biggest challenge?

As a Designer, there is huge fun is designing every ensemble. But for those ensembles to see the light of day, you need the perfect team and by God’s grace we have been blessed to have found the right team, cause that is indeed the biggest challenge.

5. Where can one find your Collection?

As of now you will find us on our FB page – www.facebook.com/labelroaleeyryan  and very soon we will be opening up a store.

6. Tell us something about your latest collection.

Our latest collection is all about the ‘Pride of Bride’, with the Bridal session being in full swing.  We have something for everyone, being it the Bride, the Bride’s mother or the Brides friends

7. Do you take up custom design requests?

Yes, we take up custom designing.  We like to give our customers the satisfaction in knowing that they can have their desired preferences in their budget which is made to the perfection of a designer

Previous Image
Next Image

info heading

info content

8. What is your advice on dressing style for different body types?

The key to looking great, is to know your body.

Dress according to your body type, by enhancing your assets and covering your problem areas.

9. Fashion/Style Tip for our readers

Wear you with Confidence and Panache.

 

Jeans DIY – Five Uses for Worn-Out Pair of Jeans

Jeans

It always seems like a shame and a waste to throw away a perfect good pair of jeans away, so here are five ways you can repurpose them. Denim is totally in right now, so get new items of denim clothing and denim accessories pretty much for free when you wear through your jeans.

Bunting

If you’re not much of a seamstress, you can’t go wrong with some good old bunting. It’s now spring, so get that festival-chic look in your home with some snazzy denim bunting. The great thing about this is that you can use other old scraps of fabric as well to create a free new decorative feature for any room of the house.

Handbag

Had your eye on a new denim handbag? Now you can make your own with an old pair of jeans. The two best options here are to either make a smaller over-the-shoulder bag just by using the back pocket section, or you can make a larger tote with the whole top section of your jeans. The possibilities are, pretty much, endless. The only advice I will give is to work with the existing structure of the jeans. 

Skirt

If you love the fit and feel of your jeans, you can easily turn them into a cute skirt. Just cut off the legs and cut down the groin seam (although this is probably already gone) for the base of your skirt. Then, you can add any amount of material you like to the base of this to create a skirt in whatever length you prefer. Vintage ra-ra skirts or gypsy skirts work particularly well here, as the ruffles in the fabric hide a multitude of sins, both in the body and the sewing departments.

Top

Creating a top out of your old pair of jeans probably requires the most skill of all of these repurposing projects. Don’t be put off, though, as it’s still fairly simple. You can make a basic crop top by wrapping a section of one of the jean legs around your torso, and then using smaller strips of jean fabric to create chunky straps.

Cushion

Make a super-casual cushion cover with your old pair of jeans. In fact, you can make multiple with just one old pair. As when making a bag, remember to work with the existing structure, so you can either use sections of leg and sew on the open ends, or use the whole top section of your pair of jeans. With these funky denim cushion covers, pretty much anything goes so feel free to get creative!

Saree Styles for Festive Season 2013

Saree Trends for Festive Season 2013

The style of saree has evolved over the years. Fashion Trends  rise and end with time but saree is a timeless classic in any indian women’s wardrobe. Here are some of the latest saree styles for you to experiment with this festive season, and bring about a fresh perspective to your style.

1. Double Pallu Sarees –

A double pallu has been in existence for long, but probably not as popular and is only seen in bridal trousseaus sometime, but you can turn any single colour saree into a sensation with classic double pallu style. All you have to do is stitch another pallu in a contrast shade to the saree and voila you have converted your saree into a unique saree.

I personally love to try this style when I want to turn a lighter saree into a heavy one for more traditional occasions.

2. Pre Pleated Saree –

Pre-pleated sarees came into existence to reduce the hassle of tying all those pleats and neat pallu. The emergence of pre-pleated sarees has made draping easier and simpler for everyone. These sarees are almost as easy as doning a skirt as they come with pleats stitched at strategic places. Just tuck it at one place and you are ready in a jiffy to sizzle.

Now a days you even get a panelled or well draped stitched dupatta with the skirt which acts like a pallu hanging free from the shoulder, which for me this is like a seamless blend of the contemporary with the traditional past.

3. Half and Half Saree –

Another trend which has been there for many years is a half and half saree you either go for bright contrast this season or remodel your old saree into a true beauty by attaching a different color pallu to the saree. Or go for neon color combinations which are so much in trend this season

4. Dhoti Saree –

Showcased in the Wills Lifestyle Fashion Week Summer/Spring ’13, pop-art inspired designer Nida Mahmood brought to the ramp a lungi/dhoti-style saree with wide slits.

You can drape your saree over leggings or slim-fit denims, instead of a petticoat, and go for tees or spaghetti tops in place of a blouse. For ease of movement chose sheer and lighter fabrics like crepes, georgettes etc and for more festive look you can always go for sequin saree borders.

5. Saree Draped like Gown –

From Paris hilton to Sania Mirza many celebrities have tried their hands at this trend, as it gives one dress a gown like look, with ethnicity of saree. Easy to wear and makes your saree cross functional in both formal and traditional occasions.

Designer Diaries: ‘Bubber’ by Aanchal & Sanjana

4

Meet the designer duo Aanchal & Sanjana from ‘Bubber’. ‘Bubber’ is an Indian couture fashion label for men and women known for its customization of garments, unique colours & an antique aesthetic.

Q: Tell us something about your Fashion Brand.

A: 1990, in a Mumbai living room:  The mother of the then-four year-old Bubber twins asks them what they want to be when they grow up.

Sanjana: We want to become ‘Artist-tists’(Struggling to say artist)

Aanchal: Yes mama, Artist-tists….

Art has fascinated us from a very early age. While we started out channelling this creativity by creating paintings and craft, today we use garments as the canvas to express our artistry.

After high school, we started our training in the industry, with a rigorous 3-year Apparel Manufacturing & Design course at S.N.D.T University, Mumbai. And then, we moved on to our dream job with renowned menswear designer Arjun Khanna in Mumbai. After working with him for two years, we decided it was time to open our own studio in April 2011, and launched our label ‘Bubber’- by Aanchal and Sanjana.

 

 Q: What is the essence of your Fashion Brand?

A: Bubber’s core philosophy includes comfort, wearability, functionality and intricate detailing.

Our menswear line is slick, subtle, and affordable, catering to the stylish yet minimalistic man. We believe that ‘less is more’ & always keep re-wearability in our mind while designing. In a world where prices are sky rocketing, we believe anything you buy shouldn’t just be for one-time use.

Our women’s wear is vibrantly coloured, sophisticated and elegant, featuring an antique aesthetic blended with contemporary style. We design classic silhouettes and experiment with intricate embroidery and other forms of surface ornamentation, and ensure that each of our garments is not only detailed from the outside, but from within as well.

We believe that a unique garment is the result of a unique temperament and uncompromising dedication to quality craftsmanship.

 

Previous Image
Next Image

info heading

info content


 

Q: Which area of Indian fashion do you specialise in?

A: We design Indian wear for both men and women. For women, this includes bridal wear, anarkalis, slim fit kurtas, saris, lehengas, kurtis & tunics. Our menswear line includes bandhgalas, sherwanis, bandhis & kurtas.

Our forte lies in the customization of garments and fabulous cuts and fits.

 Q: Where can one find your Collection? (please share details of stores and online websites where customer can reach you)

A: Customers can visit our studio in South Bombay near Metro Cinema where we meet clients by appointment. This is where we showcase the crème of our collection. To book an appointment, contact us by either email or phone.

Tel: 09820709875/09819980846
E-mail: info@bubbercouture.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/bubbercouture
Twitter: www.twitter.com/bubbercouture

We also supply to Amara & Shray in Mumbai. Select garments from our clothing line can also be purchased on websites such as www.scarletbindi.com & www.indianhanger.com.

Q: Tell us something about your latest collection? 

A: Our latest collection is called “Le Danseur,” which means “The Dancer” in French and draws inspiration from the freedom and grace of a ballerina dancer. The collection consists of brightly-hued floor-length anarkallis with lots of flare. The backs of these pieces are bejewelled with delicate embroideries and embellishments.

This collection also features vibrantly coloured, antique inspired, and illusion waist slim-fit kurtas. These kurtas are cut in a way that manifests a slimming effect when worn, and are extremely popular with our clients.

We recently exhibited for the first time in Delhi at Jalsa & Ruchika Lifestyle in Mumbai.

 Q: Do you take up custom design requests? 

 A: Bespoke garments and customization is the core of our business. Customization is in high demand in India currently and allows clients to explore their ideas and let their imaginations run wild with our experience guiding in the creative process.

We have an array of colour combinations, embroidery patterns and silhouettes for clients to choose from. We recommend and design each piece as per the requirements of the client.

Q: Fashion/Style Tip for our readers

A: The right colour can complement your complexion and nothing looks better than that. Be open to new styles and silhouettes. At the same time, keep re-wearability in mind when you’re shopping or designing garments.

Invest in heavy dupattas rather than heavy outfits. Trends may change over time while a heavy dupatta will always stay with you as an heirloom.

Chubby Stick Intense Moisturizing Lip Colour Balm Plushest Punch – Review and Swatches

clinique-plushest-punch-1As promised in my last Clinique chubby stick review post I have gone ahead and bought another for myself.

Very different from my regular color selection of red, I have dared to buy a shade of pink. Love the color, bright, bold raspberry pink with a natural sheen that works well for day wear and goes well with no makeup look. You can use this lip color as tinted lip balm or as a lipstick by swiping 2 or more coats

Pros

  • Coverage fair and works like a lipstick with two quotes
  • Moisturising and keeps lips soft and supple

Cons

  • A little pricey
  • Doesn’t stay long enough (2-3 hrs. coverage)
  • Need to have good moisturised and scrubbed lips beforehand for this color to look good, as a lip tint.

clinique-plushest-punch-2

Fashion Trend Alert: Bright Lace

Colored-Lace

We have all loved lace since we were kids, makes me feel all girly and young again. When you think about lace the first thought that springs to your mind is the white colored lace we have all seen in bridal gowns in whites and soft hues.

The trend this season is taking a detour from the traditional and opting for brighter hues. Bright colors are the trend this season be it for the western or traditional attire. Added bonus is you dont need to be all skinny or perfect hourglass shaoe to carry of this trend.

The bright colored laces vs. the pale hues look good on all skin tones and body types, so go ahead and invest in that lovely dress piece this season.

Designer Diaries : An Exclusive Interview with Shubha & Siddhi from BodhiTree Jaipur.

Designer - BodhiTree 3In my search for Rich and Elegant Ethnic indian designs and traditional rajasthani work, I found BodhiTree Jaipur online. Here are some excerts from my conversation with designer duo Shubha and Siddhi from BodhiTree.

Tell us something about your Fashion Brand.
BodhiTree: The story goes back in time when we were on the lookout for traditional Indian Attire. Having belonged to a family where women have an appreciation for all things beautiful, the market failed to satisfy our craving for ethnic and beautiful Indian attire. It dawned on us to offer to the ladies something combining our aesthetic sensibility and thus began our journey to recreate old world charm with the wedding ensembles.

What is the essence of your Fashion Brand?
BodhiTree: Through our designs we try to recreate the glory and grandeur of the bygone era. The focus is on combining rich and luscious fabrics with opulent and extravagant long lost techniques of hand workmanship like danka, antique dori, zardozi etc. Our brand is an ode to women who feels beautiful, confident and exudes feminism and possesses a queen like aura.

Which area of Indian fashion do you specialize in?
BodhiTree: At our Studio, we emphasis on reviving the age old techniques of workmanship like zardozi, gotta, antique dori, danka, resham, aari, mirror work and beading, dabka and kasab work and present them in a contemporary manner that is appealing to present day fashionistas. We specialise in making glamorous wedding ensembles that become an integral component of a bridal trousseau and which can be bequeathed to posterity.

What is your favourite aspect of Indian fashion?
BodhiTree: Indian fashion has now come of age and is pushing its own boundaries. Indian hand techniques and motifs are frequently gracing the international runways. It’s a proud moment to be part of Indian fashion industry.

As a designer what is your biggest challenge?
BodhiTree: We as a brand have taken upon us to contribute nothing but the best in terms of creativity, designs, following stringent quality standards and sourcing the best materials available. We desire to impart those skills to our workers that would help them incorporate old techniques in their workmanship. This would enable us to segregate our work from run of the mill workmanship and inferior copies, which has infiltrated the market and thus achieving ultimate satisfaction for the Bodhitree patrons.

Where can one find your Collection?
BodhiTree: Customers can visit our store in Jaipur (on prior appointment basis).

Store Address : Bodhitree
D43a bhagat singh marg
C Scheme, Jaipur
Contact no -9928351153 and 9672900007

On request of our online customers we are announcing the launch of our facebook store very soon, wherein customers in India and abroad would be able to see and buy from our latest Pret line (casual, semi-formal and formal sarees, suits, lehengas and tunics).

Our couture collection will be showcased in Delhi from 6th to 8th Sept at Hotel Ashoka and for the first time ever in Pune from 4th-6th October at Hotel Le Meridian. To get the latest updates of our shows and new collection you can visit our Bodhitree Jaipur Page.

Tell us something about your latest collection?
BodhiTree: Our latest collection is an ode to the insatiable desire of a woman to look the most beautiful in every moment of her life. It’s a celebration of extravagant and grandeur life in itself. It is akin to royalty being seen from the eyes of an aesthete traveller “A Royal Ghumakkad” who is mesmerised and awestruck by the grandeur of it all. Keeping true to our spirit, it’s a collector’s delight exuding traditional charm.

Do you take up custom design requests?
BodhiTree: Yes we do take customised design request orders. Please contact us through our facebook page  or email us at bodhitree9@gmail.com  and we will be happy to discuss your details and customize the outfit as per your request.

What is your advice on dressing style for different body types?
BodhiTree: The most important aspect is to know your inner self and channelize the dormant diva in you so that you exude confidence outside. Women with any body type have the potential to look good it’s just that they have to know their body, cuts and colours which compliment them the most instead of blindly aping the runways. But it comes gradually thru experimentation and then it becomes natural. So be open to exploring new horizons. Ladies please be an aware buyer and invest in statement pieces which are stylish, chic and cyclic in nature so that they can be reused in many ways.

Fashion/Style Tip for our readers
BodhiTree: Wishing all the gorgeous ladies out there to stay stylish and happy dressing and celebrate the everlasting occasion called life. We would also take this opportunity to thank our patrons for showering so much love and appreciation on us. It motivates us and helps us to strive for more.

Previous Image
Next Image

info heading

info content


About BodhiTree, Jaipur
Bodhitree, Jaipur  is the brainchild of sister designer duo Shubha Gupta and Siddhi Gupta and is an ode to glory of Rajasthan’s royal and vibrant cultural heritage. It is an amalgamation of rich handpicked fabrics with opulent embroidery and embellishments oozing grandeur and opulence. Our wedding ensemble embodies the old world glamour keeping the subtle and chic aesthetic sensibilities in mind. We take pride in our selves in endeavouring the best business practices and maintaining integrity and quality and offer complete value for money. Bodhitree epitomise all things luxurious and covetable.

Lehenga Styles for Different Body Types

Lehenga-by-body-typeLehenga, the quintessential bridal wear is an integral part of Indian weddings. On the most important date of a bride’s life, it is her desire to look absolutely divine and the onus lies completely on the lehenga. Long, heavy and billowing lehengas in vibrant colors and embroidered to perfection lend a celestial form of grace and beauty to the bride. As soon as she makes her entry, everyone’s attention averts toward her and remains captivated by her exquisite elegance.

A beautifully designed lehenga that accentuates the figure and brings out the feminine grace is what every woman desires. However, it is important to know about the various types of lehenga and choose the one that would be befitting for a particular body type. Lehengas are available in different styles and cuts and can either be tailor made or even bought off the rack. Choosing a particular cut as per the body type is the most important requisite.

Mermaid Style or Fish Tail
Typically, a fish tail or mermaid style lehenga is fitted till the knee and then flares out at the bottom. This type of lehenga is apt for women with an hourglass or a straight/boyish figure. The lehenga is meant to accentuate the hips and can be teamed up with a corset or a halter-neck choli.

Straight Cut Lehenga
Straight cut lehenga is one of the most versatile options, as it compliments most body types. Resembling a wrap-around skirt, this type of lehenga is straight from the waist to the hem with slits on the side. Complimenting straight cut lehenga is a blouse or choli blouse or choli that falls below the collarbone to give an elongated look.

A-Line Lehenga
A-line cut implies that the skirt resembles the alphabet A that flares from the waist to the hem. Since the flair is kept to the minimal, therefore this type of cut is apt for women with pear shaped body. Ornate cholis or blouses with puffy sleeves can be designed to accentuate the upper part of the body.

Panel Length Lehenga
Offering the right amount of flare and creating a slimming effect is the panel length lehenga. Since this type of lehenga make a person look thin, therefore they are always quite in demand. The lehenga ideally consists of a number of panels stitched together and the panels can be of the same fabric or even a combination of fabrics. Long cholis that hide the stomach and further enhance the slimming effect go well with this type of lehenga.

Circular or flared lehenga
Circular or flared implies that the lehenga is voluminous. The skirt has plenty of pleats near the waist and therefore fabrics that are flowing and graceful are usually preferred for this type of lehenga. It ideally compliments a woman with a cone-shaped body or slimmer torso and is well matched with a choli that is classy and elegant yet very subtle.