Plus Size Layering

After avoiding it for years, finally, in 2014, I found the courage to experiment with layering. Prior to that, I was afraid somehow layering would make me look bulkier. (FYI, this is a major plus size fashion myth!)

The first time I did a layered look was by coincidence. I was at an event where I got to try out the new collection. Lucky for me this was one of those few plus size friendly brands. After finding the courage to wear a sleeveless sheath dress – not a silhouette I generally wear - I needed something to layer it with. In the spur of the moment I picked up a light weight beach kaftan.

While the two pieces were absolutely opposite - one a cocktail dress the other a cotton wrap – together, they looked great. With that one look, I started my love affair with plus size layering.

As a plus size fashion blogger I am always trying out new ways to layer pieces - mix and match and create new looks. 

When I like a piece but it tends to be a tad bit snug, I generally use it for layering. That's how I manage to make the most out of the limited available options.

I have tried innovate and interesting ways to layer my outfits. I have paired a maxi dress (styled as a sleeveless jacket) with a kurta, done a kurta on kurta look, dress, tunic and palazzo pants combo and many more. 
The options are limitless. You just need to find the combinations that works for you.

Images via: Girl With Curves | Gabifresh | Curvy Girl Chic

More information on the pieces here

My biggest source of inspiration are some of my fave plus size fashion bloggers. Their effortless layering and chic styling has inspired me to try out novel looks that I would have earlier been too scared to try.
Along with inspiration, they give me the confidence to not shy away from experimenting with fashion.

Till then, tra-la,

      Amena!!
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Paint it Black

Someone who has had a life long love affair with bold and bright colour and all things bling, black has been a distant love of mine. I have never doubted its slimming powers and timeless appeal, but when given a choice, I have mostly gone with colour over neutral shades.

While black is not the ruling colour of my wardrobe, it is safe to say my wardrobe is not 100% devoid of black either.
As much as I love colour, I think it is time for me to update my wardrobe with what I refer to as, ‘must-have blacks’. Not only is it a necessity but a much needed change in personal style as well.

When I decided to pen down my black lust list, I came up with endless options. However, I finally managed to narrow it down to these 5 black beauties.

Here's my lust list of 5 black things that I wish soon become mine! The hunt has begun.

[More details on these products here]

1. Classic black BORDER SAREE: I have always considered the classic black border saree an Indian alternative to the LBD. They both have that same ageless, timeless appeal. From a 16 year old girl to a 70-year-old grandmother, from a business meeting to a wedding reception and from petite to curvy, the black border saree complements women of all ages and sizes.
It is one of those rare pieces that can easily be passed down from one generation to the next. A black border saree is not only a stylish pick but a wise investment as well.

2. Quintessential am to pm TOTE: I am a major bag hoarder. You name it and I have a bag in that shape and colour in my collection. However, thanks to my colour obsession, I never really got around to investing in a black tote. Especially one that is ideal for any time of the day as well as multiple occasions. My idea of a quintessential A.M to P.M black tote is one that can be carried to a working brunch and dinner date and can be easily paired with Western and Indian wear. 

3.The perfect jet black EYELINER: You think finding Mr.Right is hard? Try finding the perfect jet-black eyeliner (eye pencil/kajal) for oily skin. Now, that my dearies, is the real challenge!

From pencil, liquid to gel, I have more than my share of black eyeliners, but I am yet to find that one eyeliner that does not smudge and run even on the most humid days and oiliest of oily skins. Throw in long lasting and I have literally found what I am looking for. Till the day I find my kind of perfect jet black eyeliner, I ain't going to stop looking!

4. All eyes on me STATEMENT SUNGLASSES: From Jackie Kennedy to John Lennon, ever one had their signature sunglass frames. Mine are cat eyes. While I have managed to find a pair of regular cat eye frames, what I am really look for is, one of its kind, all eyes on me, black cat eye statement sunglasses.

5. Dainty WATCH: Lost amidst the chunky metallic and big dial watch craze, I had forgotten how elegant a dainty black watch looks until recently I saw one of my fave actress flaunting her black watch. Since then, I have been looking for just the right black watch that is the perfect blend of style and class.

Here's the thing-Along with these 5 being on the top of my lust list, these 5 pieces are fashion must-haves as well. Ladies, time to invest in these 5 black beauties.

What do you think of my black lust list? Share your views with me in the comment section.

Till then, tra-la,

       Amena!!
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These Shoes Are Made For Walkin'

“Give a girl the right shoes, and she can conquer the world.” ~ Marilyn Monroe

As a strong believer of brutal honesty, I would like to state upfront, unlike most women I do not have a relationship with shoes. 

Now, now, before you write me off as a fashion nihilist, let me just say, I love shoes, but not in an unhealthy, obsessive, Ms. Carrie Bradshaw kinda way!

For me to really fall in love with a pair of shoes, the pair needs to be a perfect balance of style and comfort.

While most brands have no shortage of styles to chose from, they are not always big on the comfort aspect. And if you are lucky to find a brand that offers both, the chances are it will be obscenely priced.

Ever so often you come across a brand that not only offers comfortably stylish shoes but also has a price point that will not break the bank. I recently discovered one such brand. Say hello to Pavers England.

To be honest, I have known about Pavers England for a while now but never really bought their products. After spending some quality time in their showroom, I was very impressed with their Spring-Summer 2014 collection. Vast variety of shoes and accessories to choose from, there is literally something for everyone.

Since Pavers England USP is comfortable and stylish footwear, here is Fashionopolis’ list of 3 must have comfortable (+stylish) shoes every woman should own. 

The above list is purely based on my definition of comfort. While some people find comfort in flats, ballerinas and wedges, others find stilettos equally comfortable.
What really matters is that the shoe should feel comfortable to you.
From heel cushioning to arch support, a shoe should give you the confidence to not just walk but run around in it.
Pavers England aces on all these fronts. And they manage to do it all in a very stylish manner.

Keeping the current trends and season in mind, here are a few looks styled with Pavers England Spring-Summer 2014 collection.

[More information on the products here]

For those who think comfortable shoes equals to boring or dull, just walk into a Pavers England showroom and your entire perception will be changed.

In matters of footwear I strongly believe in no compromise. You rather have few, but good quality shoes than have many of no quality.

Like me, are you too a fan of comfortable, plus, stylish shoes? Share your views with me in the comment section.

Till then, tra-la,

 Amena!!

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Style It Thrice: Glitter Ballerina

“Give a girl the right shoes, and she can conquer the world.” Marilyn Monroe

Once a friend jokingly said, “All that glitters has Amena written all over it!”
Even though she was joking we both knew that was not far from the truth. For the longest time ever, I have had a thing for all things glitter, baubles, bling and metallic. I love them in all shapes, sizes and styles.

As much as I love all things glitter, I know for a fact how very easy it is to make glitter go from eye catching to tacky and God forbid, trashy! This is one of those trends that can swing either way.

To make this trend work, you need to invest in a piece that is apt for your body type.
Since glitter has a statement making quality, make sure it is adorned on that part of your body that you consider an asset.

Since I am not blessed with a glitter flaunting kind of body, I decided to deck my feet out in all its bling glory.

I have always dabbled with glitter, however, this is the first time in my life I have invested in a full-fledged glitter piece.

For my first ever glitter piece I treated myself to these stunning colourful ballet flats from Catwalk. 
I got this pair for- wait for it- just Rs. 600/-from Shoppers Stop in Hyderabad. The only think I shopped this sale season! (You can buy the exact same Catwalk glitter ballerina from Myntra.com and Jabong.com)

Other than being my first glitter piece, these ballerinas are my first pair of closed shoes in 12 years! 

When I bought them I really did not think styling them would be a task, until someone asked me are these shoes a practical purchase? She further added, the fact that they are multi-colour glitter itself makes them unmatchable with many things.

Where a season mix and matcher like me saw truckload of styling potentials, for someone with an untrained eye these ballerinas could have looked like an outlandish purchase.

For this week’s ‘Style It Thrice’ segment I decided to feature what I like to call my version of the ‘Ruby Slippers’ 

Not only are the ballerinas comfortable, they can easily be styled with a number of different pieces for different occasion.

Keeping the latest trends as well classic styles in mind, here are few of my glitter ballerina styling options.

Working Girl: The first time I wore my glitter ballerina; it was during Lakmé Fashion Week. In fact, this entire outfit is inspired by my LFW Day 3 look. 

For trendy work wear look pair the ballerina with simple cobalt blue blouse, classic black jeans, colourful necklace and oversized tote. The overall look is a blend of classic style with elements of colour pop. 

For a more corporate look, trade the colourful necklace/bag with a subtle metallic/neutral one. 

[DIANE VON FURSTENBERG  Blouse, MANGO Jeans, DAVID AUBREY Necklace, CALVIN KLEIN JEANS Tote, MARC by MARC JACOBS Watch, YVES SAINT LAURENT Blush]

Fashion Week: Fashion Week is that time of the year when fashion industry's best creations are seen on as well as off the runway.
To make a significant statement, style a monochrome print mix ensemble. Pair the glitter ballerina with a black and white printed halter top and printed full skirt. To up the chic quotient, polish the look off with nude pink blazer, black and gold hardware belt,  plum clutch and cuff bracelet.

[JANE NORMAN Top, JIL SANDER Skirt, ALEXANDER MCQUEEN Blazer, REBECCA MINKOFF Clutch, BALMAIN Belt, VINCE CAMUTO Earrings, OSCAR DE LA RENTA Cuff, BOBBI BROWN Lip Gloss]

Date Night: Bored of wearing the uniform LBD or LWD to your date nights? Spice up your look and mix and match the ballerina with a fluro green lace shift dress and black and white patterned minaudiére. Polish the look off with a cuff bracelet, bright lipstick and dangling stone earrings.

[TOPSHOP Dress, ZARA Minaudiére, KATE SPADE Earrings, BACCARAT Cuff Bracelet, NARS Eye Liner Pencil, L'OREAL Lipstick]

What I really like about this pair of glitter ballerina is, that they can easily be styled with Western, Indo-Western and Indian attire. Ideal for the upcoming festive season.

Once in a while it's fun to trade you regular shoes for a pair of glittery statement making ones. Don't you agree? Share your views with me in the comment section.

Till then, tra-la,

 Amena!!

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Style It Thrice: Neon Layered Necklace

While some women have a love affair with shoes, mine is with eye catching statement necklace (as well as bright colour lipsticks and oversized bags). 

In fact, the amount of necklaces and bags I have bought in the past few months has crossed my outfit count!

The first time I saw Accessorize's neon layered statement necklace I had a major Amy Farrah Fowler "Who" moment (the same reaction I have every time I see Harvey Specter!)

I went weak in the knee, my mouth got dry and all I wanted to do was grab that thing and label it as mine!

Ever since I treated myself to this stunning beauty I have been wearing it everywhere. Like literally!

 One of the many reasons why I decided to feature my Accessorize neon layered statement necklace {Rs.2645} in this week's 'Style It Thrice' segment.
 Other than being absolutely gorgeous, it is hands down my favourite statement necklace at the moment; plus one of India's biggest fashion designer complimented it. His exact words:"I love your necklace. It is stunning!"

What really makes this week's 'Style It Thrice' a special post, is, for the first time I am featuring something from my personal wardrobe on this segment. 

I have to be honest- The first time I shared a picture of the necklace-as much as everyone loved it-some of my readers and friends had a few reservations about it.

Most of them felt that you can only wear it white or neutrals and not with bright shades and prints.

I have worn this necklace with white {at Inglot event}, dark brown {at Toni&Guy Hair Meet Wardrobe launch} and bright yellow {at the launch of Trinny & Susannah ‎Makeover Mission India}. 

With the right styling the necklace can easily be styled in many different ways.
Keeping the latest trends as well classic styles in mind, here are few of my neon layered statement necklace styling options.

Casual: As glamorous as the necklace maybe, it can easily be styled for a casual look. Paring the necklace with a soft beige lace top, pink coloured jean, coral tone bag and nude wedges this look is ideal for a brunch date or family gathering over the weekend.

The beige of the top acts as a subtle background for the necklace without stealing its thunder.

Classic: One does not often hear the words neon statement necklace and ornate print in the same statement.
However, when paired together the look can be either drop dead gorgeous or a complete train wreck.
To really make this combination-neon statement necklace and ornate print-work, the print colour has to be in a contrasting shade. 

For an elegant look ideal for high tea or gallery opening, pair the necklace with a midnight blue dress and silver shoes. Polish the look off with tangerine bag and pink lipstick.

Street Style: If there is one place where a trend is tried and tested in every possible way, it is the streets of fashion.
The one trend that has been the darling of street style fashion and caught the fancy of everyone from bloggers to editors, is the neon trend.

Pairing a classic white ladylike blouse, with an eye catching neon full skirt and black bling clutch, the look is bound to have a few heads turn your way. Add a pair of cobalt blue pumps and the neon layered necklace and you are set to stop traffic with this look.
From Fashion Week to first date, this look can take a girl everywhere!

Style Tip for wearing statement necklace: Avoid wearing long dangling earrings with statement necklace. More statement necklace styling ideas here and here. 

Even though the neon trend is on its way out, this necklace has an evergreen look to it. It can be worn with any style, at anytime round the year.

Like me, are you a statement necklace person? And what type of statement necklace do you like to wear? Share your views in the comment section.

Till then, tra-la,

 Amena!!

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KAZO Bloggers Soirée

I was recently invited by Kazo for an exclusive Bombay Bloggers meet.

I have to be honest- this was my first time visiting Kazo store. 

After spending some time going through their Spring-Summer 2013 collection, I must say I am glad I finally had a chance to visit it.

The latest collection offered a wide array of bright colours, trendy prints, delicate laces and statement making accessories.

As lovely as Kazo’s clothes and jewellery collection is, their bag collection is one of the finest ones. From totes to clutches to sling bags, their was something for everyone.[Outfit Details- Top: AND, worn here; Coloured Jeans: Marks & Spencer; Sandals: Inc5; Neon Sling Bag: Kazo]

From the moment I entered the Kazo store my eye and heart was set on this stunning, juicy neon green sling bag. After much styling and posing with it, I can happily say I am now the proud owner of it!

[With Dayle, Renisha, Ila and Kavisa]

The entire afternoon was a fashion bloggers dream date. Great clothes, fun styling session, great company and delicious cupcakes.

If you like what you see, here's your chance to win a fabulous Kazo goodie bag worth Rs. 4000/-
All you need to do is participate in this GIVEAWAY and you could be the lucky winner!!!

GIVEAWAY HAS ENDED


What do you think of Kazo's latest collection? Share your views with me in the comment section.

Till then, tra-la,

 Amena!!

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Accessorize Me!!!

Anyone who knows me, knows about my unhealthy obsession with accessories. Be it bags, jewellery or shoes- I simply love them all!

Other than never really having any trouble finding them in my size, accessories quickly and cost-effectively transform everyday outfits into stylishly different looks.

When it comes to trendy accessories, no brand does it better than Accessorize.
Every time I enter an Accessorize store, I feel like a child in a chocolate factory or Alice in Wonderland.
From colourful baubles to eye-catching bags and gorgeous trinkets, Accessorize shop is a treasure trove for all accessory lovers.
At my recent store visit, I had a chance to go through the entire Spring-Summer 2013 collection. Thematically influenced by different cultures and concepts, the current collection has something for everyone. 

THE BLOOM COLLECTION

THE LAS SALINAS COLLECTION

THE EDEN COLLECTION

THE DEBUTANTE COLLECTION

THE GEISHA COLLECTION

Since buying it all was next to impossible, I decided to do the second best thing: Create collages of my fave pieces from each collection.
All five collections left a strong impact on me, but the Las Salinas collection is hands-down my fave.

One of the things I have always loved and admired about Accessorize is, while their collections are always on-trend, the pieces are designed in such a way that even after the trend and season is over the pieces never really go out of fashion and can easily be worn at any time of the year.

For more information about the latest collection, check out Accessorize India's Facebook Page

All you online shoppers, rejoice, Accessorize is now available exclusively on Myntra.com

Like me, if you too are an accessory junkie, the lastest collection from Accessorize has your name written on it.

Till then, tra-la,

 Amena!!

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Styled With French Connection

While the heat and humidity outside may drive us nuts, the fashion of the season makes us go heady with happiness. Vibrant colours, eye-catching prints and flirty silhouettes, are some the reasons why this season is such a hit with fashion lovers.

As I walked into the French Connection store to review their Spring-Summer 2013 collection, myriads of bold prints, bright colours and classic summer favourites greeted me.

The colour palette offers everything from delicious neons to delicate pastels. From stripes to florals and from exotic to tribal, there is an array of prints to choose from. The silhouettes and fabrics are comfy and lightweight, ideal for the scorching summer heat.

With a variety of trends and looks to play with, here are few of my styling suggestions.

Look I

If there is one trend that everyone loves at the moment, it is the stripe trend. While many like to pair stripes with other prints, I decided to mix stripes and create a full-fledged stripe-on-stripe look. 

Opting for shades of blue from the cool colour palette, I paired a stylized sailor stripe tee with a broad stripe flared skirt. Add a white clutch and nude sandals and you are ready for a blind date or a weekend brunch with the family.

While mixing stripes can be challenging, it is not impossible to pull-off an all stripe look. Select a stripe pattern that complements your body type and make sure there is one common element that holds the look together.

Look II

Summer is the perfect season to flaunt a white ensemble. 

I instantly fell in love with this classy little white dress. With its delicate texture and simple silhouette this dress can literally be worn at any time of the day for any occasion. 

The LWD paired with a gold clutch, statement watch and white sandals is idea for a business dinner or cocktail party. 

If you are in a mood for a glam look, add a neon statement necklace and printed shoes and watch as heads turn your way!

To make this a work friendly look, trade the gold clutch with a metallic tote; slip on a pair of ballerina flats add a bright colour blazer and effortlessly transform your P.M. look into chic A.M. attire.

Look III

The first thing that caught my eye was a pair of these tribal print trousers. I loved the abstract colourful zig zag pattern. As stunning as these trousers are, styling them can be a tad bit tricky. Especially, if you are looking for a day, work-wear friendly look. 

I decided to pair these statement-making trousers with an elegant high-low hem pastel pink shirt and reddish orange cross body bag. The shirt and the bag balance out the colourful print trousers without overshadowing them. The overall look is eye-catching at the same time sophisticated. One can easily wear this ensemble for weekend meeting or lunch with the besties.

Look IV

We in the fashion world love to mix and match and spice things up!

For my final look, I went all out and paired a bodycon knit dress in neon stripes with a fuchsia bag. 

The fuchsia bag contrast as well as complements the neon stripes dress. Keeping the rest of the look toned down and simple, the end result is glamorous without being over the top. 

Mixing bright and bold colours is not for everyone. However, it is a must try for anyone who likes to experiment with fashion, colours and create striking looks.

What I really loved about French Connection Spring-Summer 2013 collection is its diversity. Most of the pieces from the collection can easily be styled in multiple ways for different occasions.

These looks have been styled by me-Amena Azeez- and modelled by my friend and namesake, Aamna Quraaishi.

Photograph Credit: Jai "Zaiu" Ranjit 

This post was written by me as a guest blog post for French Connection blog, 911 Fashion.

You can shop all these looks at the official French Connection online store, FrenchConnection.in

What do you think of my second styling post? Share your views about that and French Connection Spring-Summer 2013 collection with me in the comment section.

Till then, tra-la,

 Amena!!

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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!!
Connect With Fashionopolis on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Bloglovin' & Subscribe
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