TOBEFRANK & MOLYNEAUX- London Fashion Week Show- Blend Of Style & Sustainability

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! 

London Fashion Week AW18 in review

Fashion weeks lasts forever. Such is the impact of London Fashion Week. Though it is for a week or so, but one can reminisce it for longer period of time.

Undoubtedly, the biggest event in the fashion calendar of the UK. And once again, London Fashion week went over like rainbow this year. Let’s have a look at the high points of LFW AW18, a few designers whose contribution made the week even bigger and better.

Christopher Bailey, Burberry’s president and chief creative officer said goodbye to Burberry after 17 years

This year the brand caught the eye again. The reason, however, was something different. Reason being it was Christopher Bailey’s Last Burberry Show. Every celebrity showed up for his last show. The whole crowd was notably star-studded. Burberry created a capsule of reissued pieces from the Eighties and Nineties. The brand is now also selling its Rainbow Check collection, as part of an initiative to support charities that help LGBTQ, in store now. 

Ashish’s glittery London Fashion Week

Ashish showed his latest collection at London Fashion Week, and the highlights from the show were Glitter because, yes, there was a whole lot of glitter. Ashish’s inspirations this year were predictably unpredictable. He actually took his inspiration from the swinging Sixties, and his set was designed similar to that of a bazaar.

To adhere to the theme, many of his models stomped the catwalk holding plastic bags. There were very little things on the runway that didn’t sparkle. Many of the clothes were candy-striped in shimmering colours of the rainbow. Other items just had hints of glitter – like the embellished denim jacket, also multi-coloured trousers and jumpsuits with fringed sparkles.

Mulberry staged its first see-now-buy-now show at Spencer House, Princess Diana’s ancestral London home

The spring collection took in a patisserie palette, with pink satin ruffle skirts, linen suits with long. There were delicate printed dressed too in the collection. Mulberry celebrated the best of British style. The collection itself took its hint from English eccentricity. Models on the ramp wore ruffled ballet-inspired pumps with round fluted heels made an attempt in recalling China collection that one might expect to find in a grand British country house. Some even came draped with multicoloured gemstones. This year the see-now-buy-now show also marked a break from convention for Mulberry.

Some glamour from Temperley

This season, Temperley was highly inspired by the first female aviators, and the whole collection had a romantic, vintage feel to it. Temperley’s catwalk included military combats, stylish cropped trousers and a flattering cinched-in waist, and all-over sequined party frocks. The ramp was also highlighted with some perfect party outfits. Flowing bias cut dresses with a thigh-high front slit, sheer nude dresses, one kimono-wrap jumpsuit. the dresses provided strong scenery to the brand.


J.W. Anderson: One magical mix: Men’s, women’s and pre-collection all together on the runway for the first time

After 10 years, Northern-Irish designer Jonathan Anderson switched things up and presented both his menswear and womenswear collections at the same time in his very first mixed-gender format.

Their collection had a modest, naive feel to it including long, drop-waist dresses, swingy handkerchief hemlines, crinkled or pleated fabrics, ruffle details and light, fluttery layers done in an original J.W. pattern of yore, or in baby blue or pink. It was a big collection of knits, some edged with thick fringes, and others with fat doughnut shapes at the wrist and edges. The designer clearly chose to have fun with clothes and undoubtedly charmed the whole collection.

Aashni + Co Wedding Show – 2018 Show at Somerset House, London

Consider the World as your runway and every day will feel like a Fashion Show. Life is too short not to be happy. No doubt, there’s beauty in everything. But, in order to be irreplaceable, one must possess and do something different. Bigger and even better than before, Aashni + Co Wedding Show plans its return in 2018. It’s going to be extra rocking and will definitely transform UK’s leading culture.

After three successful residencies at The Dorchester, Mayfair, the show is continuing to outshine itself each year. This year it will be taking Place at Somerset House, London.

The event is lined up with a series of masterclasses. A series of masterclasses hosted by some of the most internationally respected names in styling, makeup artistry, wedding planning and the fashion and beauty blogosphere. Beauty blogger Kaushal; Bollywood makeup artist ShaanMu; fashion blogger Miss Style Fiesta; and wedding planner Vandana Mohan will be joining the masterclass.

I really believe that you can learn endless things if you listen as well as see things right in front of your eyes. Be the master and buy that class.  Ride into this wonderland show and recognize beautiful brides and fashionistas alike. Aashni is a trendsetter that continues to set a landmark standard in the South Asian fashion and bridal sector in the UK.

Explore the latest bridal and couture collections. Some of India and Pakistan’s established most celebrated designers will once again combine on the Capital to present their best of collections. The show will be spiced up with the leading names in fine jewellery, accessories and wedding/ occasion services. Get excited because it is the right opportunity for meeting your favourite and wish list designers and suppliers in person.

Brands to exhibiting in the Department of Clothing:

Sabyasachi, Tarun Tahiliani, Gaurav Gupta, Rimple & Harpreet Narula, Astha Narang, Bageecha, Elan, Gaurang, Mishru, Samant Chauhan, Shantanu & Nikhil, Shehla Chatoor, Shyamal & Bhumika and Varun & Nidhika.

Brands participating in the Department of Fine Jewellery:

Amrapali, Araaya, Birdhichand Ghanshyamdas Jewellers, Jaipur Gems, Jewels by Queenie, Khanna Jewellers, Moksh, Rose Diamonds and Sunita Shekhawat.

<
Brands participating in the Department for Jewellery and Accessories will be:
Aamir Naveed, Ahujasons, Ambreen Ahmed, Amishi London, Chakra, Isharya, Outhouse, Paraphernalia, Rani Pink, Rusaru, RWS, Shaan Mu and The Wedding House.

Say Hello to January as it brings the show. Let the season help you in browsing period for Summer brides and grooms. Aashni + Co Wedding Show 2018 will be curating the latest bridal, occasion wear and couture collections from the top tier of the South Asian design spectrum, alongside the leading brand names in jewellery, accessories and wedding services.

The splendid appearance of Somerset House will be done with floral styling by Zita Elze, who is an award-winning artist, designer, teacher, creator of the Living Embroidery Bridal collection and design consultant.


Quick Recap
: Aashni + Co Wedding Show
When: 21st January 2018
Where: Somerset House, Strand, London WC2R 1LA
Timings: 10.30am – 6.30pm
Ticket Price: £25 (Additional Masterclass Tickets to be announced shortly)

How to buy Tickets: Email or visit their website
Email:  www.wslondon.com
Website: weddingshow@aashniandco.com

When you know better, you do better. Don’t just dream. Do it. Explore it and Experience the new and latest trends in bridal fashion and jewellery. Join in this splendid event and give your year a better start ahead. So, What are your plans? Let me know in the comments section below.

Christmas Extravaganza on Nov 28 at Grosvenor House, London

It’s time to get your festive boots out with Christmas just around the corner. Christmas is one of the most awaited festivals in UK. The snow, the magnificent Christmas trees, lightings, sweets, and all the events happening across town make Christmas vibrant and lively. There are also several pop-up stores and activities which celebrate the merriment. One of the most awaited events this season for me is the Christmas Extravaganza organised by Ameet Uberoi. Ameet Uberoi is a chartered accountant by profession but is venturing into the world of organising events which showcase unique quality products. He also believes in giving back to the society by raising funds for underprivileged women and children through his events. ameet-uberoi-presents

The Christmas Extravaganza is an event showcasing works of several artists, jewellery, apparel, and accessories brands. The event is also associated with the Be Kind Movement. Be Kind Movement is a UK-based Charity which aims to empower underprivileged women and children in the UK and India by giving them an opportunity to lead a fulfilling and dignified life through their Acts of Kindness. The extravaganza is going to be held at the Albermarle Suite, Grosvenor House Hotel, London on the 28th of November. The event line-up includes exclusive brands from across the world like Belgravia Gallery, Chahat Limited, Zevar Limited, Vashti Collection and Zumruduanka. Each brand has something unique to offer this season.

Belgravia Gallery is run by a mother and a daughter, Anna Hunter and Laura Walford. The duo will be featuring artworks by HRH The Prince of Wales, Queen Victoria, Nelson Mandela and Lord Snowdon at the event.  The gallery works with many established and emerging artists and has a strong emphasis on art for charity. Chahat Limited is a luxury jewellery brand which creates hand-crafted versatile jewellery pieces that are bold and elegant. Apart from their jewellery collection, the brand would also be launching a new line of handbags and stoles at the event. Zevar Limited is another jewellery brand showcasing a completely different and traditional collection of jewellery which is unique to India. Artisans make the handcrafted pieces in remote villages with semi-precious stones. The pieces are inspired by traditional Indian art, colours, prints and more which make them ethnic. Vashti Collections is an apparel brand showcasing its gowns and anarkalis embroidered with intricately fine stone and thread work, on a canvas of beautiful vibrant materials. Zumruduanka is a luxury brand established by sisters Nimet and Kiymet Ulubay. They would be showcasing a collection of chic and stylish tops, skirts and nightgowns made from embroidered lace.

I am excited to go to this event because of the collection of diverse and unique brands. What makes this event even more special is the association with the Be Kind Movement. It is great when you can celebrate the festive season with your friends and family while helping others.

So mark your calendars for the 28th of November for the Christmas Extravaganza. I am looking forward to this event and would love to see you all there. Comment and let me know if you are excited for the event as well or if you have any favourite events happening in your city.

Braun India Fashion Week London 2016 Review

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

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

The Opulence of Diwali  – Festive Event Review

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What better way to spend a bank holiday, than to go to a celluloid inspired fashion and lifestyle exhibition. BollyGoods Edition 2, London, a high end platform showcasing the culture of Indian Cinema was held on May 2nd at The Dorchester, Mayfair.
BollyGoods-1

Bollygoods-4

BollyGoods is bringing all things bollywood together in one place, it was founded by Promila Jain Bahri, hosted by Shivani Ahluwalia. The lovely décor and as usual great statement pieces were unveiled by Gauri Khan, an Indian Film producer, interior designer and wife of the most loved superstar, Shah Rukh Khan.

BollyGoods-3

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

BollyGoods-2

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

Bollygoods-5

BollyGoods Edition 2 Comes to London this May 2016

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

Kriti Sanon in jewellery designed by Tarun Tahiliani in collaboration with Shri Hari Diagems
For audiences who enjoy the taste of the cinematic world, this is the perfect opportunity to bring the celluloid art and aesthetic into their own home.

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

Gauri Khan

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

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

Shri Hari Diagems official jewellery designers for Mastani in Bajirao Mastani (pic 2)
BollyGoods was incepted Promila Jain Bahri, a Delhi-based entreprenueur and design fanatic. She is a key influencer in India’s fashion and retail space, and launched the first domestic chilrendswear label – Li’l Tomatoes – which has grown to over one hundred stores across the nation. She started BollyGoods to celebrate and share the creativity of Bollywood with a wider, global audience.

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

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

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

Available to buy from www.ChilliTickets.com #BollyGoodsLDN