Friday 28 October 2016

Wish you all a Happy Diwali (and a festive home wishlist of the most unabashedly luxurious sort!)

Hey folks, Season's Greetings to everyone- it is the 'festival of lights' season.
Instead of doing the regular clothes and shoes wishlist, we thought it might be fun to do a luxe lifestyle wishlist. So here are some lovely things rounded up from some of the best  luxury shopping spots.

We haven't mentioned the prices here, but we have included links so you can go take a look for yourselves.
We hope you enjoy our picks.

Do let us know in the comments section below, what stuff you are planning to pep up your crib!
If you are aware of any really, really, good lifestyle stores online, or even if you know of a fabulous vintage furniture and curios shop share those details with us- we love hidden gems.

And finally-

Happy Diwali & a Happy New Year!

PS- In the spirit of festivity we have considered some of the more ornate, opulent,and vintage or vintage-looking things-- not the minimalist/modern styles!


Classic living room Rialto

What an elegant living room sofa set, we are just happy to note that makers of such fine furniture are still around!Fit for a royal home.


FINE AND IMPORTANT silk HERIZ ARMORIAL CARPET, Persia

Oh, but you can't just whip out your credit card and buy carpets like these...
You have to first read up and then trace the current owners of precious antique carpets, and as soon as they appear for an auction - you spring on them. (Then you must outbid other fanatical collectors)




JEZEBEL Folding Screen

Add drama to any corner with this beautiful folding screen.
The antique mirror finish will work beautifully with a variety of decor styles.


Fendi Casa Diamante Bed

Gorgeous, posh and desirable! 
This is a slightly modern piece that nevertheless offers great opulence and can blend well with vintage pieces.
Make sure your monogrammed silk pyjamas live up to the bed ;-)



Antique French Giltwood and Marble Console Table

An exquisite antique piece, this console will add a touch of class to your little place.
Quelle joie...



Rare Roman Baroque Carved and Giltwood Mirror, with a Grotesque Head

Of course, everyone needs a gilded mirror!
This one might be too foggy to look in, but it's stunning to look at.



Antique Pair Venetian 7 Light Table Top Chandeliers Murano

Could there be a better way to light up your home than with this stunning pair of table top chandeliers?
Highly unlikely...they are in exquisite condition too.



Vetro Gold Glassware

Stunning handmade Italian glassware, the best wines deserve the best glasses!



Versace 5 Piece Place Setting (5 pps) | Butterfly Garden

Possibly one of the most beautiful porcelain sets we have ever seen!
It may trigger stark envy...




ZÉNITH NOIR CHANDELIER 24 LIGHTS

This wonderful chandelier with dark crystals evokes old world charm; yet it doesn't look too old fashioned and decadent...how curious.
We realize a classic brass and crystal chandelier would have gone better with the rest of our picks, but our taste is eclectic, and we have a feeling this piece will awe in any setting.




Jo Malone Lime Basil & Mandarin Luxury Candle

It's the little things that matter...
Nothing evokes memories like smells, make sure your home smells like heaven with this affordable luxury candle that also makes for the most perfect gift.





This is by no means an end of our list of desires, these are but a few of the many things we covet.
We haven't even started on wardrobes, art, kitchens and home electronics!

Luxury and beauty will always have the power to attract and motivate us to acquire the best things;
but, Diwali is not just about buying new things mindlessly.
It is about joy and new beginnings...It is about appreciating "wealth & luxury" of every kind.
The best things can't always be purchased.

A row of twinkling mud lamps, a box of sweets, a few sparkly crackers and some family time might be all you need to make you feel pretty happy!





Wednesday 12 October 2016

Wednesday Wishlist: The N*A*P edit (Fall picks)

Have we mentioned that net-a-porter is our favorite destination for Luxury buys? Yes, and that's not only because they have all the brands one could possibly want, great photos, great packaging, and great service... but also because we love Natalie Massenet (old video there) as an entrepreneurial Shero.
Now, of course, we have many, many luxury shopping websites and we will -going forward- do edits from those as well, but it's only fitting that we start with N.A.P.

Enjoy, and do let us know in the comments section below what you liked on N.A.P. and why.

PS- Of course, we love everything on the website but just to keep things manageable we've imposed a restriction on ourselves: if we had 10 minutes of free shopping to do, and we could choose only 1 item per category to add to our shopping cart- what would we pick? These are those things...

CHLOÉ Lace-up velvet ankle boots $1,291

Perfect boots for the season: burgundy is so right for fall/winter, and it's velvet- kind and gorgeous!
We are completely sold!
Note- you do not have to lace them up, there is a zipper (phew!).



LANVIN Sugar mini quilted velvet shoulder bag $1,855

Repeat everything we said above- you have to have something in velvet and in this color!
Plush quilted velvet, perfect party size...
Don't bother trying to match you shoes and bags, because Plum is the new Black this season.


PREEN BY THORNTON BREGAZZI Audrey printed devoré silk-blend
 chiffon maxi dress $2,739

A dark floral dress is perfect for fall and this one is beautiful, with the soft fabric and long sleeves it is ideal for styling with coats and boots- just lovely!


CHLOÉ Cashmere turtleneck sweater $714

This season keep your sweaters sleek and layered under your main clothing items.
Now this Chloé turtleneck here is so amazing it can be worn by itself, but it can also be layered under so many things without looking too bulky.





SAINT LAURENT Satin-trimmed wool tuxedo blazer $5,458

Fall is the time to sport menswear-inspired structured blazers juxtaposed with feminine pieces.They will provide all the warmth you need while upping the style quotient of your outfit about 10X
What's more chic, not to mention versatile, than a YSL (now Saint Laurent) tuxedo?
Can you see it casually draped over the shoulder of that preen dress above? Ah, so chic!




BOTTEGA VENETA Fringed cashmere scarf $603

This is not the best time for printed silk scarves, save them for spring.
This is the time for cashmere...this scarf here is exactly what you need as the 3rd piece to lift your outfit.
Long , fine and sleek - it whispers of total refinement in taste.





Okay! that was a quick 10-minute dash and we're out of time...
Tell us what you think.

PPS- As a side-note, do observe the lapel closure on the Saint Laurent Tuxedo - it is left lapel over right which is typically considered appropriate for men's clothing. Obviously, in Blazers (and presumably other formal menswear inspired apparel for women) the rules are more flexible...

Thursday 6 October 2016

The Hide & The Seeker: a guide map (of sorts) for the lost >>>>>>>>>>> Part 2



Okay, let's continue on our quest to try and answer the vexing question, 'how to be as true as possible to your values while enjoying what you love'?

Note 1- the key word there is enjoying not hoarding.

Note 2- This post is by no means a comprehensive approach to ethical fashion, it's just about leather and how we can be more responsible when it comes to the use of leather.

Just to make it clear- we love fashion too, so this is not a hyperbolic "you're a Basic B*tch" rant, this is about being true to your values and making a difference (at least in your own life) by simply being more thoughtful.

Nothing ever changes unless someone is asking the tough questions, so this process is all about asking yourself probing questions till you've figured out what feels authentic to you.
To get into the right mindset, ask yourself these questions and think through these points (below); there are no right or wrong answers, but by being brutally honest you can define your own moral comfort zone when it comes to leather. Also, think about how realistic your responses are; try to be practical in your approach.
  • Am I an animal lover?
    • Why is it that your pet (if you have one) is so precious to you, but other animals are not?
    • What sort of love is this? Do you just like the thought of going to an African safari to see the lions or do you also think about animal abuse?
    • Do you think humans are at all responsible for the habitat destruction of wild animals and therefore should be more careful now?
  • Do I believe that all life forms are equal?
    • Or is it about how cute/rare/intelligent a life form is? 
    • Do you feel bad about killing a rabbit but you think it's okay to kill a rat? Why is that?
    • Do you think humans are entitled to take whatever you want from the planet with no thought of
      the consequences?
  • Is it okay with me if people eat meat, or do I think everyone should instantly turn vegan?
    • If you are 100% Vegan, you wouldn't be reading this post because you would be off leather- right? 
    • Why are you vegan? Just for your own health? 
    • Would you advocate veganism openly? Why/why not?
    • If you are a vegetarian/vegan who believes it's okay for people who wish to eat meat to kill animals for food (because it is allowed in nature) then know that there will always be hide generated as a by-product of the meat industry. What should be done with those?
    • All animals die eventually, including humans, is it okay if the hide of these dead animals is converted to leather?
  • What do I feel about exotic skins & fur from wild animals?
    •  People don't eat exotic meat much, yet we kill these creatures for fur and leather. Is that okay?
    • Do you think it would be better if these wild animals were bred in captivity?
    • Have you ever spoken openly about this? Done anything about it? Why/why not?
  • How do I feel about lab-grown leather? 
    • Would you be willing to pay more for it if it was really comparable to real leather?
    • Or would you prefer natural leather and pay more for that? Why?
    • What is leather is made more expensive than gold and diamonds?
  • How do I feel about buying and using pre-owned fashion, and other forms of re-cycling to reduce wastage? Is that something you've never explored?
    • Would you sell your stuff but have a problem buying pre-owned stuff? Why?
    • Why do you buy things at all? Because you love something or it symbolizes something?
    • How deeply is your self-worth attached to things you possess? Why?
  • How far am I willing to go in order to align my actions with my values?
    • Would you feel awkward explaining your thoughts to your friends? Why do you care so much?
    • If you aren't willing to make even small adjustments to your lifestyle- maybe you don't care as much about animal rights or the environment as you'd like to think? How does that thought make you feel?
Okay, now that you're thinking honestly- hopefully, you've got an idea of how much this matters to you and how much you are willing to sacrifice for your own clear conscience and sense of integrity.

Next- here are some real life situations and the choices you could make depending on how much you'd be willing to give up.


SITUATION 1 - You are a new/occasional luxury buyer and you  are in love with a beautiful and on-trend leather bag/shoe from Gucci's (insert your favorite designer's name here) latest collection that you simply must have. You're seriously considering buying the object of your affection...
Here are the things to think about-
  • Why do you want it? Is it just a passing attraction?  
  • If you buy it and then don't wear it enough- isn't it a huge waste?
  • Wouldn't it be better if you invested in a classic luxury piece which you would get a lot of wear from? Something that fits well with your lifestyle and which you've always wanted?
  • What design aspect of that particular piece do you love?
  • Can you find the same design aspect in a non-leather piece constructed from satin/velvet?
  • Can you find it on a pre-owned store?
So the idea here is to know yourself well enough to not buy wastefully.Do not buy things that you would use once in a year; it is a terrible waste and a little pathetic.Love your best life today, use your best things now.
In fact, if your closet is full of things you have bought on impulse and never worn again- purge your closet. If you keep hoarding things- saving them for a special occasion- ask yourself: what if you die tomorrow?
Give yourself time to think about whether you want that piece or is that money better invested on a real luxury item that you will actually use for many years.

Go for things that will give you real joy ( heard of Marie Kondo and the KonMari method?). It is better to save up and buy that Birkin on The realreal or Vestiaire Collective even if you spend more
Remember- you are buying things because they give you joy, who cares whether they're preowned or not?

Well, after a few days of thinking if you just have to buy that particular Bag/Shoe from the latest collection, see if you can't find another piece with the same design aspects in a non-leather material.
You could even search for the exact piece you love on a preowned store (like the ones mentioned above) you might be surprised to see how soon pieces from the latest collections hit these preowned luxury marketplaces. Be patient (a little sacrifice, remember?)
Finally, if you've worked through these options and you haven't found what you want- give yourself permission to buy the thing.  Just make sure you use it and derive all the joy from it that you anticipated.
Please do not hoard it!
After 6 months- if the piece is not being used much,you should consider selling it on those very sites we mentioned. 


SITUATION 2 - You are a regular/prolific consumer of luxury fashion. Things are a little different for you; if you are conflicted about leather after all these years - you must really care more than you realize.
Even if you don't care much, just doing a few little things will help you feel better about your choices...
  • Since you buy luxury items regularly, the golden rule for you is to not hoard.
  • Every time you add a new piece to your collection consider giving one away (selling it on the above-mentioned websites).
  • Start insisting on "responsibly sourced leather" certificates from designers. You are their dream customer; you have more clout than you know.
  • Try to purchase fewer leather items and more non-leather items. Designers will adapt to shifting
    demand- trust us!
  • Support more designers like Stella McCartney who are fantastic designers and are champions for this cause, your encouragement is key.
  • Get together with your like-minded friends and think about what you can do, it's not just about supporting PETA, broaden your horizon- can you support research and accelerate the commercial production of lab-grown (bio-fabricated) leather? Maybe startup and promote this real-but-manufactured leather?
In your case, since you are highly privileged, you must exercise greater discretion.

These are two situations that, rather simplistically, try to capture the two ends of the luxury fashion buyer spectrum; the same rules also apply to those who buy high-street fashion, and to anybody who buys leather goods of any sort.

Now based on the above you can come up with two (or max three, let's keep it real) mantras for yourself.
Make a pretty board/chart, whatever, and pin it where you can see it every day.
Just follow those guidelines religiously- do not think (you already did the thinking), simply obey.

After about a year, refresh and renew your vows!

For example, these are the rules we are trying to enforce on us:
  • Find your style- learn better styling ; you will need fewer things to put together great looks and feel good. Shop only what you are 100% SURE you will use. NO hoarding.
  • ONLY Classic and premium items in leather- reduce purchase, but increase usage.
    (use your best every day?).
    By extension- all Fad/trend driven items are to be non-leather ONLY - use, enjoy & discard.
  • When it comes to Luxury, go for preowned first- ALWAYS.
The key is to actually apply your rules when you shop. It's a promise you've made to yourself.
Curb that impulse, prune that greed; stop comparing yourself to others in all the wrong ways, and step-up your game- powerful women are in control of their actions.
We know you can be VERY tenacious- follow those 3 rules you set!!

Hopefully, these tips will help you make better choices and feel less guilty when it comes to buying leather goods. There is a "real way" that lies somewhere between the "wish away the bad stuff," and the "I don't care because it doesn't matter" extremes; you have to define it for yourself - and stick to it.
Just be more thoughtful.

Oh, and let's end this subject on a fun note: if you are being very good by following the rules both in letter and spirit, feel free to reward yourself with a little something extra (non-leather of course); think luxurious organic skin serums, or better yet, think luxurious experiences- a day at a nature-friendly spa?

Like they say, 'beauty comes from within,' so if you feel good about your life choices and spend more on your health and beauty regimen - you'll have a happy glow and radiate a confidence that no bag/shoe can give you. That is the end game, isn't it? Happiness?


Wednesday 5 October 2016

Wednesday Wishlist: Covetable fall-winter stuff from Mango >>>>> ( we changed it up, more from Zara next time)

Yes, we love Zara (true love), but that doesn't mean we can't covet  H&M, Forever 21 or Mango- does it?
The greatest thing about fashion is that you don't have to be label loyal!

So here is a list of  beautiful stuff from the Mango website, and the good news is- you can shop these online.

100% cashmere cardigan, Rs.14,990

Everything in this Cashmere capsule is lust-worthy, this soft long cardigan is 100% cashmere and 200% dreamy. I just said Cashmere-don't think, jump on it.




Textured coat, Rs.9,990


Do you have any idea how tough it is to find high-quality, well-priced basics?
This black coat is a piece that you will get so much wear out of that you should seriously consider buying
two. The fact that it lacks a collar only makes it more perfect for layering.



Velvet long jumpsuit, Rs.6,790


Haven't you heard? The jump-suit is now considered red-carpet-worthy attire. So, trust us-  it will be perfectly okay to wear it for you little office Xmas Party, or any other party for that matter.This one is a stand-out piece; it's lush, black and slouchy- how'd you like to look bomb without looking like you even care?


Lace panel dress, Rs.6,790

Well, a classy and feminine lacy dress that's just on the right side of sexy is never out of fashion. Dress this one up for the evening with a sparkly cardigan and statement heels or just keep it cool for the day with a bomber and some boots...effortless.




Velvet trousers, Rs.4,590


Channel Bianca Jagger in these midnight blue velvet pants.
Pair with a slinky satin blouse and sky-high heels for serious after dark glamour.
Now the only question is- can you handle the attention?





Metallic finish cardigan, Rs.3,490


A fine-knit, little glam-cardi is always handy. Better than a fussy stole, we say! (not entirely true, but quite)
A hint of sparkle with the added warmth for chilly evenings.



Patent heeled loafers, Rs.4,590

You saw the black Gucci loafers and you're heartbroken because you can't afford them?
Forget those, look at these babies!
Awesome- yes?





Decorative buckle boots, Rs.4,590

This fall/winter these awkward "lower-calf-level" boots can do no wrong, pair them with anything- from minis to maxis. Wear them from day till night, from office to parties- no problem, always stunning!
Just be warned, unlike the super-chic ankle bootie- these are meant to look a little off...if you know what
we mean. These are also not forgiving on stumpy legs (sorry).



Crossed faux-fur bag, Rs.3,490

Nice, tactile and plush looking day bag. Large enough to carry your stuff around in;
slouchy enough so that it doesn't seem like you tried too hard.
Might not be chic enough for a cocktail party, however, and maybe not for office either...
Otherwise- perfect!



Appliqué cross-body bag, Rs.3,490


This is your fun, evening party bag; the sparkly appliqué says 'I'm cool enough to have fun with fashion'.
Patchwork is very cool right now and this could be the chicest way to wear it.




   We are not sure you've seen the Mango Violeta
   range; it is their Plus size collection (UK 12-26).
   We have to say- they have some brilliant
   stuff in their catalog.
   Ps- they have the coolest denim collection for plus
   sizes, including distressed jeans; also - amazing
   leggings.

Slim-fit push up Mariah jeans, Rs.3,490




Tie-neck blouse, Rs.4,590



Pajama style soft fabric trousers, Rs.5,590