Colorblocking | Red Carpet Inspiration
With the cold breeze bidding adieu, spring is almost here to say hello and so are colourful hues. It's time of the year when we welcome summer / resort trends and see them all around us. Some fashionistas have been experimenting with these trends already, one of our current favourites being Colorblocking, a trend that burst on the fashion scene in the 80s - 90s and keeps getting bigger year after year. We saw it at Bottega Veneta, Akris among others last year and the trend is fast becoming a favourite on the red carpet too. Celebrities took to colorblocking and gave their outfits a spin of their own, but it looks like the orange and pink combination was a clear favourite. We spotted some popular Indian and International celebrities sporting this trend and we must say, it's turning out to be one colourful affair!
Who? - Taylor Swift
Where? - Grammy Awards (2016)
Taylor Swift shone like a bright star in this gorgeous Versace outfit, as she walked home with three Grammy awards this year. The custom coral and fuchsia two piece outfit, bold lips and that hot new hairdo was the perfect combination for a superstar. Slay it, girl!
Who? - Katrina Kaif
Where? - Fitoor Promotions (2016)
Bollywood actress Katrina Kaif was among the first few to sport the color blocking trend in 2016. Dressed in a Jill Jill Stuart two tone gown, Katrina kept it simple with just bright pink lips and a pair of gold hoop earrings by Isharya. Perfect to brighten up any dull day, no?
Who? - Rihanna
Where? - Night out in New York (2011)
Trust Rihanna to make us fall in love with everything that she picks! Although she wore this outfit in 2011 (Yes! Almost five years ago), it is still one of our favourites. The magenta and orange combination here is perfect for both Fall and Spring. Perfect outfit to channel your inner rockstar, no?
Who? Emma Stone
Where? - Met Gala (2014)
Ah! The queen of colour blocking. Is there anyone who can nail this trend better than her? Remember her Giambattista Valli peplum ensemble? We couldn't take our eyes off that gorgeous look. Though she has impressed us with her colourful choices at several red carpet events, one of our favourites has to be this pink on pink two piece Thakoon outfit, that she chose for the Met Gala in 2014.
Who? - Richa Chaddha
Where? - Dior dinner (2015)
Another Indian actress, this time Richa Chaddha chose this gorgeous Andrew Gn outfit for a Dior dinner last year. The bright, bold colours compliment her gorgeous skin tone perfectly. Oh, and we love how she has kept it minimal with both less make up and accessories.
Who? - Leslie Mann
Where? - The Other Woman premiere (2014)
Now, this lady is some serious inspiration! Flaunting that perfect figure and looking absolutely stunning in this orchid silk linen gazar bandeau and poppy silk gazar draped ball skirt by Monique Lhuillier is none other than Leslie Mann. What's amazing is that instead of going minimal, she chose to add a touch of drama by colour blocking her nails and lips as well. Also, don't miss those gorgeous Oscar Tiye Cleopatra sandals.
Well, we can't wait to sport the colour blocking trend this season! We are eyeing our favourite outfits and accessories already. Do you have a favourite colour blocking look? Do let us know.
Love,
The Dancebee
The Body Shop Black Musk Fragrance Range | Review
We have all been fans of the white musk range by The Body Shop for a long time now, haven't we? And then, we saw the success of their 2015 launch - Red Musk, a spicy and strong fragrance. This year, The Body Shop is back with a new launch and it is none other than a new addition to the Musk fragrance range family - The Black Musk. The new launch includes an EDP (eau de parfum), EDT (eau de toilette) and one of our favourites - a perfume oil. We were introduced to the range a little before it was formally launched at stores and their official website, and after experiencing it for a fortnight, here's what we think of The Body Shop's Black Musk range.
I have always loved The Body Shop products for their 'cruelty free' promise. And the Musk range - be it white, red or the new black - has always lived up to it. The musk used in these fragrances are cruelty free. It contains Community Fair Trade organic alcohol crafted from sugar cane that is harvested by co-operatives in South America. So, it's all good for you and our adorable animal friends.
The Body Shop refers to their Black Musk range as one of their most darkest and sensual fragrances. Well, I do agree with them on the sensual part, but this is definitely not one of their darkest fragrances. The range - comprising of an EDP, EDT and Perfume Oil, come packaged in elegant black glass bottles with a hint of fuchsia pink. The fragrance is a blend of sweet and sensuous note, which stays true to their 'Nice and Naughty' campaign. Although it has a few sweet notes, the musky and sensual notes do their job well, ensuring that the fragrance does feel overpowering. The opening notes feel like a blend of bergamot, pear and pink pepper (and trust me, that's where your affair with the fragrance begins).
As we further continued to test the fragrance, the middle notes began their work. While we can still feel the aroma of pear, there are hints of heliotrope, marzipan, almond, ylang ylang that linger on. Not to forget, notes of liquorice as well, which are very peculiar. Finally, as the fragrance begins to settle well, some of favourites including black musk, black vanilla, earthy patchouli, vetiver and chocolate set the end notes perfectly. All these notes help the Black Musk range of fragrances get its sensuous and not too overwhelming aroma, which is fast becoming one of our favourites.
The Body Shop Black Musk Eau de Parfum (EDP)
Quantity: 50ml
Price: Rs 3295
Our experience: We love the beautiful melange of the sweet and sensuous notes. It is perfect for a special evening occasion and is perfect for the festive winter mood. Just spritz it a few times and you are ready to go. The tiny elegant bottle is perfect to carry, except for the fact that it is not very travel friendly (glass bottles have their disadvantages). This is one of those few perfumes that can actually make you feel special and that too, without burning a huge hole in your pocket. The fragrance is intense and lingers on strongly for a good number of hours (in our case, a good six - seven hours).
The Body Shop Black Musk Eau de Toilette (EDT)
Quantity: 60ml
Price: Rs 2195
Our experience: Well, the fragrance is same and so are our views on it. The aroma is a little less intense than the EDP and Perfume Oil. But, what really surprised was the fact that despite being an EDT, the lasting power of this product was actually very good. While most EDTs last anywhere around 2 hours, this one almost stayed on for 3 - 4 hours. I love wearing this EDT after a post-workout / run shower. It just makes me feel like I have walked out in a 'pure bliss' mode.
The Body Shop Black Musk Perfume Oil
Quantity: 20ml
Price: Rs 2095
Our experience: One of our personal favourites, the Black Musk Perfume Oil reminds us of the traditional 'Attar'. Even the glass bottle with a dropper reminds us of those tiny attar bottles that you would find at most vintage shops. The oil is non-greasy and lingers on for a good 4 hours. It's the tiniest bottle from this range and can easily slip into your bag, without adding any extra weight. Oh, and don't worry about any spills (unless you end up breaking the bottle, of course). The bottle is neatly packed and the cap is well fitted. Despite being an oil based fragrance, the aroma is intense.
Final Verdict: This warm, sensuous blend has become our favourite already. We would prefer using this range more during the fall - winter / festive season, thanks to its warm notes, especially liquorice. If you loved the strong and spicy notes of the Red Musk range, then you might be a bit disappointed with the more warm and sweet notes of this fragrance. But still, I would recommend that you visit the store and give a product from this range, especially the EDP or Perfume Oil, a shot. It's a sophisticated fragrance that is a perfect mix of sweet and sexy and will definitely not disappoint you. The delightful notes will ensure that you fall in love with this fragrance, slowly and steadily.
Have you tried the all new Black Musk range by The Body Shop? If yes, tell us about your experience on Twitter | Instagram or Facebook.
Love,
The Dancebee
Date Night Make Up and Outfit Tutorial | New Woman Magazine
So, while we got you all set for a Lunch date in our previous post, it's time to glam up and get set for the ultimate date night. Ditch those typical LBDs and gowns for something more elegant this year. But hey, who said you have to let go of bling? In this post, we decode the make up and look book in a step-by-step tutorial, as featured in our special editorial for the New Woman Magazine (February Issue). Get set to look glamorous and achieve that perfect look for a special date night, this valentine's day.
Step One: Set the base as per your preference (you can follow the steps mentioned in our Day Date Look).
Step One: Set the base as per your preference (you can follow the steps mentioned in our Day Date Look).
Step Two: Since we are creating a look for an evening / night date, I have added a hint of bling with darker hues on the eyes. Start with a light base colour and spread it well all over the eye area. I chose the 'Pure white' shade from the Sleek Matte Eyeshadow Palette. Next, I chose the shade 'Maple' (from the same palette) and blended it well with multiple strokes on the crease. The idea is to get a darker hue of the shade. Apply a hint of the 'Pure white' shade on the inner corner of your eyes.
Step Three: To add some drama, use a metallic eye shadow on the lid and blend it well. I have used the Kiko stick eye shadow in Golden Beige. Blend the maple and gold hues at the fold of your eyelid.
Step Three: Use a liquid eyeliner on the top lash line. Create a thin line using the Lakmé Absolute Gloss Artist (Black) and create inner inverted edges towards the end.
Step Four: To make your lashes look voluminous, add a swipe of the MAC Haute and Naughty Mascara. Use the large oriface to add volume for a dramatic look.
Step Five: To highlight your cheeks and get the perfect flushed cheeks, I used the Honey Bronze Highlighter by The Body Shop, which can be used both as a highlighter and a cream blush (use at least 3-4 layers for the colour to be visible). Start near the apple of your cheeks (image 1). Use it in the upwards direction (apple of the cheek to the temples). Start by blending with your fingers and then, use a blending brush for the finishing touches.
Step Six: Create an outline with your lip-liner. I have used the Kiko Lip Pencil in classic red. Fill in with a retro matt red lipstick like MAC Ruby Woo. For those who need a touch of gloss, you can choose the Lakme Absolute Gloss Addict in Red Delight.
For the Hair: Use an anti-frizz serum to ensure your hair stays in place. Make two tiny braids on both sides and pack them at the centre behind using pins. Spray some hairspray for better hold. You can also choose to curl the ends. Add some fancy hair accessories at the centre to complete the look. If you have side fringes, leave them naturally open for a chic look.
And finally, add some blingy drama to your outfit with a pair of metallic shoes and clutch. You can also choose to accessorise it with some rings, but I kept it simple and preferred to go the minimal way with just a cuff. Throw on a jacket, because nights continue to be cold in February! Oh and hey, enjoy your date.
And finally, add some blingy drama to your outfit with a pair of metallic shoes and clutch. You can also choose to accessorise it with some rings, but I kept it simple and preferred to go the minimal way with just a cuff. Throw on a jacket, because nights continue to be cold in February! Oh and hey, enjoy your date.
Do let us and the amazing team at New Woman know how you like this look! Enjoy the Valentine's Weekend with your loved ones. And, don't forget to look your stylish best.
Outfit Details
Dress - Mango
Jacket - Zara
Cuff, Hair clips (set of 9) and Clutch - all: Accessorize
Metallic Gold Heels - Dune London
MUA and Hair: Team Dancebee
Shot by: Siddhesh Savant
Original text: Anisha Suvarna
Editorial shot for: New Woman Magazine (February Issue)
Love,
The Dancebee
Valentine's Day Make Up and Outfit Tutorial | New Woman Magazine
February has been a 'lovely' month. Apart from being the month of love and happiness, it gave us a surprise in the form of a fun and exclusive editorial shot for one of India's leading lifestyle magazines - New Woman. Keeping in mind the demand for easy make up tutorials for a special date, the amazing team at New Woman invited me to work on a step-by-step date look guide, for both day and night. It is perfect for those who want to go the minimal way and keep it simple yet chic for a special occasion. In this post, I will be decoding a special Valentine's Day date look, for a lunch date or day out with your loved one.
Step One: Spray a facial mist on your face to let the make-up stay longer. I prefer using the MAC FixIt+. Two light pumps are enough to keep your face hydrated.
Step Two: Start with the base. I have mixed two shades of Revlon Nearly Naked Liquid Foundation - Fresh Beige and Shell. Mix a small quantity of both the shades and with the help of a brush, spread it evenly all over your face. Ensure that your face looks even and natural (we don't need a cakey look).
Step Three: Time to conceal blemishes and those pesky dark circles. I prefer using the concealer after using the foundation (tip: it helps save a lot of your product). Mark those blemishes and areas that you want to conceal. Blend it well with a blending brush or sponge. I have used the L'Oreal True Match concealer.
Step Four: Use some pressed powder foundation to set the base, and to ensure that there is no trace of sweat or grime. I have used the MAC Studio Fix pressed powder. Ensure you use it well on the t-zone with the help of a powder brush. You can skip this step if you feel your base is perfect and doesn't need a final touch up.
Step Five: Pick an eyeshadow hue that matches your outfit well. I chose a maple shade from the Sleek Matte Eyeshadow palette and applied it with the help of a brush. It was blended well with a silvery white shade from the same palette. I use my index finger for blending. You can use a brush as well. Tap off any excess shadow.
Step Six: Use a liquid eyeliner and wing it in a unique way. Split the ends of your wing into two, creating a twig. I have used the Lakmé Absolute Gloss Artist in black. The tip of this liquid liner is perfect for experiments. You can keep the line thick or thin, according to your preference. Add a little eyeliner on the inner corner of the eyes to open them up and to prevent your eyes from looking too pale.
Step Seven: Work some mascara. I have used two swipes of my favourite - MAC Haute and Naughty Mascara, which comes in a dual-wiper system. I have used the defined brush here, to add a more natural look.
Step Eight: Use a brow pencil and fill your brows well. Likewise, you can also use an eyeshadow that matches the shade of your brow hair and fill them in.
Step Nine: For my lips, I chose Clinique Chubby Stick in Pudgy Peony, which is a nice fuchsia pink. You can add a tinge of red and blend the two colours as well. I prefer blending this shade with Lakme's Absolute Gloss Addict in Red Delight.
Step Ten: Use a blush that matches your skin type and complexion. I like both cream and powder based blushes, but for this look, I chose the Clinique Blushing Blush Powder Blush. With the help of a blush brush, apply it in an angular motion, blending from the apples of the cheeks towards the temples.
Step Eleven: Use an anti-frizz leave in on your hair to ensure there are no unwanted flyaways or frizz. Set it with the help of a paddle brush and blow dry it gently, or you can choose to keep it natural. Leave your hair open and accessorise it with a chic hairband.
And there you go! All set for a lunch date with your loved one (or even a fun day out with your girl friends). We are huge fans of chic dresses that add some drama to an otherwise quiet afternoon date. Let us know how you like the look and if you will be trying it out this V-day. And do check out the full tutorial in the February issue of New Woman Magazine.
Outfit Details
Dress - RuVya by Ruchika & Divya
Hairband, Set of Love Rings, Boxed sling bag - all: Accessorize
Peeptoe pumps - Steve Madden
MUA and Hair - Team Dancebee
Shot by: Siddhesh Savant
Featured in - New Woman Magazine (February Issue)
Original article by - Anisha Suvarna
Love,
The Dancebee
I like reinventing myself with everything that I do - Sonam Kapoor | Exclusive Interview
It’s a breezy afternoon, and one can’t miss the flurry of activities at actor Anil Kapoor’s suburban office. Amid stylists arranging outfits for the next event and her team working on weekly schedules, we spot actress Sonam Kapoor, calmly seated on a comfortable lounger, giving media bytes. Dressed in a gorgeous Dolly J maxi and a pair of Louboutins, Sonam looked her stylish best as always. “It’s been a long day full of questions and answers,” stated the actress. But she doesn’t rush through the process and settles down for a chat while saying, “Shoot your questions. I am all ears.”
Be it creating the Dubsmash rage on social media and inspiring others to do the ‘thumka’ like her on Prem Ratan Dhan Payo’s title track or portraying characters like the feisty Dolly (Dolly Ki Doli) and elegant Maithili (PRDP), Sonam has had a great 2015. The fact that she experiments with characters explains her fondness towards venturing into untested waters and accepting challenges as a way of learning new things. “I enjoy the process of doing something new with every film. If I don’t do that, I won’t be challenging myself. I can’t do the same kind of characters over and over again. That would just be plain boring, right? On the creative front, that would mean getting into a stagnant zone. I like reinventing myself with everything that I do.”
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| Image Credit: Sanskriti Media and Entertainment |
Sticking to the promise of reinventing herself with every film, Sonam’s next is the intense biopic, Neerja. She will be seen essaying the role of Late Neerja Bhanot - India’s youngest recipient of the Ashoka Chakra (highest peacetime military award for bravery). It was Neerja who sacrificed her life and saved more than 300 passengers on the ill fated Pan Am flight 73, that was hijacked on September 5, 1986. As part of her preparation and research for the character, Sonam trained to become an in-flight attendant and learned everything about the job. “That was the basic preparation required for this role. I also met Neerja’s friends, family members to understand more about her life. Since she was also a model, I saw all her advertisements. In fact, Neerja’s family had a beautiful audio recording of her in-flight announcement rehearsals, which also helped,” stated Sonam. But according to her, the biggest preparation was to become Neerja and understand her personality. Sonam adds, “It was important for me to know what she believed in and what she didn’t. So, I tried to imbibe her likes, dislikes, and morals. Because at the end of the day, she wasn’t in front of me. So, the process for me to know who she was happened through understanding her beliefs, values and principles.”
It was important for me to know what she believed in and what she didn’t. So, I tried to imbibe her likes, dislikes, and morals. Because at the end of the day, she wasn’t in front of me.
The actress believes that playing a courageous character like Neerja has made her stronger. “In fact, when we were shooting in the plane, at the end of every day, I would just go, ‘Thank god, I am out of the plane.’ By the end of the schedule, it was tough for me to believe that I get to leave this plane, but Neerja couldn’t,” said Sonam, adding that the journey has left a deep, positive impact on her mind. So much, that after working on Neerja, her perspective towards in-flight attendants has changed a lot. She adds, “I didn’t realise that 70 per cent of an in-flight attendant’s job is to ensure the safety of their passengers, while 30 per cent is service. People’s usual perception of them being glorified waiters / waitresses is just ridiculous and wrong. The kind of hard work that goes into this, and how duty bound they are, is just amazing. So now, when a flight attendant tells me to wear my seat belt, I do that immediately (smiles). Whether it is putting the window pane up or switching off my phone, I follow all the instructions politely. I have always been that way, because that’s how I have been brought up.”
But, she admits there were a few instances where she had forgotten to wear the seat belt or switch off her phone. “But now, there is no room for such things. I know that the flight attendants are responsible for my safety and I respect that! And, no matter how many pictures they want to take with me, I will never say no,” assures Sonam with a smile, as she gets ready to change into a gorgeous emerald green anarkali for her next meeting and signs off.
Love,
The Dancebee
This interview (a shorter version) was earlier published in the February issue of Air India's inflight magazine - Shubh Yatra.
