November 2014

Chikankari Sarees – An ode to Lucknow’s tradition

November 27, 2014

No matter how westernized way of fashion we Desi people are adapting, their is still something about the traditional ‘Vastra – Andaaz’ (apparel style) that keeps us rooted to our land of origin. In this fast moving life where lazer prints and chemically framed embellishment techniques are much preferred, the art of handwork is diminishing. This post is dedicated to one such brilliant fashion statement, that was impregnated in the weaves of cotton fabric centuries back; by our royal ancestors. Source : Pinterest Chikankari – Chikan Embroidery Chikan is a traditional embroidery style from Lucknow, India. Literally translated, the word means embroidery. Believed to have been introduced by Nur Jehan, Mughal emperor Jahangir’s wife,[1] it is one of Lucknow’s best known textile decoration styles. (Wikipedia) Technique The technique of creation of a chikan work is known as chikankari. Chikankari is a delicate and artfully done hand embroidery on a variety of textile fabric like muslin, silk, chiffon, organza, net etc. White thread is embroidered on cool, pastel shades of light muslin and cotton garments. Nowadays chikan embroidery is also done with coloured and silk threads in different colours to meet the recent fashion trends and keep chikankari up-to-date. Lucknow is the heart of the Chikankari industry today and the variety is known as Lucknawi chikan. (Wikipedia) Check out this video by NDTV to know more about the embroidery art! The most profound display of this art form can be found in Lucknow Sarees. Lucknawi Sarees What I personally like about Lucknawi Chikan sarees is the intricate detailing giving a delicate appearance to the wearer. The finesse by which they are crafted boosts of royal weaves and bring out a more sophisticated look when draped right. How To Maintain Lucknawi Sarees? 1. Avoid wearing necklace or any sharm jewels that might …

Spice Studio : Alila Diwa Goa

November 24, 2014

Their are two types of people. The type who ‘Eats to Live’ & the type who ‘Lives to Eat’. I believe that latter is what defines my life perfectly. Food is one grand affair that I can’t get enough of. So every time a travel is on my cards, I make sure that I come back with some memorable taste buds that I get to try in the local suburbs. If you are in Goa and would like to experience the authentic Goan delicacies, then make your way to the lush land of Alila Diwa Goa. The food fairy (insane chuckles) blessed me with a chance to try out some great Goan authentics at one of Alila Diwa Goa’s restaurants, The Spice Studio. About Spice Studio Spice Studio is an elegant, contemporary setting for a dining experience centred on the authenticity of Indian spices, their varying flavours and cooking techniques. Located on an elevated platform that spreads naturally around a banyan tree and surrounded by a water body, it features a menu celebrating regional fare from across India and an extensive array of seafood. You can choose from cuisine from the Northern region of the country (Punjab, Rajasthan, Kashmir and Awadhi style), South India (Kerala,Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh), Eastern influences (Assam, Bengal, Orissa), cuisine from Western India (Maharashtra, Gujarat) and our very own Goa. From fresh produce and spices to the serving styles unique to these regions, every meal immerses you in a rich experience of India’s culinary traditions and spice history. You can also opt for a master class with the chef to learn about signature Indian delicacies, cooking techniques and age-old culinary secrets. The Food Tamatar Tulsi Ka Shorba Jaitooni Malai Paneer Non Veg Platter – Prawn Balchao, Kozhi Varjha Curry, Goan Fish Curry, Dum Murgh Biryani, Laccha Paratha, Aloo Kulcha, …

Blackberrys Sharp Nights | Masters of World Music

November 16, 2014

Upscale menswear and accessories brand, Blackberrys, is bringing music lovers in India an unprecedented opportunity. This year its annual flagship event Sharp Nights is organising a five-city World Music tour. Aptly titled ‘Blackberrys Sharp Nights – Masters Of World Music’ the tour will showcase two of the world’s leading world music performers, promote local musical talent and institute a scholarship fund to help conserve traditional Indian music. Masters Of World Music will feature celebrated Malian folk musician Fatoumata Diawara, who will perform in Delhi on November 19th at Blue Frog, Mehrauli and in Hyderabad on Nov 22nd at Durgam Cheerayu Park, Jubilee Hills. The other world renowned artiste on the tour is Malian folk Fusion and Blues guitarist and singer Vieux Farka Toure, who will perform in Pune on December 3rd, Bengaluru on December 6th and Mumbai on December 10th. Commenting on this unique amalgamation of fashion and music and its efforts to accustom the Indian audiences with the genre of world music, Mr. Nikhil Mohan, Managing Director, Blackberrys said, “Sharp Nights has always been a much awaited event. This year we are delighted to introduce world music under the Masters of World Music series. Much like how fashion is intertwined with world cultures, world music too emanates from the remarkable diversity prevalent in the universe. It is here that audiences appreciate how music participates and connects to the world in ways unfamiliar to us.” With this first-of-its-kind world music tour, Blackberrys is also providing an opportunity to home grown talents – Barmer Boys in Delhi, Catharsis in Hyderabad, Highway 61 in Pune, Shoonya in Bengaluru and Rajeev Raja Combine in Mumbai to perform on the very same stage in their respective cities. Furthermore each concert will begin with a fashion auction which will showcase the Blackberrys AW ’14 …

Knits Love : French Connection AW’14 Collection

November 13, 2014

That time of the year when your ‘Eau De Parfum’ will be replaced by dollops of ‘Body Butter’. True story, but it’s just not the grease for the skin, but something to keep the skin warm too that’ll save us from the harsh winters. Talk about staying warm and staying stylish too, we have French Connection making sure that all stays in vogue this Autumn Winter’14. This season they are spreading some old-school ‘Knit Love’. From printed jumpers, cropped party cardigans to wool-blend Vhari knits and embellished woolens; French Connection has taken the knit-wear to a whole new level. Check out some of the knits that I personally loved trying out. Glitter Jitter Knits Cool and casual with a touch of sparkle, this Glitter Jitter Knit offers a glam alternative for cool winter evenings. Embelished jumper Cotton-wool blend long sleeves with round neck. Stingray Sparkle Forget about solid colors, the new season is all about printed knits and this jumper’s abstract knit fits the bill perfectly. Autumn Vhari Dress smart for cooler climes without Autumn Vhari Knit. Pair with printed leggings and a clutch for the day. Velma Knits The slouchy jumper gets a glamorous revamp, thanks to an eye-catching faux pearl trim. Wear Velma with boyfriend jeans for luxe downtime dressing. Doe Deer Throw the wool-blend Doe Deer jumper on with jeans for a casual and cosy cold-weather look. Not just knits, but French Connection’s AW’14 also showcases an array of Jackets & Coats. WOMEN’S WEAR The Autumn Winter 2014 collection looks towards Eastern influences depicting the contrast in Russian wealth, the grandeur of the Tsar regime set against the bleak landscapes of Siberia. A rich colour palette of dove grey, celestial blue and berry punch dominate the collection, modernized through paisley and digitized floral prints and adapted on …

KAZO’S WINTER COLLECTION’14

November 4, 2014

The festive season is over. So what? Do we really need reasons to party? Besides, as 2014 is slowly crawling up to it’s finale; an array of parties is nothing but obvious. And what a better way to say adieu to 2014 than adorning some fine trends and play it up with elan? Kazo, the apparels & accessories brand is one such name that offers a range perfect for any sort of party. Be it an autumn pool side brunch party, or a glamorous cocktail evening affair; their fine detailing and an ode of embellishments makes their Autumn Winter’14 collection the perfect match. Check out the two looks that I styled on Anushri, from Kazo’s Trendy & Limited Edition AW’14 Collection. Champagne Celebrations Style note : When in doubt, befriend the monochrome basics. LBD works for most of the occasions. Team it up with this embroidered jacket if the Autumn evenings get cold. Accessorization should be kept to minimal and an earcuff will work perfectly for this ensemble. The Evening Soirée Style Tip: My personal favorite, this classy style works best to boost up your confidence. From an office party to looking all rad in sophistication; this ensemble is easy to crack and easier to flaunt. If your peplum is lacking the real affect, wrap around a sleek belt for more definition. KAZO AUTUMN WINTER 2014 COLLECTION About Kazo KAZO is a young international brand that amalgamates international trends and fashion at a value that is affordable for the woman of today. Carving out a niche for itself at the centre of the fashion industry within a short span of time, KAZO stands for classy and sophisticated fashion made for the diva who loves to experiment with style. The main asset of the collection is that it is highly affordable which …