Resort 2014 Review - Alexander Wang

Alexander Wang’s resort 2014 collection was really a breath of fresh air. We saw PINK, yes PINK!! Aside from the pink factor, I loved the clothes presented in this collection especially the low slung leather pants which were very cool (I always thought leather would be uncomfortable to wear but these pants look extremely comfortable and sexy!), the leather peplum tops and miniskirts.

I also loved how most of the tops and dresses were very boxy; it gives the illusion of comfort whist being extremely stylish. Wang also showed off some fantastic techniques such as vacuum pressed pleating on some of the skirts, tops and elongated blazers. Two of my favorite pieces from the collection included a black, very boxy leather dress (a result of another one of his techniques!) paired with a dark vest in look 14 and a sleeveless grained/textured leather jacket paired with pink pants in look 5. 

The sweaters of course are a staple in Wang’s collections except this time it was metallic threads mixed with cellophane giving it a unique texture. What I didn't like much were the flat, very androgynous shoes; too masculine for my taste (to be honest I've never been a fan of his shoes). I did love the oversized clutch with the silver hardware jutting out at the base of the bag (very edgy looking and can protect the material of the bag too when you put it down!) and the whole distressed/cracked look (pardon me for not knowing the correct terminology!) the clutch has going on.

Snake-skin clutches for under 160 dollars or 10,000 Rupees!

Hi ladies! Okay so last night I made a new discovery, snake-skin clutches with delightful python prints on sale for under 160 dollars or 10,000 Rupees! Of course they aren't made in Italy or France and neither are they branded. But if you've been wanting an exotic skin clutch and haven’t been able to afford one as they are extremely expensive, now’s your chance.

So Blufly.com retails these beautiful Primary New York clutches from on their website and they have three colors on sale. The only catch here is that they are not delivered outside the United States, however most of us have friends and family in US and the website accepts international credit cards, so please hurry and order yours as they are on sale for literally 156 dollars! My favorite was this red printed python fold over envelope clutch. Click here to purchase.

The Victoria Beckham Story

Just a few days ago, my style icon, Victoria Beckham, was named “Woman of the Decade” at the Glamour Women of the Year Awards so I thought I should pen down my thoughts on her. I’ve been a Victoria Beckham fan since the Spice Girls took over the pop music scene and continue to be a huge fan. When I was about 18, I went on and bought her book “Learning to Fly” (named after a Pink Floyd song), read it page to page and finished it in two days.

Victoria Beckham with her son Brooklyn at the Glamour Awards 

I’m not sure what about her made me such a huge fan, it definitely wasn't her singing, maybe it was the way she dressed. I remember as a teenager, I always wanted to know what Posh Spice was wearing! I do recall her wearing a lot of black. At some point in my late teens, early 20’s I started using the line “that’s so major” because I heard Victoria Beckham say it all the time. I've even seen all her documentaries! Being Victoria Beckham, Coming to America, I’d seen them all!

The Spice Girls

Once the Spice Girls broke up, every band member including Victoria tried their hand at a solo career and sadly, none of them really succeeded. However, I’m really glad that Posh decided to venture into fashion design, because I never really thought of her a great singer, but fashion is where her greatest strength lies. She initially started designing by developing a successful line of denims and now she’s expanded into a full-fledged clothing line and handbags. She’s not the first celebrity turned designer, yet hers is one of the first few celebrity fashion empires that continue to grow with every passing season.

One would think it was easy for her to break into the fashion industry because of who she is, but that is not the case here. It came with a lot of preconceived notions and ridicule when she chose this career. I was watching her interview with Alexandra Shulman (editor of British Vogue)a few weeks ago at the Vogue Fashion Festival where she talks about presenting her first collection to various retailers and buyers over a period of four days. She goes on to mention how she deconstructed each garment (not literally)and explains over and over to different people the making of each dress, the fabrics used, etc. This goes to show that this isn’t a bored pop singer turned housewife trying to find a new hobby. This is someone who is genuinely talented, doesn't shy away from hard work and knows the ins and out of garment construction.

Victoria Bekcham SS 2009

That’s the most inspiring part, despite all the negativity; is that she’s now one of the most sought after designers in the industry. Anna Wintour quoted “don’t underestimate her” after viewing one of her collections which surely means you've made it or at least are on the path to making it. Sarah Jessica Parker, Cameron Diaz, Gwenyth Paltrow and lots more high profile celebrities swear by her signature sheath dresses. It’s not only Hollywood beauties that are seen in her designs; she’s taken over Bollywood stars as well. Sonam Kapoor, Deepika Padukone, Priyanka Chopra, Katrina Kaif, Natasha Poonawala have all been seen in her clothes.

Deepika Padukone in Victoria Beckham

Sonam Kapoor in Victoria Beckham

Cameron Diaz in Victoria Beckham

Gwennyth Paltrow in Victoria Beckham

Eva Longoria in Victoria Beckham

Katrina Kaif in Victoria Beckham

What I like best about her designs is how simple they are. I’ve noticed throughout the years, her dressing style has been very classic, minimalistic and feminine (and let’s not forget, extremely tight fitted) with an emphasis on impeccable tailoring, which is why no surprises here, her designs reflect her personal style. She quoted “ultimately I’m designing clothes that I want to wear myself”. I love how her dresses have zippers at the back; she says that way when you put them on, you’re not going to ruin your hair and make-up! I’m also a huge fan of the solid colors she uses in her designs.

Victoria in her own designs  

Her emphasis on quality is evident with every finished product. All her clothes for the main line are handmade in England whereas the bags are made in Italy. Even for her slightly more affordable line, Victoria, Victoria Beckham, she ensures that there is no compromise on quality. The fabrics for her Victoria line are top notch; the only difference is that they are made in Portugal where making costs are cheaper. Speaking of her diffusion line, if you think her main line is too formal for your taste, the Victoria line is very fresh and fun with prints (which you will NOT see in her Victoria Beckham collections). Of course the tailoring behind all her garments is very crucial to her and she pays attention to it at every step. Same goes for her bags.

She also places a great importance on what her customers want and you can see that in her evolving designs. Her initial collections showcased a lot of sheath dresses, whereas her more recent designs have now started to consist of separates and slightly looser silhouettes too. However, her signature dresses are never too far behind, and why not? They are after all the epitome of perfection.

But that’s not all that has me awestruck. The fact that she has four kids, who are always a priority in her life and you can see that, as her brood is never too far behind wherever she goes. One can easily say, oh it’s a façade celebrities put on to show how perfect their lives are, but I choose not to look at it that way. Every paparazzi shot you see of posh consists of her family right next to her, and not just her kids but her mum too and I think that’s just so sweet. I also love how she has no qualms about stating her flaws. If you watch her interviews, she’s confident about the mistakes she’s made and always adds humour to it.

The Beckhams

She’s proven that if one has to will to do something they can definitely do so. A successful designing career, a loving wife and mother; Victoria Beckham is truly an inspirational woman.

Designer buys under INR 5K or USD 90

A weekend that was off for me, I spent most of it catching up on some much needed sleep and spent my waking hours watching DVDs one after another. I am already dreading Monday thus to cheer myself up, I eagerly wait for several out of the following things to arrive in my mailbox! And none of them would make a dent in your wallet, trust me.

 

1. Silver gold-plated 3-stone statement ring by Amrapali at INR 1,050 or USD 19. While you are at it, you may want to check out the Manish Arora for Amrapali collection that is also priced afford-ably.
2. Zebra print canvas wedge sandals from Michael by Michael Kors at INR 4,726 or USD 84. There are other styles on offer in the same price range under the sales section at Saks.
3. Summery jelly flip flops with bow by RED Valentino at INR 4,081 or USD 72. I fell in love with this pair which is also available in a yellow option.
4. Contrast clip-on drop earrings by Kenneth Jay Lane at INR 2,148 or USD 38. KJL, at a fraction of prices -- I need not say more.
5. Leather box clutch with feather print from Love to Bag at INR 4,500 or USD 79.

6. Hair on leather mixed media clutch by Sanaya V Jain at INR 4,200 or USD 74.
7. 'What Recession' pouch by Rebecca Minkoff at INR 2,363 or USD 42.
8. Clear plastic checkmate pouch from Marc by Marc Jacobs at INR 2,921 or USD 52. Also under the sale section are many other Jacob numbers such as laptop sleeves, bathroom pouches, phone covers and iPad bags -- all at ounce prices.

9.  Bullet and tassel bracelet from Valliyan by Nitya at INR 3,500 or USD 62.
10. Sparkly feather earrings from ABS by Allen Schwartz Jewellery at INR 3,222 or USD 57.
11. Metallic leather thong sandals by Rachel Zoe at INR 3,222 or USD 57.
12. Hardcase for iPhone 5 by Diane Von Furstenberg at INR 1,718 or USD 30. I have also seen DVF clutches priced between 7K to 9K that are absolutely stunning seen frequently on celebs.
13. Bow thong sandals by Kate Spade New York at INR 3,351 or USD 59.

Special mention: The Gucci Katina rubber thong sandals that are making such a rage, that Saks had to put a ban on ordering more than three pairs in a span of thirty days! Priced at INR 11,048 or USD 195, you can order your colours here.

Gucci Katina rubber thongs

Monologue from the dapper dude’s diary

Pointy shoes, big buckles, and a lack of attention to the power of fine tailoring -- sartorial elegance in the Delhi brigade of men leaves much to be desired. Here I try and throw light on some basics in the art of fine dressing, the kind of basics that the modern man needs to build on, holding true to his individual sense of style.

   
Knowing your fit -- comfort and aesthetic -- is a cardinal building block for your wardrobe.

Like aforementioned, there is a neglect towards fine tailoring in men’s clothing. It’s a concept that holds value only to an esoteric set of men out there, the set that consciously takes on the task to get all the inches right.

# A pair of well tailored pants defines a man’s taste and personality. Be it the classic straight fit, a contemporary tapered fit or the vintage high-waisted loose fit, a well defined hem is fundamental to the pant silhouette. The domain encompasses casual day trousers to your fancy night out pants and determines the potential of the fit suitability.

# Moving on to the shirt; the good old staple white shirt. This timeless classic is no stranger to men but what separates fine from a mere necessity is a Crisp white shirt. When I say crisp I mean again- tailored sharp and precise with a flattering fit and attention to detail. From the cuff, collar and placket to the choice of cut that deems fit to your body type. Its most essential for every man to know what is the apposite shirt make for him; regular, custom, slim or even a super slim fit.

#  A man’s love for shorts will never die. So wear them but wear them right. Shorts in pops or pastels are the key. You may go as far as making a statement, with the short suits, paired with a linen coat or a crisp white shirt. But at all costs let go off the dowdy Bermudas. The new shorts are not overtly casual or fancy; rather it’s cleverly tweaked to give a better fit.  Step into these nicely tailored alternatives, so that your woman doesn't cringe the next time you choose to carelessly appear in your shorts.

#  It’s time men gave socks their due credit. Underrated but extremely essential, socks have untapped potential when it comes to making a fashion statement.  In the wake of cropped pants becoming a fashion staple, socks are no longer veiled, but an accessory which may very well pop out and add a tinge. Fear not from putting on a bright colour or quirky graphic, playfully hinting from the side of your trouser hems. And why just playful, nautical stripes & vintage patterns cut for a subtle yet dapper image.

In the age of Instagram and Twitter access and awareness have no bounds. Men in other parts of the world have been catching up and it’s definitely time for the Indian crop to mark their style grounds and come into their own. 

“But this burgeoning interest amongst men in the finer details of style and fashion is not limited to Japan. In a transnational tailoring trend that we have observed in cities as diverse as London, New York and Mumbai, we met with bespoke tailors serving a new generation of men, who are interested in sharp suits that fit into their urban lifestyles and have younger, cooler silhouettes.”

--Imran Amed for Business of Fashion

So stick to the periphery of your sartorial ease but always fine tune and refine it around the edges. 

Summer Sale Wish List!!

So it’s June and it’s officially SALE time, which is when I feel extremely ambivalent. I know that sounds retarded, but okay so what I get ecstatic about is all those gorgeous clothes and shoes marked down and what makes me sad is either I order impulsively and they never see the light of day again as they stay in my closet (I’ve got a pair of Brian Atwoods that I've never worn and a stunning silk Halston Heritage top which I wore only once amongst my impulsive online buys) or I like way too many things and can’t buy all of them. You see the dilemma?

It’s bad enough the in store sales have also started here in Dubai and I walked into Gucci hoping to spend some more money on another pair of flat sandals, except the damn place had nothing nice left (I heard there was a 2 hour long queue the day the sale started) so I guess the gods had showered the husband with lots of luck. Not to mention I leave for London in 10 days and apparently the day I reach is the day the Harrods sale starts!! I even told my friend to take me there right after she picks me from the airport (I land in the afternoon so I’m all set), except she thought I was behaving like a spoilt cow. Again the gods have showered the husband with all the luck. She says we should wait and on go on a Monday so there will be less people, but what the hell will I shop two days into the sale when everything is GONE? Whatever! I don’t understand why the husband has to have all the good luck.

I’ve been bombarded with emails from Saks Fifth Avenue, Matches Fashion (I'm a big online shopper since I get more variety to choose from) and so on about x percentage of discounts and bla bla. I’m doing everything in my power to stop myself. I already ordered and received a Giles by Giles Deacon illustrated canvas tote, however, I don't know exactly why I ordered it since I almost NEVER buy bags on sale. Oh, now i remember why I! Because it was free shipping, also, it was really cheap, I mean it was 82 pounds on sale and the free shipping saved me another 20 pounds!

Saks Fifth Avenue is on Sale!! Yaay!

Pardon my horrid photo shop skills!!

Anyways, so it’s the usual dilemma about what I really need and don’t need so this time, I thought I’d keep it real, you know, stick to the classics (if sale items can ever be called that). I saw these gorgeous Alice + Olivia pumps and the Saint Laurent Paris Tribute pumps on sale and my advice is to pick them up ASAP since the black and white trend is carrying forward to fall/winter too.  If you’re not in the mood to experiment and want to stick to the basics, then these blue satin Manolo Blahnik shoes are perfect as they have a classic silhouette and will last a few seasons.

I think the best time to buy jackets and blazers is on sale, at least you save some money there. What do you think of this J Brand X Christopher Kane denim biker jacket (that too at 50% off!)? I think it’s really cool to wear on a holiday and once Delhi has slightly cooler weather come October.

Okay, I’m squealing as I say this but my favourite Oscar De La Renta earrings are on sale and I’m giddy with excitement! Sadly I can’t order them to India directly from their website, but thank god for friends in the States. I’ve been watching these damn earrings since they came out in the spring.

I know I mentioned something about rarely buying bags on sale; however, an Alexander McQueen box clutch on sale is good enough to break all the rules! These babies are usually pricey, so if you get one on sale, GRAB IT!

I’ve also got a scarf obsession going on and am perpetually on the hunt for some edgy scarves so when I saw this one from Giles by Giles Deacon (just perfect to match my new tote) I figured, why not! Its on sale with a 41% discount ((don’t ask me why it’s 41, that’s just weird) and a good scarf is a always a must have.

With that being said, Happy Sale Shopping my lovelies! 

Pre-Fall 2013: Favourite Picks

About time to start showcasing pre-fall accessories, this is the first in a series of reviews I shall be doing selecting the good and not so good.

Oscar de la Renta: ODLR kept it simple and classy for the season transition. Out of the covetable classy styles, my most favourite pick has to be the polygon minaudiere. It is refreshing to see a new shape with simple tones that are pleasing on the eye. Did I ever mention that I am a "sequin overload" kinda girl? The blush and navy case had to come next thus! And those powder blue heels -- the colour is love at first sight.

 

Chanel: Okay I have to admit, I would never ever get tired of Chanel. Even the most critiqued collections call out to me. The other day, I had a meeting with the Marielou Phillips for a work assignment, and trust me, us ladies spent half the time gushing on Lagerfeld's genius. Ushering in pre-fall with a very avant-garde style were these accessories out of which I absolutely love the camelia take on the boots -- a symbol that has become synonymous with the house. Secondly, there's nothing not to love about the cuff shown which is accentuated by feathers, and finally, fashionistas can kick it back in style with these olive high-tops with tassel-ended lace-ups.

Jimmy Choo: I am not a huge fan of the label, but I loved the colours incorporated into the pre-fall collection. Brights always bring a breath of life when the weather gives way for worse days. Two styles of slinky sandals and a simple neon clutch rocked my boat to some extent.

Nicholas Kirkwood: Over the years, we have really seen Kirkwood's collections tone down -- which I hate! I mean come on, bring back the footsy crazies. Yet, after saying this, I was delighted to see again, a delicious wonderment of heavenly powder blue! I loved these three pairs -- the delicate lace in the first paired with golden pencils are perfect to play the "something blue" part at a wedding. Then being a sucker for pink, any of it is most welcome -- the platform sandal and the booties are next on my wanted list.

3.1 Phillip Lim: Lovely animal textures incorporated into shades of cerulean and noir, Lim's collection is a fantastic merger of form and function adapted to no-fuss collectibles. Daddy, if you are reading this, I am meant to be carrying the blue leather tote to work. All in all, the line is primal yet in a very sophisticated avatar.

Versace: The gods of bling, house Versace presented their signature take on accessories with regal gold insignia adding tad shine, tad overtness and ample flare. I can totally see a lot of Delhi fashionistas working these and how! What caught my eye is the minute gold piping detail in both these pairs of shoes brought out with such impeccable perfection. On the other hand, I would agree that there's nothing special about the medusa necklace but then again, it is Versace; it is a necessity to show the ever evolving form of their most iconic brand mark.

Saint Laurent Paris: Hedi Slimane also stuck to the traditional simplistic take on everything YSL with a muted collection -- but I still think there's something more to be desired, especially with the shoes. Agreed, such designs become literal "heirlooms" passed on from mother to daughter, I would really like to see something outstanding. It need not be exaggerated fashion -- minimalistic can too be impressive.