Showing posts with label Styling. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Styling. Show all posts
The Double Denim
I have always been a huge fan of denim. Be it a jacket, pair of shorts, shirts, chinos or the good ol' jeans, denim is a wardrobe staple that I can't do without. While the classic denim with a crisp white shirt is my favorite go-to outfit, I have been loving the double denim trend this season. Unlike most other trends, the denim-on-denim look can be quite tricky. But if you put together your outfit carefully and choose the right piece of apparel, no one can stop you from looking like a million bucks. Be it the runway or a high street brand store, denim has been spotted everywhere this season and that too, in a variety of silhouettes, hues and finishes. Recently, we did a fun shoot with Nine West (more on that in the next paragraph) and while hunting for the right outfit, I came across this jacket at the Mango store. The moment I saw it, I knew I had to create a double denim look with this gorgeous piece. While I didn't want to opt for a head-to-toe denim outfit, I decided to break the outfit with a fun white T-shirt, that is perfect for summer.
The spring-summer 2015 collection at Nine West is every shoe and bag obsessed individual's delight. For this outfit, I was looking for something metallic and sporty. These super comfortable and stunning metallic slip ons caught my eye. These babies were just made for this outfit, and I think, a pair of footwear like this is perfect to wear while traveling from one state to another (basically, airport hopping), shopping with your friends or just hanging out for fun. I love how it adds some subtle glam to this look. As for the bag, I was desperately hunting for a backpack, but finally zeroed in on this beautiful (and spacious) light grey bag. Stock up on all your summer essentials in this one, because there is lots of room for everything.
You can give this look a sports-lux spin by replacing the t-shirt with a fun graphic or sports tee and then, trade those slip-ons for a pair of high top sneakers. Opt for a messy high pony tail, keep the make up clean (if you are not a fan of bold lips, go for a brown or nude shade) and keep it minimal on the accessories front, by just adding a chunky watch and a pair of aviators or retro lennon reflectors. Voila! You are ready to rock.
Want to hear me talk more about this look and answer a few fun questions thrown in by the awesome folks at Nine West? Click on the last image in this post and watch my latest YouTube video - The Nine West Tag.
You can give this look a sports-lux spin by replacing the t-shirt with a fun graphic or sports tee and then, trade those slip-ons for a pair of high top sneakers. Opt for a messy high pony tail, keep the make up clean (if you are not a fan of bold lips, go for a brown or nude shade) and keep it minimal on the accessories front, by just adding a chunky watch and a pair of aviators or retro lennon reflectors. Voila! You are ready to rock.
Want to hear me talk more about this look and answer a few fun questions thrown in by the awesome folks at Nine West? Click on the last image in this post and watch my latest YouTube video - The Nine West Tag.
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| Click Image to watch the full video - The Nine West Tag |
Outfit Details
Denim Jacket, Ripped Denim Shorts and White Summer Tee - All: Mango
Metallic slip-ons - Nine West
Light Grey Bag - Nine West
Watch - Swatch (blogger's own)
Photo Credit: Bhavya Kotian Photography
Love,
The Dancebee
Love Actually | India Circus
Tis' the season of love, they say. But in a world filled with so much hatred, can we afford just a day dedicated to love? Love can win any battle, topple over any form of hatred. Then why does it take time for us to acknowledge it and spread the happiness around? Spreading a little bit of love and happiness doesn't do much harm. And I am not restricting love to just certain relationships. There is so much more to it.
You can share some love with your parents, siblings, friends, a little kid living next door or even an elderly woman spotted outside a temple. A simple smile, exchange of loving words can really make someone's day. And no, it is not just restricted to humans. Go ahead and spend a fun day with your pet, or lovingly hug a stray dog after feeding him/her some biscuits. In fact, it can even be your favorite items ranging from bags, books, shoes to the best of apparel in your wardrobe. Keeping them in good condition is also a way of loving the stuff that you call your own and while shopping, you end up buying only the things that you love (unless you are someone who follows trends religiously).
And then, of course, you need to love yourself. Because even at a time when no one's there for you, you can look into the mirror and say, "Main apni favorite hoon." So, you see, love has no boundaries, really.
Speaking of love, the word is actually quite apt for this collaboration, because everything available on India Circus spells 'Pure Love'. Visit their website and get ready to fall in love with every single piece of apparel, accessories, stationary and home decor items. Their fun, stylish and colorful prints are hard to miss. Its a lot like love at first sight. If you set your eyes on any of India Circus' beautiful products, chances are that you might not want to leave the web-store without placing an order. One look at this Elephant Bath bag and I knew I had to order it. As for the pink ballet flats, they make for a versatile pair that can go well with a variety of looks, ranging from ethnic, classic, casual to bohemian. My work buddies - I am talking about the iPad and iPhone - couldn't have asked for better sleeves and cases. While the India Circus chromatic reminiscence phone case shows off my love for cinema very well, the melange of different hues on the colourful streamer iPad sleeve adds more joy to my email replying hours. Clearly, there is a lot to love here.
I am guessing the folks at India Circus also agree with my mantra of loving yourself. So much, that this Valentine's eve, they are offering assured gifts on purchase to all the singletons out there. See, being single ain't all that bad, after all. You can indulge in some retail therapy and tell yourself, "I am who I am and I love being me." They also have an exclusive curated section, where special curated products by India Circus Design Director, Krsna Mehta, can be purchased. There is something for everyone, so don't hesitate to fill your cart with multiple goodies for your loved ones (and maybe, acquaintances or strangers too). Here's to love, and the lovely burst of colours in India Circus products! Keep spreading the joy.
Outfit Details
Grey Tee - Marks and Spencer
Asymmetrical Skirt and Gold neck piece - Forever 21
Watch - Tommy Hilfiger
Pink ballet flats, Bag and iPad sleeve - (All) India Circus
Photos by: Team Dancebee
Love,
The Dancebee
Top 5 picks | MAWI X KOOVS collection
Yes, its here! The Mawi x Koovs collaboration that most stylistas were waiting for was finally launched yesterday and honestly, we can't stop lusting over a few pieces. While some items are yet to be launched (and are placed under the 'coming soon' section), some others are up there on the Koovs website, vying for your attention. For those of you who have just arrived, Mawi is a popular luxury accessory brand, led by the company's Creative Director Mawi Keivom. What we love about the collaboration is the fact that each piece is unique and despite the affordable pricing, does not compromise on quality.
Here's presenting a list of our Top 5 favorite picks from the Mawi x Koovs collection. They range from pretty drop earrings to a lust worthy crop top and an embellished clutch that must top your wishlist this party season.
1. Heart Droplet Earrings
2. Leaf Gem Chain Bracelet
3. Embellished Glitter Purse Clutch
4. Box Chain Heart Necklace
5. Necklace Print Long Sleeve Crop Top
We have already filled our cart with some of these beauties and can't wait
Love,
The Dancebee
I have always preferred comfort over trends - Boman Irani | Exclusive Interview
Being multifaceted is one thing. But being immensely talented and excelling in everything that you do is a rare feat. Actor Boman Irani falls gracefully in the second category. The fifty-four-year young actor, who recently tasted success with his impeccable portrayal of the local Parsi chocolate boy, Tammy, in Happy New Year, is all set to make heads turn at the upcoming edition of the Blenders Pride Fashion Tour. This time, Irani has stepped into a brand new role, that of a Style Blender (and speaker) at the fashion fiesta.
The frenzy around him at a recent preview of the five city fashion tour was for all to see, as people couldn't stop complimenting the actor for his performance and dapper red carpet event appearances. Post photo shoots and television interviews, the actor settled down for an exclusive chat with Priya Adivarekar, where he spoke about his idea of style and comfort, association with Blenders Pride Fashion Tour and how he also designs his character look for a film.
Could tell us about your association with Blenders Pride Fashion Tour in detail? This is the first time that you are taking on the role of a Style Blender.
Initially, when they called up to say that they wanted me to be a part of the fashion tour, I asked - why me? (smiles) That's when I began to understand the whole idea of this five city tour. Its not just about a fashion designer showcasing his work. The tour celebrates the blend of attitude, inner self, substance, respect and comfort with style. We (designers associated with Blenders Pride Fashion Tour, Irani and writer Chetan Bhagat) are not here to hawk for big labels and brands. Its all okay and to each his own, but the main idea is to educate the whole country about the real essence of Fashion, which is all about finesse, refinement and turning out well. Fashion has least to do with expensive clothes.
Is that your personal style mantra too?
Absolutely! I may be in a better position to afford labels now, but there was a time when I couldn't and I would still be a refined dresser. Its all a myth when people believe that fashion is all about glitterati. I personally believe that real fashion is all about being the best you can be, in the most pure way, within your needs and parameters.
Does comfort always find priority over trends in your personal wardrobe?
Oh yes! Comfort will always come first. For me, comfort doesn't necessarily have to do with only fitting or fabric. One should also see if they are feeling awkward in that garb. The question to ask is - Am I uncomfortable and feeling awkward? So, you need to pick the right color, fabric and fitting that not only suits your age, but also allows you to feel relaxed and presentable. People get excited while picking or wearing a suit. But, if the style doesn't match your personality, it will eventually reflect. I will keep looking at myself in the mirror and say, "Bhai! Yeh barabar hain kya?" But at the same time, I am not the kind who believes that pyjamas and track pants are the most comfortable outfits. I just feel that when your outfit is respectful and presentable at a particular event, you are and will feel comfortable. Like, there are times when I have to wear a particular outfit. Say for instance, a traditional wedding. In a situation like this, I may not be comfortable in that outfit, but I have to abide by the requirement. But, at least I feel comfortable with the fact that I am respecting and honoring the people who have invited me.
Comfort will always come first. For me, comfort doesn't necessarily have to do with only fitting or fabric. One should also see if they are feeling awkward in that garb
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| Boman Irani walks on the runway at the Happy New Year first look launch |
Does the same rule apply when you are at work?
Of course! I always tell myself, "I should dress up a little more correctly." Its not that I am sitting in a car or my home, I am at work. In between shots or post shoot, there will be some kids who would end up approaching me for an autograph or picture. For them, it could just be their first picture with an actor and hence, you need to make it special for them. You can't be looking shabby, sloppy or drab. Wearing unironed clothes or making a poorly dressed appearance would be disrespectful to the child's emotions and his picture/autograph. Following such rules is the real comfort for me. Same thing applies when I step out for red carpet events. You need to respect the fact that 50 photographers are waiting there to click your pictures. Also, your body languages needs to match your outfit. The way you stand also shows your comfort level.
While your event appearances are quite dapper, your characters often wear a different look.
None of my characters in films have had a dapper appearance. Every character requires a different touch. For example, let's take Virus (3 Idiots). Now, that guy is frozen in time. If I think, hey, let's make the character look smashing, that's like not staying true to the character. On the other side, you have got Tammy (Happy New Year) who loves all things fashionable, so he will stick to that.
In between shots or post shoot, there will be some kids who would end up approaching me for an autograph or picture. For them, it could just be their first picture with an actor and hence, you need to make it special for them
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| While Boman handpicked the outfits worn by Virus (right), he was also involved in creating the right look for Tammy (left) |
Do you have a say in the costume department, when the team is busy creating your final look for a film character?
Yes, there have been times when I have given inputs and decided my outfits for a particular character. It helps, because I have understood and internalized the character. Without sounding like I am giving you a lesson in acting (smiles), in Classic acting, you first work the internals, think, heart, thought processes, mind and then work your way outwards. The moment you understand that part, you will know what you need to wear. Like, if I am playing a corporate person and I rehearse in a pair of jeans and casual tee, trust me, my rehearsal will not go well. But, the moment I wear an outfit suitable for my character, the body language, walk, bearing and even the way you hold your chin, will be determined by the internals, which blend with the externals. And then, it works.
If you ask me, if you don't work on the internals, the externals will never work. Its not just about putting on some fancy clothes.
Any character portrayed by you whose look was designed by you?
Virus! For that character, I didn't work with any filmy tailor. We locked a local tailor, and I didn't even show him my face (laughs). Through instructions, I told him to make super high waist trousers, in drill (fabric) and use thread buttons (not the fancy ones). For the shirts, when I visited a shop to buy the material, the store manager kept taking me to the area where the most expensive stuff was stocked. I kept saying, I need the cheapest material. But that guy insisted and kept saying, "Yaar, aisa mat karo! If you buy the Rs 50 per meter material, what will my customers say? I'll show you the best shirting." I made myself very clear, that I would only buy the cheap fabric now, and would come back to buy the better ones for personal use later. So, everything that you see on Virus is handpicked by me. Even for Tammy, I sat with Farah and designed the entire look on my own. We tweaked the outfits in between, especially during the Dubai parts, because he should look like a traveler. So, we added hats and other accessories. But, the sling bag was Farah's idea. Forget films, even for my daughter's wedding, people got fancy togs for me. But I just said, throw it all off. I put together the same, simple suit. And just jazzed it up by wearing a new tie.
Virus! For that character, I didn't work with any filmy tailor. We locked a local tailor, and I didn't even show him my face
-- By Priya Adivarekar --
