"I wish I could change...

the way I look" or, "I wish I had his/her body".


Between 7.30 and 8.30 this morning, as I read the newspaper, I got bombarded by weight loss, liposuction and fat reduction clinics more than ever. Is it me or is it just Saturday?


What got me surprised was an advert about lipolysis, a supposedly "new" technique, which showed the tummy of a pregnant woman. NOT HAPPY!!!


In todays world there's a lot of focus on being slim and perfect and having a svelte figure! And for the men, its having a V-shaped body, being muscular et all.


More so, when I ask women what they like about themselves, I get "my toes" or "my hair". I've never met a woman who thinks she's pretty and doesn't need to lost weight or change anything about her.


A close friend, whom I met after 3 years, looked fabulous in her skinny jeans and silk blouse.  I told her "You look gorgeous, your skin is glowing". She replied "Really? I'm fat. I'm trying to lose weight"
Me : "When I saw you i3 years back, you looked pretty skinny and I must admit, anorexic. Believe me, you're looking healthy, not overweight, not fat, but pure healthy which reflects in your hair shining and your complexion glowing"
Her : "You think? I feel so fat. I've got thyroid and it's making me fat"


And this went on.


Body Dysmorphia as described by Wikipedia is when the affected person is excessively concerned about and preoccupied by a perceived defect in his or her physical features (body image).


In simple terms, it is when you look into the mirror and only focus on the flaws e.g., rather than you focusing on how gorgeous your eyes are, you focus on your forehead which could be narrow, or on your nose which might be too big!


Rather than seeing the bad, see what you've got as a canvas and use tools to enhance them.


Here are a few examples.


If you've got small eyes, use kohl, eye liner and eye shadow to make them appear bigger.
If you've got short fingers, go for a french manicure with a really tiny white line or go with nude colours.
If you've got wide hips, balance out your shape by wearing a dark colour (like a black pencil skirt) on the bottom and wear horizontal stripes on the top.
Short Legs- wide leg trousers, high waist skirts and pants. Avoid skinny jeans unless you're really slim. Keep the length of your skirts just above to knee. And wear Heels!!!
Big Bangers ( or boobs)- wear v-necks. avoid scoop necklines as they make them look bigger.
Bulging curves- invest in good shapewear!!!
Big thighs/ knock knee- bow legs- Skinny jeans are a no no! wear trouser jeans or straight leg pants. Nothing tapered!


Use clothes and makeup to your advantage so that you feel good about yourself. 


No one will notice your flaws if you can wear them with confidence!

Dress your age (your true age)

This seems to be an epidemic. Most people (Women, Please know I'm talking about you) can't accept the fact that they're not the same as what they were 15, 10 or even 5 years ago. There's always a lot of effort put in to looking young.

As I walk around in Lokhandwalla market ( well known marketplace in Mumbai), I see petite plus size aunties wearing jumpsuits, skinny jeans and one sight that I won't be able to get over is a lady (quite elderly) wearing a racer back top with her Bra being visible.

For one, if you're in your 20s, 30s, 40s or even 50s, it's fine to show the bra if it's sexy and you've got the cleavage to show it off or even if the straps are damn too sexy to hide them!

Otherwise, just keep them concealed!

Recently, at a gathering, I came across a salesman who happened to have all colours in leggings for sale. As soon as women around me heard about him, they flocked to him and bought every colour they could possibly get their thighs into!
FYI, I don't wear skinny jeans or leggings!
Aunties in leggings, jeggings and skinny jeans are a complete NO NO if heavy on the top. If you'd like me to be direct, if you have big boobs or 'bangers' as I like to call them, please avoid the skinny jean and j/legging.

I have a cousin who's drop dead gorgeous with a body to die for; she's in her early 20s. She can wear anything and look fantastic in it! I, as a stylist, mother of two, being quite slim and, in my late 20s ( my true age) can't. No one can beat teens and young girls in their early 20s.

So forget trying!

Why it's important to dress your age?

If you dress younger than you are, it not only looks like you're trying too hard, rather than looking younger, you actually end up looking older.

Here's how you do it.

Accept your age and the way your body is. You're a mature person, so there's no need to look young. There's a big difference in looking 'young' and looking 'youthful'.
Most importantly, love yourself for the way you are!
Confidence and loving yourself is key to looking great!

Indian Style

Conservative yet modern. 

Love the West but stick to the East.

On my current trip to India, I see so much change (I say for the better, some say for the worse) it's unbelievable.

In terms of fashion, men and women are dressing differently that what they did five years ago. They seem to be more aware of trends and brands now than they ever did before. Even though there is a modern touch to it, something seems to be off.

People seem to be going after labels and designers blindly without knowing what actually suits their shape and age.

Recently, I happened to bump into a childhood friend and my jaw dropped to the floor seeing her. I don't remember what she wore but I'm sure it was great. Her eye makeup was so loud that it didn't allow me to focus on her outfit. She had the colours of the peacock on her eyes, literally, all of them painted across her eye lids. Plus the glitter.

This is when it's important to know, that trends are one thing and style is another and, the model in the ad for a makeup brand has been photoshopped.

Indian fashion, entertainment and lifestyle magazines showcase more trends and styles than other countries as they cover both the Indian and International fashion scene. That's where some people can't understand how to go about making it their own style.

Another example, the A-line Kurta (a tunic that can be as short as hip length to one that's long as just above the ankle) is very much in trend now. Everyone seems to be wearing it; be it a young 22 yr old to her mum who could be 45+.  While no one can beat a teenager and a 22 yr old who owns a killer body, her mum who's petite plus size just looks like she's trying too hard to blend in, but ends up looking older than she really is and looks like she's wearing a tent.

Men on the other hand, seem to be in love with GQ and Arjun Rampal. Men are wearing skinny pants and faded or torn jeans. Now, this is a big problem. This I hope I'll say for the last time, if you have a tummy and wear skinny jeans or tights you're going to look like an ice-cream cone or a tomato on toothpicks.

Designers in India and Internationally, focus on trends without realising that not all trends suit all people. Yes, a model with a small bust, flat tummy and butt looks great in every piece that she's in, that's why she's called a 'Model'.

Some Indian designers are nailing it on the head. They're mixing what's great about India with the best from the International scene and putting it together. 

Styles that are conservative yet very modern and have a Western touch to it.

The Importance of a Stylist

A stylist isn't only for celebrities, but today, we (stylists) are more accessible to regular people who don't have the time or don't know what to wear or just hate shopping. Stylists make it easy and less complicated.

'Why do I need a Stylist?', you ask.
Lets use your iPhone, Blackberry, Android or even just your computer as an example here.
You need to update it with the latest software so that it works well and syncs in with other apps/ programs et all. Also, every person has their own specific programs/apps on their device. Once in a while you need to see what are the unnecessary items on your device and put them in the trash, and also organize apps/programs/files in a way that makes it easier for you to find.

So, in terms of style, stylists help you attain a more modern, sophisticated and updated look keeping in mind the latest trends as well as your own personality. We help you clear out what doesn't work for you, make items you like work for you (if practical) and teach you what works for your shape and lifestyle.  Everyone we style has different pieces in their wardrobe and we also show you how to organize your closet so that you can put together your outfits fast when in a hurry.

As stylists, we help to make you feel like a celebrity without having to spend like one.

Cheers

+61422781056

Clothes Vs You.

It's a battle I see majority of my clients facing.
This is how it goes:
1. Client sees item on Mannequin
2. Client selects same item from the rack.
3. goes into the trial room.
4. Tries on outfit
5. Looks in the mirror and says "I do not look good"
6. Confidence at an all new low.

Lesson to be learned : Don't blame yourself for how the outfit looks. Blame the outfit. No body shape is the same. Two people with the exact same measurements will have different shapes to each other.
If the outfit doesn't work, make it work by taking it to the tailor. If that's not possible, try on something else and forget about it.

Happy Shopping.

Its Tan, its White... It's tough to be.... (yeah,yeah,yeah)

Turn on any Indian TV channel and all you get is 'Fair skin in 14 days and get noticed'

Being in Australia for the last five years I've realised that the minute the Sun comes out, you know everyone's headed to the beach to get a tan or come summer, everyone's going to get a spray tan or heading to a tanning salon.

Growing up in an Indian family, I immediately learned that OD-ing on Milk and Yogurt would be good for me. I was born dark, and lived in Dubai (not quite the concrete jungle it is today) and it was Hot for probably 87 % of the year. I played sport, so being tanned was something I couldn't avoid.

My eldest Chachi (aunt) kept taunting my mum of how dark I was and kept telling me "Agar to itna dhoop mein jayegi toh koi tere se shaadi nahi karega".. translates to " If you go under the Sun so much[and get dark] no one will marry you". Like I cared. I was 7 years old. 

My mum tried her level best to make me fair. Home remedies with milk et all . Nothing worked. I still went out and played in the sun. 

And, I didn't even look like her daughter; being Indian, she was so fair it was unbelievable.

Anyways, I'm now married and have two kids. 

I don't use fairness creams or visit tanning salons. 

I still go under the Sun with SPF of course.

And now when I go back to visit family, the same aunt says to me " Arrey!!! tu kitni Gori ho gayee hain Australia mein reh ke"= " WOW!!! Living in Australia, you've become so fair"

Sigh!

Love yourself for how you are. 

Article in Melton Weekly for Styphoria

How Perfect...

We all have an ideal picture of ourselves in our mind... of how thin and perfect we'd like to be and till then it's 

1."I'll go shopping once I lose some weight" or

2."I'm in between sizes" or 

3."I'm waiting to get the job to buy myself some clothes".

What if that day took longer than ever to arrive?

Till then, would you wear 'Ok-Ok' clothes?

Why not

1. Buy good clothes now so that the clothes encourage you to lose more weight. Atleast you're looking good now.

2. Go up a size and get it tailored... that's what tailors are for. Then they'll fit!

3. If you buy good clothes, you can probably end up getting the job sooner than you think. And you can probably get more than one job offer. How great would that be?

There's no point waiting for things to happen. They never might. 

Make them happen.

Cheers.

Fat or Fit? Or,... not?

As a woman, I've realised our biggest problem is our weight!

Sometimes we're too thin. Sometimes we're too fat!

I'm sorry, I know men too have that problem.

It's like we're all having a continuous war with our weight.

I've been a size 16(UK) and a size 2(US) and now a size 8 (AUS).  Everytime I have a conversation with someone (unknown), they will say "You're so skinny" or "You need to go to the gym". Or if I meet someone after some time, they say "You've lost weight" and for some reason my weighing scale doesn't show it!

As a stylist, I've met many women who tell me that they're having 'weighty issues' and I understand all that.I have thyroid! I've had two babies ( both boys) in two years. No, I'm not trying for a girl! I know what menopause is.
And men, I know you all love your beer, so do I!

But don't give up on style! It's the only thing that'll make you want to fit into all your good clothes.

If and when you've had a sudden weight change, whether you've gained it or lost it, you must try and find clothes that suit your new shape. They should fit you well. Don't make do with the clothes that fitted you well at one time and now don't. If you still keep clothes in your wardrobe that do not fit you, then you're doing yourself wrong. Don't do a disservice to your body by wearing clothes that don't fit you.

When your body shape changes and existing clothes no longer fit, you need to try on lots of clothes to see how they fit you. It can mean a different size and even different structure.

Its not about what size you are, its about the clothes you wear!

Embarrassed by your other half?

Even though you love your other half, do you feel embarrassed by the way they dress or the way they present themselves to the world?

That can happen in relationships over time! Normally, with women, it happens once a baby comes into the house as she 'has no time' for herself, or menopause, and for men, it's marriage!

"Who's going to look at me?" ask both partners. One, a new mother in tracks that are torn at the hem for being too long, with a pair of rubber slippers and her husband's T-Shirt. She has her hair tied back into a claw clip and no sign of any makeup what-so-ever. And two, the Husband, wearing a T-Shirt that has a stain on it, is too tight for him to breathe ( it's as good as shape wear) and in a pair of light wash jeans with a pleated front ( I thought they stopped manufacturing those)!

You'd be surprised that, as much as you don't want, people do notice. And they notice everything.

If at one time you were the one who made the effort to dress well and look great, and now you've given up as you're a mother/father, don't have the time, or just can't be bothered, then it's not the right thing to do. For yourself, and your relationship!!

If you're the one staying at home as your partner wears those hideous clothes and is no longer paying attention to their appearance, then you need to help them. By taking your partner out for shopping and pampering them, it could make them feel better. If you can't do it, get a professional to help them out.
Tell your partner that you want him/her to dress well, not only for you but for themselves as well. It'll create more happiness in the relationship.

Sex IN the City

Married? In a relationship? Or looking for someone special?

Whatever your situation, you need to dress like you care about yourself.
That's how you'd show your partner or the person you're with, that you're worth it.

If you go on a date dressed in jeans and a T-shirt you're probably not going to make it to second base.

It's easy to be defensive and say "I don't care how I look on the outside" and  "people need to know me".
Thats plainly giving people too much credit. They won't bother looking at you if you're not dressed well. As much as you are a great person on the inside, people need to see it on the outside. It shouldn't be easy for someone to pass you by.

You can't make yourself invisible and you shouldn't try to. Why would you?

Ladies, remember one thing, as much as a man might have the best and kindest heart in the world, he still wants to be with the hottest and most beautiful woman in the room.
Regardless of your shape, you need to embrace your sexuality and dress well to show off your curves so that you reach the point of baring it all.

Preview- Dress to Impress

Trying to sell something?

How often do you feel that during a presentation or when you're trying to sell something, no one is listening to you? They're looking at you, but not listening?

Whatever kind of product you are selling, no one's going to be interested in it if you can't present yourself well.

Knowing all about your product is as important as dressing to sell it.

When you're dressed well and presentable, even if your product is something that some or part of your audience may not want to buy, the way you portray yourself, will make them interested in it. This could lead to a huge sale!


Remember, people will judge you even before you open your mouth.

Ordinary to Extraordinary

The only thing that makes the difference is the 'Extra'.

Being ordinary is easy. Anyone can do it.

Being extraordinary is not as difficult as it sounds.

Putting in extra effort in taking care of yourself thus making yourself happy.

Going an extra mile to make things work... for the better.

Wearing clothes that suit and flatter your shape are not hard to find. You need to put in effort to look for them. Sometimes, the 'extra' comes into factor when you take an item of clothing to the tailor to make it perfect for you. It took me 17-18 pairs of jeans to find myself the one that suits me best.. and make me look extraordinary.

Makeup was created for reasons: 

1. to hide imperfections and marks on the face

2. to enhance a woman's natural features

3. to make a woman feel more beautiful about herself

5-7 minutes is all a woman needs every morning to put on makeup and head off.

Making that little bit of effort in just straightening your side bangs makes a big difference to your face.

Ofcourse, all the above put together means extra compliments too!

Great Transformations

A few pics of some of my makeovers.

Following their footsteps

As much as I love my folks and their style, I loved their style.... back in the day!
I used to see dad wear these amazing suits to work and mum too, used to dress up pretty well. This was the time that I was going to school!

Now, that style is outdated. It was good then but we can't stay in the year 1999 forever can we?
If you love your parents' style and want to follow it, do it in a more modern way!
My Mum wore polka dots and florals and I love that... She also wore Extra High heels which I feared 'would I EVER be able to wear them?'. At 5'8'' I love my high heels and they're high as can be. Polkas and florals are part of my 'Collection' ( fancy word for my wardrobe) but in a modern cut and silhouette!

Our parents want us to look good but might not know always what's right for us in terms of fashion and style and modern style! In saying that... as I write(type) this blog I do hope I know how to make my sons look great and have a good sense of style 18 years from now.

The Importance of a good wardrobe

I don't mean an expensive wardrobe filled with Gucci and Armani et all.
I mean clothes that make you feel and look good, flatter your shape and skin color and most of all make you feel sexy.

When you wake up every morning and look into your closet, you shouldn't be sitting in front of it wondering 'Sigh, I have nothing to wear'. It should be that before you go to sleep you think about what you're looking forward to wearing the next morning and feel great about it.

Thats the kind of relation I have with my clothes and accessories.

Having a wardrobe with good fitting clothes is vital for a person's confidence and personal life.
HOW you ask?

Well, if you're confident about yourself and walk down the street, you know heads are turning towards you and you know that the opposite sex is thinking 'I want this person' and, the people of the same sex are green with envy. You suddenly get onto people's wish list. Also, you fare better at work. Somehow you are noticed for good reasons at work. In the world that we are in today, everyone wants to talk to that Good looking person or that Bombshell!
Your sex life also gets better because suddenly your partner realises you're oozing with confidence and wants you even more. Sound good right?
Sexy for men and women doesn't come from showing more skin, it comes from showing the right amount in the right places and leaving the rest to guess.

A good wardrobe starts with key basics that we all need to have and then building it slowly.
If you know what you want and don't know how to get it, get someone to help you.

Make it last longer!

Check the label! 

Fabric type. wash instructions, temperature and if Dry clean only or hand wash only will all be on that. Follow it and your investment will be worth it. 

Whats even better is, with fashion being cyclical you'll have it when it comes back into trend! 

Shopping for clothes or yourself

Whats your feeling when you go out and try clothes?

Do you look bad/good in the clothes?
Or do the clothes look bad/good on you?

I've noticed in when I've taken a client out, they blame their shape for the clothes not looking good. Thats not how it should be.

Blame the clothes if they don't suit your body shape coz they were not probably made for your body shape. Don't blame yourself. Again, what might look good on your friend will not necessarily look great on you and vice versa. Don't compare. You're not setting great standards for yourself if you do that.

Designers don't design clothes keeping all body shapes in mind for one outfit. They make several outfits for different body shapes and sizes. So try looking further down the rack, you certainly might find something that'll make you feel great!

Also remember, you're not shopping for clothes, you're shopping for yourself! :)

L.B.D

It could be the best item you could own in that closet or the worst if it's not for your shape...

That is... the

Little Black Dress

It's my favourite piece of clothing in my wardrobe. I hate to admit, but I have 3 of them now. All sheath dresses.

It is one basic clothing item that is a must have for women of all ages and any size. You can take it from the park to the club by pairing it with a denim jacket to the park and then a nice jacket with a sheen or a nice soft cardigan and belt/ jewelry and high heels at night!

Can't figure out how to create an outfit?

So, when you look into your wardrobe, you can't understand how to mix items to create an outfit?
Start with the basic.
1. Take a neutral shade or a item that has a solid color
2. Your second item should have one of the following

• Color- different to the first item
• Texture- something that has a different feel to it.
• Pattern
• Shine- not too much or that could look cheap

3. Complete the outfit with a cardigan or fitted jacket
4. Accessories. They always change the personality of an outfit and can take an outfit from day to night.

CPW

Don't know what that is?
Like buying the cheap stuff?
Think that shirt/blouse is too expensive?

Do this.
When you go out shopping the next time, think about the piece you plan on buying and how much it costs. Then think about how many times you'll wear it.

Thats the CPW or Cost Per Wear of that piece.

So, if you see a jacket for $140, you'd probably wear it 3 times a month = 36 times a year.
140/36=3.89. Thats $3.89 per wear. Not bad. You'd probably keep it for more than a year if its good quality.

Of course, in repeating the jacket 36 times in the year, you will need to mix it up with different pieces to make it look like you've got a big wardrobe.

Think of clothes as an investment.
An investment into your life, your career and your future.

How comfy are you?

'Comfy' or 'comfortable' normally means track pants and a T-shirt ( that is so loose, the shoulder line of the T hangs off the actual shoulder) or, a full track suit.

Comfort zone normally means Black as it is "slimming".

All my clients so far love wearing tracks to places other than the Gym. And pyjamas seem to be something they 'wear to do the groceries'.

Men, on the other hand, I've noticed, love wearing their nylon sports shorts with slippers to do groceries.

I, on the other hand, have been brought up to dress up at home incase I had a surprise guest. I love it.

'Comfy' can be a great pair of jeans, which, I feel, every person should have to flatter their shape. Whats important is for people to step out of their comfort zone and try colours, and different fabrics and mix pieces.  Men too, should try colors, even for corporate wear! I feel it brings out their personality and makes them stand out from the rest.

EBay? Asos? Addicted to online shopping

As much as it's convenient to be sitting in that chair in some comfy pjs drinking a hot chocolate and looking at sites that offer you the best deals, I think shopping for clothes and shoes is just wrong.

Along with gaining calories on all those items you would be snacking on while shopping online, you're not even walking to burn them off.
I'm not against online shopping, it's fine when you know the retailer stocks good fabrics and you are aware of your size with the retailer.

It also comes down to fit, colour and style of an item. How do you know it will look good on you till you try it.

Impulsive shopping

Do we shop just for the fun of it?

Do we go with the need to buy and item or is it "I'll but that, and that and that and that"?

Impulsive shopping is bad in a few ways

1. For the wallet

2. For the wardrobe. Too many clothes, probably most of them unflattering for the body shape. They'll never be worn.

3. It's a waste. Why not buy something that is of value and use?

I wish I could have a figure like....

How many times have you walked into a store, or opened up a magazine and seen your favourite star and think ' only if I could have that figure and be like that'.

The problem is that if we don't aspire to whats realistic then there is a sense of failure. We're all unique!
This is a virus and its spreading due to media drilling into us that 'thinness is good'. Everywhere we go people talk about' weight loss', 'how to burn off those calories' and  'how to attain a bikini wearable waistline'.

Regardless of one's shape and size there are boutiques and stores that cater to different sizes.  Being little overweight shouldn't put one off from looking presentable and good. And It's ok to be two different sizes on the top and bottom.

If you are unique, and you believe so, then also know that there is no one like you and no one comparable to you.

Want to get your work done? Get Stylish!

Ever thought of why no one would give you importance in those torn jeans and faded T and why the man/ woman in the styled suit with good nails managed to get first priority?

Well, one more look at the other person and you'd know why! How intimated are you by a person who is well dressed?

I've noticed that on particular occasions the person who is well dressed intimidates others around them but manages to get everything they want DONE! It's unfair! But that's how the world is!

We all fall for what appeals to us!

Style Therapy

Isn't that what stylists are about? Therapy?
As a stylist, I've noticed that its not only a wardrobe that we change, but a person's life and what's to come ahead.
We listen, we understand, we teach and we makeover!
A makeover leads to a whole new life for a person. Sometimes the top job, a partner, marriage, a new way of living life, more confidence.

It's good to know what a transformation can do to a person's life.

Style and Self Esteem

How do you feel when you look in the mirror?

When I look in the mirror ( I love my full length mirror) I feel good.
This is life talking and, as we age, we get wiser ( Thank God).

But there was a time when, forget looking in the mirror, I hated going out. Those were the years that I was growing up as a little girl till about the age of sixteen. With cousins ( one cousin whom I always admired) and friends who were very pretty, feminine and always in good clothes, I felt miserable. I was always made fun of by particular people in my life and hated my life. I was quite overweight and my mum hated it but had no choice, so took me clothes shopping to the boys section most of the time. She felt bad and kept telling me to lose weight and the importance of looking good.
At one time, she also mentioned to me that "you won't get married if you don't lose weight".  I always admired mum, and still remember how she used to love dressing up. Even when she retired, she would get ready and sit at home and upon once asking her "Mama are you going out? Why are you getting ready?", she replied,"I'm not going anywhere darling, I'm getting ready because I want to feel good about myself all the time".

When I was about sixteen, due to something that happened in my life, I shut myself away from everyone for 2 months and lost about 20 kilos with eating one meal a day and exercising for 5 hours in a day.
When I came out on the 60th day ( this was exactly 2 months later) from my room dressed in a tight red top with a waist of 25 inches from a waist that was 34 inches, mum was very ecstatic; Dad was happy too, but he didn't show it.
I was obsessed about how I looked suddenly!
From an overweight 80 Kilos I came down to 61 kilos and then something happened. I was so crazy that it lead to Bulimia and Anorexia, and It went on till I was 20. I knew I needed help, but I did not where to go. From a healthy young girl, I turned into a skinny girl  of 49 kilos.

From 16 till 20, losing weight, anorexia and Bulimia, it had caused a lot of damage. The sparkling white teeth were now slightly yellow, I had a damaged liver so even if I tried to eat I couldn't, I had hair that was thinning out, I had sever hormonal problems and I was always in search of something and couldn't find it.

On one particular day, it hit me, that I wanted to get married someday and have kids, but would I be able to with my bad health? And that changed my life.

Today at 27, I've got 2 little boys aged 3 and 2 whom I love the most in the world and Thank God for them (touchwood). I love my food, but I burn it off sometimes and sometimes I just say "life's too short too worry about 200 extra calories". It's ok!

Why did I write this today?

We all have a person we admire and want to be like, whether it be a model, actor, actress, it's important to know that we are individuals we shouldn't lose out who we are by trying to be them.

Use style to create your own personality. Don't worry if the clothes don't fit. There are many more brands that are tailored for you.

For all those who know someone out there who have eating disorder, It's important to let them know they will be loved regardless of their shape, and being healthy is the key to living life.

Love,

Tina
P.s Love yourself for who you are!

The 'Ok' Factor

When someone asks me how they look, I have tendency to be brutally honest. It's part of my job :)
How does one manage when they go shopping alone? or with a friend?

Do people settle for whats 'ok'? If so, why? Why not dress to their fullest potential?

While I was shopping a couple of days ago at my favourite store, I saw a young woman looking for some clothes. After getting a little chatty with the retail assistant, I overheard her saying she was 'looking for a dress for a best friend's baby shower'.

Great chance for the retail assistant (Almost a sale)! So as this customer was handed 5-6 different dresses, she went into the trial room to experiment how each one looked on her. As she came out in each dress, I saw her reaction, there was no dress that gave her the twinkle in her eyes. So she went back in to try on one of the dresses again to convince herself.

The most surprising part, she walked out with a dress that she was not a 100 % sure about, a dress that she might not even end up wearing on the day of the baby shower and will probably be lying in her wardrobe for a year before it gets lost in between all her other clothes and one day finally gets donated.

Why??

Why do we settle for less in our clothes when we don't in other things?

Black Magic

It amazes me as to how much people love black and think of it as 'Slimming'.
In my opinion, I think the wearer of Black looks quite dense and really doesn't have an idea as to what colour can do to them.
Theres a way to wear Black and that would be as a basic piece ( Jeans, Pant, Skirt Or Jacket) and then adding an item that has some colour to make stand out from the rest of the crowd.

O.O.O.... Only one opportunity

To all my readers out there, consider everyday as the last day to make a lasting impression!
It takes 3 seconds for an impression to be created! So make the most of it everyday!

"Why? I don't care about how people perceive me!"

Really?
So, you wouldn't want people to garner you with comments on your outfit or how great you look? You wouldn't want to be the talk of the office, in a positive way? you wouldn't want to be the reason the other girls are going green with envy?

Regardless of your shape, size, height, color you can look great! And, what that does is creates more and more confidence!

Style and Food

Recently I wrote an article called 'Style and Dance' and this time Its style related to cooking.
Earlier today, while I was cooking Lamb Curry for my son's 2nd Birthday bash, as I put in each ingredient, waited for the fragrance, i realised that Its the same with style. How?
Well, not every spice is good with all dishes so in terms of style, not all fashion trends suit everyone and not every style goes with everyone. In cooking, we need to take a little bit of each spice and make it our special flavour; same with style, A little bit here and there and add something special on top to make it an individual's own style!
I learnt at home ( when I wasn't married and dad found it necessary for me to learn cooking) that to make it more tempting, garnishing the curry with some chopped coriander leaves and in some cases, a couple of boiled eggs cut into quarters was a nice way of serving food to guests. Accessorising the outfit with a belt, neckpiece and bangles and killer heels would make it exclusive to one's style!
Going back to the basics, in India, the base of our most of our dishes are finely chopped onions and tomatoes, and then we mix in all the spices. Style starts of with a basic item and then mixing it with other pieces that make it stylish!

So, my curry's turned out delicious!

Keep it stylish! :)

Life... & A wardrobe

Sometimes things happen in life... good things, bad things, things that are unexpected.

When the good things happen, its Great!

When something unforeseen happens, or we hear of something that causes worry and concern, it just takes over our lives.

Just wearing a nice outfit, can make you feel better. At the back of the mind, the worry is still there, but at least you're not giving up entirely.

This might be easier said than done, but just try it, it just might work!

Dress for the job you want, not the one you have

My first job many years ago was in a contact centre and it amazes me that people never knew how to dress to work. They'd think 'I'm on the phone, who can see me and what I'm wearing?'

It seemed like there was no aspiration to grow or succeed in life, just by looking at their clothes. 

For me, going to work was just another reason I gave myself for dressing up.

Whats important is that one can't stay in a contact centre forever, answering phones for the rest of their life, unless of course they want to, or if they dress that part.

I tell graduates and interns that they need to dress for the job they want when they start in the workforce and build their reputation with not only their work, but their wardrobe. Sometimes people will only notice the work that they do if the person them self stands out.

Having the best degree in the world will not help if the person is not dressed for that part as employers feel, 'If you can take care of yourself, you can take care of my business'. Infact, when dressed up well to the work place, a person can be intimidating to other employees as the person is always being noticed.

As a fashion stylist and image consultant, I have a love for clothing and dressing up well, and I know I dress that part, as every where I go, I will bump into prospective clients and my image needs to speak for itself.

I'm a Millionaire!

Looking like a millionaire and being one are two different things...

But, it can happen.

Looking like a Millionaire can lead to being a Millionaire.

Its all about how you dress and how you carry yourself.

Having a great wardrobe doesn't mean emptying the wallet. It means shopping wisely.

When going out to shop, don't be impulsive to pick up something 'just coz it looks good on the mannequin'; buy wisely. Think about what you'll wear it with. Think of a full outfit in your head.

It's not about having loads of clothes. It's about having the best items of great quality, that last a long time.

Also, when wearing clothes with style, and those that look good on you, it iboosts your confidence which automatically makes you walk with your head held high and ofcourse, garners you loads of comments.

Getting 'That' job

You've sent the resume. Had a phone interview. All good.
Now its time to meet the key decision makers.
So will you make it, or break it?

So you can wear a decent pair of shoes with a jumper and a shirt under it  as you've got all the experience in the world on that resume of yours, so your chances are high.

I don't think so.

It's amazing how many people go wrong in an interview.

Noserings and studs might be very cool at a concert, but at the workplace, they're a No No!

Ofcourse what you will wear depends on the type of company you are aspiring to join.

So if you're in finance, law, IT or something where the dress sense is very corporate, you need to follow it. Dressing to impress is vital here.

If you're trying to get into something creative, show it. I don't mean show your tattoos.
Dress in style!

A few things that your interviewer will notice on you,
1. how well are you groomed/ manicured? If you can take care of yourself, you can take care of the company
2. Whether you care about your appearance? Not taking things for granted.


To get you job you want, you need to dress it.

Style and Dance

They have a connection. They're very similar, yet very different.

Dance, being an artistic form of non verbal communication.
Style, is also a form of non verbal communication... Artistic if you want it to be.

One might not have a great body, but they can dance well.
The same applies to clothing.

Through dance and style, we can express who we are, without a word.

Dressing up is the key to confidence.


Not all of us know how to dance, that doesn't mean we can't. It just means we need to learn. Likewise for style. For some, it comes naturally, for others, they need to be told.

It's about learning what makes you look and feel good and brings out that confidence in you.

Shopping tip #3

Make sure you're groomed well or have the appropriate makeup and have done your hair well so that you know what you'll look like.

Love thy wardrobe

Nothing can be more pathetic than not loving your clothes. It's the worst feeling ever.
It does happen.

All those clothes that would have been gifted from some aunt or some cousin or even parents are nice as gifts but its not necessary for us to love them.

Decluttering is a very important part of the life of the wardrobe and it should be done if not every 3 months then surely 6 months. If its important and valuable, then take a picture.

If theres something in that closet you've not worn for sometime, you probably won't wear it, unless its that special occasion outfit.

If you love your wardrobe, you'll love the way you look everyday and would be able to mix and match pieces to make a great outfit.

365 Reasons to dress well

Life isn't all that exciting as we would want it to be but that doesn't mean our closet should be boring.
But, we can change things. Just like we make our life, we build our wardrobe.

Give yourself a new reason everyday to dress well, even if you don't have to step out of the house.
For e.g.  On a lazy Sunday, how about just dressing in a nice pair of jeans and smart top/ shirt and keeping a jacket/blazer easily accessible if someone does decide to surprise you.

Sometimes, theres no need to dress up, and people might ask you why you're dressed up... It's coz they're not! and they're not happy to see someone else looking better than them.

I've done it and I love the reaction I get when I say "There's no reason to dress up, I'm like this all the time"

Dress for $ucce$$

Dressing for work? Dress for the job you want, not the one you own.

Shopping tip #2

Carry your shapewear with you... or wear it so that you know what the outfit looks like over it.

shopping tips

This part is something that you'll keep seeing on the blog,  So,
tip #1: When trying out clothes take an accessory that you think you'll always wear with it, or try on a belt at the time to see how it looks.

3 types of clothes you should have in your wardrobe

1. Clothes that fit you well
2. Clothes that make you feel good
and most importantly,
3. Clothes that, when worn, garner you loads of comments. :)

Its the latest in style

So? Ask yourself if it really suits you.

Theres a way to do the latest in fashion so that it suits you. Every season, our fashion forecasters say that a wide belt or boots or wedges or pastels or brights or roman sandals could be in fashion or even the gypsy skirt!! Not all of us can do the gypsy skirt. But we can do a pastel, maybe if it doesn't suit my skin tone, I can opt for a clutch or maybe even a belt that would be a way to break my brightly colored dress.

Being up-to-date with the latest trends is good. Its like knowing whats the latest in the news, but not everything has to do with us or relates to us.

Furnish my wardrobe

Have you ever gone shopping for furniture, lights, curtains etc?? I have, and I must say its really tiring. First I go measure the areas of the house and make all the markings, then head off to the furniture stores, and even the internet to guide me for items, and measurements and colors. I've gone a little far in paying a deposit for a plank of timber which I drive around in my car all the time to find items that go with it... I didn't say "Match''... I said "to go with" and finding rugs and lights that suit and fit the house. I know when someone enters my home, they'll say that I have some sort of "great style".

The same goes with a wardrobe. Fit, Fabric, Color and Texture is all important. We all have our own style. But there's a way to do the 80s in a more modern way. 

If you're unsure of an item you bought, keep the tag on and don't forget your receipt. Try it on at home and take a photo of yourself using your cellphone camera (everyone has one), and take a look at the photo after five-ten minutes. If you don't like it, then you're never gonna wear it, return it ASAP. 

Its a designer outfit

So what?? Thats not a big deal. Does it suit you?
Designers are good, but not every piece they design would suit everyone's body shape. So it doesn't matter if its a Chanel, Mango, Zara or even Manish Malhotra ( my favourite, but I've never met him or tried his pieces).

It's really vital to find pieces, regardless of the type of store they're from, to enhance your body shape and make you feel good.

Size doesn't matter

Thankfully, not everyone is of the same size.  Sometimes, we can be of a different size on the top and a different one on the bottom. Thats not bad. It just means that if you're a size 6 on the top and an 8 on the bottom you need to get clothing of those sizes not a size 6 as you feel thats better and pull in your stomach till you die to fit into those bottoms. If you're in the plus size category, finding stores that have outfits to suit your body is key in making that wardrobe.

Red Jacket, Red Shoes, Red Bangles...Aaargh

A smart person once said, "It doesn't need to match, it needs to go!!"

And thats quite correct. So having one colour in the accessories matching the bag and shoes is too much. Mix it up a little. Maybe a pastel top, with blue jeans, a nice green necklace with nude shoes and a clutch or bag in a golden metallic colour might do it all.

MIrror MIrror on the wall...who's the one who's got it all?

I can't tell you that this is the most important accessory of any household. Before you step outside the house, you need to look at yourself head-to-toe to see what you really look like, and that includes your hair and shoes, even that bag.
Clothes look different on the hanger than on us, so the outfit that you have put together might not look as great as you though it to be if you don't see yourself in that mirror.

Besides, whats the first thought that comes into your mind when you look at yourself head to toe? That's probably the same thing that's come into an onlookers mind as he walked past.... was it 'VA-VA-VOOM' or just 'NAHH'??

I'm having a bad day! sigh!

Did you know that most people give up dressing well when they feel low or down in the dumps? And whats worse is, they think that they can get away with it!!

Dressing up well, or making an effort to dress well can impact one's mood considerably. It certainly peps up the mood and gets rid of that lack of confidence.

Something even as simple as going for a manicure or pedicure or even just a hair massage can change the mood.

When we see people, what they wear portrays who they are, whether it be stylish, only black,boring, sporty, or just funky. So if they're upset and step out of the house all trashy, then one would think this person doesn't really care about their appearance.

So dress up and step out!

Every Woman's 10 Must Haves

1. Basic Black Dress 
2. Trench Coat 
3. Dress Pants
4. Classic Shirt
5. Jeans
6. Any Occasion Top
7. Skirt
8. Day Dress 
9. Jacket 
10. Sweatsuit Alternative

Bonus: One Indulgent Trendy Item

Bras, Briefs, Knickers or granny underpants? Boxers or Briefs?

Lingerie is a term for fashionable and possibly alluring undergarments. The term in the French language applies to all undergarments for either gender. In English it is applied specifically to those undergarments designed to be visually appealing or erotic. Lingerie usually incorporating one or more flexible, stretchy materials like Lycra, nylon (nylon tricot), polyester, satin, lace, and silk which are not typically used in more functional, basic cotton undergarments. Sourced from Wikipedia.

A woman, any woman, all women should be fitted for a correct size Bra and should be wearing knickers that not only able to support the body but also suit the shape. A woman's body changes quite often, even though it might not show, but you would need a bra fitting atleast every 6 months. The right bra would not only offer great support but also enhance the bust and make those bangers look great in clothes.
Men, get out of those unsexy briefs and look at some nice boxers, not those silky satiny ones.

Check out some underwear facts

• Married men change their underwear twice as often as single men.
• Italians wear red, Argentineans wear pink, and Brazilians wear brand new underwear on New Years Eve.
• 34% of women like to match their bras and panties.
• 24% of men have a lucky pair of underwear.
• In 1991, the average bra size in the United States was 34B; today it's 36C.

So hit the stores and get some well fitting undergarments.

Oh Wow! You Look great in that dress!!

Thats what the sales person at the store has just told you... fooled you into buying that outfit. She just made a sale!
Sales people... regardless of where they are... in what industry.... may be great at their job but not all of them ( none of them) want the best for the client.
So don't get fooled by "that dress looks fantastic on you",  'cause you might just be looking really bad it in.
I've reached a stage where when I try an outfit on, if they say it looks nice... I say, " Yup, I know, I'll you know if I need anything". So I'm not rude, but telling her that I can make do without her advice.

If you know what looks good on you, go by your own judgement, if you don't, take someone who can be of good help.

Get that shape

The magic of shape wear.... gets rid of all those luv handles and areas of flab without surgery. The most important part of a woman's wardrobe is shape wear. Corsets, bustiers all give shape. Go check out http://www.spanx.com/home/index.jsp

I've got an awards night, and I don't know what to wear

You must be kidding. You know what to wear.  If you don't, google images of the right clothing for an awards night or function or some occasion.
Look out for appropriate clothing in your wardrobe, take advice of people around you going for the same function. Sometimes, it really helps.
Make sure to read whats on the invite for Dress code.
For the men, a nice suit, Tie/bow tie ( depending on the event), polished shoes and hair done well. And yes, clean shaved.
For the women, an age appropriate dress ( full length or knee length).
Accessories again play a big role in transforming an outfit from day to night.
Makeup- the right amount- remember less is more.
For the ladies, if this is your first try at heels, remember that practice makes perfect. You wouldn't want to tumble down those stairs and look all clumsy.

To sum it up, dress well, and walk confidently and make sure you look at yourself in a full length mirror before you walk out of your home.

Track Suits

Simple. Use them for where they're supposed to be used. The GYM. Not shopping. Certainly not the cinema. The Park? NO.
"The bed should be alright though, no one's looking at me then, and besides they're too comfortable". Um No. Thats why there are stores that sell really nice pyjamas for Men and Women and, for all those Women who want to feel sexy, there's alot of exquisite nightwear out there.

Accessorize

Belts, Bags, Shoes, Jewelry, Hats. These are the few things that can take an outfit from day to night.

This is applicable to Men and Women.

Color me Different

Living in Melbourne, I've noticed how much Black is the everything for most Melburnians.
Black, Grey, White. Nice but boring.
What happened to Red ( hot), Blue (peaceful), Yellow (bright)?

One morning when I opened my wardrobe ( after being in Melbourne for a year), I realised that Black took over me.

Colors and knowing how to mix them play a very important part of a person's wardrobe. It's important to bring out one's skin color.

Heels Heels Heels

Theyre the best thing that could happen to footwear. Remember its not about COMFORT.

Heels: the reason for its existence
1. Height
2. Butt enhancer
3. Gives the back a nice Curve
4. Confidence
5. Men love to see a woman who can strut that catwalk in a pair of nice heels

Stocktake Sale! Half Year Sale! Boxing Day Sale!

The best time to buy? Yes! But not anything and everything. 

Become a member or loyalty customer with stores that you like and get bombarded with lots of emails on specials offered.

Don't be in a hurry to shop. Remember most Brands have their stores in several places, so if you've liked something, and the next time you walk into the store, its not there, ask the person at the counter where the piece is available and order it in. But try before buying. Think and picture what you'll wear with it. 

Sales can be a great time to buy some really good stuff, but make sure that you will wear what you're buying. Don't get pieces that you want for the price and will never wear.

It's not Inner beauty

Once again.... Inner Beauty.... no will look at you if you're badly presented, so knowing you as a person is far off.

Nails, Hair, Skin, Makeup, Shave( for men), Toe nails, Shoes.

Theres alot that I know goes on in my mind when I'm looking at a person. Are their nails well kept? Why did he have to step out of his house if he's unshaved? Didn't she look at her hair before getting out of the house?
Whats with those torn shoes? Whats with those Pink cheeks? Eww... what awful toe nails... so unkempt!!

Manicures- Men, they're not only for women.
Pedicures- Men, again they're not only for women.

I know for a fact that when a person can't take care of themselves on the outside, how can it be possible for them to take care of them on the inside. They themselves don't care about their appearance.

Makeup shouldnt be overdone. Too much foundation can look cakey... too much eyeshadow can look too messy and dark, too much blush can give an impression that the person just did it blindly.

Men need to be clean shaved. It shows their face. It's important to see whats there below that beard.

Hair- if you can't understand how to take care of it due to it being too short, thin, dry, rough, badly colored, curly, frizzy, oily etc... pay a little bit more and go to an expert who can guide you well. Along with being good salespeople and selling you almost everything of their shelves, they are Creative too, and they've got good knowledge in the hair dept.

All this put together helps in making one feel better about themself.

The perfect body

What is the perfect body? In all this hoohaa of being a size zero or having a boob job or butt job...
We're all unique.
Theres nothing like that... I can easily tell you that even Victoria Beckham doesn't have it. She knows it. But, she'll ensure she wears the best fitted outfits to hide the flaw... and we'll never know it because she's successfully hidden it.
A woman who's got a big butt shouldnt try and hide it, get a nice pair of fitted jeans and show it off.
One with great bangers... a deep neck top ( not to show it off completely) would enhance them and make you feel good.
Find what part of your body you love the most.
For example, I know I don't have the perfect body. I have big feet , theyre flat, but I know that no one's going to go into my shoe to measure how flat they are. I've got a birthmark on my face. I've got a small bust line. I've got fat thighs.
But along with that, I've got great lower legs, nice long arms, a nice back and brains that know how to make them and my bust look great.

Its all about wearing the outfit that suits your shape, of a good size and enhances your best parts.

The Need to Dress Well

Regardless of what body shape one has,  and what size they are, it's really important to be able to find the best clothes to suit that shape. Being skinny doesn't mean that you're allowed to wear really tight fitted stuff from head to toe or being overweight does not mean that you should wear baggy clothes. It just makes things look worse.
I know it can be difficult to find the 'Right' outfit or the perfect fit... remember that Tailors ( magicians who can create that Perfect fit) do exist.
It's all about how you're looked at, and regardless of people going on about "beauty is from within" and all that crap, they (those same people) will not talk (forget look) to you if you're dressed like umm...Crap.
More so, what you wear should make you feel good.
The girls at SATC ( Sex & the City) say that its not about comfort. To a certain extent, that's true.
Confidence comes from dressing well, feeling good. Its not about the perfect body. No one has it...