Monday 27 May 2013

Style It Thrice: American Swan Stripe Clutch Bag

I love attending fashion events. Be it a swanky soirée or the simple industry ones. They are a great way to network, meet and discover new people and brands.
A while back I had the privilege to attend the India Fashion Forum (IFF). Apart for getting an opportunity to meet and interact with fashion industry stalwarts, it was also the perfect place to discover new, up and coming brands.
One brand that caught my attention was American Swan.
Inspired by the 'American Dream' philosophy, t
he brand combines classic, iconic American style with quintessential European fashion. 
American Swan is an online global fashion and lifestyle shopping destination that offers a vast selection of products in apparel, footwear, accessories, beauty and home products. One of the fastest growing home grown fashion and lifestyle brand, it aims to provide trendy fashion and lifestyle products at an affordable price. 

While browsing thorough their collection, I instantly fell in love with this envelope shaped stripe clucth bag {Rs.1499/-} and decided to feature it in this week's 'Stye It Thrice' segment.
Like me, if you too are a tad-bit stripe trend shy, this clutch bag is perfect for you. It lets you incorporate the latest trend without actually wearing it.
 Inspired by classic 'Americana' blue and white stripe motif, the clutch bag is a must have accessory piece for those who wish to experiment with the stripe trend.
Thanks to its classic, neutral colour combination, the clutch bag can easily be paired with a number of colours and prints. Performing double duty as a sling bag and clutch, this trendy piece can easily be mixed and matched with just about anything.
Incorporating current trends and classic styles here are my styling suggestions.

Look 1- Chic: Make a chic print-mix statement by adding the stripe clutch bag to a floral jeans and peplum top ensemble. Complete the look with nude pumps, trendy American Swan shades and colourful bangle bracelet.
[
ONLY Floral Jeans, BEBE Peplum Top, ZARA Shoe, AMERICAN SWAN Sunglasses, DANNIJO Bangles.]

Look 2- Boho: Summer is all about happy colours and free-flowing silhouettes. For a trendy boho look, add the stripe clutch bag to a neon tank and ombre high-low maxi skirt colour block look. Thrown on a pair of neon sandals and American Swan oversized shades and you are all ready for a casual date or weekend brunch with the girls.
[
MARKS & SPENCER Maxi Skirt, TIBI Top, AMERICAN SWAN Sunglasses, CLUB MANHATTAN Necklace, ZARA Sandal, Dannijo Bracelet.]

Look 3- ClassyAdd a hint of glam to your classy ensemble by pairing your fave LWD with statement print sandals, gold cuff and dangling earrings. Complete the look with a navy skinny belt and stripe clutch bag and you are all set for your dinner date or a cocktail party.
[MANGO White Dress, ZARA Sandals, EMILIO PUCCI Earrings, GODDIVA Belt, ZADIG & VOLTAIRE BY GAIA Cuff.]

If you are looking for trendy yet affordable fashion, American Swan has it all. You can buy American Swan products on their website as well as on leading e-commerce portals like Flipkart, Jabong, Pepperfry and Myntra. 

I love to hear from you. Share your views, thoughts and suggestions in the comment section.
Till then, tra-la,
Amena!!

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This post is my submission for IFB Project #97: Carry Your Clutch.

Friday 17 May 2013

L'Oréal Paris' L'Or Sunset- The Cannes Collection Featuring Sonam Kapoor & Makeup By Namrata Soni

It is that time of the year when the French Rivera shows off its glittery and starry side. Come 15th May 2013, Cannes literally becomes the Holy Grail of film and fashion thanks to the Festival De Cannes.
Especially the red carpet that transforms into a must-be-seen-on destination for stars from all over the world to flaunt their fashion best.
Along with film and fashion another name that is synonymous with Cannes Film Festival is L'Oréal Paris. This year, L'Oréal Paris celebrates 16 years as the official make-up partner of the Cannes Film Festival.

A few days ago I was one of the five blogger invited to attend the L’Oréal Paris Cannes press conference. The press con was to welcome onboard Ms.Namrata Soni as L’Oréal Paris' official beauty expert as well as announce that Festival De Cannes will be celebrating ‘100 years of Indian Cinema’. 
To celebrate the occasion, L'Oréal Paris has come up with ‘L’Or Sunset,’ a trendsetting makeup collection that pays homage to Bollywood and the beauties of Indian cinema.
In celebration of 100 years of Indian Cinema, Ms. Namrata Soni has created six Bollywood inspired looks. These looks are inspired by various eras of Bollywood.
Actress Sonam Kapoor, brand ambassador for  L'Oréal Paris, who was also present at the press con along with Manashi Guha, Marketing Manager, L'Oréal Paris, announced that she will be wearing two of these looks at the Cannes Film Festival.

The entire L’or Sunset collection was put on display and I had a chance to go through it all. Also, Ms. Soni demonstrated two looks for the audience and provided us with some nifty make-up tricks.

What I really loved about the L'Or Sunset collection is, the vast variety of colours. From bold and bright shades to soft and subtle one the colour pallet is rich with all kinds hues. 
The variants of gold sparkled nail paints, darker than night eyeliner, matte lipsticks in a variety of colours and a stunning eye shadow palette in earthy tones, makes L'Or Sunset collection a perfect pick for the summer season.With a vast range of products and colours to select from, L’Oréal Paris L'Or Sunset collection has something for everyone.

I have been a fan of Sonam Kapoor's fashion since her Aisha days. Personally, I think, in matter of fashion and style, Sonam can never get it wrong. Just like always she did not disappoint.

Dressed in a midi-length Spring-Summer2013 Armani Privé dress she mesmerised the audience again with her fashion forward style and smart answers. 
The dress had a black bodice a old gold and black ombre skirt. She paired the dress with strappy sandals and completed this elegant look with Sunita Kapoor statement earrings.
The entire look was a fine blend of Indian and western elements.

Since I started blogging, I have had a chance to meet a lot of celebrities. While most of them are polite, I have to say hands-down Soman was one of the nicest ones I have met so far. Not only does she have a great sense of style but she has impeccable manners too.
Here's a fact: Sonam Kapoor is one classy lady.

With L'Oréal Paris India's brand ambassador, Sonam Kapoor and official beauty expert, Namrata Soni. I do not do style post, but events are a great way to once in a while pose for a photo-op as well as show-case my personal fashion.[ Top: AND, Jeans: Marks and Spencer, Sandals: Lords, Bangles: Colaba Causeway]

For more photos of this event visit
Fashionopolis Facebook Page.


P.S: One the first and second day {15th & 16th May, 2013} Sonam displayed two of the above looks at the Opening Ceremony and ‘Jeune & Jolie’ premiere at the 2013 Cannes Film Festival.
For more on Sonam's looks, follow L'Oréal Paris India via Facebook & Twitter for all the latest fashion and beauty updates straight from Cannes.

What do you think of L'Oréal Paris L'Or Sunset collection? I can't wait to try it out!
 Are you as excited about it as I am? Share your views with me in the comment section.


Till then, tra-la,

Amena!!

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Monday 13 May 2013

Trend Spotting: STRIPES

When I started to work on this post my brother pointedly stated to me, “I may not know fashion, but stripes for sure is not a new trend!”
 I happen to agree with him. Stripes for sure is not a new trend. In fact, anyone who has lived for over 5 years on this planet has at sometime or another worn it. Yet, here I am writing about it.

 We all know fashion is cyclical. Trends get repeated. Just like every trend that comes back from yesteryears, stripes too makes its appearance this season.
However, unlike the run-of-the-mill horizontal, vertical and diagonal one, the stripe trend of Spring-Summer 2013 is some what different from its predecessor, but no less stylish.

[Images Via : 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8]

From classic nautical and Breton to striking chevron and stylised zebra, Spring-Summer 2013 is officially a season of stripes.
In it’s new avatar, the stripe trend can be a tab bit more challenging to pull off. From broad colourful panels to chevron zigzags, these new stripes really make your nautical dresses look like child's play. 

With some may stripe patterns to choose from, not sure which one is best suited for your body type? Not to worry- here are some tips and tricks on how you can make this season's most striking stripe trend into your very own style statement. 
Rectangle: Tommy Hilfiger Dress, Proenza Schouler PS1 Bag, Jimmy Choo Wedge, Kenneth Jay Lane Necklace, Inglot Lipstick,
Pear: Mango Palazzo Trousers, Michael Kors Top, Cashhimi Clutch, Zara Sandal, ASOS Earrings,

Apple: Marks & Spencer Pants, Splendid Blouse, Cashhimi Tote, Nine West Shoes, Forever New Necklace


While selecting a stripe outfit, keep these three things in mind:

1.The repeat pattern of the stripes: While selecting a stripe piece, one must always consider whether the repeat pattern is uniform or not. A uniform stripe pattern will provide a leaner look compared to the non-uniform stripe pattern. If you have an apple/round body types, strictly stay away from non-uniform stripe pattern.
2.The colour scheme: Be it classic nautical stripes or the colourful rainbow ones, the colour scheme of the stripes should be in accordance with your body type. For people will a rectangle/column body type, multi-colour {horizontal} stripes helps in creating an illusion of curves. For those who aim at looking leaner and/or taller, they should stick to 2, maximum 3 colours scheme stripe pattern.

3.The width of a stripe- whether it is broad, narrow or pin: We often refer to certain stripe pattern as broad or wide or narrow or pin. This is nothing but the dimension aka width of the individual stripe. While people may stress upon the correct type of a stripe orientation-horizontal, vertical and diagonal- for a certain body type, they completely ignore the dimension of it. A wrong sized stripe pattern can be a bigger faux pas than the wrong stripe orientation.
These three factors, along with the stripe orientation-horizontal, vertical and diagonal-play a significant role.
Once you figured out which stripe pattern best complements your body type, this trend could very well become your go-to summer trend.
If you are not comfortable wearing the stripe trend, you can always accessorise with it. Stripe bags and shoes are quite popular and can easily be styled with pretty much everything.
Are you a fan of the stripe trend? How do you like to style your stripe ensemble? Share your views with me in the comment section.


Till then, tra-la,
Amena!! 
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Wednesday 8 May 2013

Styled With Calvin Klein Jeans

For the longest time I have been wanting to do something different on my blog.
That opportunity arrived when I got a chance to 
collaborate with Calvin Klein Jeans for a summer themed post. Not only did I have a great time styling their trendy summer collection but I also managed to showcase something never before seen on Fashionopolis.

The Spring-Summer collection of Calvin Klein Jeans offers everything from the the hottest trends of 2013 to must-have summer staples. The colour palette is a trendy mix of monochrome and neon. The prints range from stripes to pop art. The silhouettes and fabrics used are classic summer favourite.
The overall collection is a fine blend of elegant styles and summer chic pieces.

Since I do not do style post, I decided to style my friend and reader of Fashionopolis in Calvin Klein Jeans' latest collection.
For my first styling post I have featured my namesake and friend, Aamna Quraaishi. Her free spirit attitude and lively nature made her the perfect muse and model for this post. 

Look I: Monochrome Magic 

Step aside Black Magic Woman, there is a new seductress in town!
 Monochrome {black and white} has made a huge impact on all aspects of our lives. From fashion to home decor, this classic combo is literally everywhere.

Opting for a maxi dress; a classic summer staple, in black and white stripes- another hot trend of Summer 2013- and pairing it with a delicious orange tote, this look is perfect for a Sunday brunch on the beach or cocktails on a yacht.
If you are in a mood for a glam look, swap the tote with a colourful clutch, add a pair of dangling earrings and bright lipgloss and watch as heads turn your way!

Look II: Neon Candy Pop


Ever since 2012 neons have taken over the fashion world. However, the neon shades of 2013 summer are a tad bit different than its predecessor.
While 2012 favoured the fluorescent shades of neon, 2013 is leaning more towards the candy colour inspired neon shades. A tad big lighter but no less prettier.
Summer is the perfect season to flaunt a colourful ensemble. The neon pink shorts and white tee layered with a man's denim shirt and accessorised with neon blue skinny belt and tie and dye effect colourful oversized statement bag is perfect for a coffee date or a weekend getaway with the besties.
To make this a more work friendly look, trade the neon shorts with a pair of neon pants, slip on a pair of ballerina flats and easily transform your comfy casual look to a chic office wear attire.

Look III: Opposites Attract

They say opposites attract, and we in the fashion world love playing with contrast.

For the third look I decided to pair a classic black bodycon dress with self colour embellishment with an electric blue barrel bag. The electric blue adds a hint of colour pop without over shadowing the dress.
The beauty of this look is that it's not just for the summer, but can easily be worn year round.   


With unlimited trendy pieces to choose from, the above three looks feature some of my fave pieces from Calvin Klein Jeans Spring-Summer 2013 collection.
All the above pieces are available at the Calvin Klein Jeans store in Palladium.

Photograph Credit: The very talented Mr.Jai "Zaiu" Ranjit

I would like to thank Aamna and Jai from the bottom of my heart for being a part of this project. This would not have been possible without the two of you.

What did you think of 
Calvin Klein Jeans latest collection? Share your views with me in the comment section.

Till then, tra-la,
 Amena!!
 Connect With Fashionopolis on FacebookTwitterPinterest, Bloglovin' & Subscribe
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Friday 3 May 2013

Fashion Soirée: Harper's Bazaar & Samsaara Summer Style Event

If you have been a  fashion blogger for over a year, getting invited to high profile events becomes a part of your blogger routine. However when the Fashion Features Director of Harper's Bazaar India personally invites you to an event, you know for a fact that it is something you do not want to miss.

Samsaara in association with Harper’s Bazaar India hosted a private preview to showcase the new Spring/Summer arrivals at their luxurious boutique in Kemps Corner, Bombay.
I was one of the only two blogger lucky enough to be invited and attend the event.

Renowned designers Anand Kabra, Nachiket Barve, Geisha by Paras & Shalini, Nishka Lulla, dressed the muse of their choice in their latest creations.

The ladies of the evening represented everything from festive finery to casual chic.
 Madhoo Shah looked like like a modern day ‘Maharani’ in a resplendent gold and maroon sharara from Anand Kabra, Dipanita Sharma dazzled in a Nachiket Barve creation. Nisha Javeri was adorned in an antique gold sweeping gown from Paras and Shalini’s label, Geisha. Nishka Lulla flaunted her boho chic side in her own design.
Along with admiring the latest collection I had a chance to meet some of the city's most stylish ladies: Chhaya Momaya, Mandira Bedi, Zeba Hohli, Lata Patel, Ramona Narang, Deepika Gehani, Dilshad Khambatta, Bindu Mittal, Arti Murjani, Bindu Zaveri and Jasna Thakersey.

While all the ladies were dressed in their finest best, my personal fave look was of none other than Ms. Ami Patel, Creative Director of Harper’s Bazaar India.  
Known for creating icon covers and fashion magazine editorial and dressing famous celebrities such as Priyanka Chopra, Ami stood out in a crowd of well dressed fashionistas and looked simply spectacular in a Pankaj And Nidhi creation.
[Top: AND, Pants: Marks & Spencers, Shoes: Metro, Earrings: c/o Isharya, Bracelet: c/o Isharya, Lipstick: M.A.C. Ruby Woo]
While I loved the clothes, it was Isharya's jewellery that called out to me. I could not help but try out Isharya Green Blue Moon Bali Filigree Hoops and Jaali Filigree Statement Cuff.

Samsaara's entire Spring/Summer collection has something for everyone.
The breezy ghagras by Anand Kabra were perfect picks for summer brides.
Amit Aggarwal's fantastical creations and Gaurav Gupta's draped dresses were ideal for
 those looking to experiment with the creative side of fashion and invest in statement making pieces. 
If colour is your thing, Nachiket Barve's kitch sarees and Nishka Lulla's neon creations have your name written on it.

It was one of those lovely summer afternoon where I not only had a chance to view the lastest and best of Indian fashion but I also has a chance to discuss fashion with Indian fashion industry stalwarts.
All I can say is thank you to the team of Harper's Bazaar India and Samsaara for inviting me. It was one memorable soirée.

Till then, tra-la,
 Amena!!
 Connect With Fashionopolis on FacebookTwitterPinterest, Bloglovin' & Subscribe
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@a_fashionopolis
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