Designer Rahul Mishra bags Woolmark Prize at Milan Fashion Week

Known for his forte of working with crafty natural fabrics and materials, Rahul Mishra once again demonstrated his flair for the same by winning the prestigious International Woolmark Prize (IWP) at the Milan Fashion Week last Friday. I think Rahul's one of the few new-generation designers in the country who can really work the magic of heritage and handloom fabrics within very chic, western silhouettes without going the Bohemian route. Now with this prize, he displays the very same expertise with merino wool, joining the list of iconic designers such as Karl Lagerfeld.

Rahul's collection titled The Lotus Effect comprised of 6 ensembles, which were first shortlisted in the Indian/ Middle-East regional round of IWP. Aiming to portray the process of metamorphosis, the mostly twin-tone garments featured complex 8-petal Buddha's lotus motifs that gave way to structures inspired by the tessellation work of artist MC Escher, and of course -- the tree of life. The weaving was inspired by our very-own chanderi.

 His collection was appreciated for the intricate embroidery through wool -- zardosi style -- but what I personally loved about it all is the fact that you can don these outfits as stylishly in the summer as winter. Rahul wins AU$100,000 and the outfits will be stocked in global retailers such as Harvey Nichols, Saks Fifth Avenue, 10 Corso Como, Joyce, David Jones, Colette and more from August 2014 onwards.

The judging panel included prime names from the fashion fraternity including Frida Giannini, Franca Sozzani, Tim Blanks, Colette Garnsey, Angelica Cheung, Alexa Chung and representatives from the global IWP retail partners. Being the first-ever Indian to win so, Rahul said on the occasion, “I feel like this is a dream and this is giving me new hopes for my future career. This award will change the perception of global fashion in regards to Indian fashion and this is all because wool - an amazing fibre, the fibre of possibilities.” Also added Sunil Sethi, President FDCI,“I congratulate Rahul on winning the International Woolmark prize, and it is indeed a proud moment for FDCI and India. Winning this prize has not come easy with the stiff competition from designers from all over the world. FDCI has partnered with The Woolmark Company since its inception in India and has been responsible in the selection of the India representative and I thank The Woolmark Company and the Australian High Commission for making this initiative a grand success."

New York Fashion Week FW 14/15 - Trends We Love

How great would it be if you could open your boyfriend or husband's wardrobe and simply put on his jacket or maybe even his trousers? That's what New York fashion week was all about. A strong masculine influence dominated the shows. At Alexander Wang, the models looked like men, at Victoria Beckham some of the footwear resembled men's formal shoes, The Row and Jason Wu had super cool masculine style women's suits and in almost every show we saw manly oversized winter coats and knits.

With every passing fashion week, more and more designers are infusing comfort in fashion. We witnessed that in the SS 14 ready to wear collections and even at the SS 14 Haute Couture shows. Relaxed silhouettes (Marc Jacobs was a favourite), flat shoes, sportswear, men's trousers, boxy tops; these were some of the most significant elements of most the shows in New York.

Here are some of the major trends from NYFW.

1. Wide legged/manly trousers: One of the most important trends for the coming fall were the wide legged and masculine trousers a la Phoebe Philo for Celine.



L-R: DVF, Jason Wu, Alice & Olivia



L-R: Ralph Lauren, Rodarte, Victoria Beckham, Alexander Wang

2. Fur: No surprises there that fur is big during the fall, but this time around furs didn't come only in solid colours. There were graphic furs and furs mixed with different textures. By the way, mixing of textures was also big this season. Furs were seen in pretty much every show in New York. PETA is not going to be happy.



L-R: Ralph Lauren, Altuzarra, DVF



L-R: Prabal Gurung, Carolina Herrera, Marc Jacobs

3. Flat shoes: Hey, if the Paris Haute Couture shows say flats are hot, then they are definitely a must have. Victoria Beckham, Proenza Schouler, Calvin Klein all did plenty of flats and the ones at Ralph Lauren are bound to be sold out as soon as they're up on the shelves. This comes as a big relief because I cant stand to wear high heels all the time (remember my Gucci flats, I literally LIVE in them).



L-R: Victoria Beckham, Ralph Lauren, Thom Browne

L-R: Public School, Band Of Outsiders, Calvin Klein, Marc Jacobs

4. Oversized coats: Remember how hard it is to move around when you're stuck inside a fitted winter coat? Well thank god for this cool new movement in fashion where relaxed silhouettes are dominating! Big coats were everywhere (currently in love with the cobalt blue one at Altuzarra) and in all different lengths.



L-R: Calvin Klein, Delpozo, 3.1 Philip Lim, Prabal Gurung

 

L-R: Altuzarra, Alexander Wang, Victoria Beckham, Ralph Lauren, Zimmermann

5. Plaid: The plaid trend doesn't look like it's going anywhere anytime soon. Well not till the Fall is over at least. Suits, dresses, coats and skirts in plaid were all over the New York runways. I am totally crushing on the pink plaid coat by Delpozo (featured under the oversized coat category).


L-R: Band Of Outsiders, Creatures Of Comfort, Delpozo, Public School, Tommy Hilfiger



Images Via style.com

Kitsch's BIG WAREHOUSE SALE!!

Hello my fellow shopaholics!

A quick post to inform all those who may not be aware that Kitsch is having a huge warehouse sale today and tomorrow with everything discounted at up to 80 per cent off. Honestly, this is the first time I've ever heard of such a big sale in Delhi and I am about to go get ready and leave for the venue as I write this post. Marc Jacobs, DVF, Moschino, Jean Paul Gaultier; I'd be a fool to spend this Saturday sitting at home waiting for my kickboxing trainer to show up (just cancelled my class by the way). Okay, okay I'm getting to the "where is the sale" part! Head on to the Jade Banquet hall at The Grand in Vasant Kunj and go crazy. I am currently eyeing the Marc by Marc Jacobs jacket and the Moschino shoes. Cant wait to see what other goodies are in store! What a fabulous way to "spend" the weekend.



Sale Goodies!! YAY

Happy Shopping!
XOXO
Me

Juicy Tracksuits - Juicy NO More

A few years ago I went through this Juicy Couture velour track suit phase (the operative words being a few years ago). I spent a lot of my money buying six tracksuits because I was in LOVE with them. So I wore them during the fall and winter and then I wore them some more, and then I STOPPED. Like perishable goods, certain items in the fashion industry too come with an expiration date. And just like that, Juicy tracksuits expired. A long time ago.

Now I rarely indulge in writing about stuff I don't like on my blog, but certain fashion crimes are so blatant that you really need to get it out of your system by talking about it. My blog is playing the role of a shrink today.

As I loaf around Delhi on a daily basis, minding my own business at the salon, at the mall, at the gym, I can't help but be blinded by the sheer volume of women I see in these velour suits SCREAMING juicy. And I don't mean in the last few months, I've been observing this for over a year now.

Once, I was doing a styling thingimijig which required me sourcing clothes from ZARA at 11am.Two women walked in proudly wearing their juicy's. One was in a bright red suit , paired with Salvatore Ferragamo stilettos. A stark red lipstick and bleached blonde hair with black roots popping out completed her look. The other lady was a little understated wearing an aubergine suit with flats. I wonder if they coordinated their outfits to go on a shopping spree. Hmmmmm.

On another given day, I saw six women at different locations wearing these velour suits. This was in just one day! Oh, I forgot to add, I have also seen a mommy and her 6 year old daughter both in different colours of blingy juicy's. I don't think it can get tackier than that. Mommy and daughter, matching matching. How cute. NOT!

I have to say though, their hoodies do have a really good fit, so there are times when I'll just pair that hoodie with jeans or Nike Dry Fit track pants and go for a coffee run or grocery shopping. But in 2014, I would rather be caught dead than be seen head to toe in velour in public.

 I know people might be hating me for saying these things, but the truth is that people would look far better in an Abercrombie & Fitch track suit (hey Anna Dello Russo wears them when she's travelling) or even wearing a Nike Dry Fit hoodie and tracks rather than loud, monogrammed Juicy Couture.

So my point is, if you're still holding on to all these tracksuits, save them for lounging around at home or use them like pyjamas like I do because they really aren't fashionable anymore.

XOXO

 

Bag Review: Diorissimo By Dior - A New Icon

A few months ago my cousin was shopping for her wedding trousseau. She messaged me asking me my opinion about what bag to buy. What I didn't know was that she had already made up her mind. She chose a bag that suited her personality and one that was made out of the finest leather possible. A bag that was fun, fabulous, classic and gorgeous. A Diorrismo. She sent me a picture of her holding the bag at the Dior boutique in Dubai and the colour was just delicious. She needed something elegant, yet functional for daily use and she told me that she couldn't have found a better bag for her trousseau collection. I agree. Just for fun, I made her take two pictures of herself with her bag so I could show you guys the delicious colour that she bought her Dior in.

Notice the slight slouch of the bag and a glimpse of the contrasting interior

The Diorissimo's design stays true to Raf's minimalist aesthetic and I LOVE it. Even though it is a new classic from the house of Dior, it is still youthful as ever. It comes with a smooth calfskin (also in python, ostrich & crocodile) exterior as opposed to the signature quilted cannage leather. My favourite part is the interior which is of a contrasting colour (I'm a sucker for colour blocking anyways) giving the bag a very fresh look. In terms of the structure, its sturdy, but not stiff and has a bit of a slouch which is great. When a bag is too stiff it's hard to expand it. Even though the bag is sans zipper to close it, the magnetic button is good enough to ensure all your essentials are safe. The closure on the sides mean you can expand or cinch the bag as per your liking. It comes with an adorable interior pouch which is as pretty as the bag itself. And you can't miss the pretty DIOR charms which have been covered in leather for the SS 14 collection.



In perforated calfskin with leather covered charms. J'Adore!



Love the bicolor leather and the printed charms



In hand painted python with python covered charms

People wonder why these bags are so expensive and I keep reiterating the fact that the beauty lies in the way they are made. The Diorissimo's making is almost couture like. Little hammer taps to even out the leather, a saddle stitcher to put the skins together, hand painted leather; the making features utmost precision and artistry. You can watch the making of the bag video below. You'll also notice that the craftsmen wear gloves to protect the leather whilst working on the bag.

So the next time you consider investing in a bag that will last you for decades to come, it has to be the Diorissimo.


Official Product Image Courtesy: Christian Dior

All Things Red & Pink For My Valentine's Day Gift Guide!!!

Valentine's day gets me all excited every year. Its a day when the entire world is celebrating love (agreed, there's no need for one particular day to do so, but no party poopers allowed here); whether its love for themselves, a partner, a BFF or a family member. Every year, I wake up on V-day with the anticipation of gorgeous flowers and perhaps a gift (the husband will be COERCED into reading this post) to celebrate on this day.

In case you haven't started dropping hints to your loved one, its about time you do so! Here is my very special and very luxurious red and pink valentine's day gift guide for all you fabulous ladies.




Jewellery

1. Aurelie Bidermann Pink Gold Swan Feather Earrings - How beautiful are these earrings from the designer's signature organic collection? Meticulously hand crafted in Paris, these pink enamel earrings are made from genuine swan feathers dipped into 18 Karat gold. Click here to purchase from Le Mill's e-commerce site.

2. Hermes Ano Bracelet In Poppy & Amaranth Red Lacquered Wood - What I love most about the Ano bracelet is its simplicity. Hermes does understated so well. Don't be fooled though, it's still made in France out of beautiful lacquered wood and the colours on this one are just perfect for Valentine's day. You can wear it on its own or stack it with your other Hermes bracelets. Check with the Hermes boutique in Delhi on 011-43607780 for availability.

3. Mise En Dior Necklace - Okay, I'll be honest with you, when I saw this necklace I kind of died and went to heaven .I love all the other goodies I've featured today but this one truly is the loveliest. First up, I love statement necklaces and pretty much only have such pieces in my closet. Secondly, the cluster of pink ,soft touch lacquered pearls entwined in gold metal is just stunning! So feminine. The husband better be reading this. Check with Dior on 011-46005900 for availability.





Hair Accessories

You know I thought it would be fun to feature some hair accessories for V-day this time. Whilst jewellery, bags and lingerie make the ideal gifts, its fun to add an element of quirk every now and then.

1. Karl Lagerfeld Wool-Felt Fedora - Who says a girl doesn't like a good pink-ish fedora as a V-day gift? Not every girl likes handbags you know. There's something so sexy about a woman who can pull off a fedora. This one is so cute with the grosgrain ribbon on it. Click here to purchase.

2. Piers Atkinson Love Headband - I love milliner Piers Atkins' creations, they're always so fun and eccentric, especially the iconic cherries and even an aubergine for this season. But since it's the day of love, I suggest this LOVE headband! Imagine walking into a party wearing this. What a style statement it will make and lets not forget the envious once overs. Click here to purchase.

3. Valentino Rockstud Leather Headband - Okay please don't kill me for featuring the rockstud over and over again! I can't help it, I'm obsessed! Bags, shoes, mobile phone covers and now the headband, I LOVE them all. Click here to purchase.




Clutches

1. Gucci Heart Beat Print Clutch - I HEART Gucci. Sigh, this adorable clutch makes me want to flutter my eyelashes (think Minnie Mouse style). With its blue patent leather, hand painted edges, leather lining and hearts in different sizes all over the bag, this clutch says I LOVE YOU Gucci style! They also have pouches in the heart beat series. Check with Gucci on 011-46471111 for availability.

2. Stella McCartney Falabella Crystal Embellished Faux Leather Clutch - The designer's signature Falabella design comes in the form a clutch with a girl's favourite things embellished on it; lips, hearts, matchsticks and earrings. Kind of reminds me of the elements that comprise of a wild, girl's night out. A little surrealist, a little edgy, this is the ideal gift to yourself. Click here to purchase.




Lingerie

Whether you wear it for yourself or for a romp in the sack with your partner, a valentine's day is incomplete without sexy lingerie!

1. La Perla Noche De Viento Silk-Crepe Chemise & Thong - I swear by La Perla for fancy lingerie. I bought some of their stuff for my wedding and its just so amazing. I love the way fabric feels on my skin. And their designs, so delicate. Their Noche De Viento collection is inspired by Spanish flamenco dancers and features the most exquisite details. On the traje de flamenco, you'll often see polka dots which comes in the form of tulle on this chemise. There are also appliqued fans on the baby doll inspired by those used by the dancers. I feel like a sexy dancer already! Click here to purchase.

2. Agent Provocateur Novah Neon Lace-Trimmed Stretch-Silk Satin Robe - AP is another one of my favourite luxury lingerie brands. Their robes just fall on your body so sensually (I speak from experience). This robe in particular had me sold with the yellow appliqued lace detailing on it. Pair it with a seductive bra and underwear set (leave it open or tie it to give a glimpse of cleavage) or the matching chemise. Click here to purchase.

 

Kitsch Launches Marchesa!! Wooohooooo

Marchesa, a Hollywood red carpet favourite, has finally entered Indian territory and we have Priya & Charu Sachdev to thank for that. Last Friday, I went for the fabulous launch of this great new venture by the sisters and it was a fashionable one. My favourite club, Blue Bar at Taj Palace, had pretty floral archways in the patio that served as a runway where models, including the ever so gorgeous Lisa Hayden strutted in these beautiful gowns.

 

Marchesa presented during New York fashion week

Marchesa  presented during New York fashion week

The clothes designed by Georgina and Keren are as close to couture as it can get. The gowns and cocktail dresses always have the most exquisite detailing on them; be it embroidery, embellishments or feathers and are made out of the finest fabrics."Marchesa collections fuse exquisite detailing with supreme femininity and we are excited to bring this beautiful brand experience into Kitsch's offering" says Charu.

Over the last two years, the trends at Indian weddings have been changing. During a youngster's or even a wedding sangeet, more and more Indian brides chose to wear a gown as opposed to Indian wear. Most of them opt for Indian designers to create their gowns, but I think it's great that we have Marchesa dresses in our country too now as it gives the Indian market more variety to chose from. Not to mention these dresses are just so unique and their cuts are just a class apart.

But it's not just in bridal wear that this trend is changing. I have attended a lot of fancy farmhouse parties (Diwalis, birthdays, etc) where women are seen in gowns and cocktail dresses.  

Spending power has increased in our country and our style mavens are always on the look out for something that stands out. That is exactly what Marchesa is. Something different, something exquisite and something fabulous.