Every time some or the other fashion comes back in vogue. So, after chiffon, georgette and bling, it’s back to roots for city-based designers who are now working with Andhra weaves and motifs.

During the recent fashion shows across the country, local designers embraced all things Andhra with a vengeance! Couture that comes with a Hyderabad label is often born straight out of the local weavers’ loom and city designers confess that they’d never look beyond their backyard for both inspiration and raw material because our state has a wealth of weaves, prints and traditional techniques that’s ready for national, if not global, attention. Andhra Pradesh has a huge treasure trove of traditional handloom, which is exquisite and unique, yet grossly under-explored. In a bid to stand out from the fashion elite and revive the arts, designers have taken to dipping into the motifs and handlooms of the state. The revival of the state handloom has seen a resurgence of sorts among weavers and dyers who were slowly giving up the craft to try other means of livelihood. Thanks to the resurrection of prints like the kalamkari however, artistes are now coming back to the fold and reviving the art.

Strong and independent women like Amala Akkineni and Adhuna Akhtar wear outfits and that in turn has helped in making the weaves and motifs of AP popular.

So, if you want to bring some color in your wardrobe, try some Andhra stuff.

Section: Fashion

Is your lower heavy portion making you conscious? But that shouldn’t stop us from being less fashionable, right? If you have wider hips and thighs and a smaller bust, then you are pear-shaped. Here are some fashionable tips for pear shaped women to look trendy and haute.

If you want to shift focus from your lower body, add broadness to your upper body by going for dresses or tops with small shoulder pads. Strapless, halter neck and spaghetti dresses are perfect for your body as they remove the attention from your lower half. Go for dresses that have ruffles, embellishments or a luxurious pattern/texture around the neck as that will add volume to your bust. Wear dark colors for lower and lighter shades for your upper body.

An oversize shoulder bag is the best accessory for you. Go for wide-leg trouser shorts, palazzo pants with front pleats, wide-pleated A-line skirt (instead of its tapered counterpart) or a wrap skirt. Vertical lines will slim you down. Wear coats that are belted at the waist. Make sure it is either waist length or more so that it covers, your wide lower body instead of making you look bulky. Avoid coats that sit or end at your hips. Give your bust a boost with the help of a push-up or a padded bra that will help balance your larger middle area. Smooth the hip area by wearing shape-up/ shapewear. Avoid metallic fabrics in your skirts, pants and trousers.

Don’t let your shape affect the fashion. Infact, play around and be stylish the pear way.

Section: Fashion

Sometimes, minuets details in your outfit can radically alter your whole appearance. One such is the neckline. Everyone notices a good or bad neckline when looking at you. Not everyone can sport every neckline with ease, so know the styles that suit your frame. When selecting the right neckline, keep in mind your body shape, bust, décolleté line face, neck, and shoulders. Here are a few options you can try depending on your personality and body type.

Asymmetrical necklines are admired for their ability to highlight a woman’s sexy curves. If you wish to flaunt your collarbone, confidently opt for this one. Keyholes are a popular style for evening wear. If designed well, this neckline can make you feel like a princess. The scoop neck is the most versatile and the safest option to buy. It shows off both, the neck and décolleté and works for almost every frame. The plunging V-neck has a bound edge as it is closed in the back and on the sides and dips to a shallow point at the front. Whatever your size, it makes you look good by emphasising the shape of your face and making your neck appear longer.

The off shoulders suits pear-shaped women with a medium build and an average bust size. However, if you have a small chest or a thin neck, wear a chunky necklace. Boat neck is the edgier version of the scoop as it creates volume and draws attention to the neck. Queen Anne sits high on the back of the neck and opens along the lower front of the chest. The roughly diamond-shaped style works well for most body types and can help elongate your figure or display a discreet amount of cleavage.

Strapless cut can make a top-heavy woman spill out and a thin woman look like a giraffe! If you have a small bust, stay away from strapless outfits unless you’re planning to add volume by wearing a shirt beneath it. The cowl neck has softly draped folds that hang off the neck in a scooping fashion. They elegantly add volume to a small chest, and camouflage a big chest that has a long décolleté line teamed with a normal, thin, or long neck. The halter works for moderately-sized to small-busted women, with toned arms and a proportionate neck and head. This style can incorporate elements of the V-neck, straight-across or sweetheart neckline. The jewel neckline is often used as a backdrop for showing off a special piece of jewellery. That’s where the name comes from. The jewel neck is a high, close style that encircles the base of the neck and covers the top of the torso to the shoulders.

So, get some sexy necks this summer and flaunt that collar bone.

Section: Fashion

Abu Jani and Sandeep Khosla are renowned as the patriarchs of the Indian Fashion industry. As long as they have been around, their names have been associated with the best and biggest in the fashion world. Known as the connoisseurs of couture, they were one of the first Indian designers to make their mark internationally. Until now, their collections have been out of the reach if the common man. However, with the launch of their new affordable prêt line, their clothes are about to become more accessible than ever before.

Celebrating 25 years in fashion, the designer duo have decided to launch their first ever prêt-a-porter line. The line is priced between Rs. 5,000 and Rs. 20,000. It consists mostly of cotton kurtas, over-sized shirts and their signature ethnic silhouettes, styled in summer tones of white, acid and black. Of course the duo’s trademark whites and off whites is a huge part of the collection. Fabrics like Kerala cotton, georgette are mainly used throughout all the pieces. It features the “glamour of gota and bling of sequins”. It is primarily a casual collection, with just enough designer touches to make it formal – perfect for the young girl of today who doesn’t like to look overdone. They have chosen Saif Ali Khan and Amrita Singh’s daughter, Sara, as their muse. She has been wearing their creations since she was a baby. In fact, she says that she’s never worn Indian outfits by any other designer! Who better to represent their line than the 16 year old? This prêt line comes from the ashes of a failed deal. They were in the process of creating a prêt line for some other clients when that deal fell through. As they already had 300 garments ready, they went ahead a released their own prêt line. Anyway, they say that making a collection like this has been a dream for long. Currently, this is a limited edition; however they have plans to expend the prêt line in next year’s collection. According to Abu Jani, “The label is perfect for the couture wearer who is looking for casual, fun additions to her wardrobe”.

Category: Fashion

Nowadays, fashion shows in India are a dime a dozen. Everywhere you look, there are more and more Fashion Weeks cropping up. While this is very encouraging to the Indian fashion Industry, it sometimes becomes hard to distinguish between the real high fashion designers, and just the posers. The word “couture” has a very heavy meaning, and you have to fulfill some stringent guidelines to be called a couture designer. The Delhi Couture Week is one of the fashion events that aim to showcase only the best in the fashion industry and firmly establish the fabled city of Delhi amongst the couture capitals of the world.

2012 will be the third edition of this prestigious fashion show. The last two chapters have been such successes, that this year it is one of the most awaited events on the fashion calendar. Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI) is just starting to finalize the fashion calendar for the latter half of 2012. However, sources have revealed that the Delhi Couture Week will tentatively take place from July 11-15. This has been confirmed by board member Anju Modi. In this five-day fashion extravaganza, some of the usual high fashion suspects are expected to show their lines. The council is considering giving 10-11 slots to designers during the couture week, but no names have confirmed participation yet.

The maiden show in 2010 was the biggest till now. It lasted six days and featured a series of 12 shows and 6 installations and 19 designers, including Sabyasachi Mukherjee, Manish Malhotra, Gaurav Gupta, Rohit Bal, Manav Gangwani, Pallavi Jaikishan, Anamika Khanna, Valaya, Varun Bahl, Suneet Varma, Raakesh Agarvwal / Rina Dhaka and Abu Jani Sandeep Khosla. The second edition in 2011 was relatively smaller. It was spread only over four days, and showcased 12 designers. Many of the big names made a comeback, with additions of Meera & Muzaffar Ali, Adarsh Gill, Anju Modi/Ashima – Leena, and Shantanu & Nikhil. We wonder what the lineup in the third edition will look like!

Category: Fashion

Fashion takes inspiration from all walks of the world; and now they have re-considered geometry. It is the season of geometric fashion, which means that squares, diamonds, rectangles, trapezoids, and all kinds of geometric shapes should be taking centre stage in your wardrobe now.

Geometry designs are usually worn as prints or in the shape of the garment itself. Since geometric shapes look brilliant together, it is possible to wear this look, either as a blend of several shapes or as a single piece. So, if you are bored of wearing flowers and plain, geometry design is the right pick for you. The look can be extended to accessories too. Therefore, there can be angles on bags, shoes, jewellery, all in different shapes to go with the geometric prints on your clothes. However, it is important to remember not to wear all kinds of shapes when there are busy prints on your clothes if you want your accessories to stand out. Shapes like polyhedrons, triangles, and squares are the hottest in skirts or dresses now. The geometric shape is the foundation or the basic shape from which the rest of the garment is crafted and draped.

So, try the the most chic look of the season, Geometry!

Section: Fashion

The flowing garment can look is an upcoming trend in the Indian party scene. Well, if you are conscious to carry this fashion off,  here’s how to pick one. Yes! we are talking of nothing else but the quintessential Western gown, now a must-have garment for every Indian woman. The gown defines a woman’s secret desire for lavishness; the ultimate style statement that makes her feel special. All you need to know is your body type and the secret to make it look beautiful.

Pear-shaped women should look for fabrics that drape softly over your curves without showing every lump and bump. Satin and sequins should definitely be avoided on your bottom half. Try wide necklines like boat necks, sweetheart necks, large cowls and wide V-necks. Do not wear loud prints or light colours at the bottom. Wear designs with detail on the area below the knee to draw attention away from a large hip area. Do not be afraid to accessorize. High heels help by creating an elongated silhouette.

Apple-shaped remember, layering to sport light fabrics that add dimension to your midsection, helping to make you look shapely instead of thick. A-line and empire gowns with V-neck should work well for you. This style narrows at the top and flares towards the bottom. Choose fabrics in solid colours that have a little stretch so it is forgiving to your size. Wearing the same colours on the top and bottom creates a clean, straight line that lengthens the overall silhouette of the body. Structured jackets on top would be great.

If you are a lucky hourglass diva, classic cuts teamed with trendy accessories will have you look fabulous. Be careful not to overdo your clothes with ruffles, bows and other frills, as your figure itself is enough to draw attention. Try sheer, soft, clingy fabrics and avoid stiff bulky fabrics and design. Bodices will look great on you. Stay away from heavily beaded or over-embellished gowns, they tend to make you appear unbalanced.

Slender women select gowns with a band on the hip to create curves in the areas where you just do not naturally have them. Detailing like ruffles, large prints can work wonders. Avoid sheer fabrics; you are lucky enough to experiment with different fabrics and embellishments, which the others can’t.

So, pick a flowy garment this season, and gown down this trendy look.

Section: Fashion

We all feel that army uniforms are the smartest of them all. This season leading fashion houses want to bring the military trend.

The rigour of military clothing can be soften by romantic, ultra-feminine touches. Cotton teamed with linen, silk and viscose creates blouses and shirts, T-shirts, dresses, trousers and skirts. A variety of weights, volumes, and layering is instrumental in taking the edge off the basic theme. The palette centres on powdery shades of pinks, greens, and grays. Optical white ensures occasional flashes of light. The best way to keep up with the military trend is to layer a military jacket over your skinny jeans or leggings. The jacket is youthful, fun, and adds instant cool to your look. Exaggerated shoulders are great way to embellish, and add youth and a rock n’ roll edge to your look. For a subtle take on the military trend, opt for a jacket in a neutral colour with simple embellishments.

Mix military trend accessories into your wardrobe to add some shine to fall’s neutral palette. Look for necklaces and brooches reminiscent of medals of honour. Metal embellishments, like silver chains and bronze bangles, will achieve the same effect in a modishly veiled way. Fashionable camouflage is quite different from its pragmatic counterpart. The goal in fashion is not to blend in. Despite the muted and natural colour palette, this season’s camo look will set you out from the crowd, without appearing flashy.

Whether you are adding youth and vigour to your everyday look, or simply navigating the urban jungle, this season’s military trend offers fun embellishments, flattering colours to every skin tone, and a desired edge to your work day to weekend look.

Section: Fashion

Designer Manish Malhotra is  known for flawless luxury and style in his couture. After dressing up Bollywood right, he has now venturing in a brand of linen wear. The leading producer of blended fabrics in India, Siyaram Silk Mills Ltd, has ventured into the premium and luxury linen segment by launching the linen brand, Royale Linen collection with Manish Malhotra. The ace B-town designer is amazed with the luxury and purity of linen; and is working with the material for the first time.

Royale Linen, addressed as the most lavish linen to be introduced in the market, comes in an selection of shades and textures. The range has intriguing and innovative textures, patterns and shades, which can be used for exquisite summer evening-wear garments.

Since it is 100% pure, it is very comfortable and stylish. In addition, the fabric used for the Royale Linen collection turns softer with every wash and has a high natural lustre to it. A fusion of modern and contemporary style, it is treated using the latest aero finish technology that gives the fabric an impressive lustre and a perfect fall. The natural colour ranges between shades of ivory, ecru, tan, and grey.

So, are you ready to add new sophisticated chic to your wardrobe?

Section: Fashion

Designer Gaurav Gupta, who has completed six years in the fashion industry, and showed his presence in the world of elite and Bollywood. Now, he is all set to take the next step with his new standalone store. Gaurav Gupta launched his flagship store along with the unveiling of his new collection, which featured a display of his couture pieces complete with moving images.

One of the most swiftly recognized names in Indian fashion scene; Gaurav Gupta has created a beautiful collaboration in Delhi. The store features sinuous concrete walls and the floating mannequins above the little pool give the store a surreal appearance. Designed by the eminent Indian architectural design firm LOTUS and Gaurav Gupta, the store offers the spring summer line comprising of floral prints in hues of holy orange, watermelon red and silver charcoal.

The store also stocks lehengha gowns, sarees, and a few Swarovski neckpieces. Keeping in mind the growing demand for the most popular silhouettes and styles, the second store also offers Gaurav Gupta Classics. Other than couture, the store offers shoes and has a special couture salon area. Other than couture, the store offers shoes and also has a special couture salon area. The unveiling of the store saw Delhi’s swish social circle in attendance, including Sunil Sethi, Anushka Menon, Pernia Qureshi, Shivan Bhatia, Narresh Kukreja, Kalyani Chawla, Tarun Tahiliani, Lakshmi Rana and Gautam Kalra.

To view the best in fashion, visit this store at Shop number 339, Second Floor, DLF Emporio, Vasant Kunj, New Delhi – 110070

Section: Fashion