My Favorite CFDA Nominees

With the CFDA (Council of Fashion Designers of America) Awards just a day away, I thought I should take some time out and talk about my two of my favorite nominees.

So were any of you surprised when Alexander Wang was nominated and that too for two categories (women's wear designer of the year and accessory designer of the year)? I sure as hell wasn’t. Considering his career graph has been on a constant rise, especially since he was hired to replace Nicolas Ghesquière at Balenciaga, the nomination was just a matter of time.

Alexander Wang

That was one hell of a promotion (obviously not in the literal sense), I mean at 29, holding the position of creative director at one of the most legendary fashion houses; that’s some phenomenal achievement. With Anna Wintour as an ardent supporter and Diane Von Furstenberg as a mentor, it’s a no brainer that Wang was bound to go places.

I absolutely love Alexander Wang. I think he’s really nailed the shabby chic look, not to mention he’s really given sportswear a fashionable twist. If it wasn’t for him, I would have continued to despise bucket bags and backpacks! Those who know his products well know what I’m talking about. That’s the thing about new designers; they really bring a fresh approach to designing with them. By the way, the minute I saw his Pelican bag, I was in love. I ordered the Pelican clutch in a matter of minutes, literally!

Charlize Theron with a black Pelican bag

Pelican Sling Crossbody

Nicky Hilton with the classic Diego bucket bag

Diego Bag

But you know what, when I saw his debut collection for Balenciaga, I have to say I wasn’t in awe. Raf Simons for example, now his first collection for Dior was jaw dropping and that too couture so you can imagine the pressure. Not to say I hated Wang for Balenciaga, but I was so used to the quirks and eccentricity of Ghesquiere’s designs, and for some reason I didn't feel the shock value.

The dress presented in look 17 was such a simple dress, so simple that I was shocked by its simplicity. Maybe I sound retarded and maybe one might think I don’t know fashion, but to me a fashion show is somewhat of a warped reality. You know the clothes presented on the runway are supposed to take you to a fantasy land, that dress was banal. I could be totally off, and perhaps I’m not taking into consideration the wearability factor, the fabrics, stitching etc. however, I can say for sure that the dress didn't entice me one bit.

Alexander Wang for Balenciaga look no. 17

My favorite look from the Alexander Wang for Balenciaga collection

But you know what, that might be just me being silly. I just realized I turned something so positive into negativity!!! Ok no seriously, I think Wang has so much potential and considering the pressure involved in joining one of the most important fashion houses in history, it is slightly unfair to expect the young designer to get it all right at the first go. With that being said, I wish Alexander Wang all the best and hope he continues to bring in those awards!

My next favorite was Tim Blanks who received the annual media award from the CFDA and needless to say he deserves it. You know as an aspiring fashion journalist, reading Tim’s reviews are crucial. His reviews are so tough to decipher and his writing skills are beyond brilliant (they put most of us so called writers to shame!). What truly inspires me about his writing is his ability to see beyond the clothes, it’s a lot more complex than that. The writing really takes you into the designer’s head and gives you a deeper understanding as to what inspired a certain collection. And what I admire even more is that in today’s world of massive advertising, he like Suzy Menkes is honest in his opinion.

Time Blanks in a Prada shirt

Whilst a lot of journalists are afraid of writing what they really think in the fear of being banned from the shows by the designers, Tim Blanks isn’t scared to critique a collection. If someone doesn’t critique it, how else will designers further challenge themselves or know what is expected of them each season? It’s easy to rant about how fab a collection is and how gorgeous the bags were, but can you really sit there and actually understand each silhouette, deconstruct it mentally and be able to point out what’s not right about it? Can you imagine the thorough understanding required to actually be able to critique it? Very few journalists have the ability and the audacity to do that.

My idols; Tim Blanks & Suzy Menkes

Just like Anna Wintour has the power to make a multi-billion dollar industry rise and fall at her whim, a review by Tim Blanks can make or break a collection presented during fashion weeks. “A good review from Tim is very important” said Raf Simons on a video for the journalist on Style.com. Congratulations on the award Tim, you inspire us budding journalists with every word you pen down. 

SS 13 Top Trends in Swim

Peak of the uber hot Indian summer has me looking for excuses to dive in -- anytime. Then Hanadi's been badgering me to write a post in midst of a bad writer's block; so I thought, how about interpreting Spring-Summer 2013's biggest trends in some drool-worthy swimwear. Yeah I know (laughing).

B/W: The eternal clash of the opposites have dominated runways this year. Roger Vivier, Proenza Schouler, Celine, Chanel, Buran Uyak, Givenchy, Alexander Wang, Lanvin, Valentino, Moschino and more have nailed stark -- almost absent palettes -- juxtaposing them with sexy silhouettes in this fabulous monotone revolution. Get your beach dose in this ruched and I must say, very classy one-shouldered number by Norma Kamali.

Floral: Blah florals went totally fab this season! I mean imagine, even Bottega Veneta did florals in their most original avatars. I am sure all of you must have feasted on the Prada black, white and red numbers, and the appliqued-on delights of Chanel. Marc Jacobs also stayed true to the quintessential flowery element by using a generous sprinkling of print. Be the flower girl in this two-piece ruffled bikini by Zimmermann.

Neon Pop: Alright, loud and quirky brash colours never did go out of style right? Would you guys agree? Neon was big as usual this year too. Besides just clothing, these delightful streaks of fun were seen on eyes, nails, and accessories. Louis Vuitton went yellow... Calvin Klein dived the red route... Tom Binns went full glorious rainbow-style... And Simone Rocha went Luxor highlighter green! Mix all of it up in this geometric cut-out swimsuit by Agent Provocateur.

Blue Splash: Cerulean, cobalt, aqua to indigo, fancy shades of blue were seen in creations by the houses of Burberry, Elie Saab, Cacharel, Michael Kors, Monique Lhuillier, Nicholas Kirkwood amongst others. Cool and soothing irrespective of metallic or mute undertones, this embellished bandeau-bikini by Tara Mathews has bling as an exciting add-on.  

Striped Vintage: More notably, a sixties revival was seen this year in the collections of Moschino, PPQ, Victoria Beckham, Jenny Packham and Giles. Another huge trend was stripes in a bold form seen in Acne, Balmain, Oscar de la Renta, Jonathan Saunders, MSGM, Vivenne Westwood, et cetera. Clubbing the two styles is this fabulous two-piece by Dolce & Gabbana in a juicy shade of mandarin.    

Other dominating trends were all-whites, metallics, sheers, all-blacks, and more. But that is a story for another lazy day! Much love! 

Haute News: Suzy Menkes wardrobe auction

The world of fashion journalism is cut-throat. A combination of right clout, networking, and an eye for success are a few of the essentials that go into moulding a fashion writer of iconic stature -- and not to forget, it all needs to be enveloped by a generous dosage of personal charisma translated into paper. One generally tends to associate a lot of glamour with the 'job'. And very few actually end up receiving global recognition for their work; we budding enthusiasts dream of being in that category some day in our lives.

However, one stereotype that is almost always associated with them is snobbishness. They are labelled as tough personalities who rein with an iron grip, who are extremely difficult to please, and who dictate and rule the trend scenario on their whim. I can bet a lot of names are popping into your heads that conform to the above said. I do not defy it though. It is a part of the job and toughness eliminates mediocrity, my dad always says. Then there's the second category of editors who have revolutionised fashion with their unorthodox approach, like Hanadi had elaborated on an earlier post here. Then there is the third genre; loved by all that have had an opportunity to work with them -- those who have an unparalleled sense of balance -- and to be more precise, the likes of Suzy Menkes.

Suzy Menkes

British born Menkes has served as head fashion editor and reporter for the International Herald Tribune since 1988. One of the most respected authorities on everything fashion till date, she is loved by all for her fairness and holistic strategy of working. Besides successfully launching many a careers in the industry with an impeccable eye for talent, having authored numerous books, and winning many hearts along the way with her spectacular impartiality, here is one woman who shatters the traditional take on the high-handedness of the fashion world.

Entering the fashion arena at a time when contemporary aesthetics were just in their initial stirrings, Menkes with her intuition and sense for nailing and encompassing everything at a global context lent her the reputation of a legend. She can make or break a career, yet coming from her, you would know that it was done with much thoughtfulness, sans outside influences and favouritism. One of the instigators of "not limited to famous mammoth fashion houses and names", Menkes indeed and much deservedly holds the Legion d'Honneur in France and a British OBE. Oh BTW, even though she's is an immortal figure in front rows of the world's most important showings, you can read about her tips on crashing fashion shows here.

Commemorating 20 years of Menkes' contribution to the fashion world with industry moguls in Paris last year

A homage to her in every appropriate way, fans of Menkes can now bid at an auction to be commenced by Christies starting July 11 until 22. A collection of around 80 very personal memorabilia in the form of fabulous Clarks, Puccis to Lacroixs, majority of the lot is expected to sell under GBP 1,000. The fraternity has already started speculating about a most covetable Saint Laurent jacket from his 1980 collection which would be a collector's dream come true at a fraction of private prices.

Menkes said in a statement, "I have never thrown anything out of my wardrobe since 1964. If I had a large open space in my home, I would dedicate it, like an art gallery, to my collection. But there is something sad about clothes laid in a tomb of trunks. They need to live again and this auction provides the opportunity for them to walk out in the sunshine, to dance the night away and to give someone else the joy that they gave to me."

Summer Holiday Essentials

Today I’m in an exceptionally fabulous mood as I leave tomorrow for my Dubai home for a few weeks and then off to a vacation with the husband! Of course this means me having to sit down and pack at some point during the day, however, knowing me I’ll probably be running around like a headless chicken tomorrow unable to decide what essentials to pack and probably end up taking everything I own! Despite the fact that I travel nearly every three weeks and have been doing so for the last two years, packing is something I’m just pathetic at.

You know sometimes it’s just so hard to decide what to take and what not to take. There are the day clothes, the evening clothes, the “I feel fat” clothes, the shoes that coordinate with the outfits, what if the weather is cold, what if it’s hot, oh god I’m already getting dizzy thinking about it! It doesn’t help that the husband’s voice is echoing in my ears “Hanadi make sure you pack light”, “Hanadi, I swear I’m going to go through your suitcase to check everything you've decided you need”, “Hanadi, you’re only allowed to take one handbag”! I just can’t catch a break!

Anyways since I've got my holiday mode turned on, I figured might as well start making a list of essentials I need to shop for as soon as i hit Dubai. Going on a vacation ALWAYS requires shopping (shopping on a holiday is a whole other concept). What you pack also depends on where you go, however, certain essentials are imperative to pack on any summer holiday!

1.       Miu Miu Bow Bandeau Swimsuit – No matter where you are this summer (unless you love visiting cold countries) you are bound to hit the pool/beach and when you do, this retro swimsuit is just what you need. Click here to purchase.

2.       Micheal Kors Raffia Shopper – I love raffia bags for the summer and this one is just adorable. I love how its roomy enough to fit all my essentials and stylish at the same time. The price tag doesn't hurt either! Click here to purchase.

3.       Clinique Moisture Surge Face Spray Thirsty Skin Relief – I think the name says it all here! Check with the Select City Walk store for availability.

4.       Clinique Super City Block Oil-Free Daily Face Protector – A sunscreen is a must have for anywhere, however, if you’re playing tourist and are going to be out and about all day then this super light sunblock is a must have. Check with the Select City Walk store for availability.

5.       Zara Floral Printed Summer Dress – No summer vacation is complete without a floral dress. The best part about this dress is that it can work both day and night. Check the Zara boutiques in Delhi for availability.

6.       Dolce & Gabbana Leopard Print Passport Cover – I love this passport cover! The Mont Blanc one my husband wanted to get me was so boring. This on the other hand doubles my excitement of leaving on a jet plane!! Click here to purchase.

7.       Tory Burch Flamingo Cosmetic Case – The colourful flamingo is just SO cute. Click here to purchase.

8.       Lanvin Partition Camera Bag – Well, what can I say about this gorgeous wristlet? Use it to protect your digicam during the day and party with it at night. Oh by the way, it’s in scrumptious python skin. Sadly not available in India. But remember I talked about shopping whilst on a holiday? This is exactly what you need to buy.

9.       Karl Lagerfeld T-shirt – Cotton tees are a must have during a holiday. They're non fussy and easy to pack and this one especially is so fun. I love Karl’s illustration on it; gives a simple tee a stylish touch. Click here to purchase.

10.   Rag & Bone Frayed Denim Shorts – Perfect to pair with your Karl Lagerfeld tee! Click here to purchase.

11.   Casadei Patent Leather Sandals – You can’t be walking around all day on a vacation in heels. A pair of stylish yet comfortable flats are a must have, else you’ll be complaining of aching feet all day long and that’s not fun. These Casadei sandals are comfortable enough to walk around in and the green colour is bright and cheery. Click here to purchase.

12.   B Brian Atwood Fontanne Stacked Heel – Its advisable to carry only one pair of heels and these black Brian Atwood’s are just the right pair. The colour and its classic silhouette can be paired with virtually any outfit. Click here to purchase.

13.   Charlotte Olympia C’est La Vie Clutch – Sometimes you just don’t feel like carrying a tote with a million things in it. This stylish clutch is just the right size to carry all your essentials and you can also use it on a night out. Oh and it also comes with a comb! Click here to purchase.

14.   Missoni Beach Towel – I love the shades of blue on this towel. Instantly reminds me of the ocean! Click here to purchase.

15.   3.1 Philip Lim March Garfield Sunglasses – These retro inspired sunglasses are so chic and instantly glamorise any outfit. Click here to purchase.  

Love in the Making of Luxury....

Growing up, I always heard my mom express her dislike for mass produced products. She was never one to buy shoes or bags that were manufactured in a cost cutting way (trying to be more diplomatic when I say this!). It was always “oh beta see these shoes, they are made in France or Italy or England, etc. Naturally, as I grew older, this dislike for mass production had somewhat been embedded in my system. I mean it wasn't just shoes, when I was about 13, we were holidaying in Spain, when my parents decided to head over to Valencia to check out some exquisite furniture. Lo and behold, they had decided to renovate our apartment in Dubai by ordering their furniture from a designer in Spain. Of course, it was all handmade, with opulent Alcantara upholstery, goose down cushions, and god knows what. A few months later, it was all shipped to our Dubai home. The rugs were also handmade and were bought from a French brand named Roche Bobois. By the way, sixteen years later, most of the furniture looks as good as new in my parent’s living room. Anyways, so this emphasis on where things are made and how they were made now is always in my head whenever I buy anything, be it furniture, clothes or accessories. Of course one does need to spend a lot of money when you buy products that are handmade in Europe and that counts as a major factor in the decision making process.

My parent's living room

My parent's dining room

What most people don’t fathom about the concept of luxury is that it’s really not about how much you spend. With the nouveau riche on the rise (especially in Delhi), people equate spending oodles of money to luxury and I find that idea abhorrent. Hardly anyone cares about the quality, stitching, finishing or craftsmanship. Its all about “oh this is expensive, lets buy it”. I was watching a Suzy Menkes interview the other day where she mentions how she hates the word luxury and that its not about flashy stuff. She says it’s a very personal concept and how to her, luxury is about the feel or the touch of something or how it is made and how a certain garment feels wonderful to wear and not something you have to chat about to other people.

And you know what, I agree with her totally. Why do I love designer handbags? Why have I not bought a high street bag in as long as I can remember? Well, handmade items are made with so much love, attention and skill. The leather that designers use is treated in the best possible way, the artistry is so beautiful and overall, these products are made to last. Take for an example a Dior bag that mum purchased about 20 years ago. Imagine, my sister uses that bag now and you know what, the gold hardware, I kid you not, is still the way it is. The gold has not tarnished more than 10 per cent in 20 years! Same goes for my vintage lizard skin Judith Leiber clutch. I know for a fact that I can pass down my Chanel 2.55 to my daughter (whenever I have kids!) in fantastic condition because it is so finely made. That is what luxury is to me.

Mum's twenty something year old Dior purse

A very blurry photo of my vintage Judith Leiber clutch 

The making of the Gucci Soft Stirrup Bag. Image Courtesy: Gucci

When I was 18, I always wondered why Hermes products were so expensive and what was the hullabaloo about the scarves and their bags, etc. I then started doing my research and read a lot of about what goes into the making of each of their products. Their artisans have been with them for decades and exhibit impeccable craftsmanship and attention to detail. Everything from the leather, the colours, the stitching is a work of art. The scarves involve thousands of hours of work and likewise for their other merchandise. As times go by, many brands do resort to adopting modern technology, but Hermes is one brand that despite changing times, still sticks to its roots when it comes to production. Of course that doesn’t mean one doesn’t adopt some sort of new technology, but for the most part, Hermes is extremely traditional when it comes to the making of their luxury goods. That is REAL luxury.

For those who really care for what goes behind the making of Hermes goodies, check out their short film; Hearts and Crafts. Click here to be directed to the site. You can also view the teaser below.

Whilst you're at it, go ahead and the see the making of the Gucci Bamboo Bag too!

Pardon my French

Hello everyone!!

As a blogger, I am a huge Garance Dore fan. Her series of videos named "Pardon my French" are just so adorable and are such a fresh take on blogging. Today I wanted to share with you her video for the Lady Dior in Tokyo. Just watch the video and I'm sure you'll fall in love with her just like I did.

On a hot summer day...

Oh god, Delhi temperatures seem to be sky rocketing by the minute and to think of going out during the day is just dreadful. But of course, all of you have busy schedules be it running to pick your kids from school, socializing, heading for meetings or whatever. What does one do to dress up in this heat?! On most occasions, I just feel like putting on a long cotton Pakistani style kurta paired with tights, but of course that can’t possibly work all the time.

Anyways, so the deal is it’s hot and we have to deal with it. Placing ourselves under house arrest till 7pm is not a solution and dressing like a garbage bag isn't either. So I figured why not have fun with what we wear despite the soaring temperatures. Summer is all about bright colours and cheerful prints even if it’s so hot you could melt. Here’s what I’m feeling to cheer me up from all this heat.

1.       Marc by Marc Jacobs Cat Eye Sunglasses – Click here to purchase.

2.       Dolce & Gabbana Printed Silk-Twill Top – The duo’s SS 13 collection was just so cheerful and SO Italian.One glance at this top and I feel like jet setting to Sicily and stay there forever. The printed lemons are so  happy and make me nostalgic about my Italian vacation a few years ago. Just perfect for one of those days  when you’re sulking about the weather and need something to brighten your day. Click here to purchase.

3.       Celine Case Bag – So you’ll notice a lot of Celine in my blog posts simply because I LOVE Phoebe’s  creations. This bag in delicious orange is a must have for any occasion.Check with Kitsch at DLF Emporio  for availability.

4.       Dolce & Gabbana Floral Print Headscarf – Wearing a headscarf is so retro.Makes me want to jump in a vintage car and go on a road trip with my girls.Click here to purchase.

5.       Tory Burch Straight Leg Pants – A pair of white cropped pants is a wardrobe staple and can be paired with everything. Click here to purchase.

6.       Hermès Calèche Enamel Bracelet – Check with the Oberoi boutique for availability.

7.       Stella McCartney Neon Trim Espadrilles – I think espadrilles are so summery. Be it flats or wedges they  really are perfect for the day especially in bright colours. Click here to purchase.