Category Archives: Fashion

Indo western and ethnic fashion wear

Summer Style for the Senor !

Summer Style for the Senor !

It is officially the season for upping your style game. Be the dapper gentleman you have always wanted to be by stocking up with these sweltering summer necessities.

AVIATORS

It’s a scorching summer again and what better time than now to whip out those cools sunglasses. There are different styles and frames that circle the fashion radar, but no pair is as cool as the aviator. These metal-rimmed sunnies ooze that cool-dude appeal that everyone wants.

Classic pair of aviators never goes out of style.

Classic pair of aviators never goes out of style.

CHEERFUL TIE

This weather might drain you out, but that is still no excuse to shy away from sporting formal clothes. Remember, your boardroom meetings require you to be at your dapper best. Pair a lightweight suit with an equally lightweight cotton tie.

BRIGHT SWIMWEAR

Who said festive colors are meant only for the ladies? There is nothing sexier than a man who can exude sex appeal in a pair of bright swimming trunks. The lively colors and the bold prints will definitely make a few heads turn. Don’t forget to take a dunk in the pool while wallowing in all the attention.

Do: Make sure your trunks come up to your mid-thigh and no longer.

Don’t: Please wear those speedos unless you have the physique of an athlete.

 

THE BOAT SHOE

This 30’s crowning jewel has found its way back into the realm of fashionable footwear – yes, the boat shoe is back. You don’t have to be the blue-blooded sailor anymore to carry off this yacht staple; thanks to brands like Sebago and Timberland, it is now at the top of every gentleman’s “it” list. Ditch the whites and browns and pick something sprightly like tri-tone colors, neon soles or stripped patterns.

Do: Team them with a pair of knee-length shorts or fitted jeans.

Don’t: Never ever wear them with socks.

Boat Shoes

Boat Shoes

 

70’s RINGER TEE

One of the best things about summer is that it gives you a chance to relive your favorite era of fashion. The retro singer tee is perfect for this weather. The single solid color with Continue reading “Summer Style for the Senor !” »

Color Me Red ;)

Color Me Red ;)

Yes, red is a tough one to crack and a color so easy to go wrong with. But in this case, the idiom ‘better safe than sorry’ can be ruled out with some easy-do advice and tips. Dare to experiment with a variety of tones of this color. Mix and match to create a stunning impression on your better half, this season.

Anne Hathaway makes a style statement in this bold color block  Roksanda Illincic dress

Anne Hathaway makes a style statement in this bold color block Roksanda Illincic dress

Wardrobe

After taking a backseat the last couple of fashion seasons, making way for nude, red is back with a bang, with fashion brands churning out a number of bold hues to “cheer” up even the dullest moods. Research says that red denotes power and confidence and has the ability to boost one’s self-esteem. But avoid an overkill. Here’s how:

Red n Shocking pink

Red n Shocking pink

To begin with, make sure you have the following:

•Red coat / cardigan

•Formal red top

•Red dress (of any length)

•Lace lingerie in red

These are your wardrobe essentials no matter what age group you fall in. Choose a shade you prefer: From blood red to cherry or a deep maroon, and learn to use it to your advantage. For example, if you wear a red dress, you need not apply a red lip color or wear red shoes with it. Go for neutral tones if you can’t think of any other color to team it with. Stick to solids since they are easy to mix-and-match; tone-on-tone works well too. However, if feeling particularly adventurous and bold, try color-blocking. Pick a shade of pink or orange to go with the red. But remember, this one is not for the faint-hearted. Take a fashion-savvy friend’s help or the store stylist’s assistance if confused about the look. Choose with care.

Solid red trousers paired with neutrals

Solid red trousers paired with neutrals

 

Beauty

In Asia, red denotes all things auspicious. There’s a red to suit every skin tone. Choose according to what looks best on you and experiment with it.

If you want a rich look, apply the lipstick straight from the stick. Start from the middle of Continue reading “Color Me Red ;)” »

Glamaholic Men… accessorize the right way !

Glamaholic Men… accessorize the right way !

Men, men and men…cant live with them or without them. Edgy accessories like bow ties to chelsea boots can make every man a clooney in no time 😉

Bow tie - Derby attire with a pop of style

Bow tie – Derby attire with a pop of style

TAKE A BOW

These stylish and upbeat bow ties are the dandy’s version of the skinny tie. And the best part is a ‘tux is not mandatory’.

Keep It Classic: To all the men, know that a subtly dotted bow tie with a tuxedo is error-proof.

model wrapped up in a sexy bow tie

model wrapped up in a sexy bow tie

Shine On: A silk lacquered bow tie adds zing to a formal ensemble.

Play It Up: Contrast bold patterns to always make a statement.

Focus Point: Make the bow tie the loudest part of your look. Pair a colorful one with an all-white or all-black ensemble.

Stunning Ryan Gosling with an edgy contrast.

Stunning Ryan Gosling with an edgy contrast.

Tone on Tone: Keep it cool with a same color bow tie as the shirt.

Pattern Profiles: Include patterns of varied sizes like: stripes, gingham, plaid, dot, paisley, houndstooth and herringbone etc.

 

GET THE BOOT

Sleeker and more modern than ever, the Chelsea boot works just as well with a suit as it does with beat-up jeans.

The right pair of pants is key

Wear pants with a narrow bottom, so that the pants sit tight, just a little way up the leg of the boot. You need to see just enough of the elastic gusset to know it’s a Chelsea boot – otherwise it just looks like a very plain shoe.

Chelsea boots  - every man should own one of these

Chelsea boots – every man should own one of these

Invest in shoe trees

They help shoes keep their shape and also stop them from cracking because the leather doesn’t crease as Continue reading “Glamaholic Men… accessorize the right way !” »

The Pioneers of Indian Fashion !

The Pioneers of Indian Fashion !

Fashion is a huge industry in India and with globalization, India has placed itself on the map creating its own unique identity of fusion with beautiful blend and combination of various dressing styles in the country. Here’s a look at my favorite fashion designers from India.

Tarun's Bridal Collection

Tarun’s Bridal Collection

Tarun Tahiliani – He is one of the most celebrated fashion designers of India. He brought a revolution in the field of fashion in 1987 by opening the first fashion boutique in India ‘Ensemble’ He established the Tarun tahiliani design studio situated in New Delhi. His own brand label is known as ‘Ahilian’. His niche work on ethnic textiles using  beads and semi precious stones made his collections a huge success. Love struck by Vimal Model ‘Sailaja’, who is Tarun’s big support aided him in each one of his venture.

Lisa Haydon in an exclusive outfit designed by Tarun Tahiliani

Lisa Haydon in an exclusive outfit designed by Tarun Tahiliani

Rina Dhaka – She burst into the fashion world in the late 1980’s. Winner of the Yuvratan award, she is counted among the creative and innovative designers of the country. She is best known for her theme collections, sheer trousers, crochet & stretch jersey, woollens and spider web motifs. Her forte remains western wear and she prides on the fact that her pieces can be worn as separates.

JJ Valaya men - inspired by Toreros the bull fighters of Spain

JJ Valaya men – inspired by Toreros the bull fighters of Spain

Rina emphasises silhouettes. She is not afraid of experimenting. In one of her collection she had mixed fur and boots with her indian outfits. She had shows in Continue reading “The Pioneers of Indian Fashion !” »

Bitter Wicked Panache !

Bitter Wicked Panache !

Love Affair with Chanel

He is one of the most influential not to say outspoken leaders in the fashion world credited with re-inventing the famous Chanel brand. Karl Lagerfeld has taken one of Coco Chanel’s most iconic garments and immortalized it in a rather idiosyncratic way. Coco Chanel’s little black jacket is versatile, timeless and some would say iconic. And now its revamped in a series of photographs taken by Chanel’s creative director Karl Lagerfeld.
The Fashion designer has persuaded his celebrity friends Yoko Ono, Sarah Jessica Parker and Lilly Allen amonst others to pose in the jacket first created in 1916 for the london runway.

Lilly Allen

Lilly Allen & Kate Moss in Chanel

 

The son of a hamburg industrilaist when he is not taking photos, lagerfeld is one of the fashion worlds most influential designers. As well as his Chanel job he also runs two other fashion houses designing for Fendi and Chloe.
You do recognize his style from miles and miles away. What I love is that its the simplest things you have such an alure. A very very private man who has perfected being an extraordinary public.

The one and only Coco Chanel

The one and only Coco Chanel

Fendi Fashion show in Great Wall - Beijing

Fendi Fashion show in Great Wall – Beijing

He produces 8 collections every year for Chanel and 4 for Fendi. (2- pre-fall, 2 -fall)
What we know is that is a tremendous amount of work and this is makes him a force to reckon with.  He staged the first fashion show ever on the Great wall in Beijing for Fendi. It was an incredible spectacle but you can only imagine the hideous logistical details that would have to go into something like that. He’s been the realm of Chanel now for more than Continue reading “Bitter Wicked Panache !” »

Revamp your beauty with Gel-based Make-up!!!

Revamp your beauty with Gel-based Make-up!!!

Forget your trusty, old loot and restock your vanity case with this new beauty booty. Revamp your beauty bag with power products, invest in bright make-up colors, slick up sexy oils and hit the fragrance counter for new floral scents.

Matte Nail-Polish

This year sees a definite shift in nails with drugstore and high-end brands bringing out matte enamels.

Why it works: The reason for this is because a lot of bright make-up is au courant; a matte finish on nails prevents the look from going over the top. You can use the matte texture on the entire nail and a shiny polish in the same hue just on the tips, for a reverse French manicure.

Matte nail shades

Matte nail shades

Liquid Lipstick

Liquid lipstick has been around for a while but has been shelved into the gloss category because of it’s in between textures. Today’s products move way ahead with vivid color and soft, long-lasting wear.

Why it works: You can use them because they provide bright color and a variety texture, and unlike traditional matte lipsticks, they feel supremely hydrating.

blood red liquid lipstick

blood red liquid lipstick

Long-Lasting Gloss

For years women have worn and enjoyed gloss with a single gripe: it doesn’t last. Of late, all that is changing with Continue reading “Revamp your beauty with Gel-based Make-up!!!” »

Top Trends for 2014

Top Trends for 2014

Welcome back to my new year fashion. What better way to start than with the top trends for the year 2014. All these collections have been featured in the spring collection of runway fashion

2014 spring colors

2014 spring colors

1) Boxy Crop Tops

We’re kicking off with a familair concept. Crop Tops!!! They took over our closets in 2013 but they aren’t going anywhere just yet. However you can expect a boxier silhouette as shown on the runways by Derek Lam, BCBG and Zimmermann. The main component to this trend is the sleeve length that hits just at the elbow but in a very loose boxy manner. A seamless trend with a fitted pencil skirt gives every woman her shape. It also includes a coated texture which is currently trending. So far i havent seen much of this style in the stores but checkout Zara which has a ray of colors and patterns. (Fedoras can be worn on bad hair days and are women’s new BFF :))

boxy top with pencil skirt

boxy top with pencil skirt

2) Lets Get Physical

Another trend a design that is all ready to let go of just yet is the athletic or sporty thing. This was shown by Marc by Marc Jacobs and Ralph Lauren. And then Gucci and Robin burn pitched in with a heavy focus on Continue reading “Top Trends for 2014” »

Stories of Silk

Stories of Silk

A tiny village, just outside the Murshidabad district in West Bengal, is keeping the tradition of weaving alive!

Life takes a sudden hectic turn at Tantipara, a textile village on the outskirts of Murshidabad. Skeins of silk literally spill onto the streets as looms clatter rhythmically under the labors of skilled weavers. Men, young and old, dexterously separate strands stretching down the entire length of the lane. Watching the super long threads bounce and quiver together is quite a sight.

silk weaving

silk weaving

It takes around four days for a single weaver to make one simple sari and much longer to craft a Baluchari, the renowned Bengali sari adorned with large mythological motifs in gold and silver zari, worn by women of upper-class and zamindari families.

Baluchari sari - heavy work

Baluchari sari – heavy work

A heavy Baluchari fetches around $200.00 and urban demand is only rising. Saris have broad borders, adorned by brocaded gold patterns. And so, unlike the tranquil riverside villages, time races ahead here and tradition flourishes with untiring speed. In the artisans determination to stay relevant echoes the unsung song of Murshidabad.

indian motifs

indian motifs

DIVINE DHARMAVARAM

Silk is not just confined to Murshidabad but has its presence in several parts in India. Dharmavaram silks have been popular Anantapur district in the state of  Andhra Pradesh. It is known for its cotton and silk weaving industries. Dharmavaram saris comprise heavy ‘pallus‘ with exclusive designs. Their broad solid colored borders with contrast ‘pallus‘ are desired by every woman.

Dharmavaram silks

Dharmavaram silks

Concealer Magic !

Concealer Magic !

We all seek clear, even-toned skin, which more or less make concealers an essential tool in your beauty bags. It is recommended that you use a concealer on the under-eye areas, scars and marks, after applying your foundation. There are several pointers for flawless coverage and the key things to remember when choosing and using a concealer.

 

Choose a concealer based on your skin type

Opt for a concealer depending upon your skin type (oily, normal or dry) and coverage required. Each of us have unique features, different skin types and skin issues, so its best to try concealers from different brands. For instance, if you have oily skin, opt for a matte finish; if you have dry skin, look for a creamier blend. Don’t be embarrassed to ask as many questions as you have to the salesperson at the counter and try on however many you want. Pick a shade that’s closest to your skin to avoid imperfections instead of going for a very light shade. Women assume that a lighter shade makes them appear fairer, but if it does not match your skin tone, it looks cakey.

 

bold & beautiful

bold & beautiful

Combine make-up with skin care

Using a moisturizer before the concealer is essential to keep your skin hydrated and ensure better application and coverage. It also helps the concealer blend in well and avoids it from creasing into fine lines and wrinkles. So pick the right moisturizer for you – for oily skin use a water-based or a gel-based moisturizer; for normal skin, opt for a Continue reading “Concealer Magic !” »

Top 10 Fashion Trends – Fall 2013

Top 10 Fashion Trends – Fall 2013

Hey my fashionistas! how are you guys?  Welcome to another fashion forecast and I am so excited to share the latest trends with you. I am writing all about fall 2013 fashion which I cant believe is right around the corner.  A lot of these pieces can be  pulled out of your own wardrobe and yes that is right “old Glam is back” I am ready to rock the fall fashion wit the 10 must have items.

The No.1 is oversized and this almost applies to every single thing in your closet. Oversized jackets to oversied clutches. Fill them all up 🙂 Anything from big bold colors to bold textures is flodding the new york and milan fashion weeks. My primary focus is oversized jackets which dont have too much tailoring and which just sits on you and wraps you up in luxury. Different patterns and different lenghts is a key component.

oversized jacket

oversized jacket

 

No.2 on my list is leopard. I love leopard and experimenting this with colors is upto you but i prefer to stick to the classic look. So all you ladies get the leopard out. No.3 is peplum. Yes it is still hanging in there. I see it in quite a few designer looks. Definitely try to play up your waist as this is Continue reading “Top 10 Fashion Trends – Fall 2013” »