Shree Raj Mahal Jewellers India Couture Week 2014-Day 2

Ashok Goel, Kangana  Ranaut, Anju Modi and Pardeep Goel

Designer Anju Modi opted for ethnic gold from Shree Raj Mahal Jewelers for her show at the India Couture Week 2014 on day 2! Elaborate bridal chokers and kadas in modern designs and earrings in ethnic and traditional gold flaunted the dexterity of Indian craftsmanship and spoke of the lavishness of Indian weddings. Modi creatively paired neck pieces around models’ hair, which added glam to the outfits; these neck pieces can also be worn as kamarbandhs. The intricate work on the fabrics, imperial cuts and stately silhouettes made these bridal-wears a big hit!
 

Noyonika Chatterjee

Shree Raj Mahal Jewellers India Couture Week 2014-Day 2

Nimrat Kaur, Rina Dhaka and Malaika Arora Khan with models

Inspired by the iconography of gota work of Rajasthan, designer Rina Dhaka takes her designs to a whole new level this time at the India Couture Week, day 2! Her outfits look regal with undertones of her matchless aesthetics and soft sensual appeal. In her latest collection, the designer has re-created a new sense of style for the gota patti work, placed delicately, contouring sequined sheers and lace. Her designs surfaced convoluted embroidery elements from Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh, laid lovingly in a lace like manner.

Techniques of zardozi, kamdani, ari and lace and metallic gota have been juxtaposed with tonal beading and soft embroidery to create a saga of romance. Gota patti and zardozi are set against lace backdrop, contrasted by Mughal animal paintings, depicted on fur-lined velvet capes.

The Dreamer--Turning dreams into reality, Bollywood actor Raj Kumar is racing against the odds in the industry to make a mark

Actor Raj Kumar

A prodigy of Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), Pune, Raj Kumar is living his dreams today – he dreamt of gracing the silver screen since he was in school. From his debut as Adarsh in Dibakar Banerjee’s critically acclaimed movie Love, Sex Aur Dhokha to playing Govind in super hit film Kai Po Che, he has proved that he can flawlessly bend genres. Kumar is one of the few actors who have made it big in the industry without having a God father’s hand.

When did you have your first stint with the camera?

I was in fifth grade when our school dance group had gone to Prasar Bharti for a show. I played Gandhi and I still remember how happy we all were. I always wanted to become an actor; arts, theatre and acting have always arrested my thoughts. But I decided to be an actor when I was in the ninth grade.

How did Kai Po Che happen?

The casting director asked me to audition for Govind’s role and I got it (smiles). The entire journey was so memorable. I took back truck loads of wonderful experiences from Kai Po Che. The best part was that we all gelled superbly well and became like one big happy family. All the actors were very serious about this film and everybody put up their best show to make it a big hit. I learnt a lot from each one of them. If I have to pick one memorable moment from the shooting days then it would be the day we shot the dance sequence where all three lead cast were shirtless. This was not part of the script. Sushant and Amit had a little bit of alcohol and they randomly took their shirts off and started dancing like nobody is watching them. I was parked at a corner and I was watching them. They went wild and they roped me in, tore my shirt and we danced our hearts out. Someone shot the whole thing and later the director was so happy to see this; he eventually added the sequence in the film.

Tell us about your childhood…

I am born and brought up in Gurgaon. I graduated from Delhi University in arts and since then I developed keen interest in theatre. Post my graduation I moved to FTII, Pune for masters in acting. Days spent in Pune are by far the golden days of my life – I was acting, breathing and thinking films. With the plethora of ideas and creativity booming in the campus air, I learnt so much from my very talented batch mates and brilliant professors.

Would you care to share some fond childhood memories?

I was a complete filmy kid. I watched Agneepath continuously for three weeks and I moulded myself into Amitabh Bachchan’s character and would beat the shit out of my brothers.

Are you planning to get married anytime soon? What kind of girl are you looking for?

I have already found my match; her name is Anwita, I met her at FTII; she was working on some project in our college and we played the part of a newly married couple and rest is history (gushes). We have been dating for a couple of years now and she is an actor too.

How has your life changed after Bollywood happened?

What I miss the most is personal space. When you are on the streets, you will find so many eyes glued at you, but that’s fine because back in Delhi even I would do the same when any celeb was spotted. Once me and Anwita went to watch a movie and we held each other’s hands; the next day there was a big story about how we indulged in extreme PDA. This is a big problem but sigh!

If you could rectify one mistake you made in your life, what would it be?

As I mentioned before, I was a full on filmy kid so whenever I would see a hero with a new hairdo, I would immediately try it on myself. I ended up experimenting with the most bizarre looks. I guess I would like to change that.

What was the turning point of your life?

Clearing the FTII entrance examination at one go and finally setting my first step on the campus has been the turning point of my life.

What do you have a fetish for?

I have a fetish for travelling and exploring new destinations. My favourite city of all time is Amsterdam.

Apart from acting, what do you like to do?

Off late I have developed an interest in photography. My flat mate is into photography, he is a DOP (director of photography), so he has the best of shutterbugs and lenses, and I am good to go (laughs).

If not an actor, what would you have been?

I would not be anything but an actor. I would direct someday maybe.

Has your perception of Bollywood changed after you became part of the industry?

It has changed a lot. Earlier I used to think that actors are so lucky – driving good cars, living to the fullest, travelling, etcetera. However, reality is very contrasting because so much hard work goes into making a film.

What is the craziest thing you have ever done?

I would rather call them stupid. After watching Ghulam I went and stood on a railway track and enacted the scariest scene where Amir Khan jumps right before the train comes in front of him. And I was in ninth grade only.

What is your favourite book?

It has to be Charlie Chaplin’s autobiography.

The Mood Dresser--Glam icon, Shibani Dandekar has been the talk of the town for her gorgeous sense of style and grace

Shibani Dandekar

What is your biggest fashion asset?

I’d have to say my huge assortment of accessories. I have a huge fetish for collecting accessories; wherever I travel, be it Australia, London, New York and so on, I make sure I pick up funky, vintage stuff.

What according to you are the five wardrobe essentials for women?

Honestly, there is no specific answer to this question; however, I feel, wardrobe essential is an individualistic approach – it defines one’s personality and style quotient. For me, my wardrobe should always house the classic black and gold combination, lot of accessories, prints, and boots and off late I am very much into carrying smaller hand bags. Also, you will always find chic vintage pieces in my wardrobe, which I continuously keep collecting. Wardrobe essentials keep changing with varying trends.

What kinds of makeup do you usually like to wear?

I usually like to use a very light base followed by bronzer, which brings out a tanned look. I really don’t like to look too fair and pale because Indian skin is usually on the duskier side and I love flaunting it. Mascara is a must for me and finally bold lip colours finish my look. I have a huge collection of bold-coloured lipsticks, from different hues of reds and oranges to fuchsia and pinks...

Tell us about your favourite Indian and International designers...

On the international front, I love Vivienne Westwood, Alexander McQueen and Stella McCartney. Amongst Indian designers, I admire works of Sailex, Payal Singhal, Masaba Gupta, Rina Dhaka, Rocky S and Namrata Joshipura.

What is your most expensive buy?

I collect sunglasses and I think I own almost every existing brand. From Tom Ford to Gucci, Prada, Victoria Beckham – I have it all and collectively I spend the most for my shades.

What are your favourite shoe and bag brands?

I don’t necessarily work by brands; I mostly pick up stuff that looks good. However I am a big fan of Christian Louboutin and Jimmy Choo when it comes to shoes. As far as bags are concerned, my current favourite is a black leather bag from Chloe.   

What is that one thing that completes your look every day?

I know it sounds clichéd but I have to say its personality that makes or breaks a look. You can go all edgy or classy, elegant or perhaps casual but unless you own that look you can’t pull it off. I dress according to my mood. On a lazy day you will find me in rip tees and baggy jeans; on days when I feel classy, you will find me in black and gold.

What do you do on a bad hair day?

I have figured out this new technique that always works wonders. A high, chic bun with one section of the hair braided around it is the best way to camouflage a bad hair day. Otherwise just put on a hat (smiles).

Who is your favourite fashion icon?

I love Sienna Miller because she dresses for nobody but herself. I find her extremely classy, trendy and fashionable. She doesn’t blindly succumb to trends and she looks effortlessly stylish.

Who is the most fashionable person in your family?

All three sisters are fashionable (laughs). Apeksha is a little bit casual; she likes quirky and grunge. On the other hand, Anusha is very boho chic all the time.

Who are the best dressed actors in Bollywood according to you?

When it comes to fashion scene in Bollywood, it has a long way to go. People here are too boxed into one-dimensional dressing and looks. Fashion has just started to get serious here. However, I like Sonam Kapoor and Rahul Khanna’s dressing sense. They do it fabulously!  

Any fashion confessions?

Everything was trial and error. I have no regrets because you do what you feel at that moment. Fashion is a medium of self expression for me and it will always be an individual choice.

What will you be wearing if you had to go on a first date?

If it’s a first date then I will be really casual – jeans, off shoulder tee, some accessories and natural makeup. Too dolled up often takes away the real personality and on a first date I would rather be myself.

Do you like following trends?

I like to take things that work best for me from trends. This season, I am all gaga about Aztec prints and my wardrobe is filled with them.

What according to you is the most fashionable city in India?

It has to be Goa. This place is all about colours, livelihood and vibrancy.

Where do you like to shop from?

I shop from all around the world. Whenever I am travelling I end up shopping a lot. But Masaba and Zara are like staple.

Tell us about your favourite makeup brands...

Hands down – it is MAC! Always.

The Designer Who Needs No Introduction--Manish Malhotra's designs and aesthetic values have put him on a pedestal higher than ever. Let's take a sneak-peak into his world of fashion and luxury

Manish Malhotra with Kajol and Karishma Kapoor

From designing for the divas of Bollywood, to decking up real life brides, designer Manish Malhotra has carved out a niche for himself in the topography of fashion and luxury industry in India and abroad. He speaks about his core concepts of building up a luxury brand and how to sustain in a cut-throat competitive world.

What’s the most fashionable Bollywood film till date?

I feel Dil Chahta Hai, Student of the Year and Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani in the last two decades and Pakeezah from the 1970s are some of the most fashionable films produced by the Indian film fraternity.

When did you realise that being a designer is your true calling?

I always knew I wanted to be an artist. The thought of designing came in eventually though.

Tell us about your first break in Bollywood?

My first break in Bollywood happened in 1986 with the movie Swarg.

Madhuri Dixit in Manish Malhotra

Brides or Bollywood – what gives you more creative satisfaction?

They both have equal importance in my life. I am a costume designer and a fashion couturier. I started my career with styling. The movies that I style for are always very character driven, whereas for bridal-wear, I keep the needs of the consumers in mind.  I visualize the woman who will be wearing my outfit while designing my bridal pieces, but in movies it is more character-centric styling, so I have to think of the character and the actor playing that particular role. However, in both the areas I have to be creative. Yes, they are all inter-connected and I always follow my creative instinct, whether it is for styling or designing, everything else falls in place gradually.

You introduced the concept of showstoppers here – what are your thoughts on it? Who’s your favourite showstopper?

For me, it all started with my first collection where my dear friend, Urmila Matondkar was my muse for that show. I started the concept of showstopper very unintentionally in order to bring some element of newness and today it has become a trend, followed by one and all. I think showstoppers in my shows, rather than taking away all the limelight, always add a little more character to my designs.

Where do you think the Indian fashion industry is headed?

The Indian fashion industry today is headed to a great scenario of globalization with Indian styles becoming the new International ramp looks. For example, the admiration for this classic bandhgala is evident worldwide. The bandhgala is one of those few Indian silhouettes that have found international acclaim. Giorgio Armani has been making them for some time now, Canali has come up with the ‘Nawab Jacket’, and the modernised versions by Tom Ford and Paul Smith are helping the brands establish themselves in India.

Manish Malhotra with Kareena Kapooor

What has been the biggest change in the Indian Fashion Industry?

The fashion industry in India has evolved beautifully, particularly in the last 20 years. Boundaries of the industry started to expand, like the West learning that India is glamorous, and that the sari is the most sensuous garment in the whole wide world. Men have now embraced pink overcoming the stereotypical thinking; an anarkali is as stylish as an evening gown. We see a lot of celebrities embracing our Indian culture like the bandhgala Jacket and the sari at various international events. Many such examples tell us the story of an evolving fashion industry.

What advice do you have for designers breaking into the industry?

Just do what you love, be passionate about your work, it will take you places.

The Fashion Goddess--Sonam Kapoor has been charming hearts of millions across the world with her wonderful sense of fashion and style. She calls herself a ‘dramatic dresser’ but it is blanketed elegantly in cloaks of sophistication

In the kingdom of showbiz, actor Sonam Kapoor has been crowned as the queen of fashion. It’s been a phoenix-like rise for her in the Indian film industry--starting from her first appearance in Sanjay Leela Bansali’s Saawariya to films like Aisha, Raanjhanaa, Bhaag Milkha Bhaag and more. Her sense of style is eccentric, rather she personifies the quintessence of experimental fashion. “My sortie into the industry of fashion and glamour has been quite an amazing one. I worked with many designers but so far I have loved most working with my very dear friend Pernia Qureshi. I was introduced to her by my sister and ever since then it’s been a fashion galore for me. Our aesthetic values and understanding of fashion is absolutely in sync; I trust her sense of styling with all my heart,” avers Kapoor.

The diva believes in dressing for nobody but herself. “In the end, it is not for the sake of being ultra-glamourous but being comfy,” she says with a sparkling smile.

This pretty lady is a regular at Cannes and she sets the paparazzi on a roll with her larger-than-life presence. She overwhelms the international media with custom made Dolce and Gabanna gowns; brands like Armani, Prada, Ferragamo, Cavalli and Burberry have become the fashion of the hour with the sultry goddess making them a regular deal.

Fashion quotient:

Being the most adoring connoisseur of fashion and beautiful things in life, Kapoor is a dramatic dresser. “I admire beautiful things and beautiful people. It is such a visual delight to see well-dressed people. Fashion and style is something that I love to cultivate; I read lot of books and magazines; I watch many movies and try to be part of fashion shows to keep myself hooked on to the latest happenings in the world of fashion. Over the years, my sense of styling or shopping for that matter has changed in a much refined way; the more the exposure, the better is the consequence. But what I really believe is that looking beautiful is profoundly related to being fit,” she ushers.

Fashionista’s muse:

“I am pretty gusty when it comes to following trends. I rather set trends and not fit myself into something just because it’s in vogue,” informs Kapoor. Her fashion sensibilities are stimulated by the archetypes of fashion, like, Audrey Hepburn, Alexandra McQueen, Katharine Hepburn and Coco Chanel. “And in India, I love the way Meena Kumari, Madhubala and Sharmila Tagore have expressed themselves in terms of fashion. In contemporary times, I love the way Kalki Koechilin dresses up; she is bold and at the same time she dresses for herself,” she adds.

The shopaholic:

Kapoor loves shopping! And her favourite designers are, Anamika Khanna, Anuradha Vakil, Rohit Bal, Chanel, Alexandra McQueen, Jean Paul Gaultier and John Galliano. Not only clothes, the sexy siren has a major fetish for accessories too. “I adore accessories, be it jewellery, shoes, watches, bags, anything at all!” 

She shops from across the world--London, Paris, New York and more. “But my favourite shopping destination is Dilli. You get the best stuff here,” she affirms. When in Mumbai, she loves digging vintage from Bungalow 8. However, Kapoor also indulges in the pleasures of street shopping, especially when in Delhi. “I love buying jewellery and sandals from Delhi,” she states.

Her closet:

The lady says, “My wardrobe is my temple.” She has a walk-in closet, wherein she keeps her most expensive buys to the simplest of stuff with much love. “I cherish my clothes and accessories from the bottom of my heart,” she gushes. However, being the perfectionist that she is, when it comes to proper dressing and maintenance of her ensembles, Kapoor re-shuffles her wardrobe twice a year. “My wardrobe is my haven. But, I don’t like to stash everything together; so I neatly pack stuff and display it in such a way that I can peek at them,” she signs off.