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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Currently Coveting: #MyFabWishlist from FabAlley

It is that time of the year where you’re constantly running around from one party to next. Between office parties, birthdays and family get-togethers, you have literally exhausted your wardrobe to its maximum capacity. No matter how many clothes, accessories and shoes you have, you will eventually find yourself standing in front of your closet and moaning in misery, “I have nothing to wear!”

Thanks to the socially demanding festive season, even the staunchest of wardrobe recycler and outfit repeater will be left with no options besides indulging in some much needed retail therapy.

While most of us do not need a reason to shop, the current festive season, paired with Great Online Shopping Festival, #GOSF (10th- 12th December), this is the perfect time, plus opportunity, to treat yourself (and your loved ones) with those coveted pieces you have been lusting after forever.

In my constant search for discovering new and fashionably flexible pieces to shop, FabAlley’s latest range caught my attention. 

From on-trend to classic pieces, they always have a wide variety of products to choose.
 However, what I have always liked about FabAlley, and one of the major reasons I keep going back to it, is, their reasonable price points. 

With a few of my fave FabAlley pieces I and created four #MyFabWishlist looks.

Ever since Beyonce sang to the world, “I woke up like this”, I have been hunting for any merchandise that has these empowering words on them.
My hunt ended when I found this I Woke Up Like This Tee on FabAlley.

I Woke Up Like This Tee/ True Tartan Boyfriend Shirt/ Fold Up High Waist Pants/ Gold Glint Black Ankle Boots/ Gold Glitz Shopper Bag/ Glossy Gold Anchor Chain Necklace/ Twisted Gold Black Stud Earrings/ Cat Call Sunglasses

For a polished, neat and classy everyday look, pair the tee with a pair of well-fitted pants. Since winter and tartan go hand-in-hand, layer it with a tartan shirt. Thrown on pair of ankle boots, metallic tote and statement sunnies and you are good-to-go. From meeting to lunch dates, this look is ideal for just about any day of the week.

I Woke Up Like This Tee/ Modern Muse Scuba Blazer/ Grid This Pants/ Game On Hi-Top Sneakers/ Gilded Envelope Clutch/ Blue Stone Studded Choker/ Intertwined Snakes Cuff/ Crystal Hand Harness/ Cool Cat Sunglasses

In a mood for a statement-making, fashion forward look? Try pairing the tee with wide grid print pants, bright colour blazer and hi-top sneakers. Up the style quotient by adding a few eye-catching baubles and be ready to be stalked by all your favourite street style photographers.

I am big on repeating my outfits. Hey, when Kate Middleton sees no shame in doing it, why not all of us. Right? 

With just a few add-on and changes, you can easily create two different looks from the very same outfit. 

First Base Tee/ Glam Girl Silk Midi Skirt/ Propah Lady Ballet Flats/ Monochrome Quilted Tote/ Pale Stones Crystal Earrings/ Greys And Blues Stole/ Intertwined Snakes Cuff/ Crystal Hand Harness/ Cool Aqua Oversized Sunglasses

A basic top and midi skirt is prefect for pretty much anything.  Add a scarf, a classic tote, crystal earrings and ballet flats and you are all set for a hectic day of running errands all day or a laid back afternoon catching up with the girls.

First Base Tee/ Glam Girl Silk Midi Skirt/ Modern Muse Scuba Blazer/ Gold Glint Black Ankle Boots/ Sequined Zipper Clutch/ Glossy Gold Anchor Chain Necklace/ Gold Gem Spike Necklace/ Chunky Chain Necklace/ Bold Purple Stone Ring

For a Christmas/NYE party or date night all you need to do is, up your glam quotient by adding a contrasting colour blazer and a few chunky necklaces and you are all set for a stylish night out.

Now that you know what is on #MyFabWishlist, do share with me what all FabAlley beauties would you like to fill up your closets with. With festive season in full swing, this seems about the right time to treat yourself to your dream closet. 

 Till then, tra-la,
Amena!!
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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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Femina MADE BY YOU {& Me!}

The quote, 'be careful what you wish for because it might come true', has never before worked for me. I have been wanting and wishing for Ryan Gosling and non weight gaining red velvet cupcakes, like forever. 

While some dreams may never ever come true a few might just do!

When I submitted my article for 'Made By You', Femina's first ever crowdsourced issue, the hope was to get published in one of India's most read and loved magazine. Never in a million years did I think that I would get a chance to be featured on the cover. THE COVER!!!
 

I was one of the five writers chosen to contribute for the 'Fashion Documentary' segment. We each had to write about the stylish part of our city.
Without a shadow of doubt I knew that my muse for this piece would be none other than Colaba. For starters, Colaba is one of the few parts of the city that has not been engulfed by the growing mall culture.
One of the reasons why this has not happened is because Colaba on its own is like a big market open to all. Whether you are looking for pocket friendly street shopping or high-end luxury good, Colaba has something for everyone. 

 A landmark location that has managed to incorporate the new with the old, blend east with the west and most importantly welcomed people from all walks of life, social strata and from around the world to come and enjoy a slice of Mumbai life. 

Whether your spending allowance is Rs. 200/- or Rs 2 Lakh, be it cheap, chic or couture, Colaba is one place that has it all.The mixing of luxury, high street and street style fashion is one of the major reasons why among all the 7 islands of Mumbai, Colaba is hands-down the most stylish of them all.

Other than the cover and article, I had a chance to write the Editor's Letter for the Fashion section.

This is where it all began. At the Femina Made by You editorial meet.

It has been one of my life-long dreams to write for a fashion magazine. In fact, my passion for fashion writing is one of the main reasons why I started a fashion blog.
I will forever be grateful to Femina for giving me this wonderful opportunity. 
While most of you have already ready the article, I just wanted to share this with you all.

What did you think of Femina's first ever crowdsourced issue, Made By You? Did you like the concept? And what did you think of my article? Share your views with me in the comment section.

Till then, tra-la,

 Amena!!

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email me- a.fashionopolis@gmail.com

Trend Spotting: Emerald Green, Colour Of The Year 2013

This year the streets of fashion have been turning green. No, not (just) with envy but with major style! From runway to red carpet to street style, “lively, radiant, lush green” better know as Emerald has completely taken over.

The colour gods, aka Pantone decided to make Emerald {17-5641} this year’s colour ambassador. And why should they not? After all, this verdant jewel tone is often associated with sophistication and luxury, and according to its official colour definition, it “enhances our sense of well-being by promoting balance and harmony.”
Also, after last year’s in your face, attention grabbing Tangerine Tango, Emerald with its refined allure comes as a breath of fresh air. No less attractive than its predecessor, emerald green is perfect for those who wish to wear a rich, luxe hue minus the all-eyes-on me boldness.

[Images via Pinterest]

Emerald may be a new shade for some, but here in India it has been a part of Indian attire for years. Often spotted in bridal trousseau or traditional Indian weaves, emerald along with many other tints and tones of green is culturally an integral part of Indian fashion ethos. Plus, the beauty of emerald is that it complements most Indian skin tones.

If you are looking for ways to tryout and wear Emerald Green, here are a few styling options to help you out.

Start Small: The simplest and safest way to experiment with a new colour is by opting for small pieces, aka accessories in that shade. Start with a pair of emerald green earrings or an emerald green tote or emerald green pumps. Once you have found the confidence as well as your comfort zone with the colour you can invest in bigger pieces.

[The look is a combination of Spring Summer 2013 three biggest trends: Bright Yellow, Stripes and Monochrome]

Colour Block with Contrasting Shades: Ever since colour blocking was discovered and made into a trend it has been a hot fave of the fashion world. A great way to mix ’n’ match bold and rich colours of your choice to create striking look. If you think you can rock a color block look, pair your emerald green piece with contrasting shades such as blue, purple, yellow and orange.

Balance With Monochrome and Neutrals: One of the best ways to style a bright hue is to mix it with neutrals. Pair it with a classic monochrome black and white combo (IT trend of the season) or neutral shades such as brown, grey, beige and navy. The neutral colours balance out the ensemble without diluting the charm or taking away the attractive quality of the main colour.

The trick to styling emerald green is by balancing out the ensemble’s colour palette as per your preference and picking a look most suited for you body structure and personal taste.

Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute stated, “The most abundant hue in nature, the human eye sees more green than any other color in the spectrum,”
This year along with nature, emerald green is going to be the most abundant hue of the fashion world too.

What do you think of Pantone's pick for Colour of the Year 2013? And how would style emerald green? Share your views with me in the comment section.

This post was written by me as a guest blog post for Shop InOnIt's Style Blog.

Till then, tra-la,

 Amena!!

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Lesson In Style From Taylor Tomasi Hill

Off late, I have become obsessed with a certain red haired lady and her clothes. I confess- I have an insanely huge, almost stalker-ish kinda style crush on Ms Taylor Tomasi Hill aka TTH. I kid you not, I have shamelessly spent hours Googling her out. Every new image of hers would compel me to look for another one and another one. I was like a young boy who has freshly discovered porn!

As introductions go, Ms Tomasi Hill is currently the Artistic Director of Moda Operandi as well as rumored to be designer Prabal Gurung’s muse. She previous worked as accessories director at Teen Vogue and Marie Claire magazine. She is also on every street style blogger's must-click list as well as an inspiration to fashion lovers worldwide.

Honestly, until a few moths ago I did not know someone with such a unique style and to-die-for flaming locks existed. But like everything else, blogging has introduced me to this godiva of fashion. And in a very short span of time I went from lusting for her wardrobe to appreciating the woman who wore them.

5 lessons of style I learnt from Taylor Tomasi Hill

1.She Stylishly rhymes ‘Tomasi’ with Versatility
 A self-professed “clothing chameleon”, Taylor’s sense of style can’t be pegged down into any particular style box. If you look at all the 16 images {yes, I already told you I have stalker tendency towards her}, not a single style is over lapping. Even though she may repeat the pieces, but the look is super fresh. Her total lack of predictability paired with her versatile styling has made her a hot fave of the fashion blogosphere.

2.Keep Them Guessing
No one knows what she will wear next or how she will interpret a particular trend. But we know it's going to be awesome. And Taylor never disappoints us. Invariably, anything she wears becomes an instant hit and is repeatedly copied. Her out-of-the-box styling ideas and her nouvelle combination is her key to chic. She is like a chef of style who knows how to make us all come back for seconds and thirds!

3.The TTH Trademark.
 Through all her style evolutions a few things have come to be know as her signature look. Her style without fail varies on every occasion, but people instantly notice her by her now infamous crimson hair –a specific shade of red that most women including yours truly would kill for- and cat eye sunnies. Also, one would rarely catch her without her trendy accessories either. 

4.Making It Work. 
Ms Tomasi Hill has taken Tim Gunn’s catch phrase and made a second career out of it. I mean, she know how to ‘Make It Work’. What most us- even the boldest and daring fashion bloggers would not try out- she fearlessly wears its and more importantly makes it look good. I mean this girl can never ever get it wrong. That’s why her effect is so wide spread.

5."In order to be Irreplaceable, one must always be Different." Coco Chanel

TTH has found her personal marque of glamour and style and is not afraid to flaunt it. She takes calculated style risk that she knows will pay off. She does this by mixing  new styles with her classic signature looks. At times her look is dramatic, without the cheap theatrics or simple but never boring or innovate minus the fear of bizarre. The reason so may of us are literally are in love with her, is because she manages to wear what we ourselves would love to be seen in. She is like a real-life personification of our dream wardrobe. And how fantabulous is that!

The Polyvore junkie that I am, I just had to create a collage inspired by TTH. This look by her encompasses some of the major 2012 Spring-Summer trends {horizontal stripes, neon, floral, spring leather jacket}.

What do you think of Taylor Tomasi Hill and her style? And whom do you have a major style crush on? That one person whose wardrobe you literally wanna rob! Share your views with me in the comment section.

Till then, tra-la, 
Amena!!

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Instagram: @a_fashionopolis
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[All Images Via Pinterest, Collage Via Polyvore]

Street Style Inspiration: NEON!!!

For years fashion has been influenced by two walks of life: runway and red carpet. But not any more. Thanks to a new breed of fashion icons-Street Style Fashion Bloggers- we now can turn to the ‘real-way’ and get inspired. For my first street style inspiration I choose neon colour trend. You ask why neon? Well, the streets of fashion have been literally glowing neon. In varying degrees of brightness and boldness, neon colours have been making quite a regular appearance from NYC to Milan and all the other fashionable cities. Plus, it's one of Spring-Summer 2012's major trend. How could a die hard colour lover like me stay away from these gorgeously vibrant shades? I just had to do a neon post!

[Image Credit: Late Afternoon; CinZilicious; Atlantic-Pacific; The Shady Side; Glassworks Studios; Lou Lou Magazine; The Red Dot; Styleeast; Polyvore]

Lets face it; neon colours are not for the faint of heart. They may look effortlessly chic on our fave fashion bloggers, but in all honestly they require little bit of guts and whole lot of panache to pull off the look. Otherwise one may end up looking like an 80’s back-up dancer!

Like me, if you too are new to this trend; but nevertheless tempted to try it, here are a few tips for styling neon colours.

Choose Correctly: First off, you need to pick a color you are most comfortable in, as well as the one that suits your skin tone.

Start Small: First timers can start by picking neon accessories or jewelry. You can add a neon belt or bag to your classic white top and blue jeans look. Or spice up your LBD with a neon pumps or scarf.

Hints of Neon: Clothes with neon accents are a great way to experiment with this trend. Dress with neon piping, or shoes with neon straps or a top with neon motif, is a great way to start.This way you get to try out a new trend without stepping out of your style comfort zone.

Balance is Key: There are those who can carry off a head-to-toe neon look, for the rest of us it’s all about balancing the color palette. You can choose one single statement-making, eye-popping neon piece and pair it with classic black and white or grey or neutrals.

Highlight your Assets: Nothing says all–eyes-on-me quite like neon. We all have one (or more) asset we very proud off. Neon gives you a perfect opportunity to flaunt them. Got amazing legs? Show them off in a pair of neon skinny jeans.
[More information on these pieces here.]

There is no one rule for wearing neon colours. While some street style fashionistas have colour-blocked it, the others have chosen to only accessorize with it. Depending on your style preferences, you too can rock a neon look of your choice.

Well then ladies, are ready to glow neon bright? And what look would you go for? Share your and opinion with me in the comment section.

Till then, tra-la,
 Amena!!

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email me- a.fashionopolis@gmail.com

{Featured On Links À La Mode: IFB Weekly Roundup, March 8th}