ICynosure: April 2017

Every season I appreciate a style and inculcate it with my sensibilities to flaunt it on a day-to-day basis. This summer I’ve taken a shine to the modest yet super stylish Kurti with the thought of experimenting with a piece every morning to find new ways of putting a look together rather than a plain repetition that sets a mundane for the little fashionista in me.

I love the idea of embracing the simplest of pieces and expressing myself through them, leveraging my style-sense to stand out each time while putting together a look. Sometimes when I’m asked in my professional capacity to refurbish a wardrobe for a young professional, the first thing I discuss with them is the ease with which they are willing to trade their jeans with other available options. That sets the tone for the overall haul and the base for the transformation. It is the same basis I’ve revamped my casual-formal ethnic wardrobe, with picking my kurti online; because sometimes even I need some bravery to remain as fashionable and stylish as I claim to be.

Just as any aspect of life requires a firm foundation, so does fashion. And for that one needs to pick the basics well. I believe in keeping one of the two elements toned down while experimenting with the other especially in the ethnic wear game. The fashion industry has always been experimental with ethnic wear, with design variations from sweet school girl styles to the daring siren styles. Do not limit yourself to anything, go bold and try everything; even that what is not on offer. Fashion and style are like a language, some of us may know it while some of us can learn it; so fall into one of the two categories.

So here, I’m going to going to curate a few looks that can easily take you from brunch to lunch or from office to party or from day to night in a jiffy.

Asymmetrical Kurti

Don’t let boredom set in with the straight hemlines, try asymmetrical kurtis for a cleaner and more polished look. Not only will it give the wearer an illusion of height but also highlight her beautiful silhouette. Pair it with fitted leggings or churidar pants for a seamless look and trade the bottom with skinny jeans for a sleek fun look.

Deep-Slit Kurti

Long straight kurtis are back with a bang this season, to make the wearer look taller and sharper. Not only will it make the wearer look chic but also will bring out her professional look. Pair it with large bottomed palazzo pants for the office and then trade those with full-length skirts or dhoti pants for an enhanced casual look.

Layered Kurti

Add dimensions to the overall look with an overlay – layered kurti. Not only will this style accentuate the upper body of the wearer but also make her stand out in a crowd with its unique fall. Pair them with full body skirts or churidars for a formal gathering and trade the skirt with colourful palazzo pants for casual and fun outings.

Let me know in the comments below, what’s your favourite of the three kurti styles and any other looks you recommend for me to flaunt.

Until next time,
~ Heena

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Horror stories have always fascinated me, but only when I’m sure they are imaginary. However nowadays I hear way too many horror stories of compromised security, and those give me goosebumps. Technological advancement has made life so much easier but in hindsight, the same has made every user open to numerous potential risk factors that cannot be mapped.

Just like computers are prone to virus attacks, every device that is connected to the internet poses the same problem, including your Android device that is under constant threat. Chances are, your device is well under the influence one or many 'virus' that you may not even be aware of. Mobile and handheld devices are the prime targets for hackers looking to steal your data; especially since most of us are glued to our devices 24x7. Another crucial factor remains that we logged into our accounts on every available platform, including storing our banking details on our devices; which is a complete security breach. Many of us don’t realise until it’s too late, the dangers of being so careless about security.

More often than not it is better to be safe than sorry. As my phone is my bank of confidential, sensitive and vital information, I have put a lot of efforts in protecting it and securing my privacy. One of the easiest ways to secure my phone was to install an android antivirus app. Though there is a lot of debate about the need for an antivirus app, it is a good idea to install a security software on it. A majority of Android security apps come as a comprehensive package that includes a host of features including real-time security updates, scans for malware, scans for performance issues, alert for malicious downloads as well as remote lock or wipe in the case you lose your mobile.

I’ve installed the AVG Internet Security that offers a choice of free or full protection. The impressive security automatically updates itself, while it acts as a cutting-edge virus scanner that blocks and removes viruses, spyware, and other malware, Block unsafe links, downloads, and email attachments, Keep hackers away with Enhanced Firewall and offers a 24x7 customer service via contact AVG.com.

Not only does my phone remain protected and secure, but also the app doesn’t slow it down. Perfect solution, isn’t it?

Until next time,

~ Heena

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Delhi based on-demand beauty service VanityCube launched in Mumbai a year or so ago and I was compelled to call in for their services since I was carving for that much needed ‘elusive me-time’ in the slithering Mumbai heat. As I absolutely refuse to step out of the house, I try to bring in a salon at my doorstep. And this has been a regular for me, having tried and tested the Home Salon genre with MyGlamm, LocalOye, Belita, and UrbanClap. And now finally VanityCube, a beauty service provider that delivers beauty treatments, just the way you want them, wherever and whenever you need them; I couldn’t resist dialing in.

VanityCube offers some great packages and I booked an O3+ facial, an anti-tan pedicure and manicure. On the day of the service, I first received a confirmation text a couple of hours prior to the appointment and the aesthetician came on time, completely organized and well informed about every little detail I had provided during booking.

The aesthetician set the working space as per the treatment requirements covering the service areas neatly with fabric spreads, towels, to ensure no spillage and mess. She suggested we first begin with the pedicure and manicure and so it worked out beautifully in tandem, giving my terribly neglected hands and feet the love that it absolutely needed. While soaking my hands in the activated water, she started working on my feet and then vice versa. The aesthetician was very careful while working on my feet, scrubbing off the dead skin, cleaning and shaping the nails and pushing the good skin closer to the cuticles instead of just scrapping it off. After the cleansing, she gently massaged my arms and feet and moisturised them well.

Again I opted an anti-tan O3+ Brightening facial since I had a few dark spots from my recent holiday. The facial was quite extensive, almost over an hour with pore cleansing, deep exfoliation, removal of dead skin cells followed by a light face massage; after which the aesthetician continued with a moisturizing pack and finished it with a rubber peal mask. Overall I absolutely loved the relaxation the facial offered and could instantly feel an improved elasticity and firmness in the overall skin texture. The visible impact of the facial was seen after a couple of hours as the skin seemed brighter with a radiance and glow.

I am surprisingly super thrilled with my experience with VanityCube, and it won’t be wrong if I say that they are indeed the best in the business at the moment. The brand checks all the relevant boxes including; same-day bookings, trained and professional aestheticians, good products and above all comfort of your own home.

What do you think about on-demand beauty services? Do share your experiences in the comments.

Until next time,
~ Heena

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I’m sure most of you are aware of my immense affection for Baaya Design for their unique theme where design meets tradition. The retail store located in the heart of Mumbai city offers a unique range of traditional and tribal art that transforms any living space into a cultural environment; with beautifully crafted pieces that promote art forms of Gond, Warli, Lipikam, Madhubani, Kalamkari, Dokra, and much more. Shibani Jain, founder and chief curator at Baaya Design shuttles her time between identifying and nurturing new talent and art forms and bringing them to the retail store to promote and give wings to the artists.

The summers are here and in the heat, Baaya; is yet again set to offer brands that will bring in the cool quotient for the fashionista in you. Shibani has brought new brands Ohar, Stone Vibes and Sasha that will ensure you break the fashion monotony and indulge in something that has been specially created for you this season. The 4-day ‘Summer Somethings 2017’ exhibition beginning today will allow you to pick the best from the brands; especially light and trendy natural fibre garments, semi-precious stone jewellery, and embroidered clutches.  

For the uninitiated, fear not. Here is all you need to know about the brands that are being showcased during the exhibition.

OHAR works with a vision to craft each design with supreme care, providing an ineffable experience to the user. Under the Organic range, Ohar has used 100% Organic & Sustainable fabrics that are comfortable to wear and designed for Indian summers. For the handloom range, they are trying to innovate classic fabrics such as khadi or handwoven fabric from various parts of the country in modern but graceful silhouettes paying supreme attention to every detail from fibre to garment.

STONE VIBES was born out of sheer love for colours and the positive vibes that the stones exude. All the pieces are carefully put together and thoughtfully designed to suit the woman of today, who are fearless, independent and confident. Crafted of copper, silver, and micro gold, stone vibes have a full range of earrings, bracelets and neck pieces for both casual and formal occasions.

SASHA is a luxury brand of exquisite handcrafted and embroidered clutches, custom made for every occasion created by model and designer Mamta Raja. The range of handmade collection includes the Maharani Collection on a rich silk embellished with faux pearls and gold thread work, Jaipur collection inspired from the beautiful city of Jaipur with its magnificent forts, palaces, peacocks and elephants, clutches on beige raw silk with zardozi embroidery and much more.

Aren’t these beautiful? Well head to the store and you will find many more options to pick from.

Until next time,
~ Heena

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A living room is the heart of a home. It's the place where the entire family unwinds and spend some quality time together. Having said that, it requires more attention than any other space in a home. While decorating the interior space one shouldn’t only consider the visual aspect, but put equal emphasis on comfort.

With that list of high priority, let’s list down 5 improvements that will bring cosiness to any living room:

Decorating the Walls
There are numerous ways to refurbish the walls at home. A traditional approach reiterates the use of paintings. However, with the surge of modern architecture simple designs with a mix of mirrors, posters, and photos are given more importance. These solutions provide a clean look that perfectly fits in with white or uni-colour interiors where all items work in unison. Mirrors are especially great as they do not disturb the natural order of things, especially Hollywood Mirrors. Do check this rich collection of mirrors by HollywoodMirrors.co.uk.

Surrounding with Shelves
Another excellent option for doing the interiors is to dedicate a wall or two to shelves. They are seen as obstructing wall decorations but they don't really have to be. One can always use part of a wall for shelves while decorating other walls with mirrors and posters. The main reason shelves should be incorporated into the decor is to make the room cosier and welcoming; especially for a minimalistic approach. Shelves will also be functional as they will provide space to put out things, books and other trinkets that will instil life in the living space.

Add the Right Trinkets
Every living space is full of small items, memorabilia and other trinkets; that have an emotional connect and triggers a memory. Although most people think that one cannot go wrong with them, they are wrong; especially if it conflicts with the colour of the room or if one adds a lot of them which disturbs the balance of the room. However, when trinkets are in sync with the room's essence, they make for perfect decor.

Lighting and Fixtures
It is by far the least important according to people, but in reality, lighting is the most important aspect of a living space. For a classic homey theme, yellow light bulbs are a perfect choice. While for a more modern clean decor, white lights create a uniform atmosphere. However, with so many more options available these days homeowners are in a dilemma whether to paint the light bulbs or buy coloured ones; which in turn can have an enormous impact on the interiors.

Covering the Floor
There was a good reason for carpets to be invented. Besides the obvious fact, they make floors warmer, they will also make the living room much cosier. The fuzziness of a carpet has an important psychological impact that allows one to walk around without shoes or slippers. However, the important point to remember is to cover the entire floor to have a full impact.

With these tips, go ahead and refurbish the most crucial aspect of your home and start living your living space.

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