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

The Asus ZenPad 7.0 is a good looking gadget, which is packed with some impressive features. It has a 7 inch display and we absolutely love the chrome lining around the screen area, which gives it a classy and sleek look. The one we reviewed came with two covers - the regular plastic cover and a gorgeous audio cover, which is definitely one of the biggest highlights of this gadget. But that's not all, there is much more to this stunning ZenPad, then what meets the eye. This gadget comes as a huge relief to fellow multi-taskers, who like working on the go, and is packed with some seriously impressive features. Read on to know about our favourite aspects.

7-inch display: Comfortable to use and not very huge. It fits your hand perfectly (though it is slightly bigger than my palm, there was no discomfort while typing or clicking pictures) and is not very bulky. The display makes it comfortable for your eyes to edit / proof read and even read updates on the go.

Expandable storage up to 128 GB: While the gadget comes with 16gb internal storage, it can be expanded up to 128 GB, which is perfect for those who want a good mix of songs, photos and videos on their gadget.

8mp camera: While the rear camera has a good 8mp camera, even the front 2mp camera is quite decent and ensures you get some amazing selfies. Moreover, it comes with in-built beautification options, filters and options to shoot GIF images as well. Even the video quality, which is full HD, is great.

Calling Facility: Always wanted a tablet that can help you make calls? Then, look no further. ZenPad 7.0 comes with a SIM slot, making it easy to make / receive calls as well.

Sound: Hands the best part about this gadget, ZenPad is a must have for music lovers, thanks to a great audio output. Those who buy it with the audio cover definitely have an edge, as the cover ensures you hear your favourite tracks in crystal clear sound. Watching movies with the cover on is a lot of fun, thanks to the inclusion of 5 speakers and one subwoofer, which are placed under the sound bar area on the audio cover. You will get used to ditching your headphones more often, thanks to the incredible sound quality.

We have been testing this gadget for over a fortnight, and so far, the experience has been great. Asus 7.0 ZenPad works on ZenUI with Android 5.0.2 Lollipop. The battery life is average, with around 3450 mAh battery and an average of 6 hours screen-time (with the audio cover). On the technical / software front, we haven't experienced any difficulty or lags. The gadget works smoothly and like we said, watching videos / films on this ZenPad is pure delight. Another plus point of buying the Audio cover is the fact that is comes with 2300 mAh battery, making it easier for you to charge your gadget while the cover is on. Being music lovers, we are loving it and how!

Pros

- Incredible sound

- Easy to carry, as the gadget is light and sleek

- Good camera quality for images with natural light

- Good HD video quality

- Perfect for on the go work

Cons

- No in-built FM

Verdict: If you are looking for a mini home theatre in your hands, that can be used to watch videos and enjoy movies while traveling (and get some work done as well), then the Asus 7.0 ZenPad is a must have!

Price: Rs14,999 with audio cover

Available in three colours - Black, Silver and White

Have you tried the Asus ZenPad 7.0? Got something to say? Join the conversation on Twitter at @priyaadivarekar or leave your comment in the box below.

Love,

The Dancebee

Once again, the year belonged to Deepika Padukone, as she charmed her fans and cinema goers with delightful performances, one film after another. With Piku, she broke stereotypes and won several hearts with her impactful act, while with Tamasha, she earned accolades and love for her impeccable performance as Tara. Deepika ended the year with a bang, as she stormed the box office with an epic love saga - Bajirao Mastani. As the charming and beautiful warrior princess Mastani, Padukone created magic on the screen with her graceful performance. Needless to say, the actress is all set to sweep multiple awards yet again (well, the rounds have already begun, as she has already bagged two Best Actress trophies at a few recently concluded award functions). The stunning actress celebrates her 30th birthday today, and currently, she is on a much deserved break. On her special day, we bring you an up, close and personal conversation with Deepika Padukone, where she speaks about films, fashion, life and more.

On 2015

It has been a wonderful year, on both the professional and personal front. I couldn't have asked for more. From Piku to Tamasha, and now, Bajirao Mastani, each film has been special.
(This is what Deepika Padukone has to say about being experimental with her roles)

On Sanjay Leela Bhansali

Our actress - director relationship has been based purely on trust. It is a pleasure and honour to work with him, especially in two beautiful films. He is a taskmaster, and a very demanding director. He is very clear about what he wants and in that process, he pushes you to discover something new in yourself. Something that even you didn’t know. In that process of working under a hard taskmaster, you learn so much. Portraying Mastani and working on the film has been the most difficult experience of my life, but when you see the end result, everything seems worth it!

On Imtiaz Ali

Over time, there is a lot of trust, love and respect that grows between an actor-director, who have worked together on a few films. The same goes for Imtiaz and me. It won't be wrong to say that I am his fan, and in a lot ways, I also admire him. It is almost like a modern day guru - shishya relationship, because we are also friends and the fact that he is always open to criticism and advice from our end as well. That is because of our love for him. Imtiaz understands the human being that I am. He values your opinion and will be all ears to listen to you at any time. And I love sharing my thoughts with him for two reasons, because he is non-judgemental and the fact that he has known me almost since the time I started off in this industry. I take his advice very seriously. And that is largely how we worked on Tamasha. We were not bound by a ready script. A lot of times, we were just asked to improvise. Imtiaz would just call us and say, "These are the lines, but I want you to improvise and act it out the way you would. Show me what all you can do." That's the kind of freedom he likes to give his actors and puts his trust in you, in order to make sure that you deliver your best.

On Fashion

Fashion for me is what I believe in. The clothes that I wear should suit my body structure and I should be able to carry it off with ease. I am not dictated by fashion masters telling me, “You should wear this, because it is in trend.” Every individual should just go out there and wear what suits your personality. There’s much more to life than just following trends. Also, I have never been someone who is conscious about the brand that I wear nor have I been loyal to any particular brand. I have never been brand conscious. It’s all about the kind of stuff that I like wearing. 

On Films

I am someone who believes an actor needs to be honest about their work and give their 100 per cent while working on a film. It is that honesty and truth that shows when the film releases and eventually, reflects at the box office too. When you are honest about your work, the audience can see that very well. A recent example of this was Piku. There was no planned release date, no big announcements. A lot of people would say, "why are you doing this film?" Oh! You are paired opposite Irrfan, so weird!" But, I had a lot of faith in the film and its content. Our intentions for making this film were very true and honest. Everything else just follows. And eventually, the film got a great reception and a lot of love.

Image source: Hello Magazine

On the Film Industry

I am a 'go with the flow' kind of a person, and I am quite happy with the way things are going in the industry. No regrets. 

On Style statement

My style has always been simple, very basic. I like my outfits to be comfortable and wearable. It’s been this way since sometime and my style hasn’t changed a bit. You will never see me in anything that makes me feel ill-at-ease. I might experiment with styles like, edgy or goth for my photoshoots, but that doesn’t come naturally to me. My everyday, casual look would be white teamed up with either tan or denim. I like my clothes to be in lighter hues, more like a white or some pastel shades. Another colour that I like is coral. Also, I don’t really like accessorising too much. A simple watch or a good pair of sunglasses is enough.

On Live, Love, Laugh

The fight against depression is a cause very close to my heart and is one of the largest health issues that the country is facing today. Having experienced depression in the recent past, I realise how difficult it is to recognise the problem, find information and get the right kind of professional help. during the initial stage, the foundation will work on removing the stigma attached to depression and spread awareness about it. All the information will be available on our website for anyone who needs any kind of help in dealing with stress, anxiety or depression.

On 2016

I haven't signed any film. So, there is nothing that I am working on as of now.

Liked the interview? Don't forget to share / like / comment!

Love,

The Dancebee

You recently announced that you will be shifting focus towards producing films. How did that happen?

There many ways to earn money, but for me, producing films is not one of them. Through production, I can make films based on topics, issues or stories that I believe in. The kind of conviction I may have about a particular story or issue, may not necessarily appeal to a producer, who has to finance the film. Hence, this decision. My son will be heading the production house and the main focus will be on serious films. Also, I have told my son, it is not necessary that I need to star in all the films under our banner (laughs). He is free to cast any actor, and the film's fate will also be his lookout. There won't be any interference from my side in anyway.

There are reports that you will be seen in an international film based in the pre-independence era.

Yes, we are in talks. To be honest, I am not very fluent with the language. For someone who started learning basic english in a village only after standard 5th, and later, spent time with brushes and paints at JJ School of Arts, I am very good with the right use of English words and sentences. Even in college, I felt like the society is making fun of the fact that I don't know English and would often have an inferiority complex. But later in life, I did a Kannada film and realised, that I could pick up the language pretty well. So, I thought to myself, if I can learn Kannada, why can't I do an English film? At least, I fairly know the language and can learn. Let's see how it goes. As you said, it is indeed set during the pre-independence era and is a political film.

When will we get to see you on stage? It's been quite sometime since you did a play.

In all probability, you will see me in Saumya Joshi's next play, where my character is that of a 102-year-old man, whose son is 75. The father wants to beat the world record of the oldest living man (i.e 112 years) and since that requires him to live in a peaceful, happy environment, he doesn't want to see his son's detonating condition. This father plans to leave his son in an old age home, but his son does not want to leave and requests the father to allow him to stay. The former agrees, albeit with a few conditions for his son, which includes weird tasks like writing a love letter for his dead wife, discussing memories of his childhood among others. Within a few weeks, his son's condition starts improving and the audience realises that the whole exercise was the father's plan to enable his son to fight the world and face it on his own. In the end, the father dies, with a dream to see his son beating the world record of the oldest living man. It's a beautiful script, and I am planning to approach Mohan Agashe to play my son's role. Hopefully, it should pan out well. 

Your commendable work for the NAAM foundation is being talked about by everyone.

You know, a few days back, somebody asked me, "Aap kis vajese kisaano ko yeh paisa de rahe hain?" The thing is, like most of us, I have been saving some amount of money since years. I didn't know what to do with the collected amount. Some people might spend that kind of money on clothes, cars or jewellery. But for me, instead of using 1 crore for buying a car, bringing a smile on a farmer's face mattered more. I don't live a luxurious lifestyle. I lead a simple life, my needs are very limited. If you have money which you won't use, it makes sense to offer it to someone in need. Also, Makarand (Anaspure) is doing a brilliant job. He is well connected with all the NGOs and families in several rural areas and villages. He is a great human being. My first priority was to ensure that the money reaches the families of farmers who have committed suicide. Our global climate has gone for a toss, and one cannot predict rainfall or extreme cold / heat anymore. It is difficult for farmers to harvest crops, which usually die due to the climatic conditions, and with heavy debts on their head, they commit suicide. Can you imagine the plight of those young widows? They are hardly in their early 20s, with little children in their arms, and are going through a lot of pain to make two ends meet. Also, the way our society looks at a widow is not very positive. There are evil minded people who are always looking for way to use or hurt these young girls. All this could lead to a lot of trouble in the future for their families. I am emotionally attached to these people. I don't want to roam around in a Mercedes, at a time when our country continues to lose one farmer after another. Aisi luxury ka kya fayda? 

During our last interview, you had mentioned that you will be directing the third instalment of Ab Tak Chhappan. Is that project still on?

I want to work on the third instalment on my own. I am very serious about the fact that the story, direction and other important aspects need to be monitored by me. Otherwise, I won't do the film. I am not comfortable with their constant interference. Right now, I am focusing on another project, which will be helmed by me. A little girl will be seen as the lead protagonist and you will also see me in an important role. I am currently looking for suitable locations in Kathmandu and the Himalayas for our shoot. There is also a biopic on Baba Amte, which I will produce and direct.

Have you got a chance to watch any new film?

Honestly, I don't watch too many films. I am passionate about reading, and I can keep reading books for hours. Also, I love visiting villages and meeting people. Mujhe logon ko padhne ka shauk hain. Reading their face, understanding their pain and getting to know more about their lifestyle. I don't connect with them as an actor, but as a human being. As for films, I catch them later on television, whenever I get the time.

We never saw you work with Amitabh Bachchan, despite the much appreciated equation in Kohram.

Kya pata? Kisine cast hi nahi kiya (smiles). But, he is a good friend and we got along very well. I still remember how once on the sets, I complimented him about his look and said, "Wah! Beehtareen shirt pehan ke aaye ho." After wrapping up the shoot for that day, I went back to my vanity, only to see his shirt hanging inside my vanity van. I was later informed that he wore my shirt and went back home. I still have that shirt with me. Then one day, he was distributing sweets and I casually asked, "What happened?" He exclaimed with joy, stating that his daughter had given birth to a child, and he is now a 'Nana'. "Itne saal lag gaye? Mujhe dekh, main janam se Nana hoon," was my instant response (laughs).

Is there any actor of this generation whose work left you feeling impressed? 

Not really. No actor from the current crop has left an impression or can inspire. I look upto great actors like Balraj Sahni, Motilal sahab, Yakub sahab, Nutanji. These days, actors are only focusing on running the 100 / 200 / 300 crore race. But, I had recently seen the film Bhaag Milkha Bhaag and loved the efforts put in by the cast.

Who has been your biggest inspiration in life?

My parents, especially my mother. Even at the age of 95, she lives by the 'never give up' attitude. Fourteen years back, she was diagnosed with cancer and was told that she won't survive. Even after that, she has gone through several operations for various problems. A few months back, she broke her hand, which resulted in a compound fracture. Despite the pain and medication, after four days, I saw her walking with the help of a walker. Her strength, will power is incredible and she is a great inspiration. Also, I look up to Baba Amte.

We always see you working or running around to help people. Do you ever get the time to take a break or enjoy a holiday?

Whenever I take a break, I don't look out for exotic destinations. I find solace in my farm. Spending time with animals is a different experience and I find it very relaxing. Their silence speaks volumes. I like spending time in a peaceful environment and there is nothing better than being surrounded by nature.

You will be turning a year older on the 1st of January. What's the secret behind your fit body, mind and soul?

I am 65 now, but I always ensure that I work out for at least 2 hours everyday. It is very important for an individual to look after their body. I am not someone who is fussy about food and I eat everything. I don't go out partying or spending hours at events that don't appeal to me. Also, I don't smoke, so that helps.

Love,

The Dancebee

We have always been a fan of actress Jacqueline Fernandez' luscious locks and flawless skin. And her association with one of our favourite beauty brands - The Body Shop, is like an icing on the cake. She is the perfect ambassador for promoting skincare products with a cause. Her no-make up selfies and glowing skin has always been the subject of conversations. So, if her Instagram posts don't inspire you to take of your skin immediately, we don't know what will! 

Post an event (where she was spotted launching the all new Spas of the World and Oils of Life range by The Body Shop), we caught up with Jacqueline for an exclusive chat on all things skincare. Dressed in a canary yellow matching separates by Be The Circus and stunning Louboutins, Jacqueline was being her usual self - enthusiastic, energetic and ever - so - happy. After a quick chat on our favourite products by The Body Shop (Yes! We both love the Fuji Green Tea range), we settled down to decode her beauty secrets. Excerpts from a fun conversation:

What's your favourite product from the latest range by The Body Shop?

Ah! It is very difficult for me to choose just one, because I have been using a lot stuff by The Body Shop and have become very fond of some products. Every time a new range is launched, I test almost every single product. There is something amazing for each season, with different fragrances and ingredients. I love the fact that they keep introducing new stuff almost once every month. Right now, I am loving the creams, which have an incredible texture and are perfect for winter. Once you use any cream by The Body Shop, it is very difficult to move on to anything else. Also, my current favourite is the Oils of Life range, and I particularly like the Facial Oil (read our review here) which is perfect for winters. 

What's that one beauty mantra that you swear by?

Indulge in hair spas, or best, ensure that you oil your hair regularly. Go for a facial steam. Also, I have always found facial massages very useful. One won't really pay attention to something like this, but as a kid, I would always watch my Mom massaging her skin well while moisturising. And now, we also have facial massagers that can be used with your regular cream or oil. I think it's a very important element that needs to be included in our daily skincare regime, as it helps in more elasticity and keeps your skin feeling smooth.

And your personal beauty mantra for winters?

Moisturise, moisturise and moisturise. Ensure your skin is well hydrated!

Was there any particular product or skincare regime that you loved while growing up in Sri Lanka?

Nothing particular as such, because both India and Sri Lanka are like sister countries and we pretty much share the same ideals when it comes to beauty, especially the ingredients. We are very big on the properties of coconut, so we do use it a lot for skin and hair care. Also, we use a lot of natural ingredients, especially from exotic fruits, just like India. Plus, consuming them does help in maintaining good skin and hair.

What was the first beauty product that you remember using?

I think it was one of my mom's creams. So, I used it for moisturising. That is one thing I clearly remember. Every time I used to see my Mom getting ready for work, she would be moisturising her skin well. She would always see it to that her skin felt good. So, I guess that is one thing I took from her. No matter how much time it takes, I always make sure that I moisturise my skin well everyday. I am really huge on creams and anything that makes your skin smell and feel good. Also, that is one reason why The Body Shop's upcoming Spas of the World range is amazing. The ingredients leave your skin feeling smooth and supple. It's like pampering yourself at home.

So, do you follow a regular skincare routine?

Yeah, I do. And I think CTM (Cleansing, Toning and Moisturising) is extremely important. Also, I never go to bed with my make up on. That's a huge no-no. I always use a good make up remover, which is easy on the eyes. Also, a good cleanser is essential. I use the Vitamin E cleanser by The Body Shop, which makes my skin feel squeaky clean after a long day. I also use toners and moisturisers. But now, I have also included the facial oil in my daily skin routine. The skin needs to feel hydrated, supple during winter and the facial oil leaves my skin feeling just that.

Do you think fitness plays a major role in the way your skin looks?

Absolutely! Exercising regularly takes good care of your skin from within. The minute you have good skin, half your battle is won, as you will require less covering up. Just a little bit of enhancements on the eyes, lips and you are done. So, taking good care of your skin is extremely important, with the right amount of sleep, good diet, exercise and the right products.

What are favourite your make up essentials?

I allow my skin to breathe as much as possible. Even at home, there's no make up at all. But, I always ensure that I am wearing sunscreen. But, when I step out, some of my essentials include a good concealer, BB cream that can both moisturise and provide decent coverage, a nice primer to smoothen out your skin. More than that, it depends. If I feel like making my eyes pop, I go for lots of mascara or if the lips, then bold lipsticks. But my most favourite make up item has to be a Blush. Using a blush is very important! That is definitely my essential.

Have something to say about the interview? Join the conversation on Twitter at @priyaadivarekar 

Love,

The Dancebee