Latest fashion trends

Fashion is one medium which reflects your personality. In fact, it’s an extension of your personality. The kind of dresses and hair accessories you wear reflect about your persona. It literally gives a glimpse of who you are, what is your taste and aesthetic sense. So wearing right kind of dress suitable to your personality is a must in personal as well as professional life. Good fashion sense enhances your looks and that further results in getting appreciation. Obviously, getting compliments and appreciation never hurts!

Looking attractive comes up with a condition of adopting yourself to the latest trends. Imagine following new trends and being praised, admired for it. It will feel nice, of course. Women need to update their wardrobe to be in tune with current fashion. Whatever you can wear and carry with style and elegance is a part of fashion trend. You start doing that now and see flattening remarks flying your way every now and then. Most of the fashion shows show latest trends in fashion world. Fashion designer gives you the clue to find out what is in vogue. Fashionable women love using tunics tops. Use leggings with these attractive tunic tops and you will find yourself basking in the glory of glamour. The best part with tunic tops is the fact that it can fit to any occasion. Whether, it’s a simple outing, college class, or date or just chilling out, tunic tops is appropriate for all the occasions. Also, they are latest fashion trend in the town so it makes sense to use them.

Fashion Tips

It’s very for women to keep themselves updated with latest happenings in fashion world. It also indicates keeping in mind what is popular now a days and being aware of what is no more in fashion. Women love to dress and naturally they love to look good as well. Nothing wrong with that but what can spoil the beauty of this natural instinct is not following the ‘in’ thing and still sticking to outdated fashion things. For example, now a day, floral prints are quite popular and in fact they are the latest fashion trends. Colorful large prints add to the beauty and charm of the women. So, while going to shop for the next time, keep this fact in mind.

Salwar kameez and kurta churidar are considered to be ethnic dresses and also evergreen. These can be used at any point of time during any occasions. They are simple, sober yet can be classy. Depending upon your taste and how you use them, you can significantly enhance your image and outlook. It’s almost like they are always the ‘in’ thing.

If used properly and in right combination, hair accessories can bring lot of good effect in looks department. Bobby pins and colorful hairclips are quite popular and trendy these days. Use them with good taste and they can help you look youthful and cheerful. However, combination must be suitable to the occasion.

Finally, try to maintain few good looking belts, designer footwear, wooden bangles and oversize handbags. These are appropriate fashion accessories now a days and quite in demand as well. Fashion is all about not getting freaky and being comfortable in your skin.

Salwar Kameez

Indian dresses represent wonderful assortment of diverse Indian cultures and traditions. Take any Indian cloth; you can feel the special culture and feeling attached to it. Indian clothes have also continued to make their presence felt in the international fashion market because of its inimitable and dazzling styles. We have different forms of garments. While the saree is considered aesthetic attire, salwar kameez is the most commonly worn Indian garment. Talking about salwar kameez, its basically a three-piece attire inclusive of -Salwar (bottom, or the pajama), Kameez (top, also known as kurta) and Duppata (scarf).

Salwar kameez is traditionally straight attire with two slits on both sides going well below the knees. Duppata is normally worn in front with sides covering back and shoulders. But with changing times and trends, the concept of suit has also changed. The textile normally used in salwar kameez is of silk or cotton. Silk is suitable for Indian climate. In winter this garment is available in satins or with heavy brocades. One can also find contrasting styles in salwar kurta and duppata with all of them in different colors. Salwar kameez comes in different styles for special occasions like marriage, Independence Day or bridal wear or for festivals. Every season witnesses some new avatars of this wonderful garment. India’s growing clout in international fashion world has also given rise to new ideas and designs being presented in salwar kameez. It’s fashionable as well as comfortable for young women and married women as well.

Men and Cologne

Cologne is an important accessory in fashion. A must for both male and females, there are several types of national and international brands available in colognes. In fact, cologne is a regularly used necessity for groomed man. The competitiveness and hygienic concern has somehow made cologne a must have object in any man’s requirements. All the professionals and modern men are constantly on their toes from presentation aspect. Personality plays a great part in any man’s professional life. No educated man with a good job can afford to be unwashed and scruffy. One must have clean clothes, good hygiene and minimal accessories.

Fragrance can be categorized in cologne, scent or after-shave segments. A man must be very careful while selecting the appropriate fragrance. One must avoid the temptation of bathing in cologne. It should be used in moderation. A single squirt of bottle is sufficient for daily use. The rule says, one should not apply more than one or two finger’s worth of cologne.

One must change cologne keeping in mind season. In summer, light scented cologne is ideal whereas in winter strong musk or wood based scents are considered as suitable. Summer scents are better having grassy or citrus flavor. It also helps to have two cologne; one for daily use which should be light and other for specific occasions. Men should also apply cologne twice; once in morning and then again in afternoon. Its apt for persons with tight work schedule. Cologne should be applied at particular places like inside of wrist, below neck and on chest region. Cologne applied on these places mix up with body’s peculiar scent and provides the best effect.

Famous Indian Fabrics

Talking about beauty and range of Indian textiles, how can one forget Kanjeevaram or Temple sari from south India. These renowned saris come from the town of Kanchipram. Ask any would-be Indian bride, you will come to know what it means to wear kanjeevaram sari. In fact, it is every birde’s dream simply because of its magnificence of weave. Design varies in horizontal and vertical checks and lines. Forst manufactured 400 years back, the Kanjeevaram sari can often be found in gold threads or silk yarn.

Regal Paithanai is a popular textile because of its grandeur. Manufactured in Paithan, a small town in Maharashtra, it takes months to weave a paithani. Its most famous design consist of flowers and motifs of parrot. Many of you must have heard of Tanchoi. Legend says, three Chinese brothers settled in Surat and mixed Indian and Chinese style to weave this magical textile. Its speciality is subtle colors, embroidered look, light drape and elaborate work with extra floats.

Other famous fabrics include, Maheshwari, Bhagalpur, and Chanderi. Often designed in combination of silk spun and cotton, these fabrics belong to different states of Madhya Pradesh and Bihar. These light fabrics are quite exquisite and have intricate borders. Talking about double Ikat Patola, one of the most desirable Indian fabrics, is simple a masterpiece. States like Gujarat, Orissa and Andhra Pradesh are the originators of this wonderful fabric. The fabric has pure silk and will cost a bomb to your purse.

Other famous fabrics are Gadhwal sari from Deccan, Tissue Kotah from Rajasthan, Jamewar fabric of Kashmir, Baluchari textiles from Baluchar in Bengal, Kalamkari from Andhra Pradesh and many more. Indian fabric continues to mesmerize not only India but western world as well.

India's Textile Riches

India is a land of hundreds of different textiles both printed and woven. Each region in India has its won typical fabric which is closely associated to its history. Indian textiles riches have continued to mesmerize world since long. Few of the most popular textiles are favorite with everyone irrespective of region, gender and age. If we talk about Gujarat, it is famous for silk and brocade weaving. Even during the Mughal rule, Gujarat was known for producing velvets, silk and weaving brocades. There is a place called Aashval which is famous for its rich colors in contrast to the simple brocade border. Common themes used are, trees, doves, flowers, parrots, lions with colored silk interspersed with jari.

One talks about Indian textile and does not mention brocades of Varanasi, is almost out of question. One of the most well known symbols of wonderful Indian textiles, brocade or also known as kinkhwab (fabric of dreams) is the weaving of pure silk and gold strands to create a lush fabric. Varanasi designers are famous for incorporating various designs in single design. Several new designs can be seen incorporated in Varanasi textiles. These designs range from creepers, birds, floral patterns, animals, to hunting scene patterns and human forms. Not for noting, Varanasi is known as home of silk and brocade weaving. There are several other regions in India which are famous for independent brocade. The names which come to mind are; Aashavali, Tanchori, Jamewar, Paithani, Kanjeevaram, and Balucheri.

Black & Beautiful

Mention the color black and one starts getting the images of class, elegance, sophistication, mystery and a great deal of enchanting appeal. Wearing a black dress totally separates you from the crowd. The beauty of this color lies in its ability to go with any almost anything.

Black, undoubtedly is one of the safest and easiest colors to wear. This applies for both men and women. One needs to care about few things whole wearing black. One must wear matching accessories. If the entire outfit is black, opting for deep black makes sense because dark shades of this color provide that extra richness and zing to your personality. If the outfit is black which is already a sensuous color, having tassels, plunging necklines and bell sleeves can make it even more attractive to the naked eyes.

Beauty of an all black outfit is truly accentuated with usage of luxurious fabrics like satin, velvet and leather. It enhances the glamour factor. Women with fair complexion need to use light make ups whereas darker complexions should maintain a light tan.

Women also need to use right mix of accessories to stand out in the crowd because in a party most of the women wear black outfit. So having a posh hand bag or swarovski bracelets or attractive jewellery is all it will take to make you the center of attraction. Jewellery made of gold or silver or even turquoise go beautifully with black outfit. Think of having a pair of strappy pink heels with crystal accents and find yourself surrounded by several admirers.

Draping saree in Different Fashion

Draping saree is being done in different fashion in different regions. This is often inspired by culture of that particular place as well as religious preference and lifestyle. If we look at urban females, we will find attractive array of saree in forms like graceful silk, frequent usage of brocades, stiff tangils and chiffons. These saree are maneuvered around in desired way so that effect is long lasting as well as comfortable for the wearer. The way saree is worn in cities, it forms a skirt with pleats and tied around the waist. Generally, the part or also called pallav or pallu is draped over the left shoulder. Pallu is often left flowing or pinned up for the desired effect.

If we look at Bengal, we will find refined saree being used in sophisticated fashion. It looks quite elegant, seeing Bengali women draping saree in their traditional fashion. Sans any pleats, saree are wrapped around the waist and tucked neatly. The best time to see collection of Bengali saree and its aura is festival time. The diversity of India truly reflects in saree and draping. Walk around southern India and one can find different style of draping. Here, pleats are at the back instead of typical front portion. Whereas in Tamilnadu, extra long saree is worn by both Iyers and Iyengers females in a complicated fashion. The length is nine yards instead of traditional six yards.

Maharashtrian saree are also of same length and worn in similar fashion to that of Tamilnadu, whereas Santhal tribals of Bihar use saree which are up to the knee length. No wonder, this wonder garment has kept mesmerizing women of all age groups and even survived the onslaught of western garments.

The quintessential Saree

Sari is a typical Indian dress. Six yards of cloth, that’s all. Sari is worn by Indian women across all the states of India with much aplomb. Considered as one of the most elegant dresses ever worn by a woman, saree symbolizes feminism and sophistication. Saree can be stylist as well as seductive. It adds an element of poise and glamour to the wearer. The striking aspect of saree is, despite India treading firmly on the path of modernization, saree has remained an essential dress in millions of Indian households. It has managed to ward off all the new dresses, western clothes and different cultures. If truth be told, saree symbolizes India ness. In the life of Indian women, saree holds an important place. Whether its marriage, festivals, child birth, death and many more things, saree conveys it all. Different colors of saree tell different stories. Red is what one associates with bride and marriage. Silky gold color is worn in times of festivals like Diwali and Dasahra. White saree denotes parting of a loved one.

Every region of India presents a different facet of saree. Also, weavers and dryers of a particular region express the story of saree in a different way through their designs. Like, south Indian saares are represented by silk in appealing colors. Few of them even weigh 10 kgs. Patola weave and bandini style is associated with western region whereas kantha stitched silk saree is a hallmark of Bengal. Few of these Bengali saree take as much as six months of preparation. No wonder, they look so exquisite and fascinating. Banarasi saree are famous for their brocades whereas paithani silk saree is a gift from Maharashtra.

Khadi’s Arrival in Fashion World

Khadi’s journey into the world of fashion began with khadi show which was presented in Mumbai by the Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC). It was organized in 1989 and the real highlight was showcase of 85 dazzling garments, created by Devika Bhojwani. It was an interesting mix of eastern and western attire. Famous designer Ritu Kumar presented her first Khadi collection at the Crafts Museum in 1990. It was also an informative show because of her unique Tree of Life show. It was actually an audio visual tableau which displayed historical journey of textiles in India, the creators of textiles and design lexicon of the country. She also presented talents of those who have been instrumental in regenerating textile crafts and the potential users of the garments.

Her show was a big hit and in fact so big that it has been presented several times. This show was also presented in London in1997 where khadi managed to fascinate British as well. Today, khadi’s popularity is such that it’s a must part of every fashion conscious person’s wardrobe. With changing times people have started to adopt retro fashion and in that case khadi leads the pack.

Kamal Wadkar is another renowned promoter of khadi clothes. She is involved with traditional crafts. According to him, khadi is also the ideal fabric considering Indian climate because of its cool texture and loose weaving. He is credited to present almost 4500 garments in 150 styles in different colors weaves and embellishment with prices ranging from Rs.460-750. She had also aptly titled her exhibition ‘Elegance in Khadi’.

Khadi- The Journey

Soon after independence, Khadi and Village Industries Board were established in 1953. Initially it had only 156 registered institutions. But how drastically, things have changed. Now a day every village in farthest parts of the country has it own khadi institutions. From the days of finding the weaving of khadi rather difficult, things have changed a lot. Now, range of khadi products is truly unlimited from garments to household linen to furnishings, etc.

Let’s take a look into the weaving of khadi. The basic step is spinning of the thread on the charkha which is followed by bobbin winder, then sizer and finally the weaving process. Under the system, a weaver does all the weaving at his place in an individual capacity whereas spinning is organized by the khadi Board. Weaving is most often done by men whereas spinning is performed by women and girls of the villages. There is a lot of work involved in the process and that explains its comparatively higher price than mill or handloom cloth.

Khadi has traveled a long way since the days of being identified with freedom fighter’s fabric. With changing times, it has turned into a fashion garment. It’s hard to imagine the days when it was ridiculed for being a fabric for the farmer and the rural wearer. But now, demand is such that, despite millions of workers all over India, demands are never met.

Khadi - The Origin

Khadi commands a sentimental value for Indians. It is often associated with Mahatma Gandhi. Someone said, the first true Indian designer was Mahatma because of his appeal to Indians to wear khadi garments. That appeal was necessitated because of the need of creating self reliance and proving unity of India to English. Khadi also symbolized the need and importance of indigenous manufactured goods. Khadi represented India’s resistance and revolution. Khadi was also the face of Indian identity. Many people get confused between charkha with kargha (handloom). The basic difference between the two is while khadi is hand made; handloom yarn is processed at the mills.

The actual meaning of khadi is any cloth that is hand spun and hand woven. India has long history of textiles. In the Vedic period, Aryans used to produce their own cloth. Khadi had an important role in marriage functions. Khadi charkhas were presented to brides in their wedding trousseau to encourage spinning of the yarn.

Even history supports and validates importance of khadi and basic Indian textiles. As per the historians, Alexander the Great was mesmerized by the art of fabric making and printing. The renowned traveler Marco Polo was also dazzled by this Indian beauty. But it was our own father of the nation who gave it the real importance which was long due. His launching of movement of spin your own cloth and buy hand spun cloth had whole country flocking to wear khadi and rejecting all other types of textiles. No wonder, khadi is considered as the fabric of the freedom struggle.

Latest Trends and Prices of Dupatta

Rajasthani dupattas are also called Laharia. They are mostly accompanied by tie and dye strips in colorful contrast. The literal meaning of Laharia is one that ripples in the wind. This ripple effect can be seen in not only dupatta but also in its bold stripes. Both flutter and its effects fluttering give it an impression of rippling in the wind. In some northern parts of India, it is used as a headscarf knotted at the back of the head.

The popularity of dupattas can be seen in various shopping centers in Delhi and Bombay. Numerous shops in these metros are specialized in selling various forms, designs and prints of dupattas. One can see crinkled tissues, dupattas in tanchoi, organzas and tissues, gold black prints. Among other latest trends in dupatta are; khadi-work in cottons, tinseled work on heavy silken brocades and chiffons and dupattas in tanchoi, organzas and tissues.

The price range of dupattas differs from place to place and brand to brand. Price also varies according to the style of dupatta. Like simple printed cottons and chiffons are available in relatively cheap range of Rs.60/- to Rs.80/-. More the embroidery work, highly priced will be the dupatta. For example, bridal dupattas and brocade are sold at Rs 500/- and above. One can have amazing types of dupatta provided one is willing to loosen the purse strings. The Tangails, Kanthas and Baluchars dupattas from the state of Bengal can be found in range of Rs.700/- to Rs.200/- whereas bandhini and laharia in silk and cotton range can be bought in region of Rs.100/- to Rs.500/-. Other favourite dupatta is Benares cut-work with zari and embroidered tili which is available in Rs.500/- and above.

Usage and History of Dupatta

Dupatta can be used in various formats. It can be worn with ghagra choli, with one end of Dupatta tucked at the waistband of the ghagra (long-skirt). This style is most often used by Rajasthani women. They are also known for using the dupatta on their head and both end of it flowing outwards. We can also see its usage with jeans, sometimes as a sarong or turban or sash. In south India, a different nomenclature is used for dupatta worn over a low skirt. It’s called half sari whereas in Assam it is called chaddar. In Gujarat, they call it chunri, whereas it is known as Dhathu in Himachal Pradesh. These dupattas or orhni or odhni comes in different texture of silk, cotton and chiffon. It also varies in length according to the region and culture of the place.

Going by the history, we don’t see any trace of dupatta in ancient civilization. Even archaeological evidences of Mohenjadaro and Harappan civilization don’t give us any proof of this particular garment. Though, vedic Indian people used to wear three garments; an under-garment called nivil, a garment known as vasas, and an overgarment known as adhivasa. Adhivasa was similar to dupatta or can also be termed as chaddar of modern times used by both male and female to cover their upper parts. Gradually it developed on its own as Indian women became more aware of their modesty.

Indian Dupatta

Dupatta is a typical Indian thing. Used as a traditional veil as well as fashionable scarf, Dupatta has omnipresence in India. More of a fascinating accessory, Dupatta provides wonderful finishing touch to western style dresses as well as Indian attires. Also known as the orhni or odhani, the literal meaning of dupatta is covering. Almost a diaphanous veil, it is used as a covering for the upper body parts, back, shoulders and head. The orhni is simply a length of cloth-printed, embroidered or plain, measuring two and a half to three down the back or wrapped around the shoulder.

Dupatta can be worn in various modes. One could be the traditional style of draped over the head. The other mode is, like worn with the middle portion of the dupatta resting on the chest like a garland and it’s both ends thrown over each shoulder. Often while being used with salwar-kameez, dupatta is flowing down the front and back, pinned in neat folds over just one shoulder. Some other times, both of the inner ends are knotted together over the other shoulder to form a cowl-like pattern, otherwise it generally drapes down the front and back.

Dupatta is a striking accessory that looks both graceful as well as stylist. It also provides a bit of value addition for the dress. Imagine, a plain silken or cotton salwar kameez ensemble worn with a heavily embroidered or sequined dupatta decorated with a beautiful border! How elegant! A few minor changes in dupatta or even in the way it is worn, and the whole thing gives fascinating dimensions and looks to the outfit and consequently the personality!

Indian Men’s Wear- Culmination

Witnessing the rapid growth in the Indian men’s wear market, many international brands have set up shops on Indian Territory. Major among them are; Benetton, Wrangler, Pape, Lee etc. they all are vying to have a share of lucrative Indian men’s wear market which is slated to rise even higher in coming times. Few old guns also opened their retail men’s wear segments. Reputed Raymonds launched Park Avenue men’s range or readymade garments whereas hardcore mills empire Bombay Dyeing launched Vivaldi shirts. Joining the bandwagon is the VXL group of mills comprising Digjam, OCM and Jiyajee with their line of Hagger men’s wear.

However, with all the growth in Indian men’s wear, women’s wear still sells more. And that’s quite obvious considering women’s’ taste for fashion. But potential of men’s wear has been noticed by big names in fashion and clothes industry. As a proof of this fact even specialist women’s wear designers like Rohit Khosla and Tarun Tahiliani, have entered into male clothes design segment.

The price structure for men’s wear is no more the deciding factor in purchasing process. One can find a local t-shirt off the pavements getting sold for as low as Rs. 50/- and at the same time, up market prices in range of more than 10,000-15000 for an overcoat at a classy fashion house.

Indian men have changed. Men’s wear has definitely come of age with blending pattern of both Indian and western clothes.

Indian Men’s Wear- Formal Wear

Indian readymade shirt brands were initiated by Liberty in 1950s. Following its success, several other brands stepped in. major ones were; Double Bull, Charagh din, Cliff, Van Heusen, Louis Phillip, Rod Laver, Fus, Globetrotter, stentcil, Ambassador, Snowhite, Karl Lewis etc. Major in-house brands in shirts are; Benzer, Instyle, Sheetal, Roopam etc. famous designer labels are Arjun Khanna, Rohit Khosla, Suneet Verma, Ravi Bajaj, Anu Ma, Rohit Bal, Krishna Mehta ahilian amongst the others.

Indian men generally prefer color like purple, pink, mint green etc as can be seen in the huge sales of shirts with above mentioned colors. Exclusive clothes are no longer in the sole domain of Indian women. Among western garments Indian mn prefer more of the shirt, trouser and suit to a certain extent. Indian shirt market has most number of manufacturers who are vying for a large chunk of the estimated Rs. 200 crore markets. According to rough estimates, there are almost 5000 shirts manufacturers in both branded and unbranded garments.

Trouser, the most preferred follow on of readymade shirts has also many branded and unbranded manufacturers. Famous names include, Zapata and Pantaloon among others. This is a common strategy and understandably so, that every major shirt manufacturer prefers to combine trousers with the garments in order to give it a more coordinated and matched look. Men’s wear also includes western suits and tuxedos. These are mostly available with branded names like Park Avenue or fashion boutiques. Though, most of the Indian men prefer them made at custom tailors. As a testimony to the rising Indian men’s wear, many departmental stores and malls have started to have separate men’s wear section that caters exclusively to the selective dresser.

Indian Men’s Wear- Ethnic Wear

India’s ancient culture combined with retro fashion has gained huge momentum and its competing intensely with western wears. Most traditional of Indian garments is Sherwani. Considered as a streamlines garment it has extra long length; 110 centimeters to be precise. It is also quite a structured ethnic wear. Sherwanis are combined with Churidars and trousers. Its fabrics could be either terry wool or brocade. It also has another version with asymmetrical opening or double breasted.

Most used casual wear for Indian men is Kurta-Churidar combination in light weight cotton, mills, pure silk or polyesters. These Kurtas are often collarless or with a plain band. Modern versions of kurtas often use draped effect as well. These kurtas are either have the 2-piece or 6-piece cut. The Bundi or Bundgala is another traditional Indian wear. It’s almost an Indianised version of western waistcoat and used with Kurta Churidar. Bundi gives a style statement to the informal Kurta-Churidar combination. Fabrics used in it are; raw silks, cotton, linen, silk, terry cotton, terry wool or brocade.

The Prince or Jodhpuri coat is Indian version of lounge suit. Its length is almost similar to suit jacket at 78 centimetres. It is used in combination with narrow matching trousers and gives a royal feel about the wear. Fabric is similar to that of western suit. These ethnic dresses have always been in vogue courtesy their ever lasting appeal and style statement factor.

Indian Men’s Wear- Coming To The Fore

The spurt in Indian men’s wear can be attributed to number of facts including, evergreen Indian movie world, foreign influence, phenomenal growth in number of designers and fashion houses. Indian men are blissfully aware of the world fashion. Interestingly, on an average Indian male is perceived to be slightly conservative compared to his western counterparts and a push is still considered essential for him to get more fashionable.

Technically or rather fashionable speaking, Indian Men’s wear in India is segregated into two distinct groups of Indian and Western. Indian men’s wear can be seen in corporate world on form of formal suits and dresses whereas western dress has two further parts of formal suits and casual wear.

India boasts of a proud clothing culture since ancient days. Whether its ethnic dresses or royal attires, one can find the splendor and grandeur reflecting from a source of Indian clothing. Its time of retro fashion and following the trend, India’s rich sartorial heritage manifesting in style of the ancient Maharajas and Mughal kings has started to acquire the center stage. Indian dresses like Sherwani, Budni or Nehru Jacket, Prince or Jodhpuri Coat and Kurta Churidar etc have taken center stage not only in India but in western world as well. Things changed in post-independence era. Before independence, most of the formal wears were designed according to western norms. Handspun fabrics became the new norm after independence.

Indian Men’s Wear

Indian men are now getting more and more fashion conscious. One can find Indian men in all sorts of clothes ranging from Indian clothes, western styles, the formal shirts and casual kurtas, sherwanis, fashionable suits. Fashion and latest designs are new buzzwords in Indian men’s’ lifestyles.

Indian fashion is no more about fairer sex. Since ancient times, Indian men have kept up their own unique fashion sense. The only change is with advent of new economy and receding global boundaries, Indian men have started getting more options and they are no longer shy of flaunting the latest trends and designs. Indian males are known to use unstitched garments like lungi, dhoti, and sari etc. But thanks to modernization, dressing habits of men have also become more modern. Changing dressing sense of men can be best understood from the fact that, in a span of 2-3 decades, the readymade garment industry in India has grown hundred fold. Readymade garments have turned out into a major industry of which 70 percent is consumed internally and rest 30 percent is exported.

As a proof of rising fashion awareness amongst Indian men, several world class brands have set shops in India. The name include likes of Ensemble, Glitterati, Intermezzo Linea, Anja San, Mutiny etc. these brands are specially for affluent class male population who will settle for nothing less than exclusive high-priced garment. Apart from the above listed names several others men’s wear boutiques can be seen setting shops in every nook and corner of urban India.

Indian Designs

Several international fashion events are being organized in India every year. Examples include India Fashion week and several yearly shows by reputed fashion designers. Another proof of growing repute of Indian fashion world is good number of Indian beauties winning world beauty competitions like Miss World and Miss Universe. Most of them have won on sheer strength of Indian fashion and its uniqueness. Famous Indian fashion designers are; Ritu Kumar, Rohit Bal, Rina Dhaka, Muzaffar Ali, Ritu Beri, JJ Valaya, Manish Malhotra, Satya Paul, Abraham and Thakore and Tarun Tahiliani to name a few.

The range of Indian fashion clothing include, ornate clothes specifically created for wedding ceremonies to casual wear, prêt lines and sports wear. Fusion of indo-western fashion has also been done with utmost delicacy and taste. Traditional embroideries like crewel, chikhan and zardosi along with conventional fabrics have been mixed with western designs and managed to carve a niche amongst fashion conscious populace.

Indian diversity also helps in providing a multiple range of clothing line for designers where they can allow their creativity to produce world class outfits. Kashmiri phiran, south Indian saree and mumdu, dhoti of Rajasthan and Gujarat, woven sarong designs of north east provide a wonderful amalgamation of fascinating dresses. Apart from these, Churiar kameez and salwar kameez, kurta-pajamas, sherwani are other formal dresses, mostly prevalent in urban India. Youngsters mostly prefer jeans, t-shirts, Bermudas, capris and other casual clothing. Indian fashion is constantly evolving and in times to come we will see more of new trends and new designs.

Indian Fashion Scenario

India is renowned for its rich and assorted textile tradition. It is truly a wonder that each and every region of India has its own exclusive native attire and traditional apparel. Most of the rural population still wears traditional clothes, urban India is changing fast with new path breaking international brands reflected by the young and exciting, in the multi-ethnic major cities of India. Indian fashion industry is nothing but vivacious. Its still a emerging industry where many new models and designers are waiting in the wings to showcase their huge talents to the world.

In old India textile designing was all about weaver and his skills but in new India its all about creativity. More the creativity, better the chances of designer being famous and recognized. Indian fashion scenario is a colorful mix of best of Indian and western designs. Both these styles are equally popular amongst the youth and class depending upon the suitability of occasions. One can witness the fusion of Indian fashion with that of world in the urban parts of India. India is doing its part as well by giving its famous accessories to the western world. Whether, it is Bindi, Heena or mehendi or bangles and even sari, foreign celebrities can be seen to wear them with aplomb and pride. India is also hosting several fashion shows of world class standards.

Fashion Shopping- Conclusion

Previous article contained information about concept of fashion shopping in rising Indian economy. It has been concluded that fashion shopping is one hugely potential area where even sky is not the limits. That also explains every now and then few multinational companies settling themselves in the Indian Territory. Most of the tier one and two cities have famous global brand names which gives us an indication of growing buying capacities of Indian population.

Fashion wise, Delhi and Mumbai tops the list. Delhi has witnessed phenomenal establishment of expensive labels and boutiques because of its reputation of haute capital of India. Mumbai is more known for its haute couture as well as day to day shopping in various local streets.

Other important development seen in Indian fashion industry is culture of multiple products having put under the one roof. That’s what general public prefer; to shop for every required thing at one place. This is not only convenient for customers but also provides more chances to boutiques to sell more products. We can see its example in various shops which not only keep clothes but also numerous accessories. Few of them even have footwear. This arrangement proves very crucial in keeping loyal customers over a period of time. Fashion shopping also gets a boost with the advent of smiling customer service and detailed attention to every customer.

Fashion Shopping- Introduction

Talk about fashion and one starts feeling some sort of healing process. In a matter of few decades or rather years, how drastically things have changed for fashion industry. People from all age group are aware of new fashion trends. People from affluent class, upper class and higher middle class have become very fashion conscious. This trend clearly shows in rising number of malls demonstrating all world class brands. People can be seen flocking to these shops looking for their favorite brands.

This new phenomenon is termed Fashion shopping. This is a world phenomenon in its true essence. Why do we indulge in fashion shopping? To feel good! To pamper ourselves! To be in tune with current trends! To make ourselves feel special! Yes, all of these and many more. And the combined effect shows in enhanced self worth and achieving complete well being. Not for nothing people are advised by therapists to go for shopping once in a while because that feeling of indulging in special shopping finally results in looking good and feeling better.

Growing purchasing power of Indian consumers combined with more awareness of global brands is a tempting offer for many international companies to set their shop in India. The potential is huge and target customer base of almost one billion! One can imagine the lucrative prospects in India in coming times with India set to rise even higher in economy, education and healthcare.

The Trends In Indian Jewellery

Indian fashion industry marks diversity. The fashion sense that started developing hundreds of years ago, still survives, but now displays a fusion of its journey. Whether we talk about the tribal jewellery of Rajhastan, or the bangles and jhumkey of traditional India, it has all amalgamated into the new trends of fusion.

The jewellery has not just developed in terms of wearing styles and designs, but also in terms of metals and materials. Gold has been the most popular texture used for Indian fashion world, and not just plain gold, but its purest and most malleable form, “kundan”, has been talk of the town. Fashion in India doesn’t just adorn beauty, but it also signifies the aesthetic sense, status and affordability of Indian public.

Every body part discovered its own fashion. Such as if ears had “jhumkey”, the arms had "bazu band". If bangles or “churian” adorned wrists, "bindis" and "tikkas" adorned forehead. From `kamar band` signifying the waist to the "payal" or anklet signifying the ankle, fashion defined its own meaning in Indian history.

Although gold will always remain the symbol of traditional Indian jewellery, Indian fashion has incorporated a lot of different textures. Gold just not remains in yellow gold color, but now white, blue, green and other forms are coming as well. Bohemian Jewellery is the brown hardwood jewellery bringing more diversity to the textures. Next, diamond tends to be the most expensive and popular fashion trend. Its copies in other textures such as zircon are also available, but today it defines the status and fashion sense of every aspiring Indian woman.

Monsoon trends…

As the Earth seems to be parched after the blazing sun stroked its heat for 3 long months, the wet and sodden season sets in. The clouds have now begun to shower their blessings to Mother Earth in the form of pearl like drops of water. I’m sure you have guessed it till now. It is none other than the season of ‘Monsoon’.

Monsoon certainly adds joy and life to nature but also beautifies ones clothes with muck and muddle. This season some do’s and don’ts are unavoidable for everyone.

Girls must pick up some hot pants and shorts to ensure comfort and console. Enormous, frilly and lacy umbrellas definitely accessorize simple outfits. This could be replaced with long raincoats of various colors and patterns. This monsoon keeping it short and simple is the perfect way to go. Make up certainly finds no place specifically as it might turn out to be a blot in the look that you sport. The mantra to enjoying this season in fashion is to be simple and sweet.

All the fashion conscious guys out there need not get disappointed. Monsoon allows you too, to be in style and present the fashionable side to all your folks. College going lads can pick up varied colors of ‘Crocs’ to add color and variety to their wardrobe. Three-fourths or shorts can make life easier and comfortable for men.

So all you trendy people have certainly picked up some latest fashion tips to wear the right kind of clothes and impress the people of the opposite sex at college!!! Go simple and enjoy the season of fun and frolic.

Fashion trends…

Trends in fashion keep changing by the tick of the clock… Here goes the tick and there the trend changes. With every next Bollywood film, actors set new trends. Be it the famous hairstyle of yesteryear actress ‘Sadhna’ or the ‘Pooh’ look of Kareena Kapoor sported by young teenage girls. All these trends become the talk of the town immediately after its conception.
College goers tend to look up to Bollywood celebs when it comes to aping trends. With a change in the look carried by their favorite actor, people change their way of styling as well.

Fashion trends have become the hottest topic of discussion among teenage girls in particular and the Gen-X in general. To carry the perfect look according to the ongoing trends is what every youngster strives for. The ‘in thing’ is of great importance to all of us. Our wardrobe receives repeated ‘make overs’ with new clothes being dumped by us every now and then.

Even change in season changes the kind of clothes we wear. Summer brings with itself floral prints and comfy fabric to beat the sweltering heat. Girls and guys prefer to keep it short and sweet with the advent of this season.
Winter definitely changes the amount and type of clothes one wears. Layered clothing, cardigans and pull overs of varied colors and styles replace the stringy clothing.
With monsoon showing its true colors, one prefers to dress as simply with the least amount of bling and fashion. This quite pleasant but tacky season restricts people from wearing fashionable clothes, as those raincoats seem to occupying the important place.
Fashion trends keep altering, but one must wear the kind of clothes which compliment their looks and body type well. Following trends blindly only invites an uncomfortable look. One should keep tab of the latest trends and then modify according to the needs and requirements of one’s own structure.

Fashion faux pas…

Picture this: A hot summery day, the mammoth golden ball has been burning the earth with scorching heat. You step out of you house in hot pants and a tank top to hit the streets and beat the heat. Suddenly you encounter a lady dressed in jet black leather jacket and fitted black pants. I’m sure this would have definitely left you sweaty. This is what we call a ‘fashion faux pas’.

Fashion faux pas are a common sight everywhere. Be it the girl next door or the biggest ramp models, all of them are victims of fashion faux pas. From the hideous looking hair dos to ill fitted dresses we’ve seen the fashion stars showcasing all of these.

At most of the occasions such celebrities become the attraction of the cameraman’s lenses. Here a celebrity carrying the wrong look and there goes the lense to capture the pose. Even the most ravishing stars fall prey to such mishaps. From Kajol to Victoria Beckham, neither the Bollywood nor the Hollywood industry has been spared.

Even in our daily lives, in our college campuses and at common hang out joints we encounter girls and guys committing fashion faux pas. Such people sometimes become the ‘joke’ among the hoity-toity cream crowd. Trends keep changing by the day, by the season but one must indulge into fashion in which one is comfy and confident. Such garments when carried by a person certainly portray an image of beauty, elegance and poise.

A sight seen very commonly spotted, a sight which one and all try hard to avoid…fashion faux pas.

Fashion goes local!!!

Dolce and Gabbana, Mango, Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Levi’s and the list is endless. Be it clothes, watches, perfumes or sunglasses, brands have made its stand in every possible area of fashion. One feels on the ninth heaven when one is carrying a Gucci bag or wearing the very stylish and expensive ‘Guess’ watch. It definitely adds value to our wardrobe and gives us the required ‘high’ to our class. But have you tried hoarding the ‘streets’ of Mumbai? The streets full of little road side, trendiest shops. Streets full of life, full of people, streets full illumination, streets full of the most fashionable stuff to pick from.

Buying stuff from the road side is an experience in itself. The constant ‘halla bol’ by the sellers on one side and the haggling sounds of the buyers, in unison, perfectly brings the picture of a ‘street bazaar’ live in front of our eyes. From the ‘Saronjini Nagar’ in Delhi, to the famous ‘Colaba Causeway’ in Mumbai, every nook and corner of India has a prominent street shopping area which serves to the visitors, the specialty of a particular state or region. Be it the chunky junk jewelry, to the choicest of clothes… you ask for it and you get it.

Highlighted by the ‘low price’ aspect, shopping on the streets invites the saving of a lot of those notes in your wallet giving you the trendiest stuff within the capacity of your pocket.
Shopping on the streets also gives you a walk through the liveliest track giving you the much needed change in the routine lifestyle and adding huge amounts fun and frolic.

Street shopping can be lot of fun if one is accompanied by the right kind of people at the right kind of place with no fixed agenda.

Grab on some accessories girl!!!

Got your clothes in place? Got the right figure to carry the chic outfits that you desire to wear? Have you griped on to the most stylist clutches and wedges too? Does this seem to be the most apt combination to make you look modish? If yes, then I must correct you all…You have missed the most imperative part of you. Accessories!!!
Clothes certainly encompass the significant part, but accessories add the bling to the overall look one carries. Accessories as the name suggests, prettifies and embellishes the overall look that you clasp. It not only adds the tangy tinge to the outfit but also creates a striking feature to your persona.

Huge hoops, subtle studs, crinkling anklets, tinkling armlets, chunky neck pieces, and vibrant bangles are some of the ways perfect ways to go, to load yourself with some of the junkiest jewelry. Huge waist belts, smart hats, shielding sunglasses, cute petite clips, neat watches and silky scarves are some of the definite add-inns for your closet. Doesn’t this turn out to be a humungous shopping list to add to your next shopping agenda. Certainly too many things to accessorize yourself with, rendering you as the ideal beauty.

Pick up a plain, neon colored t-shirt with a pair of jeans and teem it up with some classy and refined trimmings and capture the most happening and fashionable look for every day, every occasion, and every season. The simplest of clothing can give you the most ravishing look with the help of the right accessories. So get hold of some hard cash and attack the streets to hoard in some of the trendiest looking accessories for yourself.

The Indian Diva…

Picture this: A simple innocent woman steps out, draped in a six yard long piece of cloth, exuding elegance and poise. Doesn’t this bring the image of a typical Indian femme to your mind? Certainly, it does.
India, the land of culture, the land of art, fashion definitely stands out as a country of elegant couture. The ‘saree’ being the epitome of the traditional wear, the Indian woman carries this convoluted outfit with sheer modishness.

Bollywood divas like Aishwarya Rai and Rani Mukherjee to name a few, set the ramp on fire with their sizzling beauty exaggerated by the saree.
Though the influence of the West in the style of dressing of these stars seems very prominent, nothing can ever replace this ever existent, classy traditional Indian outfit.
This six yard cloth piece is not only a mere outfit but also an ornament which adorns the Indian woman, making her look as a complete alluring lady. It is a symbol of pliability, continuity and timelessness of our age old tradition.

Keeping in line with the diversity that India showcases, there is a wide range of gorgeous saree’s from various regions of the country. Be it the ‘Bandhani’ from the West or ‘Paithani’ from Maharashtra or ‘Gadwal’ from Banaras or the ‘Kanjeevaram’ from the South, all of these have their individual uniqueness and importance which adds to the overall flavor and essence to enhance the splendor of the Indian woman.
Internationally too, the Indian saree has acquired its value with branding making its mark in this branch of the fashion industry. With the growth of fashion festivals and fashion week’s the traditional Indian saree has attained various modifications making it malleable to the modern ongoing trends.

Are you ready to beat the heat? Summer’s back here!!!

The end of the winter sets in the scorching and searing season of summer. Rising mercury levels have not only changed the face of streets of the city but they call for a change in the wardrobes of people. Warm and comforting pullovers, sweaters and cardigans take a back seat and strappy; stringy spaghettis are seen jutting out of the wardrobe.
This sweltering summer, presents a choice of varied colors to the trendy women out there. White being the fundamental and the ever green, eternally classy color, pastel shades like turquoise, powder blue,emerald, lavender and fuchsia should definitely grab that empty place in your wardrobe.
Cotton is certainly the way to go. Nothing can stop you from venturing out in the blazing sun when you are decked up in this comfy, cozy fabric.
Polka dots, floral prints and stripes teemed up with the right kind of color would just be the perfect way to go.
Plain basic tang tops with the shortest of hot pants and all this coupled up with the trendiest, wackiest flip flops is definitely just the right attire for all you petite girls. Flaunt your sexy legs but beware about that tan which is chasing you every second. Don’t forget to get yourself dipped in sunscreen lotion before you step out of the sun safe home!!!After all the basic stuff, its time to emboss and embellish yourself with some color rich accessories. This summer do not forget to carry those multihued hand bags and some junk jewelry to add the exact flavor to accolade the season of color, cheerfulness and frolic. Your best friend through this 3 month long season would undoubtedly be a pair of sunglasses to protect your mesmerizing, delicate, beautiful eyes. Set your wardrobe right, to enjoy the season of SUMMER and FUN!!!