Saturday, December 26, 2009

Pantaloons Femina Miss India South 2010

The much awaited grand finale of the prestigious beauty pageant Pantaloons Femina Miss India South
has been announced amidst a glittering star-studded ceremony at the Hyderabad International Convention Centre. The panel of judges comprising former Miss World Diana Hayden, actors Jagapathi Babu, Hansika Motwani and Ileana, cricketer Mithali Raj, designer Rehane Yavar Dhala and Head of NIFT , Hyderabad, Malini D selected winner and two runners-up from among 11 stunning beauties who made it to the finale.

Nicole Faria from Bangalore was crowned the winner of the PFMI South 2010. Krithika Babu from Bangalore and Pooja Hegde from Mangalore were crowned the first and second runners-up respectively. The winner enters directly into the top 10 of Pantaloons Femina Miss India 2010

The winners were crowned by Zara Shah, PFMIS '09 second runner-up, Ragini Dwivedi, PFMIS ‘09 first runner-up and Faith Pandey, Pantaloons Femina Miss India South ‘09. All three beauties were dressed in stunning evening gowns by Shravan Kumar.

The gala evening started with the contestants walking the ramp in spectacular creations by Pantaloons.
Rehane presented the second round with her utterly feminine collection Grushenker, Spring /Summer 2010 . Shravan Kumar presented an extraordinary collection for the third round, called the Ingebore Exotica which had a series of traditional Indian sarees, with a flavour of exotic wildness.
Southern stars Vedhika, Meeranandan, Poonam Kaur, Poonam Bajwa, Kamna Jethmalani, Nikita and Bindu Madhavi presented breathtaking performances during the event. Zahid Shaikh Head Marketing, Pantaloons said, “PFMIS is a unique pageant that scouts for beauty and talent in South and Pantaloons with its significant presence across South India is proud to be associated for the last three years with the pageant.”

Wednesday, December 23, 2009

New Sarees- Fantasies Or Truth?


Can you tell me what these models are wearing? You can very well recognize the blouse and the dupatta like cloth. However, I know that you can not make out what's the bottom? You will be amazed when I tell you that it is a saree- a pyjama saree to be precise! Fashion designer Anamika Khanna presented this off beat saree in the Lakme Fashion Week. She designed this saree for the young women of India who find it very difficult to manage the free flowing saree yet want to wear them. And if you are thinking that Anamika is the only designer who could think creatively then you are wrong! Many more fashion designers have come up with novel ideas to make saree hip and happening. They have modified the saree to give more comfort and trendy look to the women who love to wear sarees. And the most important thing is that they have done it without changing the basic spirit of sari. You must be thinking- how is this possible? If so, read about all the new saree designs for today's contemporary women- a gift from the talented brigade of our own Indian fashion designers. Read Latest Saree Fashion Trends- New Off Beat Sarees

Monday, November 30, 2009

Anarkali Churidar Suits- Latest Designs



Anarkali Churidar Kurta with Full Flair




Bridal Anarkali Churidar Suit



Elegant Party Wear Anarkali Salwar Kameez




Anarkali Churidar Design with Modern Touch




Sleeveless Anarkali Churidar Kurta


Wednesday, November 25, 2009

Do Fashion Magazines Influence Women of India?

Howsoever popular the digital media becomes, print media has proved time and again that it will not die. However, all the publications including books, journals and magazines have to change with times and with the choices of target readers. Fashion magazines are no exceptions. In India too!

Initial Role of Women's Magazines in India

For a long time, women of India had remained in the backgrounds. With time, they too realized their potential and took charge of their own lives. They started deciding about their likes and dislikes, important life decisions like marriage, work, children etc. Some of the credit for empowering women in India goes to the women's magazines too that incorporated topics on work and career along with the  stereotypical subjects such as beauty, fashion, relationships, and entertainment. Most importantly, these magazines that gradually came to be known as lifestyle magazines started focusing on the issue of work life balance and the tough decisions regarding whether to quit working to raise a family?

How Fashion Magazines Influence Women's life?

Woman has always been associated with beauty. In spite of her physical disadvantage, she has shown her courage and strength at every front of her life- be it family, work, children, parents or society. However, in taking care of all the important aspects of her life, she sometimes forgets to take care of herself. Those who realize this and found themselves in a state where they can not identify their own self, seek to find the means to establish their own identity. They long for making their presence felt. In this process, they need to know what is gong on around them. They take help of magazines to know the present society- the trends of not only fashion, clothing and style but how women are making their own ways in the society.

Present Day Fashion Magazines

The fashion magazines, in their new avatar, not only contain beauty tips, fashion trends and glossy photographs of film actresses and models but they also tell how women can look and feel good in spite of being busy. Not only looks, they also tell how women can remain healthy as true beauty comes from within. These fashion magazines, particularly those published in India, focus on such natural ways as Yoga, Ayurvedic and Home Remedies for beauty treatments, health tips etc. to make Indian women truly fit and well. As far as fashion and style is concerned, they not only cover what's going on in society and what the fashion designers are doing but sometimes set the trends themselves.

How Far Should Women Let Magazines Influence Their Lives?

Getting ideas for an outfit or for decoration from a magazine is all right as is taking tips on hairstyle, fashion trends etc. but getting influenced by every word in the same way as is written might prove detrimental. Magazines are for taking ideas and not as a support for deciding almost every aspect of one's life. There is no harm in buying fashion magazines but don't let it be your guide to life. Read and understand articles. Follow what you think is right. There is no need to be its blind follower. See the photographs and cloth designs. If you want to get them made- get them but after adapting according to your body types and your personal needs. This way, magazine can be your friends. Use them judiciously!

Know about the Top Indian Fashion Magazines

Friday, November 20, 2009

Katrina Barbie Doll Enters India



The most popular international doll Barbie, who has been given the likeness of Bollywood actress Katrina Kaiff to mark her 50th year, has arrived India and will be unveiled next month in December 2009. The above picture shows Katrina in the small pink dress designed by Nishka, the daughter of one of the top fashion designers of India, Neeta Lulla. Katrina walked the ramp in this outfit as the show stopper for the "All Doll'd Up" special fashion show dedicated to Barbie at the Lakme Fashion Week in Mumbai earlier this year. The doll 'Katrina Barbie' will be wearing the same design.

Thursday, November 19, 2009

Aloe Vera Sarees- Handloom Sarees with a Difference!

You might have heard about aloe vera gel for skin care or aloe vera extract for health care but you would have never heard of sarees made of aloe vera! After being used for giving magical glow to  Cleopatra's skin and medical wellness to Alexander ages ago, Aloe Vera has landed right into the wardrobes of Indian women in the form of sarees!

Weavers in Anakaputhur suburb of Tamil Nadu are experimenting with aloe vera fibers to make colorful sarees. Till now, these weavers were making handloom sarees from traditional natural fibers like cotton and silk. However, with the increasing prices of yarn, they started finding other options for making their sarees. First they used banana fibre, and now they have started using fibre from the Aloe Vera plant. “Sarees made from Aloe Vera fibre are in demand. Weavers today are earning well,” as told by Sekar, the President of the Anakaputhur Jute Weavers Association.  What more? These are very cheap saris as compared to the traditional handloom sarees. They can be bought in as low a price as 700 rupees though in Tamil Nadu only. Hopefully, these sarees will soon be available in other parts of India and world too!

Aloe Vera Textile in Other Parts of the World

In the western countries like Germany and Spain, Aloe Vera enriched clothing is in the initial stages of development. It has been claimed that aloe vera in garments prevent aging of the skin; rejuvenate skin cells: and keep skin free from microbial infections. Dermatology tests related to the textile applications of these fibers were conducted by a research university in Germany. Presently, these garments are manufactured in Barcelona, Spain. It is mainly used for manufacturing inner garments, stockings etc. due to the claimed additional functions like absorbing bad smell, and providing anti-bacterial features. Looking at the initial stages of development of garments from aloe vera, the achievement of Tamil Nadu weavers is really commendable as they are making full fledged embellished sarees with Aloe Vera!

Tuesday, November 17, 2009

Indian Fashion Photo Gallery

Fashion is always a pleasure to eyes! We dress up and do make-up for looking good. Everyone has a different reason to do so- some might feel well by looking well. Some others may remain charged up when others look at them. Whatever be the reason, the fact is that everyone love to watch a well dressed up personality! Photos are therefore very important- they not only give us something good to look at but also guide us on how to look good? Fashion shows can not be watched live by everyone. It is not possible to see all kinds of sarees, lehenga cholis or salwar kameez in each and every shop before buying them neither is it feasible to know about the bridal wear trends and other fashion trends without looking at the real pictures. The images are only support to know about the latest fashion trends. If not for any purpose, fashion photos are still good source of entertainment- who doesn't like the bright and dull, dark and light, all kinds of fashion clothing, jewelery, make up and pleasant faces of models and Bollywoood actresses? Come, lets watch the fabulous Fashion Clothing Photo Gallery and make our day pleasant!

Sunday, November 15, 2009

Saree Blouse Desings


String Back Choli



Crossed Embellished String Back Blouse



String Back Designer Blouse


Backless Choli Style Blouse

 
Off Shoulder Designer Blouse



Halter Neck Blouse

 
Backless Blouse

Watch and read more about Latest Saree Blouse Designs

Wednesday, November 11, 2009

What Skirts Should Plus Size Women Wear?


Plus size women, especially Indian women, think that western wear skirts are not for them- skirts and shirts or tops give them an ugly look. In fact, this is one of the myths of Indian fashion clothing prevalent among the Indian women. If bought with a little care and worn properly with appropriate ladies tops and fashion accessories, skirts give an awesome look to the plus size women too. Here are some tips on skirt styles that can be worn by the over size women.

A-line Skirts- Perfect for any figure including plus size. The narrow shape at the top and a little flare at the bottom of these skirts cover the bottom heavy part of plus size ladies. They give a slimming effect to wearer. So, buy an A-line skirt without worrying about any other thing.

Pencil Skirts- Although some people say that pencil skirts are not for plus size women, these skirts give a flattering sleek and slim look to heavy figures. The reason is the narrow silhouette towards bottom of the pencil skirts.

Long Skirts- Tall and over sized women can wear long skirts that almost reach the ground. Most of the  Indian skirts are long, so there are many options for Indian as well as other women to choose from. However, if a plus size woman is also a shorter woman than long skirts can give them an awkward look.

Short Skirts- Short here doesn't mean mini skirts. Skirts that are only an inch above the knees can balance the upper and lower body of shorter plus size women. Tall women can try a skirt that stops just below the knees which can make them look taller and more slender.

Trumpet Skirts- The nice drape of trumpet skirts bring out the curves of plus size women very nicely. These can be tried by short as well as taller women.

Denim Skirts- A straight skirt made of denim can look good on over sized women provided it is form fitting at the hips and continues straight down from the hips. It gives a more proportionate look without adding any extra bulk. It especially suits tall plus size women. Small and petite figure plus size women should wear knee length denim skirt.

Some Tips on Tops for Plus Size Women

Plus size women should wear a top that is at least long enough to reach the mid line of their navels. Layered looks are good, as long as the lines are smooth at front and back. A v-neck can be very good for a plus-size woman as it lengthens the neck line and draws the eye down. However, the neckline should not be deep if the cleavage seems to be overflowing. It can look good on a plus-size woman with an average bust. Limit the low cut depending upon your cleavage and bust. Indian ladies Kurtis are specially good for plus size women. Most of these Indian ladies kurtis have just the right length to cover the body flaws and for bringing out the curves in the right manner.

Know more about Indian Skirts and Shirts.

Tuesday, November 10, 2009

How to Care For a Silk Bridal Lehenga?


Many of you will get married in this wedding season and I know it for sure that most of you will fall for a Silk Bridal Lehenga. After all, these soft and sensuous lehengas are hot favorite among the Indian brides. However, silk is also a very delicate fabric and an expensive one too! So, you will never want your high cost bridal lehnga to get spoiled in a short period of time. A little care will let you wear this bridal lehenga at your silver jubilee wedding anniversary too! Just a little care and proper handling- that's all for the long life of your wedding memories. Read on these tips on taking care of silk lehengas and then buy one for your big day.

Tips on Caring for Your Silk Lehengas

These tips are not only for silk bridal lehengas but for other silk clothing too.
  • Most probably, you will not need to wear your bridal lehenga just after your marriage but it's better to get it cleaned before you store them in the cupboard. First wash should be dry cleaning- yes a little expense for very expensive bridal wear.
  • In the years to come, when you will wear your silk bridal lehnga, you will not be able to dry clean it after every instance. So, wash it with mild detergent having a pH below 7- those which you use for your woolens.
  • Never twist or wring out this delicate fabric. Hand wash, preferably in a sink by gently swirling the cloth.
  • Press water gently and hang dry.
  • When ironing, set the iron on the lowest heat (silk setting or rayon setting where silk is not indicated).
  • Place a piece of light fabric on the ironing surface and then place the silk lehenga right side down on top of the fabric. It will absorb the excess heat from the iron.
  • Before you start ironing, test a small, out of sight area of your silk lehenga to make sure that the heat will not damage the fabric. Set the iron's heat at further low point if you see any harm being done to the silk fabric.
  • Let the silk cool when you finish ironing.
  • Store the lehenga separately in the cupboard wrapped in a soft cloth like muslin cloth.
  • Ensure that the cupboard is moth free.
Now when you know the tricks of saving your silk lehenga, go ahead and buy one but before buying just read Why Silk Bridal Lehengas are Liked by All, not only to know the reasons of their popularity but also to know what harms can be done by silk lehengas and how to choose the right silk bridal lehenga for you.

Saturday, November 7, 2009

Salwar Kameez- Reasons Behind its Traditional Modernity



Salwar Kameez, in whatever form, is perhaps the most popular woman wear in India today. It is simple, neat, trendy, classy, cool, smart- all at the same time. That's why it seems to be so popular among the young Indian women- in colleges, offices, parties- everywhere you can see these women donned in some or the other beautiful creation of salwar suits.

What makes salwar kameez so popular?.....May be the reason is the comfort and ease of wearing it. It is comfortable in all seasons and at all places. You just need to choose the fabric with care and to change the salwar suit designs a little and it becomes apt for any place and occasion. Women who feel a little uncomfortable in revealing dresses like skirts etc. (it is not a generalized belief, such dresses are revealing in their view), they also can remain trendy by wearing a designer salwar kameez. The salwars give women the freedom of movement- especially to those women who find jeans and trousers a little tight and uncomfortable. By just shortening or lengthening the kurtas one can get different looks. Moreover, a dupatta carried with salwar kameez lends further grace to the overall personality of the wearer. What more! One can even mix and match- take a kurta and match it with neutral color salwars or swap the kurta to be worn sometimes with salwar and at other times with churidar. In short, there is a lots of scope for experimenting with salwar kameez.

Know more about this traditional as well as modern attire of Indian women- Salwar Kameez!

Thursday, November 5, 2009

How Fashion Videos Make You More Stylish?

A single picture is equivalent to a thousand words! And just imagine how effective will be the moving pictures then? I need not emphasize the efficiency of active media. We all know that videos are very effective in communicating a message in its right spirit. Hollywood and Bollywood as well as the television industry – all are well aware of this fact and are making the best use of videos. Everyday you see hundreds of videos as advertisements on TV, cinema and even on Internet. Then why not make use of this very effective media- the videos, particularly fashion videos – to lend you some style and oomph!

Fashion Videos- What are They and How to Use Them?

There are many categories of fashion videos

Event Videos- These are the videos of fashion shows and other fashion events. For example, video of Lakme Fashion Week or Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week etc. You can always keep track of such videos that are out within two or three days of the event. These shows usually showcase the fashion  trends for the coming season. As such, you have ample time to watch these videos and get your clothes stitched according to the latest designs and trends.

Video Tutorials- These videos teach you some or the other trick. For example, there can be videos on learning basic skills like how to wear sarees, how to sew salwar kameez, or how to do make up for a party etc. If you are a novice, say, in wearing a saree, you will definitely learn the skill faster than when you try to do it on your own. After all, step-by-step instructions with live videos can make you understand the whole process more easily.

Videos for New Fashion Concepts- There are creative minds in fashion industries too. In fact, fashion professionals are more creative than any other professionals as imagination is what spices up one's personality. So, everyday one or the other things are invented like new ways of wrapping sarees, new style of wearing a bridal lehnga choli, or invention of waterproof salwar kameez! You can always use the ideas that are useful for you. For example, if you have to go to a friend's wedding on a short notice and you are not able to custom made your lehenga choli, you will always learn to wrap a saree in ghagra style or in other novel ways like mermaid style etc. by watching a video that teaches to drape saree in novel ways.

Fashion Analytics Video- These videos take forward some fashion issues or clarify some misconceptions about fashion styles. For example, I watched a video that clarified that Indian sarees can always be worn by foreign nationals who think that saree doesn't look good on their body types. The video also contained some fabulous photographs of American women in sarees- they actually looked stunning in saree! In this way the video helped in spreading the message that saree can look good on any woman of any country!

So, go ahead and use the fashion videos for making yourself some more trendy and fashionable! To start with, watch some of these Indian Women Clothing- Fashion Videos

Friday, October 30, 2009

The Royal Ethnic Wear- Indian Lehengas


Lehenga choli is indeed a royal clothing which is equally adored by women of all regions of India. Sometimes I think, who first thought about this very fine and graceful clothing? Perhaps it was an invention out of necessity. May be women found wearing sarees a little uncomfortable while doing all their household chores! But then, there are many states in India where, even today, women wear sarees and conduct their daily routine with ease! Then it might have been for the beautiful drape that the lehenga gives after wearing. Also the dupatta taken in various styles on lehenga further enhances its beauty. Or it could have been for saving the length of cloth needed for saree. After all the choli of lehenga and blouse of saree plus lehenga itself and the petticoat of saree resemble with each other so much! If the dupatta is there to be taken as pallu, what's the need of all that length for making pleats?But then lehnga choli was originally worn by the royal women of Mughals! They definitely did not need to save money on cloth!

Whatever be the reason of making and wearing the ghagra cholis, the fact is that they look fabulous so much so that bridal lehengas are giving competition to bridal sarees in the states where saree is traditionally worn as wedding dress. Lets read more about Lehengas and try to solve the mystery of this ethnic wear of India!

Wednesday, October 28, 2009

What Fashion Mistakes Should Women Avoid?


You must be wondering why some women look gorgeous in whatever they wear or whatever they do while some others look horrible even after spending many hours doing make up! The simple reason is the mistakes- the fashion mistakes- they make. Here is a list of such mistakes that can be avoided to look good all the time.

Too Many Fashion Accessories!

Fashion accessories do look good on women. They enhance the charm of your clothing and make you more attractive but you don't need to be an “accessories advertisement”- by wearing all you have! When wearing bracelet, don't wear bangles and when wearing a jewelery set with matching necklace and earring, take off the regular gold chain you wear all the time. Don't wear hair clips, hair clutches, hair bands- all at once. One of them is good enough to flaunt your beautiful hair. And yes, two rings in two hands is all right- three will also do but a ring in all ten fingers? Think twice before wearing them!

Heavy Make-up All the Time!

You are ready for going to office with all these make up on your face- there's matching lipstick and bindi, rouge, blush, shimmer and mascara- isn't that too much for office going. Keep it simple- an eyeliner or kajal and some lipstick is enough to give you a decent look. Reserve your bright lip colours, blush, shimmer, and eye-liner for weddings, birthdays and other festive occasions.

Jewelery Exhibition!

Do you got that nick name from your friends? Beware then! One or two bangles or bangles in one hand and watch in the other is pretty good for going to office or market. A light stud earring or dangle earring is also fine. Don't be tempted to wear those heavy jewelery sets at these places. Do not mis match too- an ethnic earring with gold bangles and diamond ring can give a very messed up appearance. Minimum jewelery will not only keep you comfortable but also make you more beautiful. Wear those heavy jewelery on weddings- that's the perfect occasion for them.

Color Mismatch!

Do you keep some black, white, off white, and such neutral colored blouses and petticoats to wear with your sarees? And then also you think why people never appreciate your 'so good sarees'? Perhaps you don't know how matching saree accessories bring out the personality with the beauty of clothing. Get some Tips on Wearing Fashion Accessories With Saree. Further don't try to match white and black dupattas with light and dark colored salwar kameez respectively. They will definitely 'mar the beauty of your fabulous dresses' .

Monday, October 26, 2009

Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week Opens


The 14th edition of Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week opened in New Delhi on Sunday 25th October, 2009. This four-day extravaganza will last up to October 28. In this one of the two biggest fashion trade events, organized by Fashion Design Council of India, 175 buyers from within the country and outside have been invited. The event will have 110 stalls of designers with 66 designers showcasing on the ramp for added participation.

On the first day of Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week, Designers Ashish Soni showcased his Spring Summer ‘10 Collection, which had the top of the line models sashaying down the ramp in mainly black colored western outfits. Bollywood actress Neha Dhupia displayed a creation of designer Kaviat Bhatia at the show on Sunday, Oct. 25, 2009. The first day of the Fashion Week displayed an impressive array of collections incorporating influences from Europe to traditional India.

The fashion show will witness many debutant designers including Wendell Rodricks and Narendra Kumar apart from welcoming back the top fashion designers like Ritu Beri, Tarun Tahiliani and Rohit Bal.

The Prospective Collections at the Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week

New as well as established fashion designers have interesting collections to display at the fashion week.
Rodricks has an interesting line-up of clothing for modern women of all shapes and sizes. While he has certain sleeveless yet conservative tunics and tops, some of his outfits has thigh-high cuts and broad cuts on the sides, which not many women would dare to wear.

Designer Reynu Tandon has her all new collection in threadwork. One of the collection of her Spring Summer’10 wear will also be seen in Paris. Tandon says, “I thought I will make one luxury collection for the Indian market as well as the international market to push boundaries”.

According to Designer Prashant Verma, “Apart from the 80s’ look, there is a trend of clean lines and geometric angular lines globally, that’s supposed to signify new hope”. There is a growing trend of art deco on clothes.

Gauri & Nainika Karan’s show ranged from creamy flesh tones to brilliant jewel hues and a fabric assembly of chiffons, georgette’s and crepes. It had an influence of European fashion history.

Designer Ritu Kumar says, through her recently launched label, ‘Label’, she wishes to satisfy the needs of the younger section of the population, as there is a great demand for fusion ethnic wear among the younger lot.

Sunday, October 25, 2009

How to Match Fashion Accessories with Sarees?

This is a million dollars question you ask at every occasion when ready to wear a saree! Do you imagine yourself asking your mother, sister, friends- anybody who is in front of you- will this bag go with my saree? Does this earring match the color of this saree? What sandal to wear? What should be my blouse design? And a whole lot of such other questions. Hold on ladies! Here is some help to all the fashion conscious women who don't understand what accessories to wear with their sarees? Saree looks graceful only when you drape it in the right manner and accompany it with right fashion accessories- the bindi, sandals, jewelery, handbags and even blouse and petticoat. Read the Tips on Wearing Fashion Accessories With Saree and look gorgeous everyday- in office, parties, festivals- everywhere!

Friday, October 23, 2009

Indian Sarees- The Magic of 6 Yards Cloth!

Do you ever wonder why just a 6 yards long piece of cloth- the saree- looks so beautiful? However simple a sraee you take- the woman wearing it looks fabulous! After all, what is this saree? Just imagine when you wear your cotton handloom saree for office- how decent and graceful you look in the mirror! And just remember that night of Diwali when you wore a pretty kanjeevaram saree. Were you not so different from your appearance with a cotton saree? Now you know why the women of East India look different from women of South India! Of course, they have different physical characteristics but a person who can't notice these differences will also judge their right place of origin by seeing the saree they wear. This is the magic of different types of sarees! There are more interesting facts about saree- the innovations, the traditions, exclusive fashion designers of saree....

Read all this and much more about Indian Sarees!

Tuesday, October 20, 2009

What's There in Store for New-age Brides


The Bridal Asia 2009 that was held in Delhi from September 19-21, gave a glimpse of the new-age bride who now is so different from her past version. Different sides of contemporary bride was showcased here which proved that new bride doesn't shy away from experimenting with unusual colors and fabrics on her wedding day.

Comfort- The Buzz Word


Being comfortable is at the top priority for today's bride. However, that doesn't mean that she is ready to compromise with the grandeur of her bridal wear. Rina Dhaka creation in traditional crimson silk with fine embroidery ensures that the bride doesn’t stoop under her ‘lehanga’s’ weight. Dhaka also showcased chiffon ‘sarees’ in saffron and turquoise that is comfortable as well as eye-catching.

Tradition Combined with Modernity


If Indian women has not left the age old tradition of wedding, how can she not reflect it in her wedding lehenga choli? But she is modern too and wants the world to know that. Keeping with this spirit of Indian bride, Pallavi Jaikishan showcased embroidered lehnga choli but with unusual embroideries on traditional fabrics. Gaurav Gupta showcased a dress that is a cross-over between a traditional 'lehanga' and a western dress. Ritu Beri displayed fishtail lehnga in black-and-gold kanjeevaram fabrics with leopard-print panels- a real unusual pairing!

Unusual Colors


Indian Bride has been associated with red color since ages but now it has to be changed! Although red color was present in the show, the unusual colors too made their presence felt in a grand way. Sabyasachi Mukherjee’s bridal collection revolved around unusual black- till now a 'no no' color for any Indian Bride! Gaurav Gupta represented the unexplored boldness of modern age bride by introducing light-colored (silvery off white) bridal wear.

See the Slideshow-Bridal Asia 2009

Thursday, October 15, 2009

Be Safe with Your Clothing on Diwali

We celebrate Diwali with lights. Everywhere there are Diwali diyas and candles. All of us are happy on Diwali and this happiness should reflect in our memories too. No untoward incident should occur on Diwali. If we remain careful with our clothings, we can avoid almost half of the accidents reported next day of Diwali. Festival sarees and other clothes like lehngas are a bit loser for such occasion when everywhere there is fire and firecrackers. However, these traditional dresses have to be worn, we can not afford to wear fabulous apparel on this biggest festival of India. Here are certain tips to be careful with your clothing on Diwali.
  • Try to wear saree in a way that its pallu does not flair too much. Lose clothing have all the chances to catch fire easily. Learn how to wear saree in different ways and choose the one that suits the occasion. You can even innovate novel ways of keeping pallu tight and secured while wearing saree and give birth to a new fashion!
  • Heavy banarasi, kanjivaram or silk sarees are apt for the occasion. However, try to change your saree and wear cotton saree or cotton salwar suit when enjoying fire crackers.
  • Always try to light your diyas at Pooja place at a safe distance. And don't forget to secure saree pallu or dupatta of your lehnga choli while participating in puja.
  • If wearing a salwar suit, secure your dupatta in different ways while bursting fireworks or doing puja.
  • If you are wearing skirt with tops or jeans and short kurta, never put fireworks in your pocket. It is dangerous.
  • If your little daughter or other kids at home or neighborhood wear festival ghagra choli or salwar suit, ask them to leave the dupatta when they burst firecrackers.

We celebrate Diwali with lights. Everywhere there are Diwali diyas and candles. All of us are happy on Diwali and this happiness should reflect in our memories too. No untoward incident should occur on Diwali. If we remain careful with our clothings, we can avoid almost half of the accidents reported next day of Diwali. Festival sarees http://www.indianwomenclothing.com/indian-sarees/indian-festival-sarees.html and other clothes like lehngas are a bit loser for such occasion when everywhere there is fire and firecrackers. However, these traditional dresses have to be worn, we can not afford to wear fabulous apparel on this biggest festival of India. Here are certain tips to be careful with your clothing on Diwali.


  • Try to wear saree in a way that its pallu does not flair too much. Lose clothing have all the chances to catch fire easily. Learn how to wear saree in different ways and choose the one that suits the occasion. You can even innovate novel ways of keeping pallu tight and secured while wearing saree and give birth to a new fashion!

  • Heavy banarasi, kanjivaram or silk sarees are apt for the occasion. However, try to change your saree and wear cotton saree or cotton salwar suit when enjoying fire crackers.

  • Always try to light your diyas at Pooja place at a safe distance. And don't forget to secure saree pallu or dupatta of your lehnga choli while participating in puja.

  • If wearing a salwar suit, secure your dupatta in different ways while bursting fireworks or doing puja.

  • If you are wearing skirt with tops or jeans and short kurta, never put fireworks in your pocket. It is dangerous.

  • If your little daughter or other kids at home or neighborhood wear festival ghagra choli http://www.indianwomenclothing.com/lehengas/festival-wear-ghagra-choli.html or salwar suit, ask them to leave the dupatta when they burst firecrackers.

Diwali Gift Hampers of Indian Clothing

Diwali is a time of lights and happiness everywhere. There's a tradition of giving Diwali gifts to all family members and friends. Traditionally, clothes were given to all on this occasion. Gradually, the tastes of people changed and they started giving many other gifts to their loved ones like handicrafts, artistic furniture, home furnishings etc. However, clothing has never become outdated. Special festival sarees, lehngas and salwar suits still remain one of the favorites as Diwali gifts. In fact, the manufacturers nowadays sell gift hampers of clothes like sarees with matching blouse and jewelery plus Diwali special items like Lakshmi Ganesha silver coins, Diwali diyas, Diwali sweets etc. Look at some of such gift hampers and buy Diwali Gifts online. Read Buy Fabulous Dresses for Her Diwali Gift and click on the image to buy that specific Diwali Clothing as a gift for someone special.

Thursday, October 8, 2009

Does Saree look Good on All Women?

Saree is a sexy outfit. Do you know someone who opposes this statement? It is said that the body of an average Indian woman is most suitable for wearing a saree. However, there are two views- for and against- regarding the question raised through this write up. Before drawing any conclusion on whether all women look good in saree, we must know what the supporters and those who oppose, have to say.


No! Some Women Don't Look Good in Saree

There are many people out there who think that saree is not fit for all body types. It only suits curvaceous women. Those who have a square body type with long and straight torsos or those who are overweight, do not look good in saree. As far as western and even other Indian dresses are concerned, they can be made in such a way that enhances one's figure by hiding the body flaws. But this can not be done with a saree. Also, saree's silhouette is very limiting as is its length. It can not be modified to emphasize or hide body flaws. For them, saree is like a uniform with same length, drape and silhouette.

Yes! Saree is for All Women

Those who support saree as a universal clothing for Indian women say- nothing is hotter than a saree. Women, especially, the celebrities who, nowadays, mostly wear gowns or other western outfits at public events think that a size zero figure can not be flaunted in saree. Others who hesitate from wearing a saree mostly include those who are overweight or who do not find it comfortable as their daily wear. However, it all depends upon the proper selection of sarees according to one's body type and the way a saree is draped. That is also the case with other clothings- be it Indian or western. How else can we explain the growing supply of plus size clothing that are made to accentuate the figure of larger women? A saree can also be worn in ways that can enhance or hide the flaws of one's body. With the innovations in the field of blouses -backless, halter, tube, full-sleeves, V-neck- sarees can also be made to look good on women of any body type. As far as uniformity of saree is concerned, no one has stopped from experimenting with saree. Innovations in fashion industry like 'chhotu sarees' designed by Sabyasachi Mukherjee is the answer to it and also to those who don't wear saree due to its being uncomfortable for its length.

The Conclusion


After going through the views- for and against- it seems that saree too is like any other outfit that can accentuate or kill the personality of the wearer. If chosen and worn carefully along with the right accessories, saree can look good on all women. To know how you can do this, read What Saree to Wear For Your Body Type?

Tuesday, October 6, 2009

Indian Sharara- Is it Different from Lehnga?

There are many Indian ethnic clothing. Sharara is one of them. It is basically a Muslim wear and are worn by Muslim brides on the occasion of their weddings. However, due to the much appreciated adaptability of Indian culture, sharara has been whole heartedly accepted by the Indian woman. It gives that graceful charming appearance to all women, much like a lehenga choli. One can very easily mistake it for a ghagra or lehnga but there is a difference between lehnga and sharara. To know this difference and more about various types of this ethnic clothing, read Sharara

Monday, October 5, 2009

'Gandhi chic' Fashion Show Held to Promote Handwoven Clothing

A fashion show- 'Gandhi chic' – was organized at Kolkata to attract todays youth towards the handwoven fabric 'khadi' promoted by the father of the Nation. The show was held on 2nd October to commemorate the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. The show displayed a range of homespun sarees of east India along with other apparels. The "homespun" fabrics were championed by Mahatma Gandhi in the 1930s during his struggle against British rule as a way of boosting the rural economy and showing pride in products produced in India.


"The show reflects a new trend. Indian youths are taking it as new fashion," said Tajas Gandhi, a well-known local designer who is not related to the Mahatma. On the other hand, Mamabendra Mukherjee, West Bengal small cottage industries minister said, "The government is promoting 'Gandhi chic' to rejuvenate the hand-woven cotton and silk industry in the state, where unemployment is growing."

Thousands of people could be seen at the venue who came to watch the show. The unique fashion show featured well-known film stars and actors from film industry. Locket Chatterjee, one of West Bengal's best-known film actresses also did catwalk wearing red-bordered white cotton sari.

Demand for hand-woven fabrics has suffered over the last few decades after synthetics became popular in the market. However, Bengali designers say new styles and bright shades are increasingly attracting young people. This can also be seen in internationally famed fashion designers' works such as those of Sabyasachi Mukherjee who has started the mission of popularizing traditional Indian hand made sarees and other clothing. He also introduced chhotu saree, (which is worn till ankles) keeping in view the comfort for today's woman.

Sunday, October 4, 2009

Top Fashion Designers for Indian Women Clothing

India is a happening place! In the world fashion arena too! Our fashion designers have won accolades from world over. Not only do they make the popular images of bollywood queens but also design clothes for famous international personalities. Look (the above image) How Naomi Campbell looks stunning in a saree designed by Sabyasachi Mukherjee! However, all the fashion designers excel in some or the other areas. Some prefer to design western wear and other explore the Indian traditional clothing. There are many who innovate- create new clothing by fusing Indian and western styles. Who are these fashion designers? Know about such Top 5 Fashion Designers for Indian Women Clothing

Saturday, October 3, 2009

Latest Fashion Sarees for Diwali

Diwali is not very far away. And what's more traditional festival wear on so so traditional festival than a saree. And these days sarees do not need to be heavy and cumbersome affair. Go for breathtaking Indian festival sarees and see how you glow among all those candles of eepawali. Here's and account of what's hot among latest saree designs.


Designer Saree: The latest designer saree favors a comibination of print, sequins and thread work embroidery all over. If you get a saree with contrasting patchwork on borders, nothing will match that. Go for a blouse taht matches with saree print. Match it with jewelery that enhances its charm.


Zari Saree: They will never go out, I tell you. Glittering Diwali matched with a glittering saree with zari work. Prints are in so go for one that has golden print, zardosi, sequence and beads work. Border with brocade fabric will add to the charm of beautiful zari embroidered sari.
Sequin Embroidered Saree: Printed saree with large floral motif embroidered on heavy pallu in non traditional colors like brown combined with green will look great. Sequin work on borders will add to the cham. Don't forget to get sequin work on blouse.



Chikan Embroidered Saree: If you want a simple yet killer look then go for a plain saree with chikan embroidery work. The hand embroidered pieces are great for party wear. Go for bright colors if wearing for night diwali celebration and pastels if wearing for the Diwali puja. Keep the blouse simple yet trendy. Go for designer necks and backs but avoid sequins or any other heavy works on blouse to bring out the magic of Lucknow's chikan saree!

Readymade Saree: And if you, anyway, plan for firecrackers, then go for a readymade saree or pre-stitched saris. This will be trendy yet safe! You will save a lot of time as well as look gorgeous in the nicely pre sewn saree. You can even go for black color complete with glittering silver seqins to match the spirit of Diwali!

Wednesday, September 30, 2009

Indian Women & Embroidery Touch New Global Heights

Indian Fashion, particularly said, traditional Indian fashion has touched new international heights. Karnataka's kasuti (embroidery), which is used to embellish the Kanjeevaram Sarees and Mysore Silk Sarees, will now be seen on western outfits in the boutiques of Amsterdam and London. Not only India's cherished craft of embroidery has gone global but our women- the rural women of India too have gone global with the help of their art. These western clothing with Indian touch will be designed and tailored by women of Hubli, Karnatake, India.


Maharashtra-based NGO Mann Deshi Foundation (MDF) has joined hands with Holland-based NGO Satara Foundation to popularize the traditional form of embroidery. Not only the foundation conducts training in tailoring and kasuti but it also trains the poor women in making hand-embroidered folders, pouches, saris, jeans, tops and newborn baby suits. Although, the main aim is to empower women, it is taking Indian fashion to the international levels through new roads. This will help the women of low income group in earning a steady income by creating international market for their products.

The Dutch volunteers from the prestigious Amsterdam Fashion Institute are training 15 women on the intricacies of western outfits. These women were earlier trained in tailoring by MDF who plans to set up a production unit in Hubli. The NGO will then export the designer clothing to the Netherlands and London. They will be marketed with the help of NGOs and fashion institutes. Now, this is called fashion with social cause!

Tuesday, September 29, 2009

Different Drapes of Saree

Saree- the most favorite clothing of Indian women is the most elegant one too. A woman looks attractive and beautiful in a saree. No matter whether a sari is draped in the traditional way or in some regional style, it definitely will lend its unique charm. However, if draped in the wrong way, it can play havoc on one's personality. Those who use saree as their daily wear find it very easy to drape it the right way but the ones who wear saree occasionally have to put in much effort. The style of sari draping depends on one's region or the latest trends. Sometimes it is festivals that dictate the style of saree wearing. For example, one likes to wear a saree in Maharashtrian style during Ganeshotsava while in Bengali or Gujarati style during Navarartri. Learn through step-by-step instructions about how to drape saree in different ways

Thursday, September 17, 2009

Red Saree- The Choice of Indian Brides

Red has always remained the symbol of Indian wedding - the color of bridal sarees! Most of the brides from all over India wear red on their wedding day.


Tamil Brides like to wear heavy Kanjeevaram Sarees. The uniqueness of saree is matched by the bridal jewelery that is mostly in gold. The combination of red and golden color makes the south Indian bride more beautiful.

Bengali Bride in red richly worked upon handloom saree, so well portrayed by Aishwarya Rai, is no hidden secret. The distinguishing feature of a bengali bride is the white head crown. The white color of this crown, against all over red, makes the face of bengali bride glow with beauty.
However, not all Indian brides wear red but yes there is always a stint of red color in their attire. For example, Gujarati brides wear the combination of red and white as their bridal dress. But the fever of red has caught the Gujarati bride too. More and more of them are now dressing less traditionally and wearing red or blue or gold. The above portrait of Rani Mukherjee shows the elegant golden yellow Gujarati bridal wear with a combination of red shade.

Indian wedding is not confined to the wedding day only. There are many other rituals that go along with it spanning many days before and after the big day. In all the other associated functions, the Indian bride loves to wear red which is considered the color of 'suhagan' or the married woman. The above green saree in silk with rich brocade work embellished with sequins, stones, resham and zardosi features the red pallu in crepe with sequins and resham embroidery work- true delight of any Indian Bride.

There are many regions where saree is not the bridal dress but the bridal lehengas are worn like in Rajasthan. However, as the Indian women can't leave the temptation of wearing a red saree, the Rajasthani bride fulfills her wish by wearing red or maroon bridal sarees. This maroon Georgette saree is heavily designed with sequins, stones, beads, zari and floral motifs on the border to give the new bride a feel of Red Indian Bridal Sarees.