I’ve always been extra-conscious about my skin but the lockdown has made me a wee bit more indulgent. Maybe, the stress has made me more vulnerable to breakouts or it’s just that I am noticing the smallest of pores and spots. Still, being someone who always sees a silver lining, I’ve decided to use this downtime for pampering my skin. Luckily, I have some awesome face masks in my collection and I’m using them regularly, according to moods and needs. Let me list the most amazing ones I recommend.
The Goddess Skin Clay Mask claims to visibly lift, smoothen and brighten your skin, and tighten the pores as well, which it absolutely does! This nourishing 10-minute clay mask is my recommendation for rejuvenating your skin. The mask is enriched with Spanish clay that absorbs oil and impurities without causing dryness and essential oils that hydrate and delay the signs of aging.
My favourite pick for the upcoming summer, this mask has incredible cooling effect that your skin wants in the hot weather. The product contains naturally-cooling ingredients like organic willow bark and mint, which make your skin feel instantly lighter, cooler and refreshed. As a bonus, it gives you get a radiant glow that makes you look and feel beautiful.
A detox for your skin is something that you can absolutely use right now! And my rescue mask for the difficult breakout-days is the Bareminerals Dirty Detox Mud Mask. The product combines the goodness of purifying charcoal with the amazing qualities of four mineral-rich clays and natural Papaya Enzyme to make your skin smooth, luminous and vibrant.
I’ve been using Clarins for quite some time now and I can swear by this one because this is my second tube. This rebalancing purifying clay mask reboots my skin in just 10 minutes with the Organic Alpine Willow Herb extract mattifying, minimizing shine and reducing the appearance of pores. White Clay and Green Clay absorb the impurities, smoothen up the skin and give a healthy-looking glow.
Bareminerals Metallic Mask – Mini Kit – Gem Stone One
The most amazing one in my cabinet is this mini kit by Bareminerals that has a collection of four incredible metallic masks. The gold mask is enriched with Hyaluronic Acid that gives your skin a much-needed hydration boost. The Amethyst one has rejuvenating and revitalizing action while the Sapphire Blue mask detoxifies your skin. The Pink Diamond gives you a healthy, radiant glow. I use this one for multi-masking, applying them selectively for target-specific concerns.
My favourite that I’d want to share with health buffs is the super-healthy, awesome Green Smoothie recipe that I mixed up by chance. But believe me, it is my choice now as I shake it up every other day. Vegan and made with lots of healthy ingredients, this amazing shake is just right for breakfast and keeps my energy levels up all day long.
Now that I’m pretty well settled in the lockdown routine and know that it’s going to be a long time ahead, I’ve decided to unlock my culinary talent. And the last thing I want to indulge in is the unhealthy goodies that sound so tempting. Rather my agenda for this period is to eat healthy and feel energetic, that too while relishing the recipes I create. And the fact that I have two fussy eaters at home makes the challenge even bigger. Still, I love cooking for the family and discovering recipes that are delicious and healthy at the same time.
My favourite that I’d want to share with health buffs is the super-healthy, awesome Green Smoothie recipe that I mixed up by chance. But believe me, it is my choice now as I shake it up every other day. Vegan and made with lots of healthy ingredients, this amazing shake is just right for breakfast and keeps my energy levels up to match the challenges of work from home, even while I juggle with loads of housework and an energetic 6-year old!
The best thing about my Green Smoothie is that it has ingredients that are all easily available at home. And if you don’t have one of them, you can find an easy alternative in your refrigerator or kitchen cabinet. So here is a list of the ingredients I use to shake up a jugful for my family.
My favourite that I’d want to sharewith health buffs is the super-healthy, awesome Green Smoothie recipe that Imixed up by chance. But believe me, it is my choice now as I shake it up everyother day. Vegan and made with lots of healthy ingredients, this amazing shake isjust right for breakfast and keeps my energy levels up to match the challengesof work from home, even while I juggle with loads of housework and an energetic6-year old!
Prep Time5 minutesmins
Cook Time1 minutemin
Total Time6 minutesmins
Course: Breakfast, Drinks
Keyword: green smoothie, healthy, immunity boosting, smoothie
Servings: 1person
Calories: 220kcal
Author: Archana
Cost: £2 – £3
Equipment
Blender
Ingredients
1CupChopped Kale
1Cup Spinach Leaves
1inch cubeGinger
1tablespoonFlax Seeds
7piecesAlmonds
1tbspHoney
1/2Banana
125mlCoconut Milk
Instructions
Once you have all the ingredients onyour shelf, it’s time to get started. Here is a list of instructions to createthe most yummilicious, gorgeous-looking Green Smoothie in just three steps anda couple of minutes.
Put all the ingredients in a blenderand blend them till smooth; make sure that there are no chunks of the leafygreens or fruits.
Once you mix up the perfect smoothie, taste it and perfect it. Ensurethat it has just the right consistency and temperature. If you want your kid totry it, I’d suggest adding some honey for the healthy sweet kick. You can evenadd a dash of lemon to balance the bitterness of the greens. My secretingredient is ginger because I love the zing it brings to the drink. Even mylittle one loves it!
After perfecting the flavours, justgive it a final whisk in the blender to get that amazing smooth consistency andvibrant green colour. You can refrigerate the drink for up to 24 hours, thoughI prefer blending a fresh batch every time. If you do want to use arefrigerated batch, be sure to shake it up before drinking.
Video
Notes
I’m sure you’d love this recipe as it is just the pick-me-up you need when you feel the blues of the lockdown effect. You can try a few variations every time as I do. For instance, you can use pineapple or mango in place of banana. Toss in nuts and seeds of your choice. Or just experiment with any juice, water or any other milk. I like honey and ginger, though they are optional too.And I’d surely want to list down the nutritional benefits of each of the ingredients so that you appreciate my smoothie’s health value as much as its taste.
Kale–High in antioxidants and vitamin C, detoxifies naturally, lowers cholesterol levels
Spinach- Loaded with folic acid, carotenoids, vitamin C, vitamin K, iron, and calcium, cleanses your skin inside out
Ginger–Improves digestion, protects from cold and flu, reduces inflammation naturally
Flax seeds – Rich in fiber, omega-3 fats and high quality proteins, give instant energy boost
Almonds-Contain fiber, healthy fats, protein, magnesium and vitamin E, reduce hunger and promote weight control
Honey – Healthiest alternative to sugar, rich in antioxidants
Banana-Nutritious, filling and hefty source of energy, minus unhealthy fats and cholesterol
Coconut milk- High in antioxidants, strengthens immunity and aids weight loss
Seeing these benefits, you will probably understand why I have settled for these ingredients for mixing up my Green Smoothie. And if you have some great ideas, do share them here.Happy Blending!!
As
coronavirus continues to ravage different parts of the world, a large number of
countries have resorted to self-imposed lockdowns. Though the measure for
social distancing seems stringent, it is surely meant for the greater good. And
I see the silver lining in the fact that now is the time we can get back to the
basics, spend more time with family and catch up everything that we’ve been
missing in the race to stay ahead. Here are some things I would suggest doing
at home to make the most of the lockdown mode.
Cook- If you are an avid cooking enthusiast like me, now is the time to experiment with your grandma’s classic recipes. Or you can just try using that recipe book you bought but never got to open. You can even bake some cakes with kids to keep engaged and spend some quality time with them.
Read- I’ve always loved reading but this hobby somehow
took a backseat, with my personal and professional responsibilities taking up
all my time. I’m using this lockdown as the opportunity for hunting down the
old and new works of my favourite authors and reading them.
Movies- Now is the time to dig out the all-time favourites
and the latest releases and catch up on the movies you have been missing. A
cup of steaming hot coffee with homemade popcorn is all you would want for a
perfect evening!
Exercise- Don’t forget your exercise routine! Try innovative
indoor exercise techniques such as aerobics, yoga and tai-chi instead of
the gym and morning jogs. After all, you wouldn’t want those extra pounds on
when you get back to work.
Dance- And if you want to have fun while losing calories,
try your favourite dance form. The best part is that you can involve your
partner and rekindle your romance with this amazing pastime.
Hope these cool ideas will make the
lockdown less stressful. Let’s stay healthy and think positive, this will pass
too!
London Fashion Week is the grand extravaganza that showcases the best and the trendiest in the fashion circles every year. This year marked a special beginning for Indian fashion, with the first-of-its-kind ‘India Day’ celebration by Indian High Commission at the London Fashion Week. The grand event was held in Victoria House on February 15 and highlighted the elegance and grandeur of the quintessential Indian saree.
‘India Day’ was a tribute to the design, talent and textiles of the country that is so well known for its creative, cultural and traditional splendour. It was a fashion show that presented a remarkable line of attire created by the budding designers and artists from India’s Inter National Institute of Fashion Design (INIFD). The limelight at the event was on the traditional Indian sarees from various parts of India.
Models presented sheer elegance on the ramp with as many as seventeen different varieties of sarees from across the country. The range was breathtaking, from Kashmiri and Phulkari from the North, to Kantha and Baluchari from West Bengal, Paithni from Maharashtra, Bandhni from Rajasthan, Ghatchola from Gujarat, Banarasi from Varanasi, Kasavu from Kerala and Kanjivaram from Tamil Nadu, all of which made a feast for the eyes. Madhya Pradesh’s Chanderi, Assam’s ethnic Mekhela Chadar, Odisha’s Sambalpuri and Lucknow’s Chikankari were some of the other exceptional varieties on show.
Shabnam Harjai, Sandya Miriyala, Ayushi Jain, Pearl Lobo, Tanishaa Parakh, Soutrav Marndi, Suchitra Rani Sahoo amd Darshna Gothi were some of the acclaimed designers who participated in the event. The guest list was equally impressive, with the likes of Mrs Ruchi Ghanashyam, the Indian High Commissioner to the UK, Lord Tariq Ahmad, UK Foreign Office minister, Mark Regev, Israeli ambassador to the UK, and Saida Muna Tasneem, Bangladeshi High Commissioner to the UK. Mrs Ruchi Ghanashyam had generous words of praise for the wonderful craftspeople and weavers of India who create the most amazing and rich variety in sarees.
Another highlight of the event was a video message by Mrs Smriti Irani, the Union minister of textiles, who addressed saree as the pride of the country rather than just being a piece of clothing.
Every working mom and dad knows the challenges of managing work and kids together and the best part is that a majority of us do pretty well. But the sudden outbreak of coronavirus has made us question our capabilities as we struggle to align the work-at-home culture with unexpected school breaks. So the concern that almost every parent shares today relates to managing work and kids together as we get quarantined for at least a few weeks or even months ahead.
Here are some suggestions I have for work-at-home parents with kids of all ages.
Create and maintain schedules- It will keep you productive and sane and the kids will feel comfortable and normal as well.
Build a strategy with your partner- Don’t expect to handle the crisis by yourself, rather create a strategy with your partner. Consider working in shifts so that you can balance things as a team.
Communicate- You may be super-busy while working remotely but don’t miss out on communication with the children. Let them know you are always there for them, even when working on your full-time job.
Keep the kiddos engaged– Art and craft makes an ideal pastime for the younger ones, while you can find some good apps and games for the older children. Still, keep a check on their screen time.
Delegate- You can delegate the household chores to keep the kids busy and reduce your workload. Rewarding them for helping is a good way to keep them positive and motivated.
Find activities you can do together- Fun family activities like indoor games, preparing dinner together and yoga sessions every evening make a good idea.
Set boundaries- Set clear boundaries for your children and let them know you will be working from home just like you did from the office.
Try to have a separate work area- It would be great if you can allocate a work area away from where the kids spend most of their time. Ask them to stay out when you have a virtual meeting or conference call.
Take breaks and pamper yourself- Be sure to get breaks and spend time pampering yourself because you will need to recharge once in a while
Take one day as it comes- You will not feel stressed about the future as it is hard to predict how long it will last.
Most importantly, my advice is to be flexible and realize that you cannot be perfect in such an imperfect situation!
Though we may have all worked from home once or more, mandatory work-from-home has now taken us by surprise with the coronavirus crisis taking over the world. Being productive while working remotely can be challenging, with all kinds of distractions you have at home.
There are kids to handle, pets to look after, housework to do and a lot more to deal with. And sometimes, the vibe itself makes you feel off. Still, my personal experience says that achieving optimal productivity even while working from home is possible if you take the right approach. Some tips if you are trying to work from home, and either getting bored or losing spirit:
1. Have a Plan for the day – My tip is to do this the night before 2. Get started early, as it helps to get more out of the day. 3. Pretend like you are going into the office, dress up for those video conference calls as well. 4. Structure your day like you would in the office. You will definitely be at your productive best. 5. Choose a dedicated workspace; don’t try to work all day from bed because it makes you feel lazy. 6. Don’t stay at home all day. Go for a walk in your park or garden, step outside and breathe some fresh air. 7. Have social media interactions and online-only during free time as we have a tendency to watch and read the news or feeds and generally lose track of time. 8. Commit to doing more and use time wisely. You will actually end up doing more as you are saving time for regular commuting. 9. Work when you’re at your most productive. It could be in the early morning or late at night. I structure my day accordingly and keep my calls for the afternoon. 10. Use technology to stay connected with family, friends and teams. 11. Get kids into a schedule so your work plan can be managed with their schedule, though easier said than done. 12. Play some music in the background and work will be so much fun 😉 13. Take breaks after a long sitting and finish some household work in that break (like drying up laundry, washing dishes or chopping vegetables for dinner) 14. Spend some time with family and have fun. Take this as an opportunity to reboot.
Do share and let me know if you have any more tips and I will add them to the list with credits. Also, comment below if you want me to share more tips on anything else #workfromhometips
London Fashion Week is undoubtedly one of the biggest fashion events in the global fashion landscape. Beyond just promoting styles and trends, the event takes initiatives to bring drive progressive and positive changes in the industry as a whole. The Positive Fashion Exhibition, which was showcased at London Fashion Week in September 2019 was the initial step in this direction and the February 2020 fashion week took the initiative a step further.
The Positive Fashion Exhibition, which was re-launched by the British Fashion Council, showcased new brands and immersive experiences for the guests, with compelling stories woven around the foundational pillars of sustainability, craftsmanship and ethics. The event brought together innovators, designers, and businesses to narrate their brand stories and demonstrate how they craft their products. Beyond just telling stories, it aimed to educate and inspire the audience on the positive changes within the fashion industry as a whole.
The initiative aspires to drive a positive change through the adoption of industry best practices and better future business decisions. Essentially, Positive Fashion imbibes three strategic pillars in its core–
Environment- Emphasizes environmental and business governance to ensure a sustainable future for the domain
People- Represents the people who are a part of the industry, from product makers to students, models and staff
Community and craftsmanship- Supports the skills, talent and elements of craftsmanship which serve as the foundation of the fashion industry and have a positive impact on the local communities
Another BFC initiative that was a key part of the event was NEWGEN, which supports the emerging talent in the industry and aspires to build global fashion brand leaders of the future. The scheme offers financial support coupled with the opportunities to showcase their talent and polish their business skills to future-proof their brands. Further, it delivers personalized mentoring and training sessions to assist the chosen designers for developing their skills and business infrastructure.
NEWGEN is open to menswear, womenswear and accessories brands based in the UK. The winning designers were identified on the basis of their strong design aesthetics, creativity and point of difference.
The Autumn Winter London Fashion Week was is always something I look forward to, and was even more special this year to see one of India’s leading fashion houses – Rocky Star, on the runway. Rocky Star is a visionary of the Indian fashion scene, always looking at ways of amalgamating traditional, yet innovative designs in his high fashion pieces. With textures and designs employing some of our heritage’s oldest crafts into modern couture, the Rocky Star label embodies bold aesthetics in simple and comfortable silhouettes for men and women.
The Rocky Star Autumn Winter 2020 collection is a revival of some of the brand’s signature styles, patterns, embroideries and aesthetics from its previous collections, some of which, in classic Rocky Star style, were a nod to the Baroque and Gothic time periods. The brand breathes new life into each of these pieces from its stylish past, making them pertinent to current times.
The collection features bomber jackets, faux leather trenches, and tailored jackets, paired with voluminous skirts, flared trousers and signature trousers. Going bold and classic with black as the background, the fashion house has got a slew of sequins, lace, feathers, ruffles and pleats to the forefront with metallic accents and threadwork, bringing futuristic designs to the fashion scene.
Each piece has been cleverly curated to mix and match with others from the collection, making it ideal for those who prefer a minimalist wardrobe with maximum impact. The textures and intricate work are perfect for a pop of warmth and glamour in the setting of the cold weather, bringing back the excitement into everyday dressing.
Two of my favourite ensembles from the collection are an oversized black jumper with a multi-colour metallic sequined skirt finished in a gathered hem, and a silver sequined check suit with a sleek black faux leather collar and belt. Be it street style or elegant occasionwear, I am looking forward to introducing the Rocky Star Autumn Winter 2020 collection to my wardrobe.
As fashion lovers today are more eco-conscious, sustainability has emerged as a buzzword in the sartorial circles. The collaboration between TOBEFRANK & MOLYNEAUX envisions a perfect blend of style and sustainability for people who want them both in their collection.
After being away from PPQ for several seasons, Amy Molyneaux wanted to be back at London Fashion Week and her vision this time was to ensure sustainability at the core of her work. She joined hands with Frankie Phillips from the sustainable fashion brand TOBEFRANK to translate this vision into reality. Together they have created an exemplary collection that proves you can save the earth without compromising style.
A collection that carries forward the legacy of sustainability
TOBEFRANK, as a fashion brand, has always been known for prioritizing sustainability as a part of its existence. It operates through state-of-the-art factories in Turkey, which follow the highest standard to create a collection that is 90% sustainable and uses no virgin materials. TOBEFRANK follows one rule religiously- designing clothing which aligns with the checklist of Innovation, Responsibility and Transparency.
It aims to improve people’s lives by creating wages and development programmes. The second objective is to make the planet a better place, with an innovative mindset towards methods of procurement, production and delivery of clothing. At the same time, the brand wants to ensure profits and prosperity for itself and the artisans it employs.
Creatively-sourced sustainable fabrics and innovative processing techniques
Over the years, TOBEFRANK has been renowned for developing creatively-sourced sustainable fabrics. From recycled cotton and polyester to plastic bottle denim, faux leather patch made from apples, organza from recycled plastics, satin from seeds and chrome free leathers, the brand has devised some incredible ways to come up with eco-friendly fabrics.
Further, it uses innovative processing techniques that go a long way in saving the environment. These include zero water technology washing, dying fabric with weeds, herbs, and tea bags, and vegetable dyed leather.
Sustainable collection that achieves sartorial goals as well
As a part of its initiative to popularize sustainable fashion, TOBEFRANK & MOLYNEAUX has come up with an amazing collection. The silhouettes are mainly comprised of Elizabethan-inspired high necks, which take high cut playsuits and tailored monochrome one pieces to the next level.
Other elements that are worth-mentioning include organza created from recycled plastic, recycled lace trims and chiffon cocktail dresses crafted from spun left-over cotton husk. The collection presents recycled wool coats in dual tone with off white and black and embellished with recycled buttons.
TOBEFRANK & MOLYNEAUX’s collection is a true inspiration for those who want to embrace style while saving the planet!
The last week has been one of the most exciting in London for one very sole reason – London Fashion Week! As I witnessed the art of modern fashion on the runway, I chose to take the approach of sustainability to my personal fashion choices in this duration, so here are some looks I mixed and matched and got my creative cells ticking.
Look 1: Minimalist in Indigo
‘Postfold’ is an Indian ethical fashion brand that promises to bring ethically sourced, premium quality fabrics, without the unreasonable hefty price tags. And believe me, they deliver that promise! Their easy, yet, a chic collection of apparel will take you from coffee to champagne hours, without compromising on sophistication and style at any given hour of the day. The simplicity of this A-line Indigo dress stole my heart, as I craved for something easy and breezy in the otherwise fast-paced fashion world we live in today. To brave the London weather, I added a faux fur off-white jacket and boots to go and accessorized with simple hoops.
Look 2: The Power of Brocade
Donning the intricate luxury Indian wear brand – ‘Laalatee by Nikita’, it was “Go Big or Go Home” with this one. I am always super excited to bring the bold fabrics and artistry of my ethnicity to the fashion runways of London. The design house’s collection ‘Shringaar’ currently carries this opulent, gold brocade jacket and trousers to match. And since the ensemble did most of the talking, it was only fair to pair it with the humble white shirt and black sandals, to truly shine (pun intended)! Put on a pair of statement gold hoop earrings and get ready to make some heads turn.
Look 3: Pink Play
Nisse is a brand that is created by designer Nargisse. E. Akyuz, who curates every silhouette combining the needs of the modern woman and the trends on the runway. Featured here is Ordella 2 Jacket – a padded sleeve tuxedo dress from Nisse’s latest Resort Collection. While the coat dress could be worn on itself, I went for a modest look, with the Postfold Indigo dress underneath, for the pink to really pop. To add a bit more retro-fun to the look, I accessorized with everything white – including boots, hoop earrings and a statement headband.
Look 4: The Modern Maharani
As mentioned before, I am always enthused to bring my heritage into the limelight, especially through fashion. On this day, I chose the grandeur of this Indian Banarasi lehenga by Indian brand ‘Warp ‘n’ Weft’ to best showcase the craftsmanship of Indian weavers. Paired with a plain white blouse, there is something I find absolutely graceful and sublime about this colour combination. Accessorized with simple, yet comfortable sandals, a silk fabric ‘batwa’ clutch, statement ring and chunky neckpiece, I almost never wanted to get out of this one.
Look 5: Magic Happens with Pink & Glitter
I thought a touch of femininity and romanticism was in order when I dressed up in this one – for it has everything a little girl wants as her dream dress. But this grown-up girl today has a few tweaks to her childhood fantasy, without compromising on the pink or the glitter, all thanks to Selezza London. A straight-cut silhouette with a deep V back added a hint of playfulness to this alluring ensemble. I simply put on a piece of matching silver bracelets from a set, a dusty rose headpiece to match and a faux fur jacket to keep me warm – true princess vibes!
Look 6: Fleur de la Mode
Girls
just want to have fun! And this girl wanted some fun with florals, which in my
opinion, is evergreen and will never go out of fashion! And as any true
timeless piece, I pulled this dress of mine from my earlier years of fashion
collections and decided to breathe new life into it in 2020. The silk floral
print is still as vibrant, and the beaded Swarovski neck gives it even more
glamour. I love the versatility of it because it can also be worn as a tunic
top with jeans under, for something more modest. For a little more edge, I
ditched the delicate heels and put on my white boots. A little vintage, a
little retro, a lot modern – I love this one!
Look 7: In Pink, We Trust
I know pink has been a favourite
of mine this season, but this time, I decided to bring out less of the shade’s
delicate and more of its urbane characteristics. And the best way to do that –
just throw on a solid pink coat over a denim dress. To me, this coat has more
than one function – not only did it keep me warm, but it also made me feel
empowered. While I paired it with my trusty white hoops and boots, you could
just as easily wear your favourite white sneakers, if you’re on the run. Who
says pink is only for fun? This time, it means business!
Look 8: A Cosmopolitan in Mustard
I wanted my final look to be a simple yet stand-out piece and I figured that the trick to achieving that was going for a solid colour – so I put my faith in a mustard linen pant-suit set from Hobbs, and I have absolutely no regrets. I put on a pair of black boots and some minimal jewellery, to let the suit take centre stage. If I was not a believer in yellow before, I definitely am a convert now!
Look 9: Unique Tweed
I sported a unique ‘Vineyard Tweed’ coat by Canadian-based luxury brand – Studio Lorem Ipsum, which creates unique styles of outerwear that embrace and frame various body-types, with premium material and timeless styles. This coat is spun together with layers of white, blue and yellow tweed tresses to keep you warm, has an inner pure silk lining for a luxurious feel and has frayed edges for a contemporary look. It was the focal point of my look, paired with a white tank, solid mustard trousers from a Hobbs suit, black ankle boots and a chunky statement neckpiece.
That’s a wrap on my fashion rack
from this season! Can you tell me which looks were your favourite?
The big fat Indian wedding is a celebration of two souls coming together and also the time to bring on your Fashion A-game! Looking back on some of the outfits I have seen over the last few months, here are some suggestions you can take inspiration from. For this piece, we are covering five outfits from the more commonly loved categories of Indian wear – lehengas and sarees.
Ornate Foliage
This Payal Singal gold and deep green lehenga set comes with an ornate v-neck sleeveless blouse and a deep back that can be fastened at the back, and is adorned with heavy gold floral embroidery. The A-line skirt is made with layers of pale gold net and an overlay of a stripe-like design and embroidery of gold foliage on emerald fabric.
This pattern also runs on the borders of the sheer-lightweight dupatta, which ties the whole look together. The dupatta also has tiny embellishments scattered over the sheer net fabric, to tie the whole look together.
Fresh Mint, Anyone?
Mint may sound like an unusual choice, in a sea of vibrant or dark coloured lehengas, but this one is a show-stopper! With modest, elbow length sleeves and a scoop neck, the ‘choli’ comes alive with embroidery in rich colour and motifs of peacock feathers in gold. This pattern continues on the front-central portion of the skirt, while the rest of the ‘gher’ is dotted with deep colourful Indian motifs on the pale mint background, making it eye-catching, yet, no too loud. It also comes with a sheer dupatta, that is bordered with navy tassels to mimic the colour from the motifs on the bodice of the outfit.
You Can Never go Wrong with Pink!
This fresh pink piece is as much of a standout at an evening event as at a day function. The spaghetti blouse, although like the other also has colourful beading and embroidery details, it stands out because of the ruffle fabric that effortlessly flow. The full princess skirt, has midnight-blue and silver tassels running in symmetric vertical lines right from the waist, and meets up with more vibrant motifs at the hem.
You can also opt to wear this one without a dupatta, that won’t come in the way when you are breaking a leg on the dancefloor. One less thing to worry about! For a bit of fun and contrast, you can complete this look with a rani pink lip.
The Modern Traditional
A hand-painted silk saree is always special and the beautiful contrast of beige and marron is a classic combination. It is perfect for a traditional day time function, but can also be embellished for a more edgy look. Pleat up the ‘pallu’ and fasten a black belt around, for a modern take, which also makes it practical as it secures everything in place, without you having to worry about the fabric shifting too much.
Royalty with a Touch of Glam
This deep purple georgette saree is gorgeous as is and can be worn just like that at any function. Tiered ruffles at the hem and on the ‘pallu’ give it a modern, almost undone, look, and the V-neck halter blouse completes the silhouette. But the piece de resistance is the beaded jacket, in different shades of purple and silver. It is also very practical for more chilly climates or for a touch of more modesty to the look.
So, which one of these do you have your eyes on?
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The most romantic holiday of the year is here, and 2020 is giving us all a whole weekend to celebrate Valentine’s Day! And with a little help from ‘& Other Stories’ and the colour red we have put together some outfit ideas for a romantic rendezvous with your partner or a first date.
Outfit 1: The Boss Babe
Choosing an outfit
for an after-work Valentine’s date can seem a little daunting. Why not opt for
this cute, red full sleeves, button-down jumper, paired with ankle-length
cut-off denim pants? The gold-heart button details make this rather appropriate
for the occasion of Valentine’s, and is not too flashy when on official
meetings. Add on a pair of blue flats
and a necklace and this ensemble will make an easy yet stylish statement for a
pub-night with your beau or an evening with your Galentines.
Outfit 2: So Sweet
Have a fancy date at
a luxury restaurant? Ditch your standard LBD and get with the red theme of St.
Valentine’s with the Jacquard Puff Sleeve Midi Slit Dress. The length of the
dress gives an elegant and tall shape to one’s silhouette, and the gathered
sleeves add detail to the design. Clasp on a pair of strappy heel sandals in a
metallic finish for a bit more festivity and glimmer, and an elegant bag to
match. This one is sure to make heads turn!
Outfit 3: The Modern Retro
This Relaxed Heart Motif Dotted Sweater is a cosy knitted piece with puffed sleeves and polka-dot and heart details in a contrasting bright white against the Valentine Red backdrop. You could pair it with anything you like, such as jeans, or a black skirt like I have done here. I decided to make this sweater’s true partner the patent white boots instead – a nod to the cooler retro American diner era. Add a colourful handbag and you’re all ready for a Sunday brunch date and then to snuggle up watching your favourite rom-com!
But do not feel obligated to conform to the Valentine Red from the colour palette. Play with textures and patterns with co-ords like this tailored hight waisted tweed mini skirt and jacket. For a more sensational look, you could also opt for a jumpsuit like the black belted puff sleeve romper for a night about town. The options are endless!
Our recommendation for your best companions on your date is confidence and a pretty smile.
Continuing on our search for more gastronomic adventures in India, we decided to take a detour from the regular cafes, and also give you the option of more dining options in Mumbai city. So, here is a list of our top 10 restaurants, where you can share a meal with your friends or loved one.
The Bombay Canteen
Indian restaurants are hard to come by these days, especially in Mumbai, where the population is constantly craving flavours of the west. But among all the demand for western flavours, lies an experience of modern Indian cuisine – The Bombay Canteen. Indian at heart, the chefs have created some of the classic dishes of various regional cuisines of the country and given them a twist for all taste buds, with modern gastronomy, unique blends of flavours and impactful presentation. And even their cocktail menu follows the same ethos. Getting the best of both worlds, this little gem has become a favourite amongst Mumbaikars!
One of the leading restaurants that first brought the concept of quality ingredients-driven gastronomy to Mumbai in 2011, The Table, Colaba, is now one of the most sought-after dining spots in the city. Sourcing fresh produce for its own farms and supreme quality of meats and seafood, the restaurant is committed to sourcing nearly all of its ingredients locally. It has truly brought the farm to fork culture to the forefront in Mumbai, and believes in presenting a simple, pure, yet sophisticated and enjoyable menu. Without putting a finger on a particular cuisine, the restaurant takes inspiration from all corners of the world including the Americas, Italy, France, China, Thailand, Japan and more. The restaurant also offers a great beverage menu with an extensive wine list and an expert sommelier to help you navigate through both local and international choices. The Table also hosts a number of events such as masterclasses with chefs and the sommelier. One can always find a place at this table!
Must-Try: Truffle Soft Scrambled Eggs on Toast, Yellowfin Tuna Tataki, Hand Made Goat Cheese Cavatelli, Baby Back Ribs, Chocolate Bundino
Situated in one of the most elite clubs and guests houses of Mumbai suburbs, Ceccnoi’s at Soho House Mumbai offers a modern-day twist to classic Italian flavours. I had the pleasure of staying at Soho House on my last visit to the metropolis and was impressed by the lavish Italian menu featuring authentic pasta, wood oven pizza, mouth-watering antipasti and irresistible desserts. A taste of Italy in India! And that’s not all. The ambience completes the experience with not just cosy indoors, but al-fresco dining on the shore of the famous Juhu Beach, with the view of the vast Arabian Sea. It’s the perfect spot for date night!
Must-Try: Fried Mozarella and Spicy Tomatoes, Parma Ham, Burrata & Rocket pizza, Risotto Asparagus, peas and mint, Chocolate & Amaretto Pudding
Yet dining spot in the grand estate of Soho House Mumbai, The Allis is a great location for casual conversations with friends and family or professional meetings with colleagues and associates. The concept of this space is borrowed from the original Allis first opened in Soho House Chicago, and resonates the same stress-free vibes over coffee, juices and small bites, all day long. And just like Cecconi’s, this space is also open to non-members, making a sophisticated spot in the city for relaxed rendezvous and meetings.
Must-Try: Avocado Toast, Farfalle Four Cheese, Berry Pannacotta, Scones with Cream & Jam
The Modern-Cantonese fine dining icon has gained a reputation as one of the leading restaurants in authentic Chinese food, in Mumbai food culture, since its launch in 2011. Located in the bustling Bandra district, which is accessible to both the North and South extremes of the city, Hakkasan is a favourite amongst locals here. From signature set lunch menus to extensive choices for elaborate dinners and innovative cocktails by skilled mixologists, this is always a place one seeks to get pampered with food. In addition to the regular menu, the culinary team here creates unique experiences by blending authentic Cantonese flavours and local nuances, to curate an “Only At” menu, exclusive to the city of Mumbai. One can also host private events at the restaurant.
Must-Try: Prawn Dumpling with Tobiko, Spicy Jackfruit dumpling, Roasted Mango Duck with Lemon Sauce, Woke Fried New Zealand Lamb Chops, Stir Fry Lotus Root and Asparagus in Black Pepper Sauce and Lemongrass and Vanilla Crème Brulée.
Named after the crustacean Sebastian in everyone’s favourite tale from the sea – The Little Mermaid, this fun dining venue is on every seafood lover’s bucket list. Colourful interiors and rustic furnishings offer a more relaxed vibe and a convivial spot for date nights or family meals. Moreover, it is not just a favourite amongst locals, but one can be sure to spot famous faces from among the crème de la crème of Bollywood, savouring a meal here. Although famous for its extravagant seafood menu, the restaurant also understands the needs of fellow vegetarian counterparts and also offers sumptuous vegan and gluten-free options.
This little nook on Hill Road, Bandra West, is home to authentic Thai and Japanese food in Mumbai. Unlike most others on this list, this is a great space for people looking for a casual dining setting, and still enjoying a wholesome and sophisticated meal. The menu offers everything from known regulars in Japanese and Thai cuisine to the undiscovered yet equally authentic dishes, all made with the choices of ingredients to give customers a complete experience of these two cuisines. In addition, the restaurant’s Thai Chilli Paste has gotten so popular amongst locals, that Seefah now sells this favourite recipe bottled in a jar, which makes for a great present to loved ones or to yourself to relish on its own or add to dishes at home!
This is yet another Asian icon, with numerous outlets dotted across the city. This restaurant, however, stands out because of their innovative presentation styles and contemporary cooking techniques of molecular gastronomy, using fresh and organic produce. The restaurant also offers an expansive menu of tapas, with a unique and flavour profile for each dish. An experience at Pa Pa Ya is incomplete without taking a sip from their extensive range of exclusive cocktails that pair seamlessly with the food.
Must-Try: Potato & Wheat Starch Prawn Hargao Dumplings, Truffle & Mushroom Bao, Spicy Crab Roll, Chocolate Ball on Fire
Here is a piece of Goa’s coastal culinary delights in the heart of Mumbai. If you are not familiar with Goan cuisine, here is what you must know about it – a fiery infusion of centuries of Portuguese colonization and Indian flavours, giving one of the most renowned culinary favourites of the country today. Located in the business district of Bandra Kurla Complex, that is now a culinary hub, this haven of authentic Goan offerings has become a favourite for citizens from all over Mumbai, willing to travel the distance and withstand the infamous traffic for a taste of Goa on a weekday or weekend. If your next visit to India does not take you to Goa, you can be sure to get a taste of its flavours in Mumbai!
Mumbai’s iconic treasure – the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, holds a culinary gem that serves authentic Japanese Cuisine – with every ingredient flown down from Japan! Established by world-renowned and award-winning Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto, Wasabi is the Morimoto restaurants’ flagship property in the country. With true Japanese flavours curated in unique presentation styles, this is a fine dining experience that is truly special in Mumbai. It has in fact been recognized as one of Asia’s top 50 Best Restaurants 2018, along with many other accolades to its credit. An indulgent experience, that if you do get the opportunity, you should not miss!
Must-Try: White Fish Carpaccio, Black Cod Miso, Morimoto Ramen Soup, Wasabi Crème Brulee
This is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to exploring the culinary scene of the city that never sleeps. If you wish to know about more these treasure troves of food bliss, then maybe plan a trip for a weekend to experience just to explore what the city’s kitchens have in store for you!
During my recent travels, my work took me on a trip to the ever buzzing, cultural and animated Singapore, where I had the opportunity to stay at the Hotel Jen Tanglin Singapore by Shangri-La. Connected to the famous Tanglin Mall that offers high-class brands, shops and dining options, the hotel is also conveniently located close to emergency and provisional services and offers daily shuttle services to the famous Orchard Street and the Central Business District. Hotel Jen Singapore is a great stop for travellers seeking both leisure and business, alike, in Singapore, with modern facilities, knowledgeable and friendly staff, and accessibility to the main districts of the city.
The hotel is host to 565 rooms and suites, with seven different categories. For my two-night duration in Singapore, I chose to stay in the superior room at the hotel, my little haven for two days that offered the best of comfort and the most remarkable view of Singapore city. With innovative working areas such as a portable laptop table, smart storage facilities in-room, and empty mini-fridges for guests to stock up with the best of their own preferences, the rooms here cater perfectly to every millennial traveller, staying for either or both business and leisure purposes. Every corner of the building provides USB charging stations and has high-speed internet and wi-fi services, so guests always have access to technology and are well connected.
Superior in many ways, the room internal space is cosy and chic, and has everything you need for a relaxing stay. Choose to work comfortably on the sofa with a portable laptop table or take calls at the well-equipped desk. Perfect for modern travellers there is a mini-fridge for you to fill and also a 24 hour room service.
The rooms are Superior in more than one way, the interiors and space is stylish and sleek, with everything you need for a relaxing stay – from luxurious linens to Wi-Fi.
Jen Tanglin Singapore has an array of dining options for travellers on-the-go, as well as for those looking for a more formal meal. J65 is the all-day dining option that features an interactive open-kitchen island. The seafood on ice concept is huge here, enticing guests to try multicultural preparations, in addition to the other options and cuisines at the buffet. I had heard a lot about Ah Hoi’s Kitchen, a nod to the more traditional and authentic cuisine of Singapore, which has earned its own reputation as one of the must-visit restaurants of the city.
Although there are limited options for vegetarians here, I hear from many friends who have visited in the past that the irresistible Chilli Crab, the sizzling Char Kway Teow and other Singapore classics are not to be missed, if you are a fan. Jen’s Kitchen On-the-Go is exactly as the name suggests, a great pit stop to pick up your morning coffee and portable breakfast or power snack before you head out the door to get on with your day in the bustling city.
For those who still need their fitness fix on holiday, you can avail of the state-of-the-art equipment at the 24-hour fitness centre of the hotel. But that’s not all! Jen Tanglin Singapore also offers a jogging route for those who prefer their outdoor workouts, with different trails taking you to different parts of the city. If, on the other hand, you are looking for a more relaxing activity, why not take a dip in the 30-metre swimming pool of the hotel or unwind in the outdoor whirlpool? Or simply get a rejuvenating massage from a choice of many treatments at the Essene Vale Spa.
So, whether you are racing against the clock on a business trip or just looking for a young, modern place to unwind millennial style, Jen Tanglin Singapore by Shangri-La is the new address to explore on your next visit to this buzzing Southeast Asian island country!
Travel skincare is vital because while skincare might be the last thing on your mind when you are in the vacation mode, but it is still important as sun, sand and sea can take its own toll on the skin. And on a beach vacation, you need to be extra careful to keep your skin safe from the sun, sand and sea.
Also, we all want to look the best on our holidays it is hard to tug along a lot of makeup on holidays for all the extra weight and space they take when you have a limited amount of baggage allowance that you want to save for some holiday shopping.
With a lot of trial and error, I have finally got my holiday makeup and skincare down to the T, and only carry what I will absolutely need.
Read along if you want to find out what I took away with me to my latest beach holiday, and obviously I have included both skincare and makeup essentials in one blog to make your life easy.
Skincare Essentials – Sun Protection on the top
Sunscreen is the first thing I think because it’s always my priority when I travel to the beach. Don’t forget to take along a strong sunscreen, the higher the SPF the better sun protection it gives. If you are planning to stay in the sun for long that SPF 50 sunscreen is an option to carry along. A sunscreen spray is a smart choice because is super-easy to apply to those hard to reach areas and doesn’t require rubbing in. I also make sure that my face cream also has good SPF in it which I use in evenings or sometimes over my sunscreen on the face.
A good conditioner and hair mask for your tresses is a must-have as sun-kissed beach waves need more moisture than you think. I used the conditioner every day and hair mask once in 3 days for that extra nourishment when my hairs felt dry.
Don’t forget an all-purpose moisturizer like Nivea Soft, which can use as a hand cream, body moisturizer and even face moisturizer. The salt in the sea and sun can especially make the skin dry so this is a good one to carry.
I would recommend a night serum too, as that can nourish your skin in the night as you get your beauty sleep. Wet wipes are also a another must for any holiday, as you can keep yourself fresh and also manage any mess-ups if they happen. Below is the list of my beach vacation skincare favourites:
NIVEA Soft Moisturising Cream for face, hands and body: Price: £4.99 for 200ml Buy Now
Coola Sport Sunscreen Spray SPF 30 Unscented Price: £ 30 Buy Now
Wet Ones Be Fresh Original 12 Antibacterial Wipes: Price: £ 1.15 Buy Now
Clarins – Mission Perfection Serum Price: £54 Buy Now
Avene Anti-Ageing Sunscreen SPF50+ Price: £ 19 Buy Now
Avène Hydrance Light-UV Emulsion: Price: £ 15.50 Buy Now
Philip Kingsley Body Building Weightless Conditioner: Price: £ 62 Buy Now
No one wants to be holed up doing makeup while there is so much out there to explore and do, and when its hot outside heavy makeup on the skin doesn’t go well. But still, we do need to look our best every time we step out. So how can I forget my favourite travel-friendly makeup products when talking about beauty and skincare.
So Without any ado, I will just go ahead and share the list of my makeup favourites that are my best beach buddies as well.
Bobbi Brown Primer Plus Radiance SPF 35: A face primer that enhances the quality of your foundation, blurs imperfections and illuminates the complexion
Bare Minerals Original Foundation (Golden Tan) – I only used this foundation as it’s not at all heavy and very natural looking. The foundation gives good medium coverage and buildable as well.
Bare Minerals Dew Mist Setting Spray: An amazing product that offers extended wear and gives your skin a fresh and natural-looking glow. I also used it as a spritz to refresh myself sometimes
Clinique Chubby Lash Mascara: Mascara for evenings and dressy times, which I simply love because it lets me manage without fake lashes at all on holidays
Lipstick Queen Saint, Pinky Nude: This is the shade I love because it gives me that perfect glamorous, yet less heavy makeup look that is just right for the vacations
Lancôme Juicy Shaker Lip Gloss, 372 Berry Tale: As berry-licious as its name, I love this natural lip gloss that gives all the gloss and nourishment I need
Roller Liner Liquid Eyeliner: This true matter liquid eyeliner is my favourite pick and I prefer the brown shade as it looks less harsh and is much more fun on holidays
Bobbi Brown Make Up Remover: An extra-gentle waterproof makeup remover which removes long-wearing eye and lip makeup effectively. My absolute beauty tip – Never ever sleep with makeup on, no matter how tired you are.
So, that pretty much sums up my skincare and makeup kit for a beach vacation. Now, don’t forget to pack your essential beauty and skincare products next time you travel and look gorgeous on your next holiday.
Do share below if you find your essential beauty travel products, I am always looking for new ideas and suggestions.
Perhaps every fashionista is aware of the “fashion burnout” phenomenon when one runs out of ideas with outfits. Well, I have experienced it more than once and luckily found solace right in my accessory collection.
It’s just about picking the right pieces and you will surely be able to amp your style in the most effortless ways. Summer or winter, there are several accessories that can come to your rescue with even the most basic outfits such as your favourite LBD or comfy denim that you would want to take a notch higher. Here is my list of accessories that will always be your best friend (besides diamonds, of course!!) 🙂 when it comes to fashion.
Necklace – A statement necklace can instantly transform your look from casual to formal and add the oomph factor that you may just need to elevate even an ordinary ensemble. And you can choose a simple gold or silver chain for chic casual dressing. A beaded, layered necklace is another in-trend accessory for all occasions
Cap – A cap is a perfect accessory if you are looking for a piece that is fashionable and utilitarian at the same time. There is so much to explore with caps, from woolly pom poms and snug beanies in winters to classic fedoras and schoolboy hats in summers. And the best part is that most of the caps are not weather-specific which means that you will literally be spoilt for choice.
Sunglasses or Eyeglasses – How can you forget your favourite shades when it comes to amping up your style! Invest in a collection of sunglasses or eyeglasses that are just right for your face shape and you’ll surely have something to play with when accessorizing your outfits at any time of the year. You could opt for the retro-cat eye sunglasses, classic aviators or oversized shapes to complement your outfits and moods.
Click Here to check some of the latest styles from EyeBuyDirect.com
Footwear- Footwear is an accessory that can make or break your ensemble. So you should bear in mind what is in-trend and what looks good with your ensemble to nail the look. Shoes and boots make ideal winter companion while sandals and slippers are great for summer dressing. Wear heels or flats according to the occasion and you’ll be able to ace on your style quotient.
Handbags – Right now, the slick bucket bags are my hot favourite and I love them for the retro vibe they bring to just any outfit. You can pair your casual look with a sleek Hobo, a classic tote or a cool crossbody bag while a glittery clutch or a shimmering sling bag makes an ideal companion for a night-out ensemble.
Belts- A belt on your dresses or jeans can surely get you all the attention you deserve, besides the utility it offers. While a classic black patent leather will never go out of vogue, you can play with colours, widths and materials if you want to be more experimental with your look. And don’t forget to coordinate it with your footwear and handbag!
Earrings- The right earrings are perhaps the most foolproof way to add a punch to your casual and formal dressing. Stock up on hoops, studs and danglers and you’ll definitely have something or the other every time you feel like going an extra mile to look stylish.
Watch- Watch your watch because it surely has the potential to take your casual and formal dressing to the next level. I recommend adding the staples like a leather strap watch, one with a gold chain and a studded one to your collection because these will have you covered for casual, formals and holiday accessorizing.
Hair Accessories- Hair accessories are the favourite part of accessory shopping because I always find something that I fall in love with and still does not cost a fortune. I love to wear the studded hairpins on parties while the pretty bows and bands are reserved for casual outings.
Rings- Though you wouldn’t think much about rings when it comes to amping up your style, they actually have a lot to do with power dressing. For me, the right ring can be an attention grabber. Of course, you will have your wedding or engagement ring on, but you can slip on a large statement piece to have all eyes on you.
Lights and lamps on windows and streets, the aroma of mulled wine wafting through lanes and avenues, and the sprinkle of fresh snowflakes kissing your skin – this is Christmas in London! And we are here to offer suggestions on how best to enjoy Christmas in UK’s capital, this year!
Get your Go Pro or any other camera ready to capture the best of Christmas experiences in London
View from the Shard with Champagne
Situated at a whopping height of 800 ft., the Shard is one of London’s most iconic edifices and is the largest building of Western Europe. Book tickets to visit the ‘The View from the Shard’s observation deck, situated on the 69th floor, for a postcard-like, almost surreal view of the capital draped in a sparkling snow blanket, and dotted with Christmas lights. Share this unforgettable holiday moment with your loved one and a glass of Moët & Chandon bubbly! Learn More
Champagne breakfast at Searcys at the Gherkin
Enjoy breakfast with a view and the best from Laurent-Perrier’s champagne range at Searcys at the Gherkin! Yet another iconic building of the capital that offers a magnificent view of London, as you and your friend and family pamper yourselves to a luxurious breakfast, prepared with the freshest of ingredients, and accompanied with Laurent-Perrier champagne, cocktails and other beverage options, for a wholesome festive meal. Learn More
Mayfair 34 – Bauble Décor and Special Cocktail
34 Mayfair is a signature ‘grill restaurant’ located at Mayfair at Grosvenor Street, sourcing the finest quality of meat and ingredients, from selected parts of the world. But the ‘Miracle at 34 Mayfair’ is what we really want to introduce you to! With the expertise of acclaimed florist Jane Wadham, on the festive occasion of Christmas, the restaurant will be decorated across its entirety in lights, 14,000 decorations and most importantly 8,400 baubles – a Christmas dreamland that will leave you mesmerized! To add to the festivities, the restaurant also offers a special Moët & Chandon Champagne laced cocktail, that truly make the holidays feel celebratory. Learn More
Natural History Museum Ice Rink
Here’s an experience that is traditional to the spirit of London in England! Gliding on smooth ice, under sprinkling snow and beaming lights over a towering Christmas tree! With the Waterhouse building as its backdrop, the scene of the Christmas tree in the middle of the ice rink is magical, and a great way to spend time with family and loved ones. The arena also features Café Bar with a bird’s eye view of the rink, and offers a range of cakes, wine, beer and other finer spirits. There are also a multitude of other activities that one can pursue during Christmas at the Natural History Museum. Learn More
Bustronome London
We have visited quite a few ideas of discovering London and her highlights through aerial views. Now let’s explore the city on wheels while enjoying a luxurious gastronomic meal on board! The Bustronome London is a suave double-decker bus that tours and visits London’s most renowned monuments while providing a fine dining experience of a 4 to 6-course meal, as you go. This Christmas, savour a more carefully curated menu and discover the nooks and avenues of London in all their festive glory! Learn More
Covent Garden
Covent Garden is one of the most famous piazzas of London, and it comes alive during the holidays for a wholesome experience of festive eating, and activities, and a great spot to finish your Christmas gift shopping. But the biggest attraction of all is Covent Garden’s archetypal 55 ft. long Christmas tree, decorated with over 30,000 lights. The magic of these lights spreads even further, with 115,000 glittering lights illuminating the neighbourhood – a magical haven that will take your breath away! Learn More
Kew Royal Botanic Gardens
Visit the Kew Royal Botanic Gardens this Christmas, and bear witness to a spectacular display of festive lights across the grounds. This includes the glittering spiral trees, dynamic laser projections that illuminate Temperate House, a cascade of glowing silvery shards at Treetop Walkway, vines with changing ribbons of light, mysterious fairy-fire known as Will-o’the Wisp, the singing Holly Bushes, the thousand twinkling pea-lights in the Tunnel of Light, the flickering Fire Garden, and the Palm House Pond finale with jumping jets of light dancing across the water to much-loved Christmas classics! Learn More
Hyde Park Winter Wonderland
While Hyde Park is known for its lush green during spring and summer, it is equally, if not more, appreciated during winter, especially at Christmas. Welcome to the Hyde Park Winter Wonderland – a destination in itself filled with attractions for people of all ages! Jaw-dropping acts in the Circus MegaDome, a dynamic Christmas market lined with stalls of mulled wine and treats, the classic ice rink for skaters and drama, snow and lights, this has to be on your list! Learn More
Musicals, Plays and Performances
One of the greatest treasures of London is its theatres for live performances, and the holiday season beckons one to revisit the classic tales of Christmas. Relive the thrill of visiting Ebenezer Scrooge’s past, present and future in ‘A Christmas Carol’ or be spellbound by the graceful and magical performances in ‘The Nutcracker’ – a show is a great way to catch up on quality time with your family!
Skate at Somerset House
Yet another skating extravaganza to treat your family or special someone with – a night at the Somerset House ice rink with its 40ft Christmas tree. While Somerset will once again offer its beautiful rink for regular skating sessions and for a dynamic DJ series, this Christmas, for the first time in 20 years, a special skating session on the night of 7th December, will allow you to glide all night until the crack of dawn, at the Skate & Exhibition All-nighter – so get booking! Learn More
And a few options for outside London, for a day out!
Bicester Village Shopping
In the heart of Oxfordshire lies the famous Bicester Village, housing the world’s luxury brands – from Alexandra McQueen, Temperly London, Salvatore Ferragamo and Burberry, to Mont Blanc, Links of London, Hour Glass Cosmetics and Calvin Klein – you have the biggest names of the industry in one neighbourhood. The experience is made even more luxurious with a dedicated concierge service, valet parking and eclectic fine dining options. Your luxury Christmas shopping experience could not be made simpler and more luxurious itself, than this! Learn More
Blenheim Palace
Yet another fairy-tale-like image of Christmas, with adventures and mysteries filled behind the palace doors and on its grounds – an Illuminated Light Trail through the festive gardens, the ‘Alice in the Palace’ experience with State Rooms opulently decorated and themed around Alice in Wonderland and a magical and royal Christmas market with the Palace as the backdrop. There is something here for everyone! Learn More
London is adorned in its most magical
avatar during the Christmas holidays, and whether you are a citizen or just a
tourist, you will never feel the spirit of Christmas, like you do here!
Get festive with our Christmas gifts suggestions for 2019. Discover some of the best presents you can buy for your friends and loved ones, and bring some festive cheer along.
GIFTS FOR HER
Under £ 10
Lush Beauty Stocking Fillers £2.75 – £14.95, Buy Now
A number of miniature versions of the handmade-cosmetic brand’s best-sellers from bath-bombs, to highlighter sticks and lip scrubs, all available in a varied but affordable price range. Price: £2.75 – £14.95 Click here to buy
2. Real Techniques Mini Brush Tree Ornaments £5.99, Buy Now
The top seller Buffing Brush in a mini size, with a sleek, holographic foil handle, that can even be used as a tree ornament, to add some sparkle. Price: £5.99 Click here to buy
The brand’s best-selling Ready Steady Glow Daily AHA Tonic; a skin-resurfacing formula that gently exfoliates and brightens your complexion. Price: £10 Click here to buy
4. Origins Ginger Greetings Skincare Gift Set £10, Buy Now
A trio of guilt-free products for your skin with the goodness and warmth of ginger during the cold winter months. With a body wash, body cream and hand lotion, the products from this trio can also be given separately as stocking fillers. Price: £10 Buy Now
The brand offers a number of kits in their collection, from sheet to gel masks, that one can use on different parts of the face and are ideal for travel. Price: £10 – £20 Click here to buy
6. Lipstick Queen Party Favour Mini Shadeshifter Duo £16, Buy Now
A duo of two colour-transforming lipsticks, that work with each individual’s pH balance to create a tangerine or petal pink tint. Price: £16 Click here to buy
7. Charlotte Tilbury Mini Hot Lips Charms £25, Buy Now
A trip of Charlotte’s best-sellers from her latest Hot Lips 2 Collection. Three versatile shades that are perfect to use during holiday parties, and also exciting and luxurious stocking fillers. Price £25 Click here to buy
8. Huda Beauty Obsessions Palettes £25-£27, Buy Now
A plethora of compact palettes, which are perfect for travel and that each carry nine shades in matte, satin and pressed glitter finishes. With 16 different palettes, including the latest three Nude Obsessions Palettes, each of these pigments packs a punch! Price: £25-£27 Click here to buy
A timeless beret that comfortably fits around one’s head. Stylish, the ribbed detailing, and a variety of modern colours make this a chic accessory to your winter wardrobe. Price £18 Buy Now
Under £50
10. Foreo Luna Play Plus Electric Facial Cleanser £39, Buy Now
A silicone-based 2-zone electric brush cleanser that can be used on-the-go to unclog pores from impurities and pollutants, and give a fresh glow to the skin. Price: £39 Click here to buy
11. Bobbi Brown Soft Smolder Long-Wear Eye Kit £45, Buy Now
A group of three cream shadow stick in versatile neutral colours and black mascara that will help anyone achieve a fabulous smokey-eye, without the fuss. Price: £45 Click here to buy
12. Links of London Effervescence Sterling Silver & Pearl Drop Earrings £45, Buy Now
This dainty pair of drop earrings made from sterling silver and lustrous pearls, are a subtle way to add sophistication to an everyday look. Price: £45 Click here to buy
13. Benefit Queen of the Camp Makeup Gift Set £42.50, Buy Now
A collection of Benefit’s most popular products, now in a reusable gifting tin! With a full-sized POREfessional face primer, Hoola Matte Bronzer, 24-hour Brow Setter and BADfal BANG! Mascara, a girl is set to look her best, even on the go. Price £42.50 Buy Now
An 18 shades palette with colours that flatter all skin tones, this versatile palette can be used to create a myriad of looks for everyday wear or for any special occasion. £56, Buy Now
15.Estée Lauder Pure Colour Envy Sculpting Lipstick Collection Makeup Gift Set £54, Buy Now
A collection of five lipsticks from the Pure Colour Envy Sculpting Edition, with shades that range from everyday nudes to powerful reds and deep plums – every shade that you need to add to your lipstick arsenal can be found in here! Price: £54 Buy Now
16. Pandora Sparkling Square Open Ring £70, Buy Now
A glinting rose-gold band with two equally brilliant stones on either side, which gives it a unique floating-like effect. Wear it on its own or stack it up with other rings, either way, this piece is a stand-out! Price: £70 Buy Now
Finding a perfume to make your signature scent is always easy with Jo Malone London. But why not help someone discover it for their favourite through experimenting with this pack of 5 exquisite mini-colognes? Price: £90 Click here to buy
18. DAFNI Go Straight Hair Straightening Brush, Black £99.95, Buy Now
A mini version of the hair appliance, which is portable and small enough to travel with, but still delivers the same results as its full-sized counterpart. The kit comes complete with the charging cable and a 2-year warranty. Price: £99.95 Click here to buy
Above £100
19. Anima Vinci Feel Good Perfume Potions £20 – £150, Buy Now
Nathalie Vinciguerra has bottled eight fragrances and categorized them into Uplifting & Refreshing Benefits or Balancing & Relaxing Benefits, to create a positive impact on one’s heart, mind and spirit. Why not gift one of these sensory fragrances this Christmas? Or instead, get the ‘Discovery Set’ and use each sample bottle as a stocking filler! Price: Discovery Set – £20 Full-sized Perfume Bottle – £150 Click here to buy
This is a classic leather bag that can add life, even to a simple outfit like jeans and a t-shirt or be the subject of admiration at your next Christmas party. The padlock detail and DKNY embellishment add the style factor to this otherwise simple, but sophisticated, shoulder bag. Price: £170 Click here to buy
A woman can never have a complete wardrobe without one of these luxurious babies in it. Ranging from small cardholders to oversized totes, and everything in between, including clutches, shopper bags and crossbody bags, there is bag in this collection, made to suit every woman! Price: £29 – £249 Click here to buy
22. MICHAEL Michael Kors Canteen Leather Woven Cross Body Bag, Bright Ruby £195, Buy Now
A trendy, circular, conpact, bright red cross-body bag with intricate weave detailing, that is big enough to store valuables and comes with a detachable strap. Price: £195 Buy Now
Another wardrobe staple for men are ties and John Lewis & Partners offer a wider range of fabrics, patterns and colours to choose from for formal or casual occasions. Price: £25-£30 Click here to buy
A pair of steel cufflinks that make a great accessory for me. The simple, yet elegant, design allows for versatility to be worn on any occasion, whether it be for a meeting or a Christmas party or a semi-formal brunch. Price: £49 Click here to buy
3.Clarins ClarinsMen Cracker Skincare Gift Set £10, Buy Now
A duo containing a refreshing facewash and a moisture balm, to keep your skin happy this winter. The individual products also make for cute stocking fillers. Price: £10 Buy Now
4.Happy Socks Crossword Socks, One Size, Pack of 2 £14.95, Buy Now
A pack of 2 socks – a chic pair of blacks that can be worn for work or formal wear, and a more fun pair with a bright crossword design, for happy feet. The best of both worlds! Price: £14.95 Buy Now
Under £100
5. Philips QP6520/25 OneBlade Pro Styler and Shaver, Black £59.99, Buy Now
An automatic trimmer, shaver and styler that works on any lengths of hair to give clean lines and precision. It also comes with added warranty of two years. Price: £59.99 Click here to buy
6. Polo Ralph Lauren leather billfold wallet with coin pocket £69, Buy Now
A plush leather wallet that is a signature piece from the Polo Ralph Lauren line! Its functionality and sleek design make it usable for everyday and for special occasions too. Price – £69 Click here to buy
A belt may seem like an unusual gift, but not if it’s one from a premium and trustworthy brand such as Lacoste, and this reversible belt gives one the option of a buckle or push plaque fastening. Price: £72 Click here to buy
A casual regular shirt from GANT always feels special, especially because of the soft brushed oxford cotton fabric that makes it comfortable and luxurious. It’s a favourite in the male wardrobe! Price: £90 Click here to buy
This universally flattering men’s fragrance is a luxurious gift for your someone special. With classic notes of bergamot, peppery rose and oakmoss, this romantic, yet sophisticated scent can become his signature. Price: £185 Click here to buy
GINS & WHISKEYS
Chase Williams Oink Grapefruit Gin £38.50, Buy Now
A citrusy twist to everyone’s favourite juniper berry Gin! This spirit bottle will make itself comfortably at home in a collector’s bar! Price: £38.50 Buy Now
2.Johnnie Walker Black Label 12 Year Old Blended Scotch Whisky, 70cl £21, Buy Now
Considered one of the most premium blends with 30 malt and grain scotch Whiskies, the Johnnie Walker Black Label 12-Year-Old, is a timeless gift that anyone would love to receive on Christmas, or otherwise! Price: £21 Buy Now
3. Jack Daniels Bourbon Whiskey Tennessee Honey Gift Set £37.95, Buy Now
A perfect gift for the festive season, to keep warm and savour the sweet, smokey, heady and heavenly notes, all through Christmas, with fellow whiskey lovers. Price: £37.95 Buy Now
GIFTS FOR CHILDREN
Hotel Chocolat The Festive Wreath Cookies & Caramel £8, Buy Now
A festive wreath made of 50% milk chocolate, cookies and caramel flavours that are small enough to even be used as stocking fillers. Price: £8 Click here to buy
2. Blue Planet Collectible Plush Toys £17, Buy Now
Gift your little one a snuggle companion with these soft toys! In partnership with BBC, these toys, which realistically resemble furry friends – from tigers and pandas to elephants and sea otters, are sure to put a smile on a child’s face! Price: £17 Click here to buy
The hj Kids Junior Outdoor Indoor Trampoline with Handle is a great gift for active kids, who like playtime to be a bit bouncy. It is not too large to take up a lot of space and is a perfect fit in your backyard. Price: £38.99 Click here to buy
Know a child who is passionate or even inclined to music? Why not gift him a music instrument to pursue his passion? This Stagg Classical Linen Guitar comes in an assortment of sizes, so you can pick one that is most appropriate. Price: £42.50 Click here to buy
5. LEGO Disney Frozen II 41167 Arendelle Castle Village £67.50, Buy Now
A set of 500 pieces of lego to construct Elsa’s three-storey Castle, complete with the throne room, bedroom and attic, baker’s stall, fishmonger’s stall with a small dock and a rowing boat with oars. Price: £67.50 Click here to buy
6. Warner Bros. Harry Potter Tour £14 – £110, Buy Now
A thrilling surprise for every Potterhead! A tour of the magical wonderland of Hogwarts and wizard filled London at the Warner Bros. Studios. Take a tour of the Harry Potter sets at the studio and stop by at other locations where the movie has been filmed in Central London.
When in doubt, turn to Virgin Experiences for a whole array of options for everyone. From gift vouchers and spa experiences, to gourmet experiences and hot air balloon rides, you cannot go wrong with one of these. Price: £25 onwards Click here to buy
Treat your loved one to an experience of Spa and care, at location of their choice. Vouchers for facial treatments and body massages are available at various price points. Price: £40 – £125 or more Click here to buy
3. Staycation
A pre-booked staycation for a break from the hustle and bustle of the city, without ever leaving it! One of our top recommendations in London – The Arch London. Read all about it on our blog post.
4. Holiday
You can always gist a getaway to loved ones, for a memorable holiday. Log on to booking.com to plan a trip for yourself or someone you know has been waiting to do so. Link: www.booking.com
UNISEX GIFTS
1Fitbit Inspire HR smartwatch in black £90, Buy Now
The ultimate multitasker for those wanting to keep their health in check! From wireless syncing and personalised touchscreen display to a calorie, sleep, and breathing tracker, this is the ultimate present for anyone who puts health above all else! Price: £90 Click here to buy
Available in a number of shades and designs, this range of versatile digital camera models by Olympus are as stylish as they are efficient, and can make for not just a great tool in a photography enthusiast’s arsenal, but also an ultra-chic accessory with its stunning colours and leather finish. Price: £449 Click here to buy
Buy the latest in Apple’s phone series! With updated technology, latest in applications, water-resistance and a triple camera, this phone will be an efficient companion to any user. Price: £729 onwards Click here to buy
4. Apple Watch Stainless Steel Case with Milanese Loop £749, Buy Now
A smartwatch with the look of a classic piece. With all the latest features that can connect your iPhone and iWatch, this particular model comes with a stainless metal band of your choosing, to still give a sleek and sophisticated look. Price: £749 Click here to buy
You can never go wrong with an Apple Macbook for individuals across all ages. The versatility that Apple brings to its devices is inimitable in the industry, and everyone will appreciate the world’s most famous and leading laptop. Price: £949 onwards Click here to buy
A pack of two pillow mists, mildly floral scent, that is made from the cleanest of ingredients to provide your mind and your skin the good night’s sleep that you deserve! Price: £12 Click here to buy
Makes for a great present for the newlywed or with a new home! Champagne saucers are a must in everyone’s home to complete their barware. Price: £72 Click here to buy
For the plant lovers in your life, this gorgeous piece will also add value as a metallic Christmas decorative piece in their homes during the holidays. It will also keep very much in trend with foliage as home décor, with a bit of luxe and shine. Price: £84.95 Click here to buy
If there are any other suggestions that you think we should include, please leave a comment. Until then, enjoy the onset of the festivities and get ready to shop till you drop!
