Showing posts with label Summer. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Summer. Show all posts
Love Struck
As winter transcends to spring, the month of February is already upon us (wow! almost a fortnight done). Needless to say, the month is synonymous with the feeling of being love! With blooming flowers, tropical vibes and a tinge of red all around; one can't miss the whiff of love in the air. Promises, roses and moments of mushy-ness. The endless list of date night ideas. Updates and posts that follow. Nothing can match upto the feeling of being in love. Sigh! It's wonderful, isn't it?
But, have you looked at yourself in the mirror, and showered some words of compliments? A subtle, "You look wonderful today," from a special someone creates a flutter in our stomach, doesn't it? How about we tweak things a bit and say this to ourselves, just once in a while? Learning to love yourself and being comfortable in one's skin is the most liberating and beautiful feeling. When no one stands by, you have yourself. When all else fails, you can motivate yourself. No one can love you better, if you fail to love yourself first. So, stop being harsh and learn to love! This valentine's day, give yourself some much needed love. Compliment yourself, and smile. Don't wait for someone else to make a difference! Love thy self fiercely, folks. So much, that when others see you, they know exactly how it should be done.
This one's for the person who makes me smile! You know who you are. Love and light, always ❤️
Here's wishing the entire #DancebeeFam a very Happy Valentine's Day! Hope you had a great time with your loved one, and shall always continue to do so.
How did you celebrate Valentine's Day? Join the conversation on
Love,
The Dancebee
Beauty on a Budget | Top Summer Skincare Essentials Under Rs 500
Here we go again!! Beauty on a Budget is back, and this time, we are ready to present skin care saviours that are perfect to beat the heat. I mean, c'mon! It's that time of the year again. The scorching heat and humidity leaves your skin feeling sweaty, full of grime and dust. Plus, the pollution adds more woes. For those with sensitive skin like me, add some redness and rashes to top it all. The skin feels dehydrated and dull at most times. So, we can do with a 'hero' product, that can save us from all the skin issues that pop up, all thanks to this blazing hot weather. Plus, easy on the pocket as well!
To beat those summer skin issues away, it's important to tweak your routine with the perfect product, that suits your skin type and concern (if any). In this post, we have a round up of some tried and tested skincare products, that will ensure your skin feels fresh and the wallet looks super happy. Take notes, will ya!!
One of our favourite cleansers, which helps keep impurities at bay. It works effectively, while gently cleansing on your skin. All this, without stripping off the natural oils or leaving your skin feeling too dry / dehydrated. The result? Squeaky clean, fresh skin.
Price: Rs 375 (50ml)
Skin Type: All Skin Types
What we love? - SLES and Paraben free. Plus, this cleanser is non-comedogenic. A little very product goes a long way, and the fragrance is absolutely divine. Clearly, lots to love here!
Everybody loves a light weight, non-sticky sunscreen! And, this product is all that and more. For those with oily skin, this product is a must have.
Price: Rs 398 (100ml)
Skin Type: Normal to Oily Skin
What we love? - Provides good sun protection, especially in the Indian weather. The gel based formula ensures that the skin does not feel too greasy, and the texture isn't too heavy either. Leaves a matte finish, which works as a good base for make up as well.
All of us can do with an effective toner in Summer, especially those with Normal to Oily or Combination Skin type. This alcohol free toner is your best bet, as it helps control excess sebum, while leaving your skin feeling fresh!
Price: Rs 320 (100ml)
Skin Type: Normal to Oily / Combination / Acne Prone
What we love? - The toner contains properties that helps tighten pores, control sebum and helps clear blemishes. Good fragrance, and the product has a decent shelf life.
A light weight gel that is perfect to soothe sensitive skin. It also works well for those with other skin types as a primer, or just a base that can keep your skin feeling healthy, refreshed and ready.
Price: Rs 200
Skin Type: All Skin Types
What we love? - Non-sticky with a fine texture. Absorbs really well and leaves your skin feeling soft and cool. Does not leave the skin feeling too heavy. Works brilliantly as a base for make up or remaining skin care routine. Also, we love the packaging.
One product that we can't leave our homes without (especially in this heat) is -- A face mist! The cooling properties in this face mist is perfect to give your skin instant boost on a hot afternoon. One spritz and you feel refreshed. Ready to take over, one task at a time.
Price: Rs 225 (50ml - also available in 200ml)
Skin Type: All Skin Types
What we love? - The product is steam distilled and 100% natural, which means there is no room for skin issues. It works well with all skin types, and the fragrance leaves you feeling relaxed. A complete must have!
What's better than coming back home to a sheet mask, cup full of your favourite beverage, tv show and some time to unwind? Ultimate bliss, isn't it? This product helps your skin soak up on some essential serums, that can help your skin feel soft and supple. Oh, and totally ready for the long week ahead. Our pick for Summer? The Aloe Mask.
Price: Rs 100
Skin Type: All Skin Types
What we love? - Aloe is the perfect ingredient for summer, as it leaves your skin feeling cool and calm. The moisture rich aloe properties in this mask helps moisturise and soothe your skin, without leaving it feel too heavy.
There you go! Stock up on your favourites and ensure your skin feels fresh and cool all through the month of May. Do you have a favourite that's not on this list? Let us know by leaving a comment below or join the conversation on
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Love,
The Dancebee
Twitter | Facebook | Snapchat | Instagram | YouTube
Love,
The Dancebee
Back to Basics | Summer Essentials
Some summer trends may come and go, but certain basic essentials will always be in vogue. Especially those from your summer side of the wardrobe. As the temperature shoots up, all our favourite tees, comfortable denims, shorts and comfy shoes make a comeback. There will always be that one pair of jeans you will never get enough of, or a crisp white shirt that has been your wardrobe staple since forever. Every girl has got a list of basics that they can't do without. Well, needless to say, I have got mine too. Here are some basic pieces that should make it's way into your wardrobe:
A white crew neck tee
Pair of well fitted Blue Jeans
A crisp white shirt
Pair of pumps (either nude or black. I prefer the former)
A bright coloured bag
Pair of flat sandals in a neutral colour
A statement watch
Pair of sunglasses
A basic denim jacket (In summer - mostly for the cinemas)
A pair of white sneakers
The most basic yet timeless look that I swear by would be the white shirt / tee + blue denim combination. It is the most versatile look that can be amped up with a bold lip, statement eyes or just, some really cool accessories. Plus, you can easily take it from day to night by switching from your sneakers to a pair of pumps. However, I like to take the minimalist route. A statement watch and pair of sunglasses are the only two accessories I need to complete my favourite summer look. For winter, I like to layer this look with a jacket or even a long trench.
Outfit: Zara, Levi's and Swatch Watches | Photography: Ranveer Dua
Location: J.W Sahar, Mumbai
What are your favourite summer essentials? Drop a comment below or join the conversation on
Love,
The Dancebee
Staying Organised in the Digital World
Yes, this is an outfit post. I am back with one after quite sometime (and I apologise for being MIA in this space). Summer is almost here and it has got us craving for some beach time, or just lazying around the pool. It's also the time to sport relaxed casuals, breathable fabrics and some of my favourite colours. This season, I am crushing on tropical hues. But, before I start straying away from the main topic, let me tell you - this is not your usual #ootd post. We are here to discuss a little more than just fashion.
The last decade got us absorbed into the digital world. Hectic lifestyle, multitasking and running around for errands ensured that we turn to the digital world for faster updates. From reading books to catching up on breaking news and discussions with friends, the digital takeover is hard to ignore. While those working outside the 'world of web' can afford the luxury of a 'digital detox', it's not the same for folks like me. Website editors, bloggers and influencers literally 'live' in the digital world. Reading updates, research, shortlisting ideas, keeping a check on trends, editing and publishing content, it's all happening out there! Basically, our 'roti, kapda aur makaan' pretty much depends on this fast paced digital sphere, jo kabhi nahi rukta.
Personally, I have never been a 'phone' person. I remember how during a conversation with friends about how much they love their phones and can't do without it, I remember choosing my iPod over the phone. I was never into long calls or constant messaging. I would rather meet a person and chat for hours, than depend on SMS. However, times have changed and it's like the entire world is now on our finger tips. Be it 'trending' news, stories or updates, I get a lot of it covered while on the go. So, the phone pretty much helps me with a lot of tasks throughout the day. Though, I still like those 'rare days' when I have the luxury of keeping my phone away for a few hours to watch a film or read a book (or better, create new dance routines).
However, off late, I have been turning to my phone (and iPad) for apps that help organise, schedule and also, boost productivity in more ways than one. While I do maintain a traditional diary for scheduling and other important tasks, some of these supremely efficient apps also help. Especially when I have to create lists or check my schedule for the week, and the diary is not around. Overtime, I have used these apps frequently, and they've been nothing less than a boon. For those who like to stay organised, I am quite sure some of these apps will make their way into your smartphone soon.
Evernote: One of my favourite apps. Evernote does a great job of syncing important notes, to-do lists among a host of different stuff across all connected devices. Easily accessible and very easy to share. You can also create groups to collaborate with members and discuss projects, share notes, lists. The best part? Use the camera to scan documents. They have both paid and free packages. Hands down, a must have for every individual, especially entrepreneurs and those working in the digital space.
Wunderlist: Another favourite (and a frequently used app). I've been using Wunderlist on three devices. It does a fab job of syncing and scheduling to-do lists. I also use it to share work lists with my team. It also helps while delegating work within the team / department. Works as a great tool to collaborate on and create lists for different requirements.
Pocket: Bookmarking websites or a post on social media individually? It will never be the same once you have Pocket. Yes, Evernote does this for you too. But, Pocket is a fairly easy to use option, especially for those who find Evernote a little too overwhelming. There are times when I am reading an article and may stop it midway, due to a task or interruption. Pocket can save links, videos or clips from the web or social media for you to read / watch later. Plus, it also has a great text-to-speech feature. Do try!
Peek Calendar: Wait! You already have an in-built calendar (on both iOS and Android) devices. So, why this? Well, Peek is not your average calendar. This efficient scheduling app has a sleek interface, that can help you take a 'sneak peek' into upcoming events, scheduled meetings and other notifications faster than other apps. Peek has some really cool features, including interactive and immersive gestures. Completely customisable and flexible, the Peek calendar costs $2.99, but honestly, it is worth every penny.
Spendee: A simple, easy to use app that keeps track of your budgets and finance. It also provides an analysis of your income and expenditure through infographics. You can manually add savings / expenses or choose to connect your bank account. Spendee brings me back to reality, every time I feel like splurging on a luxury time (unless, of course, I have saved enough over time to buy it).
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| Outfit Details: Zara, Adidas Originals and Swatch |
Well, these are some of my favourite apps to stay organised. The ones that keep me hooked on to my phone, when I am not typing updates or editing images / clips for social media. Time management is quite a task in this fast paced life, that often throws surprises at you. However, these apps do their bit and ensure you stay on track in between a hectic week.
Shot by: Ranveer Lovely Dua
Location: JW Sahar, Mumbai
Hair and MUA: Reeshik for Team Dancebee
Do you have a favourite app or would like to try one of these? Leave a comment below or join the conversation on Twitter | Facebook | Snapchat | Instagram
Love,
The Dancebee
The LFW Round Up with Dancebee | Day 5
It all comes down to the day when the celebrations hits a peak and preps for the grand finale kick off in style. After a week long fashion fiesta, the last day at Lakmè Fashion Week was a glam affair with striking appearances and some memorable showcases. Apart from some celebrity showstoppers, the day also saw a huge turnout at some much awaited showcases, especially that of designer Gaurang Shah. For those of you who missed all the action on our social media platforms, here's the lowdown from Day 5 at Lakmè Fashion Week.
Movements of the Sea at Abha Choudhary's 'Coral 101' and Sustaintable elements at Raamz Design Studio's 'Geo-Metron'
Ode to Bridal Wear at Anushree Reddy's 'An Indian Summer' and Garden Romance at label Vrisa's 'Bagh-e-Gul'
Elegance personified with Gaurang Shah's 'Muslin'
Abstract textures with Paridhi Jaipuria and Intricate embroideries with Jayanti Reddy
Relaxed vibes at Khanijo's 'Summer Sojourn' and Timeless story of love at Vineet-Rahul's 'Gulnar'
Regal glamour at Divya Reddy's 'Shahibzadi'
The Bidri Magic with Sashi Vangapalli
Pick of the Month | The Body Shop British Rose Review
Who doesn't love smelling like a bunch of fresh flowers and enjoying supple skin all day long? Well, we sure do and when the folks at The Body Shop introduced us to their new range - British Rose about a month back, we were both super happy and a little skeptical. Happy, because the packaging took our breath away, and skeptical because our past experiences with products that contain Rose as the main ingredient wasn't very memorable. Fortunately for us, the British Rose range was nothing like the stuff that made us cringe at the whiff of a strong rosy fragrance (remember, the kind of products that make you feel like you've bathed in rose attar). On the contrary, The Body Shop has got a luxurious and sinful collection in the form of British Rose, which is perfect to indulge in on a sultry afternoon. Read on to know more.
What? - The Body Shop British Rose Range
Products Reviewed: British Rose Body Scrub, British Rose Body Butter
Price: Rs 1295 and Rs 1095 respectively
Quantity: 250ml and 200ml respectively
What do they promise?: The British Rose range is a British interpretation of a timeless icon of femininity. Our organic roses are hand picked, air-dried and then infused. Giving us exceptional quality rose essence for our products, leaving you glowing.
The Body Shop British Rose Exfoliating Gel Body Scrub
What does it promise? - Exfoliating feels exquisite with this beautiful gel textured body scrub with real rose petals. Infused with the essence of roses from Britain, it effortlessly melts onto the skin and gently refines to reveal smoother, fresher skin.
Packaging: Housed in a chic black jar, which is sturdy and makes the product easy to use. We took it along on a trip and the product did not spill.
Our experience: Easily one of the best scrubs launched by The Body Shop in recent times, the British Rose Exfoliating Gel Body Scrub is gentle on the skin. True to its promise, the scrub leaves your skin feeling smooth and supple. The gel based texture of the scrub makes it perfect for even those with sensitive skin (and I am one of them). The rich fragrance of British Rose is soft and aromatic; enough to make your regular shower feel like a royal bath. The scrub does a great job of getting rid of dead skin cells and ensures that you leave the shower feeling clean and fresh. The fragrance lasts for a good 2-3 hours post shower.
The Body Shop British Rose Instant Body Glow Body Butter
What does it promise? - Indulge in dewy hydration with our first Body Butter with glow enhancing rose essence. Beautifully pearlescent, this velvety-soft moisturiser is light to the touch but rich on moisture. The product gives you an instant all-over healthy looking skin.
Packaging: This one is packed in the signature body butter jar by The Body Shop. Though, we like the rose pink hue, which makes the jar look very chic.
Our experience: Ah! The delightful aroma of hand-picked roses. Truly, The Body Shop has hit the bulls eye with this one. British Rose Instant Glow Body Butter is our favourite from the range. While we can't vouch for the 'glow' factor, it certainly does a great job of ensuring that your skin stays hydrated and soft for 6-7 hours. Plus, the fragrance is an added bonus, which is not too overpowering or subtle either. The soft, rosy aroma of the butter makes you feel fresh and delightful all day long. Keeping the humid weather of our city in mind, we were a bit nervous about applying a body butter on an afternoon that touched 36 degrees. However, despite being a body butter, the product is not too greasy or sticky. In fact, the silky butter glides on well and gets absorbed rather quickly. Perfect for dry and sensitive skin, especially those who are looking to pamper their skin and keep it well hydrated throughout the year. We loved it!
Pros
Delightful fragrance
The fragrance is not too overpowering
Elegant packaging
Rich and perfectly textured
Ensures soft and supple skin
Decent price points
Cons
The body butter has nothing to do with 'glow'
Verdict: This one is our 'Pick of the Month' for a reason. Our experience of using the products has been a pretty good one, especially the body butter. A shower with this scrub is equal to enjoying a luxurious bath with a tub full of water with rose petals. We highly recommend the British Rose range to those with normal to dry skin.
Have you tried this range? If yes, join the discussion on Twitter or leave your comments below to let us know your experience.
Love,
The Dancebee
