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This Diwali, keep it stylish
It's about striking the right balance between the looks of a runaway bride and a plain Jane. Not that the look is difficult to achieve but you have to break certain made-up fashion rules. Beginning with the bling, it's not the definition of festive wear. Swarovski, zari work, gotta patti work are all fine but not a suffocating overdose of it. At the same time, keep simple prints, khadis, handlooms for post Diwali time. It's time to indulge, not over-indulge though. You need examples to understand it better? Here is the Diwali guide as to what will suit the occasion….Over to fashion designers who are more than happy to spell out the festive trends.
Strike a balance Know your guide: Joy Mitra is a regular at the major fashion weeks of India. He recently represented India at the Fiji Fashion Week, for which he was nominated by NIFT and Ministry of Textiles. The best pick: Add length to anarkalis to make sure they give a feel of the Indian gown. Only go for either vermillion red or bright fuchsia. For the grand Indian festival season, you shouldn't go for anything less bright. Bling factor: Heavy duty work is strictly not meant for festivals. A combination of light, uncomplicated work with bright colours will give your outfit a royal look. High point: I have done a lot of laces and net in bright reds and oranges. All they have as embellishment is a dash of gold. You don't require more bling than this to look ready for the festive season. Out of the box Know your guide: Preeti S Kapoor has got her label's presence felt not just in India, also in Sweden, Italy, Bahrain and Japan. She started her journey in the fashion world, eight years back and has been showing regularly at the WLIFW. The best pick: It's important to wear something practical in the festive season so that it doesn't impede while you are making all the arrangements. Go for a kalidaar kurta and team it up with a Lucknawi pajama. It will make for an out-of-the-box combination and will be comfortable at the same time. Bling factor: Swarovski is a rage in North India. I don't mind people adding a few to their creations but don't go overboard with it. It shouldn't add a dramatic feel to the clothes, just make them look apt for this time of the year. High point: I have made these crinkle kurtas which have beautiful silhouettes with minimalist work limited to sleeves and collar. They are selling like hot cakes this season. Back to the classics Know your guide: The fashion designer duo Rahul and Gunjan, is almost the veterans of the fashion industry with their label, Sirali, which is as old as 14 years. They are known for contributing to the revival of traditional crafts of India like block printing and tie and dye. The best pick: Keep it very traditional. If you want to stick to a safe choice, go for an anarkali suit, which has limited kalis. Volume will make it difficult for you to carry it. If you want to experiment a bit, go for a flairless lehenga. Bright colours, anything from magenta to royal blue to red, would work. Bling factor: Even if it is centuries old, but paisley work has an eternal grace. It's never out of fashion and doesn't add to the weight of an outfit. High point: We constructed a golden lehenga only for the occasion of Diwali. It has mughal motives all over, with a lot of emphasis on paisley work. It is light weight as no stone work has been done. Best of both worlds Know your guide: Raj Shroff needs no introduction, and the fact that he has been a part of London and Milan fashion week explains it all for this fashion designer. He loves to experiment with the hemline of the Indian wear and many other factors make his creations so popular on the ramp. The best pick: The modern Indian women should mix a bit of ethnic with traditional wear. The best way to do that is to team up an anarkali with a short jacket. Give dupatta a miss this time to add twist to your festive wear. A phulkari kurta with a straight palazzo is an ever graceful combination. Bling factor: Instead of embellishments, experiment with the cut of the outfit. Keep the hemline abstract; add pleats but even those shouldn't be much defined. Subtle zari work is enough to add bling. High point: A pink suit with a voluminous hemline. It's not loaded with stones but has beautiful embroidery in gold, making it apt for Diwali. The power of colours Know your guide: Pallavi Jaipur is a designer of the soil, she has worked extensively with the traditional craft work of Rajasthan and that is apparent in her latest collection for the festive season. The best pick: Focus on the cut of the outfit rather than on embroidery. Lots of pleats will even make an otherwise plain suit perfect for the occasion. Keep the hemline asymmetrical. Bright colours will certainly do better than subtle ones. Bling factor: Zardosi is in this season but instead of creating a web out of it on your outfit, mix it with resham work. Mix and match colours well and you won't even feel the need of bling. High point: A black jacket anarkali gown to be worn over a fuchsia pink suit. I have limited the gotta patti work only to the sleeves and hemline to ensure that silhouettes get highlighted. Bling shouldn’t take away attentiion from the designing of the outfit. ashima@tribunemail.com
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Wow weddings!
If there are three-hundred weddings happening in the city, how do you stand out amidst the already stretched out? With the set-up - a 100-year-old glitzy ranch replete with wooden antique décor or large chandeliers or fairytale ambient lighting or the flowers? Or button rose bouquets, lilies of the valley, all tied up with Queen Annie’s lace and purple Saffron Crocus? Or the food? ‘Cider-braised pheasant and pan-roasted quail, Top Chef: Texas-style’… that’s how one of the list goes!
“Of course it’s always easier to make your weddings stand out if you have the money to spend, but resources do not always guarantee a classy wedding,” opines Guneet Singh, managing director, Absolute Perfection. At times, the ideas take precedence over resources! Same difference If every wedding has a theme, none stays with the guests beyond a night. At times, the trick lies in retreating. Nods Shailej Teri, managing director, Plan My Eventz, “At times, anything that is literally different is appreciated. For example, one can hardly go wrong with ethnic weddings. We once had a priest recite the rituals in three different languages and that was more than enough to make people remember and talk about it.” “Ostentatious display of wealth is one thing and good hospitality quite another. Once a client demanded that there be first-aid, over-the-counter medication and quick transportation facilities available for all the guests, so that they feel truly looked after and secure,” shares Rai Deep Singh, events manager with a Chandigarh-based wedding company. Over the top Picture perfect venue guarantees good pictures, not memories; just as mind always matters over money and ideas over resources. “I once did a reception for this client whose décor budget for four to five functions was over Rs one crore, while the reception was for eight thousand people,” shares Guneet Singh. The colour theme included a regal combine of rust, maroon and gold. She adds, “It looked every inch regal and stood out but that was a lot of money as well. A lot of times people come and all they tell us is to use gold, red or fuschia and stop at it. Whereas in some of the budget weddings that we have done, some people have tastes and come up with their own ideas; we then sit together and decide.” Then there are the destination weddings that everyone has known for quite sometime now. “We once organised this wedding in Mussoorie with a Roman theme. Everything from the cards to the entrance to wooden structures at the venue were done up like that,” says Gagan Brar, manager, Wedding Seasons. She adds, “These days, in entertainment people prefer jazz artists and such bands instead of a DJ. With free-flowing currency, things are only ‘likely” to get played up. Says Rai Deep Singh, “At times, what makes a wedding stand apart is how much fun your guests are having. If there’s a good peppy crowd, the wedding pictures will always be different as will be all the functions.” Noteworthy!
manpriya@tribunemail.com
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The
‘in’ side Sukhmani With more people choosing hardwood or tiles for their homes, wide expanses of bare floors can make an interior feel cold and unwelcoming. This is where a strategic placement of rugs can help. They help anchor a room and define it as well. While decorating, using the right size and the right colour rug can add a dash of oomph to your décor. There are a few things you need to consider before you set out to buy yourself a new rug. Look around the room; is your décor modern or traditional? Make a note of the colour scheme of the room and the size. Think about how you will be using the room. If the rug is to be placed in the entryway, avoid using light colours that get soiled fast. Similarly if you are looking for a rug under your dining table, choose a dark shade. A patterned rug can also be a fantastic option, because a pattern can help disguise any dirt or small stains. If you are decorating a room from the scratch, it won't be a bad idea to choose a rug of your choice and then decorate the room accordingly. Contemporary décor: If you have a contemporary decor you can choose a rug that has stripes, dots or a geometrical pattern. A black and white zebra stripe rug looks beautiful in a contemporary decor. The whole emphasis is on drama and scale. You can use bright colour rugs in a modern décor since mostly furnishings of a modern decor are done in light shades. If the furnishings have a bold pattern then it's advisable to go in for solid colour rugs to tone down the effect. Traditional décor: A traditional decor usually has a mix of colours, therefore choose a rug that ties all the colours together. Traditional rugs will have floral and other unique patterns that give a formal look to a room. You can use a rug to define spaces, like a sitting area or the dining area, foyers etc. If you plan to use more than one rug in a room, make sure they complement each other in style or else you will end up with a jarring look. Rugs don't essentially have to be rectangle, try experimenting with rounds and ovals. (Sukhmani is a Chandfigarh-based interior and landscape designer) |
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Master
Chef Kalyan Kumar Jammula You think fancy looking dishes can be served in restaurants only? Think twice! For anyone can be a master chef in their own kitchen. Few vegetables chopped in a fancy manner, a dash of the right sauces and herbs sprinkled and skillful presentation could give you yummy results, visually appealing and delectable to taste. Here we have created a mini meal with mushrooms and veggies for you to make and then bask in the compliments for being the chef avant- garde! Baked mushroom & vegetable pate with herb rice Ingredients Baked mushroom Parsley rice Pommery mustard sauce Garnish Method Presentation (Jammula is a Ludhiana-based chef) —As told to Poonam Bindra |
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star track Gauhar Khan may not be a full-time actress but she has wowed us in movies like Rocket Singh and Ishaqzaade. She stood out in significant roles. Get to know more about her. Fashion forward I took part in beauty contests as a child and as a teenager. My body structure has not changed and I can still fit into my teen frocks! I would like to have my own fashion line one day. Family first I am closest to my mother and she is my biggest support. She has been with me through thick and thin. Among my siblings, I am closest to Nigar. I adore my nieces and nephews too and love being with them. They call me Gaulkhala. It's so sweet! Style icon Rekha is my fashion and style icon. I like the way she carries herself. Her choice of costumes and colours is unparalleled. On Nigar Khan We are quite different from each other in many ways. I always shop for her and she likes what I buy for her. She is lazy about shopping. We get along well and are close. Alice in Wonderland I just go off into unknown spaces during the day. I day dream a lot and then snap out of it. It is fun! I love it. I also love watching birds, butterflies, feeling the breeze, the rain, and stuff like that. I love nature.
A hit & MISS
They made fancy debuts and were considered promising but fizzled after a film or two. From Jiah Khan to Neil Nitin Mukesh, take a look at those who haven't lived up to their debuts.
Washed out Asin: She held her own opposite Aamir Khan and looked gorgeous. She seemed like a talented actress of substance. However, she got a few meaty roles even though she swept the debut awards. She has just been a pretty face in movies like Ready and Housefull 2. One film wonder Nargis Fakhri: Rockstar was one of the biggest films of 2011. She was extremely fortunate to debut in an Imtiaz Ali movie opposite Ranbir Kapoor. The stunner got terrible reviews for her performance and has not signed any movie post her debut. Out of sight, out of mind Jiah Khan: Nishabd was a bold and a difficult role to do. She pulled it off with ease. She had a bit of a role in Ghajini and flaunted her assets in Housefull. She disappeared for a while and has now returned to Bollywood with a three-film deal. Hanging fire Prachi Desai: Her debut film Rock On! was a big hit and she had a sizeable role in it, though Shahana Goswami deservedly walked away with the accolades. For a long time, Prachi had no release. She was seen in the lifeless Life Partner and has been the pretty face in Bol Bachchan and Once Upon a Time In Mumbaai. She hasn't yet got a meaty role and is not likely to be a successful solo heroine. Better luck next time Neil Nitin Mukesh: He made a smashing and a unique debut with Johnny Gaddaar. While his acting was good in Jail, the movie tanked. Aa Dekhen Zara and Players were washouts. He is talented. We wish him luck!
Gauri is the boss at home: Shahrukh Khan
If you really like the interiors of Shahrukh Khan's Mannat then all the credit goes to Gauri Khan because, according to Shahrukh Khan, Gauri designed the house.
He shares, "It's Gauri who decides what stuff to buy for interiors and I am not allowed to say anything. But as far as the office is concerned. I am the boss," said Shahrukh at the launch of a furnishing store recently. Gauri is an interior decorator and she is in joint association with Suzanne Roshan, who ventured into interior designing in 2010. The same year, they collaborated on their first commercial project together in
Vadodara.
Fatherhood is euphoric: Robbie
Feel singer Robbie Williams has described being a father as a "euphoric" feeling. The 38-year-old said he feels everything has changed since the birth of his daughter Theodora, reported a publication.
"I really do love it. I was worried before she came - I'd been a pop star since the age of 16 and I'd never done anything for myself and then all of a sudden I was being asked to take care of this life. "I thought I might be this selfish person but you just melt. The baby came out and everything changed, cosmically, spiritually, life, everything. I'm a new parent and I've still got that euphoria," he said. The 38-year-old's wife Ayda Field gave birth to Theodora Rose Williams on September 18. The singer also discussed the thought process behind the name Theodora, saying that he wanted to avoid ridiculous names that are usually associated with celebrity babies. — PTI
Awesome threesome
Aishwarya and Abhishek Bachchan's baby's picture is finally out and it is the clearest of the lot. She was snapped at Aishwarya's felicitation ceremony for a French
honour.
On a roll
Shahid Kapoor is shooting for a movie for the first time in months! He is excited as the movie Phata Poster Nikla Hero rolled on November 2. The movie is directed by Rajkumar Santoshi and Ileana D'cruz is his co-star.
Walk the talk
Farah Khan's interviews and stories are fun to read because she calls a spade a spade. Here she talks about Akshay Kumar, movies, acting and much more.
On Akshay Kumar When an actor commits to a movie, he must be there responsibly till its release. Shirish and I don't talk about this anymore. I don't think there are permanent tiffs and enmities in Bollywood. That is not the right way to live. Little ones at home My maid tells me that I am not strict with my children. I try emotionally blackmailing them and tell them I will go away. I also talk about who wants a share of my property and what my conditions are. They know what it means. I try to be the best mother I can and have a sense of humour to it all!
Safe distance Salman Khan loves treating his heroines well and is protective of them. He wants to maintain a safe distance from Kareena Kapoor Khan because she is married now and has asked Farah Khan to not give them steps in the item song in which they are too close.
Blessing in disguise
Sushmita Sen was stuck in London because she could not fly to New York for a charity event, because of hurricane Sandy. So she stayed there and met old friends for meals and coffee.
On a roll
Shahid Kapoor is shooting for a movie for the first time in months! He is excited as the movie Phata Poster Nikla Hero rolled on November 2. The movie is directed by Rajkumar Santoshi and Ileana D'cruz is his co-star.
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chatter box
A casual comment from dancing queen Sambhavna Seth has got starlet Sara Khan's feathers all ruffled!
The ex-Bigg Boss contestants even seem to ignite more sparks compared to the current lot in Bigg Boss 6. Reacting to an interview quote given by Sambhavna that the Ali Merchant and Sara Khan's marriage in Bigg Boss was a "gimmick', Sara exploded, "Who the hell is Sambhavna to talk about my personal life? Before talking about others she should look at herself. What is she, only a C-grade film item dance." Sara further lashed out, "I wonder if she made this statement to garner some free publicity.”
New arrival
A seven-month leap in Zee's Pavitra Rishta will see new faces on the show. Ketaki Dave will be entering the show as part of a Gujarati family.
Tracking love
The makers of Sahara One's Tujh Sang Preet lagayi Sajna paid tribute to the Late Yash Chopra by recreating his kind of romance in the upcoming Karva Chauth special shoot of the serial. In the show, Meera(Binny Sharma) realises her follies and her love for husband Aditya(Sushil Hinduja). In a song sequence, Meera, dances to a romantic song Ghar Aaja Pardesi Tera Desh Bulaaye Re from the super hit movie Dilwale Dulhaniya Le Jayenge and confesses her love for
Aditya.
Mystery unearthed
Karan Tacker aka Viren from Ek Hazaaron mein meri behna hain played the role of Krishna in special Diwali episode. He took more than three hours to get into his ensemble. He wore a dhoti and lots of different types of jewellery. In fact the talented actor confessed that he can now understand why women take so much of time to dress up. "Generally, if Jeevika would get late by five minutes, I would pull her leg but now I will not do it. I have used most of the cosmetics for the first time and trust me I didn't even know what are they for."
It’s showtime
Life OK's Devon Ke Dev Mahadev is a popular show that completed 250 episodes recently. The cast and crew were pressed for time as they had to shoot an episode so they couldn't celebrate the occasion. Producer Nikhil Sinha is happy because for two weeks now the show will air for 45 minutes.
Worth the pain
After a few unsuccessful attempts Dipika Samson aka Simar went for nose piercing. She always wanted to pierce her nose as she likes coloured nose studs. So, she went through the pain to get one.
We are 100!
Rajshri Productions' Pyaar Ka Dard Hai Meetha Meetha Pyaara Pyaara completed 100 episodes and everyone in the cast and crew is thrilled. They had a cake cutting ceremony on the sets.
Happiness abound
Ever wondered the reason behind Vishwajeet Borwankar's radiant smile these days? One hears the 27-year-old Sa Re Ga Ma Pa 2012 contestant is on the brink of 'daddyhood' as his wife is four months pregnant.
On Ashmit’s agenda
Ashmit Patel might be hosting Super Dude on TV but he's got other things planned as well. He is plans to make a film. He will produce and write it. He has bought the rights of an autobiography of a cricketer and soon will make it into a film.
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Astro turf
ARIES: Recognise your behavior and try to keep a check on your temper otherwise today could become quite tough. Drama, music and public speaking groups will appeal. Tarot message: Empty promises are certain, therefore try to put your terms and conditions in writing.Lucky colour: Sea green. Lucky number: 25
TAURUS: Use this day to rest and recharge your batteries. While health would be stable, it is advisable to be cautious when driving. Some people may be travelling for business or work. Tarot message: You find within yourself a fountainhead of a will power. Lucky colour: Red
Lucky number: 47 GEMINI: Be compassionate towards your partner and let him or her be absolutely frank with you. The presence of Venus would shower you with love, romance and passion in relationships. Tarot message: Do what is right and watch your best interests.
Lucky colour: Orange Lucky number: 36 CANCER: Health would be a matter of concern as the planets in your solar health house may create some problems. There may be a past conflict that could resurface and create some stress. Tarot message: You are advised to focus on professional changes. Lucky colour: Turquoise
Lucky number: 53 LEO: The day would focus on your adaptability to changing situations and also your own ability to change in various ways. Due to your new found confidence, some people may not be too happy. Tarot message: You must share responsibility with others before continuing. Lucky colour: Peach
Lucky number: 64 VIRGO: With celebrations and get-togethers happening all around, your social life would be hectic and exciting. Married couples would be worried about their partners' spending habits.
Tarot message: Think positive and be optimistic. Lucky colour: Sea green
Lucky number: 38
LIBRA: Business people may consider entering partnerships or joint ventures with like minded individuals. This would also be a good day to travel and get in touch with relatives and friends. Tarot message: You gain by being practical; don't be emotional.
Lucky colour: Mauve Lucky number: 27 SCORPIO: Some relationships would grow closer and more intimate. The focus of the day would be getting in touch with your true self and your own needs as compared to those of others. Tarot message: Focus on your emotional and spiritual place.
Lucky colour: White Lucky number: 42 SAGITTARIUS: The presence of the full moon in your own sign increases your sense of perception and intuition. As a result, you would be able to pick the vibes of others and respond accordingly. Tarot message: At work don't hold back anything from your employer.
Lucky colour: Golden brown Lucky number: 61 CAPRICORN: At work, avoid putting too much on your plate and postpone some things for the next day. Some of you may have to take a personal decision towards the middle of the day.
Tarot message: By applying yourself you can build great success. Lucky colour: Purple
Lucky number: 40 AQUARIUS: Memories, romance, feelings and emotions would be the focus of the day and would have long-term influences on your relationships and friendships. It is important that you learn from the past. Tarot message: Focus on the better to mitigate the bitter.
Lucky colour: Pale yellow Lucky number: 55 PISCES: Your competitive nature would help you stay ahead of others. Social activities would be highly encouraging. Stick to your budget to avoid financial constraints.
Tarot message: You have to push to succeed and your efforts will pay off. Lucky colour: Aqua
Lucky number: 59
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The year ahead
If your birthday is November 5...
If a relationship has been suffering because of a lack of time you have given it, bring it to the fore. Find a way to grab attention of your partner. What's going on between you is stirring up some uncomfortable feelings. The sooner you this, face the better it is. You can really take huge strides forward in your personal life with your energy being in constant progression. Solutions will appear to you. Don't take any personal engagements lightly. Certain delicate situations will come to a happy conclusion. Someone will try to condition you to have the upper hand; with an innocent face, be shrewd and you'll overcome this problem. You'll want some tranquility so will avoid crowded places and talkative people. You will be happy with your family relationships. Both gains and expenses will affect your personal life. Take care against cold related ailments. It would be better to postpone major decisions to some other day. You are Number 5 and Scorpio, you love competition in both work and play. Extreme sports will test your mettle. When it comes to love, though, Scorpios soften up a bit and are caring and devoted with their lovers, even if they do hold on a bit tight. Scorpios are also lusty in extreme. The great strength is in their determination, passion and motivation. Scorpios don't know the word quit, which is why they usually get the job done. They are a powerhouse like nobody else. What might seem bold is more likely a blunder; what you need now is to attend to the basics. You'll be able to get better results by working closely with a new partner who surprisingly, works better than you'd anticipated. A minor problem might ruin a property deal. However you manage to salvage most of your work. When you hear someone knocking, do not be so quick to open the door. There is no need to feel guiltySome of you are likely to travel abroad while others are likely to receive business and monetary gains through overseas associations. It will be an enjoyable trip. Financially you will be stable. You could be more vulnerable than usual. Yet greater sensitivity on your part is an excellent way to increase your chances for romance. Being gentle and tender with others is essential to avoid rubbing someone It's a perfect time to go to off shores for holidays. Finding solutions to joint problems immediately as they arise helps keep you motivated. Conversely, a partner's reluctance to face difficulties you both should be dealing with will eventually frustrate you. This could result in you drifting apart . Mood: Highly focussed, especially on the personal. Compatible signs: Aquarius, Leo. Lucky colours: Turquoise, Rosy Brown Lucky days: Wednesday and Friday. Lucky numbers: 3, 8, 16, 24.
Andrew Hayden-Smith (born Andrew John Smith, November 5, 1983 in Gateshead, Tyne and Wear) is a British actor and television presenter best known for his work with CBBC. He became one of the most popular presenters on CBBC. Again his down-to-earth persona was a hit with viewers and he became close friends with several of his fellow presenters, including Angellica Bell and Adrian Dickson.
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