Fashion

BOLLYWOOD OPTS FOR SUSTAINABLE FESTIVE WEAR  As the wave of the pandemic surges, so does the need for sustainable fashion. But is conscious fashion really ‘fashion’ if it ends up looking drab? Lucky for us, with the onset of the festive season, Sukriti & Aakriti showcase their take on sustainability in a spectrum of spectacular shades, immaculate embroideries and enduring silhouettes! Popular trendsetters and Bollywood celebrities put their own unique spin on the label’s mesmerizing ensembles by styling them with panache. Scroll through these extraordinary looks to witness luxury taking the shape of sustainable and fashionable comfort wear.   SASSY SCALLOPS The subtle trend of scallop hems, trims and embellishments is slowly making its way into our traditional wardrobes, thanks to designers Sukriti & Aakriti Grover. For those of us obsessing over scallops in traditional fashion, the label’s collections are a delight! Solid colours with tone-on-tone embroidery or contrasting scallops forge a unique take on conventional ethnic-wear. Minimalists like Sonakshi Sinha, Nupur Sanon, Disha Patani and Ananya Pandey flaunt dainty mirror-work and intricate gota threadwork on opulent fabrics with sassy scallop hems as seen above!   FLORAL BOHEMIA What could be better than florals for spring? Well, neo-phulkari for weddings! Take a peek at Sukriti & Aakriti ‘s collection and decide for yourselves as major B-town trendsetters Kriti Sanon, Radhika Madan, Nupur Sanon and Aaparshakti exhibit these effortlessly! From rose and pistachio to powder blue and pinks, pastel shades are a refreshing take on any traditional ensemble. Outfits that have us swooning over festive wear are Sukriti & Aakriti ‘s floral embroideries on timeless ivories. A major plus? This bohemian take on the craft of phulkari is amenable for every wedding festivity.   MOODY MONOTONES The understated sophistication and intrigue that black brings to traditional ensembles cannot be stressed enough! But when moody monotones of blacks, midnight blues and greys are amalgamated with silver mirror-work, colourful phulkari and gold gota, it adds that much needed edginess that feeds the soul of the experimental fashion enthusiasts. Fashionistas Mouni Roy, Pragya Jaiswal and Alia Bhat have their fashion game on point as they showcase the versatility of Sukriti & Aakriti ‘s outstanding creativity! STRIPES TEASE What makes stripes an all time favourite print for all age groups is the sheer versatility of the trend. As Sukriti & Aakriti delve into traditional handicrafts and display stripes in the form of gota embroidery, we are left in complete awe of their creativity! Perky B-towners Radhika Madan, Tamannaah Bhatia and Surveen Chawla make stripes work wonderfully in their own unique style, while keeping the overall look natural and making a statement with stripes! Available exclusively on: https://sukritiandaakriti.com/ Price ranging 30,000 INR onwards  

In 2021, the ethnic fashion trend is ready to take a new turn. Fashion is cyclical, and what was old will almost certainly become new again. No matter how much we love wearing and flaunting western outfits, ethnic Indian clothes always hold a special place in our hearts. In this summer we can try various styles to look cool and trendy. Style a ghagra with a long kurta to create a chic silhouette or swap dupattas between suit sets to give your outfit a new feel. Try adding some twists and accessories to your Western and Indian ensemble to add that cool glam. Regular Salwar suits are all about creating the maximum impact with minimum effort. Pair your salwarkurtas with dhoti, draped, or cowl pants. Even experiment with various styles of top wear that gel well with your dhoti pants and join the trend setters’ fashion parade. When it comes to accessories, you must always have some pieces of oxidized jewelry that can be worn as staples with your ethnic wear. Try the trendiest versions of kurti with rolled up sleeves, bold collars and truncated shirt style. Add printed fabric, for that fabulous look in summer season. Fabric you can look for are Cotton, chiffon, Georgette, linen. We can go with different variations with cotton fabric like long maxi dress, culottes and kaftans. Try floral print jumpsuits with bold belts for that bossy look Wear something which is comfortable yet classy stylish and flowy. Will discuss on various type of shades we can wear during day and in evening events in my next blog. Stay tuned!!

The fashion industry is one, which is supposed to set trends for a lot of other industries. Today’s fashion brands are slowly seen adopting sustainable practices, as the fashion industry has a massive environmental impact. Fashion designers as well as the critics have started keeping a track whether the clothes we wear are environment friendly.   Fashion is taken seriously by everybody and people have now started talking about it at a different level. Lot of people are ready to join the global environment concern to clench into the transformation towards sustainable fashion. It is not just about the use of natural elements while manufacturing, but till the end product is out. The sustainable fashion involves procedures marked by innovations that may be used for increasing the efficiency of processes.   A lot of consumers are also getting vegan and awareness about it is also seen at a rise. It is a new trend seen popping up. More and more vegan clothing retailers are seen online and also some of the existing retailers are offering up vegan alternatives to gothic leather jackets, walking boots and many more. People who were hardcore meat lovers have now started going vegan. This is not restricted to the food anymore; people are making it a part of their lifestyle. Hence, this includes the clothes as well as other accessories like bags, jewellery etc.   Due to this, it is observed that fashion enthusiasts are going at a different level completely that is why we will see more elements that are pure and driven by nature used in manufacturing the clothes.  There will be use of harmonious color palette, traditional artesian techniques usage that will be seen coming back in a strong way. Natural materials like banana fiber, malbari, bamboo, organic jute, organic linen, cotton, wool, silk, hemp, or linen are being given due importance.   It is important to come out of the digital world and think about fashion. There can be a lot of value added in the old world charm, traditional techniques in that era that was around 20- 25 years back. The artisan community around the world will get a lot of inspiration and encouragement if the fashion industry goes the eco – friendly way. The support these people will get will uplift the society in general. Not only the big brands, but the medium brands are also using a lot of methods to make themselves eco – friendly. Brands are following a lot of principles like becoming transparent and flexible in the work culture. Manufactures are sustainably sourcing out their raw material also not just the final product but also everything that goes in the product is eco- friendly. A lot of recycling, upcycling is done. Using a lot of natural dyes, avoiding chemicals is done at a large scale which means indirectly being socially responsible. Having an eco- friendly certificate is considered important now.   “Eco- centric fashion will be inspired by trends like neutral color plate, experimental salivates and more easy going wardrobes”, said aptly Ms Benita ViraSahani (Designer/Co-founder of Studio CASA 9).  She added, this is not just a fad for sure, it is definitely the future, and it will affect the masses in the long run for sure. In fact by 2020 it is said that 40 per cent of all consumers will be the youth so will be going all out for sustainable fashion a way of life.   Going for natural clothing is affordable and completely ethical if you know where to look for the same. The best thing is that a lot of brands are already using alternatives to leather, fur and wool. Not only the fashion designers but also the accessory designers are seen joining hands in this trend. Like shoes, jewellery is seen more in the form of paper, jute, wood, and linen is coming back in fashion. Getting back to basics is going to be the next fashion trend.

No matter how intimidating it is to style print on print, it definitely sparks your inner Carrie Bradshaw! As designers venture into the space of unconventional prints on the runway, it eventually trickles down and is widely experimented by all fashion enthusiasts alike.   We take the liberty of narrowing down some of the most sought after #PrintOnPrint trends by taking cues from ensembles by popular designer labels Gulabo Jaipur, Kunal Anil Tanna, Ridhi Mehra, Sukriti & Aakriti, Vedika M and Zwaan.  Each of them is known for creating unique and timeless ensembles, where simplicity meets style.   PAIR WITH NEUTRAL TONES If your personal style leans more towards subtle and minimal, you can start by pairing your prints with neutral tones like whites or nudes. Whether it is a bright blue texture like Kunal Anil Tanna’s play on stripes or a mix of pastel block prints, like Vedika M’s spin on hand painted drapes, you’re sure to make a memorable style statement with these stunning visual textures!     LAYER IT UP! Amp up the dimension and vivacity of your ensemble by mixing conspicuous prints with layering. A zebra textured cape on a colour blocked ensemble, like Zwaan’s or a solid bandi on a densely textured co-ord set, by Kunal Anil Tanna, these can help add depth to an otherwise simple attire. And if you’re looking to go one step further, opt for a single print through all layers like Gulabo Jaipur or use contrast colours and prints like Vedika M.     TRUE TO TRADITION As long as you keep your accessories to a bare minimum, you can get extremely creative with your prints in traditional silhouettes. A prairie printed sari or a blend of pastel stripes on bell sleeves can redefine demure elegance like no other as seen in ensembles by Ridhi Mehra, Gulabo Jaipur and Vedika M.     COOL CO-ORDS While mixing prints is purely instinctive, there is also a different fascination around wearing the same print from head to toe. If you choose to go indie, you can go crazy mixing different textures. From big and bold to floral and dainty, experiment with prints in different silhouettes like angarakha kurtas, peplum tops, bishop sleeves and flare pants, as seen above by designers Sukriti & Aakriti and Ridhi Mehra.     SEXY SINGLETONS There’s nothing more sophisticated than donning a singleton with a striking print throughout the ensemble. Ideally, opt for flowy silhouettes that flatter your body while looking absolutely chic like Zwaan colour-blocked or striped textures or Ridhi Mehra’s Persian play on the classic anarkali.

“Our love affair with museums and art continues to inspire us. This time, it was a walk through the galleries of the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam, Netherlands. Among several inspiring works, one made a deep impression, Dutch artist Jan Davidz de Heem’s Still Life with Flowers in a Glass Vase( 1650-1683 ). The detail and realism in this rather small painting is breath-taking. It made its way recently into our home on a magnified customized wallpaper and it’s the first thing we look at every morning with our first cup of coffee, our best part of the day.   It’s no coincidence then that it became the starting point of our design process for Autumn-Winter. We’ve worked our graphic sensibilities to make a collection cascading from florals to origami like geometric patterns on rich taffeta, silk velvets and organza. At the heart of every collection lies the texturization we like to give our textiles. We revived our intricate trapunto quilting and an army of scissor wielding hands have cut petals and discs, squares and trellises in fabric and metallic faux leather to create the surfaces that embellish the pieces.   The shapes are luxe-modern – off shoulder jumpsuits, voluminous winter coats, sportswear inspired sweatshirt dresses and tops, layered with transparent trenches and ruffled evening blouses – dark muted glam separates that can be styled uniquely.   We love our clothes to tell a story and for our collections to be universally wearable, and we hope to have done the same this season. From art, to heart, with soul. “     About Pankaj and Nidhi:   Pankaj graduated with top honors from the National Institute of Fashion Technology (N.I.F.T.). He won the Uma Nath Gold Medal for topping academics and the Ritu Kumar; Award for Best Graduating Collection 1995. He also won the first Smirnoff International Fashion Award in 1994.   After that, he worked with one of India’a leading designers as Head of Design for 10 years. During his tenure there, he met and married his colleague Nidhi, who is a bright and creative alumnus of N.I.F.T. She worked with one of India’s leading Export Firms, The Creative Group which designs & produces for some of the biggest labels in Europe.   In October 2010 they won the Grand First Prize at the International Apparel Federation’s International Fashion Award at the World Apparel Convention in Hong Kong. They were the winners of the iconic International Woolmark Prize, 2012, India.   In August 2012 the husband and wife duo was chosen as Grand Finale designers, a first for one of India’s younger talents, for Lakme Fashion Week where their collection was received with a standing ovation. They have been honored with several Elle Style Awards, the most recent and most prestigious of which was Elle Designer of the Year 2012. The others have been Elle Shape Shifters for 2011, Elle Best Women’s Prêt-a-porter in 2009 and Elle Best Debutant Designer in 2008.     Address: Shop No. 1, Turning Point Building, 16th Road,, Khar West, Mumbai 33, Altamount Rd, Tardeo, Mumbai, DLF Emporio, Delhi   Kila, Seven Style Mile, Mehrauli, New Delhi,   Instagram: @pankajandnidhi Facebook: Pankaj and Nidhi   For More Information: Varun Pratap varun@quirkindia.com 9999405770   Rushil Kapoor rushil@quirkindia.com 9958670413

Welcome to Elianna Bridal – Seattle Bridal Hair and Makeup   An award-winning formal hair design and versatile makeup artistry team for special events and Seattle bridal hair and makeup.   Elianna Bridal created by an exceptionally talented duo Arianna (Makeup Artist) & Elisha (Hair Stylist), based in Seattle, USA, offers makeup and hair design services for brides and bridal parties, engagements, receptions, photo shoots, pre-wedding events and more.   On your wedding day, Arianna and Elisha will arrive at your chosen location, allowing plenty of time to doll you up and ensure you look picture perfect.  They will also give professional advice on how to maintain your wedding look so you feel confident and look beautiful all day long! Their focus is to provide outstanding services paired with exceptional customer service, making you feel well pampered.   Although they are based in Seattle, they do love to travel! They are available for destination weddings, They have serviced clients in Georgia, Connecticut, Tennessee, New Delhi, Oregon, Mexico and look forward to adding your destination to their list!   They can be reached at www.eliannabridal.com   Instagram.com/eliannabridal   Here’s the glimpse of outstanding work by the team for the forthcoming wedding season

Charu Parashar is pleased to announce the launch of its new collection AW 19 “AVANTA GARDISTE”,  she derived  her collection inspiration from the “Chintz” floral Calico textiles of 19th Century, taken this concept cleverly and transformed it totally on a deep luxurious background  of colours and created a stunning AW’ 19 look. The collection features age old techniques of hand embroideries and Indian handlooms fabrics to create s stunning prêt and diffusion look, with this print of Floral and Chintz she is re-inventing the old silhouettes to create a new look has been the endeavour behind this collection. The main colours in the overall theme are navy blue, red and sea green.   Brand is known for its nature inspired designs collections and brand stands for high quality of craftsmanship and innovation of Indian ethnic luxury. She is a prolific fashion creator extending her influences and aesthetics into Pret and couture clothing, her team work tirelessly to create trend setting collection keeping the Indian sensibility in mind yet giving a global feel. Brand label has been well accepted globally presence in New Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore and internationally London, Hong Kong, Dubai, Los Angeles, Dallas, New York   With this collection this brand is continuing their work towards a more sustainable fashion future and closing a loop of fashion through which Charu wants to keep the old art and techniques of block printing alive. The collection are all made with more sustainable fabric such as Khadi Silk, Raw Silk, Satin Silk, Silk Velvet, Georgettes, Organza, brand offering covers a range of clothes including Indian Waistcoats, Drape Dhoti’s, Jackets, Skirts, Capes, the collection offers a fine balance between the simple styles with few details, in which the colours like navy blue, red and sea green alone create the expression and other well- known styles that are rich details.   This year she is also showcasing her first ever menswear looks, where street wear & street couture for men will be showcased.  

Diverse in design and eclectic in taste. Sukriti&Aakriti, the label is an endeavor undertaken by Creative Heads, Sukriti Grover and Aakriti Grover. The label from the start has adopted sustainability and eco-consciousness in their collections. While there is still a common notion that luxury is about extravagance, we started off creating festive wear in sustainable fabric to bring about the practice that conscious fashion is more luxurious. We stick to relaxed silhouettes thus these styles are a true depiction of runway to reality, the point is to bring comfort to the runway which people can wear in their daily lives.   sketch 1.jpg This season we are inspired by. Phulkari, which literally translates to ‘flower work’, it is a unique style or technique of embroidery particular to Punjab. However, more than just a handicraft, the threads of Phulkari are inextricably tied to the history of Punjab. Phulkari has a traditional significance and is worn to celebrate a wedding or a joyous occasion. This vivid style undergoes a revival in our latest collection. This textile art, so vibrant and playful and sets perfectly in our contemporary modern Indian wear silhouettes. While phulkari is deeply entrenched in the cultural fabric of Punjab, it can be translated into a contemporary wardrobe with ease.   sketch 2.jpg sketch 3.jpg “While luxury is admired with the idea of extravagance, we believe that conscious fashion is more luxurious and have strived to translate this notion of sustainability into our collection. Neo-Phulkari is a unique spin on the vibrant handicraft and encapsulates regality in the form of relaxed silhouettes that can be taken from runway to reality and are more wearable.”   sketch 4.jpgsketch 7.jpg Reviving, restoring, and celebrating the craft in a contemporary way is needed to push phulkari out of Punjab for a wider appeal. We revive Phulkari in a contemporary way this season using organic gota and naturally dyed gota !

LOOK DROP DEAD GORGEOUS IN APSARA!   As the wedding season is around the corner, ‘Affordly’ gives women a new collection to flaunt as they launch the ‘Apsara’ collection. Women who love to shop for traditional wear, this range is a delight.   Look drop dead gorgeous in the stylish silhouettes; The soft, lightweight organza fabric runs smoothly on your skin making you feel and look like a mystic being. Apsara has got an array of suits with exclusive designs, subtle colours and cozy fabric, at affordable prices. They are available in unique prints and embroideries in various shades.   If you want to rock the Indian Style – Be it any occasion – a celebration or a festival – Apsara collection provides you the right piece of elegant clothing of your taste. The classic and trendy collection of ethnic wear designed for all ages and events, is sure to give the festive vibes, to you and your tribe.   Price:Rs 1999 onwards   Available at: www.affordly.co.in