Outfit Post – Oversized Blouse with Crop Trousers with Key Jewellery Pieces

I have always had a soft spot for eclectic and sophisticated jewellery. I fiercely believe that your baubles can make or break your outfit, and that the right type of jewellery has the power to elevate a good outfit to ‘#goals’ status.

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Recently, I was trying to put a carefree yet on-trend look together – something that was perfect for easy weekends, but also scored high in terms of style. I started by working with a pair of black cropped trousers. This silhouette has been all over the runway and streets for the last few months, and I really wanted to experiment with it.

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I’ve realised that when it comes to sporting cropped trousers like a superstar, a good pair of heels can do wonders for the look. I chose to pair my trousers with peep-toe, block heel boots – the ultimate statement footwear. Finally, I threw on an oversized blouse.

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to ramp up the cool but casual vibes and balance out the proportions of my look. I am head-over-heels in love with the beautiful powder blue shade of this top. Aren’t you?

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Once I had my ensemble in place, I started to think about the finishing touches –namely, jewellery. I brought out a gorgeous turquoise bracelet and matching pendant. The blue stones from the jewellery accentuated the blue of my blouse, and brought the look together perfectly. However; I don’t like to go over-the-top with matching. Over the years, I have learned that you don’t have to coordinate every single detail of your dress and accessories to perfection. In fact, you probably shouldn’t, because too much matching can easily become overkill. I much prefer to break the monotony and experiment with bold pieces that make a strong style statement in their own right.

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So, that’s exactly what I did! I finished off the look with a pair of statement earrings that ended up becoming the highlight of my outfit. It just goes to show that a little bit of bijou can go a long way!

In the outfit above I have used the jewellery collection from Lily & Rose.

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Earrings – Sofia Crystal
Necklace – Miss Miranda Denim Blue
Bracelet – Miranda Denim Blue

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About Lily & Rose

The Name of the brand comes from the TV series Sex and the City, about the lives of four fashionable women living in New York City. One of the main characters is wealty Charlotte York Goldenblatt, who names her tow daughters Lily and Rose., and the brand “Lily and Rose is a tribute to the best TV series ever made”

Handbags Styling Tips and Outfit Look with my New Tote

Handbags play a dual role in our life, we have them for practicality and for style as well and My love for hand bags knows no bounds. Well who doesnt love handbands, if given a choice I will try and get one bag in every shape and form.  You can read all about the latest trends in handbags here from my last post.

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By Practical I mean – we buy handbags that can hold everything, are versatile (who wants a bag which can be worn with only one outfit)

By Style I mean – a bag which along with being practical has a personality and can add a bit of oomph or style to the outfit

Hence a handbag is a mix of style and practicality to all of us, an accessory which has a bit of function along with adding that extra punch to the outfit. A handbag is not an impulse item, if you decide to splurge on a bag make sure you take care of your bag properly by storing it right.

This season I have added a new handbag to my collection, a new style which i didn’t have in my wardrobe before. Something that represents my current style and state of being.

So here is the big reveal – the new addition to my wardrobe is the YNOT London Kiss Tote. No brownie points for guessing why I chose the London theme bag.

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But if you didn’t, well it’s because I love the London and the bag which represents one of my favourite cities in the world. This is a kind of bag that you can style with any outfit to instantly add oomph to your outfit. Tote bags is always a great style for both work and casual days. You can use it for shopping and stuffing small items in your bag and also to add grace and polished look to your outfit.

Here, I have paired this with a grey boyfriend blazer and stripe tshirt and blue ankle length jeans.

Weekend is meant to be a relaxed time of the week and when you are doing different things like meeting friends, shopping etc. and a stripe top can be versatile and be paired with lot of things to create new looks.

To add oomph to the outfit when going out with friends I instantly added a platform heels and a statement bag and voila it was a look to kill for but very effortless, in nutshell such looks makes you look great without looking like you tried too hard for it.

1-YNOT-London-Bag-4I even pushed my hairs into a ponytail to make sure they looked sleek.

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Also, here are some of the tips on how to style a handbag –

  1. Make sure you buy a bag which you can carry from day to night and pair up with multiple outfits
  2. Get bags in different shades, if you have lots of black and grey bags they will look the same so make sure you have prints and coloured bags in your wardrobe too, to add versatility to your outfits
  3. Bags with defined shapes look better than the slouchy ones any day
  4. Invest more in a bag that you will carry all day and the occasion wear bags can be where you can save some bucks by buying bags from high street brands

Remember to be different and daring and not be afraid to experiment

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About YNot?

YNOT? is a brand of bags and suitcases that combines traditional materials in original prints. The products “Ynot?” are the result of a long family tradition, begun in Milan in the 50s.
It is not just a fashion brand, but an invitation to freedom of expression: the products become, in this way, a media to communicate their own identity and emotions. The different collections are inspired by these values.

Top 5 Reasons You Need a Personal Stylist

If you believe that personal stylists are only for the rich and famous, and the red carpet, think again. Personal stylists can do a world of good for any woman who wants to present a confidently stylish image to the world.

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Maximize Your Wardrobe

Most of us spend eighty per cent of our time wearing only twenty per cent of our wardrobe – what an utter waste of money! Personal stylists can work wonders in creating fresh combinations from the clothes that you already own– consider it a revamp without the hole in the wallet. They will also put your accessories to work, to ensure that you get the most value and wear out of everything that you own.

Always Have Something To Wear

This might be a familiar feeling: staring at your massive wardrobe before a big event and feeling like you have nothing to wear. Oh darling, but you do! One of the biggest perks of having a personal stylist is that you will always feel fashionably inspired and have something to wear, no matter what the occasion. You can kiss those style ruts goodbye.

Stay On-Trend; Stay You

Personal stylists are usually one of the first people in the business to catch wind of upcoming trends, and they always know the best places to trendy pieces, too! But the good news doesn’t stop here. Stylists also have a keen understanding of what trends will suit you and how to style them for your unique body shape and fashion aesthetic, so you will never end up looking like a victim of trends.

Spending and Saving

Certain, timeless pieces are worth investing in, while other trendy, short-lived pieces are not. Personal stylists have a great knack for understanding the gaps in your wardrobe, and advising you on how to spend your money in order to fill them while getting bang for your buck! Additionally, they have great connections with most retail stores, and are usually the first to know about sales and discounts. Hallelujah!

Key To Confidence

Contrary to what many might believe, fashion is as much about your ‘inner’ self as it is about your ‘outer’ self. The truth of the matter is that when you know that you look good, you also tend to feel good! Dressing well can act as a major confidence booster, even when you are having a bad day. Having your own stylist empowers you with the knowledge that you will always look good – hello, self-assurance!

If you are interested in personal styling services, you can contact me at Fashionforroyals@gmail.com or visit my website www.stylemeee.com

Valentines Day Outfit Ideas

I hope you all are as excited about Valentine’s Day as I am. I know that a lot of people find it cheesy and slightly silly, but I think it’s founded on a beautiful notion; the celebration of love. So, each year, I make sure to plan ahead and enjoy the day in style. When I say “in style”, I basically mean that the OOTD is carefully put together (sometimes post an unplanned shopping spree) and is an important part of my V-Day prep. If you’ve still not decided what to do and/or wear on the 14th of Feb this year, here are my recommendations on what you can do.

Casually Chic for a Day Outing

Valentines Day Casual Style

If you’re not going the typical route with fancy lunches or dinner but a simple day outing instead, wearing some casual classics would be great. Team a pair of well-fitted jeans with a white shirt and maybe even a cap or hat. Don on your sunglasses, black heels or brogues (depending on where you’re going) and complete the look with a statement necklace or scarf. This ensemble will have you looking effortlessly stylish and ready for your outing.

Romantic, Girly for a Special Lunch or Movie Date

Valentines Romantic Day Out

Lovely lunches and movie dates are pretty special – you’ll probably remember the day for years to come. So, dress to impress in a flowy, chiffon one-piece, be it a dress or a jumpsuit. Accessorize with red pumps or matching heels, a delicate neckpiece and maybe even some bangles. Amp up your feminine charm with a curly hair-do, manicured nails and dewy-finish makeup. You’ll look fabulously fashionable and all set for some sweet romance.

Formal for a Dinner Date
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If you’re going out for dinner on Valentine’s Day, you have to bring your A game and wow your audience. Wear a formal dress with a bold silhouette such as a bodycon number or straight-cut one. Pair it with a statement jacket and sky-high heels. Wear some necklaces and bracelets, leaving the hair straight so as to accentuate the outfit and accessories. With such a striking, high couture ensemble, you’ll certainly be getting oodles of attention from your date and others.

So what do you think? What’s it going to be, this Valentine’s Day?

Winter Styling Tips and Advice

Hello Everyone! So excited to share my article on styling tips for winters that was published on iCraze Magazine.

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Winter-Styling-Tips (2) Read Below for the whole article.

Silver Streak / Metallic Shimmer

Winter is the season of festivities with so much to enjoy the best way to add oomph to your attire is accessorize with Metallic Shoes & Accessories. I love the glisten of silver sandals and bags, and no matter how cold the night is they will always add that sparkle to your dress.

Fur Coat

One statement piece that you must buy this winter is a fur coat, it’s add that instant glamour to our look and is a must have this season. This piece has seen a major comeback this year and is here to stay even for the next winter.  You would love how it can quickly create a night out outfit by simply adding fur coat to your jeans and tshirt.

Puffer Jackets:

With the winter chill settling in, there is nothing better than opting for this fashionable puffer Jacket which is anything but your typical cold-weather topper. This winter, bold colours, delicate cuts, and cool add-ons accessories are trending big time

Neons:

The vibrant shades of neon from late 70s & 80s will return with lots all add ons this season. You can pair them with neutral colours such as gray, navy, or camel. And it is sure to add to your vibrant personality. You can also choose to do subtle neon on your eyes, lips, or nails and keep everything else neutral or dark.

Chunky Knits:

For the bang-on-winter-trend look, combine your chunky knit sweater or cardigan with leather, silk or voile for surprising effect. This season you will be many big designers coming up with some very interesting styles, Crazy embellishments, sheer styles, one-sleeved, graphic etc. This will make you look edgy and sexy, while still feminine and chic

 Powder Blue and Pink:

 The newest take on winter blue is powder blue. Also pink, be it light feminine pink or bubblegum hue, regardless of that you can’t go wrong with these colors this season. These shades with a hint of soft cream would be the favourite choice for tops and shirts this season. They offer both a modern classic and contemporary edge. Intricate embroidery removes the stark feeling of the hue

Statement Hats:

 Make a bold statement with a headwear this winter. Big, neutral or bright, you can opt for any to match with your attire. Once you get a statement-making hat, be sure to pair it with some sexy ankle length or knee length boots and you are all set to welcome winters in the most fashionable way.

Ponchos & Capes:

 This ’90s clothing staple will come back this winter with a bang!  Pair an over-sized poncho with skinny jeans and sneakers for a super casual winter look. Oversized cape dresses will make you stand out this season with their embellished and inflated designs.  The cape with metallic pattern will dress up any outfit.  You can also pair up with your party dress to stay stylish and warm.

How To Buy The Right Winter Boots

How To Buy The Right Winter Boots

When it comes to winter essentials, you really cannot make it through the season with a pair of trusty and trendy boots to cover your feet. There are so many different styles, sizes and silhouettes available that making the right choice can be difficult and confusing. Over the years, I have picked up a few tips from friends, family and my own experiences, which make the experience of purchasing the perfect winter boots much easier. Keep these tips in mind for the next time you hit the shops!

Take Your Body Shape Into Consideration

It is not about buying a pair of boots – it is about buying the right pair of boots for your body. Ladies who are short should opt for styles that hit below the knee because anything higher will make you look shorter. Ankle boots and knee-high boots are always a good bet. If you are on the curvy side, stay away from calf-length boots, which will essentially cut your legs in half and make you look wider.

Think About Practicality

Your winter boots have to be stylish and chic, but they also have to provide your feet with grip and warmth they need during the winter. Look at buying boots that are lined with a material that will keep your toes warm when you are out and about – wool linings are always my favourite as they keep my feet really toasty, even in sub-zero temperatures. The grip is very important as well, because you don’t want to be slipping and sliding on the pavement.

Explore The Range

Even within a particular type of boot, there are so many different colours, materials and styles available. I would strongly suggest that you take out the time to browse the entire range that is available, both in stores and online, before making a purchase decision. Boots, when bought correctly, are great investment pieces that can last you for seasons you come, so spend your money wisely and on a pair that you are one-hundred-and-ten-per-cent happy with.

Look At More Than Just Size

Obviously, you need to buy your boots in the right shoe size for them to fit, but there are a few more numbers that you need to look at before picking them up. The first is the circumference. This will tell you just how easily the boot will fit your calf. Also look at the length of the boot shaft, which shows you how high the boot will come up to on your leg.

StyleMeee Launch by FashionForRoyals

Hi All,

So excited to announce the Launch of StyleMeee Personal Styling Services for Women Around the Globe.

You can click the link below to read more.

StyleMee By FashionForRoyals, Founded By Archana Dhankar Launches Premium Styling Services For Women Around The Globe

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About StyleMee

StyleMeee is a venture from FashionForRoyals founded by the well renowned stylist and Image consultant – Archana Dhankar to change the online styling & shopping experience of Women. This premium style residence offers unique and elite styling services to women all around the globe. Some of the services offered are personal shopping where the only effort one has to make is to try outfits StyleMeee would’ve handpicked to augment style that would suit the individual personality of the client. It has personal styling service to decode for the clients what goes into looking fabulous day after day with minimal effort and expert fashion advice tailored to the specific needs to never let you feel stuck in a style rut again. Following the session, StyleMeee will send over a presentation detailing recommendations to help execute the transformation effortlessly. StyleMeee also offers Virtual Styling service specially designed to cater to clients who can’t take time out for a face-to-face consultation. It will bring style services right in the comfort of their home conveniently timed to fit their busy schedule. This fashion villa also offers personal styling services for specific occasion be it wedding, red carpet, outing with friends, party etc. It has affordable luxury services for both private and corporate client. To avail any service, you can initiate with the free consultation over phone or email. Post which you can choose the service of your choice and celebrity stylist- Archana will personally curate specific style,  clothing items and accessories that accentuate your body shape and size, and fit into your lifestyle and budget.

Led by a prominent fashion expert, StyleMeee is fulfilling the void of the personal stylist for every woman regardless of her cultural or professional background

Outfit of the Day (OOTD)- How to Style Black Pants

Here is my new post on how to style black pants into different looks from business to casual

OOTD- Black Pants

Look 1 – Business Formal.

I have styled the black trouser from Cos with a Powder Blue Top and Blazer.
Light colours are a great contrast with black business attire. Especially the floaty fabric makes it easy to wear

Black Pants Formal

Outfit Details:

  1. Black Trouser – Cos
  2. Powder Blue Blouse – Hobbs
  3. Black Jacket – Hobbs
  4. Court Shoes – Dune
  5. Bag – Dorothy Perkins

Black Pants Formal 1

Look 2 – Casual Chic

I love these trousers so much that I have 2 pairs in the same style and I tend to wear them a lot. Even for casual days such as days out with friends & family for a slight more aplomb.

Outfit Details:

  1. Black Trouser – Cos
  2. Print Long Blouse – Monsoon
  3. Court Shoes – Dune

Casual Look

Look 3 – Day Look

Here is my third look where I have styled the trouser casually with a blouse and cardigan

Outfit Details:

  1. Black Trouser – Cos
  2. Printed Blue Blouse – Warehouse
  3. Cardigan – Linea , HouseofFrase
  4. Court Shoes – Dune

Any Style specific questions please feel free to drop me a note below. You can also email at fashionforroyals@gmail.com

3 Must Try Makeup Trends For Autumn

Must Try Autumn Make Up trends

I love everything that autumn has to offer – the crunch of fallen leaves beneath my feet, the zing of pumpkin spice lattes (clichéd, I know, but they are so good!) and the joy of layering my favourite fashionable pieces. What I love more than anything, however, is the makeup that comes with the turn of season – richer warmer and sexier. These are the three trends that you simply must try this autumn! I promise you will fall in love with them.

Berry Lips

Until you have experimented with berry hues on your puckers, you are not truly in the autumn spirit. I love that these tones are reminiscent of the dark lip colours of the 90’s, but with a burst of freshness that makes them modern and downright cool. Right now, I absolutely love the L’Absolu Rouge lipstick in Rose Couture by Lancôme – the lovely pink undertone creates the perfect berry shade that suits all skin tones!

Bronze Eyeshadow

Metallic shadows for eyes have been all the rage for a while now, but this fall has seen the comeback of warm bronze shades after a few seasons. Not only does this colour encompass all the richness and spirit of autumn; it also works wonders in brightening your eyes and the area around them. Wear the bronze on its own during the day or add some gold to the look for a glamorous night look. Either way, you simply must try this trend!

Flushed Cheeks

For the longest time, gorgeous pink cheeks had disappeared from the limelight, replaced by sleeker, contoured cheeks. I am very happy to announce that flushed cheeks are back for the fall and are brighter than every before! Use products with a high colour pay-off to create a bright and natural flush a la Gigi Hadid and Kylie Jenner. I am digging the Laura Mercier Crème Cheek Colour right now.

The best part about these makeup trends is that you can sport them in isolation and all together as well! What more does a girl need?

Three Fashion Books That Every Girl Should Read

3 Books Must Read

Whether you are looking to pursue a career in the fashion industry, or are simply passionate about all things stylish, there are a host of brilliant books available to boost your inspiration and information. Over the years, I have read many fashion publications, some good and some bad; however, there are certain books that I keep returning to, time and time again.

Ladies, I present to you – the top three books that every fashionista must read.

That Extra Half An Inch

Victoria Beckham has always been one of my most admired style icons and when she published this masterpiece, I was simply over the moon! That Extra Half An Inch is a guidebook filled with practical advice that every girl can use, covering everything from how to find the best accessories to how to buy statement pieces for special occasions and so much more! I love that this advice is realistic and transcends time and trends – definitely one to have on your bookshelf in the years to come!

The Little Black Book Of Style

When it comes to looking elegant and sophisticated on every day of the year, Nina Garcia is the person to look up to. Not only is her fashion game on point; she is absolutely gorgeous, too! Again, this book is filled with practical advice that you can actually use and covers everything from how to avoid a fashion faux pas to how to combine texture and colour. I particularly love the bit about how to cultivate good taste – so important! The message of the book is very clear: fashion trends might fade but style is eternal and internal. Love, love, LOVE!

The World According To Karl

If there is one thing I love more than the iconic Chanel 2.55, it is Karl Lagerfeld’s quirky sense of humour. This book is peppered with statements made by the king of fashion and although they might initially strike you as very bold and outrageous, you will come to realize that they are ridiculously true. This book goes beyond fashion and subtly addresses issues like self-confidence and why you should be yourself. Major win!

Get them Killer Cheekbones – Try These 5 Facial Exercises

Cheekbones

Ever looked into a magazine and wondered where you were when God was doling out those high cheekbones to all the models? Ah, well, you’re not alone. Most of us would be ecstatic to have such wonderful facial structure that looks effortlessly chic.

But if we aren’t naturally gifted with them killer cheekbones, it’s time to take things into our own hands. And yes, there are ways and means other than surgery to achieve this too. All it takes is a little bit of effort and some major facial aerobics.

Here are five facial exercises that will help define your cheekbones – give them a try, some of them are actually fun!

  1. O-X Face

Start by making a small ‘O’ with your lips. Now stretch them wide as far as possible, as when you do to say ‘X’. Alternate between ‘O’s and ‘X’s for about 10 repetitions, making sure you stretch and contract your muscles intensely with each move. Say the letters ‘O’ and ‘X’ out loud to add rhythm to the movements.

  1. Balloon Face

Inhale and puff up your cheeks, much the way balloons get filled with air. Alternate the air concentration, shifting it from one side of your face to the other. Exhale through your mouth till the very end of your breath. Repeat continuously for as long as you want. If you run out of breath, stop, regularize your breathing and resume the exercise if you want.

  1. Fish Face

This is a popular and very effective one. Suck your cheeks in (as far as they will go) with your lips tightly closed and hold the position for 6 – 8 seconds. You will feel the skin over your cheekbones stretching if you do it right. Repeat the movement 3 – 4 times and by the end, you will feel like your face has just had an intense workout!

  1. Mouthwash Face

Suck in some air into your mouth – roughly equally the amount of mouthwash you use. Move your mouth in the same motion as you would while rinsing with mouthwash. Make the movement as fast as you possibly can. Continue for 1 minute, then rest and repeat. If you want, you could do this with actual mouthwash when you brush twice daily.

  1. Clown Face

Smile as wide as you can and shut your eyes. Place your hands right beneath your cheekbones and push your cheeks upwards. Your facial structure will temporarily resemble that of a clown. Hold the position for 15 seconds and then relax. Repeat 10 – 15 times in one go.

If you do even a couple of these exercises every day, you are sure to see some results in a couple of weeks. Do them right before you sleep or just after waking up so you have a routine. Maybe you could even do them while watching TV, listening to music or sitting in the loo. The point is, find the time, do the exercises and you’re one step closer to a more sculpted face with enviable cheekbones.

3 Simple Side-Swept Hairstyles for Brides

Sponsored Post

Your wedding attire is ready. You have bought your jewelry, chosen accessories, picked up the right make-up, and now all that remains is deciding on a beautiful hairstyle that will complete your look on your big day.

A side hairstyle is a great option and can be tweaked to complement a vintage, traditional or modern look depending on your choice of outfit. Such a style can suit women with long and medium length hair. A side-swept hairstyle ensures the front and back of your dress remain in full view. It also frames your face without overwhelming it.

Some of the best sideways hairstyles trending as bridal coiffures these days are as follows:

1. Bun

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A messy side bun looks pretty when you paired with a vintage gown. You also get a chance to flaunt your dazzling chandelier earrings. A side bun ensures that your hair stays off your nape and doesn’t get entangled with jewelry or the embellishments on your dress.

To make a messy side bun, gather all your hair on one side and secure it in a ponytail. Divide your hair into sections and comb them in a reverse direction. This is known as back-combing, and it adds volume as well as increases hold. Pin up each section upwards to complete the bun. If you sport a fringe or bangs you can twist them once and pin them for a classy 60s look, or leave them be for a fun flirty look to complement the bun.


2. Braids

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Braids give a sophisticated yet unfussy look to a bridal get up. Braids well with western bridal wear such as gowns and dresses as well as with traditional Indian outfits such as sarees and lehengas. You could opt for loose or taut braids, and achieve the desired length of fullness by using extensions.

For a perfect side braid, part your hair sideways. Start with a regular French or fishtail braid from the broader side of your parting. After braiding it up to the ear-level start bringing over sections of hair from the farthest side to where you are braiding your hair. Secure the ends with a transparent rubber band. Accessorize the braids with flowers or seed pearl accents to complete your look.

3. Loose waves

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Long hair left loose with a little bit of texture in the form of waves is a great way to get a dreamy princess-like look. Gowns, floor length dresses and even Indian wear such as backless dresses are perfectly complimented by this kind of hairstyle.

For perfect loose waves, work a mild hold gel through your hair. Curl two-inch sections around your curling iron and hold for 20 seconds. Continue until all your hair is curled, mist with a holding product. At the very end arrange all the hair over one shoulder and mist with a holding product.

These side-swept hairstyles are stylish, easy to achieve, and low maintenance. Try one of these and enjoy your big day feeling and looking on top of the world.

For more quick and easy hairstyles visit www.rewardme.in

How to Look Your Best in Every Photo

Pose for Camera

Do you suffer the trauma of being that one person in a photo who always looks awkward and distinctly uncomfortable? Well, you are not alone – there are just too many people out there who think the camera is the devil and avoid it at all costs.

Admittedly, all their apprehensions are understandable. I mean, who wants physical proof of how bad they can possibly look, which is what photography essentially entails for the non-photogenic folk. No one!

However, bad photos are not simply an outcome of some fateful curse that the photo Gods have put upon you. Often, you too are making no effort to look good in front of the camera and that naturally shows up in the snapshots.

So, what you need is some little tips and tricks that will help you look your best in every photo. Read on and find out what you can do.

Be Camera Conscious

If you have the knack for always being captured on camera in the funniest, most embarrassing poses, it’s time you started being camera conscious. Accept the fact that candid shots are not for you. Instead, even if you have to be that one person who is staring into the lens in every photo, do so because that is always better than looking ridiculous in each shot.

Practice Your Smile

Most people who are dissatisfied with the way they photograph find much fault in the way their facial features appear. Perhaps they get too awkward when the camera is on them and do not know which expression to wear. If you are similarly unaccustomed to posing, take a minute to study yourself in the mirror. Practice smiling while staring at your reflection and figure out which expression looks best to you. Try close-lipped smiles, goofy grins, soft laughs, smirks and more; identify which of these you find to be most flattering and be sure to pose that way the next time pictures are being clicked.

Prep Yourself a Bit

When you know someone is about to take a picture, prepare yourself for the camera quickly. And no, this doesn’t mean you rush off to the bathroom to touch up (well, do that if you can). What it means it that you fix what you can without a mirror. Shake and tousle your hair a bit to give it volume. Dab your face with a napkin to remove shine. Straighten out your outfit and assume a nice pose. Now you are wondering how to nail that last one, right? Here’s how.

Pose Perfectly

Bad posture and worse body angles are what produce horrific photos. So, make sure that the moment someone whips a camera out, you automatically get photo-ready. Firstly, elongate your neck and spine as you stand straight for slouchy-you will look very shabby. Then, angle your body and face such that you are not facing the camera head-on. That is usually the most unflattering angle for everyone. Turn your body slightly sideways and allow about 3/4th of your face camera exposure. To avoid a double chin, tip your forehead forward and tuck your chin in (this may seem weird to do, but will give a great finish on camera). If you are prone to blinking in photos, shut your eyes till the photographer gives the get-go and open them just as he clicks.

Find a Good Setting

Some kinds of lighting, background and camera angles are in themselves unsuited to photography and will invariably produce bad pictures. Try to avoid getting clicked in these, or find suitable remedies. If it’s possible, get clicked in natural lighting, such as out in the open or near a window or door perhaps. If you are indoors however, make sure you are facing the light source so that you don’t appear dark and dull. Also, lighter backgrounds are better for snapping pictures for they brighten the frame and bring your form into focus. Finally, keep in mind that photos clicked from a higher angle than your face always look better. So if someone shorter than you is clicking, find a chair to sit on or duck subtly.

The bottom line is that great pictures don’t just happen in the blink of an eye – that’s how bad photos get taken. So make sure to pose and position yourself correctly, while also wearing a beautiful expression. Do this and enjoy pretty shots of yourself each time!

#ShortGirlProblems: How To Look Taller

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There are some things that you cannot change – like your height. We all know that one of the easiest ways to add some extra inches to your frame is to slip into your sky-high heels, but is the daily pain really worth it? I think not. Contrary to popular belief, there are several ways to score that model-esque height without torturing yourself. I hope you’re listening closely, ladies!

The first trick in the book is to switch over from low-rise bottoms to a more flattering high-waist style. The latter makes your legs look longer, thereby creating the illusion of a taller body and a slimmer waist. Win-win!

The monochrome trend has been making waves for over a year now, because of its sleek and sophisticated vibe. However, what you probably did not know is that wearing one colour from top to bottom makes you look taller than you actually are, by creating a single vertical line. Black on black is always a good choice, but do not be afraid to experiment with brighter hues as well!

By now, you must have deduced that looking taller is all about creating vertical lines with your body and your garments. Another effective way to harness the power of long lines is by wearing clothes with vertical stripes. Like monochrome, vertical stripes make your body look leaner and longer.

Now, I am all about up-dos in every shape and size, but did you know that piling your head atop your head would instantly add the inches you have been looking for? A topknot is always an excellent style to sport, because you can easily take it from day to night. A classic pouf to any old ponytail or messy bun works equally well, too.

If you are on the shorter side, you definitely need a pair (or five!) of pointed flats in your wardrobe. They obviously will not add as much height to your frame as a pair of six-inch heels would, but they are definitely your best bet when it comes to heelless shoes. Invest in a pair of these babies and watch your leg line lengthen!

Finally, remember that clothes cannot do everything. An easy but often forgotten way to add inches to your body is to focus on your posture. Stand with your back straight, your shoulders backwards and your head held high. It makes a world of difference!

10 Fashion Commandments For Every Lady

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I am a firm believer in living life with no rules, and the same philosophy holds true when it comes to fashion as well. I do believe, however, that when it comes to style, there are certain guiding principles that every lady should keep in mind. Do not think of the Ten Commandments that follow as hard rules, but rather as lights that will guide you in finding your own sense of style.

1. Invest more money and time in finding timeless pieces that will last you through seasons and years – crisp white shirts, tailored blazers and diamond earrings.

2. Focus on fit over fashion trends. Even the most stylish garment will look shabby if it does not fit properly on your body – trust me.

3. Always accessorize to complete your outfit. You do not need to dress up like a Christmas tree, but never leave the house without one accessory that will take your look to the next level.

4. Break the rules – wear black with brown, layer silver necklaces with gold ones, choose horizontal stripes over vertical lines – and have fun with it!

5. When you are planning your ensemble, think of your look from head to toe and style it with the whole picture in mind.

6. If it makes you feel uncomfortable, do not wear it. Fashion is all about feeling good in your own skin, so stay away from pieces and trends that do the opposite.

7. Always have a go-to look for those days when you wake up late or are simply feeling uninspired. Mine is a pair of boyfriend jeans with an oversized white shirt.

8. Think about proportions when you are planning your outfits. Balance is key.

9. Always dress for the occasion. There is no bigger faux pas than sporting distressed jeans to a formal event. Think about it and dress accordingly, ladies.

10. Be yourself, always and forever!

5 Tips For Dressing Like A #Girlboss

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I am a firm believer in the power of dressing sharply and smartly i.e. like a #GirlBoss. (PS I am also reading #GirlBoss Book these days – you can see all behind the scenes activity of what makes fashionforroyals on my Instagram, follow me now!) Dressing powerfully does not have to break the bank and you certainly do not need to be a fashion editor to do so. In fact, it is really easy – just start with the five tips that follow!

1. Tuck your shirt in. I know that the “half in, half out” style is making waves in the streets, but every power woman knows that a well-ironed and neatly tucked in shirt is the way to go. Trust me.

2. Treat yourself to a pair or two of tailored pants to complete your #girlboss wardrobe. These babies will hold you in good stead and last you for a couple of years if you treat them right, so do not be afraid to spend a little extra for great quality and the perfect fit.

3. Play with proportions (within limits, of course). Your ensembles do not have do be boring or standoffish. Have a little fun by experimenting with shapes and silhouettes. Wear a fitted white shirt with wide leg trousers, cigarette pants with an oversized turtleneck…you get the idea, ladies. Keep it classy.

4. Explore your androgynous side. Do not get me wrong; I am all about pencil skirts and killer heels, but I have come to realize that being able to pull off a menswear-inspired outfit can be a wonderful confidence boost. Play around with brogues, bowties, pinstripes, waistcoats and more! The sky is the limit.

5. Find your uniform. Now, when I say uniform, I certainly do not mean a look that you wear every single day but rather, your go-to ensemble that makes you look like you have spent a lot of time putting it together when in actuality, you rolled out of bed ten minutes late. Your uniform should be flattering and make you feel comfortable in your own skin. My uniform is a pair of skinny jeans, a silky printed top and a fitted blazer, topped off with pointed ballet flats. Et toi?

5 Easy Ways To Make Your Outfit Classier Without Spending A Bomb

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Contrary to popular belief, an outfit that is both stylish and sophisticated does not always have to burn a hole in your wallet. In fact, there are a bunch of ways to infuse your ensemble with an easy elegance without spending a bomb. I’ve listed out my five favourite ideas for you to try out before the year is over!

01. I’ve said this before and I will say it again: fit is everything. The truth is that a well fitted dress from a thrift store will always look infinitely better than an ill fitted designer dress. If you want to look classy, you must take out the time to find pieces that fit your body well.

02. Without a doubt, my biggest pet peeve is an outfit that is not ironed. Nothing pulls an outfit down from classy to crass like creases, so if you want to add that element of sophistication to your look, ensure that your clothes are ironed to perfection. No excuses.

03. I love playing around with patterns, textures and fabrics, and over the years, I have come to realise that certain fabrics look much classier than others – think linen, silk and cotton. Of course, these require much more maintenance than their synthetic counterparts, but the effort is worth it!

04. I’ve noticed that when it comes to looking elegant, your clothes are not the only deciding factor. Hair makes a huge difference to your look, so never leave the house without ensuring that your tress game is on point. Your hairstyle does not have to be elaborate, as long as it is neat and frizzy fly-away strands are a total no-no.

05. Shoes can make or break your outfit so make sure that your footwear is always clean and not scuffed. Dust your shoes before wearing them and if they are made from a material like patent leather, keep them shiny. If you’re wearing open toe sandals, please, please, PLEASE make sure that your nails are cut and filed at the very least, if not impeccably manicured.

Remember, ladies – the elegance lies in the finer details. Make them count.