Fashion Tips, Beauty tips, Fashion Bulletin, Fashion Week Model Photo

Red Carpet hairstyles Beauty Tips

2009-11-28T04:36:00.000-08:00

Need some hair inspiration for your next party or want to know the latest trend in the world of make-up take it directly from the stars who grace the red carpet in fabulous gowns with gorgeous hair to match and a make-up to kill. Red Carpet is the place where fresh skin and gorgeous makeup catch our attention while hairstyles ranging from up dos to half up and half owns to cascading curls and loose waves- all give us a reason to keep watching. Got no time to sit and watch them on the idiot box No worries we did just that and deciphered the red carpet hair and make-up trends for you. If you are really obsessed with the classy look go for unfussy up do pair it up with timeless makeup that had a touch of shimmer on the eyes and orange-red stained lips. It will also look flawless with highlighted cheeks soft smokey eyes and glossy rosy-pink lips. Diane Lane and Natalie Portman were seen flaunting theses killer looks in one of the recent award functions. If we are talking about up do then Freida Pinto never disappoints us. Walking at one of the red carpets we loved her hair that complemented her minimal makeup. Soft liner and shadow blush to add a bit of colour and a matte pink colour on the lip. For more information Fashion Jewelry Collection and beauty related product, Hair Color Tips for Hair Color Tips and fashion deals online you can visit stylekandy.com

The very beautiful Jessica Biel was recently caught wearing a soft, wavy hairdo and kept her makeup only to her great skin neutral eyes and pink lips. With loosely curled tresses pulled half up Melissa George looked simply angelic and luminescent. Next to top the beauty trend is hair styled in long loose waves teamed up with soft smoky eyes which is a fine linear between lightly smudged eye shadow and bare looking lashes a sheer crimson lip will definitely going to complete the look. Amanda is one celebrity who has carried this off really well.

Jennifer Anistons look is also referred by the fashionist as for inspiration. We love her cheery beach-worthy look completed perfectly with a French braid to hold the front of her hair back. Her makeup always complements her very dewy skin peachy-pink cheeks and light pink lips. Closer home Bipasha Basu and Priyanka Chopra are some of the hot favourites when it comes to setting the trends. Their smoky eyes first made popular by actress Sophia Loren is most the appropriate for night wear as it uses dark colours and looks less natural. Makeup is simple sheer and age-appropriate and hair style is classic funky and sophisticated completing the entire look. Now that you enough options to choose from, here a word of caution while getting inspired is cool copying it will make you look like a fool.

Kolkata artist Sunita Kumar opened her latest exhibition at the Jehangir Art Gallery Mumbai inspired by her close associate and friend- Mother Teresa. I was worked with her for 32 years and continued till 1997 the fateful year when she passed away said a nostalgic Kumar. From her hometown she brings to life the sights and the atmosphere of her India. It an interpretation of the wildlife and nature the street scenes and architecture and the life of Mother Teresa. There is reflection and inspiration and the subject of so many of her paintings over the years the lady who has showed in Florence London Delhi etc explained.

To celebrate her showing in Mumbai Sunita hosted a cosy get together over high tea for friends co-hosted by Sharmilla Khanna. Some of the celebrities who attended included Farah Khan Bhavana Pandey Reena Wadhwa Komal Vazir Zarine Khan Rima Jain Hasina Jethmalani Prerna Goel Devaunshi Mehta Bose Krishnamachari Queenie Dhody Zeba Kohli Sangeeta Jindal Sangeeta Assomull Pria Kataria Puri Namrata Barua Kitu Gidwani Mallika Sagar Sangeeta Chopra Vimla Patil Veena Malhotra Guni Mohan Murjani Arti and Vijay Murjani etc. As coolers and canapes did the rounds so did Zeba Kohli specially designed Sunita Kumar chocolates with the artists signature translated unto them. The paintings of the Mother were a huge hit with the crowd with many being sold immediately.

Supermodel Beauty Tips

2009-11-19T04:14:00.000-08:00

German supermodel Claudia Schiffer has decided to quit the runway and launch her own clothing line. Following the footsteps of fellow supermodels Kate Moss and Cindy Crawford the 39 years old beauty is now all set to launch her own fashion line and enjoy the show from the front row rather than doing a catwalk. I have been approached so many times over the last 20 years but it has never been the right time. Now, I would consider it but it would have to be the right thing. They would need to be clothes that I would want to wear, Schiffer confirmed to the sources. I have finished with the catwalk and not miss it, she was reported in media. Of late Claudia Schiffer and designer Karl Lagerfeld two of the most recognized personalities in the fashion world, were in Argentina for a photo shoot for Chanel. Both were invited by the Argentine model Ivan de Pineda. The shoot was delayed due to climatic conditions. Ultimately, this was done a few weeks after the supermodel announced her retirement from the catwalk. According to sources, Schiffer informed that she will not get on the runway though she will continue to work in fashion. The interesting part is, not long after she was first discovered; many people thought she would never be more than a catalogue queen, as outlined by Aline Soulier's memories of Claudia's first shoot. However surprisingly, during her hay-days, Claudia was arguably one of the most recognizable faces in the early-to-mid 1990s. Also, the supermodel holds the record for the top model with the highest number of magazine covers. Yes, the German babe has been featured on more than 900 magazine covers. But despite this, her raw beauty shone through and she will forever be remembered as the ’90s it girl. Now all eyes are glued to her new fashion line that promises to be as chic and the chick herself. For more information Celebrity Hair Styles and beauty related product, Hair Color Tips for Fashion Jewelry Collection and fashion deals online you can visit stylekandy.com

Though the capital city has, restaurants, art galleries and fashion destinations one too many this new innovative venture by designer Nakul Sen will offer you the perfect blend of Art, Food and Fashion- all under one roof! In a joint collaboration with the Portuguese Embassy, the designer has conceptualized a unique amalgamation of style, indulgence and opulence named- O Palacio. Set amidst a Portuguese backdrop, the destination with serene and tranquil ambience comprises four fashion design studios, a fine dining restaurant-Casa Portuguesa and an art gallery-Galeria De Arte.

This concept can be seen more as a cultural exchange. We wanted to take our concepts and ideas beyond fashion and the Portuguese Embassy and designers were quite supportive from the day we started working towards this dream, emphasized Nakul, holding a glass of red wine. The opening exhibition, ‘Living Art Expanse’ marks the launch of the art gallery, displaying contemporary creativity by Indian and International artists. The creative space offers some selected paintings, drawings, photographs, sculptures, digital videos, installations and public art. High end womenswear line by Nakul himself and also Shyam Narayan Prasad, Gayatri Khanna and Zoya the multi-designer house is up for the grab. Talking to us, designer Shyam Narayan Prasad shared, Nakul’s idea sounded nice so thought of associating with him. We’re aiming at changing the collection racks four or five times every month and have kept the pricing reasonable starting from Rs 2,700 to 7,000. Interestingly, Nakul, along with his prêt and exclusive lines has also found his passion in jewellery designing and is planning to come up with his line of shoes and accessories too! The only designer who couldn’t make for the celebration was Gayatri Khanna but her opening collection for O Palacio presented the designs which she showcased at her solo show for Mercedes Benz. Zoya one of the most celebrated names in the fashion industry stocks designs by Wendell Rodricks, Priyadarshini Rao, Gaurav Gupta, Savio Jon, Arjun Saluja, Nachiket Bharve, Gauri & Nainika and the Kolkata based label, Vizyon. Come to gourmet, Casa Portuguesa one of the most acclaimed restaurants promises to present a sumptuous palette of authentic Portuguese cuisine. The comfy and warm ambience of the restaurant offers a fine dining space for fifty people allowing one to be themselves. If you are really among the lucky ones Fransico Sousa the chef and the owner himself may play his guitar and entertain you! The designer added that the restaurant will be shortly opening by November 20.

Men's wear & Womens wear Show

2009-11-05T01:47:00.000-08:00

Gayatri Khanna opened the 3 designer show, with a line of clothes in floral prints and stuck to the prints for most of the collection. Gayatri is known for her elegant dressy signature look, made an effort to break her evening, cocktail dresses image but the effort was quite visible. For the Spring-Summer 2010, the designer has used flowy fabrics mainly satin, georgettes, silk satin, linen, crepe silk and taffeta silk crafted into body flattering silhouettes. The collection had a range of jumpsuits, draped bustier tops, and mini-skirts. Few pieces of one shouldered dress with draped silhouette featured multi-string detailing and hand painted embellishments. The black and white one shouldered tunic with bubble hem and embroidered flowers was well applauded. This was followed by a line up of tunic dresses with cord work embroidery by the young fashion designer Tanvi Kedia. With a girlie feel to the collection, the designs mostly saw pleated long dresses, kaft an gowns and long skirts. The designer has nicely experimented with the Indian handcraft and traditional craftsmanship. Some of the clothes had well knitted and intricate colourful sequenced embroidery work as the neckline.

Abhishek Dutta presented his new collection – Tomorrow land. Asymmetrical hemlines and uneven cuts depict the uncertainty in future and hence the title. Abhishek played a lot of khaki fabric to create his jackets and dresses. He had his models faced masked in translucent black and were accessorized in black leggings and full sleeves gloves. This show witnessed a balanced presentation of menswear and womens wear. Model Pia Trivedi looking stunning in an orange hued dress, was the show stopper.

Charu Prasher had an interesting start to her show. A group of giggling girls in floral dresses came walking the ramp and then Tinu Verghese one among them took over the ramp and started the show. It was a blossoming, flowering and budding season for Charu Parashar and with this the designer is aiming at exploring the feminine and romantic side of a woman. Sunflowers, palm green and rosy pinks ruled the palette. And to suit this floral theme, the models walked the ramp with floral baskets and bunch of roses and lilies. Blooming sunflowers prints presented in an array of dresses in bright yellow colour were quite apt for the spring summer season. Seema and Swapnilhad a mix of both western and Indian silhouettes in their Spring-Summer line up. A season of Romance – the collection is inspired by the charm and beauty of spring and summer. Model Shonali Rosarioopened the show for the designer duo flaunting a white lehenga with the blouse heavily embellished with metallic studs. Most of the garments had a sequence work with silver thread which offered a rich look to the ssarees and dresses. Lisa Hayden looked royal in a black draped dress. The Review: Gul Panag, actor: I loved Seema-Swapan, they had such amazing collection of saris. Both the shows were at either ends of the spectrum; even Charu was great with her Boho-floral pieces. Very feminine! Meher Castellino, fashion critic: Nothing very new but Charu presented some bright colours on the runway. Avigyan Prakash, News presenter: lots of colours loved the collection.

Fashion Fame Models

2009-10-16T04:41:00.000-07:00

What happens when a leading mall dealing with cult brands joins hands with style icons and fashion designers? We get Zeitgeist 2009 - a fashion extravaganza that assimilated creativity, talent, beauty, designs and glamour at Select City Walk in the capital city. The event, an out and out affair of razzle-dazzle and glitterati, was organized in association with Archisha educational Trust and Chavi Shanti Dham which aims at supporting child welfare by helping the underprivileged children. An array of designers showcased their latest collections as renowned models like Nayonika Chatterjee, Amanpreet Wahi, Krishna Somani, Ekta Chaudhary, Kajal Srivastava and Anjali Raut walked the ramp strutting in the sensational designs Participating designers who came forward for this noble cause were Nishka Lulla, Kapil and Monika, Sulakshana Monga Kavita and Meenu, Manu and Mamta, and Renu Dadlani. The show was well choreographed by Vinay Gupta. Guests present were eminent designers like Prateek and Sheeba, Charu Parsher, Sanjana Jon and many more. Designer duo Kavita and Meenu presented an amalgamation of traditional fabrics and designs with contemporary silhouettes that adorns the modern Indian woman. Their creation - 'Vintage Luxe' - has been inspired from the Mughal era and was filled with opulence, richness and royalty. The colour palette includes fuchsia, green, purple and gold with rich embroideries, making it apt for the festivities this month. As the name suggests, Bella-Ragazza - the Peacock 2009 by Manu and Mamta presented a collection with bright colour story and grandeur which will surely appeal to the brides. Making a grand entry with her Lavanya Collection, Renu Dadlani presented a blend of ethnic elegance and contemporary pret that comprises lehengas, sarees and suits. With an aspiration to revive the age old handicrafts and embroideries, the designers' collection uses luxurious fabrics like net, georgettes, brocade and other embellishments.

With a signature feel of youthfulness and femininity, Nishka Lulla's pret line Nishkk managed to garner applauses galore. It was a good response altogether and since it was associated with a noble cause, I thought of being a part of this endeavour. It was my first time in Delhi I really enjoyed, Nishka shared. Designer twosome Kapil and Monika had 'Fashion' fame model turned pip up poster doll Mugdha Godse as their showstopper. The collection highlighted a plethora of festive colours spanning from pink, beige, mauve, red, black and white. With Swarovski crystals ruling the embellishments, the ensembles had gorgeous sarees brilliantly draped. Inglot, the world leader in colour cosmetics presented the 'Avante Garde' look. Known for their chic and world class stylish accessories, Aldo showcased their latest fall-winter trend which was urbane, modish and fashionable. Beauty queen, Diana Hayden set the ramp on fire as she walked the ramp for Sulakshna Monga. After making a sensational debut at Lakme Fashion Week in 2006, Surily Goel has never looked back. With a vision that goes beyond the ramp, she has given stylish looks to numerous Hindi films like Jaane man, Salam Namaste, The Last Lear, and the much awaited Blue, not forgetting to mention Priety Zinta starrer 'Har Pal'. Goel has recently unveiled her new bridal collection - 'Alchemy'. The highlight of the collection is the gold and silver floral motifs that give the ghagras and kurtas a more vibrant and lively look.

These Indian silhouettes will be appreciated by women who want to take along fond memories of style in their bridal trousseau, said Surily Goel.The colour palette features pulsating shades of mustard yellows to reds to indigo blues moving to prints in turquoise, maroons and emerald greens. Known for her abstract art techniques, the designer has used printed crepe silk base, nets, georgette and velvets treated with cutwork and colour blocking technique to form Mughal Broasso printed fabric. Talking about her upcoming projects she revealed that one can see her work in movies like Chance Pe Dance' and 'It's My Life where she is dressing actress Genelia. Revealing more about her designing for actor Zayed Khan in Blue, she informed, The movie has been extensively shot in the Bahamas, keeping this in mind I've tried to deviate from the emblematic beach wear, and have tried to create an uber stylish beach look. For more information for Fashion Designers and beauty related product, fashion tips for Lakme Fashion Week and fashion deals online you can visit stylekandy.com

Bollywood Mumbai Based Designer

2009-10-10T04:02:00.000-07:00

Show I of Day 2 began with Elan by Priti Bansal & Kaushik Ghosh and Samars Designs by Pankaj Kumar & Ajit Parihar. Both collections were fresh and innovative and in shades of greens and browns. While Elan had a very slick look to all its ensembles be it the colours of the garments, the cuts and silhouettes used. Koushik Ghosh of the Elan duo is a pass out of Apparel Trading and Design Creative Center- Kolkata where he won the best designer award in his final year. He has been designing costumes for renowned film directors Rakha Dutta, Putool Mohamad and Rajnish Kashyap since then till Elan happened. For them this is the first time they have been to Bangalore and the complex southern market. In search of expanding their customer database they are still awaiting positive conversions from causal buyer queries post the show. They used constructive patterns, pleats, embroidery as medium on fabrics like georgette, chiffon and talosilk. Next in line were Delhi based duo Pankaj and Ajit presented a slick line inspired by tribal art. Beads, embroidery and patchwork was what stood out in their creations. Both the collections received a positive and appreciative response from the little audience that was present. As Koushik Ghosh aptly said, Its very good to be in Bangalore Fashion Week and actually showing…wish their was more of an audience to appreciate the show. The day certainly seems to be green. Young designers Bhakthi Reddy and Kaira Gurnani ruled the day. Beautifully put together they could easily give the senior designers a run for their money. Bhakthi put forth a contemporary collection which included shifts, jumpsuits, skirts, gowns and dresses in green, orange and golden. A striking merger of rich brocade silk with soft georgettes in contrasting colours though the predominant colour was a vibrant shade of green. The kurt is were teamed with hand painted churidaars or skirts with intricate patchwork. A fresh look on the face was accessorized with just a brocade tassel woven around the pony tail the clothes took center stage as the models showed off the gorgeous collection. The next in line was Kaira Gurnani who presented the sixth sense of a woman and tuned in to the inner goddess in every woman to bring out an excellent collection. Green, orange and golden ruled the ramp with a splatter of reds and yellows on the side. The dresses were pretty and completely girly…as it was meant to be for the woman confident about herself. Cute bows, ruffle details, soft tassels and pleats were elements that added the girly touch to each one of the garments. Her collection included shifts, dresses, golden jumpsuits, ponchos and a lot of layered dresses. Titled Bold and the Bollywood Mumbai based designer presented her Bridal collection at Blender’s Pride BFW today. The highlight of the show was Koena Mitra who walked the ramp as a beautifully dressed Indian bride after two years as a showstopper in Bangalore. We caught up with both the designer and the actor after the show Lakme Fashion Week. So why did you decide to do this? Koena: I have a very western image so this was an opportunity for me to explore my Indian side. It felt beautiful to be dressed as a bride even if it was for five minutes. Plus the dress itself was so beautiful that it did not need an overdose of jewels to add to it. In a lot of ways this is what the modern Indian bride would look for in a bridal dress. I loved the antique work done on the dress. End of the day you want to make only one statement with an ensemble. Too many statements end up making a no statement at all. After all you spend so much on your dress wouldn’t you want to highlight it without looking like a Christmas tree. And Koena to me represented the perfect epitome of my muse hence I decided to ask her to do this.

Men's Fashion Week

2009-10-03T03:09:00.000-07:00

While Lakme Fashion Week still in progress here in the country, London Men's Fashion Week continued to woo fashionstas in style. This time the fashion fiesta became the talk of the world for a number of reasons and the most important one was the 25th anniversary of the event and a new venue in 180 The Strand moments away from Somerset House. This being a significant year, there were a host of big-names showcasing their designs. Burberry, Pringle, Jeremy Scott and Sass & Bide. Matthew Williamson, Jonathan Saunders and Antonio Berardi also returned to the city to stage fashion shows here. London Fashion Week kicked off with a fresh air of optimism, enthused by London womenswear designer, Caroline Charles. With five changing themes, Charles kicked off with Cruise- a cutesy collection of poppy polka dots, romantic ruffles and flirty shorts. The designer, who was awarded an OBE after celebrating her 40th anniversary in fashion, then followed with Resort- an exotic compilation of fifties style tunics and cropped trousers, accessorising with heavily beaded necklaces, chunky bracelets and sun hats.

Bora Aksu collection was inspired by the Oscar Wilde story 'The Happy Prince'. True to style, there was an array of textures and fabrics, with tulle and lace being the order of the day. Shades of black, cream and ballerina pink dominated. With futuristic takes on modern classics (think pleated brocade coats with sculpted shoulders and high-rise collars in berry hues with metallic touches), the makeup was feminine, modern and fresh to complement it in Paul Costelloe show. Farm boy turned mystic water colourist Emil Nolde was name checked by Nicole Farhias the inspiration for this SS10 collection. Harem trousers looked subtle rather than attention seeking. There were classic shapes with clever flourishes, including a jade-green skirt with a hip-complimenting V-fold and a jacket and skirt in a textured, woven raffia check. Osman You sefzada's beautifully soft shapes, simple, clean and interesting line dresses were awesome. Mark Fast's collection was full of crocheting and knits but nothing granny like about this collection! It was fine whether it is an overdress or soft jewellery. Mary Katrantzou had colourful and kaleidoscopic prints, which perfectly suited the summer season. Biker meets Boho designs with tassels by Aminaka Wilmontare still talk of the town.

Peter Pilotto without any surprise stuck to gorgeous prints and draped dresses which made it to the wish list of every female. Paul Smith's old fashioned Britishness and quirky eclectic style was commendable and very elegant. Josh Goot presented some really eye catching pieces in a mixture of bright colours and optical monochromatic designs. Christopher Kane used a really unusual use of gingham checks to create beautiful and feminine dresses.

Todd Lynn's silhouettes with the shoulders almost sprouting into wings were larger than life, but still wearable. Marios Schwab showcased a mixture of layering, textures, draping, all put together so cleverly for an elegant look. Meadham Kirchoff's clever use of layering and texture was the highpoint of the collection with a great contrast between flowy and structured. British Household name, Clements Ribeiro showcased a still-life presentation of their newly-revived eponymous label. Aquascutum offered a sophisticated take on all things summery. A collection centred around long lengths and muted colours, the show was about grown up, classic pieces that don't yell for attention yet catch the eye with sheer elegance and strength. Giles Deacon focused on accessories this season. The heavy, complex necklaces comprised of silver balls, Swarovski crystals, chains and various other jewels which were particularly impressive. Insect rings are sure to go down in a storm.

Burberry closed the week with the showing of its Burberry Prorsum womens wear line. Bright colours and long dresses featured prominently on the catwalks at many of this year's spring/summer shows thereby setting a trend. From plus-size models on the Mark Fast cat walk to Slum dog couple Freida Pinto and Dev Patel holding hands in the front row at Burberry, London Fashion Week spring/summer '10 certainly caused a stylish stir.

Media V/S Fashion Trial

2009-09-30T05:43:00.000-07:00

Many feel that after Cricket and Bollywood, Fashion is the third largest content driver in the country today. You may choose your preferences here and play a quick rating game, yet it would all hardly matter if the Press would show no interest in covering any of this. People often complain that media today is about 'sensationalism' and not 'journalism'. Perhaps it's an accusation that finds us more guilty than innocent. But then we are simply reporting the fast multiplying fashion weeks and the earth shattering splits! Let's just hold an out of court Media v/s Fashion trial and try to reach verdict. Lakme fashion week the most common peeve of designers, especially the younger ones, is that the media gives a runway show its due only when there is a celeb show stopper. "There was a time when I had left concentrating on my collection to run from pillar to post in order to find a celeb because the PR agency warned me that I would not be covered only if I have some biggie walking the ramp" cries designer Rahul Mishra. Even a veteran like Neeta Lulla complained that her 'eco friendly' bamboo shoot collection went unnoticed for want of a showstopper as against the collection where Sushmita Sentook to the ramp.

The answer is pretty simple- the average Indian is not yet as fashion conscious as a serious viewer in the West. To grab his attention, we have to infuse some 'masala', after all the media has bills to pay too. The solution lies in intelligently positioning one's collection so that it intrigues the media as well the viewer enough to drive the message home. It doesn't obviously matter to a Stylekandy. Comsince we cover fashion as a segment and not as lip sympathy! Another incorrigible complaint is that people reporting fashion are not well equipped with the correct savior faire. Again, this may be too much of a generalization. There are serious media reporters who do it for a passion as much as for a living. I believe the organizers of fashion weeks can also play a major role in filtering the 'wanted' from the 'surplus'. Fashion may still be in a nascent stage here, but people itching around the Parliament all day to get a glimpse of the PM should not be allowed at a fashion week only for building relations by public offerings of sponsored food and booze!

The means of self grooming and procuring professional grounding in fashion are far better reaching than ever before. And if one still chooses to remain ignorant, it’s only prudent on our part to part with him. Nari a stalwart in the design fraternity, was disappointed because, "no one noticed or reported that the show had a structured silhouette juxtaposed with a flowy one." This is not acceptable. Any amount of Sufi mumbo-jumbo will do no good if one can't report what he can see… or furthermore, can't even notice what is shown! Models in the industry feel that they are constantly put under the microscope and the media is ruthless and relentless in their pursuit to pin them down at the sight of the slightest mishap. Here, I am sorry to say, but I hardly identify with them. It's like you spend half your life trying to get famous and then waste the other half complaining about the perks that come with it. As a model, one is expected to remain sartorially perfect at all times, and even an iota of sub-standard attribute will draw unwanted attention. Yes, media should give them a break every now and then. I have to mention what Shahid Kapooronce said to me, "how would you like it if people followed you in the bath room?" I said, "I wouldn't like it since they don’t want to see me naked. They want to see you!"

Delhi Lakme Fashion Week or Show

2009-09-25T01:59:00.000-07:00

Showcasing a truly original line designer Imcha Imchen opened the fourth day of Lakme Fashion Week SS'10. The entire fashion fraternity seemed to be eagerly waiting to see the emerging talents of our nation and the front row overflowed with designers, buyers and fashion admirers. The designer mesmerized everyone with his western collection presented in the tribal style. A fusion of 'Ao' (language of a particular Naga tribe), English and Indian music well complimented the whole concept. Followed by Paromita banerjee, the audiences got to witness an Indo-western line baptised as 'Safed Rang'. Though one could easily spot influences of Rahul Mishra and Sabyasachi in Paromita's line it was quite appreciated by buyers- which serves the purpose ultimately, I guess. Neha Agarwal presented western designs in her own way. Sticking to earthy tones and smaller prints, she did a fusion of all including various silhouettes and fabrics. Reviews Rahul Mishra (designer) "Imcha Imchen was original and really impressed me. For Paromita I just want to say that I kept getting messages from people during the show only that her collection had lot of my influence." Fern Mallis (Sr. VP IMG): All three of them were creative in their own way and can create their own niche in this market.

Say spring and the first thought coming to the mind would be flowers. The thought is very common but the interpretation is purely subjective for various personalities. Designer Chaitanya Rao interpreted the same in the form of fashionable clothing. Colourful floral embroidered motifs on the surface were something prominent throughout his assortments. Spider webs were also seen as cutwork on the silhouette that mostly consisted of dresses.

Lifting the mood from the world of greeneries, Preeti Chandra carried the audience to another world of fantasy. Bling and sensual elegance ruled in the form of gowns and dresses with statement pieces made in accessories. The flirty music well complimented the look. However, when it comes to creativity in fashion, the designer couldn't impress the audience much. Sequined dresses, gowns, embroideries, western cuts are all fine but not something unusual in fashion. May be the collections struck chords with some of the onlookers. By and large the show was an entertaining journey to a fabled garden. Designer Anand Kabra thought- "Preeti’s was an 'OK' collection. Chaitanya Rao was good. Few of his clothes in the beginning were beautiful, also embroideries and detailing was really impressive."

Beautiful Fashion Skills and Designs

2009-09-12T05:38:00.000-07:00

Perhaps the only female designer in the first ever Van Heusen India Men's Week who is going to showcase her collection individually, Rajvi Mohan has managed to create a distinctive design aesthetic of sophisticated, fun and quirky designs for the discerning male client who lives and works in a global space. Her style is a series of stories juxtaposed to create a new fashion idiom. For her VHIMW Spring/Summer '10 collection, Rajvi focuses extensively on lightweight and relaxed silhouettes to keep with her summer theme 'Presenting the Royals of Surf'. Forget a boring three-piece black suit! Enter cool and relaxed jackets and shirts that you can wear through the summer whether it is a wedding, a beach party or in a nightclub. Keeping with her signature style, the collection is all about mixed fabrics, shocking block printing, imaginative buttons, interesting collars and necklines. The colours are reflective of a faded summer dream of the sun kissed 'royals of surf' from their fantasy filled land of relaxed and charming days and nights! As the theme is inspired by 'Royal Summer', the favourite colours of the collection are navy blue and purple.

When asked about the look and feel of the model, the beautiful designer shared, "FDCI's panel has chosen a well rounded selection of models. From the images and details received, a lot of attention has been given to try and get the right looks and faces this season" for this collection the target audience is men between the age of 20 and 40 years with attitude and confidence. This is all about the collection but what is the one factor according to the designer that can accelerate the growth of Indian fashion industry "The chance that younger designers are given a chance to evolve and show their skills and designs. The industry will only grow once the realization sets in, that the market is big enough for all parties, right from design to production and retail, all sectors must invest in every step, to reach full potential" she signs off. When it comes to Kotwara for men, it's all about the understated elegance of an evolved Indian style and a universal appeal that enamoured the world. Meera & Muzaffar Ali of Kotwara are back and will be showcasing their menswear line at Van Heusen India Men's Week. While they are known for their traditional touch, when ask about the unique feature of their collection they replied, "This time, one can see the influence of the city of Awadh in our clothes."

The exquisite craftsman is going to showcase a line of traditional Sherwanis, Achkan, Daglas, Choghas, Kurtas, and Angharkha along with modern derivatives of the Bandgala and variations of the waistcoat. "We have also created a special version of shirts which will give that chic look to the models," Meera revealed. Textures always play a vital role when it comes to traditional and ethnic wear. In this collection, the designers have applied the Awadhi techniques of Aari which highlight and create subtle textures reminiscent of Art Deco, Central Asian and Persian motifs which have carved out their place in the Indian grammar of design since a long time. While on one side the Kotwara line has always been a pleasure to see on the ramp there is no doubt that the designers and craftsman put in a lot of hard work to create those mesimerizing garments. Dipped in a colour palette of Ivory, Black, Grey and Metallic shades, the collection has gone through a countless number of treatments like machine textures, hand embroidered with aari, zardosi and chikan work, quilting and applique. With special attention to fabric, the collection has been created of woven fabrics in silk, wool and mulmul. The collection is aimed at a discerning man who prefers a Classic Timeless Look. Expect to see models styled with sleek hair and an over all Retro look. For more information you can click Fashion Week and get details.

American College Fashion Designers Study

2009-09-11T01:10:00.000-07:00

"Fashion is about change and for me the philosophy is always the same so I have always had a clear design philosophy and point of view about being modern, sophisticated, clean and minimal. They all apply to my design aesthetic. Visions of nominal designs and wearable urban styles are one of the main aspects of my collection." This is what Zubair has to say when we asked him about his design philophy for the upcoming India men's week. Zubair Kirmai a very talented designer from Kashmir is all set to burn the ramp with his SS'10 collection at India men's week. The label primarily focuses on inimitable signature style that fuses together both contemporary minimalism and classic heritage from his roots. The importance of crafted detailing is rediscovered in his avant-garde collection, which keeps improving upon rather than making rash changes every season.

"We always had been on one segment of the fashion but now with this new approach will give men also a chance to select amongst the best. Apart from restricting myself by giving any name to it, I have tried giving men's wear some stylish touches with my collection without being overtly choosy" said Zubair. The collection consist of Nehru collar achkans, contemporary jackets, t-shirts, shorts, satin/silk trousers, graphic trousers( satin silk) that had been deeply influenced by fine detailing reminiscent of royalty and utmost luxury. Crisp cotton, lots of textured fabrics, a subtle muted colour card with a sharply constructed line consist everything in his designs. The palest of black, grey, blue and purple along with white were the tones that Zubair worked with for jackets with one or two vents which were very closely cut to the body and teamed with skinny pants. The jacket openings varied from one, two and three buttons closure.

An interesting pleated silk jacket, a cobalt blue Tee teamed with shorts and a grey/white/black shaded jacket with slim trousers will make good additions in the male wardrobe for the coming season. Apart from jackets one can also see sherwani bandgal as with intrinsic embroidery which gives that elegant look to the entire wardrobe. As far as looks of the models are concerned, it will be more of a translucent sheet with very glam and understated tone. Overall very modern, classic must say. The target buyers are all those people who want to add glamour in their personality without much over do's. If you want get more you can click Fashion Week and find something details.

Celebs Reviews Fashion Designers

2009-09-07T04:58:00.000-07:00

One of the noteworthy designer duos that have made a name for itself in the Indian fashion industry is that of Rohit Gandhi and Rohit Khanna. The twosome always in the habit to present contemporary and chic style that also offers comfort and ease. Detailing to fabric and prominence on sharp, well-defined cuts has enabled this designer duo to acquire a name for them in the Indian design industry and all theses qualities made him the finale designer of the first ever India men's week which the whole world is going to witness from 11th to 13th Sept. For SS'10, the designer is going to reflect our changing relationship with nature and explores our connection with the industrial environment in the form of masculine dresses with the theme called 'Hyper nature' "Nature today is not green. Today we live in a world that is complex and uncontrollable and the city has become a nature of its own. The already fading boundaries between nature and culture have long disappeared and given birth to what is 'Hypernature'" well said and this is what we expect from finale designer to raise some social issue with their talent. The collection enjoys an infusion of new age cuts and constructions. Bottoms in knit with dropped crotches, small collars with thin ties, overalls in canvas and denim suits represent the new silhouettes which effortlessly blend from structured to relax. Modern and experimental with a twist, the collection through its various details like deconstruction, color blocking, textures and strong graphic prints reinforces the phenomena that are Hyper nature.

With the colour palette being the Black, white and grey with sharp accents of forest green, apple red and mist blues, their models will don a Tall, lean, trendy and confident look with loads of attitude. On questioning about the target buyers, they reiterates "In times of recession, everybody who is ready to buy" And what is the factor that can accelerate the growth of Indian fashion industry "We already tried and joined hands and decided that there would be one fashion week in Delhi- the 2 in Delhi have already become one. Wouldn't it be great if India has one unified fashion week? And the idea of other cities having their own fashion weeks for the publicity of certain sponsors is diluting the entire concept of the fashion week. The way they are springing up, you won't be surprised to hear a Bandra fashion week very soon. It's about time we get serious and not make a mockery of ourselves in front of the whole world.

Coming out of the mountains of Ladakh, this time designer siblings Shantanu-Nikhil are weaving a different story which is going to present a different attitude of man. Inspired by a soul-searching story of a boy detested by his father and manipulated by his mother and eventually growing up to be the most admired military commanders of all time, Shantanu-Nikhil is all geared for the India Men's Week Spring-Summer' 2010 with their collection baptized as ‘The Macedonian King'. The collection illustrates the classical era of the world history which marks the emergence of the revered conqueror – Alexander The Great – and weaves the spiritual journey of world conquest. Power, rule, gentleness and placidity describes the collection the best and portrays the emotion that expresses the ruler's supremacy, his gentle sensitivity and love for rich cultural influences. The colour palette is in sync with the theme of the collection. While the red accentuates his victories over the world that celebrates his power, the other garments presented in whites and off-whites will showcase the need of purity in his life after the blood-spattered conquests. On the other hand, to offer a touch of luxury and glory to their collection, designers have highlighted that era of extravaganza with a tint of gold that strongly defines his personality as a king and an emperor.

Talking about the silhouettes, just like the collection presented by them in the S-S 2009, this time again the designers are all set to create the magic again with the draped structures. "The silhouettes are mainly hand draped with a deep sense and need for utility," emphasized Nikhil. The designers have managed to present this era in a strong mix of chenille yarns and threads which are turned into the luxurious range of fabrics. With an aim to present the mix of contemporary designs and vintage Indian sensibilities, it seems the collection has been targeted at young and trendy men who are ready to experiment with their look. For more information you can click Fashion Portal and get details.

Tips Design for Skin

2009-09-03T04:53:00.000-07:00

People say "men would achieve the path of salvation the day they would be able to understand 'what women want'". Yes, it's a tough call though; still men never fail to try, at least! After a prolonged survey celebrated men's designer Arjun Khanna was finally able to figure out what women want actually. "Besides the good looks women love to see men with flawless skin"- was his answer. Enter- Kaya Skin Clinic. Arjun with Kaya decided to launch the ‘Designer Skin' package and range of treatments exclusively for men. Interestingly, Arjun Khanna would be the face of the product line. The formal announcement was made by Rakesh Pandey (CEO Kaya) in the presence of Arjun Khanna at Indigo, Colaba on 21st of Aug.

Looking at the men's grooming and care market, various brands are awakening about the fact the men also have skin! "This would be the first time Kaya is providing skin treatments and services to men. We all know men's skin is really different from women, it's rougher and harder, hence men need a different treatment and a special range of products for their skin care. Looking at these demands we decided to come up with this idea of 'designer skin' said Rakesh at the occasion. Arjun Khanna seemed speechless. In few words he summed up- "it's actually a task to understand a women’s heart, however, one thing I am sure about, they love to give a second look to handsome good looking men with flawless skin. So here we are." No wonder Suchitra Pillai had the right answer- "women want diamonds, diamonds and only diamonds! Jokes apart, we women actually want a person of good heart and good looks too. As far as beauty and skin care is concerned, it can be taken care of. I can trust Kaya for it since my husband has already experienced the services and it’s really good.

The packages include Even tone package, Anti-tanning package, Skin whitening package, Age control solutions and many more, exclusively for men. In the era of designer clothing, designer accessories, designer furnishings and home décor and designer cinema we have one more add on now –'Designer Skin', to allure the consumers of 21st century. The fashion and film frat came out in hoards. Abhay Deol, Madhoo, Tara Sharma, Siddharth Kanan, Anil Chopra, Gautam Singhania, Vikram Raizada, Parvez Damania, Lubna Adams, Kishen Moolchandani, Nachiket Barve, Nisha Jamval, and many more were present with their respective friends. If you want to get more information you can click Fashion Portal and find details.

Designer Apparel

2009-08-28T04:45:00.000-07:00

Finally the dust seems to be settling down on India's first Men's Fashion Week. FDCI is now out with the list of the 28 designers who are all set to mesmerize the menswear market and the fashion industry with the first ever season of Van Heusen Indian Mens Week to be held from Sep 11 to Sep 13. It is a mix of both established and budding names of the industry. Those exhibiting on the runway are Abraham and Thakore, ANKY m, Ashish N Soni, Aslam Khan, Ezma, Fighter cock by Abhishek Gupta and Nandita Basu, Gaurav Gupta, Gunjan and Rahul, Himmat Singh, JJ Valaya, Kotwara by Meera and Muzaffar Ali, Manoviraj Khosla, Narendra Kumar Ahmed, Nitin Bal Chauhan, Priya darshini Rao, Rajesh Pratap Singh, Rajvi Mohan, Ravi Bajaj, Rina Dhaka, Rocky S, Rohit Bal, Rohit Gandhi and Rahul Khanna, Samant Chauhan, Shantanu and Nikhil, Siddartha Tytler, Tarun Tahiliani and Vijay Arora.

FDCI supremo- Suniel Sethi said, "Designers are the core of the fashion industry and play an important role in shaping fashion trends in India. We have received an overwhelming response from the designers who want to participate. I wish all the participating designers the very best." This initiative of FDCI will cater to the widest range of men's fashion – menswear and accessories, under one roof, offering buyers and consumers the widest possible selection of fashion for men. The biggest fashion trade event for men will also present 15 shows over a three-day of actions and adventure. Participating designer, Rina Dhaka shared, "this is something I am going to try for the first time. Currently, I am quite sceptical about my whole collection. I do not want to boast about it as I will be able to judge myself only once I am out with it. just hoping for the best."

While Rina is nervous about her first ever menswear line, Nitin Bal Chauhan is very positive about this grand event. "This should have been done earlier, but this seems to be a consolidated and organized event with focus on the domestic market. We are hoping to find a mix of buyers from casual and formal wear brand. I am going to start with a casual wear line which can be best described as a funky collection," he concluded.

Lakme Fashion Week, in collaboration with Inter National Institute of Fashion Design (iNIFD), present the Lakmé Fashion Week Fashion Media Workshop- a pioneering step towards understanding the growing need for information and the importance of reporting on fashion. On August 27th, as the forum progresses in Mumbai, Marylou Luther, Editor in Chief -International Fashion Syndicate will share her expert global perspective on fashion reporting. Just a few days earlier now, she gives Stylekandy.com readers a dose of her varied and extensive savoir faire. For more information you can see at the link Fashion Designers and get details.

Professional Men's Fashion Week 09

2009-08-24T01:35:00.000-07:00

After all conflicts and confusions between FDCI and FDPC, the former has finally announced its first annual Van Heusen India Men's Week and unveiled the logo of the forthcoming event at a press conference in the capital recently. With this, the FDCI has managed to position India on the global platform and has been ranked as the fourth fashion capital of the World to host an independent Men's Week. The event which will be a three day fashion gala from September 11-13 will be held at The Grand in the capital which will witness the presence of veteran and upcoming fashion designers and industry connoisseurs under one roof. The fashion week will showcase the best of Indian talent and will feature 15 shows and encompass over 40 exhibitors. The designers will focus on the various range of men's fashion starting from men's clothing to accessories.

Highlighting the requirement of an independent platform for men's fashion, Sunil Sethi, President FDCI said, "Men are active participants and contributors to the growth of fashion today. Menswear dominates a larger per cent of branded apparel sales in the country and the Week aims to give menswear designers a structured momentum and a much needed platform to tap this potential segment of fashion." Ask him the reason for the logo in all black and white and he says, (in a humorous way), "At least I can assure you that there is no grey in it." Members present at the occasion include JJ Valaya, Nikhil and Shantanu, Rohit Bal, Varun Bahl, Manoviraj Khosla, Renyu Taandon, Rina Dhaka and Vijay Arora. Among the participating designers, Rina Dhaka is the only women! The first edition of this fashion extravaganza will also provide a unique prospect to promising talent through the 'Van Heusen Emerging Designer of the Year Contest 2009' which will be organized in association with FDCI.

The winner will not only be felicitated, but will garner an opportunity to present designs at the Fashion Week itself. This contest, commencing on August 5 will offer an open platform for students and professional fashion designers with an experience of three years or less. The contestants will be judged by a panel of independent jury. Among all, three finalists will be requested to create the line based on the submitted sketches and model measurements provided to them. The final three will exhibit their line at the fashion event. On the basis of the final presentation, the jury will select the winner and will be awarded the Van Heusen Emerging Designer of the Year trophy and an appropriate reward at an award ceremony.

Your future projects I will be in Paris for 'Whosnext' early Sept. Mid September is Lakme Fashion Week in Mumbai. Early October, I will be participating in Tranoi, Paris. End Oct, there's Wills India fashion Week. I recently started a kid’s wear line to be launched at the MUSE Mumbai. Side by side I am also working on regular collections of home furnishing for Portico New York. Pearls of wisdom for upcoming designers be it any designer, they really need to believe themselves that they always should come up with something unique and incompatible. Certainly training help them a lot to enhance their skill. For more information you click Fashion Designers and get details.

Eyeing That Fashion Trendy & Comfortable

2009-08-22T03:18:00.000-07:00

"This is the first time I am doing something in eye wear because I think people don't have that much of option as far as eye wear's concerned. Eye wear today is being used as a personal style statement. People are looking at frames that are trendy and comfortable, that fit their overall lifestyle", said Kunal. The designer eye wear offers a wide range of stylish frames with the latest international fashion trends. Each stylish frame has single pieces with unfinished looks like for ex vintage, biker, second hand etc. The highpoint of the collection is the mixture of elements accompanied with amazing usage of colours like the rim is in gold and plastic in dull brown or silver. With its hint of colours, unique detailing and comfort quotient, Kunal embodies the spirit of today’s casual corporate style. Available in 30 styles, Kunal emphasizes on the fact that it's not easy to find the shapes he desired, mostly inspired from the era of 60s, 70s and 80s. "The world of eye wear is all about interesting shapes, unique lines and conversation-piece style frames. Eyeglasses are all about exaggerated rectangles, pointy edges, big frames, aviators, different shades, many more”, he summarized. The price range of this collection is in Rs. 5000 to 8000 and is available exclusively at the designer's workshop in Mumbai.

Designer duo Hemant and Nandita are back in news with their Autumn Winter 09 collection. Enlightening us about the concept and theme that holds the collection together, Nandita explained, "Since recession is the most fashionable word pronounced these days and is mostly expressed by hues like blacks and greys, my collection aims at conveying the message that even in this down fall, there are lots of colours that will be in fashion." Aptly named as ‘My Recession Shiny Black’, the collection is a mix of realism and dreaminess, and the clothes have sober embroidery which has been finished with a shiny wine colour. On this she added, "Though black is the colour of recession, people can't get enough of bling, so the black shiny and shimmering embroidery done on the outfits projects the positive aspect of the slump." The ensemble comprises two lines– Western prêt and Indo-Western Fusion. While the former targets young girls who believe that recession can’t affect their style statement, the latter traces back to the good old school days and emphasizes on comfortable, yet dressy and modern clothes. Semi-fitted dresses of varied lengths, with lots of pleats, button placket, tie-ups, belts and pockets make for the Western prêt line. Shading and ombre dying also finds a place in the creation. "The use of soft silk in the hues of black, white, greens and pinks is beautiful and portrays the hope people have in their minds," she concluded.

The fusion line comprises straight fits and slightly formal dresses with kimono sleeves, double breasted jackets, tunics with broad and cowl collars. Adding the fun element to the collection are the embellished pockets, velvet appliques, piping and pleats, done up with exciting patch work, and thread embroidery that accentuates on button placket. The use of stretch shiny linen in cyclone blue, grey, black and blended with a mix of fuchsia and maroon makes the collection stand apart. For details information you can see here Fashion Designers and get.

Tips of Indian designer Actress

2009-08-17T05:54:00.000-07:00

The very first official Indian designer for Barbie clothes launched her own label 'Nisshk' at 'Fuel' yesterday as mommy Neeta Lulla with family, watched her outshine one and all. This line of her is a complete girly collection reflecting her own style and sensibility. The range has a vintage feel to it; one could easily say that designs are dedicated to teenagers. However, each ensemble is so young and vibrant that anyone can wear it. The Black story had a full range of dresses with beautiful round necklines and stone works that made it look classy. Whites once again had their own purity with minimalism. Pinks and greys were also found aplenty. Net, georgette, chiffon, beautifully combined with crochet work and knits looked sensual. Pearls and other beaded accessories enhanced the vintage feel. Just teaming up those with veiled headgears would be reminiscent to that 80’s look. Juhi Chawla couldn't stop praising Nishka, in her words "I am amazed to see her designs. I wish I had teenage daughters and then I would have chosen most of it (the collection) for them. Initially, I was expecting her designs to be influenced by Neeta's designs however, I am actually surprised. It's totally different, completely 'Nishka'." Though Esha Deol loves to dress up in black, Nishka managed to mesmerize her with baby pinks and whites. "Personally, I like to be simple and mostly prefer black, however, I must confess that Nishka has done a fabulous job at this young age and managed to convince me likewise. Having 'Neeta' with her is an advantage and I am sure, she will carve a niche for herself pretty soon", said Esha at the launch.

Well we all are eager to know how Neeta felt about it, so here goes- "Nishka is a very hard working girl. Unlike me, she is truly focused on whatever she is doing at a time. In fact her design sensibility reflects her persona and taste. I have always been a tough boss to her when it comes to professional training, hope she does really well in this million dollar industry". 'Fuel' is one of the premiers in the business houses and also believes in giving a chance to young talents. Falguni Jhaveri from 'Fuel' says "I have always known Neeta's designs but quite surprised to see Nishka do such creative work in her own style. It's a privilege to retail her designs from our store". The fashion industry appeared like how to congratulate Nishka. Mr. Anil Chopra (Lakme), Lubna Adams (choreographer), Vikram Raizada (IMG), designers Vikram Phadnis and Anita Dongre visited to take a sneak peak of the young designers collection. We also spotted Leena Mogre, Royel Padamsee, Kishan Mulchandani and Parvez Damania. Neeta's association with Bollywood attracted most of the stars at the brunch. Sameera Reddy, Aftab Shivdasani, Celina Jaitley, Esha Deol, Juhi Chawla, Pooja Batra, Shreya Sharanand Neetu Chandra were few of them. Models, Kavita Kharayat, Netra Raghuna than and Deepti Gujral also made a quick appearance. More information you can see Celebrity Fashion and get details

Stylekandy.com was the first to report designer Pria Kataria Puri will be showcasing her collection in a fund raiser event at the annual Miss India, USA pageant. Now, in another first of sorts, we bring to you the coverage of the event with first hand information and pictures, before it's even aired on national television. The event opened with Pria's spectacular fashion show, showcasing an 'INDO WESTERN’ collection. Top models walked the ramp, all of them ex- Miss Indi as, USAs and Globes. There was a silent auction of few of pieces from the collection. Pria said, "I am very excited and honoured to represent India once again in an international platform for a great cause!" PKP had been invited to showcase at the same platform last year too. Lisa Ray, Judge of Mr and Ms Globe looked ravishing in Pria Kataria Puri's dresses- "she loved Pria's outfits so much, she decided to wear a golden sexy number for the red carpet and an off-white tulle elegant indo western outfit for the later part of the evening. Kiely Williams, who also walked the ramp and the Chetah Girls, looked stunning in Pria's silk jersey gowns and antique uncut bangles. Top celebrities from Hollywood and Bollywood came together to go down the red carpet, greet fans, pose for pictures, and experience an amazing night.

New Lifestyle Swimsong Sunday

2009-08-17T05:53:00.000-07:00

CES'T LA VIE at Bandra presented a whole new lifestyle experience in Mumbai for those who are looking for more options in recreation,leisure and wellness activities. Last Sunday, Basab and Annu Paul introduced the Swimsong Sunday Brunch, an ideal way to spend a lazy Sunday. Martin is at the poolside deck, foot reflexology massages, a dipin the (tented) pool followed by a lavish brunch at the gorgeous SkyBar while the music helped one unwind. After your invigorating swim,you can eat from a wide selection of Mediterranean and Western food anda drink from a selection of exotic martini sand beer! Also try theMushroom Capuccino, Prawn Bisque, Rocket and Cottage Cheese Salad, RedSnapper in Lemon Butter Sauce, Prawn and Saffron Rissotto, Grilled Cheese Stakes, Moussaka. End your meal with something sweet from the Brunch Menu- Lemon cheese cake, Tiramisu, Baked Yogurt, and Creme Brule.

Some of the guets who attended included Mukul Deora, Kanta Motwane,Yasmin Karachiwala, Sameer Malhotra, Binal and Pia Trivedi, VivekaBababji, Kanwal jeet, Nitan Kalwani, Uday Benegal; etc. The artist whowere seen explaining thier artistic creativity to the media and the artistic lovers were Anant Mishra, Arun Chatterji, Arunesh Dogra,Avishek Sen, Daina Mohapatra, Dhiraj Singh, Gagan Singh, Jenson Anto,Jyoti Ranjan Jena, Megha Joshi, Meghansh Thapa, Mukesh Sharma, PradoshSwain, Pratibha Singh, Rajarshi Smart, Raj Kumar Mohanti, Rana Debnath,Ratna Gandhi, Rituu Kamath, Dr. Sanjay Sahai, Sanjay Sundram, SatadruSovan, Shafi Qureshi, Sher Singh and Sushil Goswami. "A work of artwhich did not begin in emotion is not an art. The central theme of thisprogram is basically Connaught Place (CP) which was a relatively new city centre created by colonial town planners in 1911 when the capital of British India was shifted to Delhi from Calcutta.

The day New Delhi and CP were completed, all the power and a huge slice of dynamism flowed out of Old Delhi into the new colonial capital. By the early 2000's shopkeepers in CP were sad by the decline in the quality of their market but the arrival of the metro in CP suddenly injected a whole new energy into CP" explained Dhiraj Singh. "The CPTWNP Art Program aims to redefine and recharge CP as a living,learning epicentre of the artistic possibilities inherent in the WHYNOT? idea, that has the potential to revitalize any place, anything,Anyone" he added. Another artist, Gagan Singh's art has always been about deeply felt personal takes on the kind of quirky nexus of history and the present days. For Why Not Place, the artist began by soaking himself in the grammar of the architecture of Raj Rewal. He also discovered along the way, some of the terrible architecture strewn around CP.

Jenson Anto brought the onward journey on an unpredictable road which can be called as life-affirming approach through his art. Inspired by The Why Not Place theme, Jyoti Ranjan Jena embarked on a series ofvisual ideas which he serially set down on canvas at lightning speed.As her first task, Megha Joshi set up a plan for a large sculptural piece made entirely of milk bottles from the Keventer’s Dairy. The completed works of the artists is on display from 8th of August '09 to 23rd August '09, 7 p.m. onwards at Religare arts. i. Go and enjoy this cool place that will warm up your soul. More information you can see Fashion Week and get details.

Other celebrities who attended the event were Hollywood Actress Rekha Sharma of Battle star Galactica, Hollywood Actor Marco Khan of 10,000BC and Iron Man, Producer/Director Harry Baweja of Love Story 2050,Bollywood Actress Mallika Sherawat, Celebrity Trainer Rehan Jalali, Miss India America 2008 Ridhi Patel, Producer Brad Lister man of MyFaraway Bride, Miss South Asia 2008 Gunjan Nanda, and many others. The evening was also about promoting Jagriti Charity, founded by Kamlesh Chauhan, which is a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering South Asian women and youth.

Jewellery Fashion Show in Mumbai

2009-08-13T03:12:00.000-07:00

Mehul Choksi of Gitanjali is a famous man. Famous for running a jewellery brand which, by many, is cited as India's answer to L'oreal in terms of marketing and brand positioning with as many as five Indian beauties endorsing its various products. However, he is also an infamous man. .. if model Carol Gracias and show director Anu Ahuja is to be believed! At a recent jewellery fashion show in Mumbai, Carol seemed to be in no mood to talk to media. Apparently, the supermodel was miffed at Mehul Bhai (fondly called) for not clearing her dues for quite some time now. "I am not going to speak with media and let them (Gitanjali) extract publicity out of me…" she was overheard while speaking backstage with her friend. The PR agency tried pursuing Candice to talk with media persons and give bytes, but it was of no avail. Interestingly, the man himself was present at the occasion, playing a crucial role in the event promoted by World Gold Council.

In another tip off that we received, leading choreographer and fashion show director, Anu Ahuja seems to be facing the same woes from Gitanjali's head hauncho. Anu had directed a couple of shows for Gitanjali this year, and she has not received her remuneration till now. A competitor of Mehul Choksi, on condition of anonymity went on to confirm, "It's in his nature to hang payments… the only people he pays are stars", well, obviously he doesn't like Mehul bhai so much to make such an appalling statement. Mr. Choksi himself was not willing to comment and perhaps rightly so. Internal finances are a matter of confidence and one can never take sides without knowing the context of the story. May be he has held up payments with a reason or may be, it is recession that is tying him down… we don't know. But the ones who have dealt with him will surely know. Meanwhile, Stylekandy.com will respect the man for what he is. Fashion connoisseurs of the capital miss no opportunity to celebrate and this time the occasion was the first anniversary of the exotic culinary restro, Asia 7 and Fresco Co. The celebration took place in the form of a grand party offering its guests a unique Mediterranean ambience and cuisine along with the exotic flavours of seven countries. More information you can see here Fashion Week Coverage and get details

This occasion was a perfect treat for party hoppers. The get together witnessed a melange of the creme da le creme of the fashion fraternity and the Delhi society's A-listers with guests Rina Dhaka, Divya Burman, Ritika Awasthi, Sabina, Sudipto Mukherjee, Soni Aggarwal, Rohit Aggarwal, Amit Burman, Atul and Sonu Wassan, Fatima Karan, Saba Ali, Gauri and Nainika Karan,Varun Talwar and many more. Both Fresco Co and Asia 7 brought together the elegance of impressive decor and tantalizing aromas of their array of dishes. Their prompt service and pleasant ambience were the biggest attractions among many others. Whosoever present in the party enjoyed an extensive variety of cocktails and dinner along with a live band by Peter, delighted to play all international requests.

Point 76 Degree Beauty Fashion

2009-08-13T03:11:00.000-07:00

The whole world says it, but few have the courage to do it. We are facing a big problem in the form of climatic change. Young artist Puneet Gupta tries to address these issues at the recent exhibition in the capital. Puneet has made a climatic chair that depicts the reality of the shrinking world – with our resources getting extinct, changing our verdant world into a punctured dead planet and leading us to the ultimate doom. So how this idea came into mind "When everyone was designing the display of luxury, this idea struck in my mind. On one side, it shows the need for luxury and on the other side, it reflects on how we are getting these luxury products at the cost of life." "There is a place called Lohachara which is a part of Sundarban delta near the state of West Bengal once a home to 10,000 Indians. Now this place has been washed from the face of the earth with the increase in sea level. But we are not at all concern. In short you can say that we are in a giant car heading toward a brick wall and everyone's arguing over where they are going to sit," he added.

Well tried Puneet, but are your effort really going to make any change whatsoever? "I have named this chair point 76 degree because the Earth's average surface temperature has risen by 0.76° C since 1850. This might sound very miniscule but it has created quite a herald already it can be worst if we do not stop at point 76 degree and do not let it go beyond this. I have made my point rest is on the individuals, how they take it" Inclined towards fine arts at school level, this trained Fashion Communication Designer walked into NIFT for pursuing Fashion Communication equipped with a two year Art Foundation Course at school. So what inspired him to take up this profession, "I find it very exciting to combine many realms of design into one complete canvas, never liked sticking to one realm. I see design finding a space in every element of life. Be it the mundane or the special. This pursuit stems from my belief that refined designs are experiential and need to touch your .So this inspired to make things this way". A Graphic designer , Visual Merchandiser, Photographer, Space Designer, Exhibition Designer, Packaging Design, Signage Design, Event Management, Consumer Behavioural Study, Fashion Forecasting etc how does he manage so many things together? He replies, "That's what keeps me going, helps in blending different things together".

Beauty, fashion, accessories were all part of this night. Imagine an evening under the charm of a starry night, swathed in the golden mood, classy touch of elegance and witnessing the magic of minerals the capital witnessed it all on 6th of August at Cibo in Hotel Janpath where the Swedish cosmetic major, Oriflame unveiled its latest Giordano Gold Mineral collection. The launch of this new range of cosmetics happened in the presence of the city's fashion glitterati. The stunning mineral makeup looks were showcased by city's top models like Amanpreet Wahi, Montu Tomar and many more as they ablaze the ramp on fire in Anjana Bhargav' sclassy designs. The collection depicted feminine cuts with fine textures and displayed a plethora of earthy and warm hues in a deconstructed look. She managed well to play around with pleats and tucks which were nicely draped to present a chic and contemporary look to the ensembles. Portraying the classy lustre of timeless art, the garments were nicely teamed up with gold accessories which can be described as an understated elegance. For more information for fashion & beauty related you see here Models Photos and get details.

International Fashion Weeks for Women

2009-08-13T03:08:00.000-07:00

With versatility as her strength, this Kolkata based model had started her journey at a very young age. Sonali Sehgal has won the Miss India International crown in 2009 and after that it has been no looking back. With her dad an army man and mom a business women, this English graduate is all set to rule the modelling world with her appropriate looks and attitude. Here’s this gorgeous girl in candid one on one with Stylekandy.com Best thing about being a model Every model will agree with this one – we get to travel those amazing destinations, look pretty, wear astounding designer clothes and get paid for the same! Fashion for you. Fashion is something which passes from eras to generations. But at the end, it has to be there within you. Your fitness regime I am very bad in it. I simply hate working out. Luckily, I am genetically blessed with this figure. I know you won't believe this, but I don’t compromise on eating. To keep myself fit, I indulge in swimming and dancing.

Walking the ramp or posing for print ads. Choose Ohhh honestly, I love posing for print ads and TV commercials as they allow me to perform well. At the same time I would not deny the fact that walking the ramp is just a different feeling walking in front of a live audience and presenting those gorgeous garments. But yes commercials are more fun for me! Models are used as a hanger. Agree or disagree? Yes I do agree, but at the same time, we add a lot more to the garments. I would like to put it in a way that we are the more expressive, sexy and beautiful hangers! Favourite designers I do not have any one favourite designer. It changes from time to time. While walking the ramp, I end up finding any one garment attractive, so I simply do not go by the designer, instead fall for the designs and creativity of the garments.

Foreign models getting preferences in Indian Fashion Week is a debate. Your take I have nothing against it even we are working in international fashion weeks and are welcomed there so I think everyone should be allowed to work according to their own preferences. It’s a free world. As far as Indian models are concerned, they are given due respect. It’s totally cool with me after all there are very nice Indian models who have made it big in the global platform.

How do you cope with all the pressure, competition? Yes like any other profession, even we have the pressures and stress. There are times when we have to do a lot in less time at that time I just try to calm my self utilize the time in the right direction and perform well. Favourite pass time? Oh. I love to spend time with my six months old Labrador, Bounty. Like any other girl, I love to sleep, watch a lot of movies in theatres and simply enjoy hanging out with friends. Some thing that most people do not know about? Hmmm there is nothing as such but yes, I want to confess that at times I can be quite mean and stern. What next after modeling? As I have just started, so it will be too early to comment on that. I am already in shows like Dadagiri on UTV Bindaas where I am playing the goddess. Alongside, I am also hosting a show called India ka Fashion Star on Zoom. These things keep me going, I am sure that I am here to stay. For more infprmation you can see here Fashion Week and details.

Celebrity India Independence Day

2009-08-13T03:07:00.000-07:00

Though in the political front, 15th of August is only a one day commemoration but fashion and glamour world is already in the mood of celebrating the Independence Day. Recently, the capital witnessed the presence of all the fashionistas at the well known party destination, Manre where Bridal Asia along with veteran designer Abha Dalmia and jewellery designer Payal Gupta depicted the importance of the tri-colour in an Indian wedding. Totally in sync with the celebration was the environment which was drenched in the colours of our national flag. In order to add more traditional touch to the ambience, the venue was decorated with nice tri-colored kites, marigolds, leaves and fabrics. Seen visibly excited, Divya Gurwara of Bridal Asia was a perfect host to all the high profiled guests who joined the merriment. "With this theme, we wanted to express that being traditional with Independence Day can also be very fashionable. Orange and saffron are considered as the auspicious colours in any Indian wedding," Divya Gurwara continued, "white is the shade of light, truth and peace and is present in every color, while green is the colour of the heena and also the colour of life." Presenting her new collection – Jahanara – the jewellery designer Payal Gupta was quite elated to complete her three year association with Bridal Asia. "I have been exhibiting in Bridal Asia from past three years, and with this new theme, we thought to give a twist and launch it before the Independence Day instead of unveiling it before Diwali."

The aim of this gathering and celebration was to highlight the colour and tradition of India by showcasing the hues of freedom. While the collection showcased by Payal was in tune with the theme of the festival that was adorned with corals, emeralds and pearls. On the other hand the saree collection by Abha Dalmia concentrated on the intricate Benarasi weaves which is very much in trend. "Since I always believe in women's independence, with this theme I wanted to uplift the women of the weavers who have done this beautiful and delicate work on these elegant sarees," said Abha Dalmia. The gorgeous and classic ladies who were seen flaunting sarees by Abha Dalmia and jewellery of Payal Gupta were Neeva Jain, Kalyani Chawla, Ramola Bachhan, Divya Gurwara, Vinita Jain, Bindiya Jain, Sharmila Dalmia and Alpana Gujral. Others who joined the party include Sweetie Burman, Tanisha Mohan, Shabnam Singhal, Supriya Nihal Singh, Subhalaxmi Khan and many more. "When all the laces are undone, when all the petticoats have fallen, the woman is dressed only in her perfume." Well said! The sour orange skin sweetened by rose with white musk and cider frizzy background may lead you towards this sensual feel. Yes! A year after the launch of the first Ma Damescent, comes Jean Paul Gaultier's latest fragrance creation; the fresh pink Rose 'N' Roll.

In honour of Ma Dame's first anniversary, the designer will also launch two new limited edition collector fragrance bottles under the name Rose N Roll (keeping the Ma Dame Juice unchanged), one in 75 ml Eau de Toilette and another in 50 ml. The case is created with excesses. The bottle features ironic and balanced graphics, recalling the posters of rock concerts. The amalgamation of elegant black and aggressive fluorescent pink with white's purity is just astounding. The so called 'cool' perfume inspired its own record. The perfume is sufficient to allure your senses with a fresh and slightly malicious feel. Working with DJ Martin Solveig and Canadian band Dragonette, Gaultier paid homage to Rose 'N' Roll's feminine yet edgy blend of orange, rose petal, grenadine, musk and cedar with a music and video project, shot at his Maison De Couture in Paris and entitled Boys and Girls. For the celebration of the Ma Dame, Gaultier Maison de Couture has collaborated with a yet to be revealed artist. It's pumping the volume, shaking any tails, and shrouding itself in mystery. The new Jean Paul Gaultier campaign kicked off with a teasing phase broadcast all over the Internet and on the official website 'madame.com'. This continued mystery raised the curiosity and managed a huge traffic for the website. If you wish to pamper yourself in this seductive fragrance, find it at Debenhams. Get more information you can see Indian Fashion Shows and find.

Italian Gold Designs to India

2009-08-08T03:32:00.000-07:00

Gold is counted amongst one of the classics which can never fade away. Introducing best of Italian gold designs to India, World Gold Council unveiled Gold Expressions 2009 on the ramp yesterday evening in Mumbai. The event took place in association with Vicenza Fair International, Anglo Gold Ashanti and D’damas. These alluring classy designs were carried by some of the top models of the industry, Carol Gracious, Fleur Xavier and Sonal Rawat elevating the aesthetic value of gold. Beautiful costumes were designed by designer duo Dev R Nil. The multi talented Sophie Chaudhary was the host of the evening and allured the audiences with her wonderful performance. In her words, "beautiful costume, lovely music and sparkling gold jewellery, the combination just makes me alive. I am very fond of gold and I feel, in India gold had its own traditional value. My mother has given me such traditional gold pieces which she got from her mother and older generations. This line of designs by Gold Expressions is amazing and perfect contemporary designs for today's women." The lines comprised of three themes- Connect, Extraordinary and Transform. 'Connect' depicted the designs bridging the cultural and traditional boundaries with a mix of contemporary touch. It was a thrilling collection with colour and texture and intricate details. 'Extraordinary' took inspiration from ordinary forms turning into unconventional shapes. This line was reminiscent of fun with fashion. 'Transform' was more feminine and elegant and also softer in technicality. It was a symbolic representation of dominance of nature inspired by scientific advancement highlighting the intrinsic connection between the two. Mr Mehul Choski (chairman and MD, Gitanjali Gems) said at the occasion "D'damas gold has always been known for its exclusive designs, aiming to create aesthetically appealing jewellery for discerning Indian Women and with this collection, we link with a woman's style and individuality."

This exquisite range of Italian designs, gave gold a new direction enhancing feminity through a perfect mix of fashion, modernity and refinement. By and large it was a gold sparkling soiree with wonderful sensual music attended by creme de la creme of corporate industry. Saris are to Satya Paul what Obama is to world politics. The iconic brand Satya Paul is known globally for its signature prints, ingenuity of designs and a vivid colour palette and innovative draping, but also written off as being stereotypical and lacking inspiration at times. However, this festive season, Satya Paul seems to be trying to break the genre and likewise has come up with a bridal collection replete to leheng as and cholis with that added touch of Indianness. Though there may not be anything epoch making about the silhouettes, the colour scheme and the prints are noteworthy. Says Puneet Nanda, "Satya Paul's evolution from a quintessential Indian designer sari label to a global brand for international couture is rested upon the intrinsic value, of proactive response to the entire universe it operates in and not just the fashion fraternity", the Head Designer explained the reason for churning out a collection in which saris are not pre dominant. If you want to get more information you can see here Fashion Week Coverage and found details.

The fluid form, flamboyant use of colours and experimental dash are key-defining elements that render the label a creative freedom to be used in this festive collection. Puneet's collections are a reflection of the artist and art curator within him. Each sari is a 6-yard canvas for Puneet where he paints and designs all that influences and inspires him. The creations are known to have been inspired by classical art forms such as Calligraphy, sculpture and many genres of art. The label has a varied range of extended product lines which comprises of saris, bridal wear; fusion and western clothing consisting of scarves, bags, accessories and fabrics. It also has the Tie bar, which has an exclusive collection of designer ties.

Industry of Fashion where I learned

2009-08-07T05:14:00.000-07:00

Designer Anand Kabra is a free thinker, unconfined to any conventional style statement. His designs are born from a deeply personal space. His collections always reflect his own inner being while his philosophy is the belief of self expression. A product of international education blended perfectly with core Indian sensibility, this designer knows how to make an individual more glamorous without over powering them with the clothes. Let’s get to know more about this designer who is termed as ‘the designer for the quintessential global woman’- How designing came into being… I wanted to be a doctor but things just fell into place one after the other for designing. I was sitting in the cafeteria in the London College of Fashion where I learned about form and design. There I discovered that there is no fixed form and definite design for making a collection. Splats of tomato sauce and coffee stains on a chequered table cloth proved the ultimate inspiration! Your design philosophy… It's the single thought you unearth after delving into sea of thoughts. It’s the thread I choose to weave into each creation. Latest buzz of one fashion week in Delhi… I have no clue what's happening, my main concern was to concentrate on my work and how to improve it. Fashion trend getting repetitive… Fashion is always cyclic; you will see the same trend coming up after every 10-12 years. Staging of shows at fashion weeks needs to make business sense. It is not about established or new designers -- the objective of showing a collection differs from designer to designer. Some people use it for visibility and some for sales -- but whatever the case, it needs to translate into business returns, whether immediate or long-term.

The coming of fashion hub… so you see the plan coming out of paper… I do not know seriously, there is so much happening everywhere that this news has been lost somewhere... at least I can not comment on this. Has recession affected the fashion industry… There are slight changes in the buying pattern and it's all boiled down to need-based buying as opposed to impulsive buying; everyone is looking to get 'value for money' and multiple buys have been reduced to single purchases. The consumer is still willing to spend money provided it is justified. The designers that you admire... I like the style of French designers, crafts technique of Japan and Indians of course which is the mix of everything. Western silhouettes is as much as part of our Indian ness as is the Indian ethos in international style. Your future projects…I am busy promoting some of my stores then will come up with a new couture range for the next season. I might do Kolkata Fashion Week also. If you want to known more information you can click Fashion Week Coverage and get details.

India Fashion Runways

2009-08-04T04:37:00.000-07:00

Mumbai-based model, Tamara Mosswith her suave and sultry image hascreated a wave in the modelling circuit. Be it the much talked about'Kingfisher Calendar'or the recent 'Provogue' campaigns, you can notbut notice her everywhere! She is quite often seen on fashion runwaysin New York, Milan, Paris and India. Bolly wood is not too far away forthis leggy lass! In a Stylekandy.com exclusive, this Indo-Dutch beautyenlists the other priorities of life The start. It began in Bangalore 3years ago, when Anil a Anand began sending out my Polaroids. I did manyinteresting shoots with her and Prabuddho Das Gupta. however thefashion scene at the time was largely unprofessional with con jobself-proclaimed co-ordinators making work most unpleasant for buddingtalent. Show fees were not paid on time, in the case of Ramesh Dembla,a so-called designer and social butterfly, show fees were not paid atall! Then While in Bangalore I met the lovely Rashmi Virmani, whoconvinced me to sign on with her Delhi based agency called 'The Ramp',which was a bit of a joke. On numerous occasions I was speaking withthe client directly to negotiate my rates from which her agency woulddemand a percentage, although I had done the collaborative work.

Lakhs of rupees were held and cheques bounced until I completely lostit with their lack of ethics and stopped working with them altogether!Now Eventually, I saw that I had to move to Mumbai to continue aprofessional career with a well-established agency. I have been withAtul Kasbekar' sagency Bling for over a year now and am thrilled towork with managers who have their finger on the pulse of fashion andcommercial work in India. You need both! The best thing about being amodel. The international travel and highly creative professionals Iwork with. Fashion to me means good fit, quality design and a bit ofeclecticism. For more you can click here Fashion Week Coverage and get details.

Cindy Crawford work outs, yoga and lots of love! Walking on the ramp orposing for print ads, more appealing and why Shoots are more work andtherefore more interesting, but if it's a well choreographed show withamazing clothes and beautiful make-up and hair styling then a show anyday! What's your take on the famous dialogue 'models are used ashangers'. If only it was that easy! Obviously the scriptwriter knowsnothing about the amount of work which goes into modelling as a career,or was just trying to make some metaphorical or character revealingpoint. Right look or Right attitude Neither. Be yourself! People in theindustry are mature enough to know that you are young and fallible.Designer you admire. I love Rajesh Pratap Singh, for the fit andbecause the clothes channel androgynous effortlessly. I like to tear upand re-design my own clothes. Coping with the pressure Insecurities area waste of time, and it's my bevy of stunning friends from all fieldsof work who inspire me to excellence. Bitchiness bores me to death andI have consciously removed myself from the envious gossipy types whohave nothing better to do than sit around and talk shit all day. Butthese are few and far between. I wholly enjoy my work and full life,that’s why I do it! Any secret of yours I want to make the firstskydiving club in India.

Arts Jewellery Fashion Designer Show

2009-08-03T05:18:00.000-07:00

Climate change is a stark reality and represents one of the greatestenvironmental, social and economic threats facing the planet. I feel,as a designer, it's our responsibility to bring these issues ofinternational relevance across the society" said Puneet Gupta. A bridgebetween beautiful homes and inspiring home makers, the party witnessedthe who's who of fashion circuit enjoying to their best. Some of theguests seen chatting were Rohit Bal, Shibani Kashyap, Charu Parashar,Thenny, Raghavendra Rathore, Thenny, Nida Mahmood, Ramneek Paintal,Blossom Kochhar, Vijay Arora, Sanjay Kapoor, Varun Bahl, Ashima andLeena and many more. Shyamal and Bhumika, best known for their Indiainspired collection, incepted their fashion journey in 2006 with LakmeFashion Week. They have now successfully made a mark in the industry asthey continue to mesmerize buyers and fashionst as with their Indiandesigns. Stylekandy.com caught up with the designers to know more abouttheir preferences and design sensibilities. Ask them the reason fortaking up fashion designing as a career and Shyamal reveals, "I wantedto become an architect since childhood. Probably it was the familyinfluence since my dad belongs to designing field mom is a jewellerydesigner. Bhumika adds, "I am a NIFT graduate and when I met him wethought of launching our own in 2009." The duo look India-wards forinspiration. "Our designs mostly incorporate an Indian element- handembroideries and Indian handicraft. Even abroad, most of our clientsare Indian, who actually crave for ethnicity in clothing. When we haveto design for the western market, we keep global aesthetics in mind.Handicrafts are our forte", explained Shyamal.

"When makingwestern designs, we certainly refer to the global forecast. However,the ultimate decision is taken by our hearts. Despite the prediction wealways decide on instinct and creativity", uttered Bhumika. On alighter note, we asked them what is the best compliment they have evergot. "Our collections have always been appreciated by people. It feelsamazing when people email us or come and say that they love our work orthey looked lovely in the designs. Also, there is no bigger complimentthan feeling satisfied by one’s own designs!" they speak diplomaticallyin tandem. They feel that designer play a huge role in reviving art andcraft. "Almost all designers use some kind of handwork. That ways, theart gets promoted and craftsmen are benefitted. It is true thatexploitation of this class exists, more so in rural areas, but oneshould make a conscious effort to remain fair and just. We should notdepend on the government to help them out" Bhumika opines. Their ideaof style is very simple and sophisticated. "When I have to style myself, I make it semi casual. Probably a simple basic coat with asubtle, extra noticeable element in it, paired with denims which arecomfortable." When not designing, Shyamal like reading books and shortstories. "I also design interiors since I like architecture." Enjoyexploring various cultures through travelling and horse riding are someof the other hobbies the duo enjoy. If you want to get more Fashion Week Coverage click here and some thing details.

Fashionist Beauty Designs

2009-07-31T05:47:00.000-07:00

Jimmy Choo recently unveiled their latest launch which is meant especially for Indian fashionist as who want to add glamour in their style quotient. The 'Cosma' bag and the 'Kenzie' shoe that has been launched by the very gorgeous Malaika Arora Khan at DLF Emporio in the capital witnessed the fashion connoisseurs appreciating the beauty of the designs. "India has been a very important market for us and we wanted to celebrate this important milestone of opening stores here with these exclusive India Special products. Jimmy Choo has been closely associated with India for the inspiration for some of its products", said Joshua Schulman, Chief Executive Officer, Jimmy Choo. 'Cosma' and 'Kenzie' are both made in brilliant gold complementing all the vibrant colours of Indian fashion. These designs have been created as a celebration for Jimmy Choo's success story in India and keeping in mind the stunning and stylish JC patron. The people, the colours, the scents, the landscapes and the buildings in India have all given inspiration to the design team who visited the country few years back to create these pieces.

Some of the new initiatives which are on the cards in 2009 are the launch of new categories, re-launch of interactive websites within July and many more" Joshua Schulman added. When we asked Malaika, looking glamorous as ever in metallic brown dress about the collection, she said, "I adore Jimmy Choo for their finest qualities and beautiful designs. I am not much into accessories but yes I can say that a nice pair of footwear can make me ready for any event or party". Present at the launch were Tanisha Mohan, Sanjay Kapoor of Genesis, Anushkha Manchandaani, Ravi Kishen, Malini Ramani, Nikhil and Shantanu Mehra with Wife Reema and Vidhushi Mehra, Koel Puri, Kajal Eijaz, Kalyani Chawla, Sanjay and Sheena Sharma, AD Singh with wife Sabeena Singh, JJ Valaya, Nikhil and Shantanu, Feroz Gujral looking very stunning in off shoulder dress, Suniel Sethi, Shabnum Singhal, Ranna Gill, Divya Gurware, Suneet Verma, Sumeet Nair with wife Geetanjali and the list goes on.

I really do not believe in too much of interaction and leave it for the audience to decide about me or my character in the movie. However, once I tried (long back) chatting with my fans and one of my ids was trashed because of thousands of friendship invitations. For actors like us, it's kind of difficult and also risky at times to directly interact with the audience. I do not believe in blogging or writing or even talking too much about myself for that matter. The three 'Khans' rule the film industry, do you think you will be the fourth one after this movie? Well I really have no clue. There are also stars that are not 'Khans' and it's not about one or two people. I would say stars are also the part of the constellation (politically correct Saif). As far as me being the fourth one is concerned I just want to say- Saif will be the Star- at least for this movie. What do you want to say about you looking similar to Ranbir Kapoor in one of the posters? It's actually the 'Deepika effect', by the way she is very happy about the fact! Jokes apart, we actually wanted to capture the motion effect in one of the posters and while trying to achieve the look, this is what happened!.

With the beauty and wellness industry in India going great guns, Iosis medispa comes up with the promise of 'The Midas touch' to transcend one into the world of ethereal beauty and serenity. The spa is the new brainchild of beauty specialist Mrs. Kiran Bawa and the epitome of beauty Shilpa Shetty. The symbol of timeless beauty 'Rekha' was the guest of honour at the opening of this flagship outlet on 26th of July at Bandra, Khar. Needless to say it was a star studded soiree including divas such as Sushmita Sen, Pooja Bedi, Queenie Dhody, Aditya Pancholi and the list goes on. Sush amazed everyone in her new slim avtaar. Rekha was stunning as always in an all black attire. Choreographer and director of Indian Film frat Farah Khan made a quick appearance to congratulate Shilpa and visited the spa. For more information you can click here Fashion Week Coverage and details

Shilpa's parents Surendra and Sunanda Shetty with daughter Shamita Shetty also made their presence felt. Ace designer Neeta Lulla was seen in her signature style, all black (the only face from fashion fraternity) with daughter Nishka. Ekta Kapoor, Nisha Jamwal, Leena Mogre, Ashmit Patel, Rohit Roy added to the list. Television actors Karishma Tanna and Manoj Bohra entered with their friends. Apparently Shilpa Shetty who is slowly shifting her base from acting to business proudly says that "I am a Shetty (laughs), business is in my blood however I would still like to be called an actor first. "Just to remind you guys, her involvement in business includes the IPL, her own production house which she does not have time for and now 'Iosis Medi spa'. Kiran Bawa who is equally the partner in it informed "there are very few places where you get all treatment under one roof and Iosis Medispa is one of them. Here we provide you the fusion of all- beauty, fitness, spa and skin treatment. We are planning for the chain of spa and going global very soon."

Models Ramp Designers Outfits

2009-07-30T04:52:00.000-07:00

We have always seen models walk the ramp in designer outfits. But afashion show recently held in the capital was quite unique in its ownway. The designer outfits was very much there, but the models werereplaced by well known faces of the fashion circuit who walked the rampfor Khushii, the NGO for underprivileged kids. This time Khushiibrought together India's leading style gurus at its first fashioninspired event 'A Rendezvous with Elegance', conceptualized exclusivelyby the newly inducted Governing Board Member, philanthropist by natureand trendsetter in the fashion world- Leena Singh (Ashima – Leena)."The statement that fashion designers are mostly associated withglamour, is not true. We definitely think about the society and look infor various opportunities to contribute. As a designer, all I could dowas to communicate my idea to other designers and they really liked theconcept and got ready to participate in this social cause" sheexplained. The memorable fashion show witnessed Creations by 21 Indiandesigners, including Ranna Gill, Nikhil and Shatanu, Varun Bahl, RohitBal, Rajesh Pratap Singh and many more with beautiful ladies andaccomplished gentlemen displayed the breathtaking ensembles.

Seenwalking on ramp were Ramola Bachchan, Feroz Gujral, the very beautifulKalyani Chawla, model turned actor Sudhanshu Pandey, Irfan Khan, thestunning Tina Chatwal, Tanisha Mohan, couples AD & Sabina Singh andSanjay & Sheena Sharma, Vandhana Vadehera along with models LaxmiRana, Sonalika Sahay, Esha Gupta and Lalit Tehran. The best part of theshow was when the 'strong man' of fashion, FDCI President, Suniel Sethitook a shy turn on the ramp while walking. Former cricketer Kapil Devwho is also the chairman of Khushii shared the ramp with beautifulwomen. The evening has also seen Ritu Kumar, Thenny, JJ Valaya, Gauriand Nainika, Mohd Azzarudin and Rina Dhakab ask in the glory of theenviron. "I am very grateful to all the designers who have came forwardfor this cause and presented such a grand show which was not onlyenjoyable but also beneficial in some way or the other" Kapil said.This was essentially a fund raiser event and the proceeds will beutilised for the betterment of the kids who are in need ofsocio-economic development. Samsaara, the luxurious abode of fashion,showcased the latest collection. For more information you can clickhere Fashion Week Coverage and get details

unveiledby budding designer Payal Kapoor who is all set to debut in theupcoming fashion week. Though she stayed non-committed on which fashionweek will she showcase at, she is excited about the developments and iskeeping her fingers crossed for the same. The designer, who believes indesigning for the modern woman, takes her inspiration from nature,events and objects around the world. Her brand – Famous – talks aboutthe fusion of the traditional with the modern. Payal expressed, "I haveused a range of fabrics starting from chiffons, georgettes, cotton andlace which is a blend of viscose and polyester. Being a textiledesigner myself, tie-n-dye has been one of the techniques which I haveapplied a lot in my creations." The plethora of colours which appearsin this art of dyes really comes out well on the fabrics. Talking aboutthe colour palette, she revealed that coral, light pink, blue, salmon,turquoise and red are used extensively.

Since the designer istargeting contemporary women between the age group of 25-60 years, thecollection presents a subtle yet trendy look with very minimalembellishments which have been accentuated by a bit of shine sprinkledeverywhere. Clothes have been adorned with yellow and blue colouredstones, with touches of Swarovski crystals which offer a sophisticatedlook to the ensembles. Borrowing inspiration from the Indian saridrapes, the silhouettes are underlined with full body drapes whichaccording to the designer are simple yet slightly tweeted. Stocked atthe Samsaara store, the collection comprises tunics, dresses, gowns andkurtis. "Kurtis are going to be a big style statement even in the nextseason. These are wardrobe essentials." she concluded.

National Level Grooming Fashion Show

2009-07-29T05:58:00.000-07:00

No no no you cannot ask us what season the BFW is showcasing. There isno season. There are just shows. The shows have been put togetherdepending upon the availability of the garments with the designer.Mohit Falod from Jaipur presented his bridal collection (if that's whatit was) that was inspired by nature giving a message to conserve nature(how? Good question). The most impressive thing about the wholecollection was the interesting jacket and the blingy waist belt thatthe designer himself wore while he walked the ramp. Its nice to besupportive about new talent showcasing new collections at a new BFW butcome on the Bangalore audience and buyers (Yes we did hear a murmurhere and there about zara and all hopes are on Kimaya making anappearance 'any time now') are well traveled and have a decent fashionsensibility. Why would they want to pick up a designer mirror shop towear? If BFW is grooming these designers to compete at a national levelwith renowned designers they need to step up and put their money wheretheir mouth is. Where is the ‘quality’ aspect that was touted so oftenbefore the BFW started.

Beautiful saris, some passe menswear,interesting dresses, again some more forgettable menswear, some gownsthat's how the sequence flowed. No you cannot ask us abouttrends/seasons. It does not apply. And wait a minute now where have Iseen these clothes before? Aaaahh yes at the other fashion shows heldin the city a couple of months ago with the very same accessories.Well, that's as much as we can say about the clothes because if we wereto go in to a description it would have been a repeat for the umpteenthtime. And well the description really wouldn’t make much of animpression.

The clothes were good but not exceptional oranything to write home about. And somewhere down the line the seniordesigners have been given the impression that a fashion show at afashion week means emptying your closet and putting everything that isthere in it on the ramp. I sincerely thought it was supposed to beprediction of the next season's trends. Looks like a re-education is inorder. Well, can not blame them they either do not care about thebuyers or for the concept of a fashion week or are using this chance toshowcase all that they have to individual customers as there is nonational / international buyer that we can see/hear/smell.

Apartfrom the dismal clothes the rest was pure entertainment. A full housewith all the local socialites in full attendance no one could complainabout the lack of audience at this show. Kanadda actors Diganth andAindrita Ray were the show stoppers of the show. After having gottensuch a beautiful showstopper we wonder what possessed the designer tomake her dress up in borrowed pieces of clothing with a fish scale topand a sheath of cloth posed as a skirt and a cape longer thansuperman's which was tied around her shoulders with knots uhhhmmmmdunno what was playing in the designer's mind. If you want get moreinformation you can click here Fashion Week Coverage and find details.

Awell put together collection consisting of mainly whites and beigesDelhi based designer Samant Chauhan presented his Spring/Summer 2010collection at the BFW today which comprised of both men's and women'swear. The invitee designers seem to be the only ones sticking to someseason. He presented a completely fresh collection called the 'GreenCollar' using linen, bhagalpur silk and his patented ahimsa silk. The30 pieces were like a wave of fresh white energy. His collection wasinspired by the collared executive who would want to do his little bitfor the green movement. Bandhgala jackets accessorized with leatherbelts, armbands and satchel bags stood out in the collection as did thedresses and shifts teamed with ruffled boyfriend shorts. Talking aboutBFW Samant said, "The response that I am getting from the collection isquite a surprise. I was not really expecting sales as I was invited toshow here." He already has a client base here as he did participate ina few of the menswear weeks organized by Prasad Bidappa some two yearsback. “People from Bangalore, Chennai and Hyderabad are coming up toask me about my collections. Nothing concrete has happened as of now asit was just a meeting in passing. I will be meeting them tomorrow totake things forward." On the fashion scene he commented, "The fashionaudience in Bangalore is very literate. They know what they want. Forme the opportunity to showcase my collection at BFW helped me to gathervaluable feedback about my collections." In Bangalore you will see himat Opus and Cheeros very often as he enjoys the Bangalore hospitalityand awesome weather.

Fashion Show Restaurant Reviews Collection

2009-07-27T02:24:00.000-07:00

French designer probably most well known for his tattoo art-inspired Ed Hardy clothing line plans to buy MJ'shouse and turn it into MJ memorial. No, not Neverland I am talking about, it's the one he was renting for $100,000 a month in LA. The US based designer, known for his Von Dutch and Ed Hardy collections, plans to create a Jacko-themed complex similar to Elvis Presley's Graceland and to open it for public every year on 25th of June. The 50-year-old singer Jackson reportedly suffered a cardiac arrest at the Audigier mansion on Thursday 25th of June 09 and died hours later. Rather than renting out the seven-bedroom home again, the designer, who leases the estate from Ed Hardy CEO Hubert Guez, plans to relocate his headquarters there in December 09. Ok, if you are wondering about MJ being friends with Audigier then let me tell you, to quote a Michael Jackson song, "You Are Not Alone" Audigier apparently became fast friends with Michael in 2008 when the two made each other's acquaintance.

Jackson even made an appearance at Audigier's birthday party. Well, as brief as their friendship was, Audigier now feels so inspired by his late friend's passing that he is buying the house to give a Tribute to the 'King of Pop' Michel Jackson. Just to inform you Colony Capital bought the California ranch in 2008 for 20 million pounds ($32 million) and is keen to sell. Never land is now worth an estimated 60 million pounds. Though it’s a nice gesture however the point to be considered is how the Jackson family feels about it.

The Paris Couture Week has definitely witnessed some breathtaking designs and creations from the famed fashion houses. Unlike the previous collection, fashionist as present out there approved and accepted its new creation from the house of Valentino. Taking the design legacy forward, the designer duo successfully took over from their precursor Alessandra Facchinetti by presenting their second haute couture collection. The celebrated shade of red was found missing from the Valentino runway after the designer Valentino Garavani retired. And this time, the co-creative directors, Maria Grazia Chiuri and Pier Paolo Piccioli chose black, beige, multiple variations of grey that include metallic and gunmetal as their color palette. Maria Grazia Chiuri and Pier Paolo Piccioli, who were the former accessories designers of the house are definitely taking Valentino in a totally new direction. With what Piccoli called, A story of shadows, the collection featured leggy dresses and miniskirts which came with ruffles, lace, in shades of blacks that provided a young, sexy and seductive look.

Bustiers in nude tulle put the foundation of the two-toned collection, which was overlaid by panels of black peek-a-boo lace. The thigh-skimming skirts offered that perfect ladylike look. Taking the show ahead, the leggy dresses and miniskirts were followed by floor-length gown made from tufts of black tulle, teamed up with a beige bustier. Along with tunic dresses, the runway also witnessed some numbers of crinoline skirts that flared in the back. The designer used quite a bit of lace in chiffon and organza with encrusted and crinoline flashes. Some of the dresses had the simplicity of t-shirts, others came with short dance skirts, bustled and ruffled and sometimes glinting with muted silver beading. The detailed craftsmanship can be easily seen in each ripple and shadow layers of the tulle. The models were given a nude look with not much make-up. The headpieces with extravagant organza volume were amazing.

Since the year 1978, Amrapali has become synonymous with fine handcrafted jewellery made of silver and gold. The fine craftsmanship and the original expressions are truly represented by the magnificence and the brilliance of every piece that Amrapali manufactures. Their Collection has a broad range for wearers who appreciate beautiful and delicate jewellery. Squares, circles, triangles, hexagons, cones and cubes…The designers at Amrapali lifted them out of the pages of geometry textbooks and used them to create an eclectic new jewellery collection called "The Magic of Geometry". Some pieces have a distinctly youthful, funky feel, while in some you’ll find symmetry and texture stylishly juxtaposed. For information you can click hare Models Photos and get details

Some are boldness personified, demanding to be noticed. Yet others are sheer fun, radiating an air of mischief. In each, geometric concepts are at the core. Even Euclid would have approved! "Geometry has always been considered as the first step while drawing or sketching. The collection can be worn with ethnic and western dresses and is acceptable universally. The unique feature lies down the fact that these designs are eternal and never goes out of fashion," says Rajeev Arora of Amrapali. The latest buzz in the fashion circuit is the emergence of two-toned jewellery. Designers in Europe, Turkey and Italy are all following this trend and I am proud to inform that Amrapali was the first to start this trend in Indian two years back, he added. On asking about future plans he said, "we are all set to participate in the JA Show in New York, going to be held from 26-29 July with our new collection. We will also be showcasing our collections at a jewellery trade event called International Jewellery London in September.

Indian Eye Makeup

2009-07-25T03:56:00.000-07:00

The changing trend of movie promotion suggests different innovative ways and gaming is one of them. This is the second time (Kambakkht Ishq being the first one) Hungama digital media has launched a website based on game encapsulating the essence of the movie, Luck. The stars of the film Imran Khan and Shruti Hassan who actually don’t believe in luck at all were present to promote 'Luck' on 22nd of July at JW Marriot, Mumbai. Both looked too excited and little nervous about the release of the movie. Let's know what Imran has to say about it I am little nervous and really excited about the movie, (we can understand Imran!) my character in the movie is all about a very simple guy living a local life and not very happy with himself. He is drowned in debt and to call them off he can go to any extent. Now since he is desperate he tries his Luck in everything including gambling also to know the rest please watch the movie. How did it feel working with Sanjay Dutt? When I worked with him in Kidnap, I was actually very nervous. I couldn't get rid of this haunting thought that he is a big star who has been there in the industry for almost 20-25 years so I was nervous. He is very protective and like a brother so it was easier working with him for the second time.

How much you are into gaming and how much this idea of gaming is going to work for your movie? Quickly answered….I love gaming. As far as this idea is concerned I hope it works well since everyone has a digital media and people like gaming. Especially when it’s coming with the influence of a movie and their characters I am sure, they get a good experience. These days online interaction is a very healthy interaction so how much do you believe in blogging and what is your reaction to the feedbacks? I do blog; also write weekly columns for newspapers whenever get time. It feels very nice when people email me or comment on my blogs. As far as criticism is concerned I always measure it and I see some merit in that before reacting. For details information you can click here Models Photos and get.

Ask him about his fashion and style statements and the answer comes I don't really care about fashion and trends also are not very experimental with my looks. Ahmm exactly opposite to your uncle Aamir, at least for hair styling. Brands or designers are something which fascinates me. I go shopping and pick up whatever I like. Your fitness mantra My look changes in every movie. To achieve the fit look for this movie I worked out a lot also people normally consume protein diet but I was on protein and carbs since my body has the tendency to loose weight if I eat less. Is it true that you and Katrina are working together for a movie? So far there is no truth in this matter; Katrina and I still have to figure it out. The movies you have done so far, which character you relate yourself to the most…? ‘Jaane Tu’ was his quickest answer. I did stunts in this movie and I don’t think I want to do such things in future (Chuckles!). (Very true, doesn’t suit your cute look also.) Future plans. Presently, I am working on a movie for Karan Johar. (That’s it? Probably doesn’t want to reveal more about his plans.)

The guy was clueless about his choice of scripts when asked, ultimately he revealed the criteria of choosing a script, he says "If i see some entertainment in the script I go for it." This is Shruti's first movie and stylekandy.com caught her to know about her excitement and experience. Sources suggest that you have carried accessories weighing 10kgs in one of the songs your take. Binal Shah styled me for the movie and I am very happy with her work. Yes, it's true I had to wear chains and accessories. Ultimately which became very heavy, almost 10kgs but it was fun shooting that song. The actress loves black for her own style statement. (Because you can spill anything and it doesn't show, just kidding!) What was your father's reaction about the movie and stunts? There was a yes from his side, also he supported me a lot to learn about the stunts I have done in the movie for which I had to go under training. The actress loves music and like video games as well. Just to let you know she likes herself to be called as a rock star before anything. Beauty and fitness mantra Exercise and clean your face concluded smilingly.

Beauty Makeup Skin Care

2009-07-23T03:26:00.001-07:00

Face is the most essential part of the body and radiant face is the first step to look great. We love to look our best at any season and occasion but the environmental change restricts us from flaunting our flawless skin. Changes in temperature and other weather conditions may call for adjustments in your skin care. Let's check out some face care tips which we can adopt to fight against the harms caused to it because of climatic change. SUMMER CARE One of the most horrifying problems faced by our skin in summers is sun burn. To fight against this issue, one should always apply broad spectrum sunscreen with SPF formulation that will protect both UVA and UVB rays. Reapply once every 2 hours. "Too much of exposure to sun leads to pigmentation of the skin and as a result the tanning effect start taking place, so one should always go for SPF formulated sun screen lotions. Don't forget your hair line or ears which are often neglected," stated Naina Balsavar, the beauty expert. Pigmentation is also caused due to over exposure of sunlight. Premature aging, wrinkles, sagging are some of the reasons which one should take extra care during summer. "Acne and blemishes are caused by various factors like hormornal imbalances, bacterial infections and pollutions and not really high humidity in fact clean moisture is good for the skin," said stylist Clint Fernandes. Blossom Kochhar highlighted, "In India, we face two types of summers – hot and dry and hot and humid. During dry season, the skin tends to become dry as a result one should opt for cream based face cleansers. And the emergence of humid temperature results in open pores and oily skin resulting in rashes, boils and pimples." Have at least 12 glasses of water a day to avoid dehydration and loss of moisture from the skin. "It keeps your skin hyderated and also helps in cleansing your bowels so as to be free from any kind of acne or boils which are caused due to such reasons," Naina added. Eat lots of juicy fruits or have juices.

Avoid oily and fried food as much as possible. The best solution to get rid of all the skin problems is to keep the face clean. Always follow the three step process – cleaning, toning and moisturizing. Clint added, "One should wash the face regularly with a good ph balanced face wash and then use a toner after followed with an oil free moisturizer. Do this at least 3 times during the day also keep oil absorbing tissues handy." And the skin healing procedure is definitely incomplete without exfoliation. WINTER CARE Winter season can be extremely stressful for our skin due to strong chilly winds and cold temperatures outside and drying-low humidity inside. The cold temperatures result in poor blood circulation of the facial skin. As a result your skin does not get enough nutrients and oxygen and all the healthy, regenerative processes in your skin slow down. Henceforth, skin looses its glow and becomes dull. Clint also added, "Use a slightly heavy moisturizer in colder climate after your face wash and toner. Avoid washing your face too often during the day as it will dry out your skin during winter time." "In winters, the dry cold winds attack the skin and causes dry red patches and wrinkles. Always use oil based creams and moisturizers as skin loses moisture more quickly than it replenish it. The extra-rich emollients in moisturizers help seal in the water below the skin surface and act as a barrier against external conditions," added Blossom. Protect the delicate areas near eyes from winter chill by wearing those trendy and chic sunglasses. Apply a good eye cream at day and night keeps wrinkles at a bay. Naina informed, "To stay away from dried and flaked lips, petroleum jelly based lip balms and lip therapies are the best solution. Butter and ghee are very effective in curing chapped lips and renders an extra softness." A proper nutritious intake helps in rejuvenating the skin from within. Be it is any season water plays an important role in keeping your skin alive. For more information you can click Fashion Week Coverage and get details.

Runway Reviews

2009-07-22T04:04:00.000-07:00

The latest offering from the house of Versace is the Vanitas Collection which is a deadly combination of elegant design and sinuous graphics. The collection comprising of women's ready to wear clothing, accessories, bijoux, embellishments and eyewear is embossed with the historic and distinctive Versace logo. This assortment of iconic items pays tribute to the evolutionary development of the Maison's olden times, tradition, and the DNA of this unique symbol. The Vanitas 'bow' is an original ornamental motif created by Gianni Versace and this pays homage to creativity, geometric perfection and decor.

The ready-to-wear women's wear range under the Versace Vanitas Fall-Winter 2010 collection showcases interplay of embellishments, surface decoration and graphic design. The ensemble include tops, dresses, trousers and coats in plethora of colours like fuchsia, cobalt blue, violet, metallics, beige, black, charcoal grey and strong green.

Inspired by contemporary minimalism, the eyewear collection features a selection of sunglasses in wraparound, oversized shapes, and prescription eyewear. The sophisticated vintage-inspired 60s style frames are presented in a colour spectrum of warm pastels, classic strong black, white, red, tortoise shell and claret tones, and in delicate shades of violet and champagne. Claiming a chic and feminine look, the prescription eyewear features the sinuous bow design in coloured enamel.

In order to give you that perfect stunning look, the brand has a spectacular line of accessories spanning from decorative silk scarves, bijoux, embellishments, bags, shoes and belts. Crafted in pure nappa leather and luxurious patent leather, the striking Vanitas handbags and clutches feature the Vanitas bow as a decorative closure element. When it comes to adorning your feet, Versace offers you the best options. The collection ranges from satin high heel evening sandals, leather nappa high heel day pumps, and peep toe patent high leather pumps, to flat ballerina style pumps. For all the gorgeous women, who love to beautify themselves with the precious and semi-precious stones will not be able to resist themselves because this is the bijoux line by Versace which comprise stylish rings, bracelets and necklaces, all polished in shades of yellow gold, silver and bronze coloured metals. Leena also ended a long going debate whether weight training is after all a healthy way to exercise. "It is only by calculated and continuous weight training that a person can increase his bone marrow. All other forms of working out are either related to overall health or result in increasing suppleness and stamina. This is a scientifically proven fact." More information you can click fashion designers and get details.

Candice seemed in a light mood. "It's nice to know your inside on and off. And I have scored an optimum figure, so I am very happy." Poor nutrition, lack of exercising, indulgence in smoking, no exposure to natural sun light; are some of the causes that lead to weak bones. No wonder then, there hung a skeleton with a cigarette in the mouth, suggestive of the hazards of smoking. Leena also asserted that for synthesis of Vitamin D, one can absorb sun light at anytime of the day, but as the day progresses the rays may be harmful for skin. "Hence mornings are recommended. Evenings generally are laden with pollution" she signs off.

Beauty Tips Celebrity Fashion Police

2009-07-21T05:19:00.000-07:00

One of the leading fashion brands, MANGO, announced Scarlett Johansson as the new face for their Autumn-Winter 09 campaigns. The event officially occurred on 13th of July in the Hotel AC Santo Mauro in Madrid, Spain. The gorgeous actress fits in perfect for the image of an extraordinary personality, embodying the ideal of the urban daring woman that Mango targets. Johansson is 'invariably delighted' to be part of it, confirmed media sources. Presenting the perfect persona of stylish talented and sensual women, Scarlett is well known for her versatility in the works she has done. "Scarlett is an extraordinary personality, fun, young. She's Mango's ideal urban woman, independent and cosmopolitan" quoted the brand's spokesperson in Spain.

Scarlett, 24, is taking over from Penelope Cruz, who had a four-season run with the Barcelona-based clothing company. Fittingly enough, both actresses starred in Woody Allen's flick Vicky Christina Barcelona! Scarlett posed in new Mango designs during the photo shoot by the renowned photographer Mario Sorrenti at Los Angeles. The shoot happened under the style guidance of Damian Sanchez, Mango's Creative Director and Board Member with Hair and make-up by Bob Recine and Aaron de Mey. This season, Mango's new collection would be influenced by the wild 80's. Little bold look with emphasized shoulders in suits, jackets and outerwear. Keeping the silhouettes narrow at the bottom half, skin-fit trousers, leggings and pencil skirts are the key styles presented by Mango for the coming season. More information you can click Fashion Designers and get more details.

Artificial leathers and woolen fabrics embellished with rhinestones and zips, sequins, sparkling studs add to the glam factor while providing warmth as well. Animal prints provide movement in the designs. Black and grey are the key colours in the palette, with a tinge of cobalt blue and maroon making the collection one of the best examples of functional luxury with sensual designs. She is one name that has run synonymous with fitness for over two decades now. Recently, Mumbai saw ace fitness guru Leena Mogre jolt people back to reality.

well at least figuratively speaking! At Leena Mogre's Fitness, the eponymous gym, she conducted a session for Bone Density Test which saw models Candice Pinto, Diandra Soares and television actors Makrand Deshpande, Prachi Desai and the likes volunteer. "We have a member who is an orthopedic surgeon", says Leena, "his name is Dr. Rakesh Nair. He is the one who organised this seminar." She goes on to explain that it is a painless, two min procedure carried out by a specialist who knows how to operate a bone density meter. "Bones form your endoskeleton and lay the foundation to your body, but we tend to take them for granted. A nutritious and healthy living is extremely crucial to maintain high bone density levels."

Fashion Shows, Celebrity Style For Women

2009-07-20T04:51:00.000-07:00

This season the trend is more about flaunting some mannish things from 'his' wardrobe by the cosmopolitan women. First it was Katie Holmes, who marked a trend in denims by wearing the Boyfriend jeans and now it's the turn of the accessory brand, Fossil to come out with its new range of Boyfriend watches that will enhance the casual look of all you trendy girls. Mr Vasant Nangia, Country Manager, Fossil said, "While flirty, feminine style has been eternally around, currently it's the 'boyfriend' look in news. Fossil's new collection is inspired by this trend and showcases a 70's synthesis of natural texture, vintage colour, and pieced patchworks, designed to be mixed, matched, and styled with the existing women's wardrobe. This big, oversized series of watches is a classic men's style that has been specially redesigned for women with bold features and multi functionality." Inspired by the Bohemian movement, American culture and keeping in mind the men’s fashion this season, the collection will surely allure girls to come out of the coop of felinity and go out for the casual and fussy image makeover.

"We at Fossil have crafted this collection with high quality materials like glazed leathers that develops a rich patina over time, antiqued brass hardware and lush menswear fabrics. Signifying a lifestyle of freedom and authentic expression, these large dial timepieces integrate both the past and the present. Its authentic vintage made modern look, gives a chance to the girls to wear their boys on their wrist!" he ended. So girls, you can enhance your wrists with these latest over-sized watches by paying a price that falls between Rs 6,495-8,795 and will be available at all lifestyle stores. Exuding sophistication with elegant interiors, Terroir has found their new destination in the form of Galaxy Hotel where Mr. Vivek Sharma (GM, Galaxy Hotel) and Magandeep Singh Sommelier) hosted the party to mark the remarkable grand launch of the stylish urban wine bar on 16th July. The party began with welcome cocktails followed by a sit down dinner. Terroir features a diverse selection of steaks and grills complimented by a well paired wine menu which was enjoyed thoroughly by the guests present.

They all were busy experiencing the warmth of this urban lounge with its convivial setting and the hearty flavours of its gourmet meals. Seen at the launch were the Capital’s crème de la crème and the glitterati- Manju and Bobby Grover, Purnima and Sarabjit Dhawan, Vani Tripathi, Nitin Bal Chauhan, Neelam Pratap Rudy, Sumeet Nair and Geetanjali Kashyap, Bhaich and Patel, Gunjan and Jatin Kocchar, Nikhil and Vidushi Mehra, Rahul Jain, Ashwin and Anki Khurana, Mihoko Tamamura from United Nations and many more. For more information you can visit fashion shows and get more details.

Fashion Designers Models Photos

2009-07-20T04:42:00.000-07:00

Manchester United Food and Beverage (Asia) Pvt Ltd and Billionaire Sports Pvt Ltd proudly announced the launch of India’s first ever Manchester United Restaurant and Bar in the country on July 14th at the Intercontinental, Marine Drive. Key design features of the outlets include the Wall of Fame, the Skybox, the Dugout area and giant projector screens to screen ‘live’ telecast of soccer games and other major sporting events. There is also the popular Managers Bench, a replica of the area where coach and players meet at the playing field and a lively island bar with video walls showing live telecasts of all major sports events. For more information you can visit fashion shows and get more details.

The perfect setting to enjoy a great game with friends Sachin Kohli and Jatin Suri of Billionaire Sports Pvt Ltd are responsible for bringing the esteemed Manchester United Cafe/Restaurant and Bar to the country. The flagship outlet, Manchester United Restaurant and Bar will be at Nirmal Lifestyle Mall and is slated to open up by the end of this year. On the announcement of the launch of Manchester United Restaurant and Bar, Andy Yun, Chief Executive Officer of MUFB Asia said, "India is one of the few markets in the world which offers enormous potential and we believe them to be immense for Manchester United Restaurant and Bar."
Sachin Kohli informed "We would also be bringing all the much awaited Manchester United merchandise for the first time to the country.” Suvrangsu Mukherjee from the subcontinent said “We are sure that these outlets will help bring the brand closer to consumers apart from offering world class cuisine and a stadium like atmosphere during the screening of matches." Manchester United Restaurant and Bar is a full service, casual all-day dining restaurants that feature predominantly western cuisine and local specialties to suit the taste buds of diners across the region. In addition, there is also strong emphasis on creative cocktails, live telecast of sports events, live entertainment from popular artistes and special themed parties. It is a place where likeminded individuals gather over great drinks and food, to share a laugh.

Adding to it, Ekta excitedly said, "Yes, the gowns are very stylish and trendy. It very much goes with my personality. I’m a very vintage person and the gown which I’ve finalized has some old day charm to it. The dress is very flowy and has a lot of drama to it. The colours are fabulous. Though I would not like to reveal the colour which I’ve chosen for the finale gown, I want people to check out themselves. I’m very superstitious about all this." (Ohhoo alas, the designers have already revealed the colour of the gown but we’ll respect Ekta’s superstition). The gowns and dresses have been dyed in a colour palette which includes royal blue, pale blue, shining off white, versatile black and pinkish red. Nainika said, "The gowns are highlighting a mermaid cut and are crafted with a mix of lycra and georgette." They started with a princess cut gown, the designers then finalized the mermaid cut gowns with tube a neck and flared shoulders as they feel it will enhance her figure the best and will also offer a feminine and elegant look.

Indian Fashion Designers

2009-07-18T05:31:00.000-07:00

Diamonds are girl’s best friend but what if it is not within your
budget? No worries, Gordon Max has the solution to it. Satisfying the
needs of today’s women by providing them with affordable elegance and
everlasting brilliance, the brand recently opened its new store at the
Great India Place in Noida providing exceptionally brilliant stimulants
that have the same appeal as the highest grade, naturally formed
diamonds. “Gordon Max premium quality stimulants are hand cut and hand
polished into the proportion of ‘hearts and arrows’, giving a visual
effect seen in round shaped diamonds ensuring maximum brilliance and
fire and providing a wide selection of old mine cuts to modern and
contemporary ones” said Ms. Saraswathi Arjun an, Managing Director,
Zuna International Ltd (master franchise of Gordon max India and
subcontinent). The store provides in house certification for cut, size
and colour. A hologram certifying every single Gordon Max diamond
stimulant is hand cut, hand polished by master diamond cutters. “India
is well known for its diamond jewellery. However, there is lack of
choices and quality when it comes to these manmade stones. Although no
one has introduced premium quality stimulants in a big way in India
yet, we are confident that consumers would appreciate that now they
have a choice of wearing diamonds at a very affordable price tag
without compromising on the quality or the eye”, she shared. From
pristine colour less to fancy vivid colours, the store will provide you
exquisite and limited European designs. If you want to get more
information you visit Models Photos and get details.

The pieces can be found in various sizes from 0.25ct up to 12ct, in
many cuts such as round brilliant in hearts and arrows proportions,
princess, emerald, heart and many others. But what attracts us the most
is the excellent quality versus price ratio which is 90% of the natural
diamonds characteristics with just 4% of the cost. Here comes the price
range, the lowest is Rs 6100 for 0.34 carat and it goes to Rs 53,700
for 8 carat. Earlier it was in the habit of all those women to keep
their natural diamonds safely locked away in security deposits due to
the high value and huge responsibility that comes with wearing one. But
with Gordon Max around the corner, every lady can enjoy wearing her
diamonds every day, without losing her peace of mind. We promised to
keep you posted on the efforts Miss Universe aspirant Ekta Chaudhary
and the best designers of the country are putting in to bring back the
crown. here we are with one more update. Gauri and Nainika who is
designing her Grand Finale gown which she will be flaunting at the Miss
Universe 2009 pageant in August held a fitting session recently at
their well equipped design studio at Saket in the capital. “Ekta is
very different from others,” Nainika opines, “While others are eager on
portraying a sexy image for the beauty pageants with cleavage revealing
and back displaying gowns, it was very sensible of Ekta to go for a
classic look.”

Fashion Designers Models Photos

2009-07-18T05:30:00.000-07:00

Manchester United Food and Beverage (Asia) Pvt Ltd and Billionaire Sports Pvt Ltd proudly announced the launch of India’s first ever Manchester United Restaurant and Bar in the country on July 14th at the Intercontinental, Marine Drive. Key design features of the outlets include the Wall of Fame, the Skybox, the Dugout area and giant projector screens to screen 'live' telecast of soccer games and other major sporting events. There is also the popular Managers Bench, a replica of the area where coach and players meet at the playing field and a lively island bar with video walls showing live telecasts of all major sports events. The perfect setting to enjoy a great game with friends Sachin Kohli and Jatin Suri of Billionaire Sports Pvt Ltd are responsible for bringing the esteemed Manchester United Cafe/Restaurant and Bar to the country. The flagship outlet, Manchester United Restaurant and Bar will be at Nirmal Lifestyle Mall and is slated to open up by the end of this year. On the announcement of the launch of Manchester United Restaurant and Bar, Andy Yun, Chief Executive Officer of MUFB Asia said, "India is one of the few markets in the world which offers enormous potential and we believe them to be immense for Manchester United Restaurant and Bar."

Sachin Kohli informed "We would also be bringing all the much awaited Manchester United merchandise for the first time to the country." Suvrangsu Mukherjee from the subcontinent said "We are sure that these outlets will help bring the brand closer to consumers apart from offering world class cuisine and a stadium like atmosphere during the screening of matches." Manchester United Restaurant and Bar is a full service, casual all-day dining restaurants that feature predominantly western cuisine and local specialties to suit the taste buds of diners across the region. In addition, there is also strong emphasis on creative cocktails, live telecast of sports events, live entertainment from popular artistes and special themed parties. It is a place where likeminded individuals gather over great drinks and food, to share a laugh. Adding to it, Ekta excitedly said, "Yes, the gowns are very stylish and trendy. It very much goes with my personality. I am a very vintage person and the gown which I have finalized has some old day charm to it. The dress is very flowy and has a lot of drama to it. The colours are fabulous. Though I would not like to reveal the colour which I have chosen for the finale gown, I want people to check out themselves. I am very superstitious about all this." (Ohhoo alas, the designers have already revealed the colour of the gown but we’ll respect Ekta's superstition). The gowns and dresses have been dyed in a colour palette which includes royal blue, pale blue, shining off white, versatile black and pinkish red. For more information you can click Models Photos and get details.

Nainika said, "The gowns are highlighting a mermaid cut and are crafted with a mix of lycra and georgette." They started with a princess cut gown, the designers then finalized the mermaid cut gowns with tube a neck and flared shoulders as they feel it will enhance her figure the best and will also offer a feminine and elegant look.

Tourist Journey Service Information

2009-07-17T05:07:00.000-07:00

Most tourists start their journey in Paris, but there is definitely
much more and now that I have discovered the Languedoc. Last month I
had the opportunity to visit one of the most exciting parts of France
known as the Languedoc-Roussillon. The region is an undiscovered gem
filled with breathtaking coastline, some of France’s best cuisine, rich
medieval history and amazing architecture like chateaux (castles) and
cathedrals. Bordering Provence, the Languedoc Roussillon is just as
charming and beautiful, also touches the Mediterranean, but is less
tourist-ridden and less expensive. France’s most upcoming wines are
from this region. It is also a far cry from the Provence or the Cote
d’Azur vacation spots many tourists flock to. For me what made it
special was the fact that it was bordering the Mediterranean Sea to the
east and the Pyrenees Mountains to the south. Today, access has been
greatly facilitated by the opening of the Millau Viaduct, which has
become the centre point of a giant human merry-go-round linking the
Clermont plain to the Mediterranean via the A75. Situated just three
hours from Paris by TGV (high speed train), with services to
Montpellier International Airport, the region boasts a wealth of
different landscapes, traditions and talents waiting to be discovered.

With its colour full local markets, its 300 days a year of sunshine
warming its rich coastline, 220 Km of fine sandy beaches, its charming
villages and welcoming towns- all make the visitors experience a
harmonious combination architectural sites and life in a regional
prefecture and cultural capital of the south. You’ll know after this
trip what makes south of France so unique, which includes its
small-scale wine growers, its cuisine inspired by southern France
traditions, its popular culture, village festivals and local
traditions. For more information you click Fashion Designers
and get details. It is the world’s largest wine-producing region.
Languedoc’s wine production exceeds that of Bordeaux, of Australia, and
that of South Africa and Chile combined. Languedoc-Roussillon’s wine
represents a third of the volume of all French output. I even spent a
day out with a local wine producer. He took us out to his vineyards to
show us the wines, soil and newly formed grapes soon ready for harvest
coming September. Of course the days out in the wine country could not
have been complete without a private tasting with a selection of white,
rosé and reds from his vineyard. A visit to the Languedoc would not be
complete without a stop at the famous town of Carcassonne known for its
stunning medieval city and delicious regional specialty, Cassoulet. Bon
Voyage.

Fashion Tips

2009-07-16T04:45:00.000-07:00

Tanishq recently launched their exclusive range of gold collection called ‘Glam Gold in association with Anglo Gold Ashanti and World Gold Council in the capital on Friday with model Amanpreet Wahi presenting a brand new face of the mildly lustrous jewellery. "We are pleased to be associated with Tanishq for the launch of Glam Gold collection which is crafted in 22 k gold and aimed at consumers with different taste. With the design aesthetics of every piece, we have made an effort to give gold terms like fashionable, classic and timeless. Through this launch, we have promoted gold’s glamour quotient that enhances ones persona besides being a secured source of investment" said Mr. Shivram, V.P, World Gold Council. The collection comprises an awesome combination of Cuttack wirework with Jaipuri enamel and kundan. In simple yet contemporary and geometric styles, the jewellery pieces are an audacious fusion of different looks and techniques. With this eclectic range of earrings, necklaces, broaches, waist belts, back ornaments, arm bands and shoulder ornaments- this collection is surely going to be the talk of the town.

At Tanishq we always aim at giving innovative and latest designs to our customers. Through this collection, we are promoting gold as a fashion accessory which can be equally glamorous like diamond and precious stone jewellery" said Mr. Sandeep Kulhalli, V.P, Tanishq. When we asked Amanpreet about these beautiful pieces, she said “These pieces will provide us with jewellery that meets traditional and contemporary aspirations and desires. India is a very traditional market and this collection will give both western and fusion looks." This range of exclusive contemporary jewellery which speaks of opulence and class will cater the beautiful ladies in between the age group of 25 to 35 years. The collection is available at all Tanishq retail outlets across the country in a price range of Rs 35000 to Rs. 1.6 lakhs. For more information you can click Fashion Tips and get details.

Skin Care, Beauty Makeup Tips For Women

2009-07-15T05:07:00.000-07:00

Lippi Lal the renowned make-up artist for Bourjo is Paris has more than 14 years of experience in luxury brands business, specializing in skincare and makeup. She has worked with some of the leading brands creating magical looks for bride, models and beautiful women across India. The talented lady was recently in the capital to launch the spring summer trend of Bourjo is Paris and we took no time in catching her to give us tips to follow this season and seek solutions to some beauty related queries. Life in the metros has become so fast especially in the corporate world. Looking good has become a necessity? Your take on that. So true! Looking good is not only important for your own sake but because also the market and profession demands it. Most of the working ladies do not get that quality time to spend on their face so for them my only suggestion is to be natural with a little bit of eye-shadow which can work wonders on your face. Suvijmon-regard, eye shadows by Bourjo is Paris is one among the best in the market and believe me, it works. Is it correct that too much make - up is not good for the skin.

Too much make up means do not use poor quality make up. Go for the brand which never creates any side effect on your face, after all your body is the best gift given by god, especially your face so protect it in the best way possible. One golden rule to great healthy skin. For me the only factor that can result into a glowing skin is to be happy, eat a health diet with fresh products and of course drink lots of water. One more thing that can affect your skin in a positive way is to take bed latest by 10 o’ clock. I know it's impossible in such a workaholic scenario but include it in a daily routine and see the outcome. What is make-up - an art to hide flaws OR enhance your beauty.

Both! You are born beautiful. Make up just helps in enhancing it. Every girl has some special factor in herself- like someone has a nice jaw line; some have beautiful eyes but the problem is that they are unaware of this beautiful aspect. Dust and Pollution one can not stop from going out. So how to avoid it from damaging your skin. Wear foundation and a good sunscreen with SPF 15 to 20, it acts as a glove on your face. if possible cover your body as much as you can before walking out because India is known for summer and direct sunrays can make your skin dull.

Beauty lies in the eyes of the beholder what is Beauty for you? For me beauty is close to nature. Be natural with your skin and your skin will love it. What all can women do to understand their skin and its need better. Listen to your intuition; do not choose a product because others are using it or publicizing it. Earlier women's were very particular about the brand; you can say that it takes one day for them to select one lipstick brand but now the scenario is totally opposite. Women's attitude towards make up has changed so the market. Consult professionals for the skin guidance. The trends this season with do is and do nots. One can go crazy with colours like luscious pinks and reds for the lips. The face for this season should be stark and natural.

For more information you can visit here Beauty Tips for women and get details. The do's are that face has to be cleaned with the right products. Try and avoid glossy and shiny make-up for the face. What I would recommend handy for this summer's would be make-up blotting paper. It helps in keeping the skin fresh and glowing all day long. I would advise not to use any products that give extra shine. Good water-proof mascara would be a good option as we do not want the mascara to run out. For the lips I would advise people who have chapped lips to not to apply too much of lipstick as it would capture attention and we don't want people to look at our flaws, do we.

Runway Photos, Fashion Designers

2009-07-14T03:13:00.000-07:00

Showing its concern towards the environment, or so to say, Nakshatra launched its new logo, green in colour apparently representing the vibrancy and freshness of nature. Katrina Kaif face of the brand, had the honours of unveiling the new logo at Taj Lands End in Mumbai on 11th of July. Katrina was happy to be a part of Nakshatra (as if she had a choice, he he) and said at the occasion, "I do my bit to save the environment because I think this can only be helped by little changes in our daily lives. Also, if I am associated with a brand then I actively participate in all activities related to it, from designing part to the ad campaigns."The wonderful afternoon witnessed a fashion show unveiling latest Nakshatra collection. Models sparkled the ramp wearing Wendell Rod ricks and Swapnil Shinde creations with stunning Nakshatra Jewellery pieces.

"The change in logo with its vibrant green is an extension to celebrate Nakshatra's relationship with consumers as we believe in the philosophy of giving the best to them. We have also decided to contribute some percentage of our sales to the social causes. The floral around the brand logo symbolizes luck and Katrina is the Goddess of luck"- Ms. Shardah Uniyal General Manager Geetanjali Group could not stop raving about the brand and the brand ambassador at the launch. You can visit in this Fashion Designers and get moer information.

Nakshatra has something for everyone- unique floral designs with multiple diamonds encircling a single large diamond signifying the constellation effect. Promising optimum purity, the brand gives its own guarantee certificate with special packaging. The collection comprises of the ranges like the 'Nakshatra collection','the Eternity Collection' and 'the Solitaire Collection'. Besides this, Nakshatra is planning to get into platinum and pearl ornaments including an extension of lifestyle ranges like eye wears and perfumes. The trend started with IIFA few years back by introducing green carpet and now even the most luxurious brands are supporting the cause in their own way which is an appreciable fact. While all fashion and lifestyle brands are getting associated with some or the other social cause, we as an individual also should do our own bits as much as we can.

Beauty Treatments From Yoga Exercise

2009-07-13T05:00:00.000-07:00

Youth is a time of life when one is looking for entertainment. As a youngster, you may not realize but each day you are creating the steps for your future. Someone said that youth is wasted in passion and wisdom comes too late. It is such a true statement as youth has the energy to change the world, but it cannot as it has no wisdom. And in old age one may have wisdom but there is no energy left in the body or mind. Most youngsters do not know themselves. And this is the biggest challenge for a youngster as this simple statement affects all parts of a person’s life – education, career, relationships, and marriage. Unless you know yourself, you can never find success in this world. This applies to people of all ages but as the youth have energy it is easy for them to transform. Man is a creature of habits and as he gets older, his habits get engraved into his mind and he becomes a slave of them.

For example, your father might want you to become a software engineer, but until you know yourself you will not be able to look into his eyes and convince him that you want to do something else. This is nothing but clarity of heart and mind which will come only when one does Yogic practices. I know the youth will take Yoga casually. This is the tragedy- One discovers Yoga when it is too late and thinks to him self- “I wish I had started Yoga when I was younger. If you want to more information you can click skin care makeup tips and get details. I would have been happier, healthier, fitter and more beautiful.” This is what most film stars say to me all the time! Just 20 min a day is enough to make a difference to your life. The as an as and pranayama taught in Yoga may look boring, but as you practice them you will see the following benefits.

1. Your eyes will be brighter. They will sparkle.

2. Your skin will glow.

3. Your body will slim down.

4. Your concentration and focus will go up.

5. You will need less sleep in a day and you will be fresh every morning.

6. Just a twenty minutes of studies a day will be good enough for you to absorb the same information that you take one hour to learn. How does all this happen? The answer is simple – Yoga makes your body healthy and also clears your mind. Making your body fit can be done in the gym but clarity of mind is something only Yoga can do. Yoga removes your stress and your tension. Once you have clarity of mind, everything falls into place. Your career. Your relationships. Your life.

Skin Care Makeup Tips

2009-07-11T05:16:00.000-07:00

Enticing and mysterious- words that describe Body Shop's new fragrance for the autumn season! This 'White musk Midnight Iris' collection which is a contemporary, opulent interpretation of the classic white musk features enchanting notes of irresistible orris, bergar not an water lily. "White Musk Iris is a classic White Musk sensuality special edition fragrance range created especially for the autumn-winter season. It is an enchanting velvety fragrance that is created to warm up cold days of every sensual woman in search of comfort" said Ms. Shriti Malhotra General Manager, Body shop.

It features naturally derived ingredients with a top note of bergar not and water lily creating an initial sensation of glowing fragrance. The scent then builds to a deeper velvety heart of muguet (lily of the valley), clary sage and orris which gives the feeling of soothing, downy softness. Finally it settles upon the sensuous base notes of musk, sandalwood and Tonka bean enhancing the expression of enveloping cocoon. This exquisite fragrance can be enjoyed across an exclusive range of four products. The white musk midnight iris eau de toilette, the chiffon sheer body mist, the velvet shimmer body lotion and the sumptuous silk shower gel. One thing to be taken care of is that if you want long lasting effect of these sensuous fragrances then apply all four products together in a layering regime as you cleanse, moisturize, spritz and spray. Fast Facts: White Musk Midnight Iris Eau de Toilette at Rs 745,White Musk Midnight Iris Chiffon Sheer Body Mist at Rs 895, White Musk Midnight Iris Velvet Shimmer Body Lotion at Rs 845, White Musk Midnight Iris Sumptuous Silk Shower Gel at Rs 475. Known for their discerning and enigmatic prints in contemporary saris, Satya Paul has always been a name synonymous with the 'unconventional'. The forte clearly seems to churning out vibrant prints to bring out the aesthetics and showing the world that India can produce clothing that is minus the rich handcrafted embroidery but equally coveted and perhaps even more globally viable and appealing. For pre-Fall, there is a new story. It's baptized as 'Maya'. Designer Puneet Nanda interprets 'the love for money' in a more wearable way and suggests it as the look of the season. Puneet Nanda for Satya Paul has been a successful association so far and with this one, Puneet hopes to touch new sales figures! "Maya is Kaleidoscopic Color! It is my interpretation of contemporary fashion courting glamour and fantasy in the form of colorful patterns on saris and garments", explained the young and vibrant designer. Puneet is primarily a self-taught artist whose understanding spans multiple genres; from art to music to design. For more information you can click Fashion Designers and get deatails.

Talking about the fabrics and techniques used, Puneet enlisted, "I take every theme as an unusual experiment and experience. Maya is just the perfect combination of appealing textures and design elements. The fabrics used are satin in burnout effect, premium georgettes and crepes, jacquard and like. We have also employed digital printing." An experimental flair, use of myriad colors and patterns make up Maya. Ornamental designs, layers, shadows and contrasting elements render Maya a bold graphic look. Puneet also suggests bold and innovative ways to drape the conventional sari in novel ways to bring about the design sense of pieces in Maya. "The sari must be draped in a manner that can reveal the best form of a woman. The style of the draping depends upon the occasion, as for weddings, it is usually traditional drapes as against a cocktail reception where one can experiment with interesting drapery."

Fashion Week

2009-07-11T03:25:00.000-07:00

Bangalore Fashion Week is running full steam ahead as planned with apparently 32 designers having confirmed participation. Now do not ask us the names because just as the rest of the world, we are as clueless about the names of the '32 minus 8' designers. Ask about the names of the remaining 24 designers, and no one seems to be willing to be giving in. The four-day extravaganza will apparently be a host to some of the country's top-notch designers, several upcoming designers, leading buyers, and some of the country's best known models.

We spoke to Gouri Kapur one of the board members of BFW, "We have gotten a lot of entries but have yet to shortlist the final designers who will be showcasing at the event. We will be concentrating on quality. We will also be giving a platform to young designers."The members on the BFW board who will be excising this quality control include Rahul Dev Shetty, Sheetal Sharma (last minute entry as the choreographer of the show), Sanchitta Ajjampur, Gouri Kapur, Mirza L Baig, Siddharth Mahajan and Feroze Khan.

Manovi raj Khosla, who is a participating member, has done a turnabout from his stand where he earlier thought that the idea of having BFW was 'non starter' in the first place! Now he changes sides and says, "Hey it's Bangalore so how can I not do it! I have confirmed to the organizers verbally about an hour ago (relatively speaking) but have not signed on the dotted line yet. I will be showcasing my own collection comprising of both menswear and womens wear. As of now I do not have any showstopper in mind. Commenting on the line-up of designers at Bangalore Fashion Week, Feroz Khan - Creative Director, Dream Merchants said, "Designers are the soul of any fashion event, and we are indeed glad to host some of the country's leading names." Apparently the ramp will have no stars as according to some board members, the stars take away the limelight from the designer. The star of every show will be the designer. For more information you can click Indian Fashion Week and get details.

The participating designers at BFW are also being promised exposure and access to a selection of Indian and international buyers from South Africa, Japan, Europe amongst other parts of the fashion world. Well, it's a sponsored event and 'talks still on for the main sponsor', even though there are exactly 12 days left for the gala event! Well, we sincerely wish them the very best, even though the need of yet another fashion week in India is yet to be justified! Oh yeah, by the way all eight participating designers have been invited to showcase and as such do not have to pay any fee. On the contrary, it's an all expense paid trip ahem platform for them. The eight confirmed names are.
1. Rocky
2. Manoviraj Khosla
3. Abdul Halder
4. Jatin Kochhar
5. Samant Chauhan
6. Abhi Rahul
7. Raj and Neetu Shroff
8. Jason and Anshu Arora Sen

Celebrity Fashion Parties

2009-07-10T04:44:00.000-07:00

Call it coincidence or call it planning, but the world will be witnessing LFW in two different countries from 18th to 22nd September 2009. As London Fashion Week will kick off in the U.K. Lakme Fashion Week will be staged in Mumbai during the same dates. But this piece is not about blowing the stark similarity out of proportion. Instead, in a recent development, The British Fashion Council (BFC) has announced U.S. based PR Company, 'People's Revolution' to promote London Fashion Week (LFW) and British designers in the USA. Well no big deal with that you would imagine. Now hear this- People’s Revolution was approached last season as well by the BFC. But weeks before the D-Day, the association was called off. The reason- Recession of course! An insider quoted, "we were going to hire People’s, but with the downturn of economy in the States, we thought it just didn’t make sense putting our money there. Now things are better and we are ready to consolidate."

However, this had riled the people at People's and they were apparently so miffed at the last minute back out that they had sworn not to take up LFW as an account. The media flashed reports which called the BFC’s behaviour as 'unethical' and 'unprofessional'. Well as they say- in media, no permanent friendships and no permanent enemies- People’s seem to have buried the hatchet and are all gung ho about notching up London Fashion Week as a client for promotion in the States. Caroline Rush joint chief executive of the British Fashion Council, commented, "The appointment of People's Revolution aims to increase awareness and exposure of British designers amongst US media and buyers with the goal of supporting the growth of designer businesses and increasing the attendance of these audiences at London Fashion Week."

People's Revolution is a full-service brand strategy, marketing and public relations firm with offices in New York, Los Angeles and Paris. "We celebrate and embrace authenticity and communication. London is a city that turns out originals with an attitude," said People's Revolution, founder and CEO, Kelly Cutrone. Incidentally, as Lakme Fashion Week celebrated a whole one decade of existence this year, London Fashion Week will be celebrating its silver jubilee too at its new cultural home, Somerset House. The move to a more centrally located and iconic venue is part of the council's 25 year celebration plan. And we believe the move to go from London to New York for publicity should also be a part of the same plan. If you want more information you can click at here Indian Fashion Shows and you find details.

Indian Fashion Shows

2009-07-10T04:41:00.000-07:00

"The new collection of mine epitomizes love and beauty. It is very royal and elegant," jewellery designer Paayal Gupta expressed. Jahanara – the new collection unveiled by Paayal enhances the aura of a woman by adding appeal and sophisticated charm. With the fusion of contemporary look and Indian story behind each piece, this Bridal collection tells the love tale of Mogul Emperor Shah Jahan and his beloved wife Mumtaj Mahal. "The word 'Jahanara' means Queen of the World and with this collection, I want every woman to feel special and important like a queen,” she added. One of the high points is the usage of interchangeable stones. Every piece is dynamic and versatile with a strong and unique individual character." "I have used a lot of emeralds, rubies, sapphires and pearls and have handpicked them from various places. The pearls used in the collection are the best rounded pearls from South Asian Seas. Likewise, I have get the lustrous emeralds imported from Colombia and Zambia." The collection comprises necklaces, earrings and bracelets in diamonds and polkas with precious stones like emeralds, rubies and pearls. Talking about the polka, the designer said, "Since polka is something which is worn with a graceful sari, I have given it a contemporary look by hanging it with a tassel, which one can flaunt with an evening wear also. This collection is something that a mother and daughter can share throughout their life." Accentuating on the wearability factor, Paayal has crafted pendants that can be worn both sides and the bracelets can be converted into chokers of a single piece. "My main aim was to offer luxury with value for money." The price range starts from Rs 30,000 and goes up to a lakh, depending on the value and size of the gemstones.

Presented in a black lacquered case, with sleek design, perfect delicately rounded angles and structured with metals Chanel’s latest offering – the Rouge Allure – is a sensual lipstick dressed in gold. This ultra feminine beauty product triggers an expression of seduction with its one click of application. Formulated with a lacquered cream effect that reveals a satiny luminous finish, Rouge Allure reveals intense and maximum colour with its very first stroke. Adding intense volume to your lips, the line of lipsticks is available in a colour palette that spans from the tender most to the most sensual and from the most natural to the most sophisticated shades.

The eight shades are inspired by the engravings on China lacquer and comprise flamboyant red, precious coral, shimmering brown and powdery pink. Peter Philip Global Creative Make-up director of Chanel said, "We have augmented this range by keeping in mind the long lasting effect. This very range offers a perfect finish with its excellent hold of up to eight hours." With the promise of keeping your lips soft and smooth for long hours, the lipsticks are enhanced by the addition of Jajoba Oil which offers exceptional comfort upon application. To achieve the perfectly defined lips one can touch upon the lip contours with Le Crayon Levres in a shade that closely matches to that of your lipstick. If you want more information you can click at here Indian Fashion Shows and you find details.

Olive Celebrate Anniversary Mahalaxmi Race Course

2009-07-08T04:42:00.000-07:00

After two days of downpour in the city, the sky was again bright and Olive celebrated its first anniversary at the Mahalaxmi Race course. Guests enjoyed this Sunday brunch with high spirits. Mostly people dressed in various shades and tints of yellows, it seemed they just wanted to come out of the dull mood of pouring Mumbai. Owner A D Singh, "It’s a delightful feeling to celebrate the success. Spa Treatments Tips, the Bandra one being nine years and here at Mahalaxmi we have completed one year. We hope to keep up the buzz in future and look forward to your support as always. “The soiree kicked off at about 2pm with a host of regulars as well as a few surprise guests. Anil Dharkar was the first to walk in and he stayed for a fair bit. The self-proclaimed Party Animal Kishin Mulchandani made his presence felt with his latest gossips. We also spotted Tara Sharma, Shenaaz Tresurywala, Nonita Kalra, Rajiv Samant and Rahul da Cunhainteracting with other guests. Tina Tahiliani Parikhbreezed in and out quickly, in a matter of few minutes. Spa Treatments Tips Amrita Arora made her appearance with her husband Shakeel and mother. Needless to say Amrita looked quite stunning in bright red, long Hawaiian dress.

The model brigade sparkled the afternoon. Amrit Maghera appeared in ochre coloured long satin dress, apparently longer than her height also which kept her one hand busy holding it while walking. Nethra with beau Pratap Raju, Lisa Haydon and a few Brazilian butterflies added style and fun to the afternoon with their little dresses and high heels. Arti and Kailash Surendra nath, Gautam and Pratima Bhatia, Daniel Shah and I vana Perovic, Jaideep and Seema Mehrotra, Karan Bhojwani, Aditya and Divya Hitkari, Sameer and Palak Sheth, Nari and Kadambari, Nikhil and Natasha Chib, Amitabh and Akanksha Nanda with their son kept the place buzzing. Nevertheless Rajesh Kohliand Anil Choprawere missing their better halves but had a great time socializing with friends. Pravina and Jamal Mecklai were the first to hit the dance floor which was specially set up for the occasion. Dressed up in florals they seemed enjoying the music the most and lost in themselves. Ashish Raheja was in his own world, one of the Brazilian models was his flavour of the day– Salsa was it, or possibly Cha Cha Cha, not too sure he could make out the difference.

Spring Summer Designers Showcased Trends

2009-07-08T04:18:00.000-07:00

So the “rag trade” has been revolutionized without being asked, without knowing. It has come totally by surprise. I can hardly imagine a trade more concerned than ours. The big difference is that before we maybe did not dare even manifest, afraid of judgement even if we had an opinion, any opinion now it’s different, the time is right to become assertive. I mean expression-wise. It’s hardly a topic elsewhere. In fact the gay barometer usually speaks for culture and sophistication and disposable income in any international urban context. So are we heading for that? Arguably yes. It means the times are patting Fashion on the shoulder and not only saying “unite” a week ago (One Fashion Week, finally) but also “express yourself” now that the general refuge of love seems to be accepted, which was what many were hoping for. Of course some fundamentalists did put moral barriers to this, but it already is a general norm in the world, preceded by the anti baby pill in the early sixties, the hippies and the sexual revolution of free love a bit later and AIDS much later that much for the fundamentalists who may consider the legalisation of homosexuality as a moral catastrophe. I can not remember more hurdles crossed in such a short time in a long time, bringing in a new outlook to all in Fashion and Beauty, Decoration and Interiors, Expression of the Times the list is long and the freedom of choice, not only for the designers but also for the consumers it brings with it is going to change the country and its cultural expression. Celebrity Fashion Police i think the ‘Indian Wave’ is just about starting now. So maybe we will finally understand that the race is about creativity leading to business, a race in which each and everyone is competing with themselves and what they thought was the norm. we shall see what happens with a changed norm. Celebrity Fashion Police It’s a boutique where you will get the best from the world of Alberta Ferretti, Stella McCartney, Moschino, Marc Jacobs, DVF, Jean-Paul Gaultier and Lanvin. Fashion botique Kitsch recently celebrated their Spring-Summer 2009 menswear collection with a party over single malts and hors’doeuvres hosted by Mr Diljeet Titus, Priya Sachdev and Charu Sachdev. ‘The gentleman’s club’ at Emporio Mall in the capital was hosted on July 4th. Kitsch has welcomed the new season with colour and style bringing alive the most wonderful wardrobe in town by incorporating the must haves this season. Get the look which would kill without killing the bank balance. Be it Marc Jacobs’s ‘casual and cool look’, Jean Paul Gaultier’s ‘hot and sexy look’, Moschino’s ‘fun and flirty look’ or Lanvin’s ‘confident and suave look’- these spring summer designers showcased trends which are here to stay.

The Lanvin happy bag will add delight to your life. Check out the chic textured ties, the funky loafers and the new improved 48 hour bag with a special compartment four shoes. Moschino dresses are perfectly suited for evening cocktails, straight after work. “The evening was for the stylish men who appreciate the luxuries of life in every sphere. We have accumulated the best from every sphere here to bring out that lavish feel. You can see malt appreciation from Whyte and Mackay, Dalmore and Jura by USL Spirits, exclusive cigars at the cigar lounge by Chingari and an introduction of luxury private jets by Bjets” said Charu. “I know the Sachdev family from very long. So when Priya and Charu invited me for this; there was no reason to say no- after all, it’s a gentleman’s party!” said Mr Diljeet Titus, who has been known for his long standing association with the vintage car boards. You would know it if you were there since party witnessed one of his red Mercedes vintage cars on display. Delhi’s most fashionable made their presence felt. Seen having a great evening was Ameeta Seth, Tanisha Mohan, AD Singh, Sujata Assomull, Jaydeep Sippy and many more.

Suits are the Most Acknowledged Classic Fashion Statements

2009-07-06T04:22:00.000-07:00

In them, men just can not go wrong. Whether you are going for any special occasion like party, ceremony or a business meeting, the most preferred attire for men is 'a suit'. Read on to know about the various styles of suits to cast that everlasting impression. There are three major styles of suit, named for the countries in which they originated, though it is now quite common to find all three styles in any country, as well as fusions of elements from one or more different styles. The first is the English style, typified by soft, unpadded shoulders, a long, hourglass body with a high waist, either double or single breasted, with two or three buttons and side vents. The second is the Italian, or sometimes Continental style, epitomized by a lightweight construction, squared, high shoulders, a short, close-fitting, single-breasted body, with two buttons and no vent. Rounding out the group is the America nor sack suit, a natural-shoulder suit with a straight and somewhat roomier body, three-buttons and a back vent.

Double Breasted Suits comprised of two sets of buttons, Single Breasted ones hold the basic style of formal suits included of two or three buttons in a straight line. A single-breasted suit has the advantage of making you look slimmer in appearance as well. Blazers, available in a plethora of colours, styles and patterns provide that rich look and a soft touch. Suits with little embroidery are perfect for Indian weddings. Classic Dinner Jackets with deep cut chests and broad lapels are another hot favourite. Whites are the blacks of today. Even with suits be fearless and wear bright colours as they are in this season. Collarless Brown suits, a colour avoided by many men, can be easily matched with earth tones from yellow to gold to tan colours.

Depending on the tone of your brown, combinations with maroon, cream, or even navy blue can be achieved. Summer's hottest styles bring together lightweight fabrics, soft textures and sharp details with most popular colour choices- white, light brown, bright orange, green and ivory. Subsequently, silk and lightweight cotton, linen and the occasional lightweight cashmere pieces are also well-liked choices amongst the fabrics for the season.

For summer fashion designers line in suits, go for aristocratic brands like Versace, Armani for the elegant pieces, whereas DKNY is well known for its sleek and modern sophistication. Gucci for combining ivory, white and tans, Armani for blending green, grey and even mulberry, Dolce and Gabbana for sexy and cutting edge pieces. Ralph Lauren offers very traditional in style and colouring including pinstripes. Exclusive brands like Baroni, Gianni Manzoni, Hilton, S Cochen, Giorgio Valantini, Jack Victor, and more for your stylish closet.

Always look for balance while teaming it up. Choose clothes that de-emphasize your extremes. If you are short, look for strong vertical elements: pinstriped suits, two-button jackets. If you are thin, choose a jacket with wider shoulders to make you look broader. If you have a heavier build then wear darker colours and go monotone. Narrow trousers give you a leaner and more structured look, best with single breasted blazers, while saggy ones compliment the double breasted. Contrast your shirts to your jackets and experiment with ties. On the odd day, go matching- say black from head to toe.

Fragrance Lanvin L’Homme Sport

2009-07-03T22:27:00.000-07:00

Roundly incised in the glass, the bottle's sober and elegant line radiates a supple but rigorous energy. Its 'soft touch' feel shellac finish introduces the hand to a grip that is as firm as it is sensual. Its flannel-textured intense blue shade lights up the logo struck with white by its translucent shine. Graphic, geometric, the cap with its mat metallic silver arc repeats the Lanvin code of the circle within a square. Fashion Designer teasing this graceful opening is an invitation to play the game -- of olfactory discovery. Cultivating elegance as an absolute rule for the fragrance of Lanvin L'Homme Sport which distil the manifesto of a living masculinity, imprinted with an instinctive and aristocratic fluidity. Chic and dynamic, always in action, the Lanvin Man handles a sense of style and of masculinity without equivocation. Refined and conquering, determined yet elegant, he gets his way through his natural sense of ease and assurance.

When Rafael Nadal is not winning aces on the court, he is busy being the face of Lanvin L'Homme Sport. The 22 year old tennis sensation justifies his association with Lanvin when he says, "They proposed a new, different fragrance that would be mine, that I would like. That's how the opportunity came about, and I am very comfortable and happy with it. I take it everywhere." Like a concentration of pure energy, this aromatic woody Cologne delivers a contrasting score, written with ingredients that are opposed yet complementary; whose synergy creates an aura of sophisticated virility. "Young, sporty and fresh", in Nadal’s words. The subtle blending and the perfect balance of raw materials that are emblematic of perfumery and of masculine elegance perfectly express this modern duality that symbolizes the Lanvin man. "I always use it when I go out” claims Rafael and asserts that his favourite smell is the of the sea in Mallorca, and also of the “grass on a golf course."

Like a concentration of pure energy, this aromatic woody Cologne delivers a contrasting score, written with ingredients that are opposed yet complementary; whose synergy creates an aura of sophisticated virility. The subtle blending and the perfect balance of raw materials that are emblematic of perfumery and of masculine elegance perfectly express this modern duality that symbolizes the Lanvin man. The perfume opens on bright and lively notes, distilling an immediate feeling of freshness. It resonates under the vibration of a splash of sparkling citrus, tinted with a touch of bitterness and of spice, combining lemon and Italian bergamot, petitgrain and pepper. An aromatic facet, timeless and never out of fashion, alternating between transparency and depth, its heart beats around sage and lavender. They use their paradoxes to establish this natural link between freshness and sensuality.

Finally…When it comes into contact with the skin's heat, the base unveils its woody and refined temperament. Indonesian patchouli, enhanced by a hint of moss, draws out its signature in comforting musky notes. The range includes Eau de Toilette Natural Spray 3.3 fl.oz/100ml Eau de Toilette Natural Spray 1.7 fl.oz. Eau de Toilette Natural Spray 1 fl.oz. After-Shave Natural Spray 3.3 fl.oz.

Bucherer Patravi Travel Tec GMT

2009-07-03T22:20:00.000-07:00

If you think that watches are a mere accessory to track the ever-elusive time then check this out- India's largest Retail Chain for Swiss Watches, Ethos has brought a truly international shopping experience for watch lovers in India through Carl F. Bucherer Patravi Travel Tec GMT' which has been launched recently. The watch is an exceptional luxury timepiece for globetrotters, active global professionals, and anyone who are travelling frequently, be it for pleasure or business. With its superb finish, impressive dimensions, and highly technical, yet organized appearance; the Travel tec GMT timepiece is currently one of the hottest models offered by the brand.

"The Patravi Travel Tec is a big, bold timepiece that stands head and shoulders above other time zone watches, thanks to its highly functional value and sophisticated functions. Fashion Designer in addition to its practical chronograph, the exclusive CFB 1901 calibre is equipped with ingenious functions that allow three time zones to be displayed." said Mrs Anu Saboo Owner, Ethos Watches. "Don't miss a sapphire crystal on its side through which the watch movement is also visible. These watches are the ideal for the jet setting globetrotter and these are the qualities which make it different and exclusive", she added.

Inside these luxurious timepieces resides a self-winding movement which has been created specifically for the demands of those who switch between time zones with great frequency. In addition to its superb multi-time zone functionality, the Carl F. Bucherer Patravi. Travel Tec GMT watch also offers a chronograph function with both 12-hour and 30-minute total izers, as well as a continual presentation of small seconds; thanks to a 28,800 vibrations per hour balance frequency. These ultimate time pieces are available at the price range between RS 19.20 lacs to 4.95 lacs at the leading outlets of Delhi, Mumbai and Bangalore.

Lakme Fashion Week Gennext

2009-07-03T22:14:00.000-07:00

The multi-faceted designer, who describes her work to be synonymous to art, is a product of NIFT, Hyderabad. The winner of the ‘Most Creative Design Collection’ award during the graduating show at NIFT is an artist, a fashion designer and a painter. After graduating, she worked at Sheetal Design Studio in Mumbai with eminent designers like Manish Malhotra, Aki Narula and Hemant Trivedi and crafted menswear collection. The journey then brought her to the capital city where she started creating womens wear line with Kavita Bhartia and Ranna Gill. Let’s get to know more about this gifted designer. What inspired you to take up this profession? As a child, I was always inclined towards the artistic self in me. I used to love colours, shapes and fabrics and after completing my schooling, I was sure that I have to be an artist or a designer. I always wanted to associate myself with art and since art and fashion are co-related, I love my work.

Your first break…I got my first break at Olive at New Delhi. I am grateful to them that the Olive family had their faith in me and allowed me to present my work along with big names of the industry like Nikhil-Shantanu, Ranna Gill and Manish Malhotra. I launched my label – Nida Mahmood in 2006 and in 2007 got an invitation from Lakme Fashion Week Gennext and showcased my first collection. Your design philosophy…My design sensibility goes back to the word art. Everything I do is based on art whether it is writing something for any publication, designing clothes or painting. Your views on the current void in the fashion industry…I must confess that the Indian fashion industry is growing. There are some problems though. I am hoping that those will get streamlined. People within the industry are very dedicated but it is a pity that we are unable to bring out our talent in the forefront.

Finally one fashion week in Delhi…Comment. Whatever has happened, I am in favour of it. It is a good idea, and especially good for buyers. Now they would not have to juggle between two fashion weeks. This will give a sensible image of our fashion industry. It is better to forget your differences and move together. Designers you die for? John Galliano and Vivienne West wood are two of my favourite designers. But I also adore Marc Jacobs for his chic and cool collections.

Future plans…I am trying to come out with many things by the next season, about which I would not like to reveal much. But yes, I am planning to launch a parallel label of mine. There are some interesting things in the pipeline. I am trying to revive one of the dying art in my next season’s collection. Advice for budding designers…I feel styling is very important. One should step out of the box and should create a look which is reflective of them. If you come out with new ideas, you’ll be recognized for a long time, even though it may take some time before people can absorb them.

New Collection Natural Heirloom

2009-07-02T23:32:00.000-07:00

In a beautiful departure from her earlier works, Jewellery designer Farah Khan Ali presents a new collection of heirloom jewels inspired by the myriad forms and motifs of nature. The three dimensional forms and shapes of nature take centre-stage in this collection. A dancing peacock unfurling his feathers in an exotic dance, a curled cock shell resplendent in be jewelled glory, a coiled serpent bathed in gemstones in the colours of the rainforest, a rose in full bloom with soft petals, a butterfly on a flower- Farah's newest inspirations remind one of nature that’s always in motion and yet balanced with its surroundings. In Farah's words, "My designs are flamboyant, ornate and adventurous. I believe jewellery should make you feel like a princess when you wear it, no matter how big or small the piece of jewellery is, it should be eye catching and make the wearer feel special". The unconventional designer recently showcased her line of jewellery at the IIFA in Macao where sister Suzanne Khan Roshan walked with her superstar hubby Hrithik Roshan, both dazzling in Farah's pieces symbolic of eternal love. It's nice to have one of the most expensive couple walk free for you", laughed Farah, “but I don’t look at them that way... Suzzane is the face of my brand and I wanted Hrithik to accompany her because they have never walked together. They are an epitome of love for many, and me too, since they are family to me."

Hrithik had worn a pendant that represented a falcon surging his wings in air to fly made out of blue sapphire, diamond, yellow gold while Suzzane looked bridal in a neck pieces made out of emerald and diamonds- a symbol of love, wealth and health. Coloured precious gemstones such as emeralds, rubies, rubelites, tanzanites, sapphires, spinels, yellow and blue diamonds dazzle in their unusual setting, runway photos the collection comprises of Necklaces, Earrings, Bracelets, Cuffs, Rings, Brooches and Pendants that have multi-purpose wear options. Before signing off Farah was honest enough to accept that 'Recession' was the inspiration behing churning out this affordable line which starts at Rs. 50,000. "Lifestyles have always influenced trends. In these troubled times, I wanted to make statement pieces that are affordable yet not extravagant. It’s my way of making people feel happy!"

Paris Fashion Week Runway Collection

2009-07-02T23:02:00.000-07:00

Men’s catwalk exploded the runway with fireworks emanating from designer collections at Paris Fashion Week. The week just got over on 29th of June lightening the sartorial load on the ramp with ultra light fabrics. Bold prints, harem pants, slim fitted trousers, tailored look and beefy sailor looks ruled the runway. Cuts came through at Hugo Boss from a 1980’s take on tailoring. The German suit maker also sent out a collection fit for the beaches of a chic French beach resort. Heavy metal sequins covering several well-cut jackets sparkled like scales. The looks were eye-catching, but gave even style maverick Adrian Brody look.

Colour took centre-stage at the Paris-based Japanese label Issey Miyake, as designer Dai Fujiwara sent out Turkish-inspired harem pants and short suits in turquoise, ceylon and Persian blues; embellished with geometric mosaic designs and eye-popping tulip prints. Triangles and hexagons woven into a cotton fabric turned a generously cut summer jacket into a delicate mosaic.
This time, translucence was the key for Calvin Klein. The opening outfit set the tone- a transparent onyx parka over Lycra shorts, in keeping with what has become the Zucchelli tradition of extreme sportswear. If the designer's signature collection was an exercise in adult restraint, this outing felt like an experiment in quirk. Emporio Armani show cased wrinkly things, scaly designs, burgundy leather mesh, sober suits, and lots of orange, deluxe oriental fabrications; long johns, models on BMX bikes and a tiny child in pinstripes.

Givenchy adopted for a flying wedge of his peers and gave the clothes a ferociously sexy athleticism using high-performance fabrics in a mosaic like print founded on the star motif. The short-over-leggings silhouette was predominant in his version of a sports uniform. John Galliano as bizarre as ever, showcased the usual wall-to-wall spectacle, with an unusual cast of thousands, painted and garbed to resemble anyone but themselves. Separately all pieces are wearable. The theme was Napoleon's rise and the Napster being a character that Galliano effectively identifies with the show's arc.

Massimiliano Giornetti is known for his expertise in sublimating his inspirations into the grander design of Salvatore Ferragamo. This season he was influenced by the colours and textures of Africa but in transforming his impressions, he managed to produce a collection that was unutterably Italian. The recipe for the new Lanv in collection this season was Lightness, colour, desire and a lot of work. A tiny bow on a neckline, another at the waist, kimono-cut shirts, high-waist khakis, a green coat in what looked like crepe, puff sleeves, shorts in tie silk are the feminine flourishes that distinguished the label.

This time Yohji Yamamoto show cased simple clothe with little details. The palette, fabrics, silhouettes were much the same as always- black, indigo blue, linen, cupro and oversized. But the designer had slipped in a little subtext, his name written in Cyrillic script inside the breast pocket of jackets. The audience for Raf Simons' show was sitting in a beautiful garden, looking at a snake or at least a snake printed on a pair of jeans. The belts woven around the bodies of the be suited Adams were also serpentine. The logo on the backside of the jeans was with the snake coiling in an S shape.

The fashion designer included knit torso with cloth jacket shoulders and jackets whose sleeves were slashed open like something from the Renaissance. The unlocking key of Stefano Pilati's latest enigmatic collection was the T-shirt he was wearing when he took his bow. Pilati introduced the collection with a short film made by director Samuel Benchetr it. Yves Saint Laurent jackets were cutaway, low in front, higher in back, which gave an illusion of urgency, like the models were leaning forward. Over all, it was a fun and colourful voyage to menswear fashion at the Paris do.

Cote D’Azur Collection

2009-07-01T00:01:00.000-07:00

While monsoon is taking its time to downpour and the sun is still burning our soft skin in some places, Chanel has unveiled its new summer make-up collection. Inspired by Mademoiselle Chanel's first line of sun care cosmetic products, this year Peter Philips, Global Creative Makeup Director for the brand has revamped that line and titled it as Cote D’azur Collection. The makeup collection interprets the sporty and modern allure of Mademoiselle Chanel and accentuates on warm tones of copper and bronze, which harmonize with golden and sunny shades of skin. These will add a glamorous touch and will light up the lips, eyes and the nails. Fashion week coverage

Want the 'just back from the beach' look? Soleil Tan De Chanel is the product that women should keep in their bags in heading to holiday destination near beach and islands. It is a four facetted bronzing powder for tanned and sun-kissed complexion. The Poudre Precieuse Libre is a sparkly powder created for face, shoulder and décollete. The golden bronze pearlizers and rosy micro particles add the just the right amount of shimmer that makes the women look dazzling.

Talking about the usage of his new creations, Peter Philips said, "Comprising of four highlighting shades, Poudre Soleil 4 Lumieres provides a powdery finish. One can use each colour by brushing from left to right or can mix the four bronzing pigments by sweeping the brush from top to bottom. Similarly, there are many wonderful ways to use Poudre Precie use Libre Effet Hale. One can apply it on the top of the cheekbones, the line of the nose and the forehead or simply dabbing it over areas where the sun caresses the skin." Highlighting the lips with the sunny colours offers six irresistible shades of Ischia, Lipari, Porto, Rotondo, Salina, Panarea and Monte-Carlo. Formulated with SPF 15, the lipsticks under the Aqualumiere line has incredible shine in semi-sheer shades that offers fullness of your lips. For a more seductive result, one can apply Aqualumiere Gloss, shades include Cherry Blossoms, Tangerine Dream, Ginger Shimmer. Celebrity Fashion after beautifying your face and lips, Chanel has also got something for your nails. Designed to be a real nail care product – Le Vernis – ensures rapid drying and long lasting hold, available in two shades Le Vernis Orange Fizz, a fresh-squeezed, juicy orange colour and Le Vernis Golden Sand in a warm sandy gold hue. Chanel also recommend a new product called the Mousse Douceur which when comes in contact with water, produces foam that helps to get rid of the pollutants and impurities and removes all traces of makeup and offers a velvety finish.

Style Tips For Women

2009-06-27T01:20:00.000-07:00

The Indian fashion industry is leaving no stone unturned to position themselves amongst the best designers of the world. Looking back at the history of head gears, one will realise that these are very much in trend on the Indian runways as are in the European fashion industry. “Accessories tell the best stories….be it the belt, bag or headgear. Clothing have a universal influence, the difference in each culture of time frame can only be justified by the styling or the accessories.” This is what the ace designer Suneet Verma has to say when we asked him about the latest trend of larger than life headgears on Indian runways. Style Tips For Women Nida Mahmood whose collection, ‘High on Chai’ made big news because of the larger than life headgears said, “They are set according to the mood of the collection. Since my collection was targeting the common man, I portrayed headgears like black crow, tea kettle; etc.” Most designers confessed that the whole idea behind these huge and grand headgears is to weave the collection well. It enhances the look of the collection and helps to tell a story. But few of them also accepted that these act as a perfect visual treat when seen on the ramp and create a style statement of sorts.

Theses massive designs are not only creating waves among the famed designers but are also impressing budding designers. Props always add that extra zing to the whole collection. Varun Bahl commented, “I showcased headgears in my couture collection. I would say, the credit for these innovative headgears goes to Little Shilpa (accessory designer)”. Sometimes the ideas are totally freakish when it comes to headgears. There was a time when designers used to have fun creating awkward shoes and hats and now it looks like they have changed their vision and moved on with odd ones.

Suneet Verma throws caution to the wind, “It’s important to be true to your inspiration and be very well researched in the kind of accessories and headgear one wants to show…because it can be misleading for the audience. Also never use headgear for the sake of it, it has to work in balance with the garment and compliment it”. The designers who have brought in this trend have diverse option when it comes to making large and huge headgears. They can go really wild while hunting for the techniques and materials to create those amazing head pieces, “the best material would be one that is gentle to sculpt and mould and wouldn’t be too heavy as it can be uncomfortable for the model” directed Suneet. Materials can range from a kettle, a telephone, newspaper crafted in any shape, usage of beads, feathers, Indian jewellery pieces, trays, vibrant handmade sheets, biscuit packets, jute ropes, cardboards, wires, colourful threads, aluminium glasses and many more.

Though we see a lot of experiments with the headgears on the ramp, how do the models cope with these huge creations on their head? Nida Mahmood opines, “I don’t think, they have any problem, in fact I think models are very much open to new experiments and creations. Models are very supportive and even they like to try out something new and unique.” It is pretty much clear that headgears are more visual than functional. But nothing lost at the end of the day. The wearability of these pieces may or may not be justified, but they sure add that X factor to the show which works wonders for the media frenzy. The bottom line is, if you have them in your runway show, you are bound to make it to the front page next day, even if you don’t have a celebrity showstopper.

Fashion Week Coverage

2009-06-27T01:19:00.000-07:00

One of the greatest names in haute joaillerie, de GRISOGONO has unveiled their new summer jewellery line up that truly reflects elegance and sensuality under the strict supervision of Fawaz Gruosi who has chosen this year to extol the very essence of noble materials and precious stones. “My latest collection is the summer, wherein I have experimented with a new colour stone combination, something that is unprecedented and unique. The collection is made with turquoise stones and teamed with emeralds. The effect I have to say is striking” said Mr Fawaz Gruosi – Founder and Creator, de GRISOGONO.

Famous for his innovations, Fawaz has invented precious rings and necklaces that will not only be appreciated by all the gorgeous ladies but will also fulfill their desire of owning a statement piece. Ring in white gold set with a cylinder and beetle cut turquoise affirms its elegance and originality. Fashion Week Coverage Necklaces on the other hand, play around with colours with 50 turquoise studs, 1169 emeralds and white diamonds.

So how is the brand different in their aesthetics? “de GRISOGONO, as a brand, is one which takes risks. We are famous worldwide for our inventiveness and that is what makes us different. Our success can be attributed to the fact that nobody ever experimented with materials. And for us, that was the only way to ensure the success of de GRISOGONO. In fact, my first time in India was about 9 years ago when I came to Mumbai to buy stones. At that time, nobody wanted to cut rough black diamonds, but India did and created a range which became very successful and created a sort of trend at the time” explained Fawaz Gruosi. Loyal to the vision of luxury and perfect example of absolute perfection, these eternal pieces of de GRISOGONO collection start at Rs. 2.75 lakhs.

Fashion Week Models Photo

2009-06-27T01:17:00.000-07:00

Prints to fashion are what design is to a car. Various prints add dimension to the fabric and make the patterns look more beautiful. But how many of us really know what print is achieved how? Well, each one who has read this one will know it now.

Tie and dye is one of the most traditional and beautiful printing techniques which are in fashion and can never fade away. Batik, Bandhini (bandhej)and Laharia are various ways of tying and dyeing. The tying of cloth with thread and then dyeing, it is the simplest and perhaps the oldest form of creating patterns on a plain piece of cloth. The fabric is washed and degummed.

Often it is dipped in a mordant so that it can absorb the dye. The cloth is folded, first lengthwise, then width wise into four folds. The patterns on the body are then indicated all over the surface with the use of blocks dipped in gerua red mud colour. The fabric is gradually dyed to the final dark colour. The motifs vary according to the material used during tying like rice grains or marbles. This process could be really time consuming to achieve complicated designs with multiple colours. You can find Bandhini prints in the latest spring summer’09 collection of Alberta Ferretti and Tarun Tahiliani.

Another form of tie and die, which is a specialty of Rajasthan, is the lahriya and Mothra. Here the opposite end of the length of the cloth is pulled and rolled together. They are tied and dyed in different colours producing diagonal multi-coloured lines. When the same process is repeated by using the opposite ends, a check mothra is created. Batik is another technique of dying to achieve abstract designs, where the fabric is waxed abstractly and then dyed with different colours. These days we have started using chemical dyes however vegetable dyes were preferred initially. I kat is a process in which dying is done before weaving. First a design is drawn and the warp and weft threads are carefully measured, tied and placed in the dye solution. For fabrics of different colours, the ties are removed and the warp is retied and dyed again to create layers of colour. A Double I kat is when both the warp and weft are tie-dyed. Designers like DKNY, Oscar De La Renta and Marc Jacobs used. I kat for clothes and accessories as well. Fashion Week Models Photo

Block printing is a form of dying and colouring a fabric using wooden blocks. India is one of the largest manufacturers and exporters of block printed fabric in the world. Block printing craftsmen use wooden or metal blocks to create beautiful designs. Bagh and Maheshwari block printing motifs are famous. Motifs vary according to the state. Direct printing, discharge printing and resist printing are types of block printing. In the process cotton or silk cloth is first washed free of starch. Then it’s dyed. It’s washed thereafter to remove excess colours. Once the fabric is printed it’s dried in sun. Then it’s steamed after rolling it in newspaper. Ultimately dried and washed again. Ironing is the last stage.

Screen printing is a printing technique that uses a woven mesh to support an ink-blocking stencil. It came into appearance for the first time in Chinadu ring the Song dynasty. Various techniques are known as Screen Printing, silkscreen and serigraph. Traditionally silk was used for screen-printing, hence the name silk screening. Screen printing is also a stencil method of print making in which a design is imposed on a screen of silk or other fine mesh, with blank areas coated with an impermeable substance, and ink is orced through the mesh onto the printing surface, also known as serigraph.

Dairy of A Model Namit Khanna

2009-06-27T01:13:00.000-07:00

Creating beautiful homes is what his family is into, with his dad being an architect and mom an interior designer. Born and bred in the capital, this hazel eyed model completed his schooling from Modern School, Delhi. He finished his graduation and after shooting a portfolio in 2009, a year later Namit took up modelling as a part-time profession. Then after a gap for about a year he went to study Business Management in Kingston University, London. Gradually, things started working out and finally he signed up with international modelling agency Elite and in 2009, shifted to Mumbai. Stylekandy.com meets up with this 6 feet 2 inches tall, handsome, hunk. Best thing about being a model? Modelling is not a consistent career. Though this is a hectic profession, but there is a lot of time in hand, which allows you to indulge in many things. The best thing about being a model is that you get to travel a lot.

Your fitness regime…Gymming is definitely the word. I work out 5-6 days a week and try to eat healthy. I also go for dance classes and have a boxing bag at my home which helps me to relax and act as a stress buster. Choose- walking the ramp or posing for print ads. Ahhh…(with a pause) I think both have their own pros and cons. Ramp excites me enough but print shoots move ahead in the margin. Though in both the mediums, those few seconds when we grab the attention of the viewers excite me a lot, but the tedious pre-show processes are quite unorganized in case of ramp shows.

Fashion Week Models Photo are used as hangers. Agree or disagree? Hmmm…partially yes, but it is up to you, what you want to achieve and how you look at it. Choose-carrying the right look or the right looks? Definitely, the right attitude, if you do not have the right looks but possess the positive attitude, you’ll go a long way. It is all about the confidence level.

Designers you die for? Oh…it’s a long list…starting with Cue by Rohit Gandhi and Rahul Khanna, Rohit Bal, Arjun Khannaand Sabyasachi Mukherjee. Though Sabya is not that much into menswear, I like his style and eye for different colours. Foreign models getting preferences in India. Comment I can not really oppose that. Indian designers and retailers should realize that they are catering to the Indian market. So I feel they should stick to the Indian faces. But, yes I do agree that foreign models have different body language and different frame of mind, but I feel preference should be given to the Indian models only. How do you handle the pressure and competition in this field? Frankly speaking, I do not bother about the pressure or competition. I follow my philosophy, i.e. if you think of competition in the beginning; you have already lost the battle. So always believe in yourself and be confident. Something that people do not know about you? In a shy manner) Some times I can’t control my eating habits as I have a sweet tooth.

Delhi Stands United

2009-06-26T03:57:00.000-07:00

What was the talk of the town for the last three months has finally shaped into reality. An initiative of the Textile Ministry, the Fashion and Design Promotion Council of India finally has been successful in uniting the void ridden fashion fraternity in Delhi. In an epoch making maneuver, FDPC signed Prodigy Fashion to present Indian Fashion in the city, thus bringing in the expertise and support of Sumeet Nair of Fashion Foundation of India. Fashion Design Council of India's President Sunil Sethi has already been supporting the FDPC goal of a unified fashion week in the city.

Both Sumeet and Vijay Singh, President FDPC have confirmed the report. "We will be conceptualising, organising and executing the fashion week in India. We will continue the same philosophy of presenting the Fashion Week with additional resources from Fashion and Design Promotion Council. While conceptualizing the Delhi Fashion Week Models Photo we had an independent jury looking into the selection of designers and wanted to create a world class luxury event. The Fashion and Design Promotion Council has encouraged these as guiding forces for the new event that will be held under their aegis" declared Sumeet.

The question now is which fashion week are we talking about? Vijay clarifies, "The ultimate goal of the FDPC is to be able stage one unified fashion event in the country, which has eventually taken shape. Delhi Fashion Week and Wills India Fashion Week are slated to merge together and host designer likewise. We have 95 percent of the designers from both fashion weeks with us and the remaining are bound to sign within the next few weeks, making the FDPC ‘the fashion governing body’ in India."

Only last year, there were daggers drawn between Sumeet Nair and Sunil Sethi, can they ever co-exist on one forum? “They both are promised pivotal positions and there have been innumerable meetings where they have come face to face and discussed openly. It's time they buried the hatchet", Vijay goes on to advice. How the FDPC will accommodate the 125 plus designers from DFW and WIFW into one fashion week, remains to be seen. Meanwhile Raghavendra Rathore, VP, FDPC suggested, "The number of shows and the number of days is bound to go up." There is also a possibility that the screening process is scrutinised further to ensure that only the best participate. Rumours of hosting an exclusive fashion week for upcoming designers were also being circulated.

Now then, what is the FDPC's take on the decade old Lak me Fashion Week in Mumbai and other new ones in Kolkatta and Bangalore, respectively? "We are focussing now on Delhi, since the situation demanded damage control and crisis management. Letters will be sent subsequently to all fashion bodies. The HDIL Couture Week will be staged this year as per the FDCI commitment. As of now, designers are free to choose" said Vijay. But close sources say that the FDPC will have to check the feasibility of allowing that in the long run, since it's impractical to have a designer have knowledge of the developments in multiple bodies since he is bound to share, just like a 'spy'. Well, the signs are certainly heavenly... as this apocalyptic situation seems to be saved from unleashing all hell, All we hope for now is that there is no rift in the Fashion and Design Promotion Council.

Balvenie Calling

2009-06-22T05:22:00.000-07:00

It was indeed the biggest social gathering of the season, witnessing almost every known face from fashion circuit. The occasion was the pre launch ceremony of 'The Balvenie', the scotch brand from Scotland, a unique range of single malts created by David Stewart. The venue was 'Cibo", Rohit Bal's chic Italian restaurant in Janpath. Beauty Makeup Tips

Produced in Speyside in the Scottish Highlands, the exceptional quality of 'The Balvenie Single Malt’ has been known for individual taste, but each is rich, luxuriously smooth and underpinned by the distinctively honeyed character of the scotch. Pumping beats, lively atmosphere and luxurious whiskey pegs in the hand, made the set of the night, where guests were seen letting their hair down as if they cared a damn.

Balvenie, the world's only handcrafted Single Malt from William Grant and Sons UK is for the discerning connoisseur who appreciates its rich heritage combined with simplistic hand crafted excellence and is enjoyed best with like-minded individuals," said Aparna Batra, Marketing Director, William Grant and Sons Ltd. (India - Subcontinent, Domestic).

The party brought together a host of party revellers, all of who appreciated the simplistic luxury of hand crafted excellence. Color HairStyles Trends "This providing a great evening with friends and partners over a glass of one of the finest Single Malts in the world today", added Aparna, The nightfall included the finest of the business to hot Celebs and socialites like Designers Suneet Verma, Manav Gangwani, Rohit Bal, Atsu, Gaurav Gupta, Rahul jain, Manish Arora, JJ Vallaya, Hemant Sagar, Mandira Wirk, and socialites like the very beautiful Kalyani Chawla, DLF’s Kajal Eijaz, Ramola Bachchan, Sanjay Sharma, Ambika Pillai, Ayesha Thappar, Laxmi Ranaand the list goes on….

Grande Punto

2009-06-22T05:07:00.000-07:00

Fiat has come out with another master piece from its factory of style. Fiat India Automobiles Ltd has unveiled its latest offering – the Grande Punto – in the premium hatchback segment. Low slung compact body, strong muscular wheel arches, dual-tone dashboard and interiors, exudes power and strength. The car with an impression of elegance and compactness is all set to grace the Indian roads shortly. Fashion Models Bulletin

Inspired by the Maserati in its styling, the credit for the designing of the car goes to Giorgetto Giugiaro who believes that the Grande Punto is surely going to make a style statement. The Grande Punto can be best described as "an unconventional hatchback that personifies boldness". The car is loaded with features and will be available in three versions known as Active, Dynamic and Emotion for both the petrol and diesel variants.

The Grande Punto is really a great car. Already made its name outside India, the company has sold more than 1.6 million modals of Grande Punto in Europe. In Brazil Fiat is the number one selling brand when it comes to cars. Recession has nothing to do with a launch of a model, all manufacturers are doing it. Moreover launching the new model was pre-planned around 18 months in advance. We are happy to launch this car in India," shared Marius D'lima, Corporate Communications-head of Fiat India Automobiles Ltd.

The special attraction of the evening was the daring gymnastics which managed to grab the attention of the spectators present in the event. From inspiring dual-tone interiors to attract the attention to body hugging seats, the hatch has every detail that spells flair and comfort. The rear end is softer and rounder, which balances the aggressive front end. To grab the attention, the machine is available in variety of colours and tones namely, exotic red, minimal grey, medium grey, electric blue, Bosso Nova white and last but not the least Hip Hop black.

Speaking on the occasion Rajeev Kapoor, CEO, Fiat India Automobiles Ltd said, "The launch of the Grande Punto marks a new milestone for Fiat in India as we bring the characteristically Italian design to Indian shores. Luxury Fashion jewellery, the car targets those who love hatchbacks and yet want the luxury of a sedan.

Driven by technology, the state-of-the-art FIRE (Fully Integrated Robotized Engine) and Multi-Jet engines combine to offer superb performance with low fuel consumption. The Grande Punto will be available in the country with two petrol engines (1.2 and 1.4 FIRE) and one diesel (1.3 multijet)

Monsoon Workout Information

2009-06-20T03:32:00.000-07:00

This indoor workout is an ultra-effective workout that converts your home into a gym. Get into the fitness groove and watch the body shape-up and the inches slip away. Working out at home has definite advantages over working out in a gym. You don't have to bother about the rains, haul a gym bag around, swap sweat with your companions, wait in the line to use equipment or worry about traffic on the roads. Follow this simple workout plan to get fitter this monsoon. Fashion Accessories Magazine

Home Gym Rules: Feel the benefits of working out in the comfort of your own home. Follow these rules to get the most from your workouts.

Schedule your workout Treat your workout like a regular appointment. Plan for your workout in your daily planner otherwise you'll always find excuses to dodge your exercise session.

Dress appropriately Jeans or rubber slippers are not appropriate attires for exercising. Wear shoes and your comfortable workout clothes so that you'll be serious about your workout session.

Tell your family this is your time off This is not the time to help around household chores.

Make it a rule: this is your time and space to look and feel good. Don't answer the phone What else are answering machines for? Whatever it is can wait until your workout session is over. Switch on music that you enjoy Music makes workouts more enjoyable and you don't realize how time slips by.

Keep a workout logNothing is more motivating than success. An exercise diary gives you a documentation of your accomplishments.

The Home Strength wrkout.

Warm-up: Start with a 5 minute warm-up by walking/marching briskly.

Frequency: Thrice a week, on alternate days.

Home props : Two 500ml water bottles (As you get comfortable with the exercises, use dumbbells to increase resistance), a chair, a wall, a carpet or mat, a bath towel.

Home strength workout : Here are 10 exercises to get you in shape

Home prop: Two water bottles

Bent-over rows (works the mid-back)- Stand tall lean slightly forward from your hips. Hold water bottles in each hand. Keeping elbows slightly bent, slowly, lift your hands squeezing your shoulder-blades and then lower. Do 2 sets of 12-16 counts.

Waist bends (works the waist)- Stand tall with water bottles in each hand. Bend from your waist to the right and return back to the upright position. Repeat 12-16-counts and switch sides.

Home prop: A chair Leg extension (works the front of the thigh) - Sit in chair, abs in. Extend left leg until level with hip. Hold for 2 seconds, repeat with the other leg. Do 2 sets of 12-16 counts on each leg.

Chair dips (works the triceps) - With your back to a chair, position your feet in front of you. Grip the edge of the chair and bend your elbows so that you descend towards the floor. Use your triceps to push back up to starting position. Do 2 sets of 12-16 counts.

Home prop: A wall Wall sit (works the hip and thighs)- Lean with your back against the wall. Bend your knees forming a 90-degree angle and lower yourself as though you are sitting on an imaginary chair. Hold in this position for 30 to 50 seconds. Wall press-ups (works the front of the shoulder, chest, triceps) - Stand tall facing the wall. Place your hands on the wall (keeping them wider than shoulder-width apart). Bend your elbows as you bring your chest closer towards the wall and then return to starting position. Do 2 sets of 12-16 counts.

Home prop: A carpet or mat Chest fly's (works the chest) - Lie on a carpet or mat with your knees bent. Hold the water bottles in your palms, arms extended over the chest and elbows slightly bent. Open your arms to the sides, until elbows are aligned with the shoulders; and then slowly return back up. Do 2 sets of 12-16 counts.

Crunches (works the abs)- Lie on your back with your knees raised at a 90-degree angle and your lower back pressed gently down on the mat. Keeping your chin off the chest, lift yourself up, contracting the abs and then lower down. Do 2 sets of 12-16 counts.

Home prop: A bath towel – Leg stretch (leg stretch)- Lie on a mat or carpet. Extend the right leg up and place a bath towel around your right foot. Hold the ends of the towel and straighten your leg. Hold for 10-30 seconds and then switch legs. Designer runway Collections

Arm stretch (arm stretch)- Extend right arm and bend the elbow, drop the hand behind your head. Hold the towel in your left hand and then bend the elbow behind your back. Hold the towel with your right palm. Hold for 10-30 seconds and then switch arms. The Indoor Cardio-Workout Options.

Staircase climbing - Walk up the stairs take the elevator down. Walking down the stairs puts a strain on the knees. So it is not recommended. March/jog on the spot- March on the spot or jog in place. You could do both as well.

Skipping - Skipping is convenient and an effective way to burn calories. If you have a knee or back problem avoid skipping as it is a form of high impact exercise.

7-Day Workout Plan:

Monday: strength workout

Tuesday: cardio workout

Wednesday: strength workout

Thursday: cardio workout

Friday: strength workout

Saturday: cardio workout

Sunday: Rest/relax

Eat nutritious foods that you enjoy. Eat three or more pieces of fresh fruit and salad each day, vary their colour as much as possible.

Avoid large meals. When you consume five to six small, healthy meals every day, your body needs more calories to break down the food, thereby helping to raise your body metabolism.

Sit down and eat slowly. Eat slowly, to give your body time to release the enzymes that tell your brain you've had enough. The slower you eat, the sooner you'll be satisfied.

Cut back on your salt intake. The body requires only ½ to 1teaspoonful of salt per day. Excess salt consumption can cause water retention and high blood pressure.

Don't overeat if you are stressed out. Avoid eating as an antidote to emotional pain. Whether it is alcohol, drugs or food, excess of any kind leads to weight gain. This, in turn, triggers off higher stress levels, and becomes a vicious cycle.

Keep yourself hydrated. Eat foods with high water content, such as watermelon, oranges, pineapples, tomatoes and cucumber. Drink plenty of water - 8 to10 glasses per day is considered adequate.

Monsoon Superfluities Information

2009-06-20T03:19:00.000-07:00

Many feel that monsoon is all about dressing down and de- accessorization. What they don't realise is that accessories remain vital irrespective of the seasons, they may undergo functional and fundamental changes, but important they are.

Windcheaters- Colourful and attractive, these stylish lightweight windcheaters are the way to go this monsoon. If you think bold coloured raincoats are not fit to be in your wardrobe, then look sexy and trendy in transparent ones.

You can find very feminist transparent and colourful knee length raincoats in cute pastel and bright coloured coats. Celebrity Fashion Police make sure that while wearing these you are clothed underneath with most colourful clothes! Umbrellas- Use neon pink or a transparent umbrella with delicate prints over it.

You can pick up a bright red or a tangy orange or a pineapple yellow or a strawberry pink umbrella, and I can guarantee that all eyes will be following you.

Footwear- You need shoes or slippers that are both practical and stylish. Gone are the days of flaunting high heels and leather boots in monsoon. Usually made of rubber flip-flops dry easily, look great on both guys and girls and come is vibrant colours. We also recommend funky slippers and ballerina shoes to combat boring footwear. But if you are aiming for a slightly more sophisticated look, strappy sandals are perfect in rains, not to forget the gum boots, ideal for guys.

Team up with rubber mules or slippers in bright shades, crocs are also fashionable. Hot pink, navy blue, red and orange are the hottest colours for footwear this season. Fashion experts advise to walk on the rainy roads in black, ankle length gum boots. These look great with almost any western outfit.

You can also experiment with bold colours like red, green, blue or yellow. Also, a lot of stylish and colourful sports shoes in pink, light brown are in vogue in this period.

Bags and Jewellery- Lock up all your metallic jewellery in the darkest closet. It's the season to show off some bolder options. Go for bright beads large wrist cuffs, fancy broad bangles and some funky earrings. Beauty Tips bright hair bands are a great way to dress your hair. Do not forget to wear a flashy belt, especially a patent leather one with any trendy outfit of dull colour. Also while choosing a handbag, pick the ones which are waterproof like the transparent plastic purses orsling pouches

Monsoon Makeover Information

2009-06-20T03:09:00.000-07:00

The thought of those gloomy clouds, getting drenched in rain gives a feeling of enjoyment but when it comes to rain damaging our hair or skin, the feeling fades out. If you are from the subcontinent, the effect is all the more alarming, making it necessary to take care of your skin and hair in this capricious climate.

Fashion Tips Hair: Monsoon is not a friendly season when we talk about tresses. The raised bar of moisture in the atmosphere makes the texture of hair dull, flat and tangled resulting in limpness, greasiness, dandruff and hair fall. Follow these simple tips to say a goodbye to a bad hair day during monsoons.

1. Always cover your hair.

2. Don't use hair sprays or gels as the hair lacquers and gums can stick to scalp causing dandruff.

3. A big no to hot hair treatments like perming or straightening during this season. Put your hair dryers away.

Stylist Sylivieshared, "Frizzy hair is a common problem in monsoons, because of the excess humidity in the air that tends to make the hair coarse. Therefore conditioning is very important in monsoon. Go for a mild shampoo that will add right lustre and bounce to your tresses". "Forest Essential's herb-based shampoos are free from harsh, damaging sulphate cleansers. They do not strip the scalp of its natural oils and offer a combination of plant-derived cleansing agents that help balance the hair's natural PH," said Mira Kulkarni director of Forest Essential. Wear your hair short, or opt for a style that can bounce back easily after being wet. Stylist Clint Fernandesinformed, "A simple bun with a clip or just a simple ponytail of your straight silky hair will give a simple yet stylish look in monsoon. Go for zero chemical shampoos by Fab India.

Makeup Tips : In monsoon, dense makeup bears a risk of being smudged and washed out so go for the light and sheer make up. "The best option is to remain make-up free. Use waterproof mascara, liners, oil based kajal (kohl) and long stayed lipsticks," said Clint. "The Body ShopOil Free Foundationis perfect for monsoon augmented with Marula oil Some of the other products best for rainy season are The Body Shop Poppy Seed Reviving Maskand the Waterproof Mascara," said Shriti MalhotraGM, The Body Shop.

Eyes: Forget the eyebrow pencil for some time; keep them in shape with threading. Power based eye shadow in light pinks, nudes, sheer green or light purple can be used. To add drama to your eyes, stick to water-resistant eye liners in fresh colours like green and blue. Avoid concealer, touch up those dark circles with a dab of water-resistant foundations.

Foundations: One can replace foundation with face powder that matches with the skin tone. Waterproof moisturizers can also be used to serve as a base for the makeup.

Blusher: Oil based crème blush in shades of pink, peach and brown are best. Earthy and pastel shades like brown or peaches are going to rule.

Lips: Stay away from lip glosses and lip liners. Use matt lip colours or lightly tinted lip balms. Spa Sonia Michon-Floc'hlay Vice President of Estee Lauder revealed, "Don't forget to exfoliate as it will remove all the dead cells and rejuvenate your skin."

Treatments like detox wraps, spa pedicure and manicure specifically powered with the natural goodness of aloe vera, spirulina papaya and peppermint oil serve the purpose the best.

Monsoon Fashion

2009-06-20T02:05:00.000-07:00

Guys and Girls, it's time to fold your pants up! The wardrobe during the monsoon is restricted to the two C's- Colour and Comfort. Go bright and flashy this monsoon. Vivid coloured tops and dresses are totally in vogue. Fashion Bulletin Dress up in peacock blue, soft pinks and bright orange sexiest colours of this season. On the other hand, muted shades of grey and black and earthy tones of beige, brown and khaki will also spell style. Fabrics are natural - cotton, linenmostly, but developed ones like enzyme washed satins and crushed polyviscose knits in modalare in.

Capris in hues of dark brown and black work best with bright, solid colours to lighten one's spirits on a dull day. Girls, the shorter the pant, the better it is! Team up Capris with short ¾ length ethnic kurtis in hues of peacock blue, purple, red, maroonand parrot green. Fashion Tips Short flare skirts and knee length halter neck dresses with a scarfof exotic designs are a must have for evening wear. Asymmetrical synthetic kaftans are super hot this season when teamed with a tight fitting mini skirt. Fitted synthetic jackets in Chinese white and lemony yellow work best on any sporty outfit.Say goodbye to full length denims, long ethnic skirts, saris and leather this season. However, if you are a denim freak, opt for light weight denim fabrics. Knee length Cargos of synthetic fabrics are a must have in casuals this season, for men and women both. Cargos in hues of red rust, light orange and military green are best for everyday rains.

We spoke to ace designers like Arshiya Fakih, Lina Tipnis, Shane Peacock, Narendra Kumar and Namrata G to figure out the key looks for men and women;

Key Looks for Women:

1. Denim or cotton capris in earthy tones look best when worn below trendy tunic kaftans inspired by the 80’s prints. Can be accessorised with bold statement pieces in single tone shades and matching filp-flops.

2. A sporty sleeveless or a racer-back tee will attract all the attention when teamed up with shorts or hot pants, all in vibrant colours like sun yellow, hot pink, etc. Crocs or water friendly sports footwear work best here.

3. Trapez-shaped dresses with naturally inspired prints and excessive green foliage worn with basic pumps, replace the little black dress at the more formal occasions.

4. Trendy tops above roll up denims above unisex sandals can be experimented at whim. Another hot favourite is the boyfriend jeans, apt for the care a damn monsoon look.

5. Mini-skirts in colours of the rainbow should be worn with a white top and accessorised with funky and colourful neck pieces and earrings.

Key Looks for Men:

1. A pastel shirt with prints or plaids suits best with simple jeans. Comfy slippons spell both style and functionality.

2. Chinos in linen and cargos in cotton look best with military inspired tees to complete that trendy safari look. Boots or covered sandals will go with this one.

3. Lean fitted trousers should be worn with a trendy shirt with oversized pockets, tennis shoes complete the look.

4. Single breasted, buttoned trench coat in black with contrasting big collar shirts inspired by the 70's is the way to be at a night occasion.

5. Three fourth cargos and a sporty vest with a slingy pouch matching those crocs readies you for hitting the beach.

Get Innovative With Cotton

2009-06-18T23:09:00.000-07:00

New Delhi Feb 07: Cotton Council International in association with National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT), Delhi organized the 'Get Innovative with Cotton' fashion show at NIFT campus. This initiative was a part of the ongoing 'Cool with Cotton' campaign to generate awareness about the benefits of cotton and its uses. The glamorous evening had models such as Amanpreet Wahi, Barkha Kaul, Himani Thapar walk the ramp in the NIFT student’s collection.

Cotton Council International created the 'Get Innovative with Cotton' competition to encourage young designers to experiment with the use of cotton for different occasions. Beauty Tips the four themes of the show were – "elegance work" (corporate wear), "be chic be the star" (party wear), "chill out in comfort" (casual wear) and ethnic and contemporary (fusion wear). The esteemed panel of judges included Ms Agneiszka Fijol, Senior Manager, South Asia, Cotton Council International, Ashwinder Singh, CEO, USI and fashion designers Puja Nayar and Gaurav Gupta.

The unique aspect of the show was that it was open to students across different specialization areas – fashion design, knitwear design, accessory design and even design space. The first stage of shortlist took place on Feb, 01, 2008 where the jury comprising NIFT and CCI shortlisted 30 design out of more than 50 participating entries. The final four winners will be profiled by WGSN, world’s top fashion trends analysis consultancy subscribed to by luxury fashion houses and designers across the world.

Dior's Haute Couture Fashion: Jan.'2008/Paris- John Galliano's latest haute couture collection for the house of Christian Dior was a youthful vibe, with a bit of 60s' and maybe a little bit of classical pop art— very flamboyant and glamorous in true Galliano style. His Dior collections from historical references like the scandal-making Sargent portrait of "Madame X" or the story of Salome tends to confound the literal-minded. They expect to see these references, and when they get instead a ballooning sack dress in livid fuchsia silk mobbed with sequins, a pair of peacock-blue feather eyelashes and a gold lampshade hat, they complain that it's visually confusing. Celebrity Fashion Police the hemlines have gone a lot shorter and the skirts are more voluminous than usual.

The pieces are actually a lot simpler and wearable. The emphasis was on the vibrant colours and the excessive embroideries, which turn out amazing as usual. There are some new silhouettes and shapes being showcased— like a puffy yellow dress that is twirled into the shape of an orchird, giant roses bursting from the hem of a purple dress and a severely squarish maroon coat. Overall, this is another stunning collection from the House of Dior.

Fashion Week Revealed

2009-06-18T22:56:00.000-07:00

The fall '08 at New York Fashion Week debuted styles infused in '70s couture, punk and hard rock roots. Labels unveiled their fall 2008 lines, and continued the retro bent popular in the world's largest fashion show. Unafraid to take risks, Designers unveiled elaborate variations which called for sequins, ribbons and large bows, the latter of which was another nod to late '70s Fashion Tips and experimented with knit fabric as well as coats to complement the dress. The miniskirts were back in vogue, partnered with tights, which were widely expected to go out of fashion for 2008.

The idea of '70s couture and modernized it was to deem the collections an "eclectic glamour". Retro styles such as bow blouses, pants bordering on the bell-bottom design, and peasant fashions were interspersed with more modern knits, silk and plaid designs for tops, dresses and jackets, respectively.

The captivating looks were created by folding single pieces of jewel-toned silk twill and wool Melton. An unmistakable '70s vibe ran through the collections, from floppy hats to velvet pants to the metallic sheen on just about everything. Models were out wearing black biker jackets, leather dresses and super slim tuxedo jackets looking like squeaky-clean 80s-punk rebels.

Soft, delicate beaded silk chiffon tops and dresses were paired with a slew of Skittles-colored parkas, cropped shear ling coats and little metallic jackets. Spa Treatments Tips With few exceptions, the overwhelming theme was "old is new" and that the '70s were even more in fashion than the shows.

Marc Cain Summer Extravaganza

2009-06-18T22:32:00.000-07:00

On the first day of the luxury & lifestyle exhibition, Extravaganza at the Grand Hyatt, Mumbai, international designer Marc Cain's summer prints stood tall, attracting one and all. The high end luxury brand continued to live up to the expectations of hundreds of women and men alike, who anxiously had been waiting for over an hour to be treated with the designs for the ongoing Spring- Summer season.

Bright coloured dresses and easy-going tops above a pair comfy trouser formed the silhouettes of the designs. Fashion Tips the collection struck a balance between formal nightwear and semi formal street wear. While the formal palettes comprised of animal prints, muted silver and shinning black and white, the semi formal collection was dipped in multi coloured prints in which yellow, red and green dominated the hues.

A unique feature of the collection was the bags that the models flaunted as they strutted down the runway. While the shades contrasted the respective colours on the body, the attribute that reverbed synonymously was- Big is Better! The look carried by the models was that of sheer flamboyance and carelessly cool, a style statement that strongly echoes a care-a-damn attitude.

While the ramp show saw some of the regular faces of the runway, it will remain etched in the memories of many for staging a comeback for super model Aditi Gowitriker, who has been on a hiatus for the longest time ever! Where have you been, is the inquisitive question. "Well, just have been around. Enjoying life with friends and family", replies Aditi casually. Fashion Bulletin But what about the millions of fans who have longed interminably for a glimpse of you? "Can not forget them ever. I am always there for them", she claims, which brings us back to the first question, Where? "They can see me on the website, keep mailing me on the fan club and catch a glimpse of me every time I attend a function", she instructs modestly.

So what happened to good old cat walking which we all miss? "You gotta be kidding me! Look at me, if I adorn the ramp now it will have to be called elephant walking!" Though that might be the case, it's really not that bad after all-I try to cajole her. Then what made you grace the runway here? "Oh this is just a casual walk that I am taking for Marc Cain because I am in them all the time. It's always a pleasure to show off something that you have always believed in. I am not going to praise the collection endlessly because frankly, the designs speak for themselves. But I thoroughly enjoyed myself here", she expresses gratefully.

India Brand Show

2009-06-05T21:45:00.000-07:00

The third day of Future Fashion Tips House India Brand Show witnessed a surfeit of formal suits from brands such as Van Heusen, Belmonte, Trussardi and Indigo Nation. The fete kickstarted with a range of shoes by. The models, sporting severe black ensembles, strode down the runway in a black and white collection of brogues, loafers and oxfords. The women’s collection displayed achromatic embroidered stilts, wedges and pumps.

Reid and Taylor parade of severely tailored two-button and three-button suits and flat-front pants—was 007 sharp. There was an unrelenting emphasis on sharp tailoring, giving the showing we-mean-business toughness. Checked jackets in classic shades of chocolate and grey were teamed with formal shirts and straight cut gabardine trousers. A deep red striped shirt worn under an ecru striped summer suit with fine top-stitch detailing, provided a counterpoint to the prevailing tone. Amrita Arora Walks The Ramp For Scullers

The visual cues for collection were loud graphics. Their seditious spirit underlined the theme that graphics are now perversely to be found in the most classic clothes, because "everything else has been done". Fashion Bulletin that explained why the collection placed the emphasis squarely on classic tailoring in subtly twisted tasteful tones. The opening sequence—shirts thrown casually over t-shirts—read like a manifesto, compounded later by a striped t-shirt worn over a round neck shirt, Bermudas, and floaters. Sneakers came pre-scuffed, and even the layered look was clumsily pressed and worn to rough up its polished perfection. But Dockers seems congenitally incapable of playing it straight. So a two-toned jacket emerged, in addition to a line of formal shirts.

Allen Solly womenswear sought inspiration from 'a traveller's myriad moods and featured shorts, slim pants, cropped tops, and knee-length flared skirts. Inspired by the technology used by urban dweller that makes up Allen Solly’s target audience, Luxury Fashion Accessories collection also featured sleeveless contrast collar tees and summer shirts with satin inserts. Also of note: the layered look, hats, and brooches.

Fusion Fashion for Temple of Time

2009-06-05T00:52:00.000-07:00

The third & final & the most breathtaking collection were that of drapes. Exquisite bridal-wear saris with floral motifs and petals as if are marking the onset of the mellow spring season. What was your inspiration for such a lovely collection? "For the first one it was the care a damn kind of Indian girl that exudes power to me. Fashion Tips the second personifies the character of the modern Indian woman who has adapted to the western lifestyle, yet is deeply rooted to Indian culture and ethos. The drapes are solely inspired from the cuts and silhouettes of the 16th century Indian empresses, they are my attempt to make a bride's dream come true", elaborates Archana tirelessly. At the end of it all, Archana had not one but two show stoppers - Geeta wearing a black deep back blouse under a sliver embellished sari and Mahima Choudhry sporting a short black dress and a Georgio Armani Prive.

Armani's Prive collection at Paris Fashion Bulletin used Rajasthan chic but eschewed the region's traditional bright hues, models instead emerging on the catwalk in slate, cream, and pearl grey. Skirt suits, cocktail dresses, and evening gowns were restrained, their tapered lines embellished with Taj Mahal-meets-Art Deco jewels and minimal draping around cinched waists; coquettish turbans and berets evoked a feel of 1930s glamor.

Maharaja-style tunics, with folded peplums, in pale gold and grey brocade were worn with skinny trousers, rouched at the ankle. Suits featured jackets embellished with a silver scimitar which formed one side of the lapel and ended in a be-jeweled handle protruding over one shoulder. The scimitar effect was also used on one-shoulder gowns. Though the showing was heavy on daywear, there were some red carpet ensembles, including a full-skirted cream organza gown with a fringed bodice and diamante trim. Elsewhere, Armani integrated elements of his Prive jewellery line, using semi-precious stones to form high collars on the jackets and to embellish the straps of column dresses.

The collection was showcased in of Modern Art, Luxury Fashion Accessories which had been transformed into a semi-circular theatre for 600 guests, and a black PVC catwalk snaked past the guests. Leading the Red Carpet contingent were Oscar-nominee Cate Blanchett (in an Armani trouser suit), Lady Helen Taylor (in a plunging L.B.D., also by Armani), and Katie Holmes (in a one-shouldered chiffon gown in pale tournmaline). Following the show, guests proceeded to dinner where mirrored tables were set amidst mirrored columns. The menu included an entrée of creamed cauliflower with crabmeat and caviar, followed by risotto with truffles.