Category: Fashion

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Fashion Lite Blogs

Sabyasachi built with authenticity, integrity and quality

Featuring the statement gariyal necklace set in gold with brilliant cut, rose cut and uncut diamonds, aquamarines, tourmalines, turquoises and jaspers…reports Asian Lite News

“Bengal’s grand history of handcrafted jewellery almost faded away because of a lack of patronage. I want to bring this legacy back to the world.”

From Calcutta to New York in historical times. From the fine craftsmanship of Bengal to the gilded Byzantine splendour and the dramatic prowess of Broadway. With influences that veer off the maximalist paths bridging the east and west-a turn of Sicilian baroque with the rustic finery of Harappa, mediaeval goldsmithing merged with sophisticated Georgian techniques, brooding Moorish arches embedded into age-old Mughal crafts-these works have influences from both the east and the west.

A hedonistic intercultural conversation where deconstructed Maharani necklaces are coupled with exquisite hand-printed velvets, enamelled Grecian medallions are matched with exotic charms from the Sundarbans mangroves, and the most exquisite tourmalines are paired with understated turquoises.

Bengal Byzantine Broadway celebrates the exuberant and rebellious, even as we remain grounded in India’s heritage, art and craft. India is not just one story, and neither is Sabyasachi Jewellery.

“For the last two decades I built a heritage fashion brand based on a simple value system. Sabyasachi Jewellery has been built with the same principles- authenticity, integrity, quality and the finest of craftsmanship” said by Sabyasachi Mukherjee.

“As the world hunts more and more for authenticity, I am confident that the next generation of the greatest jewellery designers will come from India. We have a sophisticated history of hand-crafted jewellery that goes back centuries, and I have made a promise to myself to work relentlessly to conserve this legacy and make it relevant again” quoted by Sabyasachi Mukherjee.

Featuring the statement gariyal necklace set in gold with brilliant cut, rose cut and uncut diamonds, aquamarines, tourmalines, turquoises and jaspers.

Featuring statement earrings set in gold with brilliant cut, rose cut and uncut diamonds, iolites, rodholites, turquoises, corals, tourmalines and pearls and the statement bangle stack set in gold with multi-coloured gemstones.

Featuring the statement bangle stack, each bangle is set in gold with multi-coloured gemstones.

Featuring the turquoise statement necklace set in gold with brilliant cut and uncut diamonds and apatites.

Featuring a deconstructed Maharani necklace set in gold with uncut diamonds, pearls, quartz, sapphires and tourmalines with a fine velvet tie-clasp.

Featuring the statement ram’s head necklace set in gold with brilliant cut and uncut diamonds, petalites, dalmatians, jaspers, turquoises, opals and tourmalines.

ALSO READ-Sabyasachi: Testament to the Indian shopper

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Star-like styling on Independence Day

Eager to commemorate the 75th Anniversary of Independence Day? There’s no easier way to do it then dressing for the occasion; take a cue from these celebrity closets…writes Olivia Sarkar

Madhuri Dixit

A saree in India trio of colours is a great way to start the day. It’s even better if you can get your hands on a handloom one. Madhuri Dixit’s printed chiffon in red, pinks and greens and white is the ideal pick.

Nora Fatehi

There is no denying that the lovely Nora Fatehi adores traditional clothing. Her floral salwar suit is a fantastic pick for the holiday as the multicoloured thread embroidery celebrated all things, India.

Sara Ali Khan

With a white chikankari kurta, green pants, and an orange dupatta, is a winning option which is both easy and fuss free. Sara Ali Khan brilliantly expresses her inner patriotism adding blue chakra earrings and accesorising with a flag.

Alia Bhatt

Alia Bhatt monotone saffron kurta in cotton is light and yet still speaks volumes.

Kriti Sanon

Kriti Sanon’s yellow salwar suit is the ideal choice if you want to wear something striking that is yet simple. The floor-length, mustard yellow anarkali printed in traditional floral motifs pays homage to Indian textiles.

Janhvi Kapoor

With this white and gold kurta, Janhvi Kapoor demonstrates how to pick an elegant and refined outfit, keeping it simple and feminine.

ALSO READ-Suitable fashion that suits occasions

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Fashion beyond boundaries

Fashion and fortitude made a winning combination as the Tamana kids were beautifully dressed by Anju Modi, Rajesh Pratap Singh, Payal Jain, Namrata Joshipura, Nitin Bal Chauhan, Reynu Taandon, Pawan Sachdeva, Dhruv Vaish, Neetu Singh and Abhi Singh…reports Asian Lite News

The NGO Tamana in collaboration with the Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI) organised its annual fashion show, on Friday, titled “Fashion Beyond Boundaries” (Khadi & handloom) co-hosted by the Hyatt Regency, Delhi.

The Chief Guest of the event was Shri U.P. Singh, Secretary, Ministry of Textiles, who was felicitated with the torchbearer of the year 2022 award, for his contribution to the handloom sector. Justice Dhananjaya Yeshwant Chandrachud was also present besides several other distinguished guests.

The event began on a soulful note, with an unforgettable performance by Diwakar of Sa Re Ga Ma Little Champs fame. Tamana along with her mother Padma Bhushan & Padma Shri Dr. Shayama Chona and the designers closed the show carrying the National Flag, supporting the #HarGharTiranga campaign.

Fashion and fortitude made a winning combination as the Tamana kids were beautifully dressed by Anju Modi, Rajesh Pratap Singh, Payal Jain, Namrata Joshipura, Nitin Bal Chauhan, Reynu Taandon, Pawan Sachdeva, Dhruv Vaish, Neetu Singh and Abhi Singh.

The designers set the rhythm with the colour wheel of maroon, Mehendi green, Haldi, indigo, and natural white, while the menswear designers paired Khadi with exquisite woollen fabrics, handwoven by the women weavers of Almora (Uttarakhand).

Dr. Shayama Chona, Founder and President, of Tamana said, “Staying committed to celebrating the beauty in diversity, our tireless efforts towards better representation of our Divya Gyan has allowed for an increasingly included society.

Inclusion is about giving every member of our community a chance to reach her fullest potential to ensure that each of us is able to contribute fully to our collective success as well. The founding principle of this fashion show is quite simple: all are created equal. And inclusion creates a unity that goes beyond fashion. I thank every entity committed to celebrating the beauty in diversity.”

“The FDCI has been associated with Tamana for many years now and this annual event is the most awaited show of the year. This is our way of celebrating the invincible spirit of the Tamana children as they add hues of happiness to the runway. Kudos to Tamana Chona for her artistic endeavours,” said FDCI Chairman Sunil Sethi.

ALSO READ-Tabu steps out in traditional weaves on Handloom day

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Suitable fashion that suits occasions

Anita Dongre’s Homage is a celebration of one of her basic beliefs: that each garment is honoured by the person who wears it. A variety of crafts and techniques, such as Bandhini and Benarasi, are reinterpreted in the collection, incorporating motifs and details…reports Asian Lite News

Raksha Bandhan, one of the most auspicious Indian occasions for siblings, is around the corner. The festival is celebrated with much enthusiasm and zeal, and it is the perfect time to take out those ethnic creations.

You can check out Label Asha Gautam’s latest collection, which consists of Banarasi, bandhani and Kalamkari applique kurtas paired with organza and chiffon dupattas. The colours are bright and fresh with delicate handwork, suitable for festive occasions like Rakhi.

Manyavar’s warmhearted #RakhiKaBroCode campaign honours the cherished moment between siblings. The collection features traditional styles in cool and vibrant colours.

Raksha Bandhan, literally translated, means “Safety and Bond.” A day that is recognised as the Day of the Siblings because on this day, sisters and brothers show their love for one another and pray for their wellbeing. trueBrowns Kurtis, pallazos, Indie tops, and bottoms with patterns and vibrant colors are perfect for millennials and Gen Z.

Rangriti’s wide selection of Indian clothing with western-inspired twists are distinctive and unusual. Siddharath Bindra, MD of Rangriti said: “This season we want to offer something different from the usual to our customers. We have always had patterns and trendy clothes but we have now introduced a flare of festive vibe to our pieces.”

Anita Dongre’s Homage is a celebration of one of her basic beliefs: that each garment is honoured by the person who wears it. A variety of crafts and techniques, such as Bandhini and Benarasi, are reinterpreted in the collection, incorporating motifs and details.

The goal of renowned designer brand Sheetal Batra is to bring modern flair to traditional designs. With a strong fervour to meld Indian culture with fashion and luxury, the company crafts classic items that highlight the allure of our exquisite history.

With the upcoming season of festivals and holidays ranging from Raksha Bandhan and Independence Day, all of us have celebrations galore in the coming days ahead. Who does not like the air thick with joy when merriment is on an all-time high and family time is prioritised?

With the onset of the upcoming festive season and celebrations, all of us are on the lookout for the perfect traditional attire to don or to gift as well! Fret not, you can from a range of options from LIBAS.

Having Arpita Mehta’s stylish co-ord sets featuring bright prints and cheerful colours are a great option for a fun casual Rakhi outing. You can team the capes with your own outfit and mix and match for fun styles.

Archana Jaju’s traditional designs are great for a formal Rakhi celebration at the in-laws. Share laughs looking your festive best.

If you and your sibling are heading out with friends for the evening, a Co-ord set from the House of Khaddar will see you through the wee hours or the morning.

Anavila Toys, Aprajita Toor, Fizzlet by Fizzy Goblet, Mahesh Notandass Fine Jewellery, Melissa are a few brands you can turn to for fashionable accessories to match your outfits.

ALSO READ-Tips to style co-ords for men

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‘Chakradhara’: A collection that weaves tiger’s stripes

On National Handloom Day, threading and working with the Banarasi Handloom under the vision and passionate enterprise of the Founder Sagrika Rai, for the upliftment and promotion of this artisanal craftsmanship and empowerment of weavers in the industry…reports Asian Lite News

“Chakradhara” is a collection that weaves together the tiger’s stripes, its kinship with nature, and its commitment to sustainability while evoking the very best of Indian craftsmanship and culture. This project expresses a passion for tigers that has the potential to significantly improve Indian audiences’ awareness of and still-evolving attitudes toward the preservation of the species, of nature, and of our forested regions.

With their distinctive handloom project “Chakradhara,” Warp ‘n Weft, a textile company that creates pure handloom Banarasi textiles, partners with WWF India to commemorate the Year of the Tiger and the conservation efforts to help the animal’s flourishing population.

Shraman Jha, Director-Marketing, Communications and Fundraising WWF India, said: “It is a unique partnership bringing together the two national heritages of India- handlooms and tigers together. Five decades of dedicated efforts to conserve tigers in India has brought out some significant results, a thriving population of big cats, the highest among all tiger range countries. We thank Warp ‘n Weft for conceptualising and weaving the banarasi handloom collection to celebrate the tiger.”

On National Handloom Day, threading and working with the Banarasi Handloom under the vision and passionate enterprise of the Founder Sagrika Rai, for the upliftment and promotion of this artisanal craftsmanship and empowerment of weavers in the industry. Emphasizing the relevance of the project ‘Chakradhara’, MsSagrika Rai, Founder & Creative Director, Warp ‘n Weft, said: “It is a strong, impactful collaboration between two ethical institutions. We pledge to contribute a part of the sales proceeds to WWF India, contributing to nature and wildlife conservation. We hope this handwoven project will further bring the deserved boost to tiger conservation and spread the word far and wide”.

A wildlife enthusiast, Rai’s husband, Dinkar Rai- took a picture of a tiger in Bandhavgarh National Reserve, which was used as the central basis for this project. Smitten by the beauty of the majestic Bengal Tiger, the team at Warp ‘n Weft created a tiger face graphed, loomed, and engineered to precision. After many iterations got close to the original photograph with the ethnic style of nakshikadhwa, a signaturetechnique of Banarasi Handloom weaving. The commitment to sustainability has remained paramount throughout this process, commissioning the grassroots master weavers from the historic handloom clusters of Varanasi with decades-long experience. The base texture of the fabric is a combination of natural yarns that harkens to the forest grasslands of India, ‘Chakradhara’, the lively meadows inside the Bandhavgarh National Reserve- taking inspiration from where the photo was taken.

ALSO READ-Modi’s love for Indian textiles showcased at Taj Palace

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‘Casual and comfortable’ B’town

One are the days when Bollywood fashionistas pulled out all the stops for their airport looks, and thank God for that. The uncomfortable heels, tight dresses and an overload of makeup are no longer in trend. Athleisure has taken centre stage, as comfortable and casual wear rule the runway.Take a look…writes Olivia Sarkar

Deepika Padukone

The actor choose joggers, a gunji and sneakers for her latest departure. Cascading hair and a million watt smile were here accessories of choice.

Varun Dhawan

Ripped denims and a knit tank top were all it took to make a stylish splash. Varun upped the accessories with headphones, shades, a cap and backpack.

Kiara Advani

The actor was dressed comfortably in a white knotted shirt and white pants. Minimal make-up and flats sealed the deal.

Kartik Aryan

Kartik Aryan was spotted in a black tracksuit teamed with a pair of shades for his latest on board expereice.

Anushka Sharma

The actor kept it cool and casual wearing a cropped black denim jacket with black joggers.



Vicky Kaushal

Vicky Kaushal was spotted in a sporty look, wearing cargo pants and a white tee with a hat.

Alia Bhatt

A pair of black shorts, an oversized printed shirt, a tote and sliders were all the Young Mrs. Bhatt-Kapoor needed for this airport run.

Katrina Kaif

Katrina Kaif dressed down in a pink sweatshirt and black leggings, casual yet fashionable we say!

ALSO READ-Manish Malhotra’s Mijwan celebrates 10 years

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‘I get inspired by people that I see or interact with’

However, being true to your own style is something that truly reigns supreme. Covid has made us introspect deeper into our lives and as a result, we’ve become more in sync with ourselves…Kunal Rawal speaks with NIMERTA C SHARAN

Popular menswear designer Kunal Rawal’s mood board might alter every season, but there are some elements that stay intact – versatility, gender fluidity, and functionality.

His recent couture outing at the FDCI India Couture Week 2022 also marked his 15 years in the industry. Taking inspiration from our diverse cultures and traditions, his collection, ‘Dear Men’ was dominant in structured pieces finished with exquisite embroideries and smart layering. Actor Arjun Kapoor closed the show for the designer in a tone-on-tone sherwani.

In an exclusive chat with Rawal spoke about his brand philosophy, inspiration, and things that matter.

How would you describe your aesthetic?

We are a luxury contemporary brand that highly values functionality. We don’t like to box our product within a certain aesthetic – we want to cater to each and every one.

Menswear is experiencing a wholesome shift. What’s trending according to you?

There are always new, different trends coming to the fore. However, being true to your own style is something that truly reigns supreme. Covid has made us introspect deeper into our lives and as a result, we’ve become more in sync with ourselves. People are dressing for themselves and not just following fads. Mood Dressing is big as well – people are wearing what makes them happy. Lastly, I think functionality as people are looking for products that are luxurious and versatile. They want something that gives them more value for their buck; something that can be reused and repurposed.

Your style inspiration?

I get inspired by people that I see or interact with. It’s a very layered approach but we try to incorporate this into our storyline. India has such an authentic street style which is so fascinating. Every state has a different language, culture, and clothing. Also, I am hugely inspired by Mumbai – its people, architecture, sea, and everything in between.

Please elaborate on the glow-in-the-dark technology.

As a brand, we love playing with technology. Since childhood, I’ve been fascinated with textiles what more can be created, and what can be done using technology. We’ve been exploring the glow-in-the-dark collection for the past year and a half and have been playing with pigments and mixing it with our threads to create unique hand embroideries. It’s been a lot of fun!

Your top three best-dressed?

Rawal: Well, it keeps changing. I think a lot of people dress well. Ranveer Singh because he dresses according to his mood and for himself. Miles Teller from Top Gun dresses really cool. And, I’m dressing not too badly myself right now. So maybe me?

What’s your take on sustainable fashion?

It’s the need of the hour. As a brand, we’ve always believed in conscious production. Now, more than ever, the industry is moving towards sustainability. Also, consumers are making ethical choices – this will automatically curb fast fashion. I think the conversation around sustainability has been so strong in the last few years in India, that it is now more than just a concept. We have clients who want to know about the product, materials, sourcing, etc.

What have been your learnings from the pandemic?

Rawal: It’s been hard for everyone. The new normal has brought a lot of things into perspective. It’s taught me to have a Plan A and Plan B – something that I never believed in before. It’s important to have a strong backup plan in place. Another big learning has been ‘focus’. There’s so much to do and there always will be but until you don’t prioritise and focus on things that matter, you will not see movement.

What future plans for the brand?

Well, there’s so much to do because our journey of 15 years has been about finding acceptance with our aesthetic, pushing the envelope with contemporary Indian menswear. While we have made our mark and have a strong and discernible consumer base, I feel that we haven’t even scratched the surface when it comes to design.

Therefore, we are going to focus on growing our aesthetic and applying it to different kinds of products in apparel and otherwise. We cater to occasions and functions and yet our range is so diverse – from modern luxury to deep-rooted traditional. We plan to build on this aesthetic and take it to people that connect with it.

ALSO READ-Burberry features first Sikh child model

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Modi’s love for Indian textiles showcased at Taj Palace

Keeping things dramatic and super glam, designer duo Rohit Gandhi and Rahul Khanna’s couture line, ‘Fibonacci’ was packed with red-carpet worthy gowns…Reports  Nimerta C Sharan

Industry veteran Anju Modi, and designer duo Rohit & Rahul Khanna showcased their couture collections at the Taj Palace, New Delhi. Known for her dreamy and intricately detailed ensembles, Modi’s line of lehengas, modern saris and fusion ensembles made for some striking festive wear options.

Modi’s love for Indian textiles and crafts have always been a principal part of her design process. With this collection, she incorporated several techniques such as vegetable dyeing, traditional embroideries, weaving and block printing. Actress Aditi Rao Hydari who walked for the designer looked regal in an embellished yellow lehenga.

Keeping things dramatic and super glam, designer duo Rohit Gandhi and Rahul Khanna’s couture line, ‘Fibonacci’ was packed with red-carpet worthy gowns. Over the years, the designers have not only found loyal fans amongst Bollywood A-listers but also amid young fashion enthusiasts. On the men’s fashion front, there were plenty of styles on display -asymmetrical kurtas with jackets, detailed suits and velvet blazers. The very stylish Malaika Arora closed the show for the duo dressed in a black thigh-high slit gown paired with a dazzling necklace.

ALSO READ-Tips to style co-ords for men

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Tips to style co-ords for men

Go for small or handy bags: Instead of letting your pants sag with the keys, phone, charger, earbuds, and all your accessories, choose to go modish with small or handy bags. Bags like messenger, cross body, beach, and gym bags are designed to give stylish room to all your everyday essentials…writes N. LOTHUNGBENI HUMTSOE

Co-ords have come a long way to becoming socially acceptable. From a slouchy outfit to gaining a bona fide status in the menswear world, this loungewear is the best style statement to wear nowadays! To create a modish look, co-ord set is the most comfortable and chic and can be worn from parties to drive-in date. The best way to style is to keep it simple and accessories minimally. Ashutosh Sirohiya, Senior Designer, Snitch shares five different tips to style co-ords for men:

Accessorise with chains, bracelets, and glasses: Co-ords come in various assortments such as flower print, one solid colour, animal print, and so much more! It’s recommend selecting minimalistic accessories for a balanced look to best carry the co-ord sets with busy prints. When you choose to wear one solid colour co-ord, it’s fun to complete the look with large and dramatic accessories.

Shoes that suit the co-ord set: You can style your comfy and stylish co-rd with the shoes that suit to make it a chic style statement. If you want to amp up your style game, then pair a simple patterned co-ord set with sneakers, solid and dark coloured co-ords with trainers, dye-printed co-ords with buckle strap open-toe flats, and funky printed co-ords with Hawaiian slippers.

Go for small or handy bags: Instead of letting your pants sag with the keys, phone, charger, earbuds, and all your accessories, choose to go modish with small or handy bags. Bags like messenger, cross body, beach, and gym bags are designed to give stylish room to all your everyday essentials. Remember to choose the right bag depending upon the place you are visiting and the occasion you are wearing the co-ord for.

Layer with an over shirt and jacket: Layering is a four-season look and it’s always recommended to define the layering first to see how it interacts with your co-ord set. T-shirt co-ord with knee shorts or pajama can be layered with an oversized shirt or jacket. Layering with a contrasting coloured cardigan or knitwear in winter will add warmth to your look and will go well with the look.

Keep it untucked or partially tucked: Simple rule to abide by before you decide to untuck or partially tuck the co-ord shirt- maximum style or optimal comfort! Quickly scan the hem of your shirt. If the hem is even, untucked is the best way to go. If the hem is uneven, it’s meant to be tucked/partially tucked. Not every time scanning the hem helps you decide it. You can also check the fabric. Untuck the shirt if the fabric is bulky or stiff (denim, wool) and you can partially tuck the shirt if the fabric is light (linen, cotton, satin).

ALSO READ-‘I love my life and my job’

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Manish Malhotra’s Mijwan celebrates 10 years

To support the designer, Bollywoods leading power couple actors Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh walked the runway as show stoppers…reports Asian Lite News

While Delhi plays host to India’s biggest couture event, Mumbai was in for a treat as designer Manish Malhotra presented his Mijwan collection last evening. The show was live streamed on the designer’s social media handle @manishmalhotraworld.

The Mijwan Couture show celebrates 10 years this season, with a breathtaking collection of lehengas, saris and contemporary styles for women and sherwanis and achkans for men. The evening was a celebration of the designer’s association with the Mijwan Welfare Society founded by the late Urdu poet Kaifi Azmi to empower women in Mijwan, a tiny village in Azamgarh Eastern UP.

To support the designer, Bollywoods leading power couple actors Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh walked the runway as show stoppers. Cheering on the Malhotra was a star studded front row featuring the likes of Shabana Azmi, Gauri Khan, Shibani Dandekar Akhtar, Neelam Kothari, Raveena Tandon, Maheep Kapoor and many more.

ALSO READ-Manish Malhotra’s 3,000 hours curated Alia Bhatt’s stunning mehendi lehenga