Sunday 22 December 2013

Its Juggling Time Folks! ( Perfect Woman Feature Article)


"Like life, fashion too has no rules. Being inspired is fascination, but being an individual is YOU."

Fashion! What does it bring to your mind? Preppy street style fashionistas, catwalk models, magazine photo shoots, crazy music artists or your own self? For me, its everything. I may not have the perfect body of a ramp model or the craziness of a pop artist like Lady Gaga but what I do have is my individual style even when taking inspiration from the world. After all the plus point of being on the heavier side is experimentation! 
This is the article as featured on the December Issue of Perfect Woman India.
Winters are finally here and so its time to juggle up your wardrobes.  And if there's nothing you can find in yours, go hunt your granny's! You are sure to come up with things like…

Pretty Cardigans - Remember the naive Naina Talwar (Deepika Padukone) from Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani? You surely couldn't have missed out on her floral frocks and pretty cardigans! These winter mornings make the perfect season and reason to throw on old cardigans over your normal clothes. 
My version - wearing a longish muted coloured cardigan over well fitted pants (rather skinny) and a bright tee.  


Loose Thick Pullovers - Every grandmother in India made these for their entire family, especially the males. So ask your dad for that one pullover he always avoided and wear it in style! 
My version - Oversized pullover over leather pants/leggings with boots. If you still feel cold, put on your beanie and muffler. You dad and granny will be the first ones to compliment!

Midi/long Skirts - I suggest going over to your mum's or aunt's wardrobe for these. Anything below the knee and loose is not just comfortable but also sexy. So keep your minis aside and pile up on the long skirts as this sexy thing is here to stay! My choice would be the chiffon/synthetic ones as they have a perfect fall.
My version - For a trendy day look, pair the skirt with a cropped top and brogues/saddle shoes. On a chilly evening, wear a fitted coat/quilted jacket over your skirt for a masculine-feminine fusion look! If you would like to add some more drama, wear a hat - a Victorian one may be?

Beanies - My first photo on record is that of me in my father's arm, wearing rabbit ears beanie and since then these cute lil things have been on my favourite list throughout the next 23 years. It not only keeps your warm but can make anyone look extremely cute! Now don't say you don't like cute things. Beanies are also extremely easy to make so this time, instead of asking your granny for one, why not make it yourself? It could well turn out to be the best gift ever for Christmas. 
My version - wear it with anything, right from your pyjamas to office wear! 

And when you are finally done with the wardrobes, hop on to the streets for…
Boots - And no I don't mean the winter-typical ugh boots. Neither am I talking about sky-high boots. Biker boots, studded boots, cowboy boots and even Timbaland boots - these are the ones to go for this season. Anything from the knee to the ankle is good with no heels or a 2 inch block heel.
My version - A short pretty floral dress/frock worn with a bomber jacket and studded or tie-up boots. 

Faux Leather - The runways, the streets, the airports, the clothing racks as well as in your best friends wardrobe, the one thing you will surely find is faux leather. Be it leggings or jackets or sweatshirts or skirts, leather oozes style. But do not go leather-y top to bottom unless you really want to look like a professional biker.
My version - Wear your prettiest printed kurti/kaftan with faux leather leggings for a fun twist to your normal outfit! You can also wear a leather jacket with any kind of printed pants - right from military to floral. Don't forget your booties!

These above said list is what will make way into my wardrobe, your choice may be different. Actually, it should be different! Fashion can be inspired from, but style is unique. Like life, fashion too has no rules. If you think 3 neon pieces can be worn together, wear it! Its all about confidence and speaking for yourself. Being inspired is fascination, but being an individual is YOU.

I would love to know how do you Juggle Up this winter. Comment below.
Love N Luck




Sunday 1 December 2013

The Little Black Dress (LBD)


Everybody in this world knows whats an LBD! "The Little Black Dress"
According to fashion historians, the origins of this classic dates back to 1920s designs of Coco Chanel and Jean Patou. Almost a 100 years, but the LBD remains to be a classic wardrobe must-have throughout, regardless of season, occasion, country, fashion phase, etc. The patterns and textures and shapes and drapes may be many but the basic concept remains the same.



The Little Black Dress, owing to its long lasting ability, versatility, affordability, accessibly and the neutral colour, is indeed the safest bet for just any women in the world!! You can take it from day wear to evening wear depending on the way you style it. I found my perfect LBD at the Forever 21 stores. Its the perfect length, fits snugly, the lace detail gives it that feminine touch while the "A" hemline makes it so cute! My accessories include a cross ring-bracelet and my cross ear cuffs, both from Forever 21. Now here's the exciting part - this complete outfit is worth just INR 2000! Amazing isn't it? 
You too can own a complete outfit worth INR 2000/- by entering the giveaway below sponsored by Forever21.


CONTEST RULES -
  1. Subscribe to our Vlog Channel
  2. Like us on Facebook
  3. Follow us on Twitter
  4. Share this on your FB wall and tag the maximum friends. Tweet using #megagiveaway @glamshutter (the more the better!).
  5. Comment below : Your idea of the perfect LBD. You can describe it by mentioning the cut, structure, pattern, drape, length, shape, hemlines, etc! You can also add how would you accessorise it, your hairdo, anything and everything that can make your answer the best!! :D
Love N Luck

…………...…...……. CONTEST CLOSED…………………...



Friday 29 November 2013

Picture Perfect Dreams

We are all born with a dream. Sometimes our dreams change, sometimes it doesn't. But what is it that makes dreams come true? Your self confidence? Motivation? Peer and family support? Will power and determination? The answer is a big YES to all these. But what would you do if you have all the support and confidence and motivation and determination in the world but still, there is something missing that's stopping you? I'll rather re-frame it - What could still stop you from reaching your goal that you always wanted to achieve?
A chance. An opportunity. In a broader sense , The Perfect Platform. A public performance for a musician, workshop for an actor, fashion weeks for budding designers, exhibition for an artist/photographer and even a garage sale for the budding entrepreneur! The boost such platforms give to aspirants is undeniable. A fair chance is what everyone deserves. 
Now, you remember us telling you guys that we have good news for all the aspiring female models, right? Here's your chance to step into the world of your dreams! 



The hunt for the "Perfect Miss Mumbai" is on! Go register yourselves here to be part of one of the most glamorous pageants. For more details visit www.perfectmissmumbai.com or get in touch with us. Wishing you best of luck. Hope to see you there!

Love N Luck

*This post is a part of Perfect Miss Mumbai promotion campaign.

Thursday 14 November 2013

Wings of Change

Ever wondered how would it feel to wake up one fine morning to the view of a tiny fish pond surrounded by glistening green trees, air smelling of dew drops and the sound of children playing? Sounds alluring right? Well, that was the scenery I would wake up to every morning  but 5 years back. Its the same house, the same surroundings, the same people, the same road, the same Sun, but the feel has changed.

Yes, 5 years equals an era these days. Now, I wake up to the view of buildings in different colors, hovering over me from every side. My day starts and ends with the noisy road full of cars honking and tyres screeching.  My nights are filled with shaky moments that seemed like earthquakes, but are just the impact of the brick laden heavy trucks moving. And slowly, even the image of that beautiful pond that smiled at me through my balcony seems to be fading away from my memory.
Now that the pond had been such a precious part of my life, I do owe it something. And this outfit is an ode to that smile that greeted me every morning. What surrounds me now was where my smiling star had been, 5 years ago. :)









Outfit - Thankur Complex, Kandivali
Ear Ring - Forever 21
Finger Ring - Karigar
Handbag - Lavie
Shoes - Hill Road, Bandra
PS- I will soon do a post on the DIY Hairstyle I tried here.

There is something that we have been working on for quite a long time now. Presenting to you our brand new property, an exclusive Fashion Podcast - Let'Stalk Fashion 


Can you guess what its gonna be all about ? Comment below
Love N Luck

Friday 1 November 2013

Celebrations Never End


 
Minions courtesy

Don't we all feel the same way during every festival? And do you realise that you are gearing up for another festival just as soon as the on-going one gets over? Yes, celebrations never end, or rather, our reasons never end! We are always on a lookout for reasons to buy new clothes, meet people, visit relatives and having fun. And now that you know your abode is a very busy place throughout the year, don't you feel you should keep it smelling fresh always? 
#ChangeTheAir


Try the new festive range of Godrej Aer Home and Car fragrances to headstart your celebration with all things fragrant. Also, do let me know which fragrance you like best.

Love N Luck

P.S. - This post is a part of Godrej Aer promotion campaign



Tuesday 29 October 2013

Dread That Car Journey : Halloween Special

Image Courtesy
Imagine you are on a road trip along with your friends to a spectacular hill side. Travelling along a scenic landscape you get totally absorbed in its scintillating beauty. Your windscreens are down, you are breathing in the burst of fresh air, your hair dancing with the wind. Its getting darker and colder as you enter a road flanked by dense forest. The skies above are a pale blue with tints of the setting sun. The clouds are hovering over your head, dense and dark. You are still lost in the beauty of nature when your car comes to a screeching halt that makes you fall off your seat. You find your grip and look up to see what just happened and you are welcomed by something like this.............




We grew up hearing such stories from our grandparents and parents. And somewhere, I do believe that life after death do exist. Thats what Halloween is all about, isnt it ? Its all about those wandering souls trying to find a body for themselves and more often than not, the victims are the ones travelling by roads as they are the most easy and vulnerable targets. But then, should that stop you from taking memorable road trips with your family and friends?
My grandma always told me that a strong mind and a spiritual smell can always fend off bad spirits. Its obviously not advisable to use incense sticks in a car but you surely can use car fragrances that will also help you keep your friends happy. Nobody likes travelling in a smelly stinky car!
#ChangeTheAir


Try the new festive range of Godrej Aer Home and Car fragrances to headstart your celebration with all things fragrant. Also, do let me know which fragrance you like best.

GET THE LOOK:
Why not go "Desi" this Halloween? Remember the famous Manjulika. Undoubtedly, my look here is inspired from her! To get this look, wear a tshirt as a blouse and drape your saree in the most clumsiest way possible. Also make sure your saree is not ironed. Take any red color powder and smear it on your forehead and rub your eyes like a crying baby after applying a healthy dose of kajal. Give the final touch by messing your hair up after tying it in a loose low bun. Don't forget the "Maang Tika" and "Gajra". For Shristhi's look, wear a dark cape, apply a dose of shell colored foundation and dust your face with some powder. Line your lower rim with red colour eye shadow or you can even use your rouge blush.
Have a Happy Halloween!

Love N Luck
P.S. - This post is a part of Godrej Aer promotion campaign



Monday 28 October 2013

A sweet tradition!


You guys must be wondering whats with me and my constant posts on festivals, especially Diwali. Well, my Durga Puja went utterly sad and for a bong thats a total heartbreak :D . So I am trying to cover up for those lost days during Diwali. My college doesnt give us much of holidays you know so there's not much I can do to celebrate all the festivals lavishly with heavily laden table full of delicacies and sweetmeats. Also, I have a retarded digestive system that does not allow me to gorge on outside food much. The solution? I have to treat myself, always! :D
But then, is cooking easy? Certainly not for someone who has a 10 to 6 college timings :/ . But greedy that I am, I wanted to treat myself and my friends to something different, that too a sweet dish. And today, I am sharing with you the recipe of that. This is so basic, even a 5 year old can make it ;) But it tastes awesome! So share the sweetness with your family, friends and guests this festive season.

INGREDIENTS :
  1. Sponge Cake (infact any cake will do)
  2. Chocolate Syrup
  3. Fresh tropical fruits, finely chopped (of your choice)
  4. Dry fruits (the only "traditional" ingredient in the list :D)
  5. Condensed Milk or Strawberry Syrup
  6. Fresh Cream or Vanilla ice-cream

METHOD :
  1. Take a flat surface bowl and base it with crumbled cake
  2. Top it up with a layer of chocolate syrup
  3. Now, add another layer of crumbled cake and spread the fruits evenly
  4. Now, spread condensed milk or strawberry syrup on the fruit layer and top it up with dry fruits of your choice
  5. Set it in the fridge for like half and hour
  6. Serve it with a scoop of fresh cream or vanilla ice-cream on top. 
"Your dish should look somewhat like this"  Image Source
If you are to be more experimental, add your own layers and don't forget to tell me! :)
And next time you have guests, serve them this. You dont have to be traditional always. A change from the usual is sure to make a lasting impression. 
There is just one drawback to this dish though, it has no lingering smell that most freshly cooked traditionla dishes leave behind. So keep your house smelling fresh with the new range of Godrej Aer.
#ChangeTheAir

Try the new festive range of Godrej Aer Home and Car fragrances to headstart your celebration with all things fragrant. Also, do let me know which fragrance you like best.

Love N Luck
P.S. - This post is a part of Godrej Aer promotion campaign

Saturday 26 October 2013

This Festive Season Bring Mother Nature Home

Diwali is still almost a week away but lets face it, India has already started celebrating. Not necessarily by bursting patakas but by lighting up the house, buying new clothes, dusting up the house, calling friends and family over for the yearly reunion and so on. The streets in my colony are filled with vendors selling diyas of different shapes, sizes and colours. More than the festival itself, its the "getting-ready" phase of a festival that invokes a very exciting feeling in me :D.
But this year, the monsoons have decided to stay till october and this pro-longed guest is the cause for a very damp house that smells stale. Atleast mine does :/ . So I took up my mom's advice and planted some in-house plants. She gave me names of a list of plants of which I am gonna share some with you here.
Lets get ready for a fresh Diwali !! ;)
We all have heard about the benefits of Aloevera. There are many ayurvedic company even selling its juice. But aloe vera plant not only helps with skin burns and issues but also with filtering various gas emission from dangerously toxic materials and it claims to possess tons of medicinal properties as well.
Image Source
No one can ignore the beauty of Marginata, a plant that has glossy thin leaves with red edges. It is a slow-growing flowering houseplant with very few growing requirements. It also not only removes formaldehyde(found in cigarettes, wooden furnishings,  and benzene(found in glue, paints, plastics, etc) from the air, but some other toxins present as well. But the plant can be poisonous to dogs so do place is carefully.
Image Source
The Gerber daisy, a bright flowering plant, is effective at removing trichloroethylene(comes from dry-cleaning) and benzene. Place it in your laundry room or bedroom but make sure it gets a lot of light.
Image Source
The colourful Chrysanthemums have always fascinated me, especially after I read a very touching short story revolving around this flower. Its colourful flowers protect you from benzene and also brightens up your homes. Place it in a place where it will get ample sunlight.
Image Source
Last but not the least - the Lucky Bamboo! The best part about this plant is that it can be placed even in your cars. Its small in size, needs indirect sunlight, can grow only in water and does not need soil, and then, its supposedly lucky! Need anymore reasons? Just change the water (soft or filtered water) every 2 weeks to keep it glowing green always.
Image Source
And for those very lazy ones (like me), freshen up your homes with the new godrej aer series.
#ChangeTheAir
Try the new festive range of Godrej Aer Home and Car fragrances to headstart your celebration with all things fragrant. Also, do let me know which fragrance you like best.

Love N Luck
P.S. - This post is a part of Godrej Aer promotion campaign

Tuesday 22 October 2013

Festive season DIY Gifts


In my previous post, I shared with you guys the most exciting reason I look forward to festivals. But is one reason enough? Tch tch! Not for me :D 

There are many more reasons the country celebrates all these festivals for throughout the year. New clothes, matching jewellery and shoes, vacations, cousin get-togethers, pandal hopping, happy faces all around and lovely gifts!What really excites me are gifts, simply because they are unexpected. You never know what you might just get. Dont you love that excitement filled feeling just before you open a gift pack from your loved one? 

And so, the other day I was wondering what could I gift my friends and family this Diwali to make things more special. And after hopping through numerous shops, I thought why not gift something hand-made? Not only does it make your folks feel loved, it is also lighter on your pockets. And the biggest benefit, its interesting! Don't believe me? 
Try these simple DIYs I found online and I bet you will want to do more such interesting stuff.

Scented candles are undoubtedly the perfect gift for your loved ones. Simple and refreshing, learn how to make Cinnamon Candles here.

Laddoos wrapped in colorful crepe paper and ends tied with ribbons. Gifting these will make you the kid's favourite ;) .
source courtesy
Last but not the least - Hand made soaps! No it isnt as tough as you may think if you follow these simple steps to make this Herbs and Citrus Soap

All said and one, did you notice anything similar between the above 3 DIYs? Yes ofcourse, the fragrance! Some way or the other Indian festivals have been  closely associated with fragrances. 
#ChangeTheAir
Try the new festive range of Godrej Aer Home and Car fragrances to headstart your celebration with all things fragrant. Also, do let me know which fragrance you like best.

Love N Luck
P.S. - This post is a part of Godrej Aer promotion campaign

Friday 18 October 2013

Fragrant Festivals with Godrej Aer

source courtesy
India is always a festive country. Small occasions like "Ghar ka Puja", big occasions like Holi and Diwali, personal occasions like Birthdays and Weddings, self-made occasions like promotion and graduation - we find endless reasons to celebrate! And what is that first thing that comes to your mind whenever you go to a festival or are invited to an occasion almost equal to a festival?
Yes of course! I am talking about FOOD! The festival air is laden with the smell of food whether at the streets or at homes. Sharing with you my favourite festivals based on "food value" :D :D. 

Eid-ul-fitr or Meethi Eid - The whiff of condensed milk and raisins, Heaven!
source courtesy
Christmas - I am a die-hard non vegetarian. I look forward to Christmas for all different kinds of meat preparation, right from roasted turkey to duck meat to pork ribs. (Damn, my mouth's already watering :/ ) . After that, the array of desserts. Its like every house in the colony smells like the town's best bakery.
source courtesy
Diwali - This is one time of the year when I can survive on sweetdishes throughout the day. Balushahis for breakfast, Puri with Shrikhand for lunch and Halwa and Barfi for dinner. Ghee is the essence/flavour/smell of the season, no kidding.
source courtesy
Onam - I dislike coconuts to the core, but then there's something in Onam Sadhya dishes that I love inspite of it being soaked in coconut oil. From crispy fried banana chips to tangy rasam, its coconutty-tangy (my word) :p
source courtesy
Durga Puja - No bengali will ever not list down "Bhoger Khichudi" as their utmost favourite. The aromatic gobindobhog rice mixed with roasted moong dal - your mouth's already watering?
source courtesy
But tadaaaa!!! Reality check - festivals dont last forever and neither does the aroma in the air. So does that mean "end to good smelling homes"? Hell no! You should always keep your lovely homes smelling equally good so why not invest in a good air freshener?

#ChangeTheAir
Try the new festive range of Godrej Aer Home and Car fragrances to headstart your celebration with all things fragrant. Also, do let me know which fragrance you like best.

Love N Luck

P.S. - This post is a part of Godrej Aer promotion campaign

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