Fenty Beauty envisions bringing a carefully curated and easily accessible selection from Rihanna’s beloved beauty brand. Nykaa will offer a line-up of Fenty Beauty’s best-selling products, including the iconic Pro Filt’r Soft Matte Longwear Foundation, Killawatt Freestyle Highlighter, Gloss Bomb Universal Lip Luminizer, and much more…reports Asian Lite News
Rihanna who painted Gujarat’s Jamnagar city red with her performance during the pre-wedding celebrations of Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant has now made an iconic move by launching her Fenty Beauty brand in India.
The beauty brand which was developed in 2017 with a vision of inclusivity and global reach at its core will now become even more accessible to consumers at Nykaa’s Cross Border Store on March 7th, 2024
“Fenty Beauty was created so that people everywhere would be included. Expanding to India is so exciting because the more people that can feel beautiful, recognised, and empowered, no matter their ethnicity, culture, skin tone, or style the better,” said Rihanna.
Fenty Beauty envisions bringing a carefully curated and easily accessible selection from Rihanna’s beloved beauty brand. Nykaa will offer a line-up of Fenty Beauty’s best-selling products, including the iconic Pro Filt’r Soft Matte Longwear Foundation, Killawatt Freestyle Highlighter, Gloss Bomb Universal Lip Luminizer, and much more.
“We are thrilled to begin our partnership with one of the most innovative and disruptive beauty brands in the world, Fenty Beauty. The brand’s ethos of diversity and inclusivity is a perfect fit for Nykaa’s mission of democratizing beauty for all Indians. We look forward to working closely with Fenty Beauty to bring the best of global beauty into our consumers’ hearts and homes,” said Anchit Nayar, Executive Director and CEO, of Nykaa Beauty.
Fenty Beauty offers a wide range of artistry-quality products designed with Rihanna’s vision of making sure people everywhere feel represented, with a focus on traditionally hard-to-match skin tones, formulas that work for all skin types, textures that love to be layered, and universal shades for all to enjoy.
Upon entering the pop-up store, shoppers are welcomed by a full display of 15 REPLICA fragrances on an island pedestal as they embark on a personal memory-evoking journey…reports Asian Lite News
Maison Margiela Fragrances in partnership with Global SS Beauty Brands Ltd. its exclusive distributor in India, has opened its first fragrance pop up store in Mumbai at Jio World Drive. The new pop-up store offers a full line-up of the house’s iconic REPLICA perfume collection as well as a selection of home scenting and bath and body products.
Enter a sophisticated, luxurious scent-uary that is set to evoke memories through a series of olfactory delight and visual storytelling. Bathed in a full off- white, sleek interior, the minimalist space is accented by pastel-coloured acrylic tubes above head that artistically mimic a pearlescent rainbow.
Upon entering the pop-up store, shoppers are welcomed by a full display of 15 REPLICA fragrances on an island pedestal as they embark on a personal memory-evoking journey.
Within the pop up, a beautifully set-up REPLICA discovery wall showcases the iconic fragrance range, each accompanied by a key visual that represents the memory or emotion of the scent. This further allows shoppers to cathartically relive those momentous memory, feelings, provenance or period in time, either with themselves or with those whom they cherish.
On the opposite side of the discovery wall is the home scenting and bath and body wall that holds a range of candles, home sprays, shower gels, body lotions and hand creams, to complement shoppers’ fragrance lifestyle in their living spaces and personal time.
Shoppers are also able to “immortalise” their favourite memory with a photo print-out that can be inserted into a specially designed fragrance cotton pouch at the personalisation area in the boutique. This special service is complimentary with every purchase of a 100ml REPLICA perfume bottle.
Feel the care and comfort of REPLICA’s bath and body collection that has been formulated with high-quality ingredients and finished in Maison Margiela’s iconic stitch packaging. Available in shower gel, body lotion and hand cream in the signature Lazy Sunday Morning, these products let you relive cherished memories throughout the day.
Commenting on the partnership, Biju Kassim, Customer Care Associate and CEO Beauty at Shoppers Stop said, “Global SS Beauty Brands Ltd. is proud to be part of Maison Margiela Fragrances’ journey in India, bringing a world-class fragrance and lifestyle experience to the heart of Mumbai. The Maison Margiela Fragrances pop-up store is set to be a destination for those seeking a sensory adventure and a personalized touch to their fragrance journey.”
GSSBB and Maison Margiela welcomes you to Indulge in a luxurious sanctuary of scents that artfully evokes memories through a captivating blend of olfactory pleasures and visual storytelling at THE pop-up store in Jio World Drive.
Visit the new Maison Margiela fragrance pop up store at Jio World Drive, outside Tira Store; opening hours are 11am to 10pm.
Experience a unique fusion of styles with UNIQLO’s genderless collection, featuring light silhouettes that embody limitless freedom. Explore a lifestyle where every garment represents a celebration of individuality and self-expression…reports Asian Lite News
This season, embrace everyday living with UNIQLO’s 2024 Spring/Summer collection, which exudes lightness and functionality. The collection resonates with the season’s mood, wrapped in soft pale tones like ecru and mauve pink.
With attention to colour, material, and function, this wardrobe is designed to be light in every way, bringing brightness to your everyday attire.
Taking inspiration from watching people on the street with highly functional items – new fits with a clean and casual style for work and play. And seeing people moving with ease between settings, tastes, and styles, the brand’s S/S 2024 focuses on the idea of “ease into lightness.”
Here are some of the new collection’s highlights that you can add to your cart to start planning your spring wardrobe:
Lightness in Lifestyle
Experience a unique fusion of styles with UNIQLO’s genderless collection, featuring light silhouettes that embody limitless freedom. Explore a lifestyle where every garment represents a celebration of individuality and self-expression.
American Sleeve Bra Sleeveless Top: The American Sleeve Bra Sleeveless Top is sleek, and flattering made using opaque, narrow-ribbed fabric. Made with built-in cups, its versatile design is ideal for layering or wearing on its own. The airy shoulder shape and versatile length make it effortless to style with high-waisted bottoms.
Drapey Denim Pleated Pants: Featuring stylish pleats at the front and a relaxed, wide-leg cut, the Drapey Denim Pleated Pants offer both style and everyday functionality. Made using Blue Cycle Jeans technology for reduced water usage, these pants are both fashionable and eco-conscious.
Extra Stretch AIRism Sleeveless Dress: Crafted from smooth, comfortable ‘AIRism’ fabric with quick-drying DRY technology and Cool Touch function, the Extra Stretch AIRism Sleeveless Dress features a fit-and-flare silhouette. The dress also offers practicality with pockets on both sides. Its long length adds sophistication, making it perfect for the office or casual outings.
AIRism Drape Short Sleeve T-Shirt: The AIRism Drape Short Sleeve T-Shirt is designed for functionality and freshness with its comfortable ‘AIRism’ fabric and relaxed cut. Featuring a wide neckline and a drape around the shoulders and sleeves, this t-shirt offers a relaxed cut. Its not-too-wide hem makes it easy to tuck in, ensuring versatility and ease of styling for any occasion.
Ultra Stretch DRY-EX Full-Zip Hoodie: The Ultra Stretch DRY-EX Full-Zip Hoodie has been engineered for optimal comfort and performance. Crafted from breathable contoured knitted mesh fabric with UV Protection technology, this hoodie ensures coolness and UPF50+ UV protection. Its Ultra Stretch and quick-drying ‘DRY-EX’ properties, coupled with raglan sleeves offer unparalleled functionality.
Dry-EX Short Sleeve T-Shirt: Crafted with Quick-drying ‘DRY-EX’ technology, the Dry-EX Short Sleeve T-shirt ensures lasting freshness by swiftly absorbing sweat and controlling odor. Its glossy fabric and wide hems give it extra comfort.
Easy Cargo Pants: Easy Cargo Pants are designed for ultimate comfort for both men and women. Crafted from soft, brushed cotton-nylon fabric, these pants are airy and lightweight. With a pull-on design, wide cut, and casual stitching, it offers ease of movement and a casual laid-back style.
Parachute Pants: Parachute Pants redefine comfort and functionality with their lightweight design and features. Engineered with DRY technology and UPF50+ UV protection, it offers a stay-fresh feel and protection from the sun during outdoor activities. Additionally, stoppers at the hems allow for customizable styling options, while tucks at the knees and dot buttons on the back pockets add unique touches to the design, ensuring both style and everyday practicality.
Lightness in Function
Embrace a modern, clean work style with a neutral palette, ensuring versatility combined with sophistication in every ensemble.
Miracle Air Jacket (Airsense Jacket): The Miracle Air Jacket (Airsense Jacket) is a pinnacle of lightweight comfort and versatility. Enhanced with two-way stretch for effortless movement, this jacket offers UPF50+ UV protection and moisture-wicking DRY technology for unparalleled performance. Its updated length pairs seamlessly with any bottoms, while features like the added inside pocket elevate its everyday practicality.
Pleated Wide Pants: The Pleated Wide Pants are meticulously designed to offer both style and ease of movement. Crafted with wide cuts and tucks for a flattering fit, these pants feature all-direction stretch and a high waist for optimal comfort. Made from premium fabric with an elegant drape, they offer a polished appearance while being wrinkle-resistant for easy care. With thoughtful details such as an elastic waist, single tuck, centre pleat at the front, and belt loops, these pants are easy to dress up or down.
AIRism UV Protection Crew Neck T-Shirt: The AIRism UV Protection Crew Neck T-Shirt is made using AIRism technology against a luxurious silk blend fabric with added UV protection alongside DRY, Cool Touch, moisture-wicking, and odor control features. It offers day-long comfort, making it perfect for everyday wear, whether one is layering it or wearing it on its own.
Miracle Air Pants (Airsense Pants): The Miracle Air Pants (Airsense Pants) have been crafted to embody both comfort and versatility. Made using lightweight stretch fabric developed in collaboration with Toray, these pants offer a stay-fresh feel and high-performance features such as wrinkle resistance and quick-drying features.
AIRism Mesh UV Protection Full-Zip Hoodie: Discover the essence of functionality and ease with UNIQLO’s AIRism Mesh UV Protection Full-Zip Hoodie. Crafted from breathable mesh with a Cool Touch function for instant cooling, this hoodie also features UV Protection technology and ‘AIRism’ fabric with a deodorizing feature. With an adjustable drawstring at the hood and a packable design for easy carrying, it offers convenience and versatility. The slightly relaxed cut and mid-hip length makes it ideal for sports, leisure, or casual wear.
UNIQLO U Crew Neck Short Sleeve T-Shirt: The UNIQLO U Crew Neck Short Sleeve T-Shirt is a versatile everyday essential designed for both standalone wear and layering. Made with compact cotton fabric, it boasts a smooth surface, and its fitted silhouette ensures a polished look.
Lightness in Texture
Experience the epitome of summer comfort with UNIQLO’s linen and cotton collection, crafted from lightweight, high-quality natural materials. Embrace a sense of lightness in both body and mind as you indulge in a summer casual style reminiscent of a relaxing vacation.
Linen Blend Open Collar Short Sleeve Shirt: The UNIQLO Linen Blend Open Collar Short Sleeve Shirt is a versatile addition to one’s wardrobe offering effortless style. Crafted with a blend of smooth rayon and cool linen, this shirt features a sleek open-collar design. Worn on its own or as a light outer layer, it adds a touch of sophistication to any ensemble.
Linen Blend Square Neck Short Sleeve Dress: An embodiment of easy elegance the UNIQLO Linen Blend Square Neck Short Sleeve Dress is made using refined linen blend fabric. This dress features a graceful fit-and-flare cut and a flattering square neckline. Its beautiful, paneled design, complete with side pockets and a slide fastener at the back, exudes sophistication.
Washable Knit Ribbed Pants: The UNIQLO Washable Knit Ribbed Pants, designed for style and convenience are crafted from soft knit fabric. With a casual straight cut and a wide elastic waistband featuring an outer drawstring, it offers a relaxed fit. Machine-washable for easy care, these pants are perfect for loungewear or casual everyday styling.
Cotton Linen Stand Collar Long Sleeve Shirt: The timeless UNIQLO Cotton Linen Stand Collar Long Sleeve Shirt comes with enhanced softness. This update retains the coolness of linen while offering superior comfort with a roomier fit in the shoulders, chest, and hem. Featuring a refined stand collar, this shirt transitions effortlessly from day to night and from work to play.
Geared Shorts: Crafted from nylon ripstop material with a water-repellent finish, the UNIQLO Geared Shorts offer durability and practicality. Featuring a convenient side pocket with a slide fastener and utility design elements such as an easy buckle belt and high-capacity pockets, these shorts are perfect for both urban adventures and outdoor activities.
Sunglasses are a must-have accessory for any fashionista, and Tiger is no exception. Opt for a pair of classy sunglasses that not only protect your eyes but also add a touch of sophistication to your outfit…reports Asian Lite News
Tiger Shroff, the epitome of fitness and style, turns heads wherever he goes. Known for his impeccable fashion sense and effortless charm, Tiger’s wardrobe is a treasure trove of inspiration for fashion enthusiasts. Let’s take a closer look at five must-have wardrobe essentials inspired by the actor himself.
Denim Jacket: A denim jacket is a versatile piece that can be dressed up or down, making it a staple in Tiger’s wardrobe. Cop the look from Lee Cooper denim collection. Pair it with a plain white tee and chunky denim jeans for a casual yet stylish look that is sure to turn heads.
Classy Sunglasses: Sunglasses are a must-have accessory for any fashionista, and Tiger is no exception. Opt for a pair of classy sunglasses that not only protect your eyes but also add a touch of sophistication to your outfit.
Comfy Formal Trousers: Tiger effortlessly blends comfort with style, and his choice of comfy formal trousers is a testament to that. Invest in a pair of well-tailored formal trousers that allow you to move freely while looking sharp and polished.
Sports Wear: Tiger’s love for fitness is well-known, and his wardrobe reflects that. Invest in some stylish sportswear that not only keeps you comfortable during your workout but also allows you to make a fashion statement while hitting the gym.
Chunky Denim Jeans: Tiger is often seen sporting chunky denim jeans that perfectly complement his muscular physique. Invest in a pair of well-fitted denim jeans that hug your curves in all the right places for a look that is both comfortable and stylish.
Shraddha Kapoor effortlessly blends Indian and Western elements to create fusion saree looks that are both stylish and unconventional. She has been seen pairing sarees with crop tops, blazers, or even denim jackets for a contemporary twist…reports Asian Lite News
Sarees have traditionally represented elegance and grace in Indian fashion, and Bollywood superstars such as Shraddha Kapoor have been spotted wearing exquisite saree ensembles that inspire millions. With her impeccable style and flair, Shraddha effortlessly carries off sarees with poise and charm.
Check out the top five saree styles of the actress from the film ‘Tu Jhoothi Main Makkaar’ that you may replicate to add a touch of Bollywood glitter to your wardrobe.
Traditional Elegance: Shraddha Kapoor’s traditional saree looks often feature timeless elegance and grace. She has been spotted in classic silk sarees adorned with intricate embroidery or rich zari work. To recreate this look, opt for a silk saree in vibrant colors like red, green, or royal blue. Pair it with traditional jewelry such as jhumkas, bangles, and a statement necklace to complete the regal ensemble.
Contemporary Chic: Shraddha Kapoor also embraces contemporary saree styles with panache. She experiments with modern silhouettes, unique drapes, and unconventional fabrics. To channel her contemporary chic vibe, try a pre-draped saree or a saree gown in soft pastel hues or monochrome tones. Accessorize with sleek accessories and minimalist jewelry for a sophisticated yet trendy look.
Floral Fantasy: Floral sarees are a favorite among Bollywood celebrities, and Shraddha Kapoor is no exception. She often opts for sarees featuring delicate floral prints or intricate floral embroidery. To recreate her floral fantasy look, choose a lightweight georgette or chiffon saree or a saree made of a Liva Fabric adorned with floral motifs. Pair it with subtle makeup, soft curls, and floral accessories for a feminine and romantic vibe.
Fusion: Shraddha Kapoor effortlessly blends Indian and Western elements to create fusion saree looks that are both stylish and unconventional. She has been seen pairing sarees with crop tops, blazers, or even denim jackets for a contemporary twist.
Minimalistic Magic: Sometimes, less is more, and Shraddha Kapoor’s minimalistic saree looks are a testament to that. She opts for simple yet elegant sarees in muted tones like ivory, beige, or blush pink. To recreate her minimalistic magic, choose a lightweight saree with clean lines and subtle embellishments. Pair it with dainty jewelry, a sleek bun, and a subtle makeup look for understated sophistication.
First making her world debut in October 2017 as a collectable figurine, this February, Vivienne has been reborn as six larger-than-life statues positioned around Atlantis The Royal, each with their personality and story…reports Asian Lite News
Louis Vuitton and Atlantis The Royal have joined forces in a unique collaboration to celebrate the first anniversary of the world’s most ultra-luxury experiential resort. To mark Atlantis The Royal’s milestone birthday, Louis Vuitton’s iconic Vivienne mascot has travelled from Paris to Dubai to join the celebrations and embark on the most joyous travel experience yet.
Hanan Eissa, Vice President, Marketing and Public Relations at Atlantis Dubai said, “The whole idea started with Vivienne, who is essentially an iconic and emblematic mascot for Louis Vuitton. Vivienne embodies liveliness, fun, and all the craftsmanship of the Maison. Whilst Vivienne’s adventures have taken them surfing, flying in a Monogram balloon, and into the world of jewellery, Louis Vuitton never really played with Vivienne on a large scale before, so this is where we started.”
First making her world debut in October 2017 as a collectable figurine, this February, Vivienne has been reborn as six larger-than-life statues positioned around Atlantis The Royal, each with their personality and story.
At three meters tall and specially crafted in Dubai using a combination of traditional and modern craftsmanship techniques, each Vivienne invites guests to open portals to new horizons, where unforgettable visions of fantasy and play come alive via a thrilling AR experience. Plus, guests can admire two 10-metre-tall inflatable Viviennes located at the entrance of the ultra-luxury resort and on top of Estiatorio Milos.
Speaking on the collaboration, Timothy Kelly, President of Atlantis comments “One year ago we bought Beyoncé to help us introduce Atlantis The Royal to the world, so for our first birthday we wanted to steer away from the expectations of holding another event and head towards something a little more surprising. Working closely with the Louis Vuitton team, we’ve been able to harness the intersection between fashion, art, and travel yet again, to create another iconic Atlantis experience, but this time, we invite the world to come and celebrate along with us”.
In a nod to Louis Vuitton’s heritage as a luxury trunk maker and its know-how in the art of luxury travel, the six Viviennes depict the playful character experiencing the resort on the ultimate vacation. From the elegant and cosmopolitan Jetsetter Vivienne, who is never without their Pharrell Williams X Louis Vuitton sunglasses, to the curious and playful Roller Vivienne snapping a photo or three next to Droplets in the lavish lobby.
Guests can even spot a relaxed Sailor Vivienne, who loves to simply float through each day in the resort’s famous fire and water fountain Skyblaze; each Vivienne brings a surprise and delight moment to all corners of the resort.
As guests explore Atlantis The Royal, they can also delve into the world of Vivienne via a digital map that will reveal the location of the Vivienne sculptures across the resort. Once a Vivienne is located, an animated marker will appear on the map.
Perfectly blending the digital with the physical, Louis Vuitton and Atlantis The Royal have also dreamed up a limited edition collection of 18 trunk stickers to celebrate the resort’s first birthday. Guests will be gifted one collectable sticker for each night’s stay until 31st May 2024, creating unforgettable memories.
The collaboration began following the opening of Louis Vuitton at Atlantis The Royal in November 2023. As their first resort store in the Middle East, the two brands found harmony in their combined ethos of energising every moment with next-level joy and savoir-faire.
2024, DESIGN EAST X Jaipur Rugs, reflect the ethos of sustainability and ethical practice exemplify the kind of leadership needed in today’s art and design world, writes Soniya Kirpalani
(Images/ Video: A Style Statement -By Santosh Rai)
After a triumphant showcasing of Uncommon Threads in Dubai 2023, DESIGN EAST continues to innovate and foster collaboration between artists and weavers. Rue Kothari, Founder & Creative Director is focused on expanding the possibilities of creative expression, beyond mediums, towards creating economic, environmental and societal impact.
Bridging collaborations between creators from different backgrounds, Rue Kothari designed DESIGN EAST as a platform where masters of traditional craftsmanship meet leading contemporary artist and collectively work towards generating new forms of art that is challenging perceptions and diminishing the dividing line between arts and crafts. Rue Kothari’s role in this endeavor is pivotal, highlighting her commitment to support the craftspeople artists and designers from the Global South and her drive to find synergies with established artists and brands.
2024, DESIGN EAST X Jaipur Rugs, reflect the ethos of sustainability and ethical practice exemplify the kind of leadership needed in today’s art and design world. This project not only marks a bold evolution for DESIGNEAST but also sets a precedent for future collaborations that seek to marry art, crafts, aesthetics with sustainability, meshing tradition with innovation. At the heart of this collaboration is Rue Kothari, the enabler and curator, whose vision for a more interconnected and value-driven creative world has led to the inception of a truly remarkable project.
By pairing five artists from the Middle East with five weavers from Jaipur, Kothari has facilitated a unique dialogue between diverse artistic languages and traditions, culminating in the creation of five distinctive textile artworks. In a world where the intersection of art and sustainability grows increasingly paramount, the recent collaboration between DESIGNEAST and Jaipur Rugs emerges as a beacon of creative and ethical innovation. This underscores the profound impact of artistic synergy on the sustainability movement within the global design landscape.
Rue Kothari’s efforts exemplify the essence of leadership needed in today’s rapidly evolving art and design sphere. Her initiatives underscore a deep-rooted belief in the power of collaborative creativity to transcend traditional boundaries, fostering a global community where art is not only a form of expression but a catalyst for real-world impact. This collection, which will be unveiled during Art Week Dubai at the Jaipur Rugs showroom in Alserkal Avenue on 29th February 2024, Dubai UAE.
Believing that fashion has always made a social statement and reflected on value systems, Tahiliani believes that it has always been the reflection of ideologies enveloping people in different eras…reports Sukant Deepak
He is happy that the individual is coming back. That the young are no longer afraid to be themselves. That one does not feel the need to fit in. Standing out is no longer sacrilege. Fun, he says, is important. And therefore, simplicity is coming back with a vengeance.
Noted for combining traditional aesthetics with ultra-modern designs, veteran Delhi-based designer Tarun Tahiliani, known for his bridal wear, tells, “Over the years, I have seen so many changes in the way women dress up for their big day. There was a period when they were obsessed with looking like someone, thus ending up being completely ridiculous. Now, so many young brides are wearing a simple garment with just a single necklace — and ending up ruling the whole space.
“That is where confidence comes in. This generation is different. They are connected to the world. They do not feel guilty about having fun, are willing to go quirky, and do not follow any rules. This infuses a new rush in designers like us.”
Tahiliani, who has always been interested in structured draping and layering, smiles that it is one of the reasons he goes to the Kumbh Mela.
“There are sadhus and regular people there, but just look at the way those coming from diverse parts drape themselves. It is almost exquisite. If you have an eye, you will notice a peculiar sense of style that is accentuated by a ‘purpose’. What they wear are clothes. But not just clothes..” says this pass-out from the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) in New York.
For someone who has worked extensively with the blouse and reinvented it consistently, the designer, who was recently part of a session at the Jaipur Literature Festival, says, “I consider the choli as a work of art. It is lovely to see women wearing it with skirts, palazzos and pants. The sheer flexibility of the garment opens up so many possibilities.”
Believing that fashion has always made a social statement and reflected on value systems, Tahiliani believes that it has always been the reflection of ideologies enveloping people in different eras.
“One can get apprehensive about political statements considering the looming danger of ‘trial by mob’…
Talk to him about the army of fashion influencers at shows and on Instagram, and he asserts that they must be doing something right for people to follow them. “But sadly, many of them do not have a point of view.”
The designer, who came back to India after studying Business Management at the Wharton Business School, University of Pennsylvania and first joined the family business in oil-field equipment, later co-founding the multi-designer boutique, ‘Ensemble’ in 1987 and Tahiliani Design studio in 1990, says, “I grew up in an anglicised part of the country.
“We went to fancy schools. But when my journey into the world of fashion started, I started seeing so many new layers of this country. India made me change what I wanted to do as a designer. This journey manifested itself into beautiful Indian clothes.”
The e-commerce giant also mentioned that Bazaar will offer sellers access to tens of millions of customers, “hassle-free” delivery and levy zero referral fee….reports Asian Lite News
E-commerce giant Amazon is set to launch a low-priced fashion and lifestyle vertical called ‘Bazaar’ in India.
According to a communication the company has sent to its partners, the new vertical Bazaar is a special store where no “extra charges” will be imposed on vendors supplying unbranded and “trendy” fashion and lifestyle products, reports TechCrunch.
“Your products will be featured in a special store on Amazon, making them easy for customers to find,” the company wrote in the communication.
The items sold via Bazaar will be priced under Rs 600, the report noted.
In the communication, the e-commerce giant also mentioned that Bazaar will offer sellers access to tens of millions of customers, “hassle-free” delivery and levy zero referral fee.
Meanwhile, net sales for Amazon increased 14 per cent to $170 billion in the holiday quarter that ended December 31, 2023, compared with $149.2 billion in the fourth quarter of 2022.
Amazon CEO Andy Jassy said the past holiday season was “record-breaking.”
Net income increased to $10.6 billion in the fourth quarter of 2023, compared with $0.3 billion in the fourth quarter of 2022. Amazon Web Services (AWS) segment sales increased 13 per cent year-over-year to $24.2 billion.
Our latest collection, Titan Stellar, is a great example of turning exciting concepts into exceptional products at Titan. It captures the spirit of human exploration, aligning with the significant trend in popular culture as space travel becomes a reality…says Mahendra Chauhan
At Titan, the core design philosophy centers around inspiring people through innovative and captivating designs. To create a meaningful impact through design and inspire individuals to pursue their highest aspirations, it is crucial to continuously gather insights from people, experiment with fresh and innovative ideas, and harness the full potential of design.
Good design seamlessly blends handcrafted techniques with new emerging technology, creating a contrast between two spaces that excites people’s imagination. Importantly, most of the watches at Titan are carefully polished and put together by hand, celebrating the human touch in a world inspired by technology.
Mahendra Chauhan, Head of Design- Watches, Wearables, and Accessories at Titan talks about the brand’s core design philosophy for watches and wearables.
Read Excerpts:
In your role, how do you anticipate and integrate emerging trends in watch and wearable design? Can you give an example of a recent trend that Titan has successfully incorporated into its products?
Chauhan: The Titan design team employs a robust process for trend identification, delving into megatrends and micro trends. Megatrends encompass larger scenarios shaping our world, such as sustainability or wellness. On the other hand, micro trends are derived from megatrends and define the style treatments of fashion products.
At Titan, we pride ourselves on establishing and leading watch trends rather than merely following them. As a design team, we actively engage in national and international fairs and design weeks, absorbing and infusing new ideas into material and technology spaces.
Our latest collection, Titan Stellar, is a great example of turning exciting concepts into exceptional products at Titan. It captures the spirit of human exploration, aligning with the significant trend in popular culture as space travel becomes a reality.
Sustainability is a significant concern in today’s world. How is Titan addressing this in the design and manufacturing of watches and wearables?
Chauhan: Titan adopts a holistic approach to sustainability that extends beyond the products themselves. A noteworthy achievement is that eighty percent of the energy required by our factories in Hosur is sourced from wind energy. We uphold a commitment to water conservation by recycling water in our campuses and factory setups, actively contributing to our goal of achieving carbon neutrality. Additionally, a majority of our products crafted in brass utilize recycled brass blanks. In a stride toward greener practices, Titan watches now feature more sustainable straps made from materials like khadi, apple, pineapple, and bamboo. Notably, Fastrack has launched the REVIVE collection, showcasing watches with straps made from recycled ocean plastic—an innovative and forward-looking step towards environmentally conscious timepieces.
How does Titan leverage consumer insights to inform its design process? Are there plans to offer more personalized or customizable options in the future?
Chauhan: We build every design story and collection on the foundation of consumer insights. Following the double-diamond design model, we emphasize consumer insights and ideation before implementing prototypes, ensuring a thoughtful and consumer-centric design process.
We maintain a robust idea feedback system that includes consumer panel reviews and feedback at every critical stage.
While we value consumer feedback at Titan, we also firmly believe in providing consumers with novel and delightful experiences. Our design process is focused on offering creative and innovative product offerings that go beyond traditional consumer requirements.
Titan is a well-known brand in India. Are there any plans for expanding your watch and wearable lines to international markets? If so, how will the designs cater to different cultural preferences?
Chauhan: Titan has a global presence, with a strong foothold in the Middle East and Far East countries. Titan products are readily available online in the USA as well. We launched specific collections tailored to the needs of different audiences by studying their preferences. Our robust international business team assists in converting insights into desirable products for various regions. A recent example is the Marhaba collection, designed with Emirati tastes and preferences for the audience in the UAE.
Collaborations and Partnerships: Does Titan have plans for any upcoming collaborations with designers or tech companies to create unique watches and wearables?
Chauhan: Certainly, Titan regularly collaborates with design houses, having partnered with Masaba and Tarun Tahiliani in the recent past, and various design-led studios and companies to infuse fresh perspectives into watch design. We will continue to explore collaborations with the plethora of talented designers in India based on brand synergies and design ethos.
What do you see as the biggest challenges and opportunities in the watch and wearable industry today?
Chauhan: Watches and smart wearables complement each other seamlessly, with the challenges of one presenting opportunities for the other. While wearables are now being positioned as fitness devices, watches are fast becoming fashion statements that help in expressing your individuality and personal style. Watches convey a sense of taste, whereas wearables offer multifunctionality for enhanced efficiency. A significant challenge for the watch industry is attracting the younger generation (Gen Z) as their focus has shifted from analog to digital watches. Our goal is to bring the focus back to analog watches with designs that resonate with younger audiences. We continue to analyze and implement the trends of today in our upcoming designs to cater to the needs of consumers.
Future of Watch Design: Looking ahead, how do you envision the future of watch design and functionality?
Chauhan: Watches serve as instruments for expressing one’s personality, and we anticipate a larger trend toward analog and mechanical watches in this realm. Mechanical watches, by the virtue of being handcrafted and battery-free, are more sustainable and driven by human energy. They epitomize watch horology in its purest form. We see a larger trend towards premium, luxury watches featuring key functions such as power reserve, tourbillon, minute repeater, and perpetual calendar.
Finally, what advice would you give to young designers aspiring to work in the watch and wearable industry?
Chauhan: Watches hold a special place as one of the oldest and most personal fashion accessories. They’re not just about telling time; they become a part of us, expressing our identity and personality. Not many products effortlessly combine practicality with style like watches do. The watch industry values craftsmanship and the art of making watches, all while embracing new technologies. It’s a lively and ever-evolving field with a promising future, especially for young designers who have exciting opportunities ahead.
