Classic Cocktail Look and Outfit Inspiration

Plazzo pants or trouser pants a 70’s style statement have been doing the rounds of the Indian & Pakistani fashion scene this spring summer. Palazzo pants are wide legged pants something like bell bottoms which can be paired with different key pieces in your wardrobe. They are great for summer as they are generally made from light fabric.

Designers have been pairing palazzos with kurtas, crop tops, long jackets and more for a contemporary look. From silk bottom to embroidered palazzos they are there everywhere. If you are planning to attend a cocktail event for an Indian function then why not mix it up a little by going for a modern take on the ethnic wear and go for embroidered bottoms with a short kurti.

This outfit is designed by Anaya Textile. The brand is known for their great collection of fabrics which are traditional with a contemporary twist for today’s modern women. They cater to all ranges when it comes to lehengas, bottoms or kurtas, and are known for their customised creations where one can design their own outfit right from the embroidery to the colour palettes.

A cocktail event is a formal event so I wanted to for something on the modern side. I personally feel on such an occasion it is important to make a statement without breaking the bank, and while dress would get too simple and a lehenga or sharara would get too jazzy. Thus I suggest you mix it up a bit with embroidered pants a short kurta.

I kept my jewellery light and stuck to a few key pieces like a long necklace to balance the outfit on top and let the bottoms be the hero of the outfit. Since it was a traditional event I have taken a light dupatta but this outfit looks great even without it as you can see in some pictures.

If it’s a formal event but not on the traditional side then you can even pair the bottoms with a plain silk blouse or a crop top. Since the bottoms are beautifully embroidered try to keep the rest of your look and outfit simple. I have gone for an elegant look with my makeup and hair tied in a low bun, as I wanted a very casual updo and wanted the focus on the embroidery in the bottoms.

You can even create different looks with these bottoms you can pair it with a contrasting blouse and a dupatta or pair it with a knee length kurta. Since the colours on the bottom are neutral you can go for colour blocking with shades of pink, orange, salmon or stay in the safe zone with colours like off-white, gold and blue.

If you are going for palazzo pants with minimal work on the bottom then you can pair it with a heavy top or a dupatta. If it is a formal cocktail event in the evening then opt for something modern like an embroidered gown. If it’s more on the traditional side for a wedding then go for an Indian outfit like an embroidered palazzo and kurta or anarkali.

Credits:

Outfit – Ananya Textiles
Jewellery – Master Jewels
Hair & Makeup – Jasleen Kaur
Photography – Shoot and Star
Styling & Ideation – FashionForRoyals
Location – House Leamington 

How would you pair embroidered pants? Let me know in the comments below.

Lucknowi Chikankari Suits – A perfect outfit for Summer Day Out

As Indians we all love dressing up in our traditional clothes, it’s a part of our culture. From Lehengas, to the elegant 6 yard Sari to a simple Suits we have so many options to choose from. Since summers are upon us, I love wearing light cotton kurti’s and traditional outfits when attending a function. Family events are the best time to adorn colourful Indian outfits.

A kurta is one of the most versatile outfits one can have in the wardrobe. You can style it in multiple ways and pair it with leggings, churidars, salwar, palazzo pants and more. Mix it up with the right accessories and you can take your outfit from formal work wear to an evening wear for an occasion.

For the summer I prefer light summery fabrics like cotton or georgette. One of my favourite styles of Kutras is ‘Chikankari’ Kurtas. Chikankari is a traditional art of embroidery from Lucknow, the City of Nawabs. The embroidery style uses delicate threads to weave detailed patterns with great finesse.

This work is done on an array of materials like cotton, silk, muslin, georgette, chiffon and organza. If you are a fan of all things handcrafted then a Chikankari kurta or a Lucknowi kurta is a must have in your ethnic wardrobe. From floral motifs to the epics and myths surrounding the Indian culture, one can find intricately embroidered details on a Chikankari kurta. 

I love the thread work and the detailing of this work. These kurtas are very popular and can be worn for any event. One can even find this work on other ethnic outfits like Lehengas, Anarkalis, Tunics, Dresses and more apart from kurtas. What’s better is that they are available in beautiful sorbet colours and pastel shades like blue, off-white, pink, peach and more.

I wore a red Chikankari kurta for a small family gathering. You can dress yourself up in cotton kurtas or kurtis adorned with this beautiful art. I teamed up my kurta with black leggings and a wrinkled cotton dupatta. Pairing this with high black heels, a tribal neckpiece and a small embroidered bag, gave it an effortless look for a small family gathering.

The black bag adds an element of freshness in the entire outfit and perfectly colour blocks with the red kurta. You can even pair the kurta with palazzo’s or cigarette pants if you want a modern touch to your overall look. But if you are a true traditionalist then you can pair this combo with colourful juttis or flat sandals which are extremely comfortable.

Outfit Details: Rust Colour Chikankari Kurta from Ada Chikan

Which is your favourite Indian outfit? Let me know how you like to style it in the comments below.

Hair & Makeup by Verdeep Dhillon

Multi Designer Fashion Website – ShopRaR.com Exclusive Discount Voucher

Sale is a fashionista’s favourite four letter word. It’s something that makes your heart beat because let’s be real who doesn’t love to find a designer wear they have been eyeing for months at half the price. If only we had sales going on all year long! Oh, what a dream come true. Every day would be a shopping day, and you would always have something to wear. That only seemed possible in a parallel universe until I stumbled upon ShopRaR.com

ShopRaR.com is a fashion brand which retails multi-designer wear. It has a collection of coveted South Asian fashion brands which can be bought for an envious deal. Didn’t understand? ShopRar is basically like a pop-up shop which has crazy sale deals for 72 hours, after which you cannot find that collection at the same price. If you come back a few days later, then you would have a brand new designer altogether. So if you don’t get your hands on to those exclusive deals, then you miss out big.

What’s different about ShopRar is that you can find your favourite Indian brands at an amazing price. It makes the whole shopping experience fun and highly addictive. I find myself checking their collection quite often. As a fashion brand, ShopRar boasts an excellent collection of women’s wear by Indian Designers. They have a curated collection which is very versatile, full of life, colour and culture. They have everything from Kurti tops you can pair with jeans to sari blouses you can pair with a high waist skirt at highly discounted prices.

They have collections from designers like Rabani and Rakha, Sanchit Mehra, Saaj by Ankita and much more. The collections are curated to showcase the latest styles which are fashionable and practical at the same time. So if you have an event, wedding or party coming up, you should check this site out. Also if you are a bargain hunter and want to treat yourself to a new outfit for all the hard work you do then the bargain sale is a great option.

I also have an exciting treat for you guys. I have collaborated with ShopRar to give you lovely ladies a discount of $25 on your next purchase from their website. But it doesn’t stop here. It gets even better because they are running the promo code with us for the whole month of March!

Don’t Miss the Sale. Shop On: www.shoprar.com | Offer Code – FFR25
Since they don’t have a set schedule of sales, you can follow them on all social media channels to find out when the next event goes live!

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shoprar1

Twitter: https://www.facebook.com/shoprar1

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shoprar/

Warp ‘n Weft- Where Modernity Blends with Tradition

Benarasi, the rich fabric that defines the grandeur of the ancient city of Varanasi, truly captures the essence of Indian tradition. Indeed, Benarasi deserves to be called the “Fabric of Antiquity” as it epitomises the culture and heritage of the country. And what I love the most about this textile is that it effortlessly blends with contemporary dressing, making a timeless synergy of modernity with tradition.

Today, Benarasi is making fashion headlines as designers across the globe are taking it to the fore. It is my favourite too and I love to play with these rich weaves. I find it perfect for creating stunning fusion ensembles. The vibrant colours and distinctive weaves of this luscious and rich fabric make an extraordinary combination with the simplicity of western attire making it elegant and chic.

When it comes to Benarasis, Warp ‘n Weft is the brand name that comes to mind. I picked some exquisite Benarasi weaves from this brand to create a unique look with the famed ‘brocade’ and ‘khinkhab’ marrying our Indian cultural heritage with western.

Benarasi Shorts with Jumper 

This glamorous ensemble combines a pair of stylish shorts from Warp ‘n Weft in Silk ‘Khinkhab’ with a mustard coloured full-sleeved jumper. Crafted in rich burgundy Benarasi fabric with floral weave, the cute hot pants are the highlight of the ensemble. And the knee-high boots complete the look to perfection. The entire look is a statement; bold and confident style and can make one standout no matter what the occasion speaking of the adaptability of this vintage pure weave to suit the look of the discerning woman.

Benarasi Lehenga with Leather Jacket

The second look that I have put together brings together the magic and timelessness of  Benarasi and the sassiness of leather. This one is an unexpected combination which has an elegant Benarasi Lehenga in bronzy metallic hues, choli in deep wine not red, teamed with a stylish black leather jacket. The vibrant choli features the traditional Benarasi butti weave. The lehengas which has panels in the subdued shades of bronze and gold, is woven like poetry in thread with the ‘Sunflower Buta’ in design. And the funky leather jacket adds the oomph factor to the look. The ensemble is creatively accessorized with a lovely Kundan neckpiece to enhance the eclectic touch. What’s more it keeps me warm in this chilly English weather. A great alternative to make sure I get to wear my favourite Indian Skirts no matter what the weather. Gives the whole outfit that grunge look. **wink** **wink**

Warp ‘n Weft is a revolution in itself when it comes to Benarasi weaves. The brand has been catering to a global clientele since 1997 showcasing the rich culture and provenance of the master craftsmen weavers of Varanasi. The brand understands the desires of the emerging trends and burgeoning demands of buyers who appreciate the beauty of the significant hand-crafted Benarasi fabric and would settle for nothing but the best.

The flagship store of Warp ‘n Weft is in Mumbai. The brand also enjoys an international presence, as it collaborates with Este Couture in the UK and soon would be exploring new tie-ups too. Additionally, it offers an amazing bespoke online styling service “Warp ‘n Weft Personal”, which brings customised fashion to the doorstep of Benarasi lovers. From colour detail to yarn detail and weave detail, the brand customises the fabric according to the customer’s desire. Buyers can have a unique and personalised look designed just for them by availing this exclusive service.

Benarasi is the fabric that has a global appeal and Warp ‘n Weft continues in their endeavour to get it all the recognition that it deserves. The brand endorses Benarasi, not as a fashion fabric but as a legacy that is to be carried forth to the next generations.

Aashni + Co Wedding Show London 2017

Aashni + Co Wedding Show is the grand Asian wedding exhibition that has been a part of London’s fashion calendar every year since 2015. The third edition of the show was showcased on 8th January 2017 at The Dorchester Hotel, Park Lane, London. The ultimate destination for bridal designer wear, Aashni + Co Wedding Show is a presentation of London’s renowned luxury boutique Aashni + Co.

After the grand success of the show in its last two seasons, this year too it received huge acclaim as expected. A large number of fashion enthusiasts wanted to witness the grandeur and charisma that it had to offer. They were queued up, all waiting with excitement to have a look at the exquisite bridal finery by some of the top designers from South Asia. This year, the show theme chosen by Zita Elze was “French Orchard meets Garden of Eden”, which made it all the more exciting for discerning fashion lovers.

Tarun Tahillani, Sabyasachi, Anushree Reddy, Rimple and Harpreet Narula and Akansha Gajjria are some of the leading designers who have graced the show with their exclusive bridal designs. Each and every creation was outstanding and the buyers were literally spoilt with choices. There was extensive variety to cater to brides and grooms with diverse tastes and preferences. Let’s have a glimpse at all that these big names from the fashion industry had to present:

Tarun Tahiliani brought an amazing collection, with clothes that were a wearable blend of tradition and modernity. The collection was designed with the mixed yet refined taste of UK clientage in mind, ensuring that the bridal wear was meant for the modern bride. The bridal outfits, though traditional to the core, carried just the right dose of western influence as well.

Link to the Video Interview with Designers Showcasing at Aashni & Co.

Sabyasachi presented a collection that was yet again a grand showcase, something he is so well known for. The maestro also talked about the contemporary trends in the wedding industry. He went on to say that today’s bride is more than willing to experiment with her attire, breaking the conventions and opting for bohemian and whimsical trends.

Akansha Gajjria returned to the show for the second time after receiving rave reviews last year and this time it was bigger than her last time. The signature collection of this talented designer had lots of mirror work and embroidery work. And the clothes were as gorgeous as the designer herself!

Rimple and Harpreet Narula offered classic and awe-inspiring bridal designs for people with discerning eye for excellence. It is worth mentioning that the designer is the name behind the outfits showcased in the upcoming period-drama Bollywood movie “Padmavati”.

Anushree Reddy came up with a lovely collection that was hallmarked by delicate pastel hues and refreshing floral prints.

In addition to these big names, Aashni + Co Wedding Show had a lot more to offer for the modern brides and grooms. I had a great time feasting my eyes with such an impeccable variety in breath-taking and amazing designs. Another season of the grand bridal event came to an end….and once again we would all be waiting for the next year to bring the best for brides yet again!!!

Latest Indian Fashion Trends to Keep You Sorted

­­­The Indian Bride needs no introduction; she struts with elegance and vibrancy whilst maintaining poised and dignified. There was never any dearth of creativity and experimentation in the bridal wear department, and with ever-evolving Indian fashion, but it is only getting better! Whether you want to play it low-key or go all out and make a splash, you can find options galore depending on your taste and style. The key to reflecting your inner beauty and joy has always been to stay true to your personal style. You are sure to exude confidence when you’re comfortable with your fashion choices. However, that does not mean that you compromise on staying in trend. ­

A blend of your personal style and emerging styles is the best way to go! It would be important to note that more than 73% Indian Brides who live abroad prefer to have their Wedding outfit custom- made to their taste (Source- Indian Hanger).

Keeping this in mind, we’ve listed down our tips on what you should look for when picking out your trousseau. The outfits featured in this post are available on IndianHanger.com.

  1. Play with colours: Gold, Beige and hues of Green are the new Reds. Elegant beige and gold Lehengas with ornate gold embroidery is sure to make any bride look divine! Since it is a classic ensemble, it is suitable for any Bride, irrespective of your personal style. Opting for these combinations also makes the piece versatile, as it can be worn at a later date as well.
  2. Fabrics: You can choose from silk, georgette, and even Banarasi silks with zari work to make a statement. Team your gold saree with a pop of colour in your blouse or choli to break the monotony. The highlight of such outfits is
    that you can match them with any kind of jewellery; be it polki, antique gold or diamonds to complete the Royal look.
  3. Add a twist to your traditional outfits: Mix and match and play around your wardrobe a little to create a style statement. You can team a traditional lehenga with an embroidered off-shoulder or cold shoulder blouse just like the runway hits by Sabyasachi and Manish Malhotra. This gives you plenty of room to show off your heirloom polki jewellery or tiered necklaces. Printed or embroidered crop tops in beautiful fabrics such as silk and brocade can be teamed with modern dhoti pants, sarees, high waisted skirts or lehengas to add versatility to your collection.
  4. Indo-western silhouettes: It’s time for Anarkalis and Lehengas to move over, so that we can say Hello to Gowns! Saree gowns and draped gowns are sure shot head-turners during a cocktail or reception party. You can also play around with a one shoulder cut that flares along the hem, anarkali gowns or organza pleats this season. They blend very well with traditional Indian accessories, whilst making a style statement of their own. Just a tip to keep in mind: Make sure that they do not weigh you down as that can be a dampner!
  5. Jacketed in style: Re-usable separates like jackets are quite a hit when teamed with palazzo pants, skirts, lehengas or even a saree. Choose from a heavily embroidered open jacket in dark hues such as brown, navy blue, maroon or black to go along with a simple saree with a gold border. Jackets are the go-to option for a Sangeet, as they are comfortable and will enable you to dance the night away!
  6. Get some velvet: The soft and luxe velvet fabric is a must have for every bride. Watch the intricate zari work/ embroidery come alive in velvet! If you prefer a minimalistic look, you can start by pairing your embellished saree with velvet blouses. If you are going for a heavier look, you can try an all over velvet embroidered lehenga. Believe me, it will make you look drop dead gorgeous!
  7. Accessories: You can always team your outfit with traditional polki, diamonds and gold. But how about adding some chand maang tikkas to look like the Royal Queen that you truly are! Try a chunky bracelet for your reception party and give the bangles a break. The Kamarbandh or the waistband has been a runway hit too. You can choose from plain, narrow, printed or embellished Kamarbandh’s in all shapes and sizes. It can be worn as a belt around your waist or under your blouse to give it that high waisted silhouette.

Links to all the Outfits featured in the post:

Peach Dhoti Dress – http://www.indianhanger.com/peach-dhoti-dress.htm
Peach Peplum Top & Dhoti Pants- http://www.indianhanger.com/designers/divya-kanakia/peach-peplum-dhoti.html
Golden Net Blouse- http://www.indianhanger.com/designers/divya-kanakia/golden-net-blouse-with-pitta-work.html
Golden Jumpsuit Saree Gown- http://www.indianhanger.com/designers/red-couture/golden-jumpsuit-saree-gown.html
Statement Kundan Maangtikka- http://www.indianhanger.com/designers/shillpa-purii/statement-kundan-maangtikka.html
Long Pearl Necklace- http://www.indianhanger.com/designers/shillpa-purii/long-pearl-neck-piece.html
Crystal Stone Pearl Bracelet- http://www.indianhanger.com/designers/shillpa-purii/crystal-stone-pearl-bracelet.html
Beige Brocade Blouse- http://www.indianhanger.com/designers/divya-kanakia/beige-brocade-blouse-with-zardozi.html

My final tip would be to pick pieces that have a timeless appeal, rather than choosing ones that are a runway trend. Most importantly, remember to ensure that you feel comfortable in your skin as the outfits have to be worn by YOU. Whilst you can follow trends, make sure you choose ensembles that make your heart skip a beat every time that you see them!

 

Aashni + Co Wedding Show – London

The overwhelming growth of the Indian wedding industry says it all about the scope of business for bridal fashion for the South Asians residing across the globe, including those in the UK. Looking at these encouraging statistics, various events are organised internationally to showcase the best in Indian bridal fashion. The upcoming Aashni + Co Wedding Show to be held in London is going to present the most amazing opportunity for the Asian brides and grooms to get their dream wedding attires from the best designers of South East Asia.

Aashni + Co, the pioneering concept store located in Notting Hill, will be presenting the famous Aashni + Co Wedding Show on 8th January 2017 at the Dorchester Hotel, Park Lane in London. I am looking forward to attending the grand bridal exhibition, which brings together the best of South Asian designer creations for the crème-de-la-crème amongst UK’s South Asian community. One of the most awaited events in the Asian fashion industry in UK, Aashni + Co Wedding Show has rightly been called the ultimate destination for luxury couture bridal wear. You Can also read my review of the last year’s Aashni & Co London Event Here

Aashni + Co Wedding Show is the brainchild of Aashni Anshul Doshi, who is the founder and creative director of London’s renowned luxury boutique Aashni + Co. She envisions the show as a platform for presenting the most extravagant and opulent bridal creations of South Asia’s affluent designers for the high-end Asian buyers in the UK. Right from its launch in 2015, the grand event has been offering an unmatched shopping experience to discerning wedding buyers looking for nothing but the best.
he event will be showcasing breath-taking creations by all the big and internationally renowned names in bridal fashion industry, with the likes of Anamika Khanna, Anushree Reddy, Elan, Gaurav Gupta, Sabyasachi, Tarun Tahiliani, Monisha Jaising, Rimple and Harpreet Narula, Jade and ASAL by Abu Sandeep. With the most amazing craftsmanship, contemporary designs, bright hues, wonderful fits and exquisite detailing, the ensembles offered at the show promise to transform the vision of each bride and groom to-be into reality.

According to Aashni, this year’s show promises to be the most exciting till date as it will be incorporating the best talent and expertise in the industry, making the bridal shopping experience far more extravagant than one could ever imagine it to be. I am super-excited to see what the show has to offer and get the feel of all the luxurious and rich creations that these leading brands are so well known for.

Besides the big names in the industry, the Aashni + Co Wedding Show, is associated with Zita Elze, Akshayapatra, Sony TV and Hello! Pakistan, who would all be supporting the event. Tickets are priced at £30 each, but I am sure that these are going to be every penny worth spent!

Looking forward to catching you all there!

Best Dark Lipsticks to get you through winter

Spring and Summers went by leaving the love trails of corals, pinks, and, pastels, but intense winters call for some electrifying drama. The fashion is high on experimenting with patterns and colours. For one such thing, we are obsessing over this winter is our love for dark lips.

Dark, opaque lips radiate glamour and intense appeal but what does it take to sport it effortlessly. We tell you what are the trending shades and how can you carry them.

Find all the trending shades at Shoppers Stop.

Reds
Red is forever; it’s bold, glamorous and it defines a strong charisma. Not everyone can play with the colour, those who do, do it flawlessly.
How to wear the shade – Kohl-rimmed eyes, contoured face, and deep red lips. All good to go!

Browns
Brown shades are versatile, subtle, rich and make perfect workwear picks. Lots of mascara and kajal and brown lips are the perfect combination for a work wear look.
Maroons & Wine
The richness of marrons in unbeatable and they have been our favourites! The classic wine lips or the gorgeous deep maroon ones are perfect for sporting on winter outings. Light smokey eyes are perfect to compliment your wine tinted lips.         
Burgundy & Berry
The plush and enchanted burgundy and berry shades make a bold dark colour preference that defines oomph and power. Keeping your face minimal and sporting dark lips is sure to get you a lot of compliments this season.
Blues & Blacks
Something too bold and daring for someone to sport, it is not an easy game to play black lips so effortlessly as Rihanna! When Rihanna was spotted flaunting the bold black lips, the beauty world took it with mixed reactions, some did not appreciate and some found it a daring trend. We pretty much give a thumbs up for the look, you create a gothic impression and it’s a fun look to try!

What do you guys have to say about it?

Festive Season Inspiration with Indian Hanger

I am an Indian at heart who calls London her home, and festive season is definitely when I miss my friends, family and
country more than any other time in the year.1-fashionforroyals-4During the festival of LIGHTS, I love the buzz of shopping and meeting my friends. The auspicious occasions call for celebrations in Indian ethnic outfits.

This post is dedicated to all the expats from India, who miss India just as much and would like to be a part of the rich culture and heritage even when they are not in India. Interestingly, I revisited the site www.indianhanger.com, which I had used a couple of years ago to reconnect with my roots back home in India.1-fashionforroyals-8I have been a regular customer to this online portal and I have noticed how they have paid close attention to the finer details. They have been able to represent India’s ethnic and traditionally rich culture in their unique designer collections available across the globe. What I love about them the most is their ‘Custom Fit’ ideology. Will it fit me? That is always my biggest challenge (and I am sure that it is the first question that comes to any Indian woman’s mind who wants to wear Indian ethnic wear too!) with Indian clothes. The comfort of knowing that the product you have ordered is as per your exact measurements saves you the nightmare of wondering if it will fit you when it arrives, or if you may have to return it. Fact: More than 60% of the outfits are returned due to their FIT issues across the e-commerce industry. Personally for me, this is the BIG WINNER when you choose Indian Hanger as your option for Indian Wear.1-fashionforroyals-9Their collections have moved from clothing lines to human characterisation. They aim to curate unique yet relatable collections that appeal to every kind of woman. They are introducing a range of products for the Tradition Lovers, The Wedding Crazy Bridesmaids, The Avid Traveller, The Enthusiastic Entrepreneur & The Culture Lover in you, to name a few.

My pick was a light outfit leaning towards an Indo- Western look from Indian Hanger, keeping in mind that affordability plays a key role. Being able to buy customised designer pieces at great prices allows you to choose several outfits, which is why I love them so much. Their low and flat international shipping cost makes them an even more obvious choice for me. The comfort of receiving a made to measure product at your doorstep is unparalleled!1-fashionforroyals-7The outfit I have selected is by the Designer Aartiza & Divya Kanakia. A navy blue Anarkali style gown with 40 beautiful kalis! It has a chic sheer effect, which makes it easy to wear for almost any wedding related function. I decided to accessorise the outfit with a pair of statement uncut stone earrings, a traditional crystal stone bracelet and a clutch.

Indian Hanger has many more designers collections featured on their website, featuring a selection of both Indian and contemporary outfits. To complete your ethnic look, they also have a variety of statement jewellery pieces and accessories. It definitely saves you the hassle of having to worry about quality or having to look elsewhere for matching accessories.

More Outfit Details Below:

Outfit – Aartiza & Divya Kanakia
Bracelet – Shillpa Purii
Earrings – Shillpa Purii
1-fashionforroyals-19

Some statement accessories that you should add to your collection to add that oomph to your outfits are: Maangtikkas (pair them with lighter earrings or a neckpiece), Statement Earrings, Paayals (anklets), Statement Clutches, Ethnic Bangles or Cocktail Rings.

As for the outfits and styles that are going to be a really big hit this season, look out for: Embellished Capes, Dhoti Pants, Velvet fabric outfits and Long Sleeve Blouses. One of the biggest trends that is making a comeback is mixing and matching multiple outfits to recreate new looks from your existing wardrobe!1-fashionforroyals-16

Don’t forget- Festive Season or Occasion Dressing is all about having fun and being creative! Reinvent your style this festive season with www.indianhanger.com

Braun India Fashion Week London 2016 Review

Fashion week is one of the most awaited events in every fashionistas calendar.

Last week India Fashion Week London sponsored by Braun opened its doors to some amazingly talented and creative designers and models that put on a stylish and tasteful show with vibrant designs at the ExCel Center in London. The show was hosted by, Anushka Arora who looked stunning in an Abha Chowdary creation. It was a two day event which showcased many celebrated and new generation designers like Bhumika & Jyoti, BIBI London, J’adore Adorn, Intiprinti Abha Chowdary, Ashok Mannay, Athea Krishna, Studio AV on Day 1 and Lanacherry, Mohit Goyal, Valour Rose, Ravita Mayor, Masumi Mewawalla, Alpa Reena on Day 2. The event ended with an inspired and fabulous grand finale by Rocky S. The event also had representatives from JD Institute who saw immense potential and diversity in the collections and makeup artists like Namrata Soni.
braun-india-fashion-week-london-2016-1 braun-india-fashion-week-london-2016-2 braun-india-fashion-week-london-2016-3 Braun India Fashion Week London is a platform which brings together renowned and upcoming British, Asian, and Indian designers from across the world. The event was launched by Bhumika & Jyoti whose designs showcased opulent shades of cream and gold lehengas, capes and dresses with intricate gold work. Next up was BiBi London fashion house which had a versatile collection of florals in deep wintery colours designed by several designers. The event also welcomed new comers like Intri Printi and J’Adore Adorn who walked the ramp with finesse. Their first collection was vibrant and decorated with traditional and modern embellishments and embroideries. The show was concluded by Abha Choudhary, Ashok Maanay and Studio AV. Abha’s ‘Suhaag’ collection, bridal couture was inspired by rich Indian cultural elements.
braun-india-fashion-week-london-2016-4 braun-india-fashion-week-london-2016-5 braun-india-fashion-week-london-2016-6 braun-india-fashion-week-london-2016-7 braun-india-fashion-week-london-2016-8 I attended day 2 of the fashion week. The day began with designer Svetlana Casper showcasing her Eclipse collection with modish free flowing printed designs in black and white which was followed by elegant creations of bold lehengas by Valour Rose. The final catwalk showcased stunning designs from the Varna Collection inspired by the royals rolled out by Ravita Mayor which was flaunted by her showstopper, James Lee Taylor. Next was AlpaReena whose designs were an infusion of traditional and contemporary styles which was then followed by the grand finale designer Rocky S. He is a renowned designer who has designed outfits for Paris Hilton, Beyonce and the Pussy cat dolls. The collection represented the bold and fierce modern woman through an exclusive range of rich prints and hues. The runway exhibited majestic and warm colours like emerald green, gold, pinks reds and dark purple. The best part of the fashion week was how each designer added a twist to the traditional Indian wear either by incorporating waistcoats, turbans, capes or belts. Also, smokey eyes and nude or red lips were popular among models. The overall show was glamorous, and the bold patterns, and contemporary collection didn’t fail to impress me.
braun-india-fashion-week-london-2016-11 braun-india-fashion-week-london-2016-12 braun-india-fashion-week-london-2016-13 braun-india-fashion-week-london-2016-15 braun-india-fashion-week-london-2016-16 braun-india-fashion-week-london-2016-19 braun-india-fashion-week-london-2016-20 braun-india-fashion-week-london-2016-17Who was your favourite designer? Let me know in the comments below.braun-india-fashion-week-london-2016-18

Warp n Weft – An Ode to Benarasi Heritage in London

A sari is one of the most versatile Indian attire. A typical 6 yard sari has been a part of the traditional Indian wardrobe since decades. It’s a go-to item for any occasion be it formal or casual. It is a drape which flatters every body type and makes you look gorgeous instantly.

There are many fabrics, materials and styles that one can choose from when draping a sari. A Benarasi is a classic and iconic sari and has been an all-time favourite for many Indian women.

A Benarasi sari is a traditional sari which comes from Benaras or Varanasi, a city in India. The saris are inspired by the mystical personality of the holy city known for its beautiful temples and ghats. The 6-yard silk sari is woven with gold or silver zari or silken threads and is decorated with intricate patterns and designs. There are various patterns and designs in Benarasi including the Jungla, Chouka, Aada, Khinkhab and so on. From geometrical designs to metallic floral designs, a traditional benarasi sari always looks regal and elegant.
warp-n-weftThese saris have been part of the of the Benaras household since centuries. This tradition has been passed through generations when Indian women used to wear these hand woven silk beauties for special occasions like weddings. A typical piece takes months to finish based on the intricacies involved, which makes it riskier for the weavers, since by the time they finish a piece it may be out of fashion. That’s where Warp ‘n Weft comes in play by working from the grass-root level.

Warp ‘n Weft is an institution from Mumbai which brings the voice and soul of Benares in the exhibition of traditional hand-woven benarasi textiles at the flagship store in Mumbai for last two decades. The founder and creative director, Ms. Sagrika Rai, is born and brought up in Benaras which makes this project close to her heart.

Warp ‘n Weft hosted a week-long exhibition at the Nehru Centre in London till the 30th of September 2016. Warp ‘n Weft presented the secrets from the sacred Ganges and the opulent traditions of the Indian culture to London through the gorgeous textiles and handlooms. The curated collection had a perfect blend of traditional Benarasi handlooms with modern sensibilities which made the silks look stunning along with ethnic style of jadau jewellery from Jaipur Gems.
warp-n-weft-1A special evening was organised on Wednesday 28th of September in London. The event was held at the Nehru Centre in London which promotes cultural exchange between India and UK. The centre has hosted several musical, dance and cultural events in the past. This was an exclusive invite only event promoting Benarasi culture, ethos and handicrafts by Warp ‘n Weft.

The attendees included buyers, press, bloggers and members of the Indian fraternity and the collection showcased traditional apparels in Benarasi Fabric and style like saris, scarves, along with a traditional twist on western outfits like jackets and shorts. The evening and the curated collection was a romantic combination of the east and the west. The event enjoyed real sounds of temples and ghats, handloom and powerloom and various moods of the Benaras life captured and composed by Grammy award winner Dr.Prakash Sontakke, a Hindustani vocalist from the Benaras Music School. Warp ‘n Weft will soon be releasing this music album Benaras A Future From The Past across the digital music arena.

It was an enjoyable evening spent in the depth of Benarasi culture with some soft music, delicious Benarasi food, wonderful people coming together to enjoy a beautiful collection of curated fashion.
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Warp ’n Weft also at the event, announced the launch of ‘Benaras Pashm’, an inimitable expression of a functional blend of pure cashmere with the beautiful Benarasi silks in colours and hues apt for classic as well as modern tastes. The gossamer and delicate complexion of these shawls captured the interest of British Reality TV artist Jasmin Walia to wear one in Pure Burgundy over her sequined lavender dress for the evening.

The Opulence of Diwali  – Festive Event Review

A Sunday well spent brings a week of content. This Sunday I attended a pop up event at Moor Park Golf – Orangery. The Opulence of Diwali is a luxury pop up shop event hosted by Deevara Jewels. With the festive season just around the corner, The Opulence of Diwali, had a collection of local brands with a unique combination of traditional and contemporary designs in accessories and fashion garments. festive-event-1 There is something special about the festive season with the happiness in air, gift giving and families uniting. It is that time of the year when you go back to your roots and celebrate the festivities with your near and dear ones. Festivals are always incomplete without dressing up in traditional attire and enjoying the merriment. The pop up event curated by Deevara was just perfect place to be to start festive shopping.

It was a two day event held over the weekend, 24th and 25th of September, at the beautiful grounds of the Moor Park Mansion at The Orangery. It is a magnificent venue with enormous grounds and a mansion. The venue is a popular choice for several business events, weddings, seminars, product launches and so on. The unique artwork, historical architecture and stunning grounds made it a beautiful venue for the pop up event.festive-event-2Deevara Jewels collaborated with several local brands like Charmi Creations, Jyoti Chandhok, Chahat Mon Désir, Aarsim, Zafran Couture, The Far East Art Studio, Bubbles Jewelry, Sanskara Designs, Shermin and DesiKarigars over the course of two days and showcased a healthy mix of contemporary to traditional wear.

I happened to visit the event on Sunday and had a gala time meeting all the brands and leaning about the key features of what makes each of them different.

Zafran Couture brings the best of Kashmir to the UK. On the day they offered a stunning collection of handicrafts like pashmina, homespun silks, delicate papier maché artifacts and more which are great for gifting purpose.
festive-event-4Deevara Jewels as a brand has a passion for glitter and glamour which reflects in their collection of exquisite Indo-Fusion ranges. On the day they had beautiful luxury semi-precious stoned jewelry that makes a statement, no matter when you wear them. The pieces are intricate, traditional, bold and perfect for any event especially Navratri, Karva Chauth and Diwali. The brand has a unique design offering and heir pieces are a fusion of classic and contemporary styles, which breaks the monotony in your outfits and makes the pieces very appealing.

Aarsim a brand which offers a range of handcrafted bags and clutches with fine cut crystals, rich beadwork and Indian embroideries like Zardosi.

Jyoti Chandok showcased gorgeous collection of sarees, embroidered kurtas, shawls and more. The outfits were ethnic with elegant handcraftsmanship. Her work depicts the best of both worlds, as it reflects the traditional designs and crafts work with a modern touch which makes her apparels classy and timeless.
festive-event-3Bold Accessories are a woman’s armor, and Chahat Mon Desir showcased a lovely collection of pearl jewelry and agate jewelry, which are handmade in UK. The designs are so stylish and versatile that they can be a part of anyone’s wardrobe.

Charmi Creations, collection on the day incorporated a unique style which chic cuts, high quality fabric and innovative styling which makes the tailor made pieces stand out.

The Far East Art Studio portrays various art forms from India, Nepal and Bangladesh. From the best of silks to the best of cottons, they had a diverse collection of sarees and accessories which.

Shermin on the stand had a tasteful collection of casual and semi-formal ensembles, which were quirky yet fashionable and suitable for most occasions.

It was a truly festive experience filled with a lot of glitter, glamour and style. A Sunday well spent, thanks to Deevara Jewels.deevara_opulenceofdiwali_sunday-159-1

Styling With Kurtis That You Don’t Know

Ethnic wears possess some specialities that no one ever dares to offer us. Isn’t this correct Dear? Although western wears give you an out of the box confidence and hopping and jumping spirit but elegance finds its peace only at ethnic wardrobe. From vivacious sets or categories to spell bound styles, ethnic dresses offer wide variety of reasons to wear then during different occasions. And the most simple and plain yet exquisite ethnic line is ‘kurti’ or ‘kurta’ which has amazing styles and can be worn with different types of salwars. So, here we are to talk and discuss about the ways that you have never thought of trying and would be so more interesting.

Below mentioned is the complete list which you may have tried in the past but 4/5s are still unique for you girl. So, steal these styles one by one according to the mentioned occasion.

Anarkali With Skinny Boots

Have you taken enough inspiration from Deepika Padukone or still on the way? Well, this style will definitely take you to another level.
image-2Wear Anarkali kurtis of medium or knee length with ankle or calf length boots and flaunt your little despo ideas to your friends. So, next time when you buy any online Anarkali kurti, you will for sure think of this style.

Layer Over Layerimage-3It’s just okay when you wear jeans or leggings and catch out a kurti to pair with this. But sometimes these layering look too simple to be noticeable. Better you should try once this style.

Drape a cotton or cotton silk wraparound and wear a straight kurti with it. Layer this attire by catching a medium or long length jacket (can be of denim as well). Peep toes will match them greatly.

Kurta Only & Nothing

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So, you are planning for a beach tour this month or coming days? And you are thinking that this can’t be hot with ethnics? Dear, then you are absolutely wrong!

Buy a kaftan style worked kurti and wear it as it is over neon bikini. Just make sure that your kurti is sheer enough and has lightest colour combination (prefer white or peach).

Culottes & Kurti

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So what if it is not a designer kurti? To be the cynosure of everyone’s eyes, you don’t have to spend a fortune!

Get a pair of culottes and pair it with chikan work or embroidered kurti. The length of the kurti should not exceed your thigh limits. Strapped sandals look awesome with this fusion attire.

Confusions are already too much in our life. At least you do not have to think and think on your wardrobe hassles.

You can also treat your kurti as a top or T-shirt if tucked in properly. You can try this style with georgette palazzos, ripped shorts and many more. Wear oxidised jhumkis with them to pose like a showstopper.

Maximizing Style with Minimal Fuss: #OOTD Maxi by Myrah

With 2016 flying by at an unbelievable pace, autumn is here now and I couldn’t be more excited. This is a busy time for the fashion industry and a joyous treat for fashion mongers like me! And you know what the best part of this season is? The weather! It’s not too hot or too cold and you can wear all sorts of combinations, colours and textures; the options are endless!myrah-maxi-dress-3

 But I do have some favourite styles I like to play around with at this time of the year. Maxis are my go-to outfit and this post is a tribute to the versatility and comfort they promise. Don on a maxi and all you need to think about is the styling. No worrying about looking fat or thin, feeling hot or cold, or being uncomfortable when going out for a long time.myrah-maxi-dress-4So when I was on a shopping spree sometime last month, and go this beautiful blue maxi from Myrah that you see me wearing in the picture. It appealed to me for it has an ethnic print in blue and cream and I simply love fusion outfits! I just had to buy it. And honestly, this isn’t my first purchase from Myrah so I knew the dress will not just be effortlessly stylish but also of great quality and price. In fact, I have a special liking for clothes by this brand for these very reasons and am quite a regular customer.myrah-maxi-dress-5 In terms of styling, I chose to keep it simple since the maxi in itself is quite striking. I wore big silver earrings and platform heels, and added a rustic touch with my jute handbag. The makeup was also subtle, though not bland. The aim was to let this Myrah beauty work its charm and grab all attention while I could keep the accessorizing and makeup minimal. And it worked! I got just so many compliments for this ensemble!
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And this is what I love about maxis – they are glamorous without trying! And they look flattering on everyone, regardless of their body type. Moreover, you can wear them on all kinds of occasions – casual outings as well as semi-formal or formal events. I tend to pick maxis for day-wear when going out for brunch, picnics and shopping. I can already feel that the autumn weather is going to have me wanting more such outfits in my closet. Maybe I’ll buy a couple more from Myrah. Ah, that sounds nice!

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Outfit Details:

Maxi Dress – Myrah

Necklace – Missguided Mixed Bead Statement Necklace (bought from ASOS)
Sandals – Monsoon
Tattoo – Heena BK
Bohemian Bag – SignatureWear.in

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What about you? What is your go-to outfit this season? Do share, I’d love to know!

7 Must-Have Dresses for the Festive Season 2016 – 2017

It’s that time of the year when festivities are in order. For the desi folk in particular, there is little respite from recurring celebrations of varied kind. There are some major festivals, a few minor ones, multiple weddings and pre-wedding events; the list goes on and on. It goes without saying that this is exactly the time when you can call out all stops and dress to the nines! Just don’t restrict your options to the typical lehenga, sari or suit because hey, it’s 2016! The possibilities are endless with ethnic wear and you have to go beyond safe, comfy clothing to stand out. Here are some stunning ethnic dresses you can wear this festive season.
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  1. Short Length Lehenga
    Who says lehengas need to reach your very ankles? That’s so 2015. This year, break convention and wear a lehenge with the skirt reaching somewhere below your knees. Asymmetrical bottoms are also quite in vogue and layered ones look even more chic.
  1. Lehenga with Pockets And Belts
    Another striking east-meets-west ethnic outfit is the lehenga with pockets and/or a belt. It gives a modern, more casual edge to your look and is perfect for pre-wedding events such as the Sangeet Ceremony or Cocktail Party.
  1. Dhoti Style Saree
    This style has been sported by numerous Bollywood celebs in the past few months. This is for those experimental desi divas who love them bold outfits. Dhoti-style saris look great with short, fitted cholis/blouses and I’d personally recommend minimal accessorising.
  1. Dhoti Style Suit
    Kurtas with dhoti-style bottoms are great for occasions such as Diwali when you want to look stunning, but in fuss-free attire. Comfy yet classy, dhoti style suits will look good with a buttoned/jacketed kurta and high heeled shoes.
  2. Embellished Jumpsuits
    For those new-age celebrations like the pre-wedding Cocktails or Diwali Card Parties, embellished jumpsuits make for the ideal Indo-Western look. Wear one with sequin-work or ethnic embroidery and accessorise using jhumka earrings, ethnic clutches or metal bangles.
  1. Saree Gown
    Fusion outfits such as the Saree Gown as just so fabulous. They add a heavy dose of glamour and have you looking like a star. Wear a saree gown and accessorize sparingly; let your dress be the highlight so you don’t look like you’re trying too hard.
  2. Aztec Print Saree
    Off-late, ethnic couture has embraced Aztec prints like one of its own. From saris and suits, to lehengas and palazzos, you can find Aztec prints on all of them. Such apparel is perfect for casual events such as anniversary parties, Reception functions, etc.

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So what are you going to be wearing this festive season? Do share!

Adding Oomph To The Ordinary With Classy Contemporary Jewellery – #OOTD

A couple of days ago, I was feeling extremely lazy. I had a casual outing planned for the day but found myself lacking the desire to dress up! Now that is a rare occurrence in my life, but I guess everyone is allowed one of those days. Sometimes you just want to wear the first thing that falls onto you when you open your overstuffed wardrobe. And that’s okay, as long as you have some tricks up your sleeve.Deevara (7)Deevara (8) On such days, keeping your look simple is the way to go. But you’ll probably object that lazy or not, you always need a little bit of jazz. After all, you are a trendy diva, aren’t you? Ordinary turnout is not your thing. Neither is it mine. So I arranged a quick-fix that would turn my plain, comfy outfit into statement attire which screams “casual chic”. I put on some classy fashion jewellery and immediately, I felt and looked so much better!
Deevara (2)Deevara (9)And that’s when I decided; I must do a post on how to glamorize simple attire using classy, contemporary jewellery. As you can see, I’m wearing a pair of fitted, basic blue jeans by Next and a striped blue-and-black kaftan top by COs Stores. I wore string sandals to match my informal clothing and stayed away from all accessories other than some light jewellery.
Deevara (6)Deevara (5)The pieces I am wearing – the beaded necklace, the charm bracelet and the statement rings – are all by an up and coming brand Deevara Jewels. I first encountered their collection at the Bollygoods Show this year and was instantly captivated. You see, even though the brand makes only contemporary fashion jewellery, there is something very elegant and exclusive about it. It doesn’t look like junk jewellery you bought off the streets – it is beautiful and subtle and very fashionable!
Deevara (10)The red and white beads of the necklace offer a contrast to the black and blue beneath. Since the top has a boat-neck hemline, it’s perfectly suited for a long neckpiece. The silver bracelet too went well with the colour scheme. The delicate charms and multiple wrap-around strings make my wrist look more dainty. Both statement rings have a chunky stone set in German silver. This adds a wee bit of rustic appeal to the otherwise uber-modern outfit.
Deevara (3)And this is what I love about Deevara Jewels’ – their unique approach to jewellery design. Their pieces are a fusion of classic aesthetics and contemporary stylistics. They bring something new to the table and that, to me, is very alluring. They use semi-precious stones for creating Indo-fusion jewellery that is spectacular yet affordable. Currently based out of Denham, Deevara’s collection can be accessed through their Facebook Page and Instagram accounts. I’m adding the links so may check them out too!
Deevara (4)https://www.facebook.com/Deevarajewels/

https://www.instagram.com/deevarajewels/

Do you see what I did here though? My final “lazy day look” isn’t bare and boring at all. This is because I used jewellery intelligently to boost the trendiness of the ensemble. Do you have any such quick fixes and fashion hacks to share? Comment and reveal!

Outfit Details:
Top: Cos Stores
Jeans: Next
Bag: Monsoon
Jewellery: Deevara
Shoes actually an old pair I love from 2008 😉

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PC – Hannah K Photography

HandPainted Juttis by Haelli – An example of Vibrant Indian Heritage

When I stumbled across The Haelli – a brand that creates beautiful, handcrafted Juttis – I knew I was in love. The Jutti is a type of leather shoe that originated in the north of India; however, today, they are hugely popular across the country. What makes Juttis from The Haelli different, however, is the fact that they are hand painted in India and completely customizable.

Haelli-Jutti The designs are inspired by the rich, vibrant heritage of India – you will see this influence in everything from the painted patterns to the bright colour palettes that are incorporated into the design of the Juttis. The end result? Footwear that combines the best traditional symphony and contemporary style – it’s elegant, it’s quirky and it’s downright fashionable.

As you can imagine, the Juttis by The Haelli are incredibly fun to style. You can use them to brighten up a monochrome outfit, wear them with a flirty dress for the summertime, or team them with an equally vibrant scarf for a serious style statement.Haelli-Jutti-2I selected the ‘Morpankhi Feather Painted Juttis In Bright Fuchsia’ for their lovely, vibrant colour. I started by pairing them with a deep blue, bird printed dress. The fauna-inspired print feels fresh and is absolutely perfect for the warm weather. I threw on a nautical-style striped jacket for some extra cover. I am totally feeling big, bold stripes this season – they are on-trend and super easy to pair with anything and everything! Plus, mixing prints makes for a very interesting, quirky look. The trick is to mix prints that are completely different and either perfectly complement or completely contrast each other in terms of colour. I opted to work with prints that fell into the white and blue colour scheme, throwing on a spotted scarf to finish off my look. This ensemble is perfect for a warm afternoon spent shopping with your girlfriends, strolling through the park or simply running errands while looking chic.
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I love the vibrant pop of colour that the Juttis bring to the muted colour palette. Definitely a great way to add some oomph to your summertime style!

You can find these Juttis here https://ekatrra.com/designer/the-haelli-by-neha. These products are also available at Ambaar, 50, Fashion street, Shahput Jat, New DelhiHaelli-Jutti-5

Gauri Khan and Bollygoods Edition 2 at The Dorchester, London Event Review

What better way to spend a bank holiday, than to go to a celluloid inspired fashion and lifestyle exhibition. BollyGoods Edition 2, London, a high end platform showcasing the culture of Indian Cinema was held on May 2nd at The Dorchester, Mayfair.
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BollyGoods is bringing all things bollywood together in one place, it was founded by Promila Jain Bahri, hosted by Shivani Ahluwalia. The lovely décor and as usual great statement pieces were unveiled by Gauri Khan, an Indian Film producer, interior designer and wife of the most loved superstar, Shah Rukh Khan.

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The event presented the works of some of the immensely talented family members of Bollywood’s Superstars like Gauri Khan. Besides this, BollyGoods also showcased the works of fashion designers like Gauri and Nainika, Roshni Chopra, Manish Arora, Babi Grewal, Kanika Kapoor and Abha Dalmia. Jewelers, Artists and Couturiers who cater to the world of Bollywood like INNAYA, ONITA, Redot Jewels and Devara Jewels also participated in the event.

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The BollyGoods Edition 2’s official charity partner was The British Asian Trust, founded by HRH The Prince of Wales in 2007. The main motto of the trust is to do something about the prevalent poverty and hardship in South Asia. Other partners included Ravish Kapoor, Air India, Sony Television, Media Hive and more.

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