A Fashionable Fiesta

One does get a high in the company of impeccably designed clothes and accessories. So, to gift oneself a beautiful experience packed with high fashion and luxury, the fashionistas can sure turn to the rather glamourous boutique-Kitsch.

The store houses exclusive collections by some of the leading fashion brands such as Lanvin, Stella McCartney, Diane Von Furstenberg, Alexander McQueen, Halston Heritage, Alice & Olivia and more.


Well, as the holiday season is just around the corner and most of us are eyeing to be on that dream cruise, looking our fashionable best is rather a necessity of sorts. So, how about those hot pants, strappy sandals and open-buttoned tops? Haven’t we already started envying a hot chic tiptoeing her way through the crowd with much oomph? Nudge! Perish the envious thought! And get ready to taste some splendid styles and designs as you get your hands on the Resort Collection of Diane Von Furstenberg.

Our advice would be to flaunt oodles of attitude, a tad bit of tan and not to miss those well-sculpted legs as you walk hand- in -hand with your prince charming.

Just buy our advice and get set to give a whole new meaning to dressing while de-stressing!

AVAILABLE AT:

KITSCH
DLF Emporio, Nelson Mandela Marg,
Vasant Kunj, New Delhi- 110070


Kitsch gives its customers an opportunity to shop for products at prices 5-10% cheaper than any other store in Europe, Middle East or any South East Asian countries.

No Frills Attached!

Let's face it. We all do live in a bubble of stereotypes. No matter how much we try, we always land up doing things that shall put us in a modern and hip light. I am definitely not writing this blog out of boredom (or maybe I am) but this is a thought that struck me when I went for a drive with my best buddies last night. The occasion was simple. We had to catch up and acquaint each other on the latest happenings in our respective lives. Being the independent, carefree and modern girls that we are- we could have easily headed to a posh cafe in the by-lanes of Khan Market or could have chosen from the myriad bakeries in our very own Defence Colony Market. I make no bones in admitting that our sweet taste buds have mostly found solace at these corners. However, this time we decided to drive down to the heart of the city!

But what actually got me by surprise were a group of young boys who were enjoying their meal sitting in a circle at India Gate. Yes, you got me right,at India Gate! This was definitely one of my favorite places as a kid. An occasional picnic, a boat ride or for that matter even getting to slurp and lick a Popsicle meant much. Those boys were not any different from you and me but what was different was their idea of 'fun'. A term that many feel runs parallel to the ideas of drinking like a fish and smoking like a chimney!

Though I must confess that I too love to splurge at swanky malls, pamper myself at splendid spas and not-to-miss the dine 'n' wine session at a new joint every now and then (sorry dad). But sometimes small and simple experiences do give you a high. So, last night the weather, the company and the place were all very humble but had it all to make for an interesting outing! So, here is to all the youngsters like me-never let go of that innocence. There isn't any harm in getting back to being the kids we were sans any shoshabasi. I am for sure not asking you all to crowd at India Gate (after all,the place never runs out of people) but the idea should be to THINK DIFFERENT, THINK SIMPLE!

P.S. Do tell me about your simple and sweet experiences as well.

Dazzling Divas!

Well, even though the red carpet has been rolled, we can still look back and applaud the divas who did leave a mark! The shutterbugs were among the busiest lot of people outside the venue of the Academy Awards as they captured some of the most gorgeous ladies. Well, everybody got to shout out their favourites, so why should I be left far behind? Here are three divas- who according to me made jaw-dropping appearances at the Oscars. However, the common thread that binds all three is their perfect jewel selection!


•Anne Hathaway- She looked absolutely spectacular in her red gown and not to miss-the perfectly polished red pout! Her smile worth a million won hearts of people across the globe. I salute her belief to opt for a bold colour and yes, she carried off the rather sophisticated look quite comfortably! This one does inspire me to go red and dress up vintage style!

Jewels Adorned:Platinum and 94.29 carat diamond necklace, platinum and 5.13 carat diamond ring, and a pair of platinum and 10.15 carat diamond earrings by Tiffany & Co.

•Nicole Kidman- She sure knows how to win our hearts, doesn’t she? She looked truly immaculate in this designer white outfit. The garment did get noticed for its meticulous cuts and design. Well, the lady completed the look by adding some colour on her feet. I absolutely love her shoes! Words like grace and élan are definitely not new to her.

Jewels Adorned:Platinum and 13 carat diamond ring by Fred Leighton.

•Amy Adams- There wasn’t any doubt that her gown was an absolute stunner! The garment fit well on her and accentuated her svelte figure. Well, it was her smile that simply completed the look and made her the perfect dapper-diva! Way to go Amy!

Jewels Adorned: Platinum watch bracelet with 30.75 carats of emerald, and 21.5 carats of diamonds, a platinum necklace with a 33.24 carat emerald and 15.38 carats of diamonds, and a pair of platinum and 2 carat diamond stud earrings from Cartier.

copyright- StartraksPhoto.com

BEST BEAUTY BUYS OF 2010

Well, I must say that 2010 was quite a year as it triggered and resulted in the much needed transformation in me from blindly using the products at the dressing table to keenly taking interest in the beauty products and brands to indulge in. It would be nothing but unfair if I do not give enough credit to my job as a journalist that has only added to my knowledge of the beauty industry. So here I am going to pick my top-9 products of the year which I absolutely love and honestly, cannot do without!!!

1.L’OCCITANE Shea Butter Hand Cream- This is the product that sells like hot cakes at L’Occitane stores. So shy not, and get one for yourself and get blessed with nourished and moisturized hands. Besides you admiring your own silky and smooth hands, your guy too won’t let go of them that easy :p
Price: 1500
Available at: Select City Walk Mall, New Delhi

2. INGLOT Eye Liner- For a person like me who wouldn’t even mind sleeping with the liner on (alarm!that’s quite a sin)-it is a must. The liner does not smudge and stays in place right from morning till you have made your way home. The black shade of the liner is just perfect to get those enchanting eyes.
Price: 650
Available at: Select City Walk Mall, New Delhi

3.MAYBELLINE Expert Wera Quad Eye Shadow- It is smooth, it is effective. To top it all- this palette has all colors which are my favorite ones for the eyes as they blend well with my skin tone. So wear it either during the day or the night but make sure that you do get your hands on it sooner than later as it is among those rare products which do not fade that easy.
Price: 240
Available at: Leading Departmental Stores

4. L'Oreal Paris Total Repair 5 Shampoo- It does come to one’s respite particularly if one is suffering from varying hair woes. It wonderfully helps to repair and strengthen the hair’s fibre and smoothen its surface. This shampoo was a welcome change in my beauty regime.

It isn’t one of those for which you have to pay through your nose as the shampoo can be picked off the shelf at quite a meager price.
Price: 130
Available at: Leading Departmental Stores


















5. KIEHL'S Icy Everest Lip Gloss- The tube says it loud and clear-Unusually Creamy, Yet Light, Sheer And Glossy. This handy beauty boon for those luscious lips should be bought and simply stashed into your make-up kitty. You would be elated to notice how this gloss can glamorize the whole idea of a quick touch-up when one is pressed for time.

Price: 700
Available at: Ambience Mall, New Delhi


















6. THE BODY SHOP Wild Cherry Body Scrub- Gifts mostly do bring a smile, don’t they?My reaction was no different when I received this with a few other goodies from my cousin in Australia. I have always been a fan of The Body Shop stuff at home but this is the one that I refused to share with my mum and sis. This scrub gives your bath a makeover of sorts. You come out feeling refreshed and rejuvenated and not to miss that subtle scent which is absolutely overwhelming. It is undoubtedly an excellent exfoliating scrub that removes dead skin cells with ease.
Price: 745
Available at: Select City Walk Mall, New Delhi

7. LOTUS HERBALS Colour Dew White Nail Paint- This is a color that seldom goes out of fashion. I wear it both in winters and summers and trust me, it always proves to be a safe bet. So take to it as the paint is natural and dries real quick, i.e. good news for all women who put their nail paint always in a rush. Now, just get set to experience the white magic!
Price: 95
Available at: Leading Departmental Stores

8. MARKS & SPENCER White Peach and Almond Hand & Nail Cream- I completely adore it. The fragrance is so romantic that you can’t stop yourself from falling in love with it. For me-it is a ritual to apply this cream every night before I call it a day! This cream is never given a miss even when I am on a traveling spree.
Price: 295
Available at: DLF Place Mall, New Delhi

9. TATHAASTU Yummy Chocolate Body Scrub- How I wish, I could taste it! Yes, believe me, you would actually feel the urge to binge- the moment you get your eyes on it. It looks quite like crumbled chocolate cake. Well, pamper your body with this scrub and gift yourself a younger and smoother skin.
Price: 1499
Available at: DLF Promenade Mall, New Delhi

GO GOA!!!

One only jumps with excitement with the news of a holiday in Goa. Trust me, my reaction was no different when our bookings were done way in advance. But the excitement was met with turbulence of varying degrees like major work assignment, hiccup in the bookings and so on. However, the love for Goa remains unperturbed by such minor obstacles. So, finally leaving behind all this-we boarded our Kingfisher Flight just visualizing the shacks, beautiful beaches, lots of parties, massages, luscious sea food and the fun-packed water sports.

Well, things always don't go as planned and maybe-it's fun this way too. So, here you go-just as we stepped out of the airport-rain welcomed us(this wasn't quite welcoming though because I was already quite fed up of the rains in Delhi) and just as we sat in our Taxi, we started inquiring about places to go, things to do etc etc. And the answer shook us all up and we tried consoling each other but only hoping that the taxi driver was a big time liar. 

If you want to know what he said- all shacks are closed, major restaurants and the rather happening-Tito's is under renovation and yes, absolutely no water sports as we had arrived just before the peak season time. Though while planning, we didn't pay much heed to the dates because we wanted to stay away from all the worries due to the Commonwealth Games considering we stay just five minutes away from Jawahar Lal Nehru Stadium and 10 minutes away from Siri Fort Sports Complex. However, I did catch up on the games once I got back.

Anyways, back to GOA. I must say that there was some truth in what the taxi driver said but we were determined to still have a great time in our most loved place. We had some of the best meals which were not just light on our pockets but absolutely delicious. Some of my recommendations would be Souza Lobo, Calungute; Cape Town Cafe,Baga; Brittos, Baga; Agua,Baga; Sunny Side Up, Candolim and some modest shacks at Anjuna.

(There are obviously more places as well which are quite high on the fun element but these are some of the good places which wouldn't disappoint you even in the off season.) 

Also, for those who like to go big on their breakfast then, Cavala(Baga) and Infantaria (Calungute) should definitely be on your itenary.

Being a wellness journalist, I was surely not going to miss the massages. So, even you should pamper yourself with some of the local massages which are rather relaxing and refreshing. 

Yes, I am also an avid shopper but this time I just wanted to relax considering it was a much needed break from all the hustle-bustle of Delhi but I did shop some local wines, jewellery and not-to-miss an ultra cool hat which I am sure going to wear at a polo match(invite me someone) :) If you happen to go during season time, then the flea market at Anjuna on Wednesday's is a must. And if you are one of those who only swears by top brands then, head straight to the boutiques of Wendell Rodricks and Malini Ramani.

I would also suggest you to look around and go for sight-sighing as it would open the window to the unseen beauty of the gorgeous Goa. The church in Saligaon is absolutely divine. So, whether you go in season time or not, Goa is one place which offers non-stop fun and frolic.

P.S. Thanks to our cheerful and cooperative driver-Dharmen who made sure we enjoyed moving around in his car which had awesome music. And also, my cousin who was always ready to fetch us in his bike :)

just GET SET and GO GOA!!!

Calling the Shots!!!

Trust me; what follows is not one of those run-of-the-mill issues revolving around-FEMINISM that all women love to talk about but something which maybe is sometimes equally disturbing.

What I basically want to express are my not so pleasant experiences, all of which have happened fortunately or unfortunately when I dinned out with my guy-friends.

Many girls consider it their good fortune that they are going out with guys and they shall be assured a prompt and good service considering the presence of men usually steers up the waiters to take note of their table. But I beg to differ, being single these 21 years-I haven't for a second felt the need or want to be accompanied by guys just for the sake of it. Well, but I undoubtedly love the presence of dad and brothers when we go out to dine and wine :)

The basic idea is that I prefer making my own choices and like the staffer coming up, telling me about their specialties and letting me order as per my whims and fancies. The trend is no different when I go and party with my girl gang. But the story is quite contrary when I am accompanied by my friends of the opposite sex. As a rule, the bar menu is handed over to him and the food menu to me. It's not that I am an empty tank or something but what if I too want to order for a drink or so. The matter doesn't end here, the other day I went out with a friend at a posh cafe in South Delhi and was appalled by the behavior of the attendants. Everything from the seat selection to ordering the drinks, the waiter only and only asked my friend as though he was my spokesperson too. And yes, even when I ordered a bottle of water, the waiter took it to the male friend first for his approval regarding the temperature of the bottle.

I am not saying that this is an issue that the world needs to take notice of but when issues of gender equality crop up, they tend to spark some sort of fire within us to change the system etc etc. Here, I don't wish to change the system-all I want is an equal right to call the shots when I go out to dine irrespective of my companion. I hope the concerned people are listening!!!

In the land of the Thai and the Chinese

Well, analyzing the lifestyle and culture of places is a highly learning and enjoyable experience. When I recently toured Bangkok and China, I was constantly comparing the two on various grounds and obviously not drawing conclusions as to which one is better than the other simply because culture of both the places are quite diverse and rich.

As far as the food aspect is concerned, both places have sizeable options to offer on their streets. However, more popular are the scrumptious Pad Thai and Seafood, available at almost every nook and corner of Bangkok. Also, one can fetch some refreshing juices and piping hot waffles in the city. China, on the other hand doesn’t really have lots to offer on its streets and especially if you aren’t the adventurous types as far as food is concerned.

Talking about the therapy that rejoices almost every girl i.e. the retail therapy, both these places are a paradise for shopaholics. Bangkok surely quenches the shopaholics thirst for affordable and trendy clothes and accessories. There are several open markets here like Chatuchak or Suan Lum and lots of swanky malls selling high-end brands which make shopping in the city a memorable experience. China too is a great place to shop but the ones on the heavier side won’t be overwhelmed especially when shopping for clothes in here. The outfits on sale in China are definitely more exclusive and classier than what one gets in Thailand. But yes, shopping in China might just prove to be a little heavy on your pockets.

When in Bangkok, one might not necessarily get the feeling of being abroad particularly if you have been living in India because the infrastructure is quite similar to India and isn’t very developed. Though the sky train in Bangkok on the same lines as Delhi’s metro, making travelling very comforting and speedy. Bangkok also houses few of the best hotels in the world which provide an overdose of luxury to their guests. China, on the other hand is appreciated across the world for having the finest infrastructure with impressive buildings and wide roads. Overall, China is far more developed than many other countries of the world.

Lastly, I must say that people of both the places are extremely hardworking and hospitable. In Thailand, one enjoys the pleasure of communicating with the locals. But in China the interaction with the locals is mostly restricted to non-verbal communication.However, both these destinations should surely be on every avid traveller’s list of must visit places.