Hot Indian Summer weddings, and some pocket-friendly desi online shopping

I am sure all of you would agree with me when I say Summer Indian weddings are terrible! On top of heavy stifling ethnic wear, the air-conditioning almost always seems to fail in huge gatherings, your makeup melts off your face, your hair goes frizz/ limp crazy and Lord save you if it is outdoors whether day and night. And that brilliant and polished look that we associate while playing dress-up -- for both men and women -- goes for a toss. I personally just attended one last week of a close friend's sister, and as soon as I entered the main arena, I got hit by a mist fan so bad that the hours of hardwork my stylist put together in doing my hair and face were history... and instantly!

Save for small blessings though, the least you can do is have it easy outfit-wise. I have put together these two looks, contemporary and ethnic since it is indeed wedding season in full swing:

Contemporary

Black and white no doubt! The hottest trend of SS13 that brings the war of opposites to a delightful glory is versatile, no-fuss and breezy! This pyramid print satin vest paired with this flowy pair of silk-chiffon palazzos, both by Ankur and Priyanka Modi can easily switch from bruncheon-chic to glam moments on the night floor with superb flare. I love the label's minimalistic approach towards fabulous cuts -- and would definitely recommend you to check out their entire BW collection. A python print clutch with snake-shaped hardware (shop here) by Bansri, These stunning uncut diamond and pearl drop earrings by Bharanys Jewellery, this antique silver tribal-inspired cuff by Amrapali, and a sky-high pair of Charles & Keith heels that you can buy here completes the look. I have kept the look entirely monotone; some way want to add a loud pop colour.

Ethnic

I know you might groan that Masaba Gupta and prints go hand-in-hand but how about working one her plains -- this lusciously candy pink sari that you can pick here. This is teamed with this brocade blouse by 9rasa, super-chunky clutch by Gayatri Chopra available here, earrings with rose motifs from Valliyan by Nitya from here, and a pair of rock-studded surprise twist by Steve Madden that can be bought here. Put on a slim mixed-metal watch such as this DKNY, and nothing more.

As the 'Best Editor in the World' (mine) likes to say, Lets have some rounak shounak!

Punk: Chaos to Couture

If any of you happen to be in New York between 9th May - 14th August, you will be lucky enough to catch the highly anticipated Spring 2013 exhibition, PUNK: Chaos to Couture organized by The Costume Institute of The Metropolitan Museum of Art

The exhibit examines the impact of the punk movement on couture from its origins in the 70’s to present day. For years now, there has been a strange relationship between punk clothing and high fashion. Both couture and punk exhibit individuality in their own ways which is the common denominator in this eccentric affiliation. Designers have often drawn inspiration from the punk culture. We have seen the spikes on Burberry jackets, Stephen Sprouse’s graffiti for Louis Vuitton and how can we forget, the Versace safety pin dress. 

Elizabeth Hurley in the Versace safety pin dress

Stephen Sprouse for Louis Vuitton

Punk dressing was characterized by ripped clothing held together with safety pins or normal clothes that would have shock value through the use of the whole DIY concept (spray painting t-shirts, etc.) or even with political propaganda printed on it. Razor blades, spikes,chains, tattoos, tartan trousers, lots of vinyl and leather and Dr Marten boots were all a major part of the punk philosophy. What fascinates me is how this almost anti fashion culture ended up on the runways and became one of the most popular trends.

Zandra Rhodes was one of the first designers to bring punk style into limelight. Her 1977 “Conceptual Chic” collection featured shredded dresses, skirts and shirts held together by safety pins and chains. Vivienne Westwood is another to have been deeply influenced by the punk movement. Her initial designs were inspired by bikers, S&M and even prostitutes.

A Zandra Rhodes Dress

For this MET Costume Institute exhibit, think safety pins, razor blades and spikes! Of course Zandra Rhodes and Vivian Westwood’s clothes play a significant role here. Some of the other designers include Rei Kawakubo, Gianni Versace, Riccardo Tisci, Martin Margiela, Dior, John Galliano, and Nicholas Ghesquiere amongst others.

Punk: Chaos to Couture at the MET Costume Institute

Punk: Chaos to Couture at the MET Costume Institute

100 designs for men and women ranging from original punk garments to modern day haute couture and ready to wear will be on display showing the influence of punk on fashion. One of the seven galleries will be a tribute to the notoriously famous CBGB club (a club dedicated to punk music). The next two galleries were inspired by Vivienne Westwood and her husband’s boutique in London.

Punk: Chaos to Couture at the MET Costume Institute

Punk: Chaos to Couture at the MET Costume Institute

The last four galleries (D.I.Y Hardware, D.I.Y Bricolage, D.I.Y Graffiti & Agitprop, D.I.Y Destroy)will feature the use of studs, spikes, chains in couture, the use of random objects in high fashion, the use of graffiti, agitation and propaganda as popularized by the punk rock band, The Clash and finally analyzing the concept of shredded clothes. The exhibit will also include various forms of multimedia to heighten the experience.

A Moschino dress made out of plastic shopping bags at the exhibit

The use of DIY hardware in fashion

Some, who previewed the show, were not impressed and felt it was too sanitized and lacked the negative aspects of punk, whilst some loved it. I’m just sad I can’t be there to see it!

Who wore what to the MET Gala

The Costume Institute at the Metropolitan Museum of Art hosted its annual gala to celebrate the opening of their PUNK: Chaos to Couture exhibit. This annual MET gala is pretty much the Oscar equivalent for the fashion industry and is one of the most important society events of the year. Rumour has it Kim Kardarshian sucked up to Anna Wintour for an invite (I cannot stand Kim and thought she was the worst dressed at the event).  Anyways, my favorite part of this event is to see who is wearing what keeping in mind the theme. And this year’s theme was PUNK!

Some came dressed to the part and some didn't really make that extra effort and then there those who were simply pathetically dressed. Let’s talk about the dresses that caught my eye.

Sarah Jessica Parker, Sienna Miller, Christina Ricci, Jennifer Lopez, Vivienne Westwood

Some of the major head turners included Sarah Jessica Parker in her Giles Deacon gown with tartan boots and her Mohawk esque Philip Treacy hat (LOVE times 3!), Anne Hathaway in Valentino with her super funky hair do and Miley Cyrus in Marc Jacobs (apparently the spikey hair took nearly five hours to complete).  Socialite Julie Macklowe looked super cool in her Zang Toi gown! I totally loved her fiery pink hair, the studded choker and clutch.

Blake Lively and Rosie Huntington-Whiteley looked stunning in their Gucci gowns whilst I didn't care much for Jessica Biel’s Giambattista Valli outfit (mind you, I’m a huge Giambattista fan but this one just didn't do it for me). I have mixed opinions about Diane Kruger’s Chanel Haute Couture dress too.

Blake Lively, Cameron Diaz, Anna Wintour, Amanda Seyfried

Nicole Richie and Jaime King went high street punk for the event by getting custom made outfits from Topshop. I think Nicole’s silver hair and spikey earrings were a total HIT!  Cara Delevingne and Sienna Miller did justice to the punk hardware in Burberry so did Cameron Diaz in Stella McCartney (the deadly belt with spikes was AWSOME). Supermodel Gisele Bundchen looked super chic in her chain linked Anthony Vaccarello mini dress and Constance Jablonski’s Wes Gordon dress with metal tissue and a harness was as punk as it can get!

Although I think Madonna rocked the punk look better than anyone else. Trust the Queen of Pop to show up sans pants in a Givenchy Haute Couture ensemble featuring a studded tartan jacket, a metal choker, fish nets and LOTS of chains paired with hot pink Casadei heels. Christina Ricci also for that matter stayed true to the theme in her tartan Vivenne Westwood gown paired with Casadei heels (okay I need to get a pair of those!). Speaking of Vivienne Westwood, she certainly raised some eyebrows with a badge that had a picture of Bradley Manning and the word Truth written on it.

Minka Kelly, Nicole Richie, Anne Hathaway, Madonna, Miley Cyrus, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley

Okay I know people are going to hate me for saying this, but I’m sorry Beyonce’s head to toe Givenchy Haute Couture ensemble was too much baroque in my face. How is baroque even close to punk? I understand that the whole monochrome look is very “IN” but really, the same fiery or baroque print on the gloves and the boots was a little too much! And putting on a studded belt just seemed so random and haphazard.

Beyonce, Gisele Bundchen, Jaime King, Diane Kruger, Constance Jablonksi

While I loved Jennifer Lopez’s hair do, I didn’t think her leopard print Micheal Kors gown was really punk style. I mean yes, it was a gorgeous dress, but a little far away from the theme in my opinion (there were lots more like that). Same goes for Katy Perry in FW 2013/14 Dolce & Gabbana. The duo’s fall collection was based on biblical mosaic so I’m not sure how that falls into the night’s theme (still loved the dress though). Funnily, Anna Wintour’s Chanel Haute Couture dress was also more couture than punk and ditto for Amanda Seyfried in vintage Givenchy couture. Minka Kelly for that matter also didn't meet the punk mark in her FW 13 Carolina Herrera gown and neither did Kate Botsworth in her Balmain. Make no mistake, I love each and every one of the dresses I have just mentioned, but I just felt that they were more Oscars than punk.

Cara Delevingne, Julie Macklowe, Kate Botsworth, Katy Perry, Jessica Biel

Last minute mother's day gift guide

Mothers are the greatest gift anyone can ask for. They are the reason who we are today. All those nights they spent pacifying us, educating us, helping us deal with heartbreaks and protecting us from the big bad world; mommys are the real super heroes.

Okay before the sob fest begins, as you all may know, it's mother's day on Sunday and it's time to gift mommy something super special. If you haven't already bought a present then my last minute gift guide might be of some use!

Check out my top picks for mommy.

1. Cartier Love Bracelet - This gorgeous open bracelet in gold has a single diamond and is the perfect way to tell your mother how much you love her.

2. Hermes Wa'ko-ni Silk Twill Scarf - With an Indian Princess printed on it and thousands of hours of craftsmanship, I guarantee you, one will never be enough for her.

3. La Mini D De Dior Watch - Featuring a yellow gold case set with diamonds, this is the perfect wrist candy for your mother.

4. Chanel Satin Sandals With Pearls & Enameled Jewels - Who wouldn't love a pair of these?!

5. Gucci Leather Continental Wallet With Horsebit Detail - The jasmine green color will bring on the Cheshire cat smile every time she uses it.

6. Lanvin Classic Happy Bag - A stylish yet classic bag like this is something she'll cherish forever.

7. Lancome Absolue L'Extrait Regenerating Ultimate Elixir - This magic potion ends every mothers search for the perfect anti-ageing cream.

8. Tiffany & Co Metro Rectangular Sunglasses - Trust Tiffany & Co. to perfect sunglasses too! With Austrian crystals and black and Tiffany blue frame, any mom will feel like a DIVA!

Three Haute Things: New York Chic, Punkin' It Up & Knightley-Chanel

I guess the name says it all! Here's a list of my favourite things, and news in the week:

1. 30 Days of Outfit: Kate Spade

Kate Spade tops my list of designers who do everyday-wear best with a dash of eccentricity. This website feature caught my eye where they have put together looks for 30 days (with accessories to boot) over lovely illustrations. Aren't these cute? Each look has an inspiration behind it. I recommend -- shop!

2. The Punk Shop Sale @ Modaoperandi

I am kind of floored by this :D. The sin of the seventies never does stop evolving into super-sexy high fashion. Modaoperandi has put together this Punk-inspired sale in light of the just concluded MET Gala roping in names such as Givenchy, Thom Browne, Rodarte, Moschino, Prabal Gurung, Vivienne Westwood (This one's a given, isn't it? Old mother god of punk!), Balmain, Gigi Buris and Zana Bayne amongst others. Included in the collection is a lime green mohawk by New York Vintage as well, in addition to objet' d arts such as a leather chandelier, temporary tattoos and, a set of USD 4,000 contact sheet images. This is going to be sold out pretty soon though.

3. Keira Knightley's Chanel Connect

Keira Knightley has tied the knot with musician James Righton of the British-Indie quartet Klaxons over the weekend at a very low-key ceremony in Mazan, France. Deemed an extremely casual affair by the paparazzi, the duo were seen leaving donning sunglasses and Knightley wearing but of course, Chanel! The face of Coco Mademoiselle perfume, Knightley paired this short tulle Rodarte dress with a Chanel jacket (and apparently, the dress seems to be a repeat of her BAFTA 2008 look). Other guests rocked the wedding in flip flops.

You might also be aware that Knightley is all set to star as the legendary Coco Chanel in Once Upon a Time, a mini-movie directed by Karl Lagerfeld himself which will be released tomorrow at their Singapore fashion show. You can watch the above teaser.

Reading between the lines (black and white Marc Jacobs of course)

Black and white monochrome is one of this season’s hottest trends; so when I saw this Marc Jacobs clutch on the SS 13 runway, naturally my heart melted.  This gorgeous Embroidery Pochette "Skunk" clutch is covered in 135,000 paillettes and each panel takes 13 to 14 hours to embroider. Of course how can I forget, the soft calf skin lining and a removable wristlet strap. Click here to purchase.

What kind of a fashion blogger would I be if i didn't complete the look for you! Pair it with this L'Wren Scott dress, this stunning Ek Thongprasert bracelet, a pair of Oscar De La Renta earrings, Bottega Veneta silver caged ring and these Gianvito Rossi shoes. 

Why Don't You ....

Maleeka and I love fashion. We talk about trends, shoes, clothes, bags all day long on our bbm’s. However, the other thing we have in common is a mutual love for the history of fashion. Both of us have this innate curiosity of wanting to know more.  We constantly read up on designers from the early 19^th century, prominent personalities who have influenced the industry from times gone by, etc. You see for any fashion lover, its never just about the clothes or bags. There’s so much more to it. What inspired the designer, how did fashion photography become what it is today etc etc. So I feel today, I should inform our readers briefly about Diana Vreeland aka, The High Priestess of Fashion. 

One day, a very fabulous and stylish friend of mine (you know who you are girl!) frantically bbm’ed me and demanded I download a documentary called The Eye Has to Travel. No questions asked I did so and immediately. For the next hour and a half or so, time just ceased to exist for me as I stayed glued to the screen watching recordings of Diana Vreeland that took place in her living room which she fondly called “the garden of hell” in the 1980’s.

In her Garden of Hell

Diana Vreeland was one of the most influential women in the fashion industry till date. A fashion editor for Harper’s Bazaar (1936 – 1962), the editor in chief of Vogue (1963 – 1971) and finally a consultant at the Costume Institute at the Metropolitan Museum of Art (1971 onward); Diana Vreeland was a true fashion legend. 

The irony of it all was the fact that she was never really a beautiful woman. She was constantly treated like an ugly duckling by her mother; therefore Diana knew that if she were to make it anywhere, she had to stand out. That’s exactly what she did.

According to Marc Jacobs’s foreword in the book Allure, “she had the ability to find beauty in imperfection, in flaw, to go against the common popular opinion in what is good, what is right.” If you thought a crooked nose is ugly, she somehow would make it one of the most beautiful things you've ever seen! That was the power of Diana Vreeland.

Vreeland wouldn't just deliver a magazine; it was a book of dreams. Her “why don’t you” column for Harper’s Bazaar was to make women think outside the box, to dream, to fantasize. The photo-shoots were just the same. They weren't just models wearing clothes, they were stories.  She often sent off models and photographers for shoots to far away and exotic locations to inculcate a sense of adventure and fantasy which resulted in the most iconic images of our time. She once famously quoted, “Fashion must be the most intoxicating release from the banality of the world.”

The iconic image of Lauren Bacall for a Vogue shoot

For a shoot in Egypt, she memo’ed Richard Avedon, her photographer “think of Cleopatra walking the roofs, think of a young beautiful Cleopatra pacing that roof and everyone is so old!” This was a woman bursting with imagination. She changed the face of fashion photography. She discovered trends, people and created beauty. She just knew how to look at things in a way very few could ever do so.

The Egypt shoot with photographer Richard Avedon and model Dovima

With that being said, here are some of her most famous “why don’t you” quotes to encourage you to fantasize a little bit. Go ahead, why don’t you…

Use a gigantic shell instead of a bucket to ice your champagne?

Paint a map of the world on all four walls of your boys’ nursery so they won’t grow up with a provincial point of view?

Tie black tulle bows on your wrists?

Wash your blond child’s hair in dead champagne, as they do in France?

Wear violet velvet mittens with everything?

Have an elk-hide trunk for the back of your car?

Bring back from Central Europe a huge white baroque porcelain stove to stand in your front hall?

Have a room done up in every colour green? This will take months, years, to collect, but it will be delightful—a melange of plants, green glass, green porcelains, and furniture covered in sad greens, gay greens, clear, faded, and poison greens?