Shradha Bhatia, Author at FashionForRoyals

Travelling In Style

I absolutely love travelling. Exploring new destinations, sampling exotic cuisines and soaking in the local street style – what’s not to love? Having said that, I cannot deny that travelling can be extremely stressful, especially when it comes to packing the right pieces in order to look fashionably fabulous throughout my vacation. Over the years, I have garnered a few handy tips that allow me to stay stylish throughout my travels. As the summertime is approaching and most of you are planning to jet off on a holiday, I hope that this post will help you travel in style.

Now, I know it can be extremely tempting to pack your entire closet into your suitcase. Not only will you be over the weight limit; you will also spend most of your time mixing and matching outfits rather than enjoying your break. The best way to beat the stress of planning outfits is to pick a theme for your vacation wardrobe and only select pieces that fall under it. My go-to palette for travelling is white, blue and black, so I only pack garments in these colours. This usually ensures that almost everything you take with you will match with everything else, so you do not really have to worry about pairing outfits every morning. Just throw it on!

I also like to carry one or two fancy dresses for unexpected dinner dates and formal affairs. When it comes to shoes, I only need two pairs – one for daily wear and a pair of statement heels. I might carry add a pair of flip-flops if I am heading to a beach destination but that is really all you need. Of course, your daily wear shoes should be simple and neutral enough to match any outfit. Right now, I am using a pair of comfortable chain strap sandals in a beautiful shade of beige.

Finally, I like to pack a few pieces of statement jewellery to add some extra pizzazz to my outfits. You will usually find me travelling with two or three eye-catching necklaces and a couple of cocktail rings. Jewellery is the finishing touch to your outfit so ensure that you carry at least one piece for the day and one for the night. I prefer metallic tones rather than coloured pieces because metal is more versatile. Of course, if you are holidaying for more than a week, you might need to carry an extra piece – that is totally up to you.

Can I let you in on a secret? I absolutely hate ironing, more so when I am on holiday. However, I also know that creased clothes are a major faux pas. That is why I prefer to roll my clothes instead of folding them. Along with helping me save a lot of space in my suitcase; it also ensures that my clothes are relatively crease-free when I take them out of the bag. Ladies, trust me when I tell you that you should never pack messily – you will regret it later.

Finally, I totally recommend that every woman should travel with a cute scarf or a vibrant sarong. It might sound like an item of no consequence, but this strip of cloth can play many roles on your vacation – a chic head-wrap, an emergency towel, a makeshift pillow and even a halter neck top if you drape it correctly. I simply cannot do without one!

Fashion Lessons From Five Eternal Style Icons

One cannot think of fashion without certain people coming to mind. In the midst of the fast fashion and flash trends that are bountiful in the world of style today, there are certain titbits of advice by these immortalised style icons that transcend time, generations and the fleeting nature of fashion as we know it today. These five snippets of advice from five infamous style icons will stick with you through everything!

Audrey Hepburn

The leading lady of Breakfast At Tiffany’s definitely knew a thing or two about fashion outside of cinema. In fact, her signature style was rather boyish, proving that menswear can be really sexy when carried off the right way. If there is one tip that you should take from Audrey, it should be that you can never go wrong with a crisp collared shirt, a pair of perfectly tailored trousers and loafers.

Edie Sedgwick

Whilst the life of young Edie ended rather tragically, this damsel was the ultimate style icon in her heyday. Her bold winged eyeliner was a hot favourite during the 1960’s; however, it was her eternal love for stripes that stood out the most. Edie loved everything with black and white stripes and a boat neck was the icing on the cake. Today, I firmly believe that a striped, off-shoulder top can save the day.

Coco Chanel

The mind and talent behind one of the world’s leading luxury fashion brands was a style guru in her own right. Coco Chanel was loved for tossing out the status quo, for her bold statements and for her undeniable strength of character. When it came to fashion, Coco was known for clean cuts, comfort and a minimalistic aesthetic. In fact, she once famously remarked said, “I get rid of every¬thing I can, every thing that is not useful. Until I reach simplicity…” The lesson here is easy: less is more.

Grace Kelly

Have you ever wondered who inspired the classic Kelly bag by Hermès? Well, wonder no more, ladies! Grace Kelly was a talented actress who was always at her stylish best, both on and off the silver screen. The greatest lesson that she left behind was the importance of carrying a fabulous handbag with you at all times. It mind sound intuitive, but I reckon that you should take stock of your handbag collection from time to time and ensure that every piece you own is perfect.

Jackie Kennedy

For someone with a political association, Jackie Kennedy had an unbelievably strong sartorial sense. Heavily influenced by European fashion of the era, Jackie always looked picture perfect and poised. Though she furthered the conversation of style in many ways, she will always be remembered for her infamous sunglasses which quickly came to be known as the “Jackie O Glasses.” Her love for shades was so strong that she was rarely seen without them. Ladies, take a cue from this first lady and remember that a good pair of sunglasses is simply non-negotiable!

30 Things To Do Before The End Of Summer

Ladies, summer is finally upon us! As most of you know, I am a total summer baby and I love to make the most of the warmer months with “seize the day” as my mantra for the season. Whether you are looking forward to tanning on the beach or just spending some quality time with family and friends, here are thirty things that you simply must do before summer bids us adieu!

01. Throw on your sneakers, gather your favourite girlfriends and head over the closest theme park for some wild, wild fun. No summer is complete without a roller coaster ride!

02. Buy yourself a pair of fantastic sunglasses to shade your eyes from the heat. I have been living in my white-rimmed Ray-Ban glasses all summer long. What’s your style?

03. The best part about the summer is that the nights are absolutely pleasant so why not indulge in some stargazing with your loved on? It makes for a perfect date night, too!

04. Have a pool party, complete with margaritas and flower garlands!

05. Every season needs a scent and summer is no exception. This summer, snap up a delicious scent and make it your signature. Love by Chloe is my perfume of choice, if you must know.

06. Have a picnic at your local park, complete with a bottle of wine, a scrumptious selection of cheese and some fruit. How lovely!

07. On lazy mornings, lie in your bed with the windows open and bask in the glorious sunlight.

08. Buy yourself a new bikini – because you deserve it and because it isn’t summer without some stylish swimwear!

09. Go for bike rides and explore your city like you never have before. In fact, take your camera along and have a blast pretending to be a tourist in your own neighbourhood.

10. Eat lots of berries! Not only do they taste absolutely amazing in the summertime; they are absolutely loaded with antioxidants, which work wonders for your skin.

11. Treat yourself to a manicure and pedicure with a wonderfully bright nail paint to boot.

12. Make a summer playlist and listen to it as much as you can. “This ain’t nothing but a summer jam…”

13. Roadtrip! Enough said.

14. Try your hand at juicing and experiment with crazy recipes until you find your favourite. You do not even need a fancy juicer – a simple blender works just fine!

15. Look through the photographs from the last summer and reminisce.

16. Buy yourself some bronzer, because every girl needs a beautiful summer glow!

17. Make some time for meditation. Trust me ladies; this habit will change your life! There is no need to join classes – just play some soothing music and breathe deeply.

18. Learn more about the flowers that bloom in your locale during the summertime and see how many you can spot whilst you are out and about.

19. Head over to the beach and have a sandcastle-making competition with your friends or better yet, with strangers!

20. Buy a Polaroid camera and take it everywhere you go. At the end of the summer, create a collage of photographs on your wall.

21. Wear a flower crown wherever you go.

22. Make new friends. Many of us rarely go out with the intention to meet new people but this summer, you must change that! Go out with the intention to meet someone new and do not come home until you do so.

23. Experiment with one DIY project. This could be something as small as making your own lip balm with Vaseline and eye shadow, or something as large as sewing your own sundress. Let the creative juices flow, girls!

24. Allow your inner child to break free and have a water gun fight with your friends.

25. Watch the sunrise.

26. Watch the sunset.

27. Create a scrapbook with all of the mementos and photographs of the summer. Stick everything from ticket stubs to flyers to those embarrassing selfies that you would never show anyone.

28. Stuff your face with an ice cream sundae. Yummy!

29. Buy yourself a cute clutch bag to carry during the day. I firmly believe that if you only use clutches at night, you are doing it wrong. For the daytime, pick one in a bright colour like aqua or a fun animal print for some extra pizazz!

30. Live, laugh and love, every single day.

5 Tips for Buying Your Bridal Outfit

Calling all brides-to-be! First things first: congratulations on getting hitched!

Every woman deserves to have a fairytale wedding. Obviously, she needs a bridal outfit that makes her feel like a princess, too. I know that planning your special day can be nerve-wrecking, but your search for the sari or lehenga of your dreams does not have to be.

Start Early

For a bride, almost nothing is more important than what she wears on her big day so why not save yourself the stress by starting your search early? That way, you can explore all the possible options at your own pace and will not make a hasty decision under pressure. You will also need to remember that high-end designers require at least a month to make your outfit, plus time for the fittings to ensure that it is just right. Pro-tip: make an appointment to ensure that you get the best value out of the time that you spend at the store!

Work With a Budget in Mind

Ladies, trust me when I say that shopping without a price cap is futile. Be realistic about how much would like to spend on your ensemble for the big day and decide upon a number before you hit the stores. Do not forget to account for your jewellery, shoes, handbag and other accessories. Save yourself the heartache and headache by only trying on outfits which work for your budget. This will make your life infinitely easier.

Buy Your Jewellery In Tandem

Nothing is worse than finding a stunning wedding lehenga, only to realise that the baubles you had planned to wear on your big day really do not match the outfit. That is why I recommend that you shop for your jewellery simultaneously and ideally try it on with your outfit before purchasing the latter. As a rule of thumb, try to purchase most of your jewellery as a set to ensure consistency. Desi girls will know that bridal jewellery can make or break the look so no compromises here, please!

Know What You Want

Before you hit the ground running, have a rough idea of the style that you might like to rock on your big day. Pinterest is a great place to look for inspiration as are blogs dedicated to real-life weddings. Figure out what kind of silhouette and embroidery you would like to work with, taking into account your body shape and your personal sense of style. This will lend some direction to your hunt. Having said that, if you come across a unique ensemble which you had initially not considered earlier, feel free to experiment! You deserve the best and nothing less.

Does it fit you today?

Señoritas, never make the mistake of buying a wedding outfit in the hopes that you will be able to fit into it by your wedding day. That is a huge no-no! Even if you are crash dieting and working out every day to tone up before your wedding, buy the one that fits you right now. When you shed those kilos, you can always have your attire altered to fit, but you cannot do much with a lehenga that is too small.

Five Fashionable Investments Every Girl Should Make

Here’s the thing about fashion: it is downright addictive. Every season brings with it a host of new trends, patterns, colours, silhouettes and embellishments to try and those of us with a penchant for style often find it very hard to resist. Fast fashion is wonderful and glorious, but I firmly believe that there are certain classics that will take you through several seasons and years. These are the pieces that will never go out of style and the ones that are definitely worth investing a few extra bucks in.

Ladies, the five pieces that follow are those that every girl should invest in. Start saving, today!

The Little Black Dress

Most fashion related publications would tell you that the classic LBD is a wardrobe essential. What they often do not tell you is that this basic garment is worth investing some extra moolah in. An LBD in a good quality fabric and the right fit will last you for years and save you from several “OMG-I-have-nothing-to-wear!” situations. Need I say more?

The Tailored Blazer

No wardrobe is complete without a well-tailored blazer. Again, when it comes to this piece, fit is everything. That is why I recommend splashing out some extra money and investing in blazer that fits you really, really well. Not only does it play a role in chic office wear; it is also a great piece to add some extra pizzazz to any ordinary outfit. As far as possible, try to find a blazer that comes in a wrinkle-free material.

The Classic White Shirt

If I had a choice, I would wear a crisp white shirt and boyfriend jeans every day of the year. You simply cannot go wrong with a classic white shirt – it can be worn pretty much everywhere and anywhere! Avoid synthetic fabrics and instead, opt for a shirt in crisp cotton. This piece is going to be the workhorse of your wardrobe, so make sure that it fits you perfectly. I highly recommend getting a shirt tailored to your size if you can.

The Good Old Blue Jeans

No matter the style, medium blue jeans are always a good bet and I definitely recommend investing time and money in a pair that fits you really well. The perfect pair of jeans should be tight without being overtly so, and should enhance your booty rather than flatten it. Bootleg, boyfriend, skinny or anything else, a trusty pair of blue jeans can last you a lifetime so make sure you choose the right one!

The Leather Jacket

I am a sucker for all things leather, but the edgy leather jacket holds a truly special place in my heart. Most high street stores are filled with faux leather pieces around autumn and winter. Don’t get me wrong – these options are super chic too – but at some point, every girl should invest in a real leather jacket, ideally, in a bold black colour. Leather jackets will never go out of vogue. The cherry on top is that the longer they are worn, the better they look. Snap one up for yourself, pronto!

How To Style Brogues Like A Beauty

There is just something about androgynous fashion that screams sophistication and style. In a world where traditional gender roles and responsibilities are blurring, why should fashion stay behind? The classic brogue shoe, also known as the Oxford shoe, has come back with a bang (although most people do not know that Oxfords are actually one out of four closure styles for brogue shoes). I love this style of shoe as a great alternative to ankle boots, ballet flats and other casual closed-toe shoes. The best part is that there are such a wide variety of styles available – sequins, glitter, patent leather and more – that every girl is bound to find one that makes her inner fashionista sing with joy.

Over the years, I have learned a really handy trick about androgynous fashion: it always helps to balance out the masculinity of menswear-inspired pieces with feminine ones. Plus, the infusion of “girliness” will make your outfit look less fuddy-duddy and more fabulous.

In line with this style of thinking, pair your brogues with floral skater dresses, pleated skirts, patterned crop tops, coloured denim and flirty mini skirts for fun summer outfits. This combination works especially well if you are wearing traditional brogues in earthy colours like tan and black. If the weather is on the cooler side, you can always pull on a pair of sheer black stockings or thigh-high socks. Accessorize with a statement necklace and a fun clutch to complete the look.

Of course, brogues look equally good with trousers, pants and jeans, too. One of my favourite ways to style brogues is to pair them with ankle length jeans. Given the cut of the shoe and the cuff of the jeans, this style shows off your ankles in a cheeky way. Throw on a crisp white shirt and you have fashioned yourself the perfect ensemble for a casual spring day! When the fall comes around, you can take this outfit up a notch by layering a chunky sweater over your shirt for a vintage vibe inspired by menswear, that brings out the beauty of brogues wonderfully. If you want to dress things up, switch the sweater for a sharp blazer instead. Brogues are a really great way to jazz up an ordinary t-shirt and jeans combination, too. Add a statement necklace to the mix and you are good to go!

Finally, do not be afraid to experiment with new styles of brogues that make a statement. Whilst the traditional leather shoes are timeless, you can have a lot of fun with brogues in vibrant colours, quirky prints and offbeat fabrics. If you are on the short side, you can even add some height to your look with a pair of heeled brogues – these are absolutely adorable and so chic. Happy styling, ladies!

The Lakme Fashion Week Diaries #Day 4, March 20, 2015

So, we are half way through the iconic Lakme Fashion Week and the third day has been nothing less than amazing, filled with futuristic trends, amazing street style and lots of celebrity spotting.

One of my favourite parts of fashion week is the quirky street style on display, and day three did not disappoint. All of our favourite Indian fashion bloggers were at their stylish best, as expected. I spied a lot of fresh hues like white and mint green, combined with chunky silver jewellery and an occasional red lip – it truly felt like the celebration of summer! It must be mentioned that these lovely ladies had their hair game on point, as they were treated to some super cool hairstyling by TIGI India at the Bed Head event in the Lakme Fashion Week apartment. So jealous!

One of the biggest highlights of the day was the showcasing of Gauri Khan’s collection for Satya Paul. Seriously, is there anything that this woman cannot do?! Aptly named ‘A Tropical Wonder’, the collection featured beautiful prints inspired by palm trees, flowing typography, ombre hues that reminded me of paradise and flowing silhouettes that made me want to take a beach vacation right now. The delicious citrus palette is absolutely perfect for the season, too. Bahamas, here I come!

Another label that hit the sweet spot was Arunima Majhi and Surbhi Shekhar. To my mind, this feminine collection embodies everything that we love about the summertime, and then takes it up a few notches. To be honest, I was sold at the artful use of pastel shades like lavendar purple, sea green, baby blue and subtle cream – a palette that screams summer like nothing else. What really stole my heart away, however, was a stunning dress that transitioned from white to dark blue and featured sheer panelling on the chest. Love, love, LOVE!

When it came to prints, Babita M definitely stole the show. With tribal prints, natural motifs and feather earrings, the collection was a markedly modern take on nature. Several elements came together to make this show a highlight of the day – the eyecatching prints, the classy rendition of tie-dye, the sheer details, the juxtaposition of black with light blue and the bold accessories. Of course, Soha Ali Khan as the showstopper was the icing on the cake and her entire ensemble was downright fierce, from the maang tikka to the beautiful printed skirt and sexy crop top.

In a nutshell, the three major trends that emerged for the summer were pastel colours, gauzy silhouettes and nature-inspired fashion. Ladies, are you feeling as excited about these trends as I am?

The Lakme Fashion Week Diaries #Day 2, March 18, 2015

Held in the majestic Palladium Hotel in the heart of Mumbai, India, the second day of Lakme Fashion Week was an absolute riot (in the best way possible). We were given a plethora of bold colours, many unique textures and enough sartorial inspiration to last us a lifetime.

Manish Malhotra

One of the biggest highlights of the day was the Manish Malhotra collection for The Blue Fashion Runway presented by WEvolve. As the name suggests, this collection was centred on regal hues of blue and further accented with bold ivory tones. This colour palette, combined with sophisticated floral motifs, resulted in a collection that was absolutely mind-blowing. Better yet, The Blue Fashion Runway represented a large step into fashion for a cause. The collection and show were crafted to send a strong message about gender inequality and violence to the audience. What better way to empower women than by making them look like nothing less than royalty?

Krishna Mehta

Another defining moment was the Krishna Mehta collection, which featured rich and colourful garments inspiring by Indian handlooms and traditional fabrics. Bright colours and local fabrics are absolutely perfect for the summer, so this collection was a big winner in my eyes. My favourite garments were the white ankle length jackets that would look absolutely stunning over vibrant maxi dresses. Another favourite was the Indian take on the peplum trend by pairing it with sari-style drapes; I can definitely see this trend coming to life on the streets.

Yogesh Chaudhary

Now, Yogesh Chaudhary has been the talk of the town for a while, frequently referred to as a “designer to watch out for.” His claim to fame has been his contemporary take on traditional Indian wear and he proved his talent yet again with an awe-inspiring collection that is absolutely perfect for the modern Indian woman. This collection combined the clever use of Indian motifs with different textures, unexpected colours and out-of-the-box silhouettes to create traditional wear that truly makes a statement. I fell head-over-heels in love with a stunning white and gold sari that screamed chic like nothing else. I also loved the black and white wrap tops paired with trousers in an identical print. I could totally imagine wearing that ensemble to work! Another favourite was the sea green sari paired with a white blouse featuring delicate embroidery – beautiful does not even begin to describe it! Plus, the pastel colour is absolutely perfect for the summer season.

It must be said that this year, the GenNext designers pushed the limits of creativity and created the kind of fashion that is bold, breathtaking and beautiful. Notable sightings included a male model in a skirt at Manish Bansal and an entire Zen-inspired range at Priyanka Lama.

What was your favourite collection, fashionistas?

The Low-Down On The Overall Fashion Trend

Overalls (dungarees, bib-and-brace etc.) instantly transport me to my childhood in the ‘90s. I remember having a particular pair made from the softest denim that I literally wore until they were threadbare and then some more. To my surprise (and elation), this quirky trend has made a major comeback in the last year and it looks like it is here to stay. Of course, the way I would style my overalls today is drastically different from how I would have rocked them as a kid.

At first glance, it may be difficult to navigate the line between looking like a fashionista and looking like a farmer, but once you get the hang of it, overalls will become your go-to garment!

For starters, it is absolutely critical that you focus on the fit of the overalls. When it comes to long overalls, opt for a pair that offers a sleek and skinny fit so that you do not drown in the denim. If short overalls are your game, ensure that they are not so tight that they restrict your movement. I firmly believe that fashion can and should be comfortable.

Once you have got the right pair of overalls in place, you can start experimenting with various ways to style your look, depending on the occasion and the kind of outfit that you are aiming for. The beauty of overalls lies in the fact that they can be dressed up or down to suit any occasion. For a casual daytime look, slip into a fitted graphic t-shirt and leave one of your overall straps undone for a laidback yet ultra chic vibe. You can pair this combination with a trusty pair of Converse (I have been digging the white high tops lately) or chic printed loafers.

If you are trying to achieve a look that is put-together and sophisticated, I would strongly suggest that you skip the blue denim altogether and opt for a classier version in hues like black, charcoal grey and navy. Fabrics like corduroy, tweed and suede work really well. Pair these babies with a classic white shirt and pumps for a chic work look, or a cheeky crop top and platform heels for a night on the town.

I am a huge fan of layering items on top of the overalls as well. For a casual work look, throw on a boyfriend blazer over your blouse and overalls. If you are styling your pair for brunch with your girlfriends, why not layer an off-shoulder top over your overalls instead of under them?

Above all, remember that this is a trend that you can have a lot of fun with. Experiment with different colours, materials, prints, cuts, lengths and ways of styling until you find something that works for you. Push the boundaries of creativity, ladies. When it comes to fashion, there is no right or wrong…unless you are wearing Crocs.

5 Essential Jewellery Pieces For The Indian Bride

Everyone loves a big fat Indian wedding. With the amazing food, profound rituals, spirited music and wild dancing, how could they not? When I think of beautiful desi unions and my own dream wedding which is still a few years away, the first thing that jumps to my mind is jewellery. Could there be anything more important to a bride than the adornm

Without a doubt, these five jewellery pieces are absolutely essential for Indian brides. These embellishments will be the centre of attention so take out the time to ensure that each piece is the very best that it can be.

The Maang Tikka

Having disappeared from the matrimonial scene for a few years, the stunning maang tikka has made a major comeback and how. As a rule of thumb, ladies with broad foreheads can opt for a heavy maang tikka whilst those with narrow foreheads should stick to a simple, single-stranded piece. It is always a good idea to buy your maang tikka as part of your bridal jewellery set to ensure that the style is consistent with the rest of your baubles. If you are feeling bold, the classic matha patti is equally dazzling.

The Bangles

What is a wedding ensemble without arms full of choodiyan? No matter where you hail from, bangles are an indispensible part of every bride’s look. Traditionally worn in shades of green, red and white, the modern day bride prefers to match her bangles to the rest of her outfit. Today, bangles come in all sorts of designs and materials so there is bound to be something for every kind of bride.

The Necklace

You will be hard-pressed to find a bride with a bare neck. The necklace, or haar as it is called in India, is one of the most important accessories for ladies who are about to get hitched. In fact, many brides wear multiple necklaces on their big day, layering different lengths and styles for a beautiful effect. My favourite style of bridal necklace is the bold kundan collar that, to my mind, exudes timeless sophistication like nothing else.

The Nose Ring

The traditional bridal nose ring, also known as the nath, has come back with a bang. I love the large, dramatic pieces with a long chain that is attached to the brides hair, but simple nose rings can look equally stunning, especially if the rest of your jewellery is rather heavy. If you do not have your nose pierced but really want to wear a nose ring on your big day, please do not run out and get your sniffer pierced. Look around with a careful eye and you will find a wide range of clip-on options that are classy and comfortable. What more does a girl need?

The Kamarbandh

An ethnic waistband is a great way for brides to add some extra glamour to their look, especially when they are sporting a sari for their nuptials. Depending on the look that you are trying to achieve, the kamarbandh can vary from a simple gold chain to a heavy gem-encrusted belt. These are usually not sold as part of bridal jewellery sets so it is important to ensure that this piece goes well with the rest of your baubles. In fact, it might be a good idea to take your necklace along when you go shopping for a kamarbandh.

Here’s wishing you a lifetime of happily wedded bliss!

Fives Ways To Rock The Statement Necklace Trend

Statement necklaces are my favourite form of adornment. I love them for the instant glamour that they add to a drab outfit and for their easy-breezy versatility. Lucky for me, the statement necklace trend has been superhot for the last year and I do not see it slowing down anytime soon. The best part about these baubles is that they come in all colours, shapes and sizes, so there is bound to be something for everyone. Of course, many women are intimidated by these neckpieces due to their ‘statement’ factor. I often hear questions like “How should I wear this?” and “Is this OTT?”

So here I present you with five easy ways to style your statement necklace.

With A Buttoned-Up Shirt

Bold neckpieces work really well with a stiff shirt. The bauble adds a touch of glamorous femininity to what would otherwise be a rather bland outfit. I prefer to button the shirt up till the top so that the necklace sits neatly below the collar, offering a classy peek-a-boo. This look is ideal for adding some pizzazz to ordinary office attire without breaking the dress code.

With A Slouchy T-shirt

I am a huge fan of laidback outfits that involve graphic t-shirts, skinny jeans and comfortable shoes. Now, add a sparkly necklace to this ensemble and you have fashioned yourself a deadly outfit. Bold baubles are a great way to dress up casual looks. If you are leaning towards an edgy feel, considering layering metal necklaces of varied lengths a la Dylanlex.

With A Dull Colour

The good news is that statement necklaces are now available in a wide range of colours. This is an ideal inlet for ladies who are always drawn to darker shades like black, grey and navy blue (guilty as charged!) A vivid neon necklace paired with a dull grey blouse is an awesome way to infuse your look with a fun burst of colour. The brighter, the better!

With A Little Black Dress

Nothing screams sexy like the perfect LBD that clings to your curves and makes you feel like a million bucks. Of course, this classic closet staple needs something to spice it up. Hello, statement necklace! When you are heading out on the town, add a vibrant neckpiece to your black dress for a fun pop of colour. Finish the look with a feisty red lip.

With A Coordinated Colour

Bold jewellery pieces are not always about contrast. One of my favourite ways to rock this trend, and possibly the most unexpected one, is to match the colour in my necklace to another element in my outfit like my shoes or skirt. Not only does this bring the entire look together; it also adds an element of sophistication. If you cannot make an exact match, stick to pairings that are within the same palette of shades.

Clearly, statement necklaces work wonders in spicing up boring outfits, livening up dull colours and adding some oomph to a casual get-up. So, which of these looks are you eager to try, ladies?

Fashion Trends That India Has Gifted To The World

India has given the world bountiful reasons for happiness: Bollywood, butter chicken and Bhangra are the first few that come to my mind. Film and food aside, the striking subcontinent has made a lasting mark on the global fashion scene. Let us explore the iconic gifts of style that India has given to the world with love.

The Jodhpur Trouser

With humble origins in the traditional Indian churidar pant, the Jodhpur trouser is now a fashion statement in its own right and the key reason behind the birth of the ‘Equestrian Chic’ trend. Indeed, an Indian polo player popularized these pants in Europe. They quickly became a must-have in every horseman and horsewoman’s wardrobe. Today, they are making waves across international runways and leading fashion magazines. I fell head-over-heels in love with Dolce and Gabbana’s silky rendition a few years ago.

The Maang Tikka

Once reserved only for the big fat Indian wedding, this sultry head accessory has absolutely skyrocketed in popularity, both in its home country and across the globe. In fact, Karl Lagerfeld was so inspired by this accessory that all of the models in the Chanel Pre-Fall 2012 show, aptly called ‘Paris-Bombay’, sported regal maang tikkas. And we all know that Karl can do no wrong, right?

The Bindi

The spread of the bindi trend to the furthest corners of the world has not been without its fair share of controversy. Opponents of the trend believe that those who sport it are actually disrespecting the Indian culture where the bindi is worn by married woman to signify their commitment to their husbands. Right or wrong, this trend is here to stay as an important part of the bohemian music festival style. I’d love to know what your take is on this craze – fashion trend or blasphemy?

The Henna Tattoo

Another ethnic bridal trend that has made it to the frontlines is the art of applying henna tattoos to hands in intricate designs. Popular with the artsy lot and bohemian babes, the henna tattoo trend has been spotted on many celebrities who are trying to make a bold fashion statement. It has also inspired an entirely new trend altogether – the temporary metallic tattoos that became all the rage at the end of last year. I’ve noticed that Vanessa Hudgens, a personal style icon, has been experimenting with henna designs for a while now. I have to say that I am pretty impressed with her handiwork!

The Sari

To my mind, the sari is one of the sexiest outfits in existence today. A long kept secret in The Golden Bird (i.e. India), the sari has now made its way across the borders and into the hearts of fashionistas across the world. No matter how you drape it, these six yards of cloth scream elegance like nothing else. Is it any surprise that the likes of Madonna, a true-blue fashion queen, and Elizabeth Hurley, a sophisticated siren, have worn it? I hope to see more women rocking this sultry outfit on the red carpet in 2015.

Contributed by Shradha Bhatia