The Season of Non-specifics – Shruti Sancheti

Shruti Sancheti’s collection

Tell us about en vogue summer trends…

This summer the focus is on non-season specifics, norm core, Bohemian-inspired, and retro looks. The look is minimalistic yet trendy, tribal yet au courant and 1970’s with a contemporary twist. Midis, jumpsuits, long skirts, spliced skirts, maxis, crop tops, throws and jackets in summer fabrics like linen, khadi, cotton, summer silk ,neoprene are popular. Detailing like zippers, pockets, fringes along with tribal embroidery, tie n dye, and ombre dyeing are extremely popular. Accessories like metallic sunglasses, interesting neckpieces, belts, and sneakers and brogues are trending this summer.

What fabrics, colour palette, prints and silhouettes in Indian couture will do the rounds this season?

Fabrics which allow you to breathe like linen, organic cotton, summer silkier silk and all natural fabrics will be popular to beat the sultry balmy weather. Colours from pretty pastels like blush, custard, peach, mint green, to warm hues like marsala, olive, indigo, and watermelon red all will be popular. Block print, tie n dye, screen print, and digital prints will be extremely popular too; lastly, silhouettes like wide-legged pants, spliced skirts, long flowy skirts, maxis, midis and jumpsuits will be trending high.

Shruti Sancheti’s collection

What went behind making of your latest collection?

My collection ‘Nomadistaan’ is about the global woman living out of suitcases but feels trapped in urban confines of the modern world. Her soul is nomadic but her outlook is totally global; she wants to flaunt a bit of her legacy and culture down her sleeves. The styling of the collection is contemporary but the look is Bohemian.

Tell us about a usual day in your life…

I start the day with going to the gym to undo the damages of the previous day. Then it is working till 2pm after which I have lunch and again at about 3.30 pm its work time till 6.30 pm. After that my evenings are devoted to my family and friends. However, I live out of suitcases so this stability is always a temporary phenomenon and when I travel, which is very often, routine takes a back seat.

Shruti Sancheti’s collection

What would Shruti Sancheti’s woman look like?

My woman is an old-school one trapped in this au courant world. She believes in the unsurpassed legacy of weaves, textiles and crafts and wears timeless clothes, which have understated luxury and restrained opulence. She is astute, ferociously proud of her heritage and yet expresses her femininity and elegance through her distinct yet restrained dressing.

What inspired you to make this collection?

My love for travel, love for rich crafts, love for colours and most of all love for Bohemian and tribal fashion…

Furla launches #TagToGo

Furla #TagToGo

Furla launches a new exclusive project, bringing together the value of personalization with the culture of craftsmanship, which has always distinguished the brand as an emblem of Italian style in the world. #TagToGo is the name of the new service, which lets the customer personalize her bag on purchase in the store, with the application of an attractive nappa tag and choosing from different colours and subjects, such as a heart and teddy bear.

#TagToGo Alice Red Bag, Furla

The tag can be decorated with a date not to be forgotten, the customer’s initials or an emoticon in the shape of a heart, a star or a smiley, heat-embossed in gold or silver, using a special monogramming machine. Asia Pacific will be the first region to launch the #TagToGo service, which represents an extremely significant project for Furla—it is the first time that an Italian premium lifestyle brand completes its shopping experience with a customer-oriented service.

A child’s soul in a writer’s body

 

Tushar Upreti

While people his age love to get high on money and all things worldly, writer and blogger Tushar Upreti believes in getting high on life. His mission is to take small steps to a happy world, and in the process, he’s been working for the cause of children from the underprivileged backgrounds and helping them make the most of their ‘Days of Childhood’, which is also the title of his first self-published book, whose Hindi version ‘Chhutpan ke Din’ is the winner of India Media Festival’s Special Achievement Award in the category of bestseller in Children’s Literature.

Photo Credit: Flickr

“You will never change your life until you change something you do daily.” This quote of Mike Murdock is the way of life for Tushar Upreti. A graduate from Hindu College, Delhi University, Tushar went on to pursue Mass Communication from Indian Institute of Mass Communication, and went on to do regular 9-5 jobs in top media houses (both print and electronic), only to realise soon that his real calling was somewhere else. Tushar always wanted to do something for the society, but the turning point came when he met a group of underprivileged children at a friend’s NGO, who got the wheels moving.

Photo Credit: Flickr

Tushar ran from pillar to post, did days of research, and met hundreds of street children to understand what ails them and what can be done to make them live the days of childhood, happily. A great writer, orator and story teller that he is, Tushar started spending quality moments with street children both in Mumbai and Delhi. A series of story-telling session and constructive activities went on to finally take shape of a project called ‘Chhutpan ke Din’, which later became the title of Tushar’s first story book for children. The book was translated in English soon as ‘The Days of Childhood’.

Photo Credit: Flickr

Talking about the book and the process of writing, the writer, who has also written scripts for a couple of commercial movies and serials, says, “Although I did venture into commercial writing, the writer in me was more content and happy writing books for children. So, I decided to write stories from the life of you, me and people around. The book turned out to be an edutainment book, comprising of series of five stories revolving around life of children, across all states, cultures, religions and countries. The names may change, but the issues related to a child’s life are same across the globe, and that’s what makes this book have a global appeal.”

The Days of Childhood

The five stories in the book are not fantasy stories; they address pertinent topics including, health & hygiene, man-animal conflict and issues related to childhood. The book was named ‘The Days of Childhood’ for a reason. Explains Tushar, “The days of childhood are the best days of life; we all want to relive them. And at the same time, as elders, we want that the childhood days of our children are nothing but the best. At a personal level, when I would see a child begging on streets, it would ache my heart. I wanted each and every child, irrespective of his social or financial background, to have a happy childhood. And thus I decided that my first book would be an ode to children; I wanted it to be a book of the children and for the children. And that’s why without focusing much on the visual appeal, I tried to bring out the best content that I could provide to each and every child – content comprising of stories that would make children, smile. I want this self-published book to reach out to as many children as possible, and would feel honored if it made a difference in the life of children.”

Book Review

Penned straight from the heart, this book will make an instant connect with anyone who wants to relive the childhood days. The experiences shared by the writer through each story cross barriers of language, culture and age, and take the reader to a world of sheer happiness! An easy read, the stories focus on passing on life skills and healthy habits to children through interesting characters that stay with you even after you have read the book!

Tales of Benarasi Weaves

Vinayak Couture

Designer duo Asha and Gautam Gupta recently launched their exquisite handloom collection with much poise at Cavalli Café, Emporio Vasant Kunj, New Delhi. The occasion weaved layers of triumphant rustic eccentricities from the roots of Benaras (Varanasi).

Vinayak Couture

Asha and Gautam’s label, Vinayak Couture brought forth a celebratory bridal collection, with a colour palette as delicious as it could ever get; mango oranges, peachy pinks, lusty reds, emerald greens, pistachio greens, powder blues, buttery yellow, the colour of Ganga and more.

Vinayak Couture

The collection showcased a perfect amalgamation of traditional and contemporary aesthetics—aptly defining the modern bride of today. The textures were luxurious and patterns worth lusting for.

Vinayak Couture

The designers casted a brand new approach to the good old art of handloom; mixing the golden art with the charm of beautiful colours and motifs, their latest collection is also an ode to local artisans of Banaras.

Vinayak Couture

The fabrics used are pure tussar, Benarasi silk and jute net embellished with unique parsi gara, zardozi and kalamkari. You can pick your outfit from M-8, Main Road, Greater Kailash- 1, New Delhi.

Velvetcase Unveils Payal Pratap’s Collection Inspired by Japanese Aesthetics

Layered Japanese diamond pendant by Payal Pratap at Velvetcase.com

Velvetcase.com, a marketplace for global jewellery designers offering consumers a platform to discover and buy fine jewellery is proud to launch their new assemblage with the charismatic designer Payal Pratap.

Dainty Floral Motif Ear Cuffs by Payal Pratap at Velvetcase.com

The renowned fashion designer takes her designing abilities to a whole new level by creating and showcasing jewellery designs inspired by Japanese aesthetics for the first time ever on Velvetcase.com.

Japanese Fan-Style Diamond Ring by Payal Pratap at Velvetcase.com

The collection is a jugglery of colours, patterns and styles derived from elements of Japanese culture.

Japanese Floral Motif Diamond Chand Balis by Payal Pratap at Velvetcase.com

Her collection showcases an interesting combination of contemporary Ear cuffs, Rings, Earrings and Pendants. Each piece in the collection is crafted to perfection and is meant for modern women who are willing to experiment and have a bold and confident look.

An Exquisite Blend of Diamonds and Gemstones

Bracelet by Hema S. Kothari

Wedding is the most precious day in a woman’s life and jewellery plays a very important part. Hence, to make adornments all the more exquisite for Indian brides, Hema S Kothari unveils a beautiful Bridal Diamond Jewellery Collection called Bejewelled – crafted in diamonds, Burmese rubies and gemstones.

Earrings by Hema S. Kothari

The earrings, necklaces, rings and bracelets in this ensemble are designed both with contemporary and elegant taste, capturing significance of Indian culture in vibrant tones. Each piece is keenly made to reflect the essence of Indian weddings. The designs are timeless and could be used as heirloom pieces; each narrating tales of royalty.

Bracelet by Hema S. Kothari

“Diamonds are paired with finest gemstones to offer an elegant, contemporary bridal jewellery collection. It is a perfect amalgamation of glitter and glamour, which fulfils instinctive needs of Indian brides”, says Mr Akshay Kothari, CEO, Hema S. Kothari.

The varying colours of Indian and Tibetan arts & crafts

Dastkari Haat Samiti 2015

Jaya Jaitly, President of Dastkari Haat Samiti brings the best of Indian and Tibetan art at the 29th edition of Dastkari Haat Craft Bazaar at Dilli Haat, INA.

Dastkari Haat Samiti 2015

The Dastkari Haat Samiti is once again gearing up for its annual display of the finest handicrafts from all corners of India. The hugely popular craft bazaar has an added attraction this year—the intricate and beautiful handicrafts from Tibet, ancient craft handed down through generations of painstaking work and dedication.

Dastkari Haat Samiti 2015

The Dastkari Haat Samiti, now in its 29th year, is the brain child of Ms Jaya Jaitly, a renowned social activist who has dedicated four decades of her life and career to crafts and innovating newer ways to sustain craft and its people. She has also been a founding member of Dilli Haat, a single platform for craftsmen from the remotest areas the country to display and sell their finest wares.

Dastkari Haat Samiti 2015

Hundreds of items, the best of products of Indian and Tibetan artisans have been specially selected for the bazaar. This is also a great opportunity for the artisans to exchange their views at the Tibetan-Indian crafts and skill exchange workshop. The special feature every year is a workshop for International artisans. This time Tibetan crafts persons will engage in work with Indian counterparts from Arunachal Pradesh, Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh.

Dastkari Haat Samiti 2015

Visitors will also get to enjoy traditional music and dance performances. Traditional Ramdev folk singers from Kutch, Chhau dancers from Jharkhand and Tibetan traditional dancers will enrich the atmosphere throughout the day.

Dastkari Haat Samiti 2015

What- Dastkari Haat Samiti’s 29th Annual – Dastkari Haat Craft Bazaar

When- 1st to 15th January 2015

Where- Dilli Haat, INA New Delhi

Time- 11.00am -09.00pm daily

Entry- Rs 20

Shraman, The Ashok: Recreating classical Rajasthani Cuisine

Shraman

Ambience: Located in the heart of Delhi’s lush green stretch, Shraman stands coyly in a quaint corner at the majestic Ashok hotel. A rustic staircase with subtle notes of royalty, contoured by gentle pots of plants hanging merrily, escorted us to the restaurant. There was something very ‘vintage’ about this place. Wooden furniture embossed with intricate silver work were laid aesthetically; turquoise blue table cloths became backdrop to white cutlery and a grand art piece flaunting a gorgeous peacock , carved in meenakari work stood splendidly on one of the walls. Old-world charm juxtaposed with essences of Rajasthani culture made the whole setup beautifully intriguing.

Shraman

Food: This restaurant serves only vegetarian food, breaking the taboo of Rajasthani food mostly being related to laal maas, etc. Being a pure non-vegetarian, I was initially a little stuck up about the idea; but to my surprise, their varied options on the menu turned out to be pleasantly delightful. I started with khas aur paan ka sherbet—a divinely delicious mocktail made of beetle leaves; it was absolutely refreshing and a must-try! Usually, I don’t take more than 5 minutes to decide on ordering my food; but here, I was left spoilt for choice with so many mouthwatering names floating in front of my eyes. However, after much speculation, I ordered some starters—dahi ke sholey (cakes of fresh curd blended with crushed black pepper and chili flakes) and Shraman chappan bhog (an assortment of vegetarian kebabs). Dahi ke sholey was soft, slightly grainy in texture and downright delectable. The later one had a range of appealing kebabs made of cottage cheese, potatoes, chilies and more; my favourite was the bharwa aloo, which was stuffed potato cubes infused with cottage cheese crumbles, cooked in typical Rajasthani spices.

Shraman

For the main course, I ordered the stereotypical dal bati churma; it is literally synonymous to Rajasthani cuisine. You cannot miss to have this whilst dining at a Rajasthani eatery. This traditional nomad’s meal was brought to me moulded in warm, desi ghee. The dal was rich in flavour and the bati was soft in the center and stiff at the coating; thus, it was very well cooked. I relished upon this one. This was followed by methi malai mutter—a beautiful vegetarian dish that comprises of fenugreek leaves and peas cooked in thick, rich and creamy malai (cream). This was consumed with mutter parantha. By the end of the meal, I think, my whole pre-conceived notion on vegetarian food had majorly altered. I would recommend this place to everyone (including non-vegetarian folks)—if you want to savor upon classical, vegetarian Rajasthani food in an elegant fine dining setup then this is the place to be.

Shraman

My lunch concluded with lip-smacking desserts. I had to myself a plate filled with shahi tukda and a bowl of phirni. The bread slices in the shahi tukda were crunchy and well-toasted and the rabri was fresh, thick and super creamy. The smell of elaichi (cardamom) and occasional fragments of broken pistachios brought forth an ecstatic feeling. The phirni on the other hand was nothing extraordinary. Overall, I had a great experience lunching here.

Chef’s recommendation: With its many cultural influences, this place offers a varied selection of cuisines to satisfy your palate. Signature dishes like Saundhi Paneer Tikka, Shraman 56 Bhog, Paneer Lazeez, Dal Shraman, Gatta Curry, Jodh Puri Mirchi Paneer, Vegetable Lohla Puri, Sabzi Balluchi and Shraman Punch will leave you craving for more.

Find them at: The Ashok, 50 B, Diplomatic Enclave, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi

Call them at: 011 24672384, 011 24123593

‘Runaway with Me’ by Nisha Sainani

Nisha Sainani- Runaway With Me

The best journeys are those that answer questions which were never asked. ‘Runaway with me’ is inspired by Nisha’s travels to Turkey. This collection is for a woman who loves experimenting with new cultures, while having a strong sense of identity herself.

Nisha Sainani- Runaway With Me

Whether it is the motifs, silhouettes, or even the colours, they tell a story which contains a myriad of emotions. Nisha has always been a traveler at heart, as she believes that it is the best inspiration for creativity.

Nisha Sainani- Runaway With Me

Turkey, which has centuries of heritage and culture, as well as breathtaking natural beauty was a place, which called out to her.

Nisha Sainani- Runaway With Me

The collection prints include Nisha’s interpretation of the Turkish symbol of the ‘evil eye’ and also fun elements like the audh (Turkish guitar) and the signature dancing dervish. She has worked in collaboration with ZEMA-Fine Jewellery to also design special brooches for this collection.

‘Bubbly Banarsi’ by Chhaya Mehrotra

Chhaya Mehrotra for Wills India Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2015

Designer Chhaya Mehrotra presented a bold and lively collection, ‘Bubbly Banarsi’ for Wills India Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2015.

Chhaya Mehrotra Wills India Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2015

Bubbly is a little girl, who has grown up in Banaras; she weaves the spirit of the city with all its idiosyncrasies in her own set of experiences in this collection. Colours of sindoor, shiva, chandan and moksha—red, blue, yellow and white surfaced in this collection in different avatars.

Chhaya Mehrotra for Wills India Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2015

The chosen fabrics, silk, cotton and noil were made into garments, inspired by the local dressing culture; for instance, think of how a school girl or a flower vendor dresses up!

Chhaya Mehrotra for Wills India Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2015

Handicraft techniques like, block-printing, weaving and wooden toy making met to bring forth a collection that’s truly Banarsi! Born in one of the oldest textile printing families of Banaras, Chhaya Mehrotra has always been fascinated with creativity.