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Absolute Makeover: Makeup & Hairstyle By Lakmé Absolute Salon

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Somewhere between attending back-to-back shows, gossip session and streetstyle photo opportunities, I had my very own Absolute’ makeover moment at Lakmé Fashion Week Summer Resort 2014.
You see, the kind people at Lakmé Absolute Salon offered select few fashion and beauty bloggers an opportunity to try out their Spring-Summer 2014’s hottest makeup looks and hairstyles. 

2014 being my year of ‘try new things’, I was more than ready to flaunt a new look.
Not to shy away from experimenting with her looks, I got my friend, beauty and lifestyle blogger, Anusree, to try out a look as well.

Tad bit nervous and a whole lot more excited, we put our faith, faces and hair in the hands of the talented Lakmé Absolute Salon team.
After briefing them with basic instruction regarding our personal preference and hair and skin type, we let the experts takeover.
In less than 30 minutes, the geniuses at Lakmé Absolute Salon created two head turning, compliment worthy looks.
Hey, don’t just take my word for it! As the saying goes, ‘a picture is worth a thousand words’ I let the following images do all the talking.

Anusree's Look: Daylight Drama  
Staying true to Anu’s effervescent nature this look is ideal for her to flaunt her enviable structured jawline and big, beautiful eyes.

Going with Anu’s trademark and preferred blue eye makeup, her eyes were played up with metallic blue eyeliner from Lakmé Absolute makeup range. Bronze eye shadow was added to make the blue stand out better.
Complementing colour pop was added in the form of lush pink lipstick and subtle blush to highlight her cheekbones, while the rest of the look was kept simple and natural.
Anu's hair was styled with in a side French braid. A breakaway from her classic curls, this was done to give a new spin to her riotous curls without diminishing their natural allure.
The overall look is perfect for Anu’s joie de vivre spirit and girl-next-door charm. Fresh and youthful, an ideal look for the day.
Amena's Look: Sundown Shimmer
Keeping in mind my personal makeup preference of dramatic eyes and bold lips, the look created is ideal for my personality and features.
 Metallic green eye shadow paired with black winged eyeliner was the ideal combination to make my small eyes stand out. A few strokes of mascara and my otherwise non-descriptive eyes now had everyone’s eyes on them!
Playing up my natural pout with a shiny coral red lipgloss, the look was completed with a delicate shade of blush that highlighted my cheekbone.
Since I have an oily complexion I opted for a powder base instead of using liquid foundation or concealer.
I had already tried a braided look the previous day; therefore I wanted to go with something different.
 My hairstylist, Sagar, suggested soft curls that would go well with my natural wavy hair. 
Bouffant was added to give volume as well as to up the glamour quotient of the look
With just right amount of drama and glamour, this look was ideal for me on ever level. It suited my skin and hair type as well as my vibrant personality. 

Not as dramatic as ANTM or any other reality show makeover, I must say our 
Absolute Makeover by Lakmé Absolute Salon is no less remarkable. 

Prior to getting our makeup and hair done, Anu and I attended Lakmé Absolute Illusion Makeup Master Class, conducted by Lakmé Makeup Expert, Natasha Nischol.
After the master class we had an opportunity to have a one-on-one chat with Ms. Nischol, where she was kind enough to answer our personal makeup and hairstyling queries as well as pose for photos.
A very heartfelt thank you to Lakmé Absolute Salon’s entire team, for making this a one of a kind, wonderful experience. Along with being very polite and friendly, the makeup artist and hair stylist followed all our instructions to a T, without compromising on style and creativity. 
Not only did we have a great time trying out new looks, we also learnt a few new makeup tips and tricks.

Honestly, I cannot wait for my next visit to Lakmé Absolute Salon to try out new makeup looks and hairstyles. Watch this space for more.

What do you think of our 
Absolute Makeover and looks? Do share your thoughts with me in the comments section.

Till then, tra-la,
 Amena!!
 Connect With Fashionopolis on FacebookTwitterPinterest, Bloglovin' & Subscribe
Instagram: 
@a_fashionopolis
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Summer Style With Accessorize

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Along with the crazy heat, the summer season all brings with it loads of preview invitations. Brands after brands will invite you and then seduce you with the season's best offering.
In my case, no brands has so much seduction powers over me quite like Accessorize!

Recently, I was invited for Accessorize India’s Spring Summer 2014 collection preview.
 
Like any preview, this one too was filled with the season’s latest offerings, delicious treats, a fun game conceptualised by Accessorize India team and an enviable goodie bag to take home.

Like always, I could not stop drooling after delicious baubles and steal worthy bags.
However, just about when I was done, something caught my attention.
In celebration of their 30th anniversary, the entire store was decorated with Accessorize’s Spring-Summer 2014’s campaign featuring Danish model, Nina Agdal.

Aesthetically shot around the globe, Nina beautifully showcases Accessorize's latest collection in a fresh and colourful manner. 

Keeping the current trends and season in mind and inspired by Accessorize's Spring-Summer 2014 campaign here are a few looks styled with Accessorize Spring-Summer 2014 collection.
[Bag, Necklace, Sunglasses, Bracelet, Rings and Sunglass case: Accessorize; Dress: Richard Nicoll Stella; Wedges: Dsquared2 ] 

[Bag, Necklace, Mobile Pouch, Bracelet: Accessorize; Top: A.L.C.; Skrit: Stella McCartney; Sandals: Christian Louboutin]

After ages I have created fashion collages. What do you think of  the above collages featuring Accessorize Spring Summer 2014 campaign? Share your views with me in the comment section.

Till then, tra-la,

Amena!!
 Connect With Fashionopolis on FacebookTwitterPinterest, Bloglovin' & Subscribe
Instagram: 
@a_fashionopolis
email me- 
a.fashionopolis@gmail.com

Lakmé Fashion Week Summer/Resort 2014 Top 10 Trends - Part I

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Being a member of the Indian fashion fraternity, I have been attending the Lakmé Fashion Week since its earliest days.
 First as a fashion student, helping out with backstage activates, then as a part of a participating designer’s team, later as an industry member and since the last 2 seasons as a fashion blogger.
While attending fashion week is not a new thing, covering it as a blogger has been an altogether new experience. It changes your perception and you start to see the entire fashion week with a fresh set of eyes.

Since I have already live tweeted my heart out my views about most of the collections, which pieces I loved, industry news, gossip and the infamous fashion week #overheard, this time round I wanted to cover Lakmé Fashion Week a little differently.
 Instead of a generic rundown of the collections I decided to highlight the top 10 trends seen at Lakmé Fashion Week Summer/Resort 2014.

Trend I: Art Attack
Hands down the most identifiable of Spring-Summer 2014 trends, art is having a major fashion movement! 
From bold brush stroke splashes to paint swirls, photography to graffiti, pop art prints, murals and architecture, all things art has been leaving its colourful impact across the fashion world.
Staying on trend, different forms of art techniques made their appearance all through LFW S/R 2014. 
Indian miniature paintings from 16-19 centuries played muse for Aartivijay Gupta’s collection. Portraits, court scenes, flora and fauna along with Haridas, Tansen and Akbar relaxing in Vrindavan and Ragamala paintings, created a visual story of India’s golden eras. 
While Aartivijay found inspiration in India's history, Narendra Kumar turned to the works of American abstract artist, Franz Kline's paintings and Sounia Gohil’s European Renaissance theme collection saw beautiful digital prints of European decor.  
Trend II: Sports Luxe
From the looks of it, fashion world seems to be crushing on all things sports!
 Possibly the easiest trend to experiment with, the focus is on sportswear basics reinvented in luxe materials.
Key pieces are silky sweatshirt, varsity tees, sporty broad stripes, sneakers, numerical motifs, pleated skirts and anything in sporty silhouettes.
Huemn by Pranav Mishra and Shyma Shetty was the perfect balance of luxury and sporty comfy. GaGa by Tanya Sharma showcased “Out of the Box”, edgy at the same time feminine pieces for the adventurous woman. Nishka Lulla offered easy-to-wear, fuss free clothes, for the globetrotting fashionista.
The motto of this trend is, keep it simply, sporty and chic!
Trend III: 3D Surface Ornamentation
Surface ornamentation and Indian fashion go together like two peas in a pod. The chances of seeing a collection devoid of any form of surface ornamentation, embellishment or embroidery is slim to nil. 
However, this season of Lakmé Fashion Week, designers have taken surface ornamentation to new dimension. Giving a miss to the run-of-the-mill embroidery and embellishment, designers have opted to offer larger than life 3D surface ornamentation.
Nikhil Thampi decided to decorate his well-tailored, structured pieces with 3D gold metallic flowers. Sourabh Kant Shrivastava's “Rebirth in Kaliyug” saw embellishments in the form of acrylic floral motifs and metal trimmings and Urvashi Joneja twisted yards of fabrics to make cords that has been used as an embellishment along with leather cutwork flowers.
Trend IV: Haute Hues- Blue & White
Step aside monochrome, there is a new pair in town! And from the looks of it they are quite a popular duo.
Say hello to Summer season’s IT colour combo: Blue and White (or shades of blue: navy, pottery blue, ink blue, indigo, cobalt, poster blue and white: ivory, porcelain, shell, peach kissed white ect.)
While the blue and white combo dominated at Divya Seth and Khem, the duo made its presence felt at Shehla Khan, Kunal Anil Tanna, Sneha Arora and Ikai by Ragini Ahuja.
From Ajrakh prints with the unusual clamp dyeing motifs at Divya Seth to navy ombré effect and floral embroidery motif at Khem to tie-dye detailing at Ikai by Ragini Ahuja, the colour combo has been displayed in myriads of styles and techniques. 
Trend V: In Full Bloom
They may not be groundbreaking, but floral will forever be considered the epitome of summer. 
Even though it is a regular spring-summer trend, it never fails make an impact. And lets be honest, what is summer fashion without its share of full blooms!
The blooming affair made an appearance at this season of Lakmé Fashion Week as well. While Shruti Sancheti decorated her “Le Pondi” collection with pretty pixie floral print, Lalit Sengar impressed us with his version of Liberty floral and
N&S GAIA by Sidharth Sinha managed to beautifully blend traditional hand-woven textiles of Meghalaya and crafts of Northeast India with delicate floral motifs.
Which of these top 5 Lakmé Fashion Week Summer/Resort 2014 trends you can’t wait to try this season?
Do share your thoughts with me in the comment section.

Till then, tra-la,
Amena!!
Connect With Fashionopolis on FacebookTwitterPinterest, Bloglovin' & Subscribe
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email me- 
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Layered & Stacked With Accessorize

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We all have a gift. At least that’s what my grandma used to say.
While I have no gift or luck with cooking or finding Mr. Right, I do, however, have the gift of accessorising.
The minute I walk into an Accessorize store, my sixth sense, my art of accessorising super power, takes over. 
I know exactly what I want and I know exactly how I will style it. Honestly, I haven't yet met a piece of {statement} accessory I cannot style!

Of late, I have been experimenting with layering statement necklaces. While I love it, loads of my friends and readers find layering statement necklaces quite challenging. 
Layering  {statement} necklaces is one of those things that, on paper, sounds effortless. In reality, when it comes to layering statement pieces, one can easily go from statement-making, to disaster-in-the-making!
To make sure the desired look comes off effortlessly chic, keep these few basic layering rules in mind:

1. Have a Common Theme: Be it colour palette, specific style, a certain kind of look, texture, shape or material, there has to be one common theme that holds the entire look together. Randomly layering necklaces, especially statement pieces that have no aesthetic rhythm or pattern is a major eye sore.

2. Balancing the Lengths: Just like a common theme is needed, so is propitiate spacing between layers of necklace necessary. To layer statement necklaces, the pieces need to be of different length.
Also, the spacing between the necklaces should be equidistant for the final neckpiece to look visually appealing.

3. Harmony in Shape: The basic shapes of all the pieces does not necessarily have to match – but the lines should blend well. Especially, while layering necklaces of different shapes. If the design lines do not complement each other, the final look can easily go from chic to chaotic.

Layering {Statement} Necklaces
Shinny Pretty Things
Playing with candy colour pastel palette, layering three very different styles of necklaces to create an eye-catching blanket of baubles.  

The Modern Gypsy
Inspired by trademark gypsy pieces- tassels, coins, heart charms, variety of different beads and metallic cords- this layered style is ideal for those who like to add an element of drama to their look.

Tribal Chic
In shades of blue and green, different styles of tribal inspired necklaces- chunky plaited threads paired with dainty, rope-style, multi-coloured beads - are layered together to create one chic neckpiece.

 Street Style  
When a slinky stone collar necklace + a Perspex art deco inspired geometric motif necklace +metal rings cluster, rope-style cord necklace are layered together, street style magic is bound to happen.
Mixing three distinctly different yet complementary statement necklaces to create a street style worthy neckpiece.

Viva Glam!
If you’re looking to amp up the “wow” factor, all you need is, sparkling diamante and shiny gemstone encrusted statement necklaces. Layer them together and watch as heads turn your way to stare at the droolworthy masterpiece on your neck!

Ever since Leandra Medine of The Man Repeller started the cult of ‘Arm Party’, stacking multiple bangles and bracelets together has become a staple accessory trend.
Even though this trend has been around for a couple of years, you will be surprised to find how many new stacking combinations are available for you to try.

Stacking Bangles and Bracelets
The Arm Soiree
Get together an eclectic mix of beads, colour-braided cords, pop clustered sequins, glossy chains, sparkly gems and bejewelled bangles, and you swanky, colourful, arm party is ready.

Band Of Baubles
Add a few chunky gold bands along with luscious blue and green stone encrusted stretch bracelet, to create a spectacular stack of baubles. Throw in a few rings, and you got your hands full of an enviable arm party.

Sorbet Delight
Playing with sorbet shades, sacking three very distinctive styles of bangles and bracelets- enamel bangles, funky beaded bracelet and glittery stretchy bracelet-to create one statement making arm party.

 Feeling Boho!
If you’re in a mood to show your boho side, all you need is, bracelets in turquoise and silver combo, adorned with tassels, daisies, beads and crystals. Stack them randomly and let your inner hippie come to life.

A heartfelt thank you to my dear friend, Sakina, who took the time out to model all the above looks for me. Thank you for all your patiences and for doing this with me.

All the accessories featured in the above looks are from Accessorize and are available in any Accessorize store across India or can be exclusively shopped online on Myntra.com

Like me, are you as well obsessed with layering necklaces and stacking bangles and bracelets? Do share your views with me in the comment section.

Till then, tra-la,

Amena!!
Connect With Fashionopolis on FacebookTwitterPinterest, Bloglovin' & Subscribe
Instagram: @a_fashionopolis
email me- 
a.fashionopolis@gmail.com

Fashionopolis Featured On Links À La Mode: IFB Weekly Roundup (May 22, 2014)

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I am happy to share that Fashionopolis post 'Layered & Stacked With Accessorize' is featured on this week's Independent Fashion Bloggers Links A La Mode round-up.
Along with Fashionopolis, please do check out all the other awesome blogs featured on this week's roundup.

lalam0522


Fashion Reality

This week, it took me a long, long time to curate the links, not because of lack of quality, but because there were so many interesting topics to explore. Look Sharp Sconnie, let her facial hair grow to make a point about femininity and documented it beautifully. Vic Styles pondered if you wear the same clothes, can you be stylish? My Fashion S/ash Life found some remarkably stylish gents. And Pupuren discussed the phenomenon of photographing oneself, how one's face changes. (I know this from experience). We may put a face on for the digital world, but there are always a few brave enough to take off the mask.

Links à la Mode: May 22

 
  • Cat Eyes & Skinny Jeans: No-Makeup Makeup
  •  
  • Fashion Trends and More: How High Is Too High?
  •  
  • Look Sharp, Sconnie: Man, I Feel Like a Man
  •  
  • My Fashion S/ash Life: He Got Style
  •  
  • Petite Fille Modele: What's In My Suitcase & Packing Tips
  •  
  • Pupuren: The Masks We Wear
  •  
  • Snippets With Latex: Fashion Blogger Problems
  •  
  • Storybook Apothecary: My Style Icon: Marion Cotillard
  •  
  • Wild Beauty World: Faking It
  •  
  • We Are Ready Made: The Juicy Resort Business


  • Want to be featured in Links à la Mode?
    1. Read the clarified rules and submit your links on this page: Links à la Mode.
    2. If your link was selected and you need this week’s code, visit this page: Links à la Mode Code.


    Till then, tra-la,
    Amena!!
    Connect With Fashionopolis on FacebookTwitterPinterest, Bloglovin' & Subscribe
    Instagram: @a_fashionopolis
    email me- 
    a.fashionopolis@gmail.com

    GIVEAWAY: NIVEA + Fashionopolis #GoSleeveless Giveaway

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    Now that summer season is in full swing, it is time to ditch all things with sleeves and flaunt those arms. Yep, this is nature’s way of asking you to go sleeveless! 
    However, like me, if you too are a tad bit sleeveless shy, Nivea has come out with just the thing we need. The new Nivea Sensitive Whitening Deodorant has everything you need to make you sleeveless ready, without worrying about your underarms.

    I am not going to call it a miracle product and give you false hope of super white underarms overnight. However, what makes Nivea Sensitive Whitening Deodorant unique as well as perfect for going sleeveless this summer is:
    1. It is specifically designed to care for your underarms as well as will help prevent your underarm skin from darkening.
    2. Its ultra light formula with 0% alcohol doesn’t irritate your skin making it ideal for all skin types, especially sensitive skin.
    3. It contains Licorice extracts that reduce melanin production & repair your skin to give you even toned underarms.
    4. It has a refreshing, non overpowering fragrance.

    Since I have very sensitive skin, I was initially a little skeptical about spraying it directly on my underarms. But after using Nivea sensitive whitening deodorant for a couple of weeks, I can confidently say, so far the product has lived up to all its claims.

    Not only has Nivea given us the confidence to go sleeveless this summer, but thanks to the kind people at Nivea we have a fun summer contest giveaway exclusively for friends and readers of Fashionopolis.
    2 lucky winners stand a chance to win exclusive INR 2,000/- gift voucher, EACH, from Myntra.com

    a Rafflecopter giveaway 
    Giveaway Guidelines:
    1. Giveaway is open to Indian residents only.
    2. Both women and men can participate in the giveaway.
    3. Please follow all the steps mentioned in the above Rafflecopter for valid entries. 
    4. Remember to leave a comment here: “This summer I can #GoSleeveless because …” Tell us what makes Nivea Sensitive Whitening Deodorant perfect for going sleeveless this summer. 
    (Without an answer your entry is incomplete)
    5. All the entries will be validated thoroughly before the winners are declared. 

    6. Depending on your answers + overall participation in the giveaway the winners will be declared.

    7. The official hashtag, 
    #GoSleeveless has to be used in all your comments, Tweets & Facebook shares.
    8. For any queries or help fell free to contact me on a.fashionopolis@gmail.com


    After using Nivea Sensitive Whitening Deodorant, you too can #GoSleeveless just like Anushka.
    Giveaway ends on 6th June 2014, 11:59 P.M
    Get started!!! Tag, tweet and share. Spread the word. The more the merrier!!!

    Till then, tra-la,
         Amena!!

    Connect With Fashionopolis on FacebookTwitterPinterest, Bloglovin' & Subscribe
    Instagram: @a_fashionopolis
    email me- 
    a.fashionopolis@gmail.com





    Something New

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    “There are some things one can only achieve by a deliberate leap in the opposite direction.” ~ Franz Kafka

    Here’s a fact: I am creature of habit and comfort. I just am. Unlike others, I rarely like to step out of my comfort zone, try new thing or take risk. 
    Firstly, I take forever to find my comfort zone. Once I do find the winning combination, I hardly every step out of it.
    Somehow, in the last few years I have, against all my basic instincts, taken risks-some calculated and some not.  
    Anyone who knows me, has heard me crib about how 2014 hasn’t really been my year. And yet, it has been the one in which I have tried out many new things, visited place never been to before and overall done things that my friends refer to as ‘Non Amena-esque!’

     A few weeks ago I literally took, “a deliberate leap in the opposite direction” and tried out something that I have not done in my entire adult life.
     
    I finally decided to wear a dress! And, boy, was it a life altering experience or what!
    The classic body issues paired with ‘log kya kahenge’, have always been the biggest hurdles between my dress dreams and me.
    Even if I did get the confidence to wear one, there was always something off about the fit.
    However, all this changed when I finally found the courage to don this elegant Marks & Spencer embroidered floral dress from their summer 2014 collection. 

    What I really loved about the dress was its fit. Being a classic apple shape, finding a dress that suits my body type is very tricky. Imagine my happiness when I found the perfect dress. From fit to fabric to silhouette to length, it seems the dress was made just for me.
    The knee-length and the A-Line silhouette were ideal for me to me to flaunt my curves and assets without being too conscious about myself. 
    Being a tad bit sleeveless shy, I layered the dress with a cotton lace kaftan instead of a blazer or shrug. Added my trademark statement necklaces and finished the look off with contrasting fuchsia bow sandal.
    Since I was wearing a dress for the first time, I wanted to go with a classic English look that would be ideal for a garden party or a gallery opening or any semi-formal affair.
     If you wish to make the look more party friendly, swap the kaftan with a short sequin jacket, add a box clutch and you are all set for a date or fancy soiree.


    Since I was going with the theme of ‘something new’, I decided to try out the new L'Oreal Paris Colour Riche Moist Matte lipstick (Raspberry Syrup) and Super Liner Gelmatic Eye Pen (Deep Brown) from the L'Or Lumiere Cannes '14 Collection.
    The juicy pink raspberry shade was just the colour pop the look needed. Along with beautifully complementing the look, the lipstick shade also upped the glamour quotient by several notches.
    Every single shade in this collection is drool worthy. Created to suit different skin tones & moods, these lipsticks are exactly what you need to add a hint of drama and spice up your look. Available in 12 shades, there is one (or more) with your name written on it.
    I can't wait to try out the other shades in this collection, especially Lincoln Rose, the shade Aishwarya wore to Cannes, as well as Spring Rosette, Orange Power, Sheer Plum and Black Cherry.

    Like the lipsticks, the Gelmatic Eye Pens are available in 5 very interesting shades. Giving a skip to traditional black, you can choose between, blue, brown, gold, silver and turquoise. Personally, I would love to try out the Blue Force shade as well. Along with offering fun new colours to experiment with, these eye pens have amazing staying powers, irrespective of the heat and humidity. Does not smudge or run even on the most oily skin types. Throughly impressed.
    [Outfit Details: Embroidered Floral Dress, Cotton Lace Cover-Up Kaftan, Bow Sandals, Chocker Necklace, Pendant Necklace, Bracelet- c/o Marks and Spencer Spring Summer 2014 Collection.
    Make up Details: Lipstick: L'Oreal Paris Colour Riche Moist Matte-Raspberry Syrup Eyes: L'Oreal Paris Super Liner Gelmatic Pen-Deep Brown]

    I knew the look was well styled, but I was so not prepared for the sea of compliments that came my way. 

    Trust me, nothing boosts your confidence, ego and helps you in letting go of your inhibitions, quite like a healthy dose of compliments!

    I have always been an ardent fan of Marks & Spencer, but I am, forever grateful to them for helping me get over my dress fear and finally making me to try out something new!

    While I may continue to be a creature of habit and comfort and shy away from taking risks, I strongly believe, “Life isn’t about finding yourself. Life is about creating yourself.”

    What do you think of my new look? Share your views with me in the comment section.

    Till then, tra-la,
                Amena!!

    Connect With Fashionopolis on FacebookTwitterPinterest, Bloglovin' & Subscribe
    Instagram: @a_fashionopolis
    email me- 
    a.fashionopolis@gmail.com

    Lakmé Fashion Week Summer/Resort 2014 Top 10 Trends - Part II

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    Like I mentioned in Part I of my Lakmé Fashion Week Summer/Resort 2014 Top 10 Trends post, instead of a generic rundown of the collections I decided to highlight the top 10 trends seen at Lakmé Fashion Week Summer/Resort 2014.
    Here' is the second part of, Lakmé Fashion Week Summer/Resort 2014 Top 10 Trends.

    Trend VI: 90's Minimalism
    From the looks of it, fashion is still high on all things 90’s. However, this season punk and grunge have given way to the crisp, clean minimalism of the late ‘90s.
    Delicate spaghetti-strapped slip dresses made an appearance at Sailex and Nishka Lulla, while Dhruv and Nikhil Thampi opted to go with the season’s new minimalism in simple and structured suits and separates. 
     Trend VII: Drapes Du Jour
    The humble drapes have come a long way this season. While fashion week regularly gets its share of sarees and dhotis, this time round, designers have chosen to present the classic drapes in new avatars.
    From exotic saree gowns by Sonaakshi Raaj to Arpita Mehta’s dhoti pants to Karishma Jamwal’s funky cowl skirts, the traditional drapes have been modified and wrapped around in a variety of novel styles and silhouettes.
    Trend VIII: Make A Statement
    There is nothing that makes my heart beat faster than a pretty statement jewellery piece. This season of LFW was a bauble lovers dream come true. 
    While Preetika and Heeresh Zagjivan of Pretty Stoned tried to seduce us with their ‘Egyptian Princess’ inspired pieces, Nitya Arora’s jewellery collection for her Valliyan label took us on a whimsical journey, as her designs moved from reality to fantasy. And as much as Mrinalini Chandra insisted for us to ‘Please Have a Seat’, her cleverly crafted accessories had us jumping out of our seats in awe of these beauties.
     Trend IX: The New Motif
    Ever since quirky became mainstream, offbeat, non run-of-the-mill motifs have been making regular appearance. From cars to houses to anime to pretty much anything that catches a designer's fancy, the new motif is all about being different and making a statement.
    Seeking inspiration and finding it in the colours and motifs of Snakes and Ladders and Ludo, Digvijay Singh showed a whole new chic side of our beloved childhood board games. While Rixi Bhatia and Jayesh Sachdev of Quirkbox, choose to stay true to their quirky roots and continued to woe fashion denizens with their eccentric ‘Quirk-E-Sultanat’ collection. 
    Trend X: Metal On My Mind
    This season of LFW was crushing on all thing metallic- gold, silver, bronze, copper, gun metal- ever shade of metal known to man was welcomed with open arms. From Kommal Sood’s ‘Champagne Bubbles’ to Jyotsna Tiwari to Rajesh Pratap Singh’s ‘Illusion’, metallic made its glittery presence felt.

    Which of these Lakmé Fashion Week Summer/Resort 2014 trends has your name written on it?

    Do share your thoughts with me in the comment section.

    Till then, tra-la,
    Amena!!
    Connect With Fashionopolis on FacebookTwitterPinterest, Bloglovin' & Subscribe
    Instagram: @a_fashionopolis
    email me- 
    a.fashionopolis@gmail.com

    Shree Raj Mahal Jewellers India Couture Week 2014: Anju Modi and Rina Dhaka

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    It is a truth universally acknowledged, that Indian couture fashion is incomplete without statement Indian jewellery.
    When FDIC announced, that for this year's India Couture Week they were teaming up with Shree Raj Mahal Jewellers, one knew with certainty that this was a match made in couture heaven!
    From the past few days, Shree Raj Mahal Jewellers India Couture Week has taken over the fashion world.
    While every collection at ICW2014 is a masterpiece in its own way, these two collections, by Anju Modi and Rina Dhaka stole my heart.

    Known for her elegance, Anju Modi always finds the perfect balance between vintage and contemporary. Inspired by the painting of Ajanta-Ellora Caves, she presented her collection titled  ‘Manikarnika’- that reflects a woman of the past, reborn in the present.
    A rich colour palette of navy blue, old rose, grey blue, burgundy, sand and ruby were ideal to show case the new favourite silhouette, asymmetric kurta with dhoti and full sleeve blouses paired with high-waisted lehengas and saree.
    The embroidery was derived from the architecture and the paintings of the Ajanta-Ellora caves. 
    The entire collection beautifully interweaved classic Indian fabrics, embroidery, motifs and textures with contemporary silhouettes.
    Actress Kangana Ranaut was a vision in black as she turned showstopper for the designer and walked the runway in a black raw silk high-waisted lehenga paired with a boat neck long sleeve blouse.
    An essential adornment in Indian weddings for centuries, Anju Modi decided to accessories her collection with ethnic gold jewellery from Shree Raj Mahal Jewellers.
    What really caught my eye was how the designer had artistically styled neckpieces around the models’ hair, showing versatile and novel ways of styling Shree Raj Mahal Jewellers’ bridal pieces.
    Bridal chokers and kadas in innovative designs and earrings in traditional gold that showcased the skill of Indian craftsmanship were also seen.
    The jewellery included exclusive pieces that have been designed by Shree Raj Mahal Jewellers very own, designer extraordinaire and CEO Praveen Goel.

    Inspired by the gota patti work of Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh, Rina Dhaka, presented this traditional embroidery with a modern twist.
    Rina created her own style of gota patti using thin doris that were hemmed on surfaces like tinsel sheers and lace-like fabric, so that the garments are light and easy to carry.
    Along with gota work, other embroidery elements such as zardozi, ari, kamdani, lace and floral embroidery were set against a lace-like background, contrasted by Mughal animal paintings shown on fur-lined velvet capes. 
    Skirt saris, lehngas, shararas, paired with embroidered kurtis, cholis and capes were the dominating silhouettes of the collection. The collection also has a whole lot of separates; pieces that can be mixed and matched with other garments. Deep red, mustard, soft pink, and dull gold dominated the collection's colour palate.

    The showstoppers of the collection were actresses, Malaika Arora Khan, who looked stunning in a nude pink gota patti saree, and Nimrat Kaur.
    Rina chose a pearl theme contemporary look for her Shree Raj Mahal Jewellers India Couture Week 2014 show.
    Opting to pair her ensembles with exquisite nath, kalgi, toda and jadau pieces from Shree Raj Mahal Jewellers’ ‘Svara and Sondaraya’ collections.
    Meenakari and polki jewellery along with pearl earrings, bracelets and diamonds from the Sondaraya collections were just the perfect accessories for Rina Dhaka’s collection. 
    The jewellery showcased in this collection is a perfect amalgamation of traditional Indian craftsmanship and western design. Designer extraordinaire, Praveen Goel, CEO, Shree Raj Mahal Jewellers, has created these beautiful pieces.

    India Couture Week has been know to be a larger-than-life, extraordinaire affair. However, this year, with Shree Raj Mahal Jewellers teaming up with them, ICW2014 has taken Indian couture fashion to new heights by presenting the best of couture and jewellery under one room.

    With festive and wedding season round the corner, this year's Shree Raj Mahal Jewellers India Couture Week has something for everyone.

    Till then, tra-la,
    Amena!!
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    Fashionopolis Featured On Links À La Mode: IFB Weekly Roundup (May 22, 2014)

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    I am happy to share that Fashionopolis post 'Layered & Stacked With Accessorize' is featured on this week's Independent Fashion Bloggers Links A La Mode round-up. Along with Fashionopolis, please do check out all the other awesome blogs featured on this week's roundup.lalam0522

    Fashion Reality

    This week, it took me a long, long time to curate the links, not because of lack of quality, but because there were so many interesting topics to explore. Look Sharp Sconnie, let her facial hair grow to make a point about femininity and documented it beautifully. Vic Styles pondered if you wear the same clothes, can you be stylish? My Fashion S/ash Life found some remarkably stylish gents. And Pupuren discussed the phenomenon of photographing oneself, how one's face changes. (I know this from experience). We may put a face on for the digital world, but there are always a few brave enough to take off the mask.

    Links à la Mode: May 22



  • Cat Eyes & Skinny Jeans: No-Makeup Makeup


  • Fashion Trends and More: How High Is Too High?


  • Look Sharp, Sconnie: Man, I Feel Like a Man


  • My Fashion S/ash Life: He Got Style


  • Snippets With Latex: Fashion Blogger Problems


  • Storybook Apothecary: My Style Icon: Marion Cotillard


  • Wild Beauty World: Faking It


  • We Are Ready Made: The Juicy Resort Business

  • Want to be featured in Links à la Mode?
    1. Read the clarified rules and submit your links on this page: Links à la Mode.
    2. If your link was selected and you need this week’s code, visit this page: Links à la Mode Code.


    Till then, tra-la,
    Amena!!
    Connect With Fashionopolis on FacebookTwitterPinterest, Bloglovin' & Subscribe
    Instagram: @a_fashionopolis
    email me- 
    a.fashionopolis@gmail.com

    Fashionopolis Featured On Links À La Mode: IFB Weekly Roundup (July 24th 2014)

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    I am happy to share that Fashionopolis post 'Shree Raj Mahal Jewellers India Couture Week 2014: Anju Modi and Rina Dhaka' is featured on this week's Independent Fashion Bloggers Links A La Mode round-up.
    Along with Fashionopolis, please do check out all the other awesome blogs featured on this week's roundup.
    lalam0724

    Getting Ahead
    This week we're getting ahead of the trends by, you guessed it, indulging in hair accessories. Head scarves, headwear, heck, even jewelry. Maybe you're taking the lax look to a whole new level, and try to wear sweatpants to work? Oh yeah, there's that too! So, don't fall behind, read this week's fantastic roundup!


       Till then, tra-la,

    Amena!!
    Connect With Fashionopolis on FacebookTwitterPinterest, Bloglovin' & Subscribe
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    a.fashionopolis@gmail.com

    Paint it Black

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    Someone who has had a life long love affair with bold and bright colour and all things bling, black has been a distant love of mine. I have never doubted its slimming powers and timeless appeal, but when given a choice, I have mostly gone with colour over neutral shades.
    While black is not the ruling colour of my wardrobe, it is safe to say my wardrobe is not 100% devoid of black either.
    As much as I love colour, I think it is time for me to update my wardrobe with what I refer to as, ‘must-have blacks’. Not only is it a necessity but a much needed change in personal style as well.
    When I decided to pen down my black lust list, I came up with endless options. However, I finally managed to narrow it down to these 5 black beauties.
    Here's my lust list of 5 black things that I wish soon become mine! The hunt has begun.


    1. Classic black BORDER SAREE: I have always considered the classic black border saree an Indian alternative to the LBD. They both have that same ageless, timeless appeal. From a 16 year old girl to a 70-year-old grandmother, from a business meeting to a wedding reception and from petite to curvy, the black border saree complements women of all ages and sizes.
    It is one of those rare pieces that can easily be passed down from one generation to the next. A black border saree is not only a stylish pick but a wise investment as well.

    2. Quintessential am to pm TOTE: I am a major bag hoarder. You name it and I have a bag in that shape and colour in my collection. However, thanks to my colour obsession, I never really got around to investing in a black tote. Especially one that is ideal for any time of the day as well as multiple occasions. My idea of a quintessential A.M to P.M black tote is one that can be carried to a working brunch and dinner date and can be easily paired with Western and Indian wear. 

    3.The perfect jet black EYELINER: You think finding Mr.Right is hard? Try finding the perfect jet-black eyeliner (eye pencil/kajal) for oily skin. Now, that my dearies, is the real challenge!
    From pencil, liquid to gel, I have more than my share of black eyeliners, but I am yet to find that one eyeliner that does not smudge and run even on the most humid days and oiliest of oily skins. Throw in long lasting and I have literally found what I am looking for. Till the day I find my kind of perfect jet black eyeliner, I ain't going to stop looking!

    4. All eyes on me STATEMENT SUNGLASSES: From Jackie Kennedy to John Lennon, ever one had their signature sunglass frames. Mine are cat eyes. While I have managed to find a pair of regular cat eye frames, what I am really look for is, one of its kind, all eyes on me, black cat eye statement sunglasses.

    5. Dainty WATCH: Lost amidst the chunky metallic and big dial watch craze, I had forgotten how elegant a dainty black watch looks until recently I saw one of my fave actress flaunting her black watch. Since then, I have been looking for just the right black watch that is the perfect blend of style and class.

    Here's the thing-Along with these 5 being on the top of my lust list, these 5 pieces are fashion must-haves as well. Ladies, time to invest in these 5 black beauties.

    What do you think of my black lust list? Share your views with me in the comment section.

    Till then, tra-la,
           Amena!!
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    a.fashionopolis@gmail.com


    This post is a part of #WhatTheBlack activity at BlogAdda.com

    Express Yourself with #BedHeadThisIsMe

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    “To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment.” ~ Ralph Waldo Emerson

    Do you think fashion would have been the same if Mademoiselle Coco Chanel had decided to follow the rules set by society and her predecessors? Had she chosen to go with the flow, would she have still been a fashion icon? Who knows? Maybe yes, maybe no. 
    What we do know, is, she dared to be different. She decided to give a skip to norm and do things on her own terms. When everyone followed, she stood out and exhibited her individuality. She chose to express herself and make an identity for herself. And in doing so, she became a trendsetter and an inspiration to the world.

    It has been proven, time and again, those who dare to do things on their own term, are the ones who end up leaving a mark.
    Inspired by individuality, personal identity and self- expression, Bed Head by TIGI has come up with an inspiring new campaign called ‘This is Me’
    Through the #BedHeadThisisMe campaign and videos they aims to encourage people to acknowledge their true self. The campaign and video celebrates individuals who've taken on an offbeat career track and been successful in them. 


    The video features personalities like renowned hair stylist Savio John Pereira; psychedelic painter Sameer Hazari; pilot, surfer and skateboard maker Spandan Banerjee; fashion stylist Chandni Sareen; Imaad Shah and Saba Azad of the swing band duo Madboy/ Mink and poi (fire) dancer Sumaiya Sayed.
    As you can see, the video urges people to value their identity and individuality. The message is crystal clear- everyone is the star of a show that’s their own life and they are the only one in power to make or break it.
    Check out all the individual videos on Bedhead’s YouTube channel

    Staying true to the core theme of self-expression and individuality, the team of Bed Head by TIGI is hosting an exclusive, one of its kind contest on their Bed Head – This Is Me website.

    All you need to do is head to your fave salon, get your hair styled just the way you like it, and click a selfie with your hair stylist. Easy breezy!
    If you are wondering why you should participate, here’s the deal:
    Along with standing a chance to win BookMyShow vouchers, the number of likes your selfie gets increases your chance to win a trip and attend a music festival in Barcelona.
    That’s not all. With the intention of encouraging hair stylists in the country, Bed Head has decided, that the highest voted popular hair stylist would win an all-expense paid trip to London for training at the TIGI academy. 
    A complete win, win situation!
    Please Note: Terms & Conditions Apply

    Selfie lovers, what are you waiting for? Spread the word, book your salon appointment and get clicking today!

    Like these talented individuals, you too can choose to be different. Be a part of #BedHeadThisisMe campaign; showcase your individuality, personal identity and with the help of your hairstyle selfie show the world who you really are!

    Your time starts NOW! Your Hair. Your Way.

    Till then, tra-la,
           Amena!!
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    a.fashionopolis@gmail.com

    Styled With India Circus

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    You know, when you love something so much that you want to give it the very best of words to describe it. However, no matter how hard you try, you just cannot, simply because, there are not enough adjectives to describe it! While I have looked far and wide for the right words, the only way to describe Krsna Mehta’s creative brainchild, India Circus, is, an artistic, colourful celebration of all things India.

    Ever since I discovered India Circus I have been a major fan girl of the brand. From their quirky pop art motifs to their aesthetic play of multi-colours to how effortlessly they mix Mughal royalty and miniature paintings with modern styles.
    Beautifully blending an All-Indian palette with tastefully done kitsch, India Circus seeks to showcase the spirit of life in India, and transcribe this loud and lively experience into contemporary and sophisticated style. From beautiful cushions, luminescent lamps, elegant dining accessories, unique furniture pieces, chic apparels to stylish bags, India Circus has a lot to offer for various corners of your life.

    While know for being a popular home decor brand, last year when I won an India Circus Jalebi Riding umbrella through a Radio One contest, that is when I was introduced to their fashion accessory range. Ever since then I have wanted to get my hands on one of their vibrant fashion accessory.
    Luck happened when I instantly found not one, but two such beauties: City Fantastic Jhola Bag and Funky Transport Document Holder. Along with being extremely attractive, both pieces celebrate one of the biggest loves of my life-Mumbai!

    While I had gotten the jhola bag and document holder some time back, I needed the right occasion for my two new India Circus beauties to made their debut. What better place than India’s biggest fashion event- Lakmé Fashion Week Winter/Festive 2014 for me to flaunt my latest accessories!

    Whether you are on-the-go or stepping out for a casual meeting, this India Circus City Fantastic Jhola Bag is the ideal everyday tote. Sturdy enough to carry the weight of all your goodies and stylish too, making it easy to pair it with just about anything.

    Bag: India Circus City Fantastic Jhola Bag; Dress: AND; Sandals: c/o Steve Madden India; Necklace: Accessorize India; Makeup: c/o Lakmé Absolute


    I decided to up the game when it came to styling India Circus Funky Transport Document Holder. Instead of using it as a document holder, I opted to style it as an oversized statement clutch. 
    Before planning to style it in this manner, I thought the size maybe too big to pass it off as an oversized clutch and it may be a tad bit inconvenient, however, the size was not an issue or hindrance and I could easily carry the document folder as an oversized statement clutch.

    Oversized Statement Clutch: India Circus Funky Transport Document Holder; Tunic: Global Desi; Leggings: Marks & Spencer; Loaders: Forever 21; Lips: L'Oréal Paris Color Riche Moist Matte Lipstick Orange Power



    Let me tell you, India Circus pieces are serious compliment magnet. Due to the brand’s popularity and trademark designs, it is easy to spot an India Circus piece from a mile away. Literally, everyone who saw me with it instantly noticed that I am carrying an India Circus piece.
    Incase you don't already know, India Circus now ship worldwide to over 200+ countries. 

    Like me, are you also a major fan of all things India Circus? Which range of India Circus do you most love the most? Share your views and thoughts with me in the comment section.

    Till then, tra-la,
        Amena!!
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    Lakmé Fashion Week Winter/Festive 2014: Different Strokes For Different Folks! (A Fashion Industry Overview)

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    Twice a year - in pleasantly warm March and then again in rainy August- Mumbai’s streets overflow with fashion editors, stylists and buyers alike. For summer/resort as well as winter/festive collections, Lakmé Fashion Week showcases India’s best fashion talent to the world. Both big name designers and up-and-coming talents are found under one roof impressing the fashion denizens with their latest offerings.

    Between shows and while unwinding at the LFW Apartment, I had a chance to chat-up with some of the brightest and rising names of Indian fashion industry. While we all agreed on some points, it was very interesting to see how differently each individual views the same season of fashion week.
    With everyone having his or her point of view about it, here is what these 5 fashion mavens and mavericks have to say about Lakmé Fashion Week Winter/Festive 2014.

    MANISH MISHRA; Principal Features Writer, DNA After Hrs
    Hands down one of the best dressed men at Lakmé Fashion Week and in the fashion industry, Manish’s astute observations and keen understanding of fashion makes him one of the most sought-after and respected writer of the fashion world.

    Manish’s Top 5 Lakmé Fashion Week Winter/Festive 2014 collections
    Masaba for prints, Amit Aggarwal for reinterpretation of futuristic bride, Anju Modi for easy and modern bridal line, Payal Singhal for prints and evening separates, Shruti Sancheti for beautiful use of textiles and colour blocking.

    Manish's Winter/Festive 2014 Trend Prediction: Sporty chic, which has been prevalent for the last few seasons continued with zippers, lettering and surface texturing finding favour in most collections.

    Along with being the Principal Features Writer for DNA After Hrs, Manish is also a blogger. His blog, Made To Pleasure, is a fashion and luxury blog.

    SANAA KHAN; Fashion Stylist, Harpers Bazaar India
    While India gets to see her creative genius every month through the glossy pages of Harpers Bazaar, I was lucky enough to witness Sanaa’s impressive styling skills firsthand. Not only does she know how to style others well, she also managed to totally kill it all the days with her stellar streetstyle chic looks.

    Sanaa’s Top 5 Lakmé Fashion Week Winter/Festive 2014 collections
    Sanaa's Winter/Festive 2014 Trend Prediction: Sports Luxe, Metallics, Chunky Footwear, Vibrant Colors and Androgyny

    ANIKET SATAM; Creative Director, label ANIKET
    Designer, dreamer, diva- Aniket (ex Gen Next designer) is blessed with a sense of humour that rivals Oscar Wilde and designing skills that would make Charles Worth proud. A fine blend of fierce and fashion forward, Aniket-the man and the label- is the one to watch out for.

    Aniket’s Top 5 Lakmé Fashion Week Winter/Festive 2014 collections
    Ka sha by Karishma Shahani Khan, no one does 'organic-cool' like her. Loved the mixing of rustic hand knits with clam dyed kaleidoscopic, functional footwear with hand-embroidered texture. Anavilla by Anavilla Misra, for its modern yet modest, rural meets punk. Frou Frou by Archana Rao, her foolproof equation of part masculine, part European meets part vintage and part delicate never fails to surprise. Pinnacle by Shruti Sancheti, knows how to upgrade and update the classic heirlooms. Keeping the soul of the textile, it's all about easy chic with Desi twist. Gaga by Tanya Sharma, for its kitsch pop in wearable form. Mrinalini Chandra’s ‘Shakuntala’ fave accessory collection.

    Aniket's Winter/Festive 2014 Trend Prediction:
    Crop tops with Churi-skirt / Churi- Culottes: This is the new anarkali with a sassy midriff quotient. 
    Red Alert: From heart racing fire engine to deep seductive ox bloods, candied rose to intense blood, time to put on the ‘suhagan’ mode and surrender to the colour of love and lust!
    Heirloom High Street: It’s all about sporting rich textile heritage with a relaxed modern treatment. Silk Ikat jackets, zardozi on tee shirts, luxe jamewar trousers, tie and dye turbans, time to treat couture textile with causal coolness.
    Chunky-Express: As the festive attire gets minimal, it's time to pull those chunky statements costume jewels out. From Suhani’s tribalesque macro floral pieces to outhouse Mohawk ‘Mangtikka’, this season is all about channeling that latent warrior goddess.
    Salt and Pepper: The monochrome magic spell of last spring still continues over to winter. Blocks of extreme black and white have replaced the optical graphics. Layer it as Gen Next's Dhruv Kapoor or go chandelier chic like Farah Sanjana.

    Along with being the Creative Director for his label, Aniket is also a freelance writer and educationist.

    RADHIKA DHAWAN; Founder, Fashionably Connected and Radhika Dhawan Consultancy
    This no-nonsense, soft-spoken businesswoman knows her fashion and, more importantly, she knows how to turn it into a lucrative business. A pioneer, a woman way ahead of her time, when it comes to fashion, Radhika is gifted with Midas’ touch.

    Radhika’s Top 5 Lakmé Fashion Week Winter/Festive 2014 collections
    Anju Modi for old world charm with refreshing silhouettes. Surendri by Yogesh Chaudhary for the blooming sunflower motif, the bright colours and wearable feminine silhouettes. Easton Pearson for a mix of quirky glamour, colours, and their strong emphasis on Indian and African crafts. Quirk Box for whimsical prints, the colours and silhouettes. Raw Mango by Sanjay Garg for beautiful display of traditional crafts in jeweled tone colours. 
    Along with these, Huemn, Ilk, Frou Frou by Archana Rao and Debashri Samanta were also some of Radhika’s fave collections.

    Radhika's Winter/Festive 2014 Trend Prediction:
    Below Knee A-Line Skirt: As seen at Archana Rao, Urvashi Joneja, Quirk Box, Surendri and Karishma Shahani's collections. Skirts are here to stay and the longer the length, the more appealing they are for the cooler weathers.
    Winter Floral: Flowers were blooming all the days and were seen at Varun Bahl, Arunima Majhi, Neha Aggarwal, Yogesh Chaudary. Even Frou Frou and Huemn had floral appliqués sprinkled on their garments. 
    Checks: Checks ruled the ramp at Karishma Shahani, Pratima Pandey and Shruti Sancheti.
    Nude Hues: For both apparel and beauty, nude hues were very apparent. 
    Prints: Aartivijay Gupta with her Victorian prints, art meets fashion brand Quirk Box with their whimsical Bombay Balloons, Surendri by Yogesh Chaudary with the happy sunflowers, Payal Singhal's chintz prints, Debashri Samanta with the fish, Farah Sanjana with the chandelier motif, prints made their presences felt this season as well.

    PURUSHU ARIE; Fashion Blogger, www.purushu.com
    Purushu represents the contemporary, digitally savvy side of fashion. From his impeccable sense of aesthetics and knowledge of fashion, to the way he expresses it with words and his illustrations, Purushu is one of the brightest stars of Indian fashion blogosphere.

    Purushu’s Top 5 Lakmé Fashion Week Winter/Festive 2014 collections
    Huemn for minimal, contemporary and quirky designs. Asa Kazingmei for finishing of leather and treatment of rivets. Shantanu & Nikhil, favourite evening/red carpet ensembles. Anju Modi can never get the basic aesthetics wrong. Anavila Misra for the incredible handlooms & ajrak dyeing methods.
    Along with these, Antar-Agni by Ujjawal Dubey, Gaurang, Sashikant Naidu and Aartivijay Gupta also are some of Purushu's fave collection

    Purushu's Winter/Festive 2014 Trend Prediction:
    Floral: Florals were seen at almost every other show either in the form of a print or 
    appliqué or embroidery motif or laser cut work etc. 
    Metallics: Metallics in the form of embellishment and hues. Asa Kazingmei and Armaan & Aiman used it interestingly in the form of rivets.
    Sportwear Influences: As seen in the shows of Tanya Sharma, Farah Sanjana, Huemn
    Traditional Weaves: Gaurang showcased his collection full of rich brocades. Anavila Mishra's collection titled Mohenjo Daro featured rustic handloom weaves. 
    Vintage Prints: As seen at Aartivijay Gupta, Huemn.

    Along with being a fashion blogger, Purushu is also a designer, illustrator & stylist.


    Now that you know what caught the attention of these 5 fashion connoisseurs, whose collection picks and and trend prediction do you most connect with? And what do you think of Lakmé Fashion Week Winter/Festive 2014?
    Share your views in the comment section.

    Till then, tra-la

    Amena!!
    Connect With Fashionopolis on FacebookTwitterPinterest, Bloglovin' & Subscribe
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    a.fashionopolis@gmail.com

    Lakmé Fashion Week Winter/Festive 2014: Trend Report

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    Attention, fashion lovers! It's time to get acquainted with the key trends of the season.
    From the latest must-have print and pattern to the season’s IT colour, here are 5 trends that stood out at Lakmé Fashion Week Winter/Festive 2014.









    Which of these Lakmé Fashion Week Winter/Festive 2014 trends are you looking forward to try outShare your thoughts with me in the comment section.

    Till then, tra-la
    Amena!!
    Connect With Fashionopolis on FacebookTwitterPinterest, Bloglovin' & Subscribe
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    a.fashionopolis@gmail.com

    My Body, My Rules; #ButtOut!

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    It is safe to say we live in a society that constantly questions its women. From the clothes we wear to the colour of our skin to the choices we make, everything is forever being scrutinized. 
    However, if there is one thing, we, as a society, have mastered, it is the art of body shaming. 
    What really is body shaming? It is labeling an individual with inappropriate negative terms and statements, based on the their weight, size and body type. 
    Contrary to popular belief, it is not just ‘fat’ and ‘curvy’ women who constantly get mocked and shamed. Women of all sizes, shapes and body structure have to deal with it. 
    Since childhood we are made to believe in stereotypes, ‘If you become fat, no one will marry you!’ or ‘You’re so thin, you look unhealthy and weak!’

    Does a woman have no other identity beyond her physical appearance? When will people understand that an individual's identity is more than their body shape!
    It is about time we stop shaming the body and start shaming the minds that mock it. It is not the body that needs shaming but the minds that constantly judge and labels it.
    It is time to tell the society, my body, my rules; you need to butt out
    Source
    Like me, many women across age groups, professions and social structures have had to deal with their share of body shaming. 
    I asked a few women their personal experience with body shaming and how they handled it.

    No one equates marriage and weight quite like the Indian society. Whether you are thin or fat, tall or short, something about your body will always be a negative marker.
    “Nobody is going to marry you with that type of a body!” Like most of us, time and again, Bhavna has been told the same. 

    People often equate beauty, personality and likability to being a certain body type, and very little to do with the person itself. 
    One such individual dared to tell Ketaki: “This room is full of pretty girls, and Ketaki!”

    Body shaming does not start with strangers. It starts with people we know and from a young age.
    Teasingly called ‘fatty’ by friends and family to motivate her to get back in shape and for better health as well, a family member once told Aishwarya, “you better get in shape by the time of the wedding; you need to look hot and attractive enough.”

    Parampara spent her childhood and early teens as a chubby kid who often got subjected to taunts like, “Aye Moti! Thoda kam khaaya, bhains banti jaa rahi hai tu!” 
    Now that she has lost her weight; due to her current lifestyle, the same people ask her mother that does she not feed her daughter well or pester Parampara with comments like, “you’re heading towards anorexia due to rigorous dieting!”
    Having been on the receiving sides of both ends, Parampara has learnt how to deal with her critics and has the perfect answer to shut them up.

    If weight is the reason for women not getting married, then it has to also be the reason for a marriage not working out, right?
    After her first marriage fell apart, an acquaintance chose to enlighten Pratishtha with these words: “If you had maintained your weight, he wouldn’t have had to look at other women.” 

    It is no secret, that if there is one industry that has unrealistic body expectations, it is the fashion world.
    A photographer, on multiple occasions told Roxanne, what most personal style bloggers have been hinted/ told at one point or another, “I'll do your portfolio, just lose 5-7 kilos, the pictures will come out nicer.” This was told to her when she weighed 50kgs!

    While people can’t get enough of telling ‘fat’ girls to hit the gym, the minute they see someone like Tazeen at a gym, working out, comments like, You gym? You run? Hahaha, seriously just go home and eat food” come flying her way.


    Take it from someone who has struggled her entire adult life with body issues, body shaming only makes matters worse. You are helping no one by labelling them with derogative terms. 
    Every possible body shaming insult has been thrown my way. From being told, “with that body, you are never going to make it in fashion” to “you are never going to find someone to marry” to “have you even tried losing weight? It is not that difficult, trust me! Celebrities lose weight all the time.”

    It has taken me a good amount of time to come to terms with my body. I now have one reply for every single body shaming comment.
    To be very honest, not everyone who makes a body related comment is trying to shame it, but there is a very, very thin line between healthy, constructive criticism and blatant body shaming.
    Whether it is for vanity or health reasons, it should be the individuals, and that individual’s alone, choice to either lose or gain weight.

    This post is a part of Jealous 21's #ButtOut campaign. The campaign is all about breaking age old stereotypes and celebrating women the way they are.
    Honestly, we can't really celebrate women without ending body shaming. One on hand you tell women to accept who they are and on the other hand you constantly shame them for what they look like.

    Society needs to realise that the way a woman looks, her physical appearance and her body alone do not make her who she is. There is so much more to her than meets the eye.

    Till then, tra-la
    Amena!!
    Connect With Fashionopolis on FacebookTwitterPinterest, Bloglovin' & Subscribe
    Instagram: @a_fashionopolis
    email me- 
    a.fashionopolis@gmail.com

    Fashionopolis Featured On Links À La Mode: IFB Weekly Roundup (November 6th 2014)

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    I am happy to share that Fashionopolis post 'My Body, My Rules, #ButtOut' is featured on this week's Independent Fashion Bloggers Links A La Mode round-up.
    Along with Fashionopolis, please do check out all the other awesome blogs featured on this week's roundup.


    Cents & Sensibility
    Now that Halloween is over, and we’re in full holiday mode, we can all relax a little. Who are we kidding? There is so much to do! Well, even when the “to do” lists grow longer than Santa’s naughty list, we can still at least look put together. This week we take a look at the sensible side of fashion. What do we really want to wear?

    Links à la Mode: November 6th

    Burgundy Whispers: Night Chic
    Chic & Defined: Airpot Chic
    Inspirations & Celebrations: Fashion Bloggers Fall Style Trends
    It Takes Two to Fashion: Lingerie Illustrations
    Mode Valentina: The Pencil Skirt
    Sheela Writes: Project Runway: On Losing Graciously
    The Trendy Techie: Startup Spotlight: MeU, A Versatile Wearable Display
    TLV Birdie: Fall Mood
    We Are Ready Made: La Belle Dame Sans Merci
    Wild Beauty World: Book Review: Toss The Gloss

    SPONSOR: Shopbop 10 Corso, MZ Wallace, Faribault, Alex von Furstenberg, Tid Watches, Muttonhead,  Snow Peak, Rifle Paper, Misfit, Madewell Bags & RB Standard Issue

     Till then, tra-la,
    Amena!!
    Connect With Fashionopolis on FacebookTwitterPinterest, Bloglovin' & Subscribe
    Instagram: @a_fashionopolis
    email me- 
    a.fashionopolis@gmail.com

    Celebrating Bloggers & Life Outside The Cubicle

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    There is a very famous quote that does the rounds on Pinterest: “Your dream job does not exist. You must create it.” 
    Since the moment I have seen it, I know it was written for people like me.

    As much as we all like to be creating our dream jobs, there is a certain set of people, know as bloggers, who have not only crafted their dream job, but have also made it into a successful business. 
    From Perez Hilton to Miss Malini and from Bryanboy to Leandra Medine (Man Repeller), these new age self-made men and women have managed to make a career and life outside the cubicle.
    As the blogging industry gets bigger and better, the blogger is often seen as the new age role model; an aspirational figure who is inspiring a generation to have it all. Most importantly, the blogger is breaking the age-old dilemma of dream job vs. real job. Instead, the blogger encourages people to pursue their passion and make it their dream job.

    As a fashion and lifestyle blogger who is part of the thriving blogging community, I have always wanted to do a post about my fellow bloggers from across genres.  
    Scullers ‘This Is Life’ campaign celebrating life outside the work space seemed liked the perfect opportunity to do a post featuring few of my favourite bloggers who have managed to make a career and life outside the cubicle pursuing their passion and living their dreams.

    Meet Shreya Kalra, the uber-stylish girl from the blog For The Love Of Fashion And Other Things.
    A lawyer by education, Shreya is a Fashion Content Writer at Creative Marketing Fix.
    Tell us about For The Love Of Fashion And Other Things?
    My blog is all encompassing. It moves from fashion to lifestyle and women centric issues. Primarily about my personal style, I also cover trend reports, a little bit of beauty, books and social issues.

    Why do you blog? 
    It started off as collating my outfit ideas and style inspirations on a digital platform, which is now so much more than just that. It is my nook to write as I wish for as long as I wish and to style outfits just the way I like them, without any other concerns.

    What do you love most about blogging and working outside the cubicle?
    It is extremely humbling when people you look up to appreciate your work and more than that, I personally feel flattered when I run into readers who talk about my blog as passionately as I feel about it. Of course, being approached for fun collaborations is an added bonus.

    Here's the story of Dakshin Adyanthaya and how his blog Bhooka Janta (which he co-owns with Pranali Punwatkar and Eshaan Mathur) came to be.
    A food at heart and an explorer in spirit, Dakshin is a Social Media Team Lead in a digital advertising company called iProspect Communicate 2.
    What exactly is Bhooka Janta all about?
    Bhooka Janta is a food blog and we cover everything from reviews to recipes to features. In 18 months, Bhooka Janta has had a burger in BURGS named after it, been featured on the show Highway On My Plate Hills with Rocky & Mayur, won the runner's up award for the best Group Blog at IFBA 2013, has its recommendations in the Times Food Guide and more.

    Why do you blog? 
    There are three ways to know about different countries: One by its people, two by actually travelling there and three by food. 
    The love for exploring new cuisines and also informing other, led us to blog about it.

    What do you love most about blogging and working outside the cubicle?
    Connecting with people, understanding their taste and recommending them the best options in the city. It feels great when people read your blog, go by your recommendations and finally have a smile of their face when they love the food you have recommended. All this and plus the creative freedom you get to execute your ideas which might not be the case when you work in a cubicle.

    Somewhere between making topics trend on Twitter and trying out the latest shade of red lipstick, Anu Menon’s Musings of A Bombay Girl was born.
    Anu spends her days as a Digital Strategist- Outreach Specialist with DigitasLBi.
    Introduce us to Musings of A Bombay Girl?
    I've always been passionate about writing and my blog is an extension of myself. I blog about beauty, make up, food, short stories and poems. 

    Why do you blog? 
    Musings of A Bombay Girl started of as a poetry and short story blog. As I started discovering make up and beauty, I felt the urge to share it with my readers who have been reading and supporting my poems. I was pleasantly surprised when my posts were well received. My readers’ comments and feedback made me explore food as well. 

    What do you love most about blogging and working outside the cubicle?
    It gives me immense happiness when my readers share with me how useful they found my blog. They value my opinion and I directly or indirectly influence their views. The sheer fact of knowing that people look up to your blog gives me a high sense of responsibility. I learn and unlearn everyday. Each day is a unique experience.

    Fondly referred to as the Grooming Guru, Riaan George of Urban Eye, is famous for three things-his impeccable style, his immaculate manners and his lifelong love affair with aviation.  
    Man of many talents, Riaan is a Luxury Journalist, Magazine Editor and runs a weekend language school. 
    At Urban Eye you will find?
     My three passions: Menswear, luxury travel and aviation. 

    Why do you blog? 
    My regular job as a journalist requires me to be far more serious about my approach to content, researching features, quoting people, statistics etc. Blogging helps me to lighten things up. Write or post on social media about my favourite things in life - fashion, airplanes and luxury travel. Moreover, it helps me add a personal touch to what I post. My personal style is brought forth. 

    What do you love most about blogging and working outside the cubicle?
    It is always so fulfilling and rewarding when men ask for my opinion on fashion, or even when some of my female friends take tips from me when shopping for their partners. I also love when people ask me for travel tips. It makes me feel like I am doing a good job. 

    On Twitter everyone knows her as the sassy Caramel Wings, but Ashrita Chinchankar is many things- a commercial pilot (on the job hunt as of now), a pastry chef and travel enthusiast being some of them.
    Share with us Caramel Wings’ journey.
    I bake custom cakes and cookies, and I write about what is new in the world of food. I have had the chance to travel a bit around the world and I truly believe that the window to any new city and their culture is via food. With my day job including extensive travel and my passion for writing I hope to one day bring to my readers the perfect mix between travel, lifestyle and gastronomical delight, and every single day I spend is spent getting closer to my dream! 

    Why do you blog? 
    I started my blog as a diary for myself, but it grew into so much more; with all the nurturing it got from the readers. Once I knew that people out there are listening, it automatically made me want to write more often. 

    What do you love most about blogging and working outside the cubicle?
    Honestly, the best part is to be able to stay connected all the time. Whether I am on the go or multitasking, I can always access/update my blog. For baking I receive all orders via social media and being connected helps manage my content on various platforms all at once! 

    By doing what they love, this is how these talented bloggers celebrate their life outside the cubicle. Your turn to share the same.
    Head over to Scullers This Is Life Facebook page and celebrate life with them. Post your pictures and tag #ScullersThisIsLife. The person with the highest number of SHARES (for a particular picture) will win Scullers gift vouchers.
     Till then, tra-la,
    Amena!!
    Connect With Fashionopolis on FacebookTwitterPinterest, Bloglovin' & Subscribe
    Instagram: @a_fashionopolis
    email me- 
    a.fashionopolis@gmail.com

    5 Must Have Statement Accessories

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    Ladies, we have reached that time of the year where you either go crazy broke shopping for new outfits or drive yourself nuts repeating the same words over and over again: “I have nothing to wear!”
    Times like these you have to stop, and follow the oldest styling cliché - when in doubt, ACCESSORIZE!
    Trust me, nothing changes the look of an outfit quite like accessories. If you have mastered the art of accessorising you can confidently wear the same outfit again and again without any worries.

    While one can never really have enough accessories; there are a few timeless statement pieces that every woman must have in her wardrobe. Along with being fashion must haves; these accessories pieces are also wise fashion investments. 

    5 Must Have Statement Accessories (ever woman should own).
    1. Chic Cuff that can be paired with anything
    2.Multi-colour Jewelled Necklace
    3. Sparkly Drop Earrings 
    4. An Embellished Clutch that can work with multiple outfits
    5. Cocktail Ring
    [Images Via Pinterest]
    From red carpet to street style, these 5 pieces have been making their appearance all over fashion town. 
    No more restricted to any one particular season or time frame, all of these pieces can easily be worn year long.

    What really makes these 5 statement accessory pieces a must have, is, their versatility. Each piece can easily be worn to a number of occasions and events. The flexibility of these pieces makes it easy to pair then with Indian wear, Western wear or fusion wear. The best part is, unlike clothes, these pieces complement most body types and can be worn by women of different shapes and sizes.

    When it comes to accessories, there is only one name that comes the mind: Accessorize.
    No one has better baubles, jewels and statement accessories quite like Accessorize
    With the current festive and wedding season in full swing, it is time to stock up on these 5 beauties.

    [All the above products are from Accessorize India's Autumn-Winter 2013 collection]
    1. Chic CUFF that can be paired with anything: Just like we have that one shade of lipstick or pair of shoes that matches with everything, cuff is one statement accessory that can be paired with literally anything.
    You can easily add it to an arm party or wear it by itself, pair it with a LBD or a silk saree, flaunt it on a date or to a business meeting, cuff is one of those flexible pieces that works well with any look and style. 


    2. Multi-colour JEWELLED NECKLACE: Colourful statement necklace have been a part of Indian wardrobe since time immemorial. With the world of fashion finally catching-up with this fabulous trend, a multi-colour jewelled necklace is not just a must have, but a much needed statement accessory.
    Depending on your personal aesthetics one can select a bright and bold neon piece or a subtle one in jewel or neutral tones. No matter what your personal preference is, there is a statement necklace with a woman’s name written on it.

    3. Sparkly DROP EARRINGS: Somewhere between the studs and long chandeliers, one can find the very underrated drop earrings. The drop earrings are a great alternative from those who want earrings that are not very long nor too short. Plus, the length of the drop earrings gives it an air of classy while the sparkly stones add a hint of sexy.
    The beauty of a drop earring is, it can easily be worn with the hair tied up or let loose, making it a chic and wise investment.

    4. An EMBELLISHED CLUTCH that can work with multiple outfits: For those not too confident about pulling off or carrying a bling look, an embellished clutch is just what you need. Along with being compact and convenient, it lets you flaunt some bling without actually wearing it.
    Invest in a metallic or neutral colour one that works with both, Indian and Western wear as well as can be styled with different looks and silhouettes.

    5. Cocktail Ring: The cocktail ring is the ‘cherry on top’ version of accessories. No matter how complete a look is, add an eye catching cocktail ring and the look’s glam quotients goes up by several notches. 
    Even those who shy away from other statement accessories, are easily seduced by the allure of a cocktail ring.

    What are your 5 Must Have Statement Accessories? Share your views with me in the comment section.

    Till then, tra-la,
     Amena!!
    Connect With Fashionopolis on 
    FacebookTwitterPinterest, Bloglovin' & Subscribe
    Instagram: @a_fashionopolis
    email me- 
    a.fashionopolis@gmail.com


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