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Five Handbag Essentials For Every Girl

An outfit is never complete without the ultimate arm candy to finish it off. Today, handbags come in all shapes, colours and sizes so there is always something to suit your every need and whim. I must confess that for the longest while, I was guilty of carrying my entire world within my bag. I justified this with “what-if” scenarios with a near-zero probability of occurrence. I would often find myself with a huge pile of inessentials and without the critical things that I needed the most. Over the years, I have gotten better at managing my compulsive habit and am as comfortable with a teeny clutch as I am with a good old tote. When it comes to handbags, these are my five essentials that I never leave the house without:

Perfume

I firmly believe that smelling good is an integral part of grooming. Contrary to what many ladies might believe, perfume and deodorants are not substitutes for one another. In fact, both are essential. In my handbag, you will always a small bottle of perfume. I love to keep the samples that you often receive at stores, as they are the perfect size for small coin purses and clutches.

Lip Balm

Dry, crusty lips are simply not a good look on anybody. Even the best of lipsticks cannot hide the telling signs of poor lip care, which is why I always carry a trusty lip balm in my purse at all times. I would recommend a non-scented and non-coloured lip balm as your handbag essential, so that it does not interfere with any lip makeup that you might be wearing.

Sunglasses

A pair of glamorous sunglasses is a true saviour. You should always have a pair in your handbag at any given point of time to help you cover your eyes on those days where you have not slept enough and the dark circles are showing, or those mornings where you simply cannot be bothered with intense eye makeup. For my handbag, I love classics styles like aviators that work well with every ensemble.

Breath Mint

Stale breath is the biggest faux pas that a woman can make. No matter how stylish your outfit is and how perfect your makeup is, bad breath has the potential to ruin it all. To make sure that you are never caught off guard, keep a box of mints in your bag at all times.

Notebook

I absolutely hate those times when I have a brilliant idea or remember something that I have to do, only to find that I have nowhere to write it down. After being caught without paper and pen a few times, I vowed to always keep a notebook with me wherever I go. My writing pads range from small scribble pads to large books, but you will never find me without paper and a writing instrument.

Image Credits

http://www.styleround.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/Touch-of-Pink-Lacoste-1024×1024.jpg

Worth the Hype? Maybelline Baby Lips

http://www.ray-ban.com/ireland/customise/rb-3025-aviator-metal-sunglasses
http://www.talkingretail.com/tag/sugar-mints-and-gum/
http://theborrowedabode.com/category/handmade-gifts/page/2/

5 Shoes Every Girl Must Own

As shoemaker extraordinaire Christian Louboutin once said, “Shoes transform your body language. They lift you physically and emotionally.” Ladies, I could not agree more! A good pair of shoes never fails to make me feel like a superstar, but like most of us, I am often guilty of buying footwear that I don’t really need or end up wearing. Lately, I have come to the realisation that like jewellery, it is absolutely essential to garner the staples in your shoe collection before you begin to expand it. So, what are the shoes that every girl must own? The answer lies in the paragraphs that follow!

Classic Pumps

Pumps are the greatest pick-me-up of all time and you certainly cannot go wrong with a pair of these beauties in a classic shade like black, red or navy blue. Personally, I prefer patent pumps because they instantly ramp up the glamour factor in any outfit and tend to last much longer than their suede cousins. The best part about classic pumps is that they can be worn with anything under the sun and can easily take you from day to night.

Beautiful Ballet Flats

I love my high heels as much as the next girl, but I definitely cannot prance around in them all-day and everyday. For the days that my feet need to relax, you will find me donning a pair chic ballet flats that add the right amount of sophistication to any look. The fact that ballet flats are crazy comfortable is simply the cherry on the top. With so many styles and colours available, you cannot go wrong.

Riding Boots

I simply cannot imagine life without my trusty pair of riding boots. Perfection is a pair of distress jeans tucked into worn out riding boots and a cable knit sweater to boot – the perfect outfit for autumn. I have a pair of sleek black riding boots because they match perfectly with my everyday handbag and belt, but I have seen some beautiful boots in chestnut and tan, too. Riding boots are investment pieces that will last for years so do not be afraid to splurge on these babies.

Sandals

Summer is fast approaching and what better way to show off your cute pedicure than with a pair of open-toed sandals? This style of shoe is an absolute summer essential and I cannot live without a pair of classy flat sandals when I am travelling, either. Pick up a snazzy pair with embellishments for some extra oomph!

Casual Sneakers

For those days when you are feeling edgy and ultra badass, a pair of casual sneakers is definitely the way to go. These can be anything from Converse to Vans to wedge sneakers a la Isabel Marant but whatever you do, your shoe collection will not be complete without them! Casual sneakers are all about looking effortlessly cool. Lately, I have been wearing my sneakers with denim cut-off shorts and a basic white V-neck. Love, love, LOVE!

Summertime Accessories to keep you Cool and Chic

The summer season, as much as I love it, takes quite a toll on one’s skin and body. From unsightly tan lines to sweating and more, the heat can leave our glamorous selves in quite a state.

But there’s no need to worry; there are few things that can’t be fixed in the fashion world. Summer woes can be overcome with some intelligent accessorizing and though you’ll still feel the burn (not in the good calorie-shedding way), at least you’ll be looking your best!

In keeping with this spirit, these should be your go-to accessories this season:

Hats, Caps and Visors

Oooh! Now who doesn’t wish there was a suitable occasion to rock some fancy head-wear. Wellladies, this is the time and everywhere sunny is the place. As long as you are going to be outdoors, hats, caps and visors will be great accessories – shading your face from the sun and giving your outfit a bold, quirky edge. Pretty, dainty hats would be suitable for official or formal events while caps are best for casual outings. Visors would be great as part of sportswear, but if you are confident and experimental, they’ll would go with just about any outfit.

Clips and Headbands

Tame your lovely locks and prevent facial sweating by putting some clips and headbands to good use. Colourful clutchers, cutesy hair-bands and funky scrunchies will hold your hair in place and keep it away from your neck region. Bobby pins in vibrant shades, neon and patterns clips and pretty headbands will keep the tresses in front in check. So wear them hair accessories when you step out – remain cool and calm as the warm wind assaults you.

Sunglasses

Well, this is a little too obvious but needed to be included – just out of respect. Sunglasses are the single, most vital element of summer accessorizing and every dame worth her makeup has to have a couple of them. This season, retro shades have been trending high so cat-eyes and round shades are the way to go. However, if you’re a classicist and not-too-flashy, the wayfarers, aviators and bug-eyes are perfect for you.

Sports Watches

Ever wondered when you’ll be able to wear that expensive, rubber-strap watch you bought on impulse? Or have been wanting to buy for a while? Summer is time to whip such watches out and strut about in complete comfort. Sweat resistant and very trendy, sports watches will not chafe the skin or cause as much sweating as your regular leather watch does.

Anklets

Feel like it’s too hot to wear any jewellery? Or worse yet, have a tendency to develop rashes on wearing neckpieces and rings? Don’t be sad, anklets are your solution. Wear delicate ankle-bracelets on either both or one of your feet to make quite a style statement while also avoiding any discomfort. They look wonderful and feel fine – what more could you want, in this blazing summer season?

Totes

In terms of handbags, totes are summer’s best friend. Huge enough to fit in all the season’s essentials, these bulky, slouchy wonders are a life saver. From your sunscreen, water bottle, sunglasses, wet wipes and body mist to makeup, hairbrushes and more – it’ll all fit in without any fuss. So next time you go out in the heat, take out your trusty tote and carry your world around.

When it’s this hot outside, a diva’s got to have her tools ready. Stock up on these accessories and have a wonderful summer!

Image Credits

http://www.cosmopolitan.com/style-beauty/fashion/advice/g1418/summer-sun-hat-styles/

Flowers In Her Hair

http://frenchbulldoglove.com/products/summer-shades-french-bulldog-tote-bag-cream
http://fashionzwomen.com/stylish-men-women-spring-summer-sunglasses-2015/
http://www.aliexpress.com/store/product/2013-Fashion-hot-selling-metal-men-s-and-women-s-watches-ladies-sports-watch-lovers-gifes/219972_955680166.html
http://www.firwelcrafts.co.uk/anklet-daisy-butterfly.html

5 Kinds of Belts You Must Own

“Belts distract the eye from a bloated tummy, a heavy-set upper body and all manner of sins. They can be a superb way to update your wardrobe without breaking the bank, and there’s no reason to stop wearing them, ever!”

Well, Twiggy said it all – belts are just so versatile, useful and affordable; a rare combination in the long list of fashion accessories. And there is a huge variety of belts out there, which can jazz up all outfits with much ease.

Having said that, obviously, you can’t have them all (sigh). So you should have at least have one each of all the staple styles that are chic and trending. Here’s a list of five belts every diva must own:

The Oversized Belt

These are statement making accessories that you can whip out to make any ensemble a red-carpet look. Not only are they much in vogue these days (Paris Fall Fashion Week 2015, hello!), oversized belts serve a great purpose – they cinch the waist, allowing you a more feminine silhouette. So play up those curves by teaming an oversized belt with dresses, gowns, kaftans even.

The Obi Belt

Spring Fashion charts for 2015 place Obi Belts in its top ranks. Kimono inspired cloth belts, Obis are made of satin, silk and similar soft materials. These look wonderful on an outfit with much layering, with their knotted appearance adding more dimension. And that’s not all, since they do not have holes and loops, you can tie them as tightly or loosely as you like! Lifesavers.

The Thin Belt

Ah, these slim beauties! Thin belts are subtle but incredibly chic. They add grace and softness to outfits by virtue of their delicate appearance. Great for wearing with skirts/trousers and tucked in shirts, thin belts are staples for the office-going fashionista. Casually worn, they can be paired with almost any outfit.

The Metallic Belt

High-street fashion alert! Metallic belts are uber-chic and extremely eye-catching. With an all-metal casing and shiny hue, these have the effect of drawing all attention to the waist. When wearing these, make sure you get the right size for tightly worn metallic belts tend to cause bulges. But if worn correctly, these are by far the most glamorous of all belts.

The Fancy Buckled Belt

Who doesn’t want a little over-the-top effect every once in a while? Especially on those days when you don’t want to put in too much effort, a belt with a fancy buckle can come to the rescue. Find one that is the right amount of blingy/strinking/jazzy for you and let it be your go-to accessory when you’re lazy. Be it a simple jeans-shirt combo or lovely cocktail dress, your overall look can be enhanced further with the big buckle!

Get a hold of each of these belt varieties – you will find yourself having many more ensembles in your closet that look amazing. And all thanks to a simple belt!

5 Ways to Wear T-Shirts in Style

Everyone owns T-shirts for sometimes we just want to keep things casual. But that doesn’t mean you can’t look fabulous – simple can be so chic, if only you fashion it right. So here are some ways in which you can wear your fuss-free T-shirts and still look like a star.

Carelessly Tucked In

Nothing screams awesomeness louder than a tucked-in tee which looks oh-so-uncaringly done. This carefully put-together look is a wonderful combination of boho sensibility and diva mentality. Leave part of your shirt hanging out, either at the center-front, front-side, side or back, while tucking the rest into your jeans/skirt/shorts. Accessorize minimally and get ready to wow everyone.

Knot on the Side

This is the perfect way to style your longer, looser t-shirts which just seem to hang on you otherwise. After putting the shirt on, gather it on either the left or right side of your waist, and knot it tightly. This will immediately fit the shirt to your frame and if you like, you can make the knot a little above the waist, so it looks somewhat like a crop top. Effortlessly runway ready!

Layered Look

Another great way to glamorise the boring tee is wearing it under a button-down shirt. Leave either few or all of the shirt buttons open, going for the layered effect. Play with colours and textures to add depth, though the best t-shirt pairings are with denim and sheer shirts.

Like a Belted Tunic

Oversized tees can be made even cuter and chicer with nothing more than a thin belt. Cinch the t-shirt with a belt at the waist and tease out fabric from some portions to hang over it. Let your lowers be form-hugging such as jeans or fitted skirts, so the overall look is balanced. Avoid accessorizing further for you’ll already be looking stunning!

DIY Off-Shoulder

This may require some cutting and snipping so only use shirts that aren’t too expensive. Cut away a diagonal section of your t-shirt’s neck region so that the should-top of one side is removed. Then wear the shirt with a contrasting bra beneath so the showing strap adds looks brilliant as well. Rock the DIY-fashionista look!

How To Make Your High Heels Hurt Less

Designer extraordinaire Brian Atwood once said, “Superwomen do it in high heels.” As inspiring as that line is, the painful truth is that high heels can be a rather uncomfortable and agonizing experience for many women. In fact, I know several superwomen who have sworn off high heels because they would rather save their feet from the awful pain that comes with wearing stilettos. Over the years, I have come to realise that there are ways to make the experience less painful.

For starters, ensure that your stilettos are the right size. This might sound obvious, but most foot problems are aggravated because your shoes are simply too small or too large for your feet. It does not matter how cute the heels are – if you cannot find them in your size, do not wear them! Interestingly enough, our foot size tends to change as we grow older so it is important that you get your size checked regularly and especially before shoe shopping.

After snagging the perfect pair of heels, you must “break” into them before you wear them outside of the house. Wear your heels around the house for a few minutes every day before you decide to wear them outside. It is also a great idea to have your shoes stretched out, if you can. Most professional cobblers can do this for a small sum of money. If you do not have access to a cobbler, you can also purchase wooden stretchers from most local department stores. Trust me when I tell you that this step can make all the difference!

Now, the biggest problem with most high heels is that they do not come with enough padding to support your foot. More often than not, this is the root cause of your discomfort. It is not always possible to buy stilettos that come with padding, but you can definitely buy some shoe cushions or gel inserts at great prices!

When you come home from a long day or night in high heels, remember to stretch your feet out. Better yet, soak them in a tub of warm water for ten minutes and just wiggle your toes to get the blood flowing through your feet. Also remember to massage your calf muscles because they tend to take the brunt when you wear high heels.

Finally, always remember that you should switch things up. There is enough science to prove that wearing high heels on a prolonged basis does not do a world of good to your overall health. Remember to wear flats from time to time and if you really crave some extra height, try wedges once in a while. Your feet need a break, ladies!

Photo Credit: 1 / 2 / 3 / 4

Five Quick and Easy DIY Face Masks

Shop-bought face masks can be super expensive and full of all sorts of chemicals and unnatural ingredients. When it comes to treating our skin, natural is, of course, always best. If you’re looking for the most natural, skin-sensitive and cost-effective option for your face mask, it’s always better to do it yourself. Of course, it can be hard to know where to start, and what kind of face mask is best for your skin type, so we’ve done the hard work for you and researched and found the best five DIY face masks for the five most common skin types. All you have to do is make and apply the mask and watch your skin transform.

Oily Skin – Egg White Mask
Mix an egg white or two with the juice of one lemon and blend for about a minute to thicken the mixture enough to apply it to your face. Once applied, leave for 15 minutes before washing off with luke-warm water.
The egg white acts as a tightening agent, drawing out excess oil from your skin and closing those pesky pores that seep oil.

Dry Skin – Avocado Mask
Mash half an avocado, and mix with one teaspoon of runny honey and one teaspoon of rosewater. Once applied, leave to dry for 15 minutes and then rinse with warm water. For extra-dry skin, use olive oil as a substitute for the rose water.
The avocado is, quite simply, the god of all kitchen ingredients. Full of good fats, it is the ultimate creamy delicious moisturiser.

Sensitive Skin – Yogurt Mask
Mix one cup of unflavoured yogurt and simply apply to skin. Leave for 20 minutes before rinsing off with warm water.
For those with sensitive skin, the acid in the yogurt works gently to tighten the skin. It will also lighten any facial hair and follicles you may have, which is a great way to mask those pesky hairy lips that are especially hard to treat for those of us with sensitive skin.

Acne-Prone Skin – Green Clay Mask
Mix 2 tablespoons of green clay powder with 2 tablespoons of water. Add a few drop of rosemary oil and mix until you form a thick paste. Apply the mask and leave for 15 minutes before washing off with warm water and a flannel.
The clay reacts with any impurities in the skin, drawing them out and neutralising them. Just make sure you use a good toner and moisturise after using this face mask, as it can leave your skin feeling dry which will only result in your skin producing more oil and making it more prone to breakouts.

Dull Skin – Banana Mask
Mash two medium bananas and mix with 2 tablespoons of runny honey. Apply the mask and leave for 10 minutes before massaging it into the face for another 5 minutes, the rinse off with warm water.
The banana is choc-full of potassium, which will leave your skin looking and feeling radiant. The honey adds the extra glow, and the massaging process stimulates the blood flow in the skin, creating further radiance. With such a cheap and easy recipe, you need never have dull skin again.

Unique Beauty Treatments from Around the World

I’ll begin by reiterating that vanity is fair. Being concerned with how you look is a natural impulse and we women are (in)famous for investing much time and energy in looking our best.

But sometimes, do you too come across some beauty treatments that seem utterly absurd? It happens with me a lot, especially since I’m always on a look out for new grooming techniques to try and assess.

There is a host of beauty regimens specific to different cultures which are locally practised but not widely known. By my own experience, some of these happen to be extremely effective, infused with ancient wisdom as they are.

Here is a list of such strange beauty treatments from around the world that you can try. You may be surprised by the wonders they work – much more helpful than chemical treatments and cosmetic products!

Asian Spoon Massage

This is a technique that involves using a ceramic or glass-based Asian spoon and massaging the contours of your face with it. It is supposed to reduce bloating and puffiness of the face, alongside adding a healthy sheen and glow. There are several instructive videos online that you can refer to, so as to learn the proper way of giving your face an Asian spoon massage. Trust me, it works. My face seemed more sculpted with just one week of massage!

Sound Baths

Bathing in sound, bizarre as it sounds, is what this is all about. A medley of sounds and vibrations produced by gongs and bowls is played while the client lies on a flat floor in a comfortable position. The experience is supposed to be extremely soothing, which de-stresses the mind, improves sleep and regulates energy levels. Though it is a service offered exclusively in some of the most expensive spas around the world, there are several tracks and recordings available online. Instead of your next mediation session, unwind with a sound bath instead!

Chocolate Baths/Facials/Spas

Now we all love to eat chocolate and have gone in for chocolate waxing at some point in time. But leading spas in the US offer a variety of treatments which use pure chocolate to nourish the skin and body. Rich in antioxidants and having softening properties, chocolate is a good pack for the skin. You could melt some cooking chocolate at home and apply it to your face (or even body, if you have enough quantity) when lukewarm and wait for it to dry. Then scrub it off with water and voila! Healthy, glowing skin! But don’t cheat and lick any of your chocolate pack off your face (you know it could happen!)

Fish Pedicures

This is a treatment that has become very popular in the past few years. A technique of Turkish origin, the use of garra rufa fish, better known as “doctor fish”, to refine skin texture and quality, has been quite the rage in the beauty industry. These tiny little fish nibble on the skin immersed in water, thereby nibbling off all the dead skin. Typically, the experience is not painful but just slightly odd. Unfortunately, fish pedicures can’t be self-performed so you’ll have to visit a spa/massage parlour for this one.

Butter Massage

The Ethiopian butter massage is a true mindblower. It is basically meant to tighten up weak skin and muscles of a woman’s vagina for enhanced sexual pleasure (yeah, you heard it right). So it basically involves a full body massage using unsalted butter – even your nether regions get buttered, yes – followed by exposure to smoke in an enclosed environment. Clearly, unless one is extremely motivated and very enterprising, this one will be difficult to try at home. Visit an Ethiopian massage parlour on your next holiday abroad just to try it! Reviews suggest that it does work.

Beer Bath

The beer bath is a traditional Czech routine whereby clients enjoy a 20-minute dip in a bubbly tub of dark beer. Rich in Vitamin B and yeast, beer is supposedly wonderful for the skin. Though it is slightly difficult to arrange for a tub-full of beer for bathing, you could add equal parts of olive oil and beer (1 cup each perhaps) in your bath water and either soak for a while or simple shower with it. You shall emerge from the bath with bright, glistening, hydrated skin. Sounds great!

Give these weird beauty treatments a try, if for nothing else, then just the fun of trying something new. Having tried the Asian spoon massage, chocolate facial, fish pedicure and beer bath, I feel that experimenting with new techniques can lead to great discoveries and much better skin!

The Art of Wearing Perfume

“A woman who doesn’t wear perfume has no future.” – Coco Chanel

I am a self-confessed perfume fanatic who firmly believes in the power of a good scent. When I am feeling low, a whiff of my favourite perfume can instantly lift my spirits and turn my mood around. I also tend to associate certain scents with memories of places and people – for example, Love by Chloe reminds me of serene summer nights and Burberry Sport reminds me of my best friend.

While wearing perfume seems pretty easy, many women tend to get it wrong and either end up giving others a headache with an overpowering scent or having their perfume fade away after a couple of hours. Both outcomes are less than ideal. The tips that follow will help you master the art of wearing perfume the right way (and yes, it is an art!)

When it comes to finding the right scent for you, forget what the most popular perfumes of the season are and never buy a perfume just because it smells good on someone else! Fragrances are very personal and your choice will depend on your preferences as well as your body chemistry. Before purchasing a perfume, think about where you will be wearing it and how often. Although there is nothing wrong with traditional floral scents, feel free to think outside of the box and experiment with different scents and notes.

The biggest dilemma that most women face is where to spray their perfume. To my mind, there are three key places where you must spritz for a long lasting effect – behind your ears, the pulse points on your wrist and behind your knees. As a rule of thumb, you do not need more that two sprays per area but I reckon that one spray is enough, too. Contrary to popular belief, you should never rub your wrists together after applying perfume because the friction rubs away the top notes of the perfume. On special occasions, I also love to spritz some scent into my hair for some extra oomph. Everyone loves hair that smells great!

Another great way to wear perfume is to spray it in the air and then walk through the cloud of perfume; however, you should not try this method if you are wearing fabrics that are prone to discolouration or delicate jewellery.

For your perfumes to last longer, it is really important that you store them in the right manner. Avoid places with really high temperatures and store your perfume bottles in a cool, dry space instead. The best place to store perfumes is your fridge and the worst place is your bathroom (because of the moisture and heat from the lights).

Happy spritzing, girls!

Five Fashion Rules You Should Break This Year

I have always found the notion of having “rules” for fashion quite preposterous. If style is a medium to express your individuality, how can it be bound by constraints? The good thing is that rules are meant to be broken so go ahead and resolve to breach some fashion rules this year!

Never wear gold and silver jewelry together.

Whoever set this precedent in the world of fashion needs to have a serious word with me. Different metallic shades can and do work wonderfully together when paired in the right way. I find that the easiest way to mix metals is to layer silver and gold necklaces or load up your wrist with different bangles in both metallic hues. Many bloggers are jumping on the mixed metal bandwagon and you should too.

You should avoid wearing navy blue and black together.

The notion that two of the classiest colours in existence cannot be worn together is the perfect example of an old wives’ tale that is totally untrue. In fact, the combination of navy blue and black is as sleek and sophisticated as it gets. If you still have your doubts, turn to fashion icons like Alexa Chung and the Olsen twins who have sported this pairing time and time again.

Wearing more than one print is a fashion faux pas.

Excuse me! I beg to differ with whoever made this ridiculous statement. Mixed prints have become all the rage this year because they are fiercely fresh and undeniably modern. While the trend might seem intimidating, it is actually quite easy to pull off. As a rule of thumb, stick to prints within the same colour family for an unexpected yet elegant ensemble. Feel free to experiment with prints on footwear and handbags, too.

Tall women should not wear high heels.

Being a rather tall woman myself, this “rule” irks me for two reasons. The first is that it stems from a sexist point of view. The second is that your physical attributes have nothing to do with what you can and cannot wear. Girl, if you want to wear those high heels, wear them with pride and strut your stuff like the diva that you are. Never let anyone tell you that you “cannot” and “should not.”

Restrict yourself to one bold colour per outfit.

The colour block trend has been around for long enough for you to know that this guideline does not hold true anymore. If there is one thing that the trend has taught me, it is that vibrant colours can really bring out the beauty in each other when styled correctly. A great way to pair bold colours together is with the help of the colour wheel. Opposite colours on the wheel are complementary and thus, make for ideal combinations.

The Diva’s Heels’ Check-List: 5 Kinds of Heeled Shoes you have to Own

High-heeled shoes are a diva’s best weapon, literally and fashion-wise. A pair of well-styled mini-stilts (if you will) can take an outfit from “Yow!” to “Wow!” with little effort, in no time.

But as with everything fashionable, women are spoilt for choice when it comes to heeled shoes. There are just so many options in terms of heel height, shape and style, that you could own far too many and still feel lacking.

The trick then is to first own at least one pair of the most versatile heeled shoes and then build your collection from there. Here’s your check-list for heeled must-haves – get hold of these and you’ll be proud owner of all the essentials:

The Stiletto Heel

Yes, of course, these have to be the first on the list. Stilettos have a long, thin heel, usually over 3.5 inches. You may not know but this heel type is named after a dagger, so you can imagine just how sharp and pointy they tend to be. Such shoes are staples for party-wear and add an extra doze of oomph to an evening outfit. Even if you are not comfortable wearing heels this high, you could get a pair of shorter stilettos and bring your A-game to every party with such killer heels.

The Block Heel

For high-heel-haters, block heels are the more suitable alternative. Unlike stilettos, whose heel is thin, narrow and ends in a point, block heels have a broader base and body. This makes them infinitely easier to walk in, while allowing the same height and posture as stilettos do. Get these on for an occasion when you need to look you best but do not want the hassle of balance-defying footwear.

The Wedge Heel

This is truly the working woman’s heel and arguably the most comfortable of them all. Wedges have a heel that covers the entire sole and is shaped in a form that tapers downward. Since there is full support to the shoe on its base, wedge heels offer more stability and balance. They are perfect for those occasions when you have some running around to do, and thus work wonders with office-wear in particular.

The Kitten Heel

We have Audrey Hepburn to thank for kitten heel for it is she who popularized the style. Short, slender heels which are no longer than 2 inches, these can be worn with outfits both formal and casual. Kitten heels promise comfort and style for those days when you want to look fashionable with minimum effort.

The Cone Heel

Like the name suggests, these shoes have heels shaped like a cone. Like the stiletto, cone heels have a downward taper, though it is neither as thin nor as sharp as that of the former. Even as they promise elevation, cone heels are more comfortable than both stilettos and block heels, making them a great option for office-wear as well as casual-wear.

So, these are the heeled must-haves that should definitely be part of your wardrobe. If you don’t have them all already, maybe it’s time to go shopping? (You know you want to).

Travelling In Style

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

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

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

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

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

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

How To Look Fashionable While Working Out

When I first started exercising, I was quite happy to don my loose track pants and over-sized t-shirts. Today, my mindset has changed and like most women, I feel the need to look good (or presentable at the very least) whilst breaking into a sweat. Now, I am not talking about wearing a thick layer of makeup before you hit the gym (um, EW) but about paying attention to the smaller details that can make a world of difference.

Tie Your Hair Up

Seriously, ladies! I have never quite understood how women work out with the hair loose around their shoulders. More often than not, it ends up flying in their face and looking terribly ridiculous. Before you hit the ground running, tie your hair up into a chic ponytail or trendy sock bun for a hairstyle that is pretty and pragmatic.

Avoid Baggy Silhouettes

For some reason, we have come to believe that only loose silhouettes can be comfortable; however, modern workout attire will tell you the exact opposite. One of the easiest ways to look more stylish while exercising is to wear skin-fitting clothes that allow your skin to breathe. Most leading sportswear brands have a great selection of leggings, yoga pants, crop tops and slim fit t-shirts which are ideal. Plus, I find that I am more motivated to get fit when I can clearly see the shape of my body and muscles.

Incorporate Colour and Print

Do not shy away from incorporating fashion trends into your workout wardrobe! Adding a pop of colour to your ensemble is a great way to feel fabulous and motivate yourself to get out of bed everyday. Neon is ultra popular in workout wear right now, as are colours like hot pink, electric blue and parrot green. Another way to add some pizzazz to your look is to find sportswear pieces with fun prints like floral and leopard. Adidas does great lines of sportswear in quirky prints and has definitely become my favourite in the last six months!

Cute Sneakers Are Essential

Sneakers are the crux of your workout ensemble but along with being functional, they should be fashionable. To infuse your look with fun, opt for sneakers in a bright colour or interesting print. Again, Adidas does a great line of quirky sneakers! If you are not ready to go all out with your kicks quite yet, simply switch up the laces of your regular footwear for something that is more fun and fashionable.

Post Work-Out Attire

Once you have completed your workout, it is essential that you throw on a snazzy piece for some post-workout glamour. Just ask your favourite celebrity! Cozy scarves, light jackets and bohemian waistcoats are some of my favourite pieces to throw on when I am leaving the gym. Comfortable and chic – what more does a girl need?

How To Wear Sequins

The easiest way to spice up an ordinary outfit is to add a dose of fun sequins to your ensemble. Of course, when it comes to wearing sequins, you must pay careful attention to styling, because the line between glamorous and garish is quite fine.

The first and most important rule to remember is that sequins should always be paired with a piece that is not loud. As a rule of thumb, always pair your sequined garment with plain pieces in neutral hues like white, grey, black, navy blue or beige. In fact, this is an important trick to keep in mind when you are wearing anything that is sparkly and embellished. By matching your sequins with a plain piece, you can ensure that the sequins are the center of attention without going OTT.

Having said that, feel free to experiment with the colour of sequins that you wear. These embellishments come in almost every colour you can think of. Remember, stick to only one shade of sequins. Mixing them up in different colours is not a good look for anyone.

When purchasing a sequined garment, pay attention to the cut and fit of the piece. Since the embellishments are rather bold in their own right, balance out the loudness with demure silhouettes that up the level of sophistication – think higher necklines and longer hemlines. Also, remember to keep the silhouettes as simple as possible. Complex shapes and structures combined with sequins is a path that you do not want to take.

If you are hesitant to go all out with the sequin trend, you can still sport some sparkle in smaller quantities. Look for accessories that are sequined for a tinge of subtle pizzazz. Hair accessories are great for some slight bling. Investing in a pair of sequin high heels or ballet flats is always a great idea too because it is the easiest way to take your outfit to the next level.

Finally, remember to differentiate between sequins that are appropriate for the day and night. The two cannot and should not be interchanged. To wear sequins during the day, opt for pieces with sequins details in the form of a pattern or panel. For the evening, feel free to opt for garments that are embellished with sequins all over them.

The trick to keep your outfit together is to keep your accessories as minimal as possible. When wearing something as shiny as sequins, it is always a good idea to wear jewellery that is subtle and delicate. No statement necklaces here, please! Your handbag and shoes should also be subtle enough to blend in. Keep the rest of your outfit as minimal as possible allows your sequins to stay in the spotlight without blinding anyone. The same rule applies to your hair and makeup, too.

Finally, remember that the best trick for pulling off any bold look is to carry yourself with confidence. Stick a large smile on your face, walk with your head held high and shine bright like a diamond!

How To Dress For Job Interview Success

Impressing a prospective employer at a job interview usually has more to do with your appearance and demeanour than what you actually say during the course of the meeting. Is it any wonder, then, that women have been pondering over this pressing question for years now: how do I dress for job interview success?

When asked this question, I usually tell people that there is no one-shot formula for success. In fact, what you wear is heavily influenced by the industry and level of the job in question so for starters, it is always a good idea to do your research on the dress code of the industry and company. This initial step is extremely important because people at the same level will dress differently across industries – pitch fashion against finance for an easy example!

Once you have got a hang of how people tend to dress, you can start planning your own interview look. As a rule of thumb, you should always dress a couple of notches fancier than what the company requires. For example, if the standard dress code is jeans and a t-shirt (yes, this does exist!), I would opt for a pair of jeans with a crisp white shirt and boyfriend blazer.

Unless you are one of the lucky ones who is interviewing within the fashion industry, your interview attire should be as simple and minimal as possible. Avoid loud, busy prints and superfluous pops of colour but do not hesitate to wear a slightly bright colour if it makes you feel like a superstar. Simply balance out the brightness with a neutral hue like navy blue, olive green or beige. Remember, fit is everything. Nothing screams disinterest like ill-fitted clothes so spend some extra time and money in finding an outfit that fits and flatters your body.

Ladies, if you plan to wear a dress or skirt to your interview, remember that the hemline should be no shorter than a pen length above your knee. This prevents unwanted exposure when you sit down. A display of cleavage is an absolute no-no as well.

As with any ensemble, accessories can make or break your look for an interview. Small details are a great way to let your personality shine through, but an overload of accessories (even if that is your normal style) can be overwhelming and look unprofessional. Contrary to what many say, it is a-okay to wear one statement jewellery piece to your job interview, as long as it professional (avoid neon, spikes, unsightly motifs, cult symbols etc.) I always try to match my shoes to my bag for job interviews – it might be old school but it works like a charm in bringing your entire look together!

Do not forget to pay attention to the little things. Ensure that your nails are neatly trimmed and filed (again, avoid loud colours unless the industry calls for it). Spritz on a light scent that speaks to your personality but is not overwhelming for the person sitting across from you. Keep your makeup light and your hairstyle neat.

Finally, stick a beautiful smile on your face, gather up your confidence and get ready to wow the socks off your interviewer. You go, girl!

30 Things To Do Before The End Of Summer

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

13. Roadtrip! Enough said.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

21. Wear a flower crown wherever you go.

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

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

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

25. Watch the sunrise.

26. Watch the sunset.

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

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

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

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

Be an Intelligent Online Shopper – 7 Tips for Virtual Customers

To some people like me, online shopping is the most wonderful thing that the internet has made possible. For those who are either extremely choosey or have no time or love to explore all options before buying, online shopping is a life-saver.

But of course, there are pros and cons to everything. There are many issues people face with regard to quality/size of products, fraudulent websites, bad customer service or simple distrust for the entire concept of buying off the internet.

So I have compiled a list of tips and tricks that will help you shop online more intelligently, gaining optimum benefit off the deal. Rest assured, I am a very experienced virtual customer – I have barely bought anything off the rack in past couple of years!

Here’s my list of do’s and don’ts

Do not trust a website with a botched up user-interface. My general advice is that you buy stuff off of standard websites that have created a good reputation for themselves. But sometimes, it so happens that you find that rare brand of clothes/shoes/accessories/supplements, etc on an obscure website that you have never heard of. In such a case, judge using the user-interface. If it is sophisticated and well-designed, it is unlikely to be a fraud scheme (creating such sites requires much investment, hardly fitting the MO of cheats). To be on the safer side still, bill your order to Cash-on-Delivery.
Always look for coupon codes before ordering. Most frequent users subscribe to newsletters with shopping portals, but sometimes, even despite that, you may miss out on some discount schemes. However, there are some websites which are exclusive directories recording all schemes/coupon codes that are presently active on a site. Just do a Google search before ordering typing “<website name> coupon code <month, year>” to get a list of active deals on different websites. A few pennies saved are a few purchases more!
Order two sizes when in doubt. For those who are always paranoid about sizes and fitting, order two sizes of the same product, be it shoes, clothes, lingerie or something else. When delivered, try on both sizes and keep whatever fits better. You will have to go through the process of returning the product which is slightly tedious, but next is tip will make that easier too.
Take precautions for returning purposes. Most people find the process of returning bought items extremely putting off. It requires too much effort and time. Well, here are some things you can do. When opening your package, cut at the original seams so even the outermost packaging isn’t destroyed. You will then no need to repack the product, just re-seal it instead for postage. Also, keep a template mail in your drafts to use for all returns so you don’t have to write a new one each time. Just add in Order numbers and some specific details for every return.
Make online payments whenever possible. This is because you will avoid many hassles. One, you’ll not have to respond to any confirmation call (pre-orders are instantly confirmed). Also, when the package arrives, you can get someone else to receive it (such as a neighbour, house-help, etc) if you are not around, since no cash needs be exchanged. You will also forgo the invariable scrounge for exact change which ensues when the delivery boy arrives. And most importantly, in case of a return request, your money will be credited into your bank account. With Cash-on-Delivery orders, the money gets converted into store credit, which necessitates another purchase for the site.
Always refer to specific size charts. Every site and seller provides sizing information. Most people simply assume that the size they usually wear for standard brands will work. However, when shopping online, be doubly careful by re-checking the size chart provided with each specific item. Also, follow the chart always; if you usually wear a Small, but this chart measurement suggests Medium, go for the latter.
Do not hesitate to return. As mentioned before, many people find the return procedure bothersome. Often that results in them keeping ill-fitting or dissatisfactory products and later holding the websites/virtual shopping responsible for their bad experience. Do not do this; make the extra effort to return within the prescribed time, and you will realize how convenient the service is.

If you keep these things in mind, you will eventually be able to shop online like a pro. And keep at it, after all, practice makes perfect. Best part is, shopping is something you won’t mind practising at all!

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.