Indian Fashion Archives - Page 3 of 5

Forever Fusion – An Indo Western Look Styled With Juttis

Hope you’re all having a great week full of wonderful clothes and flawless makeup! I’ve been having a lot of fun with Indo Western outfits these days and so this is a post on how to team a pair of beautiful ethnic juttis with western attire.

Now the thing is, off late, I’ve been missing my home back in India quite a bit. I’ve been living in UK for a while now and while I love my home, my workplace and the culture here, the unique environs of India make me a victim to nostalgia. Funny as it may be, in such times, wearing stuff from the (rather huge) ethnic section of my wardrobe makes me feel awesome. And this brings me to the fusion outfit you see me wearing here.

I have teamed a pair of exquisite juttis by Panache An Elite Affair with ankle length blue jeans, printed white blouse. You can style these juttis with any pair of basic blue jeans or simple trousers/chinos, summers and spring are a great time to wear this footwear. Though I have not worn them with cullotes or long skirts yet, I think such combinations would work great for a boho-chic look too. I’m planning to experiment with more fusion styles during my summer vacation – stay tuned to find out what I’ll be wearing this holiday season!

I have to say though, no matter where I’ll be going or what I might be wearing, I am going to be carrying this pair of juttis with me! The embellishments and thread-work on them is so intricate and beautiful! And more importantly, they are super-comfy and light, so I can wear them all day long if I want. I have worn them for several hours and didn’t get a single cut or sore on my feet. I was told by the one of the founders of Panache that these juttis were made in Dubai and the brand’s guiding principle in making their elite footwear is combining utmost quality with absolute comfort.

Incidentally, like a lot of up and coming fashion ventures, Panache An Elite Affair is the brainchild of two ambitious sisters having a great stylistic vision and good entrepreneurial sense.

Muskan Jhingan and Bhumika Mehta started Panache in May 2015 and have already carved a niche for themselves in the industry. Bollywood actress Kriti Sanon may be seen sporting a pair of Panache’s lovely juttis too! They have opened retail stores in Delhi as well as Dubai, though anyone can access their collection from their website www.panachehub.com. With dreams of opening stores in cities all across the world and serving their clients with their brilliant creations, this sister duo is serving the fashion world with their brilliant ethnic footwear!

All I can say is that I’m so glad I got this pair Panache juttis. I can’t stop thinking of the numerous outfits I can pair them with. What about you? What’s your favourite Indo Western mix?

BollyGoods Edition 2 Comes to London this May 2016

BollyGoods Edition 2 is a one-of-a-kind exhibition that is inspired by the Indian film fraternity, better known as Bollywood. It is a premium platform for our favourite on-screen legends to showcase their creative talent outside of the silver screen, in the areas of fashion, accessory and interior design. The exhibition will also feature fashion designers, jewellers, couturiers and graphic designers who work closely with the Indian film industry.

For audiences who enjoy the taste of the cinematic world, this is the perfect opportunity to bring the celluloid art and aesthetic into their own home.

The event will be hosted by well-known members of the B-town family, and will be inaugurated by the gorgeous Gauri Khan – a film producer, interior designer and style icon in her own right and wife to supertar Sharukh Khan.

Rohit Bal, one of India’s most renowned designers who is best known for his treatment of royal motifs in a contemporary manner, will be presenting his newest prêt collection. Other exhibitors include Rohit + Rahul, the incredibly talented designer duo whose creations have been worn on red carpets across the globe, as well as famous names like Deepika Padukone, Ranveer Singh, Freida Pinto, Anushka Sharma, Aishwarya Rai Bachan, Alia Bhatt and many, many more.

As if that was not enough, several iconic jewellers will be exhibiting their stunning work as well, including Shri Hari Diagems by Vinay Gupta, who created the beautiful adornments worn by Deepika Padukone in Bajirao Mastani, an emotionally gripping movie that depicts an epic Indian historial romance. Other jewellery designers who will be exhibiting at BollyGoods Edition 2 include Queenie Singh, whose designs have been worn by the likes of Hilary Clinton, the Queen of Morocco and Kangana Ranaut, as well as Roshni Chopra who is a famed actressed, presenter and now, jewellery designer.

BollyGoods was incepted Promila Jain Bahri, a Delhi-based entreprenueur and design fanatic. She is a key influencer in India’s fashion and retail space, and launched the first domestic chilrendswear label – Li’l Tomatoes – which has grown to over one hundred stores across the nation. She started BollyGoods to celebrate and share the creativity of Bollywood with a wider, global audience.

Shivani Ahluwalia, a UK-based luxury consultant, was critical in bringing the BollyGoods concept to London and executing to perfection.

The official charity partner for BollyGoods Edition 2 is The British Asian Trust, founded in 2007 by HRH The Prince of Wales. The trust focuses on addressing eduction, healthcare and employment issues, recognizing that these are inherently linked with poverty.

The exhibition will take place on the 2nd of May, from 1:30pm to 8:00pm, in the Ballroom Suite at The Dorchester, Mayfair, London. The ticket price is £30. See you there, ladies!

Available to buy from www.ChilliTickets.com #BollyGoodsLDN

Winter Wedding Trend forecasts for Brides-to-be

Hi All,

Excited to share my Guest Post for WeddingsOnline.in. Click here to read the post.

Excerpts from Post Below:

Dressing up for weddings in winters is slightly tricky. You have to find something that is both stylish as well as warm, so you have a great time no matter how chilly it gets. Here are some winter wedding trends that will be a big hit amongst the designers and would –be brides of this season.

These styles promise just the perfect balance of style and comfort!

Kurti-Style Lehengas

2015 has shown us that sexy cholis are not indispensible. Yes, you can even wear short kurtis over your lehenga and look like a million bucks. A lot of bridal-wear and ethnic party-wear designers are embracing this fusion of the causal suit and dressy lehenga; so go ahead and try this combo!

Embellished Cape/shawls

A great way to keep your upper-body warm, embellished shawls also add a dash of freshness and glamour to ethnic outfits. Gone are the days when plain or embroidered shawls were all you could choose from! This season is all about lovely sequined or lace-work shawls and you’re sure to be a head-turner bride!

Lehenga with Trail

This winter, the biggest bridal trend would be lehenga designs with nicely designed trail. This royal design will add the right glamour and richness to your bridal attire. You will also see many celebrities spotting this couture lehenga for this wedding season. So try a long chic trail this season.

High-Neck Top-wear & Long sleeved cholis:

Collars and turtle-necks are not just for Western-wear! This season you will see designers opting for some intelligent stylish and tasteful accessorizing, you can give your ethnic avatar an uber-chic look, rocking those high-neck cholis, blouses or kurtis. Just make sure to avoid chunky neck pieces or heavy dupattas with them.

Velvety Fabrics

The chilly season 2016 is the best time to don some velvet. It is warm and trendy and distinctly royal and would be the fabric of the season. The most popular style would velvet jackets over kurtis or lehengas, velvet blouses with heavy embellishments.

Aashni & Co Wedding Show London – Jan 2016

I’m so excited to share this with all of you. I attended the Aashni & Co Wedding Show London last week and cannot describe what an amazing experience it was! As you all probably know by now, I just love ethnic fashion and so when I got the opportunity to attend the event, there was no question of me missing it at all.

(Zita Elze – Enhancted Woodland Theme)

For those of you who aren’t familiar with it, this show brought together some of the most celebrated Indian designers, the names being the likes of Manish Malhotra, Sabyasachi, Varun Bahl, Rimple Harpreet Narula, Masaba, Gaurav Gupta, Anamika Khanna, Anju Modi and Anita Dongre, who were exhibiting their stunning bridal-wear collections at The Dorchester Hotel, London. The event was further graced by Pakistani designer Faraz Manan’s collection as well as Zita Elze’s magnificent floral styling.

This show which first debuted in January 2015, is an initiative by Aashni & Co, a high-end Indian Fashion concept store located in Notting Hill. Given the scale at which it was done, it is clear that Indian ethnic-wear has captured the imagination of people across the globe, which makes me so, so proud!

Now coming to the show itself, what can I say? If I had to use just one word, I’d say it was Exquisite. Every piece of clothing I saw on the day was unique and elaborate; so much so that I still haven’t got over it. In fact, I even suggested to my husband that even though we are married why don’t we do it again. Then I’ll have a legitimate excuse to splurge on all this fabulous designer ethnic-wear!

For me, the highlights of the show were the collections by Sabyasachi and Manish Malhotra. Call me old fashioned, but I simply cannot get enough of their classic brand.

And you have to admit, if it’s Indian bridal-wear we’re talking about, Sabyasachi pops into one’s mind straight away. You can simply never go wrong with the Bengali designer’s uber-elegant creations. At this show, his collection was targeting winter wedding trends and displayed a lot of intricate sequin work. Staying true to timeless styles, Sabyasachi managed to steal the limelight once again.

(Sabyasachi Mukherjee)

And before I could even take in all of what I had just seen, Manish Malhotra’s collection overwhelmed me further. The thing is that when we think of Bollywood, we think of Manish Malhotra, and that is why one’s expectations are very high. And once I saw his collection live, I was more than pleased; his was the most glamorous and chic of them all. Embellished with a lot of fine embroidery and phulkari work, each piece was absolutely gorgeous. His collection was huge with many options to choose from, though since all were so alluring, choosing one would be so difficult!

(Manish Malhotra)

And I wasn’t the only one awed by the sheer immensity of the event. After all, it isn’t often that the cream of the Indian fashion industry are all under one roof with their beautiful work on display. Some of the glitterati were themselves quite taken in by the brilliance of the show. It was one of the best shows in recent times and you could see everyone to be really enjoying it. It was spectacular and beautifully put together with enchanted woodland theme by Zita Elze and complete with a PhotoBoot booth for everyone to have their pictures taken by Elegant and Wild Photography.

(Elegant and Wild Photogtaphy – PhotoBooth)

(Zita Elze – Enhancted Woodland Theme)

All I am hoping for is that they are back next year for the Aashni & Co Wedding Show 2017 so I can feast my eyes on all the spectacular display once again! *fingers crossed*

Evergreen Wedding Accessories – Must Buy for Every Bride

The Maang Tikka

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

Statement Earrings

The statement earrings with the minakari work or kundan work on them can go well with sarees and salwar kameez but you can take a leap in experimentation and team them up with Jodhpur designs with a bright skirt to achieve that perfect bohemian look. Excellent examples of Kundan craftsmanship, these jhumkas also go well along the traditional bridal wear. If you want to add a statement piece to your attire for a cocktail do, statement earrings are your best friend.

Statement Rings

I love statement rings which you can colour match with each outfit, Statement Rings are a bit hit in the wedding circuit for quite some time and take my word for it, they are not going anywhere. This trend is here to stay whether you invest in mega bucks to buy this or not is not really important but dont forget to have a few in your trousseau box.

Anklet

A perfect accessory for any woman, anklets and bracelets in Kundan can be a vibrant add-on to an Indian attire as well as a Western one. Worn with sarees, they do add a tinge of grace to the traditional attire but with a Western casual outfit they offer a pleasant contrast and fuse well. I have started to wear the delicate ones in silver more with western outfits these days and keeping those bejewelled ones in kundan or diamond for special dressing up days.

The Bangles

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

The Nose Ring

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

Desi With a Twist – Indo Western Styles for Wedding Season

The wedding season is just around the corner and the ethnic pile in our wardrobe is naturally going to grow. The thing is, sometimes you just don’t want to wear a suit or a saree or a lehenga. You want to do something different and still look the quintessential Indian beauty.

What is wonderful about living in the 21^st century is that ethnic does not equal boring. There are various new ethnic styles you can experiment with, coming up with interesting outfits that are desi but with a twist. So this wedding season, if you want to go down the fashion street less travelled, these are some ethnic styles you could try out.

Saree Gown

Saree gowns came into public eye after Shilpa Shetty wore a gorgeous golden fusion outfit on her wedding reception. I remember promising myself that one day, I too, will get myself a lovely saree gown. That hasn’t happened yet, but then again, the right occasion hasn’t come along either. If you have a big fat Indian wedding to attend though, you could rock a saree gown in this new ethnic avatar – you will surely be a head-turner, as long as you choose one that complements your body, skin-tone and makeup.

Dhoti-Choli

This is for the fearless fashionista who can pull anything of with much panache. Dhoti-cholis can look very elegant if they are well-fitted and intelligently styled. If you are wearing this kind of a striking outfit, go easy on accessories and makeup – the dress alone is sufficiently eye-catching. Great for sangeet functions or the new-age cocktail events, wearing a dhoti-choli will allow you to dance the night away, without having to worry about falling pallus and tight churidaars.

Ethnic Gown

Ever had a Cinderella fantasy? Why not make it a reality with some lovely ethnic high couture? Ethnic gowns have a very fairytale quality, and well, who doesn’t love a fairytale? You could go in for a fit-and-flare gown to accentuate your waist, a fish-tale one to highlight your curves or a fitted gown to add more height. With the right kind of ethnic gown, you will surely win the appreciation of the Indian wedding fashion police.

Jacketed Ethnic-wear

Sonam Kapoor wore a jacket over her saree to an Oscars’ event in 2014. It was a big hit, and since then, jacketed ethnic-wear has become the chicest style statement when it comes to Indian clothing. Elaborate jackets are matched with suits, anarkalis, lehengas and sarees too, creating a stunning combination of eastern and western styles.

The point is that this wedding season, ditch the classics and try something new! Grab all eyeballs like the diva you are!

The Best Bollywood Style Moments of 2015: Ethnic Edition

The festive season is in full swing and it is definitely my favourite time of the year – endless boxes of barfi, gorgeous ethnic outfits, diyas and candles absolutely everywhere you look, card parties and a whole lot of quality time with your favourite people, both family and friends. Over the last few weeks, I have been scouring around on the internet for some desi style inspiration to come up with the perfect outfits for the various poojas and cards parties on my calendar, drawing some major inspiration from my favourite Bollywood ladies. In true festive spirit, I present to you: the top five Bollywood style moments of this year – the ethnic edition, of course.

Kareena Kapoor in Sabyasachi for Diwali

For Shilpa Shetty’s glorious Diwali bash, Ms. Kapoor dressed like the diva she is in an absolutely stunning sequined outfit by Sabyasachi, accessorized with jhoomar earrings and a classy clutch. There is no getting over this gorgeous look!

Deepika Padukone in Sabyasachi for IIFA

What is it about the designs of Sabyasachi Mukherji that makes every woman look like a goddess? Deepika Padukone at the IIFA awards earlier this year is a testament to this fact. Clad in a shimmery red sari with gold and net details, and some bold earrings to complete the look, Deepika was the epitome of elegance that night. Love it!

Sonam Kapoor for Hi! Blitz

In this picture-perfect shoot for Hi! Blitz, Sonam Kapoor’s stunning golden outfit simply stole my heart away. I am a fan of anything that is gold and shiny, but what I really liked was the oversized maang tikka that really brought the entire ensemble together. You go, girl!

Aishwarya Rai on the cover of Conde Nast Traveller

Although many have criticized the queen of Bollywood on the cover of my favourite travel magazine, I beg to differ – she looks out-of-this-world amazing! I love the sophisticated print on her sari (a classy take on floral print) and the multi-strand pearl necklace that is a timeless classic.

It’s Mehendi Time: Tips to Get it Right This Festive Season!

We all love Mehndi or Heena application, and when it comes to the festive season, it’s probably a must-do for everyone.
Here are some of things you should keep in mind to have a great time with Mehendi application and also brilliant after results:

Don’t moisturize your hands before mehndi application for that acts like a barrier for your skin to then absorb the heena. If you want deep colour, stay away from creams and lotions before getting your mehendi put.
Heena colour comes best when it is dries naturally with body heat. Don’t use external heat to dry it off simply because it’s chilly out there or you don’t want to keep it on for too long.
If you love deep colour, there is some extra effort you can make to get that rich pigmentation. Use a mixture or sugar and lemon as paste to apply on dried heena; this will get it to stay on the hands for longer and you will get a darker colour for sure.
You could also heat some clove on a flat pan and warm your hands over it after you have removed the heena. You could even apply some herbal pain-relief balm on your hands provided you can bear the intense smell of it.
Don’t wash your hands after the heena application for at least 7-8 hours. Simply rub off the heena once it has dried and then don’t get your hands in contact with water for a while.
Remember to get your manicure and pedicure done a day before heena application. With everyone looking at your hands after application, you should be ready with your perfect tips to wow them all!

10 Ways To Add Some Oomph To Your Lehenga Ensemble (Lehenga Styling Tips)

When it comes to Indian attire, you really cannot go wrong with a well-fitted lehenga in a royal colour; however, there are many ways to accentuate the beauty of your desi two-piece. I, for one, am absolutely dying to see ladies take their lehengas to the next level with some smart and sassy styling. As the end of the year rolls around and wedding season begins, try your hand at one of these ten tips to make your classic lehenga more fabulous and fashionable!

Highlight your hips by adding a belly bauble to your ensemble. You can opt for a traditional and heavy kamarbandh or a light and single stranded belly chain. Either way, they look amazing!
Switch up your regular jewellery for floral jewellery that is made from fresh flowers. I love this look – it is so different and totally stylish!
Explore different ways to drape the dupatta of your To be honest, I have had enough of the traditional styles of draping – it is time to be more adventurous and really push the boundaries. Better yet, try two dupattas for some extra fun!
If you are wearing your lehenga for a daytime function, why not wear it with a matching waistcoat instead of the dupatta? It is bound to put you in the spotlight but even better, it saves you from the hassle of managing your dupatta all the time!
If you are feeling fierce and bold, skip the dupatta altogether and let the rest of your outfit do the talking!
Think about your footwear. They might be covered for most of the part, but even the small glimpses of your feet can make a world of difference. Opt for good quality sandals that match either the colour of your outfit or the colour of the embroidery. Add some cute anklets to the mix as well!
When it comes to a bag, stick to clutches. Bigger bags will detract from the beauty of your two-piece. Classy clutches in metallic tones are always the way to go.
Instead of going all out with your earrings, think about styling your lehenga with a jazzy ear cuff instead. It is definitely less tedious on your ear lobes and makes a serious style statement!
This is a great one for daytime affairs – throw out the shiny choli and wear your heavy skirt with a modern crop top instead.
Sometimes, your hair and makeup can make more of a style statement than your accessories so spend time thinking about what you would like to do.

5 Trousseau Essentials For Indian Brides

While I am yet to have my very own “Big Fat Indian Wedding,” I am well aware that being a bride is hard work. Along with planning the festivities down to the smallest detail, you also have to worry about what you will need after the wedding is over! Most ladies have a standard checklist of items for their trousseau, but many forget the small essentials that can make a world of difference. Here are the five items that you simply must have in your trousseau:

A Statement Blouse

Your trousseau will be filled with gorgeous Indian saris, no doubt, but it is absolutely important that you have at least one statement sari blouse in there as well! Unlike heavy saris which can only be worn a couple of times (and only once with the same crowd), this piece can be worn over and over again with different saris and lehengas. Opt for an embellished blouse with in a neutral colour like black or gold and use it to add some magic to your sombre saris!

A Versatile Clutch

Once I started using clutch bags on a regular basis, I always wondered how I ever did without! No trousseau is complete without a versatile clutch that can be worn on every occasion. Bonus points if it works equally well with Indian and Western outfits! To get more use out of your tiny bag, opt for a clutch in your favourite metallic or neutral shade.

Timeless Indian Jewellery – Baubles

Traditional baubles are an essential for every bride’s trousseau, but you should be careful of the ones that you choose. Stay away from buying into current “trends” because this will result in your jewellery collection becoming out-dated faster than it should. Instead, opt for timeless pieces that will stay classic for years to come – kundan jewellery is always a good bet, as are pearly pieces.

A Range of Lingerie

It goes without saying that your trousseau must contain some sexy lingerie, but I also believe that you should pick up a wide range of underwear to suit every occasion. Think about investing in different styles and cuts of brassieres and panties so that you have something that works well with every ensemble. Shape-wear is a great addition to the collection, too!

A Neutral Eye Shadow Palette

If there is one makeup product that you invest in for your trousseau, please, please, PLEASE let that product be an eye shadow palette with a bunch of neutral shades like gold, bronze, nude, soft pink and the works. Look for a palette that offers a range of matte and shimmer shades for maximum utility. Any of the Naked Palettes by Urban Decay are perfect, but there are a host of cheaper options available, too. Neutral shades of eye shadow can be worn with pretty much anything and are an easy way to infuse some elegance into your look. You can’t go wrong with this one!

Jabong’s Awesome September Issue of The Juice

Jabong Juice Magazine Review: September 2015 Issue with Parineeti Chopra as Cover Girl

Hi Folks!

Guess what? Jabong’s September Issue of The Juice is out with Parineeti Chopra on the cover in a completely new avatar! For those of you who don’t know, The Juice is this chic, fashion magazine created by Jabong which always has great content. I love how it offers a fresh take on trending styles and has great scoops on what’s going on in the fashion industry.

So I was sipping on my coffee, engrossed in this issue, when I realized something – Jabong has managed to introduce a very exciting, international quality to the magazine’s overall design and publication. I mean look at The Juice cover girl Parineeti Chopra’s styling itself; she looks gorgeous in this fusion outfit of black cut-offs and a fringe-top, paired with a classy, ethnic summer jacket. Just from the cover I could tell that I’m going to be borrowing many wardrobe ideas from this month’s issue!

Another piece I really enjoyed in The Juice this time was the Blogger Style section – it was covered well, and really quite interesting. The Babumoshai photo essay was extremely entertaining too – kudos to whoever came up with that. Of course, what I inspected most intently was the Fall edit that Jabong added in towards the end – really ladies, some great, fun styles there that will surely be a hit with young divas!

And this is what I like best about The Juice. Issue after issue, they come up with the most engaging content which not just has fashion and beauty tips, but valuable stories, tech-talk, gripping features and more as well. You have to read it to realize what a wacky charm it has. You can access The Juice online, on iOS and Android too. I prefer flipping through the print copy more though. So as you can tell, I’m a very satisfied follower of The Juice and can’t wait for the next issue to come out already! Hope you all enjoy it as much as I do.

For all those interested in checking the magazine out, here is the link to their digital version http://www.jabong.com/magazine/

How to Rock the Boho Chic Look

The boho chic look is the most comforting fashion choice for the wild and free-spirited souls. That’s because it is all about individuality, a self-determined sense of style and no concern of the fashion police.

While to some people, boho stylistics is simply second nature. If you are like me, however, you have often admired women in fun, quirky outfits from a distance and wished you could pull that ensemble off. Well, not to worry. Even if going bohemian isn’t your natural style, you could want to and should experiment with it, especially if the occasion demands so.

Here are some ways in which you can nail the boho look perfectly.

The Clothes:

If you are a classicist otherwise, when trying this look, you can go beyond your comfort zone. Beautiful prints and gingham fabrics in warm colours (which is the typical boho palette) shall look great. If your outfit is a two-piece ensemble, let one item be print galore with the other being one-tonal and plain.
Layering is a very important part of the boho regime, so whip out those scarves, stoles, summer jackets and skirt-legging-combos. However, do not go over-board here either. A couple of layers provide much dimension to the outfit while still being elegant.
Do not be under the misconception that boho means loose, ill-fitted clothing. The bohemian philosophy is one of comfort and thus there are few figure-hugging tight clothes worn with it. But that does not mean you consciously go for clothing that is oversized – simply find something comfy and fuss-free.
When attempting boho, feel free to go in for alternate clothing of the kind that would otherwise be tricky to pull off. Funky pyjamas, jodhpurs, asymmetrical tops and dresses, funny text-tees, and similar unconventional pieces will all complement this look.

The Footwear

Again, there are no rules here, other than that your footwear should be comfortable.
Flat sandals and chappals are often staples in boho outfits. Go in for those in interesting colors or ones that have unique detailing. Remember, bohemian does not mean shabby – wearing your bathroom slippers, though perhaps most acceptable with this look, is not a requisite.
Loafers and sneakers with quirky patterns will also look good.
If it is winter season, boots with leggings over, are also so boho chic, especially if the leggings are very colourful.

The Accessories

Nothing says boho like a bunch of accessories dazzling up an outfit in full measure. Actually, more than a bunch – this look can never have one too many.
Chunky, beady neckpieces of different length, in varied colours look wonderful.
Earrings with unusual motifs also look great. Many boho divas sport ethnic jewellery designs with western wear creating lovely visual contrasts.
Bangles and wrist look super-trendy with this look as well.
Other extras like hair accessories, bandanas, brooches, badges, caps, funky sunglasses and anything else you can think of can be easily fit into such an ensemble.
The only thing to avoid is wearing so many accessories that they come in the way of your movement and comfort.

Hair and Makeup

The hair with this look could be styled just about anyway.
As long as there is volume and texture, anything works – loose waves and curls, messy up-dos, hasty ponies, even braids. If you are going for something simpler like straight hair let down, adding dimension using hair accessories would be recommended.
With makeup, try and be slightly extremist – “all or nothing” is the perfect approach.
If you’re going all out, you could try popping lip colours or dramatic, colourful eye-makeup. Make sure the effect is striking yet classy; avoid highlighting both the eyes and lips in an over-the-top fashion – let one feature stand out.
If you prefer to go the barely-there way with makeup, slap on some tinted lip-balm and thin liner on the upper lash; you’re aiming for a more natural look, but you shouldn’t look washed out.

Follow these tips for a first-time boho outing and once you’re confident with all the experimentation, you can try out more bold outfits.

5 Tips for Buying Your Bridal Outfit

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

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

Start Early

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

Work With a Budget in Mind

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

Buy Your Jewellery In Tandem

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

Know What You Want

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

Does it fit you today?

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

Super-Chic and Always Crowded – M-Block Market, Greater Kailash 1

All Delhites have heard of, if not explored the popular main market of Greater Kailash Part I. A hub of shopping, yummy food and lively banter, it is one of those few street markets, aka non-air-conditioned retail spaces- where you will brave the weather to enjoy the pleasing environs. And pleasing they are no doubt, with a fine mix of branded stores and street stalls at which to empty your wallets. If you are visiting for the first time, this rectangular concrete mini-jungle (oh, wait, there’s a small park in its midst) there are some things you need to know:

• The market may overwhelm you with its abundance of buying options. Don’t worry, I’ll help you with that soon.
• The street stall owners are very astute and can sense naive, non-hagglers from a mile away. So beware!
• All big food chains, from Starbucks to Burger King have outlets here. But these you can visit anywhere. Go in for local specialties instead like the famous “Aunty ke momos” or Prince Paan’s flavoured treats.
• The market it always crowded. Always! But on all evenings and the weekend, you will literally be rubbing shoulders with excited shoppers. So mornings, past 12pm actually (these GK people love their sleep), is the time to visit if you are on a serious shopping excursion.
• There are a couple of rather temperamental ATMs here. It would be a good idea for you to stock up on cash, especially if you are up for street shopping.

Well, these are the basics you need to know. Now the important stuff – what are the best shops that all divas must visit? I have to warn you though, the list that follows does not mention any of the big brands – you obviously need no help there. My focus is the lesser-known shops where you can get yourself a good deal.

Pret:
This is like a boutique-style-street-stall. What sets it apart from other shops is that it has a good collection of fashionable clothes (both casual and party wear) but not the typical stuff you get at street stalls. Buy from here and you are not at risk of spotting the same dress on another female while on a round of M-Block market itself (yes, that may happen if you buy from a street-stall). The USP of this shop is that the prices are good (almost as low as the clothes outside) not too expensive ordinarily and no short of steal-deals during sales.
Address: M-21, Lower Ground, M Block Market, Greater Kailash I, Delhi

Madame:
If you want to shop for Indian clothes, and slightly dressy ones at that, this is where you should go. Madame has a good collection of ethnic clothes as well as jewellery and accessories, so it’s your one-stop-shop for Indian occasion-wear. The prices are decent as well, lower than the likes of Meena Bazaar.
Address: M1-B, M Block Market, Greater Kailash I, Delhi

Goyal Stores:
For cosmetics, this is the one store which will offer the widest possible range, including those international budget brands like Boots, Jergens, etc and also high-end perfumes at slightly discounted prices. Plus, the latest products by all common brands like Lakme, Colorbar, etc, find their way to the counters here very quickly. The staff is very helpful and will make useful suggestions in a way that isn’t bothersome in the least.
Address: M2, M Block Market, Greater Kailash I, Delhi

Devil’z Tattoos:
M-Block is also the hub of all things hip and wild. You want a good, safe, permanent tattoo, this is where you go in Delhi. Though there are several popular tattoo parlours in this market, many claim that Devil’z Tattoos is the best in Delhi (having got two tattoos done here personally, I have no reason to doubt those claims). Do book an appointment in advance though – there’s a big rush here, especially on weekends.
Address: M-53, M Block Market, Greater Kailash I, Delhi

Siloffer:
While Devilz’ is for tattoos, the best piercings happen at Siloffer. It is one of the oldest, most famous piercing salons in Delhi, with experienced staff to puncture holes in your skin as desired (I got three-sets of ear piercings done from this place and can hence vouch for its quality service). They have a huge range of silver and marcasite jewellery as well, though the prices are slightly inflated, as compared to those at other markets.
Address: M-51, M Block Market, Greater Kailash I, Delhi

Back-side Street Stall:
As far as the clothes’ stalls go, there are at least over 15 of them in M-Block. They sell the latest must-haves of street fashion – trendy tops, dresses, suits, jumpsuits and more. There is one which sells innerwear and lingerie as well. However, as mentioned above, many a times, they keep very common styles which are available at every other vendor, only at a higher price than those at Lajpat Nagar or Sarojini, given the up-scale environment around. So go to the street vendor opposite the car-park-entrance and next to Bengal Sweets (at that end of the market where famous eatery Brown Sugar is). He has a large collection with several pieces you won’t spot everywhere. You will have to browse through stacks of merchandise but will end up picking up a few items for sure. Remember to bargain for a good deal.
Address: Well, it’s a street stall!

Laxmi Store:
If you want to buy lingerie, nightwear or beachwear even, head to Laxmi Store which is a basement shop, right next to The Body Shop outlet. It has all the regular budget brands such as Lovable and Enamor, as well as mid-range ones like Amante, Triumph and Bwitch. You won’t get the likes of La Senza and VS here, but those you’re more likely to find in malls anyway. They have, of late, also stared stocking sari blouses here.
Address: M-34 Basement, M Block Market, Greater Kailash I, Delhi

So these are some insights into my favourite Delhi market (after Select City Walk of course. But then again, that’s a mall, so this is #1 Market for me). If you are visiting the city, do drop by!

Amazon India Fashion Week 2015 #Day 5, March 29

The Grand Finale of the AIFW 2015 brought the five-day fashion extravaganza to an end with quite a spectacular show. A combination of industry A-listers and their creations, good music and theatrics, and a lively, excitable audience made this event a wonderful tribute to Indian Fashion Week’s 25^th Anniversary. Here’s the scoop on all that went down on day 5 of the AIFW 2015:

Style Fiesta

The last day of AIFW 2015 passed in anticipation of the Grand Finale event that was to take place in the evening. The show began with Amalraj Sengupta unveiling his ‘I am Alive’ collection which showcased khadi, silk and cotton fabrics in unconventional forms. Sneha Arora’s line, which played with prints and patterns to produce some fun, quirky outfits was well-received as well. The final collection of the season was Ashima-Leena’s colourful, bold line which redefined bohemian glamour in mesmerizing ways. Last to come was the Grand Finale show entitled ‘Crafts of India’; it brought together 25 of India’s leading designers to exhibit a series of outfits that represented their interpretation of Indian arts and culture. The perfect conclusion to a successful fashion event, this day will go down as a landmark moment in Indian Fashion history.

Magical Moments

India’s top 25 designers came together with the likes of Padamshree winners Ritu Kumar and Wendell Rodricks, and other top designers such as Manish Malhotra, Anamika Khanna, Tarun Tahilani, JJ Valaya, Sabyasachi Mukherjee and Varun Bahl in participation.
Instrumental music and dhol beats played in the background as the designers’ creations sashayed down the ramp.
Ritu Kumar delighted the industry with her new designs which were much awaited since here two-year-long absence from the popular ramps.
Rohit Bal broke into an impromptu jig when taking the final bow, driving the audience wild.
The 90s ramp-queen Nyonika Chatterjee walked down the ramp in Sabyasachi’s stunning outfit which was a special creation for his favourite muse.

One of the most dazzling Grand Finale’s in the history of Indian fashion, the AIFW 2015 came to a close with much marvellous pomp and show. Ah, another major glamour event gone by!

Amazon India Fashion Week 2015 #Day 1, March 25

It’s that time of the year when the Indian fashion industry and its passionate followers simply can’t seem to catch a break (in a good way, of course). We were still reeling from the spectacular exhibits of the LFW 2015, when in came the Amazon India Fashion Week to wow us again.

In case you are slightly lost, never having heard of this event before, don’t worry your pretty heads; basically, what has been called the Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week for almost a decade now, is going to be called the Amazon India Fashion Week henceforth. The FDCI has switched its title sponsor roping in one of India’s largest e-commerce portals as its chief brand partner.

The AIFW 2015 presented a series of stunning Autumn-Winter collections, with over 100 designers in participation. Held in Hall No. 12 of Delhi’s iconic Pragati Maidan, this five-day-long event added to the capital’s love for high couture. Let’s have a look at what the opening day – March 25 – had in store for the attendees:

Get, Set, Go!

The first day of AIFW 2015, set the ball rolling for the oncoming week of absolute fabulousness with its impressive ramps, dramatic theatrics and LED lighting. Numerous well-acclaimed as well as upcoming designers presented creations that were no short of outstanding. The opening show – Rajesh Pratap Singh’s hospital-themed collection – was one of those that create fashion history. Following this were collections by Nikasha, Payal Singhal, Kavita Bhatia and Anju Modi. The day ended with the keenly awaited collection by JJ Valaya and the unveiling of Amazon’s new e-book reader. It was a day that shall be remembered as one of the most successful opening events in recent times.

A Quick Glance at the Show’s Best

One just cannot get past the fascinating quality of Rajesh Pratap Singh’s opening act. Replete with a hospital-like beds, surgical lights and IV bags even, his collection was a tribute to his own familial roots in the medical world. World War II-inspired skirts, gum-coated fabrics and oxford heels dominated his designs.
While Singh’s collection was quirky and attention-grabbing, Payal Singhal’s heavily embellished crop-tops, loose-pants and lehengas presented a more classic, sophisticated aesthetic experience.
Anju Modi’s ‘How to Write a Fairytale’ was another subtle, though slightly whimsical collection showcasing asymmetrical silhouettes, retro patterns and fantasy-themed embroidery. It received glowing reviews, having made quite a mark in the glamour world.
The most talked-about designer of the evening was undeniably JJ Valaya. His ‘’The Bolshoi Bazaar’ collection fused Indian styles with Russian embroidery and heavy accessorizing, to produce very dramatic outfits. Both the menswear as well as womenswear was characterized by a sense of youth, tradition and luxury.
Perhaps the most “aw”-worthy moment of all times, the Kindle unveiling was accomplished by a group of tiny girls dressed as Russian dolls. They each carried the new e-book reader displaying the alphabets of Valaya’s show name glowing on the screen. What an adorable end to the wonderful day!

So that’s what happened on the grand opening day of the AIFW 2015. Stay tuned for more updates!

The Dos and Donts of Wearing A Sari

To my mind, nothing is sexier than a well-draped sari. The six yards of cloth, when styled with care, exudes elegance like no other piece does. Having said that, this ensemble is all about paying attention to the details. If you fail to do so, the beauty of the sari will turn to shambles. The next time you decide to sport a sophisticated sari on a special occasion, keep these nifty dos and don’ts in mind to avoid a fashion faux pas or worse.

Do Experiment With Different Draping Styles

Wearing a sari for the first time can be intimidating. You are constantly worried about your pleats falling out and your pallu flying all over the place, amongst other things. Once you are comfortable and confident in a sari, you should definitely explore different styles of draping to up the ante. I love the butterfly style, which is great for showing off your toned tummy, and the lehenga style, which adds a celebratory vibe to the look.

Don’t Wear Your Sari Too Low

The biggest mistake that many people make when sporting a sari is tying their petticoat too low, or not tying it tightly enough, which results in it falling over the course of the night. This takes away from the entire sophistication of the ensemble. The beauty of a sari is that it shows subtle slivers of skin without being in-your-face about it. Ladies, let the beautiful garment do its job. Simply put, saris that are draped too low are eyesores. Avoid this no-no at all cost.

Do Think About Your Accessories

Have no doubt that saris are a fashion statement in their own right; however, adding an embellishment or two can really take your outfit to the next level. The key to accessorizing this look is to focus on pieces that do not take away from the glamour of the sari, but add to it. If you are wearing a heavily embroidered sari, stick to simple earrings and a clutch that matches the base colour of the garment. Simpler saris can be spiced up with a bold statement necklace or sparkly earrings. Spend some time thinking about how you would like to accessorize to avoid a haphazard look.

Do Not Allow Any Embarrassing Peek-A-Boos

Unless you are an expert (and to be honest, most of us are not), you are bound to use some helping tools like safety pins and double-sided tape to keep your sari in place throughout the night. It is never – I repeat, never – okay for these titbits to show. When draping your sari, make sure that you conceal all of the safety pins to avoid any mortifying moments like the time that Kareena Kapoor sported a black blouse with a safety pin sticking out of it. Sneak peaks of your bra straps are really not cool either!

With this advice in your mind, having an absolute blast whilst styling and wearing your sari. Stick a broad smile on your face and you will be ready to take the night by a storm!

The Lakme Fashion Week Diaries #Day 5, March 21

The fourth day of the Lakme Fashion Week 2015 was the most exciting of all with a range of mesmerizing collections gracing the ramp. It was a day of continual fashion successes with each designer bringing something new, striking and admirable to the mix. Here’s what you need to know about day four of LWF 2015:

Variety is the Spice of LFW

Each collection was so distinctive and unique that the versatility of the Indian fashion industry was vividly on display. The show began with a bridal collection – “The Royal Courtyard” by Anushree Redd and the rich, ethnic accents glimpsed here were similarly exploited in the designs by Kanikka Salluja and Payal Singhal, modelled later that day. Several designers such as Arpita Mehta, Rimi Nayak and Surya Sarkar presented mono-chromatic collections which experimented with styles and fabrics, albeit in the same colour. There was snazzy, wild eclecticism as well, brought in with the collections by Ken Ferns, Urvashi Joneja and the Pankaj and Nidhi collection by Omtex. This evening was undeniably a celebration of the diversity in Indian aesthetic sensibilities.

Special Mentions

While all designers won much applause from the enthralled audience, some collections made a special mark. Anushree Reddy’s bridal-wear, with its traditional silhouettes and soft, feminine fabrics was quite a hit. Rimi Nayak’s “Unchartered Land” which presented a commendable fusion of varied styles in shades of blue was well-appreciated too. Nishka Lulla’s fuss-free-fashion mantra, encapsulated in the showcased summer-wear is sure to define this season’s wardrobe essentials. Finally, Parul Bhargava’s “Midnight in Paris” which lit up the Jabong stage with elegant, timeless outfits, created a subtle yet unforgettable stir.

The Celebs Spotted

On this day, there were just too many celebs going about, though it was the clothes that actually took centre-stage. The earliest celebrity spottings included Ileana D’Cruz and Anajana Sukhani who walked the ramp for Anushree Reddy and Anjali Patel Mehta respectively. Kalki Koechlin was the showstopper for Nishka Lulla, while Neha Dhupia modelled for Sonu Dharnidharka. The most impressive however, was Lolo aka Bollywood diva Karishma Kapoor’s appearance in Neha Agarwal’s show. And last but not the least, Kunal Rawal’s collection got an extra dose of sizzle with Arjun Kapoor and Shahid Kapoor donning the designer’s outfits. This was one star-studded evening, teeming with celebs!

While this is all for day 5, the grand finale is yet to come. Keep watching for the scoop on Day 6 of LFW 2015!