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  • Switch to This Herbal Beauty Routine for a Healthy and Young Look!

    Switch to This Herbal Beauty Routine for a Healthy and Young Look!

    You could be surrounded by millions of products in the supermarkets which claim to be natural and herbal. Cosmetic and cleansing products which promote active ingredients, natural extracts and biochemical formulation. Very few of these products are 100% natural and many still have high chemical content for the formulation, foam, and preservation.

    Why Routine Skin Care is Required?

    Your skin is already exposed to pollution, atmospheric chemicals, harsh soaps and cosmetics, artificial contents in processed food and harmful chemicals found in natural product from fertilizers and pesticides. Knowingly and unknowingly, Individuals (especially urban settlers) are exposed to an array of harmful chemicals in their day-do-lives and this has a long-term impact on their health and well-being. This also has immediate and visible effects on the skin and hair.

    Since the overall nutrition content in fast food and processed food is lower than fresh vegetables and fruits – the skin and hair are already deprived of vital vitamins and minerals. Smoke, dust and particulate matter settle on the hair to cause dry and damaged hair. The skin also is affected by higher UV exposure, dust and pollution also reduce the glow and vitality of the skin. Continued exposure can cause wrinkle, aging, and dehydration in the skin.

    In order to combat the damage from the harsh outdoor environment, we sometimes end up exposing our skin to harsh chemicals in the shower. To reduce the overall chemical exposure and maintain the long-term health of the hair and skin, here are some tried and tested natural alternatives to chemicals and artificial products. We have prepared a herbal routine for skin care that is easy and effective – and also easy on the pocket.

    Exfoliation

    Replace artificial and harsh face scrubs with natural and gentle exfoliants for all skin types. Instead of removing excess skin layers – these natural remedies help in mild exfoliation and keep the skin hydrated. You can use various natural combinations and see what suits your skin type and gives the best results.

    A pumpkin and sugar scrub (with Jojoba oil and vitamin E capsules) is ideal for combination skin for the face and body.

    You can also use coffee grounds mixed with yogurt for oily skin type.

    For dry skin, try blended oats with olive oil and honey scrub.

    Remember, gentle and rotational movement is ideal for cell regeneration and improved circulation

    Toning

    Toning your skin with Aloe Vera is the simplest and most effective way to keep the skin hydrated while reducing oil content on the face. You can also choose a combination of vinegar + rose water or mint leaves + mineral water. If you are looking for a refreshed look and rejuvenated the skin, try a cooled down cup of natural green tea with cotton swabs on the face.

    Moisturizing

    Putting aside the misconception that oily skin does not require moisturizing – let us embrace that all skin types need different contents and frequency of moisturizing. Olive oil and raw coconut oil are known to have benefits for the long-term well-being of the skin. You can also use fresh cream for dry skin treatment and regular moisturizing routine.

    Lip Balm

    Chapped and darkened lips do not recover easily from the dryness and discoloration. Using a natural healing lip balm can replenish the natural nutrition and hydration to give you soft and supple lips.

    Melted Beeswax mixed with peppermint oil and cocoa powder is an instant cocoa lip balm for hydrated lips. You can also place coconut oil, Shea butter, beeswax in the oven and add essential oils when they start cooling. Coconut helps heal and soften damaged lips.

    Face Mask

    Your face deserves gentle and effective care. Discard your store-bought face products with these miraculous home-made face masks!

    For treating uneven skin, mix natural yogurt with honey and turmeric powder. This mask restores moisture in the skin and gently removes dead skin cells.

    For hydration and shine, mix avocado with honey and grounded oats. Massaging over the face not only hydrates (honey) but also repairs skin tissue.

    For pore management and skin tightening, mix egg whites with honey and lemon juice. The astringent-rich mask will tighten the skin and reveal a younger face.

    Night Cream

    Why sleep with chemicals on your face when you can make your own herbal and healing night cream? For all skin types, blend an apple with rose oil into a paste and mix it with rose water in a double boiler, apply every night for younger, radiant skin.

    Some people prefer rubbing an Aloe Vera plant directly on the face before sleeping but you can add primrose and lavender oil to it for soft and pimple-free skin.

    Hair oil

    You can protect your hair from dryness and damage by simply replacing some hair products with natural remedies. For hair loss prevention, use Gooseberry (Indian Amla) dried and boiled with coconut oil (till it becomes black). Wash hair after 20 minutes of massaging to enrich your skin with the Vitamin C from Amla. You can also choose castor oil for hair growth (on the scalp and eyebrows) because of it’s protein-rich, anti-bacterial properties.

    Hair Mask

    For instantly soft and nourished hair, apply a mashed avocado mixed with peppermint oil and yogurt. Wash after 15 minutes to see the protein magic of this moisturizing mask. A mashed pumpkin with honey pack for 15 minutes can instantly charge your hair with vitamins A and C, carotene and zinc. Best part? This mask works well for the face too!

    For controlling dry and frizzy hair, apply Apple Cider Vinegar (1 spoon) mixed with water (1 cup) and leave it for five minutes. Rinse for shiny, set hair!

    Natural Shampoo

    Yes! You can make your own shampoo at home to suit the needs of your hair and prevent the heavy chemicals found in commercial shampoos. For dandruff treatment blend 1 spoon Apple-cider-vinegar with 3 spoons apple juice, 1/4th spoon distilled water, 1/4th spoon castile soap, ½ spoon jojoba oil, and 4 grounded cloves. Refrigerate and use for 2 days before discarding. For Dry hair, mix 1/4th cup coconut oil with castile soap, essential oils, and ½ tsp almond oil.

  • 5 Secret Korean Beauty Hacks You Must Try

    5 Secret Korean Beauty Hacks You Must Try

    Apart from PSY’s chartbuster, Gangnam Style – South Korea has grabbed the world’s attention for its massive beauty and cosmetic industry.

    In local Indian stores and pharmacies, you might have seen cute Korean products with Anime figures, cartoons, and plush packaging. Apart from being insanely adorable, these beauty hacks and products are natural, affordable and usually very effective on Indian Skin types.

    There was a time when the Japanese were most trusted for their natural skin remedies and skincare routines. As a part of the 1990’s Hallyu movement, there was a boom in the export of Korean culture and the world noticed them for their art, music, beauty, food, and entertainment.

    In recent years, K-pop artists and unconventional Korean music videos flooded the global markets. People took notice of the flawless skin, young appearance and shiny hair of the Korean celebrities. Many websites, blogs, and influencers took to the internet to explore the potential of Korean beauty routines in the western world. From bubble tea face packs to anti-wrinkle spas, the secrets of the Korean cosmetic culture are gaining popularity across the world. The industry also thrived because of strong cultural influence and success in the experiential products. They are rich in botanical research, active ingredients, visible results, and sometimes bizarre applications.

    To introduce our readers to some of these proven Korean beauty routines and hacks, we’ve listed some of our favorite ones right here. Try these and let us know in the comments about the results!

    1. The Icy Cold Jamsu

    If you haven’t seen women dunking their faces in ice-cold water after make-up, you’ve probably not heard of the famous Korean Jamsu. The word roughly translates to ‘diving’ and that’s pretty much what you’re supposed to do. It is a beauty hack which has become a popular challenge on the internet. It is supposed to set your makeup by dunking your face in ice-water and also keeps the skin oil-free.

    Many celebrities and beauty-bloggers have tried Jamsu and most of them are freezing but happy about the result. The method is quite simple, you apply your entire makeup routine with foundation, concealer, and everything. You add a layer or baby powder (or according to some bloggers, transparent powder) and rest your face in a bowl of ice-cold water for 10-15 seconds. The powder and water set the makeup and also leave a matte, oil-free skin that lasts.

    2. The Overnight Sleeping Masks

    Korean beauty techniques are a mixture of medicine, science, and age-old wisdom. We know that the body detoxifies and skin cells rejuvenate best during the night.

    Since there is no sun, rain or pollution to disturb it – the skin absorbs nutrients well and also reacts better to products. Making use of this knowledge and biotech research from the cosmetic industry, Koreans started relying heavily on night-time beauty routines as compared to daytime.

    The most popular among these routines is the overnight sleeping mask. Easy to use, absorbent like cream and yielding fabulous results. All you have to do is remove your makeup, cleanse, tone and apply the overnight mask.

    Follow this routine once every week and your skin will be radiant and perfect in no time! Make sure you choose the right mask for your skin type for best results. Some of the popular sleeping masks in the Indian market include Oh K! Korean Overnight Moisturizing Sleep Face Mask, Ryaal Juicy Radiance Boosting Sleeping Mask with Watermelon Extract and Hyaluronic Acid, Lakme Absolute Skin Gloss Overnight Face Mask, LANEIGE Water Sleeping Mask, etc.

    3. Airdry for Best Results

    This is more common-sense than science. Since our towels are exposed to enormous amounts of bacteria and germs, the Koreans have decided to ditch the towel. Many cultures around the world prefer that the skin is air-dried for similar reasons. The towels can also have harsh detergent deposits, gruff texture, and infection-carrying germs.

    After washing your face, just let the air dry your skin. It will take longer but it will also allow the skin to remain moist instead of drying out into the towel. You can directly apply lotion after the skin is fairly dry to lock-in the moisture. This simple but significant change in your routine can prevent outbreak and acne to a great extent.

    4. Double Cleanse

    The Koreans consider cleansing as one of the most crucial parts of their skincare routine. They cleanse twice a day and each time, with two different formulas. The two formulas help the skin in two very different ways to stay clean and prevent clogging. Double cleansing involves usage of an oil-based cleanser followed by a foam cleanser. The science behind this is simple. Since water does not mix with oil, water-based cleansers are unable to remove oil-based products and pollutants.

    At the end of the day, your face is covered in pollutants, soot, natural oil, and make-up. In order to cleanse it perfectly, the steps are double than your usual routine. Start by gently massaging an oil-based cleanser on your face. It gently removes the oily substances and helps clear the pores. Rinse well. Immediately after this, use a water/foam/ cream based cleanser to remove any dirt and impurities in the skin. Once a day is fine but a morning and night combination is ideal for the glowing, cute Korean skin. Do not hesitate from using the oil-based cleanser, contrary to popular belief, it can actually help soothe the skin and prevent pimples from breaking out.

    5. The Magical Mouth Exercises

    Try saying A-E-I-O-U by exaggerating the sounds. It will cause stress to your jaws and cheeks. Repeat this five times everyday. The Koreans have proven that you can manually boost blood circulation to your cheeks and entire face by practicing simple mouth exercises. You can also look for devices which help position the mouth in a certain way to promote blood flow. You can also try looking all the way up at the ceiling and imitate a kiss. This helps reduce fat from the neck and lower jaw. Healthy skin is the base of any skincare routine and such simple exercise can add the extra dash of health and radiance to your face.

    Try this and let us know your experience with the bizarre but practical Korean beauty hacks!

  • Ready for Work? What You Absolutely Must Have in Your Office Bag

    Ready for Work? What You Absolutely Must Have in Your Office Bag

    A handbag is the most essential part of women’s work life. At workplaces women are most likely to stay organized. Women work bags play a huge role to keep them organized. It helps you to carry all your daily essentials. The big question is what are the most essential things working women should possess in their bag?

    What if you want to go for a dinner date after your office hours or what if you spill something on your dress. We all want to be prepared for everything, don’t we? But carrying everything into your bag could turn your work bag into a rucksack. Though we cannot help you with every emergency, what we can do is help you with most essentials you will need at some point in time.

    Here are the thirteen most essential items that a working woman should have in their bags.

    Phone Charger / Power Banks

    You don’t know when will your phone battery dies. If you work long days and use your phone a lot, charger is something you should never forget to keep in the work bag. If you are someone who has to travel a lot, then portable power banks are a handy item for you.

    Phone charger

    Earphones

    We all have lousy days at work especially Mondays are the worst. Earphones are the best to cheer you up when you don’t feel a good mood. It also helps you in situations when you are in no mood to talk to anyone. Just play your favorite playlist, and you will soon be back in-formation and work ready.

    Tissue Paper / Wet Napkins

    Coffee is for sure the best when it comes to energizing you to work until it accidentally spills on your dress. Tissue paper helps you clear such mistakes. Also, it’s very useful during summers, you can wipe of sweat and dirt with ease maintaining a fresh look.

    Perfume

    Body odor can be embarrassing especially during work; perfumes are an ideal way to deal with such a situation. Carry a pocket deodorant or a small sized perfume bottle to deal with sweat odor and stay refreshed all day long.

    Lipstick / Lip Balms

    If you are always running late for office and don’t have time to do your makeup this product will be enough for you. The right shade of lipstick alone can transform your look. You can wear a nude colored lipstick daily for your office. Carry your lipstick in your bag your for touch-ups. Having this essential in your work bag is beneficiaries in many ways. Let’s say there is an immediate dinner plan or maybe a casual date you are already late to go home and dress up for; this is when lipstick can be your best friend.

    Sanitary Napkins / Tampons

    It’s literally impossible to know when you would be hit by your periods. Most women don’t get their periods on the exact date and even if they do it’s not that easy to always remember your period date. Always have a sanitary napkin or tampons to avoid such accidents.

    Notepad and Pen

    Are you wondering why it’s necessary to have these in today’s digital age? Here is the reason, taking notes on a digital device can be distracting at work with all those notifications. And it’s worse when someone calls — imagine a call from a pesky credit card salesman when you’re taking notes! Notepads or a diary are the most trustworthy when it comes to taking notes or maintaining a to-do checklist. It is the most useful essential for business and office meetings.

    Mints / Chewing Gum

    You don’t want to embrace yourself with a bad breath around your colleagues right? Mints come handy if you have eaten something with too much garlic or onions in lunch. Mints should always be in your bags ladies, it hardly takes any space but saves you from bad breath.

    Snacks

    Hunger can be a significant problem if you are working long hours. You probably miss your food break when you are facing a deadline. Carrying snacks in your bag helps you fight food hunger. Stop yourself from getting distracted and have some food in your work bag. It could be anything if you are particular about your carbs you can even carry some almonds or salads.

    Hairbrush

    No matter how nicely you dress up, messy hairs can turn any look into disaster. Traveling a long way to your office can spoil your hair in minutes. You don’t know when your hair might need some emergency taming so it’s nice to carry a small comb in your office bag.

    Cash

    Even you have a wallet full of cards it is never a bad idea to keep some cash too. You don’t have to carry around bundles of money, keeping at least 1000 bucks in your bag is enough. It ensures that you will never be stuck in a cash crisis.

    Beauty Pouch

    Now this one is a personal choice depends on what kind of makeup you wear or even if you don’t. You can personalize a pouch with makeup products or skin care such as a moisturizer, lip balm or a hand cream. Beauty pouch lets you stay organized.

    Pain Killers

    You never know when a headache will strike an leave you to the road of never-ending misery. Make sure you have aspirin or tablets in your work bag. Also, consult a doctor for the kind of tablet you use.

    Now when you know the essentials you can conquer any situation that comes in your work time. You Go Girl!

  • Best Foundations to Save Your Skin from the Tropical Sun

    Best Foundations to Save Your Skin from the Tropical Sun

    It’s the middle of summer, and most parts of northern and central India are facing scorching heat and an unforgiving sun. Temperatures reach as high as 45 degrees Celsius and the skin burns and weep at the same time. Most women avoid makeup during these times because the sunscreens are already sticky and everything else just melts away in the sweat. Indian skin type is not difficult to maintain, but the heat makes the job a lot harder. Let’s face it, you can’t sacrifice a flawless look over a weather condition!

    The solution is to choose a formula that is long-lasting, sweat-proof and light. Combine it with a powder and a setting spray to bear the heat and sweat of the day. It is necessary to choose a water-proof foundation if you sweat a lot. Here is a list of light-weight, summer-proof and pocket-friendly foundations for the gorgeous summer look you deserve!

    Smashbox Studio Skin 15 Hour Wear Hydrating Foundation


    This matte foundation boasts a sweat-free and humidity resistant formula! The hydrating finish is perfect for the dry Indian summers and it’s water-proof nature allows a solid finish that lasts over fifteen hours! Go through your day’s activities without the need for touch-up or tissues. The product offers a moisturized finish with full to medium coverage. It is ideal for work, photo shoots, parties, and social outings! Easy to carry and easy to apply, best used with a buffing brush. Works great with any complexion and skin type.

    Dior Diorskin Forever Perfect Makeup Broad Spectrum 35


    Dior products are best known for a luminous finish, products that leave a glowing skin and a smooth finish with lasting effect. This product is no different, although it is more difficult to find in India than other markets. However, it is money well spent and the reviews of the product prove just that. From morning to night, the pores are tightened, the skin remains flawless and the moisture intact. It is available in a large variety of skin tones and options to select from glowing finish to matte look. Trust Dior to highlight and enhance the perfect radiance of your skin and protect it from the day’s wear and tear.

    M.A.C Studio Sculpt SPF 15 Foundation


    Easy to use, long-lasting and hydrating – the MAC M.A.C Studio Sculpt SPF 15 Foundation is a gift to the Indian skin. It revitalizes dull skin and protects it from sun damage. The broad spectrum UVA/UVB SPF 15 protection formula combined with its water-resistant effect makes it a perfect choice for all day use. You can blend it with a sponge or foundation but are also free to use your fingers to apply. It provides medium to full buildable coverage and a satin finish to the skin. It is usable for all skin types but especially compliments normal-dry and mature skin types. Hit the summer sun with a radiant, lasting and healthy skin!

    Bobbi Brown Skin Long-Wear Weightless Foundation SPF 15

    Available in over forty skin shades, Bobbi Brown Skin Long-Wear Weightless foundation is right on the money! It is comfortable, lightweight and long-lasting – all at the same time! The ultra-silky emulsion formula gives you a balanced blend of oil-control, skin care, and smoothness. It is easy to blend and leaves behind a multi-dimensional matte finish. The formula also promises 16 hours of swear-free, humidity resistant feel.

    BareMinerals BareSkin Pure Brightening Serum Foundation


    20 true-to-you shades for a weightless feel and flawless look! bareSkin is the mineral foundation for summer 2019! A perfect mix of natural ingredients, vitamins, and goodness of lilac plant stem cells. The foundation offers a bright and youthful finish. It has also proven effects on dark spots and discolorations for an even-finished skin. Fixing the summer tan and skin damage is now one brush dab away. Best part? SPF 20 broad-spectrum protection for an all-day safe and supple look!

    L’oreal Paris Mat Magique 12H Bright Mat Foundation


    12 hours of skin protection and glamour! This brand new formula by L’oreal Paris is the perfect mix of light and matte or as they call it, ‘matte without the flat’. For Indian summers, if your skin is oily or sweaty – this formula helps reduce moisture and stickiness with its mineral microsponges. The sebum absorbing complex helps reduce oiliness and leaves an overall dry and fresh skin all day. Available in five shades, this foundation provides a natural, shower-fresh finish with medium coverage and lasting protection. This is the first matte foundation by L’oreal and a real winner too!

    NYX Professional Makeup High Definition Foundation


    Get the summer silky smooth skin with this NYX High Definition Foundation. Its light-diffusing formula infused with peptide is the right mix for a high-definition finish. As the name suggests, the foundation gives you the super-model finish for your everyday look! It is natural, it is long-lasting and water-resistant. What’s more? Its packaging tube is travel-friendly and a trusted companion for trips! However, the No SPF is a small issue that other foundations offer and this one doesn’t. Choose from a range of eight international shades.

    Rimmel Lasting Finish 25 Hour Foundation


    Sweat Proof, humidity resistant, transfer-proof, long lasting! This is a perfect Indian-weather product and affordable too! Yet, these are not the best features of the product. It is long lasting up to 25 hours as the company claims! 25 hours of hydrated and nourished look. The revitalizing Mineral Complex and Moisturizing Aqua Primer Skin feels

    These are the popular choices of fashion bloggers, models, and celebrities. However, for your skin type, it is also recommended that you consult a dermatologist to understand the type and specific needs of your skin before choosing products. Using unsuitable products can cause long-term damage to your skin. Always check skin suitability, sun-protection and long-term effects of products before applying.

  • These Indian Fashion Designers are Making a Mark Globally

    These Indian Fashion Designers are Making a Mark Globally

    From Oprah Winfrey wearing a Sabyasachi ensemble for her Elle Cover photo shoot to Paris Hilton dazzling in a Falguni and Shane Peacock dress – Indian designers have transcended into the global fashion industry with remarkable grace and poise. They have also been well received on international platforms like the New York and London fashion week, Cannes and Oscars red carpet.

    These names are not limited to the red carpets, remember the time in 1983 when Bhanu Athaiya won the Oscars for Best Costume Design for the film Gandhi? These Indian fashion firebrands have been recognized and well by Bollywood as well as Hollywood on the global fashion events. Beyond the awards and fashion shows, Indian designer labels have also received significant patronage at concerts from superstars such as Jennifer Lopez, Beyonce, and Katy Perry.

    Bollywood stars are also widely choosing Indian ensembles by homegrown designers for movie premieres and Hollywood galas. Not only the stars of tinsel town but even the British Royalty took note when Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge was seen sporting an Anita Dongre Tunic dress during her Royal Tour of India and Bhutan.

    It is noteworthy how these designers have taken inspirations, motifs, elements, and materials of India and juxtaposed them with global themes and trends. They have presented Khadi, jadtar, embroidery and Indian craftsmanship with impeccable taste and grandeur. Their uniqueness and originality are clutter-breaking among the American and European labels that have been the usual choice of these celebrities.

    Now that Indian actors like Priyanka Chopra, Freida Pinto, Deepika Padukone, Dev Patel, and Anil Kapoor have successfully ventured into Hollywood productions – there is an opportunity like never before for their fashion sensibilities and favourite designers to shine on global screens. Let us look at some designers of Indian origins who have created a name and niche of their own in offshore markets.

    Sabyasachi Mukherjee

    Sabyasachi hails from Kolkata and is known globally for the surreal Indian bridal collections that he creates. His designs are a contemporary reflection of vintage and ethnic inspirations. He is known to engage craftsmen and jewellery makers from across rural India for his divine embellishments and handcrafted ensembles.

    In India, he is already known to have his best year in 2018 with his designs chosen for the Priyanka Chopra – Nick Jonas wedding, Deepika Padukone – Ranveer Singh wedding, Isha Ambani – Anand Piramal Wedding, Saina Nehwal – Parupalli Kashyap wedding and the Oprah Winfrey Elle Magazine Cover. His work has also been showcased at the New York Fashion Week, Milan Fashion Week, and Miami fashion week.

    Masaba Gupta

    Renowned designer and daughter of actress Neena Gupta, Masaba’s namesake label – House of Masaba – has caught global attention for its vibrant colours and fusion ethnic prints. Her couture is refreshing and unique – liked by celebrities and millennials alike. The recently launched Kolkata edition is the 10th store launched by the label and complemented by hundreds of pop-ups across the world.

    Bollywood celebrities like Sonam Kapoor, Bipasha Basu and Shilpa Shetty. In 2019, she is celebrating 10 Years of House of Masaba. In 2012, She was awarded the L’Oréal Paris Femina award for Best emerging designer and in 2017, she landed a spot on the prestigious Forbes ‘30 under 30’ list.

    This was also the year when her label closed the India day at London Fashion Week. As a smart and forward-thinking entrepreneur, she has also created impressive collaborations with Budweiser, Lakme, Tata Nano, Titan Raga, Myntra and Fiama Di Wills and many more.

    Bibhu Mohapatra

    Originally from Rourkela in Odisha, Bibhu Mohapatra is now a New York-based acclaimed designer whose work has been featured in global fashion events and especially known for red carpet appearances. The former first lady Michelle Obama, Gwyneth Paltrow, Glenn Close, Rita Ora, Hilary Swank, Jennifer Lopez are some Bibhu patrons.

    Indian superstars Priyanka Chopra, Kareena Kapoor, Sonam Kapoor, Deepika Padukone and many more have chosen Bibhu Mohapatra apparel for stunning red carpet looks. He is also well liked in the print industry – his label appears frequently in Vogue, DNA, Narue Claire, Wall Street Journal, New York Magazine, Time and Forbes magazines. His apparel is available at luxury department stores like Bergdorf Goodman and Neiman Marcus. He also has signature stores across the Middle East, North America and Europe. With a very successful clothing line, Bibhu ventured in jewellery design, launching his fine jewellery collection in 2016 under the name, ’ARTEMIS’, in collaboration with De Beer.

    Rohit Bal

    The Time Magazine described Rohit as ‘India’s Master of Fabric and Fantasy’. Born in Sri Nagar, Rohit Bal is a Delhi based designer who is truly a global name in the fashion Industry. With his iconic lotus and peacock motifs, velvet and brocade work – he reinvented Indian royalty and grandeur in his designs. With a Flagship store in Delhi, Bal has stores in Mumbai, Bangalore, Ahmedabad, Kolkata and Chennai.

    He has organized shows for his collections across the world in cities like London, New York, Moscow, Paris, Munich, Geneva, Colombo, Singapore and many more. He has designed for international celebrities including Pamela Anderson, Cindy Crawford, Naomi Campbell and Indian celebrities like Amitabh Bachchan and Deepika Padukone. He also curated signature products in successful partnerships with Christian Louboutin, Nebula Titan Watches, Zippo lighters and Lancôme cosmetics. International publications like Vogue, ELLE, Harper Bazar, Marie Claire, etc. have also recognized his work. He launched his first restaurant in Delhi’s Connaught place by the name of, ‘Ved’ which are now expanding to other cities in India.

    Many other Indian labels are emerging on the Fashion world’s map. These are hardworking, determined and skilled designers who use their Indian roots as inspiration to create sensational collections with a modern touch. They are taking Indian handicrafts, arts, jewellery designs, fabrics and prints to the next level.

    The industry thrives as more artisans are engaged and global brands are created by these labels. Also check out the brilliant works of Manish Malhotra, Ritu Kumar, Tarun Tahiliani, Kanika Goyal, Payal Singhal, Manish Arora, Sachin & Babi, Naeem Khan and Rahul Mishra who are all globally known names in the fashion industry.

  • Top Online Stores for Indian Fusion and Ethnic Wear

    Top Online Stores for Indian Fusion and Ethnic Wear

    Indian fashion trends are evolving fast and adapting to the vibrant and robust culture of the country. From artisan fabrics to hand-dyed clothing, you can access fashion and crafts from all parts of the country with the number of online stores propping up.

    From the celebrated Anarkalis of Lucknow to patolas of Gujarat, Patiala dresses of Punjab and Kanjivaram Silk of the south – the styles and fabrics of India are diverse and unique. Each attire and craft has a history and culture associated with it. For the modern Indian woman, these styles may not be very practical.

    The chaniya cholis and sarees have been modified for the working, playing and winning women of modern day India. A tasteful culture of Indo-fusion and ethnic clothing has developed from this adaptation process. Bollywood celebrities and politicians alike are rocking these outfits which are close to the roots of traditions but also becoming of their contemporary role in society.

    These empowered and empowering styles are now made available on various online stores across the country. Most of these stores also deliver abroad. The wide range of products includes various fabrics, local arts, regional crafts and styles, dyes, prints and eco-friendly textiles from various parts of India.

    You can find yourself a light-weight Anarkali or an easy-to-wrap saree or even a pre-wrapped dhoti-style pant. Here are some of the top online stores which offer exquisite designs at pocket-friendly prices.

    Tjori

    Sarees, silks, dresses, wellness products, skin care products, and even jewelry – Tjori has gained popularity in a very short time for its novel designs and a wide range of eco-friendly traditional products. Handcrafted products curated with contributions from artisans and designers in India and abroad. The store offers a diverse product range like pure cotton kurtas, embroidered dresses, traditional juttis, silver jewelry etc. in motifs and prints like Kalamkari, Chanderi, Ikat, chikankari, ajrakh, etc.

    iTokri

    iTokri is a loving dedication to the arts, crafts, music, languages, and cultures of India. A wide range of products like apparel, home decor, personal care products, and artifacts are sold on the store. It is a store with the objective of connecting the world to the villages and arts of India and promoting their crafts. You can get yourself eco-friendly fabrics, hand-crafted bags, local art pieces, and even upcycled clothing. You will also stumble upon some curious natural products like beeswax perfume, Meenakari earrings and embroidered file folders. You will also find some rare paintings and artifacts which make perfect gifts for friends and family.

    Fabindia

    A very well known brand with stores across India – Fabindia has been known for its handicrafts, wellness products, and fashion line, over 40,000 artisans and craftspeople across India are engaged by the brand to deliver to customers in stores as well as the online store. Foreign tourists and NRIs prefer fab India for its minimalistic designs and high-quality products. Today the online store offers a variety of products for men, women, and kids across categories of fashion, food, skincare, Home linen, furniture, and decor.

    Rustorange

    This is a vibrant store curated with pieces by young designers from across the country. The product range is forward-thinking, youthful and energetic The designs are unconventional and daring while maintaining a strong relationship with Indian prints and inspirations. The collection is a celebration of modern Indian women and the prices are just right for the pocket. Many silhouettes are western with ethnic hints and some are traditional pieces reinvented in a modern spirit. You can choose from a diverse collection of sarees, Kurtis and dresses in all shapes and designs.

    Indiarush

    A marketplace which has the one for everyone. You can choose from a large variety of styles, prints, fabrics, price ranges, patterns, and prints. The store boasts the best prices and most attractive discounts as the products are directly sourced from manufacturers and middlemen and agents are eliminated. Choose from their range of sarees, dresses, suits, dress materials, blouses, tops and even a range of menswear.

    Gaatha

    Gaatha Fashion weaved in the spirit of a social cause. Three friends and batchmates of the National Institute of Design (NID) came together to deliver not only the fabrics and crafts of rural artisans but also their stories. The designs and products are associated with the life, culture, struggles, and inspirations of artisans who have kept these arts alive. Wooden combs, ceramic jewelry, organic beauty products and a whole range of Indian prints and styles. You can find here crafts like Chanderi Weaving, Gamthi Prints, miniature art pieces, Kolhapuri, Tie and dye, Thewa, Phulkari, Mashru, Ikat, Namda, Batic, Jawaja and many more.

    The Loom

    A riot of colors and a collection of festive designs – The Loom has energy, authenticity, and electric. The Loom is a perfect online store for fusion wear. You will find Indian designs perfectly melting into western influence. The store claims to infuse celebration and festivity into each and every product. They offer a range of Clothing, jewelry, home decor, and gifting products. You can browse through categories like kaftans, lehengas, shararas, dresses, and kurtas. You will also find traditional sarees and dress materials. The home decor range offers stylish cushions, bed covers, rugs, quilts, etc. and the jewelry section offers everything from earrings, neckpieces, nose rings, bangles, and hair accessories.

    Craftsvilla

    A massive marketplace with unique Indian designs across handmade, vintage, ethnic and organic themes. With an objective to remove middlemen and agents between retailers and artisans, Craftsvilla has tied up with the Ministry of Textiles, Government of India, for e-marketing of handloom products from small weavers. Most popular for lehengas and wedding fashion, the store offers categories like Sarees, Kurtas, Dresses, Lehengas, Gowns, Jewellery and Men’s wear. From Banarasi sarees to Punjabi Salwar kameez, the store is a favorite for those who prefer variety and a wide range of designs.