The Surrealistic Designer

Chhaya Mehrotra

There is something very strikingly beautiful about Chhaya Mehrotra’s simplicity in designs. Modern silhouettes, subtle color palette and almost-bewildered cuts make her clothes perfect for Indian women. She shares a slice of her beautiful journey with The Lifestyle Potpourri…

How do you start your day?

The first thing I do is switch off the alarm and get that extra 15 minutes of sleep! After waking up, I glance through the newspaper with a morning cuppa of green tea and spend some time with the kids before we finish breakfast and pack for the day at factory. Breakfast is the time where, me and my husband plan out the entire day.

What shaped your outlook as a designer during your formative days?

My origins are rooted in Banaras and the variety of exposure I had across all platforms in the domestic textile industry right after NIFT molded my creative realm as a designer—from hand block printing to digital printing, hand embroidery to computerized embroidery, and designing for ethnic wedding wear to designing furnishing fabrics for Heimtextil, or high-end fashion fabrics for Texworld Paris; I knew my biggest strength lies in versatility. I take my education and experiences as the alphabet…what I write with it depends on my mood and requirement!

Chhaya Mehrotra

What inspires you to create newer designs?

Inspiration could be from almost anything. It could be a faint memory of childhood or a poem that I wrote. Sometimes it’s a place or a craft, and sometimes it could be a conversation with a kid or a friend. But inspiration isn’t enough to keep you going; it’s the instant mood lift you get when you see a sketch perfectly turned out into a garment—that excites me to create newer designs more than anything else.

Tell us an anecdote that has been consequential in your journey as a designer…

We had shifted to Noida from Banaras mainly because of family business. I just started with three tailors for my label and did exhibitions often; I was doing decent business. However, one day a long-lost family friend walks into our factory for some work and instead looks at my collection and threw a barrage of questions at me—“Why don’t you participate in fashion weeks?” and etc… On that guest’s insistence we applied and got the required membership; this was 2011. Looking at how our label is positioned now, you bet this anecdote was consequential!

Chhaya Mehrotra

Who is your favourite designer and why?

How can you pick one when it’s a sea of stunning work out there!
Amongst international designers I like Stella McCartney and Ted Baker’s creations—their sense of colour palette is very intense. Amongst Indian designers, A&T and Rajesh Pratap Singh are my favorites for their perfect approach to minimalism; Ritu Kumar inspires me for her timeless appeal to every piece of clothing; whereas Sabyasachi has touched my heart with the grandeur of detailing in his work; I also admire Rahul Mishra for the magic he created with wool, and Rajdeep Ranawat for the perfection he can bring to any cloth with a riot of colours. Lastly, I am very fond of Raw Mango and Anavila because their simple work can exude a whole lot of beauty!

Five must-haves in a woman’s wardrobe…

A handloom saree, crisp white shirt, pair of blue denims, nice perfume and an all-purpose shift dress

Amrit Kaur’s Fascination with Retro

Amrit Kaur’s Collection

Speaking of retro trends of the season…

This season is all about return of the retro in modern style. Swooping bellbottoms, tightly-fit tops, and psychedelic prints—everywhere we look, the 1970s style is back in heavy rotation with touches of contemporary style. For instance, flared pants are given a modern look by teaming it up with crisp white shirts or a crop tops; also, take note of oversized sunglasses, polka-dotted hair accessories, bright floral prints and more.

Tale of fabrics, color palette, prints and silhouettes…

For this summer, I have played with cotton silk, chiffon, chanderi and blend of cotton and raw silk. The fabrics portray a palette of bright colours and prints. With vibrant pop colours such as yellow, orange, green, purple, blue and red taking the center stage, I have played very strategically with bold prints and floral prints to make my garments look more fun and lively. I used floral-roses to cast hints of feminineness, and tropical prints, wild flowers along with long leafs with subtle colors and geometric prints to recall disco elements in crop tops, blouses, sheer capes, mid-cuff skirts, pencil-cut skirts, short dress and pantsuits for woman.

Amrit Kaur’s Collection

What went behind making of your latest collection?

Love of retro and love of summer went behind conceptualizing this collection. Movies like American hustle and TV shows like the 70’s show got me really inspired.

Tell us about your fascination with the good-old 70s fashion…

70’s fashion is a statement to be bold, fun and joy. Pop colors, bold prints, high-waisted flared trousers, symmetry and hints of disco gold on jumpsuits, capes, and dresses often bring out the hippie in you. I am in love with this unpretentious and fearless style statement. Rugged hairdos, statement headgears, Bohemian scarfs, oversized hats and big sunnies always arrest my attention.

Amrit Kaur’s Collection

The muse…

The whole look and energy of 70’s era inspired me; the era reminds me of times that were hassle-free, fun, optimistic and unpretentious in terms of fashion. The pop culture, disco trends and hippies really stood out amidst two oil crisis movements, the end of the Vietnam War and suffering economy. The 70’s were a time of beauty and freedom, when femininity was pushed forward. Bold prints and vibrant colors has always been my favorite but 70’s also give us bold flashy gold look—think of big loops, jewelry and belts.

Future plans?

Right now I am working on my new collection for autumn/winter 2015-16 in which I am taking further my retro theme in winter style making more of coats, jackets and sheer dresses. Rest all is a surprise (she smiles).

Western Influences on Indian Fabrics

Soltee AW15

What happens when the European art meets Indian vibrancy? Well, it creates something that is soothing to your eyes and worthy of everyone’s attention. The incredible vases inspire our latest collection. No matter what form they are, they are artful and each one has a story to tell. Inspired by the delicacy, art and class of vases, the House of Soltee by couturier Sulakshana Monga presents its new Autumn/Winter 2015 collection.

Soltee AW15

Abiding by our philosophy of ‘beauty is in details’, our brand new collection has pieces flaunting detailed embroidery and pattern. Expect breezy dresses to strong silhouettes, and backless gowns to drapes this season; AW15 collection is anything but narrow. The beautiful natural floral prints are blended with Indian sensibilities, casting an exotic look to the collection.

Soltee AW15

We have played around with International watercolors from genres of rose pink, champagne, beige, subtle peaches, olives and hues of oranges. Giving shape to the outfit are fluid fabrics like net, rayon crepes and cotton. The collection is perfect amalgamation of Indo-Western classic fusions intricately embroidered with unique classic methods of asymmetric detailing on gowns, lehengas and dresses.

The Inner Shift by Amy Billimoria

Amy Billimoria

A contemporary line of Spring Summer 2015, this collection draws inspiration from the evolution of higher levels of consciousness and is a strong portrayal of the self within.

Amy Billimoria

An eclectic array of exaggerated shoulder details, draped rose textures on linen palazzos and intricate texture details on sheer shirts, this line by fashion designer, Amy Billimoria portrays strong clean cuts, emphasizing the various moods of the contemporary woman of today.

Amy Billimoria

Cool fabrics in linen and viscose blends are used for various styles in palazzos, jumpsuits, knee-length dresses in a subtle colour palette of whites, pale blues, peaches and mints. Princess prints and floral depictions in textures and prints are predominant.

CaratLane.com reveals Fleur collection

Fleur Collection by CaratLane.com

Floral Designs have always been in fashion for their timeless appeal and their alluring designs have often captivated hearts of women. Discovering the epitome of enchantment, CaratLane.com has revealed its luxurious assortment of floral jewellery this season.

Fleur Collection by CaratLane.com

Known as Fleur, the collection draws inspiration from a variety of buds. Through this collection, CaratLane.com offers its customers the most enchanting pieces of floral jewellery. The collection has been crafted to blend contemporary styles and modern designs to create magnificent pieces that will make you look like a true fashionista. The bold and chic patterns come in variety of shapes and sizes, from simple floral to elaborate array of pendants, earrings, rings and hand harness.

Fleur Collection by CaratLane.com

Each piece of the Fleur collection induces a treasure of ornamental image where inspirations are drawn from various flowers like Orchids, Plumeria, Pansy, Gerbera, Roses, Daffodils, Marigold and Tulips. The collection is a combination of all three gold where various colors of flowers are brought out through the yellow, white and rose gold giving them a dull finish to make them look subtle pieces of art. The collection is also studded with diamonds to give it an extremely classy look.

Bedroom guide for a newlywed couple by H5 Design

Brain Thompson (H5 Design)

Space solutions:

The most common problem faced is: ‘There is not enough space!’ Multiple requirements such as bed, lounge, study, storage, dressing and bathroom have to be accommodated in the same space. With proper planning, maximizing space utilization, dedicated function allotment and using modular fittings to your advantage, one can create enough space. For instance, use a queen size bed instead of a king size. Opt for wider side tables for better storage and circulation space. Accommodate a chest of drawers in the room. It can go a long way on saving storage space for shoes and bed linens. Take advantage of wall height and accommodate shelving systems. They can take load of books, decorative artworks and trinkets. Combine the wardrobe and bathroom. Excessive walls take on space and create more hassle than utility in small spaces. Use sliding shutters for wardrobes as they reduce circulation space required and provide more spacious wardrobes that can be wider than usual. Glass shower enclosures are more practical, space and water saving than bath tubs. They can be as small as 30 square inches in size. Large mirrors in the bathroom can give the illusion of space and be highly utilitarian.

Jan Showers (H5 Design)

Colour therapy:

Often, new couples find it hard to agree on a colour as women naturally tend to opt for warmer, earthen colours and men prefer cool colours on a palette of grey-black. Choose a neutral base palette to later add colour with accessories of your choice. Use light pastel shades of any colour. They are not too dominating yet add warmth and cool feeling at the same time. Avoid blaring loud colours like red or shocking pink. These can be added in moderation with accessories or furnishings on a neutral colour palette as well. Beiges, browns and wood shade teamed with white or cream is the most popular and subtle colour combination for master bedrooms of all ages. Pale blue, aqua, peach, lavender, ocean green, corn yellow can be a few good colours for a newlywed’s room.

Kelly Wearstler (H5 Design)

Lighting affair:

Lighting is the most crucial yet often a neglected aspect of design. With the right layers, function and mood lighting can be achieved easily. Nothing beats natural light. Sunlight helps refresh the room and is also good for mental well being of the individuals. Invest in a dimmer for setting light at the right intensity for every mood. It also helps with energy saving. Decorative lighting in the form of lamps, wall lights and chandeliers can add an unexpected texture in the ambience.

Timepieces from GUESS and Gc Watches

GUESS Dazzler W0335L3 – 13,900 INR

With the onset of celebratory season, rejoice with your loved ones and gift them something classy that could turn into an heirloom piece. Yes, I am taking about the lust worthy watches by GUESS and Gc.

GIUESS Wildcat W0333L1 – 13,800 INR

GUESS watches keeps up to its design aesthetic of statement dials, energetic colour combinations and chic designs. Keeping in mind the festive fervor, women can choose from gold and rose gold watches, while men can adorn GUESS’ bestselling timepieces from the RIGOR collection.

Gc Rainbow Python – 27,000 INR

For those who prefer classic over contemporary, Gc watches presents a wide selection of subtle and demure designs in rose gold and duo tones of sliver and rose gold. The Gc Rainbow Python makes up for the perfect Christmas gift with its luscious shades of green and blue, softly melting with purple and pink of the rainbow palette.

Creating magic with basic ingredients—Urvashi Kaur

Urvashi Kaur for Wills India Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2015

Urvashi Kaur’s Spring/Summer 2015 collection ‘Ziran’ digs deep into ethnic communities, wanderlust and incongruent cultural interests and journeys. Inspired by the nomadic folk of Xining, China, the collection focused on reusing classy fabrics like, malkha, khamir, linen with frayed edges, chanderi and matka, with the insertion of denims this season.

Urvashi Kaur for Wills India Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2015

The base colour palette remained indigo with occasional outbursts of ecru, black, orange, yellow, pink and turquoise. Subtle accents like, tassels, pom-poms, tapes and ribbons added to the eccentricity of the line of clothes. Also, for the forthcoming Spring/Summer season, Kaur introduced bags, shoes and accessories.

Urvashi Kaur for Wills India Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2015

Calculated placements of shibori and block prints ruled the dais. While the tie-and-dye technique spilled over from her previous collections, the silhouettes this time were easy and baggy in nature; slightly asymmetrical with a mix of kimono sleeves, culottes and palazzos.

Kylin Premier—an exclusive appetizing travelogue

Kylin Premier

Ambience- As I stepped into Kylin Premier at Ambience Mall, Vasant Kunj, warm hospitality and pompous ambience blanketed me with much love—a perfect ending to a rather hectic Friday! Me and my partner were guided to the rooftop of the restaurant, wherein small cabana-sort setups, placed neatly in sync with the layout of the floor awaited us. We chose a corner for us—lit by a candle and enveloped by pristine white drapes. The area was well lit, with balmy breeze adding on to the romance quotient. Music was varied; genres like, house, lounge, soft trance and techno were floating in the backdrop in subtle tones.

Kylin Premier

What I loved the most about this place is the copious presence of greenery. Small pots, nestling plants of varied kinds were settled affectionately at every nook and corner of the space; thus, enhancing its prana. Overall, it was a visual delight for me. As I waited for my steward to arrive with the menu, delectably delicious aromas of sundry cuisines filled me up with layers of gastronomical expectations.

Kylin Premier

Hospitality- Special mention has to be given to the hospitality department at Kylin Premier. Not only were they warm and spontaneous, they always wore a comforting smile on their faces, ready to be at your disposal at the drop of a hat. Not overtly persistent, they knew the thin line between being there for you and giving you your space to have a fine dining experience. My experience was memorable.

Crystal Dim Sums at Kylin Premier

Food- This place serves Vietnamese, Chinese, Japanese, and Thai cuisines. I love Sushi; so the first thing I ordered was a couple of Crabstick California Rolls, made to perfection. This was followed by Chicken Crystal Dim sums. Now, this was a first for me. The name ‘crystal’ intrigued me to order this dish and what can I say—I reached to gastro heaven and back. The dim sums were super soft; the coating was almost feather-like light in texture, the filling had the right amount of spices and it just melted in my mouth. Sigh.

Clay Pot at Kylin Premier

Further to this, we laid hands on the Yakitori and Robata Grill’s section. After much thought given to the rather sumptuous menu, we zeroed down upon Chicken and Leek Yakitori and Chicken Wings. Double thumbs up to the Chicken and Leek Yakitori. Now, for the main course we opted for a bowl meal, called Bang Bang Angry Chicken that comprised of piping hot spicy chicken with peanuts, spring onions and lots of hot chilies served on a bed of sticky rice. This was simply delicious. The chicken was soft and the gravy was slightly spicy—apt for a Bengali palette. Thereafter, we indulged in a Lamb Clay Pot. This is an ancient Oriental cooking style, wherein the lamb is cooked with radish, root vegetables, lotus stem, mushrooms and potatoes. The cooking process is slow and ginger, garlic, sesame oil, hoisin, star anise and rice wine are the key ingredients that make the dish so gratifying. This was accompanied by rice.

Hong Kong Style Mushroom Bay at Kylin Premier

Finally, dessert comprised of chocolate fondue that had hot molten chocolate sauce coupled with fresh fruits, marshmallows, warm and spongy chocolate brownies and some ice cream, placed adroitly in a platter. I loved every bit of the interesting mélange.

Kylin Premier

Recommendations- Do try out the bowl meals and the clay pot range for main course. And, don’t forget Sushi and Crystal Dim sums.

Menu @ Kylin Premier

Kylin Premier, T-302, 3rd Floor, Ambience Mall, Vasant Kunj, New Delhi.
For reservations, call- 011-33105340
Meal for two costs about Rs 2000 for two people (approx.) with alcohol

The Pink Bloom collection launched by Arttdinox

Pink Bloom tea set by Arttdinox

This collection is inspired from the subtle intricacies of nature. The beauty of flowers, leaves and buds are put together aesthetically as accentuating elements of the design. The range transports us to an era of regal living. The minimalistic design sensibilities juxtaposed with undertones of traditional eccentricities, makes the collection desirable.

Pink Bloom dinner set by Arttdinox

Floral artwork has been drafted and hand hammered, which gives delicate surface textures to the dinner range. The forms and shapes in the design are inspired from the traditional Indian belly shapes. The beautiful mélange of stainless steel and semi-precious stone enhances usability of the product.

Pink Bloom cup and saucer by Arttdinox

The colour pink of semi-precious stone, Rose quartz is highlighted in the form of a bud; it imparts a royal look to the collection with all focus steered towards the stone bud knob. Rose quartz, known as the ‘love stone’ invites love into one’s life; it is also known to lower stress.