Luxemi’s top picks from India Bridal Fashion Week ’13

Tarun Tahiliani ensemble

Reasons beyond the typical runway shenanigans brought this years second bridal week, India Bridal Fashion Week ’13, to the spotlight. Several fashion editors unabashedly tweeted how hard it’s become to keep track of the unending fashion weeks taking place these days. While we agree it may be overkill and that gimmicks and celebrity show stoppers take away from the real focus, the fashion — we still can’t help but pay attention when bridal wear is involved (no surprises there).  And this round up of our favorite looks from ‘the week that was’ will make curating your trousseau and nuptial looks simpler!

Structured drama at Gaurav Gupta

Gaurav Gupta

The coming-of-age of the gen-next Indian bride can be credited to Gaurav Gupta to a large extent. His love affair with structured silhouettes and western cuts continued with this collection too — perfect for a cocktail party or intimate reception.

Draped saris at Tarun Tahiliani

Tarun Tahiliani

Tarun Tahiliani’s signature pre-draped saris stole the show this bridal week. We absolutely love their effortless drama. Just throw on statement earrings, pull back  your hair and you are sangeet-ready.

White meets gold at Rohit Bal

Rohit Bal

Goodbye sindoor red bridal wear and hello white + gold! The past year has been all about white traditional wear (previously considered an inauspicious color for brides) and Bal dedicated ample runway time to this color combination. We heart!

Layered salwars at Falguni & Shane Peacock

Falguni & Shane Peacock

There is a certain degree of flamboyance and opulence associated with Falguni & Shane Peacock designs and their bridal line was no different. We are lusting over the layered salwars with sheer overlays —  a welcome break from the ubiquitous zari-gota anarkalis. We’re also digging the Senorita vibe of the updo!

Androgynous silhouettes at Raghavendra Rathore

Raghavendra Rathore

Raghavendra Rathore is India’s final authority on jodhpuris and bandhgalas. He extended his revered mastery to androgynous women’s traditional wear with sherwanis, bandhgalas and gowns this time. We can’t wait to slip into these styles for an engagement party!

So there you have it —  update your desi wardrobe with our handy guide.  It’s all about mixing tradition with a sprinkle of irreverence this season!

Praachi Raniwala for Luxemi

Luxemi Interviews Fashion and Celebrity Stylist Kushal Parmanand

Sonakshi Sinha styled by Kushal Parmanand for Hi! Living

Fashion and celebrity stylist Kushal Parmanand jokingly refers to himself as an “Indian fashion industry fossil!” And considering he’s got over 10 years of experience under his belt, we get why (well, kind of!). His foray into the industry was one most can only dream of — he kick started his career with revered couturiers Abu Jani & Sandeep Khosla after which he moved on to working with Nandita Mahtani. Styling came knocking his way in the form of a Fashion Directorship at Seventeen India, followed by stints at L’Officiel India, L’Officiel Homme, Hi!Blitz and most recently Noblesse India. His stellar repertoire also boasts of styling Bollywood beauties like Bipasha Basu, Sonakshi Sinha and Sonali Bendre among others. We engage the stylist du jour in an exclusive tete-a-tete!

Celebrity and fashion stylist Kushal Parmanand

Luxemi: How did you foray into fashion? Is it something you always wanted? 

Kushal Parmanand: My foray into fashion was actually by default. I come from a family of two generations of engineers and they obviously wished for me to continue their legacy. After trying to pursue an education in computer science and management studies for two years, I finally landed at Fanshawe fashion school in June 2000 to pursue my true calling. I remember wanting to be in fashion, a designer in particular, since I was in 8^th grade. Rohit Bal was my idol then.

Luxemi: You have worked with some of the country’s top stylistas — right from Sonam Kapoor and Kareena Kapoor to Deepika Padukone and Katrina Kaif. Who are your personal favorites?

Kushal Parmanand: I think I have the biggest crush on Bebo (Kareena Kapoor)! She is undoubtedly my favorite. She is extremely easy going and a breeze to work with. Most celebrities today know what works for them and are quite fashion focused. Having worked with many of them editorially over the years I feel that working collectively and keeping common interests in mind helps get the best out of a shoot!

Luxemi: Who are some of your favorite Indian and international designers?

Kushal Parmanand: Wow that is a very tough and long list! I love the work Riccardo Tisci does for Givenchy couture. This seasons in particular; I am loving key pieces from Balenciaga, Monique Lhuillier and Vionnet while Elie Saab, Dior, Valentino and Lanvin remain eternal favorites. On the Indian front I love different designers for their varied focuses. Anamika Khanna, Rohit Gandhi and Rahul Khanna, Rajesh Pratap Singh and Gaurav Gupta are my favorite veterans. From the younger lot I am partial to Kallol Datta, Sailex and Nachiket Barve.

Actually I feel fashion is a bit fickle in that sense — every season you are bound to love that someone a little more purely because their showing tugged at your heart strings more than the others.

Luxemi: Autumn-Winter ’13 Indian wear trends that ought to be tried this season? Also tell us about the top colors one must have in their wardrobe? 

Kushal Parmanand: Monochrome continues to be a huge trend this season. Punk and vintage inspired fashion is also big. Think of smaller ways to include them in your traditional wardrobe. Red is THE color to be swearing by — not only is it one of our most traditional colors, it also looks lovely on Indian skin. Make sure to experiment with interesting updos and accessories for a refined look.

Luxemi: Style icons who carry Indian wear beautifully? 

Kushal Parmanand: I think Deepika (Padukone) looks great in Indian wear. She has an inherent grace about her, almost like royalty. Apart from her I think Kareena (Kapoor) looks her best when she is in a sari.

Luxemi: Your favorite picks from Luxemi.com? 

Kushal Parmanand: Laila Motwane’s lehangas, the coral wrap kurta from Nikasha,  saris by Neeru Kumar and jhumkis  from Amrapali are my top picks. The wine salwar with shell embroidery, Foil Printed “Club” Pallu Saree by Satya Paul and Flowing Net Anarkali with Embroidery by Kisneel are also great options.

Parmanand’s top picks from Luxemi

Parmanand’s top picks from Luxemi

Amrapali earrings on Luxemi

Luxemi: If one has only 10 minutes to put together an Indian look, what should be their go-to?

Kushal Parmanand: The chotu sari (one with a shorter hemline) is a great option.

Chotu sari by Nandita Thirani

Pre-pleated saris and sari gowns are easier to drape, making them ideal go-tos as well. If neither works for you, there is always the humble salwar kurta which has many interesting variations this season. I personally always steer towards a minimalistic look. Finish it off with a dash of a strong lip and a messy braid or updo — absolutely perfect when you’re on the run!

Sonakshi Sinha styled by Kushal Parmanand for Hi!Blitz

So take it from the man who knows best and make these quick tweaks to your desi closet. Trust us when we say that these simple additions will go a long way!

Praachi Raniwala for Luxemi

Luxemi + Anita Dongre’s Trousseau Shopping Guide

Image courtesy: Anita Dongre

Anita Dongre surely does know a thing (or two) about style. No, scratch that…the veteran designer could very well be the last word when it comes to all things fashion. Hence when we decided to rope in an expert for this trousseau-shopping guide, we couldn’t think of a more fitting name than her. So listen up brides-to-be — pay close attention and bookmark Dongre’s ace advise…it is bound to prevent all your retail anxiety as well as several bridezilla fits! We are already swearing by this bridal shopping bible, you’d be wise to say ‘I Do’ to it too.

Anita Dongre with Aditi Rao Hydari at Lakme Fashion Week

Luxemi: How soon should one start putting together their trousseau? How much time must one dedicate to it?

Anita Dongre: I would say that you should start deciding the colours, styles, designers, and the overall look that you want to wear for each occasion well in advance. Start putting everything together over the 6 months leading up to your wedding — that, I feel, is the ideal time frame.

Luxemi: Brides tend to go overboard with their trousseau shopping. How much is too much?

Anita Dongre: It’s never enough and the sky is the limit when it comes to wedding shopping. However, it is advisable to work on a budget for the trousseau. List down the key pieces you require for your trousseau and stick to the list.

Luxemi: 5 must-have trousseau essentials?

Anita Dongre: That’s easy. My 5 must-haves are —

1. An elegant anarkali
2. An embroidered jacket or bandi (also known as the Nehru jacket/traditional vest) that can be paired with pants, pallazos or lehenga.
3. A heavily embroidered dupatta that can dress up any Indian outfit in your closet
4. A cocktail gown
5. A set of sarees for both formal occasions as well as casual outings.

Luxemi: What are the top trends this season? Which colors are must-haves?

Anita Dongre: It’s the time to move away from traditional reds and maroons and experiment with a varied color palette ranging from neons, fluorescent, limes and peacock blues to fuschia, corals and dusty pinks. There’s a plethora of choices when it comes to lehengas — the mermaid style, A-line, straight cut and flared versions — with such a wide variety of cuts and styles, there is something to suit to every style sensibility and body type.

Net, chiffon, georgette and silk are the preferred fabrics for Indian bridal wear this season. Experimenting with unconventional saree drapes is also a trend that is fast catching on. So pair a raw silk bandi with a saree or a lehenga.  One could even opt for the lehenga saree as it’s easier to drape and very convenient to carry off.

Luxemi: Which Luxemi ensembles ought to make their way into one’s trousseau trunk?

Anita Dongre: Luxemi’s Scarlett Saree with Rich Gold Border, Gold Embellished Chantilly Lace Saree, Pink Anarkali with Gota Work by Nikasha, Gold Sequined Saree, Lehenga Saree with Thread Work and Brocade Coat with Velvet Border by Kisneel are must-haves!

Anita Dongre’s Luxemi picks

Anita Dongre’s Luxemi picks

Luxemi: Trendy pieces vs classics — what’s your take?

Anita Dongre: Your trousseau should always have a mix of both. The trendy pieces can be used for your cocktail party and sangeet while the classics can be saved for your main wedding day and reception. Trendy and classic pieces can also be paired together for an edgy yet elegant look. For instance, you could pair a traditional bandi (vest/Nehru jacket) with a gown/skirt or wear an embroidered jacket/bolero with a saree and so on.

Luxemi: Let’s talk jewelry shopping — do’s and don’ts?

Anita Dongre: Always go to a trusted family jeweler. Here too, list down the main ceremonies and outfits and match your jewelry accordingly. Invest in versatile pieces that can be dressed up or toned down and be worn with both Indian as well as western outfits.

Luxemi: Which are some of the best cities for Indian trousseau wear according to you?

Anita Dongre: Mumbai, Delhi and Kolkatta are go-tos in India. There’s my Anita Dongre Bridal store as well as Phoenix Mills and Palladium in Mumbai, multi-designer mall The Gallery on MG in Delhi and Forum Courtyard in Kolkatta.

Luxemi: Who are some of the celebrity brides one can take inspiration from?

Anita Dongre: Kareena Kapoor, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and Esha Deol hands down! The one thing they all have in common, and is worth taking inspiration from, is that while each dressed in tune with their respective traditions, the final look was not overbearing — right from the choice of the bridal ensembles to the make up; it all spelled elegance!

Luxemi: So what’s your parting trousseau shopping advice?

Anita Dongre: While everyone’s shopping habits and needs will vary, there are certain pointers that will help you sail through your trousseau shopping effortlessly. First up, make sure you have a list of designers or multi designer stores you wish to visit. Dedicate a week to visit all these stores, shortlist what you like from each of them, and then start buying. Always have a shopping budget and try sticking to it as far as possible!

Image courtesy: Anita Dongre

So there you go…let the splurge fest begin. And yes, you can thank us later! 😉

Praachi Raniwala for Luxemi

Luxemi’s Guide to Festive Dressing

Image credit: An Indian Summer blog

The festive season can be taxing for the fashionably conscious. With an umpteen number of Diwali soirees and weddings to attend, even the most stylish often find themselves in a fix over what to wear. After all, each outfit needs to be statement making, different from the previous appearance yet right on trend — all at the same time!

But you can rest easy as Luxemi’s got your back! We scour the runways to put together the top trends that will come to your rescue this season. Bookmark this guide and sail through the festive season in your chicest avatar.

Trend: Go for gold

Dressy and oh-so-festive, your Diwali wardrobe will be incomplete without the inclusion of gold. Opt for head-to-toe or gold or break it by mixing another color, this one is a winner either way!

Trend: Gold

Luxemi picks: Our Black and Gold Benares Print Lehenga by Mallika Mathur, Brocade Salwar with Cutout Applique and Gold Sequined Saree ought to be your go-tos.

Trend: Stylish in Shararas

While anarkalis, lehengas and saris are all good, we believe in taking a breather from them every once in a while. And shararas are the perfect alternative! So stand out in them this season.

Trend: Shararas

Luxemi picks: Our Raw Silk Choli with Sharara Pants by Nikasha and Racer Back Salwar with Sharara Pants by Kisneel are worthy picks!

Trend: Think Pink

Autum-Winter ’13 runways dictate a return to all things unabashedly feminine. Hence we are digging out all our girly pinks, you’d be wise to do the same too.

Trend: Pink

Luxemi picks: Look pretty in pink with our Powder Pink Sequined Saree, Coral Angrakha Salwar with Velvet and Gota Embellishment or Pink Anarkali with Gota Work by Nikasha.

Trend: Put a ring on it

Accessories can make or break a look. Trust us when we say that statement rings are the easiest way to spruce up the simplest of outfits.

Trend: Statement rings

Luxemi picks: We’ve got plenty for you to choose from — the Blue Crystal Lattice Cocktail Ring, Navajo Cocktail Ring With Ruby and Emerald Quartz, Gold Plated Pearl Ring by Amrapali and the White Kundan Ring to name a few.

Trend: We’ve got the blues

Blue is undoubtedly the season’s hottest hue — it’s regal, refreshing and head turning. Be is a brunch party or a festive dinner, it does the trick every single time.

Trend: Blue

Luxemi picks: Look no further than our Printed Saree with Applique Border, Blue and Purple Davry Saree with Crystal Buttas and Navy Georgette Saree with White Accents.

Trend: Pearl-essence

Sworn classics, pearl accessories and jewelry can never lose their charm. They are exactly what you need to sprinkle your traditional wear with a dash of elegance, poise and effortless elan!

Trend: Pearl jewelry

Luxemi picks: From our Faux Pearl Belt with Emerald and Ruby Quartz and Multi-Strand Pearl Hanging Earrings to our Multi-Strand Pearl and Quartz Bracelet and Gold Hoops with Pearls, you will be spoilt for choice.

So that should take care of every festive wardrobe quandary you could possibly have.

Here’s wishing you a happy, chic and safe Diwali!

Praachi Raniwala for Luxemi

Luxemi’s Ultimate Guide To Wearing Polkis

Sonam Kapoor is the poster girl for ‘pretty in polki’!

There is a good reason why no fashionista ever gets bored of her polkis. One of India’s most time honored jewelry techniques, it has captured the imagination of desi luxe loving ladies since the Mughal period. Simply put, polki, a speciality of Bikaner in Rajasthan, is a term used to refer to ‘uncut diamonds’. They are mined from the earth naturally and boast of no added frills, enhancement or synthesis. Synonymous with old-world glamour and royalty, there’s no going wrong with it.

That’s not to say that its antique appeal makes it outdated. In fact the Luxemi girl would say quite the contrary! Don’t we all have that one (or many) cherished polki set that can take us from a red carpet soiree to a traditional wedding with equal elan?

This week we bring to you the ultimate guide on making the most of your polki baubles, no matter where you’re headed! Also look out for our quick tips on maintaining and taking care of your precious polkis.

Polki set + Traditional lehenga = Wedding reception ready

Victorian Polki set

This Victorian Polki Set with Antique Finish will complement our peach Brocade Lehenga with Halter Blouse by Mallika Mathur  for a stunning traditional repertoire.

Peach Brocade Lehenga by Mallika Mathur

Rest assured, this beauty is one you can proudly pass down to your daughter!

Polki earrings + Sequined sari = Red carpet ready

Dainty kundan earrings

Luxemi strongly advocates the effectiveness of a dazzling pair of earrings. Sometimes it’s all you need to glam up the simplest of ensembles.

“Tied with a Bow” Georgette Saree

Our small kundan earrings are all you need to sprinkle some poise to the vibrant “Tied with a Bow” Georgette Saree and take on the red carpet! 

Antique kundan bangle + Flared kurta = Diwali party ready

Kundan Bangle with Antique Finish

A night of festive revelry demands you step out in something stylish yet comfortable. Thus this Short Flare Salwar by Kisneel fits the bill perfectly. Accentuate it with the elegance of our Thick Kundan Bangle with Antique Finish.

Short Flare Salwar by Kisneel

This bangle is a winner…you can turn to it jazz up your LBD as well. Talk about twice as nice!

Crescent kundan jhumkis + Anarkali = Engagement party ready

Crescent Kundan Earrings with Pearl Drops

When headed to a desi engagement party, you want to keep it casual chic. After all, you’ll be dancing the night away!

Asymmetrical hem salwar by Nikasha

So spruce up this trendy Orange Salwar with Asymmetrical Hem by Nikasha with our simple but graceful Crescent Kundan Earrings with Pearl Drops.

Tips on taking care of polkis

• Your kundans and polkis should be kept away from chemicals, perfumes or any other kind of body spray. Always slip into the jewelry 10 minutes after you spray on perfume.
• Store them in separate boxes or pouches and never stack them on top of each other.
• Since kundans and polkis are prone to moisture, store them in dry areas.
• It’s preferable to wrap them in muslin as opposed to cotton, as the cotton fibres may get stuck in the pieces.
• Warm non detergent-based soapy water is your best bet to clean your polki pieces from time to time.

So there you go… enjoy your beautiful polkis and shine bright in ‘em! 🙂

By Praachi Raniwala for Luxemi

Luxemi’s top picks from WIFW Spring/Summer 2014

A few super packed months of fashion frenzy finally came to a close with the 5-day extravaganza that was Wills India Fashion Week Spring/ Summer 2014. Fashion folks are finally breathing easy for a while now… until the next round of runway parties kick-start again, that is!

Finale at WIFW SS ’14

So, while we may still be revelling in the chicest AW ’13 styles, we couldn’t help but drool over the lust worthy SS ’14 ensembles that stole the spotlight at WIFW held in India’s capital city. And here’s what clearly shone brightest on the runways this time — a decided break from bling and all thing OTT. The pack of new designers who took to the forefront proved that understated looks are the new statement makers!

Here’s a round up of the must-haves that you should be making closet space for this summer.

Intricate embroideries at Pankaj & Nidhi

‘Grammar Ornament’ by Pankaj & Nidhi

Pankaj & Nidhi sure know a thing (or many) about luxe pret wear. Their ‘Grammar of Ornament’ collection was a tale of painstaking embroidered finesse and three-dimensional applique techniques.

‘Grammar Ornament’ by Pankaj & Nidhi

Oh, and that brilliant canary yellow hue had us dreaming of summer instantly!

Traditional weaves at Rahul Mishra

‘Kiss’ by Rahul mishra

Rahul Mishra has always championed traditional weaves and this time was no different. His contemporary and utterly wearable use of khadi and jamdani gets a decided thumbs up from us!

Modern-day glamour at Annaikka

Annaikka by Kanika Saluja

Kanika Saluja’s label Annaikka stands as the voice of the powerful woman of today. Her SS ’14 line continued this legacy. Infused with the neon pops and contemporary cuts, it made a strong and power packed style statement.

Sporty chic at Masaba

Masaba opens WIFW SS ’14 with her line

The classic Fitzgerald girl unleashed her sporty side in Masaba’s latest collection. We loved the interplay of bright doses of pink and blue juxtaposed with a monochrome palate. The sari worn over pants works brilliantly for a laid back daytime Indian affair.

Print party at Dev r Nil 

Dev r Nil’s breezy silhouettes

Dev r Nil’s collection was a master class in teaming sombre-colored clashing prints together. The artful layering of the flowy silhouettes gets our vote!

Structural drapes at Dolly J

Dolly J’s structured silhouettes

The Gauri & Nainika vibe aside, we love how Dolly J gave her silhouettes a structured twist. The monotone colors and clean embellishments lent the ensembles a fierce look, one we are definitely digging!

Dolly J at WIFW SS ’14

Sequinned drizzle at Rohit Gandhi + Rahul Khanna

Glamour unleashed at Rohit Gandhi + Rahul Khanna

Rohit Gandhi and Rahul Khanna stuck to what they know best — dollops of unabashed glamour. We are particularly crushing on the pants teamed with asymmetrical tops in pastel hues…we’d wear to a mehndi soiree for a welcome break from the conventional traditional looks.

Boho glam at Anupamaa by Anupama Dayal

Anupamaa by Anupama Dayal

The archetypical Anupama Dayal girl is all set to unleash the gypset within this summer. Vivid color, whimsical prints and nonchalant layering…what’s not to love?

Here’s to a super stylish Spring-Summer ’14! Until next season…

By Praachi Raniwala for Luxemi

Luxemi’s ‘Something For Everyone’ Guide

Over the years, style icon Sonam Kapoor has tried on different fashion avatars with ease.

Rachel Zoe said, “Style is a way to say who you are without having to speak,”  and she couldn’t be more right.  For the ideal Luxemi girl, getting dressed every morning is not a chore — it’s her way to use what’s on her back to make a statement about what’s on her mind! So go on, let the world know who you are, by choosing an outfit that tells your story and says something about your sartorial sensibilities in the process.

With that in mind, we put together a fun guide for Indian wear based on your signature style (or your fashion mood!)— feel free to pick your side!

Who: Glamour Goddess

What: Blue Chiffon Saree with Aqua Sequins.

This incredibly glitzy piece is a no-brainer. Wear it to when you want to turn heads as the most fashionable lady in the room.

Wear it with: Luxemi’s Silver Brocade Blouse by Wild Orchid for a complementing contrast.

 

Who: Bollywood Belle

What: Raw Silk Choli with Sharara Pants by Nikasha

Bollywood fashion is synonymous with catchy colors and dramatic overtones. And what better than this fetching Nikasha outfit to nail the look!

Wear it with: Statement earrings and hair worn loose. We suggest you skip the necklace this time around.

Who: Urban Sophisticate

What: Black and White Sequined Saree by Satya Paul

This monochrome Satya Paul pick is the epitome of effortless modern-day city girl style and promises a refined look.

Wear it with: This Navy Blue and Magenta Embroidered Flower Clutch by 5 Elements for a colorful reprieve.

Who: Mademoiselle Minimalism

What: Cream Georgette Sequin Saree

Look no further for an ensemble that provides a simple and pared down look with a luxe touch.

Wear it with: A simple chained headpiece is all you need. The trick is to grab attention without trying too hard. 

Gold and pearl headpiece by Luxemi

Who: Girly Girl

What: Coral Red Tie Front Jacket Salwar with Floral Embroidery

With its utterly feminine hue, flattering silhouette and dash of playfulness; playing the desi Barbie just got easier.

Wear it with: A traditional bracelet and dewy make-up. Ensure that the focus remains on the outfit.

Luxemi’s traditional gold and green elephant bangle

Who: Gypsy Queen

What: Red and Blue Deconstructed Bandhani Saree by Neeru Kumar

Flaunt your love for the bohemian way of life with this vibrant saree and its irreverent charm.

Wear it with: Layered necklaces,  a statement-making headband and soft braids. Peace out!

Luxemi’s layered gungaroo necklace

So go on, be whoever you want to be today. As long as you keep it stylish, it’s all good.

Praachi Raniwala for Luxemi

Luxemi’s Ultimate Exotic Wedding Destination Guide

Image courtesy: Anita Dongre

This is unarguably our favorite time of the year. Wonder why? Thanks to the weddings galore lined up, but of course! Who doesn’t love a good Indian wedding, and luckily for us, our mailbox is filled with invites and calendar already choc-a-block.

As much as we love the nonstop singing and dancing, delectable spread of food and OTT outfits of this desi extravaganza, there is another Big Fat Indian Wedding trend that gets our seal of approval — destination weddings! In a bid to achieve ‘picture-perfect’, no destination is off the cards and no exotic locale is being left unexplored. Trust us when we say that destination weddings are indeed the way to go. So, we round up some of our favorite exotic locations along with style notes on what to pack for each of these cities. Hope couples all set to tie the knot (and their wedding planners) are listening!

DESTINATION: Istanbul, Turkey

Perfect for: A culture-soaked affair

Istanbul has fast catapulted into a hot spot for Indian weddings and with good reason at that. Turkey’s largest city is perfect for a themed OTT celebration reminiscent of a grand Turkish bazaar.

Hotel extraordinaire: It doesn’t get any better than the Ciragan Palace Kempinski. A flamboyant time beckons.

Wedding set up at Ciragan Palace Kempinski, Istanbul

What to wear: Go for a hint of Middle Eastern glamour. Our coffee colored sari with beaded applique work fits the bill. Team it with a beaded gold headpiece and winged eyeliner to turn heads.

Nothing better than this beaded copper Luxemi sari for the occasion.

DESTINATION: Florence, Italy

Perfect for: A fashionable wedding

This charming Tuscan city provides the ideal backdrop for a champagne clinking, air kissing sort of wedding extravaganza. Look no further for a destination wedding that epitomizes classy and chic.

Hotel extraordinaire: Located along the Arno River, the St. Regis Florence makes for a discerning choice.

A chic wedding at St. Regis Florence

What to wear: Sophisticated chic is the look we’d go for. This black crinkle georgette sari with knit work border paired with a gold and silver blouse by Wild Orchid will help you nail the look. Finish it with polki earrings and red haute lips.

Black is always a good idea!

This blouse by Wild Orchid will complement your saree

DESTINATION: Bali, Indonesia

Perfect for: A beach wedding

For those who wish to exchange their rings amidst the setting sun and lashing waves, it doesn’t get better than Bali. Skip the traditional route and party it up as you take the plunge.

Hotel extraordinaire: The glitzy W Retreat & Spa Bali –  Seminyak promises a glorious wedding along the Petitenget Beach.

Wedding at W Retreat & Spa Bali – Seminyak. Image courtesy: Apel Photography

What to wear: Our white and silver gota angarakha will allow you to keep it casual and classic without compromising on style. The gold and red mirror clutch by 5 Elements will give the ensemble the colorful reprieve it so needs.

This angarakha will transform you into a vision in white

Mirrorwork 5 Elements by Radhika Gupta clutch

 

DESTINATION: Udaipur, India

Perfect for: A royal rendezvous

As clichéd as Rajasthan may sound, it never fails to amaze with its imperial and grand ways. If a  fairy tale princess-like wedding is what you’ve always wanted, all roads do lead to Udaipur.

Hotel extraordinaire: If it’s Udaipur, it has got to be Umaid Bhawan Palace. Regal doesn’t even begin to do it justice.

The Umaid Bhawan Palace Udaipur promises a royal setting

What to wear: Go unabashedly traditional in this gold leaf lehenga with velvet blouse by Malika Mathur complemented by a colorful kundan set and tikka.

This gold and green lehenga is the perfect traditional pick

You can also read more on the perfect Fall wedding looks as curated by Nishka Lulla here.

So, let the wedding season begin! We’d love for you to share your favorite vignettes and looks with us.

Praachi Raniwala for Luxemi

 

Luxemi’s top picks from Lakmé Fashion Week Winter-Festive ’13

Autumn-Winter has arrived and here’s the thing: This Fall you can be utterly glamorous or unapologetically understated. You can be flirtatiously feminine or take the androgynous route, if you please. As long as you stay true to your personal sensibilities and have a little fun while you’re at it, you’re good to go. And this was a fact that was whole-heartedly showcased on Lakmé Fashion Week Winter-Festive ’13 runways.

The shows aside, what also became conspicuously clear is that Indian street style has really come of age. The venue was thronged by some of the most fashionably dressed people from the industry (and not just necessarily the Bollywood celebrities in attendance) – think stylists, designers, buyers and magazine editors in the coolest designs of the season.

Here’s a look at some hot-of-the-ramp festive looks we are absolutely digging this season!

Nikhil Thampi: Go for gold

‘Indian Punk’ by Nikhil Thampi

This cropped jacket and draped skirt by fashion’s latest blue-eyed boy, advocates making some space for a gold rush. Yes, it’s a tad daring – but where’s the fun in safe, right?

Sabyasachi: Fit for a queen

Grande finale by Sayasachi

Clearly, Sabyasachi’s interpretation of the jazz-age maharani is effing cool! This unexpected but delightfully charming pairing of satin and sheer half-saris teamed with a Breton striped blouses aptly epitomized his vision, making it an easy favorite.

Anita Dongre: The new-age bride

The Jaipur Bride by Anita Dongre

Anita Dongre’s ‘Jaipur bride’ is calm, confident and independent, a far cry from her demure doe-eyed counterpart. She sips on red wine, sports a tattoo and even drives her own jeep! This look (need to get those dhoti pants now!) in a trending color for the season packs in just the right punch of nonchalant edge, making for a powerful statement.

Nupur Kanoi: Effortless cool

‘Eccentricity Tour’ by Nupur Kanoi

We loved the relaxed and laid back vibe of Nupur Kanoi’s collection, the industry’s latest sworn favorite. Interesting layering of smart separates and zipper detailing particularly resonated with us.

‘Eccentricity Tour’ by Nupur Kanoi

Easy to mix and match, you can amp up many a simple traditional ensemble with these standout pieces. Easy chic, if you please!

Rahul Mishra: Traditional with a twist

‘Sunheri’ by Rahul Mishra

Rahul Mishra’s handloom couture collection, ‘Sunheri’ was a master class in marrying traditional textiles with contemporary silhouettes. These pepulm blouses paired with lehengas and saris have made it to our ‘worth breaking the bank for’ list. They personify an utterly fabulous symbiosis of age-old craft with a modern flair.

Payal Khandwala: A balancing act

‘A Fine Balance’ by Payal Khandwala

Payal Khandwala‘s bid to provide the unusual has definitely found takers in us. These looks boasting of crisp skirts and jackets with exaggerated collars can be worn head-to-toe for an unconventional twist. But its real triumph lies in the fact that they are bound to shine equally bright as separates too.

Payal Singhal: Architecture meets fashion 

(Left to right) Payal Singhal’s ‘Char Bagh’. Ziyaa lehenga, Mashal lehenga saree and Rumana lehenga

Payal Singhal‘s line was inspired by Persian-style garden layouts and juxtaposed ancient architecture and nature with contemporary cuts and modern silhouettes. We love the combination of blush pink with earthy undercurrents, laud the wearability of these ensembles and heart those statement earrings!

Manish Malhotra: Perfectly pretty

The set up at Manish Malhotra

What made a fan out of us at Bollywood couturier Manish Malhotra’s show was his set. Aptly titles ‘Reflections’, the ramp was divided into two halves by a threaded veil as the models walked down simultaneously as mirror images of each other. Further dotted with a shower of lights, it was quite the sight to behold!

Until next season…

Praachi Raniwala for Luxemi