Fashion Mantra

Tips to Fight The Dreaded Split Ends

2012-01-28T05:56:00.000-08:00

There are many hair problems that young girls have to face due to excessive use of chemicals, flat iron, curling rods or even hair dryers. The hair problems can lead to rough looking hair which cause a major problem and that is the split ends hair problem. The split ends hair problem is something that cannot be cured directly. For such hair problems, certain precautionary measures can be taken so that you can have beautiful hair that is free from damage like the split ends hair problem. If you already have split ends, the only way to get rid of them is to cut your hair.

It is very important to know your hair type and the type of hair problems you are going through apart from the split ends hair problem. For example, oily hair is completely different from dry. Know your hair type first of all. To identify split ends hair problem in your hair, check the lower ends of your hair. If you find split strands emerging from a single strand of your hair, you have found the root to your hair problems. This actually is a split end. Since you have found your split ends hair problem, get your hair cut as soon as you can. Make sure you get a haircut every six to eight weeks. Cut them up to a length of one inch on a regular basis. Trimming them is the most important thing.

Oil your hair if you actually want to get rid of the damage being caused by split ends hair problem. Oiling is the key solution to almost all types of hair problems. The right amount of oil will keep your hair nourished and damages like the split ends hair problem will not occur. It is best if you oil your hair before every wash, however oiling weekly also proves to be helpful. Once you are about to wash your hair after oiling them, wash them with a shampoo that has less amount of harmful chemicals and the one that suits your hair type too. You will have to experiment a few times to get to have the perfect shampoo for yourself.

For proper nourishment, you need to condition your hair on a regular basis too. Use a good quality hair conditioner that suits your hair type and will not cause any other hair problems to start. Never apply hair conditioner on the scalp. This will lead to hair fall and you certainly do not want other hair problems to start apart from your already existing split ends hair problem. Do not use products that say they will leave your hair free from split ends because you never know they might cause other hair problems.

Try to dry your hair naturally and stay away from hair dryers. Do not rub your hair vigorously as that can lead to breakage due to your split ends hair problem. Brushing wet hair is not a good option either. Just leave them the way they are. Keep your hair away from excessive sunlight and pollution because these things also cause split ends hair problem. Too much exposure to heat damages the hair. Use a swimming cap to cover your hair whenever you go out for swimming. It is also important to wash your hair with cold water as hot water will absorb the moisture from your hair and will leave it dry so that the chance of split ends hair problem is more.

Follow the above mentioned easy tips to get rid of the split ends hair problem and make them healthy by eating a good and healthy diet that is rich in proteins and proper vitamins. You are sure to have beautiful, healthy hair that is free from all types of hair problems.

Homemade Body Spa Recepies

2012-01-27T06:06:00.000-08:00

Antiperspirants work by clogging, closing, or blocking the pores with powerful astringents -- such as aluminum salts -- so that they cannot release perspiration. Many natural health care proponents argue against using aluminum because it accumulates in the brain.

Deodorants work by neutralizing the smell of the perspiration mixed with "body dust" (skin, hair and other bacterial goodies we carry around on ourselves all day), and by antiseptic action against that bacteria. Deodorants are more healthful because they don’t interfere with perspiration, a natural cooling process.

Here are a few simple recipes, which are fun to make because they can customized with your favorite scents. We don't always have to smell "powder fresh" or "sunshine fresh." I prefer ylang ylang, myself. -- Editor

Baking Soda: Baking soda works wonders because it neutralizes the odor of sweat. Just sprinkle a light covering of baking soda onto a damp washcloth. Pat on. Don’t rinse.

Basic Deodorant Powder: 1/2 cup baking soda, 1/2 cup cornstarch, a few drops essential oils such as lavender or cinnamon, or try cedar and sage for men. Place the ingredients in a glass jar. Shake to blend. Sprinkle a light covering of the powder on a damp washcloth. Pat on. Do not rinse.

Basic Liquid Deoderant:1/4 cup each witch hazel extract, aloe vera gel, and mineral water, 1 teaspoon vegetable glycerin, a few drops antibacterial essential oils such as lavender, or tea tree. Combine the ingredients in a spray bottle. Shake to blend. Makes 3/4 cup with an indefinite shelf life.

Quick and effective deodorants : Simply put some apple cider vinegar in a spray bottle and apply under the arms. When it dries...its smell is gone. It works for me a minimum of 14 hours. It even cleared up a small mild rash from the regular store deodorant I stopped using.

After shave : it will consists of preparing peppermint tea using two teabags and let it steep until cool. Place in spray bottle...

Latest Diamond Rings

2012-01-27T05:32:00.000-08:00

Rings are one of the most popular jewelery product among the people. Depending on the situation and occasion different types of rings are given and bought like diamond ring, gold ring, platinum ring.

Diamonds are symbol of love. Their strength represent and symbolizes the power of bond of love. But this is not only important for brides and grooms, it is passed from one generation to another as a blessing from the elders.

The history of rings is so old that when it was first wore as an ornament of fashion it alone shines at that time and all the remains were ashes and darkness.

Kings used it as a symbol of power or sometimes as a mark of slavery, love emphasizes its importance in the heart of someone and friendship place it into the memories.

The tradition of giving and receiving of rings is almost four thousand and eight hundred (4,800) years old. The use of ring for the purpose of wedding was dated back to 16th and 17th century when Henry Swinburne talked about it in his book marriage.

The finger of our hand known as ring finger has some little logic behind it to be known as ring finger. It is an old belief that the vein of this finger is directly connected to a heart.

Some popular brands of diamonds are Tiffany, Danhov, Leon Popov etc.

3,04 and 06 piece stylish nighties

2012-01-25T05:12:00.000-08:00

Latest and Stylish Nighties

2012-01-24T05:02:00.000-08:00

MEHNDI OR MAYOON DRESSES PREPARATIONS

2012-01-23T06:52:00.000-08:00

MEHNDI & MAYOON TYPICALLY TAKES PLACE ONE OR TWO DAYS PRIOR TO THE MAIN WEDDING DAY....
                         MAYOON OR MAYOON OR MEHNDI
IZ CELEBRATED AT THE BRIDE'S HOUSE..
                         USUALLY TH BRIDE'S FRNDS & CLOSE RELATIVES GET TOGETHER AT HER HOUSE & THY DANCE,,, SING ,,, OFTEN ACCOMPAINED BY DRUM MUSIC....
                          THE BRIDE N HER FRNDS WERE A GREEN,YELLOW,ORANGE, FOR A MEHNDI YA MAYOON....
                          THE GROOM WILL TYPICALL WEAR CAUSAL SHALWER KAMEEZ...
THE BRIDE N OR TH GROOM R BROUGHT FORWORD IN THE CEREMONY UNDER A DECORATIVE DUPATTA BY THEIR CLOSE RELATIVES....A RECENT TREND THAT HAS BEEN GAINING POPULARITY IZ TO ANNOUNCE A COLOUR THEME FOR THE MEHNDI WHERBY GUESTS R SUPPOSED TO DRESS UP IN A PARTICULAR COLOUR... FAVOURITE MEHNDI COLOURS R BRIGHT RED,ORANGES,YELLOW...

FASHION Of Gems & Stones

2012-01-16T05:28:00.000-08:00

Every bride wants to look stunning on her b-day. She wants everything perfect from the selection of attire and make-up to jewellery for the most special event of her life. A vast variety of imitation trinkets have turned this daunting task into a hassle-free activity.

It is a disposable option and not meant to be handed down through generations. It has become a hot fashion trend that can add the touch of elegance and show fashion sense.

Imitation ornaments like artificial rings, chains, earrings and fashion bracelets in traditional and modern styles are generally popular among women of all ages. Artificial jewellery is made of materials including metals, glass, plastic, shells, wood and fake or artificial stones, and sometimes precious stones and gems, in the case of valuable jewellery. Exotic materials and novel designing are used for creating beautiful and eye-catching pieces. Shell, oxidised, silver and gold plated, stone-studded articles are a craze among girls. Another great choice for artificial trinkets are casual costume jewellery, it can be worn for long hours as they are made of durable material, which does not lose its shine and sheer. It is also perfectly fit for all kinds of festivities and functions and can be worn with both modern as well as traditional outfits. It is available in ornamental patterns and in simple and sober designs. If you are afraid to wear gold on your wedding day, pick this dazzling golden set with small silver diamonds and precious stones. If simple and stylist is your demand then this tear-dropped maroon and emerald green kundan necklace will definitely be your choice. Ask any woman for what she likes in her jewellery trove and notice that fascinating kundan sets remain on top of the list as they are always in demand. Presently, a lot of jewellery designers, in order to fulfill their customers' desires are launching pure gold kundan jewellery with collections in the colours of the rainbow. Kundan is easily the most dramatic way of setting stones. The method, even if simple, requires a high level of competence and craftsmanship. It is considered the most magnificent piece of jewellery for the males in weddings in old Rajput families. The karnaphool is a motif that recurs in kundan as well. They are made more elaborate with jhumka-shaped like a small umbrella. Large stones in the jewellery are a trend nowadays. Pick this gorgeous set with striking contrast of green and silver for the reception party and make your special moments memorable with this eye-catching collection.

Hair & Make-up: Joyce @ Fahim Burney Saloon
Co-ordination: Syed Zakir Hussain
Photography & Styling: Yasser Sadiq
Models: Falak Sheikh, Esal & Mahum Javed

Latest Winter Collection by Gul Ahmed 2012

2012-01-14T10:53:00.000-08:00

Latest Winter Collection by Gul Ahmed 2012

Pakistan’s leading clothing brand Gul Ahmed introduces fresh Winter Collection by Gul Ahmed 2012 with each piece being entirely unique and appealing.

Latest Winter Collection by Gul Ahmed 2012

Latest Winter Collection by Gul Ahmed 2012 consists of long kurtis, open shirts, short choori pajama patterns, embroidered neck designs, cuts neck-line, self prints, angrakha fashion, U kurti style and double shirt. All are in diverse color blends and capture colorful outlook for winter.

Latest Mehdi bridal collection at International Fashion Festival 2011

2012-01-14T10:51:00.000-08:00

Latest Mehdi bridal collection at International Fashion Festival 2011

Latest bridal collection by fashion designer Mehdi presented at the International Fashion Festival 2011 is ornamented with glittery sequin and detailed sparkling embellishments. The collection incorporates saris, lehengas, churi dar pajamas with long shirts for brides and a wide range of lavish sherwanis for groom.

Mehdi bridal collection at International Fashion Festival 2011 is toyed with opulent hues and fine crafting techniques to lend eccentricity to the designs created by designer Mehdi.

Winter Collection Pakistani Fashion Designer by Ittehad Linnen

2012-01-14T10:46:00.000-08:00

Winter Collection Pakistani Fashion Designer by Ittehad Linnen

Winter is an amazing season where you feel good about everything around you. You like to dress up because the heat is not scorching and your makeup doesn’t melt. Often skin tends to glow if you keep it moistened. In winters one loves to dress up for in door and especially outdoor events. Ittehad Textile Mills is one of the leading ones in the country. They have recently introduced their Ittehad Winnter Collection 2012 which is going to blow you away. It is so fresh and the colors are deep and amazing. They are the perfect winter colors. These colors also compliment your skin tone.

Ittehad Linnen Collection 2012 will keep you warm in winters and the fabric is extremely comfortable and the flow of your dresses will be incredible as well. The collection is perfect for winters, one will not look over dressed or under dressed in these prints. They can be worn to an outdoor lunch or brunch and can also be worn on an evening affair. Neha Ahmed has modeled for the collection and the catalogue is also available. You can choose the perfect dress which matches with your personality and taste and visit an Ittehad outlet and buy it for the winters this year.

The collection includes a range of deep colors such as deep purple which looks great in winters. There are other colors in the collection as well such as different shades of blue and maroons. Blue might be looked at as a summer color but it also looks great in winters. The motives used in the collection are ethnic but the way you get them stitched can be contemporary so that both should complement each other. Ittehad winter collection 2012 has something in store for every age group. You can choose the right print for yourself no matter I you are a young girl or an adult. You can also accessorize it with matching shawls and ethnic jewelry.

Pakistan Wedding Photography Studio

2012-01-14T10:42:00.000-08:00

Pakistan Wedding Photography Studio

Alisha studio is wedding Event photo and video specialist Company. It was initiated 1991 as Karachi Wedding photography along with the progress and achievements, and exclusive photo studio through the years many improvement and progress have been achieved and this is done with scientific knowledge on photography, lighting and colors, as well as the used of high-tech applications but above all your satisfaction is guaranteed whether you are interested photograph generalist or a traditional style wedding, family portraits, model or commercial photography, corporate & political events or sport coverage, photo by Khalid is the Studio you want to choose for all of your photographic & video Services.

Alisha Studio bring unique & artistic vision to your wedding or portrait session & will provide you with a wide variety of professional images. we’ll work with you to create the package of both photography & videography for your special day. But best of all, you get the owner & operator, whose name & reputation are his business. We promise to give you um-paralleled value for your investment while offering a selection of packages to accommodate your budget.

Address: Shop # 26-C/I, 6th Commercial Lane,Zamzama Boulevard, Phase V, Defence Housing Authority, Karachi, Pakistan-75950

Email    alishastudio@hotmail.com
Phone    0300-9260698, 0321-9260698
Website    http://www.alishastudio.com

Evening Beauty Tips

2012-01-12T20:18:00.001-08:00

Evening beauty tips are for those women who go to work, take care of the kids and are yet social. These beauty tips will give them an evening look with just a few tricks. Evening look seems to be very hard to attain but in reality it is not true. There are certain things that you add and there you are ready for a lovely evening. Firstly always keep an extra pair of shoes in your car because shoes can change the entire look of your outfit. Especially heels have the quality to make you look more dressed and in an evening wear. Black or nude heels will be the best option since they match with almost every outfit. Heels should be for formal evenings or dinners.

The second evening beauty tip is your hairstyle. There are certain tricks that you can do with your hair to get the perfect evening look after a daylong work. Always keep pony tails and bobby pins in your cosmetic pouch. You can always make a messy bun will bobby pins and a pony tail which will look perfect for an evening. Makeupis another important beauty tip which works the best for an evening look. A lipstick can change your look entirely; wear a darker shade of lipstick after work when you are going out for an evening. Put on thicker eye-liner and lots of mascara. These things are extremely handy and you can make a little pouch with all these essentials in your bag and carry it all the time.

Jewelry can be another evening beauty tip since it has the potential to transform your outfit and outlook and it is so easy that it can also be done in the car. Keep a necklace of pearls of earrings that you can quickly put on while going somewhere straight from work. In case you know that you have to go somewhere after work beforehand then wear something more flexible that can easily be transformed after work. Perfume is a must have in your bag which you can spray on and feel fresh and also appealing to everybody around you.

Fashion trends 2012

2012-01-12T20:15:00.000-08:00

KARACHI: With lawn madness on its way and fashion weeks about to kick off, we quizzed our favourite fashion designers, journalists and retailers to tell us what they’re going to be retailing, stocking, writing and raving about this year.

Muted menswear
Imam: The focus should be on muted, masculine colours like beige, shades of grey, sand, navy blue, black and white with minimalistic details such as piping on shalwar kameezes. Designers will learn that extravagant and experimental and over-embellishment does not work for the fashion-shy Pakistani male.
Colour blocking
Imam: Designers will find creative ways to use the trend of colour blocking with neutral tones such as white, tan, black, sandstone, honey and ink blue.
Rahimtoola: Colour blocking is a trend poised to take off in a big way. If done right, the contrasting colours can spice up any wardrobe. Sharp colours will be big this year.
Sayeed: Colours in 2012 will be in shades of terracotta red or sea green.
Budget-friendly fabrics/outfits
Rahimtoola: Due to recession and rising cost of living, outfits in cotton/lawn fabric will continue to be popular. With Ramazan and Eid on the summer calendar, we will see a move from heavier embellished outfits to more structured outfits with greater importance given to cuts and styling.
The death of the flowy kameez?
Sayeed: I believe this year would be all about simplicity and elegance. Silhouettes will be longer — not short and tight — at least not for subcontinental women.”
Rahimtoola: The long, loose silhouette which has been prevalent for the last few years will go out of style. This year will witness the return of a fitted, structured silhouette with raised hemlines and decreased volume.
Imam: Local designers should experiment with the short kameez and bring shirt lengths up to the knee. I also wish to see a 1920s and 1960s influence with drop-waist baby-doll silhouettes. Embellishments should not be so ‘blingy’ but more textured and experimental with interesting beading.
Pants versus shalwar
Rahimtoola: Fitted pants are making a comeback paired with knee-length tops and tunics.
Sayeed: The shalwar is not coming back this year, as it was previously being thought. The classic shalwar will continue but only with a select few.”
A year of separates
Khan: 2012 will be the year of the separates — women will invest in one special piece whether it is a trouser or top, long or short and put it together with something they already have.
Footwear fads
Imam: Footwear will be in all kinds of bright colours; red, yellow, camel, blue and green. Suede chappals in every other colour imaginable will be en vogue.
Team of fashion experts
• Fashion journalists — Mohsin Sayeed and Zurain Imam
• Labels retailer — Zahir Rahimtoola
• Designer — Maheen Khan

Stylish Bags For The Winters

2012-01-12T20:11:00.001-08:00

There are a lot of attributes that tell much about a woman’s style and taste. Other than the dressing sense, the accessories that a woman carries are a true depicter of her personality and taste in fashion. With the changing season changes the fashion and the new colors of the season grab the attention of the masses. So is the case with the accessories in fashion. The bags, for example, change their size, shape and handle size as well; moving on in accordance with the latest trends of fashion.

Pakistani stylish hand bags for the winter trend this year are also grabbing the attention of the ladies of all ages. The winter trend in Pakistani bags, however, has a large variety for the ladies to pick from. There are all kinds of bags for all occasions. You can choose from the casual totes to stylish hand bags and beaded clutches and pouches for the wonderful formal evenings.

Totes

The winter trend for the Pakistani stylish hand bags calls for the large totes for your casual days. If you are a college going young girl or an elegant working lady, a tote is the right selection for your requirement. You can easily carry a lot of small accessories with you in your tote. A tote might have a small handle or a large handle; both are in fashion for the winter trend in Pakistani bags.

Doctor’s bag

A large box bag with a short handle is the latest in fashion and looks really elegant if you carry it casually or semi formally. Many international designers around the world like Marc Jacobs and the fashion houses like Louis Vuitton have these stylish doctor’s bags in their latest collections. These are really stylish hand bags and are very practical. They have a very chic look and are very attractive and feminine. The colors are very practical and women of all ages can find a piece of their choice in these stylish Pakistani bags.
Sheer Clutches

The formal evenings can become even more stylish if you carry with you a smart looking sheer beaded clutch bag. Even if you are wearing a more simple and elegant dress; a stylish clutch bag can make your look more profound and decent. You can find a wonderful clutch bag with a golden chain; which is by the way, Chanel’s signature look.

Pouches

Young girls who don’t want to carry a clutch bag but to carry some accessories with them to the formal evenings should go for the sheer pouches. They really look very trendy and give a very traditional Pakistani look. You can find them in various sizes and colors. The beaded sheer pouches are very much in fashion and you might find very elegant pieces in them as well.

Dramatic Hair & Makeup Looks

2012-01-07T21:00:00.000-08:00

Here's how to pull off glitter, shimmer, and feathers in ways that are show stopping

Multibraid Bun
Try this chignon with a twist when you don't have time to wash your hair. Brush your hair into a low ponytail. Split the ponytail into three sections of varying thickness, then braid each section. Next, take one of the braids and wind it around the base of the two remaining braids. Bobby-pin it in place as you wind, to form the base of the bun. Do the same with the remaining braids until you have a complete bun. If your hair is short, here's a different strategy: Pull your hair back to the extent that you can, slide in an elastic or a barrette, and build the chignon using a clip-in braided extension.
Peacock Eyes
For the iridescent effect, apply a skin-toned primer on your entire lid to prevent creasing. Then top with a richly pigmented blue shadow. Next, apply a bright violet shadow on just the lid's center – the most visible part – for added drama. And to really set the look aflutter, glue on feather eyelashes.
Shimmery Lips
Nothing gives you a little razzle-dazzle quite like sparkle. For the elegant mega-wattage of the look, you'll need a double dose of colour. First apply glittery lipstick, then follow with a just-as-sparkly gloss in a similar colour for extra intensity and shine. If you want to play it safer, you can simply top the lipstick with a pat of shimmery metallic eye shadow in the centre of your lower lip. This gives you a more subtle, less wet effect. This technique also produces longer-lasting results, since the powder seals in the creamy base.
Feathered Ponytail
Plumes send your style quotient soaring, and they're a sophisticated way to get in on the hair-feather trend. First you'll have to take a trip to the craft store for a multifeather plume. One that contrasts with your hair colour gives you an eye-catching (and head-turning) effect. Next, gather your hair into a high ponytail and secure it with an elastic. Slip the base of the feather under the elastic, then wrap a thin section of hair from the ponytail around the elastic to hide it. Hold the wrap and the feather in place with one strategically placed bobby pin.
Glitter-dipped Lashes
This fanciful touch is just barely noticeable – until someone gets close. You'll need: a set of false lashes, an eyelash adhesive, a straight pin, and fine glitter. First cover the tips of the false lashes with eyelash adhesive. Separate them with the straight pin as needed. While the lash tips are still wet, dip them in the glitter; set them aside to dry for about 10 minutes. Next, apply the lash adhesive to the lash strips and place them on your lids, as close to the lash lines as possible. For a toned-down effect, not to mention a less ambitious art project, coat your lashes in black mascara, then sweep a glittery mascara onto just the lash tips.
An Elaborate Updo
Like a meringue cake, this style will earn you huge points for presentation and is relatively easy to produce. The key is keeping your hair soft and pliable, so the updo looks "chic and spontaneous – like a gorgeous accident, rather than like a bad prom moment. Begin by prepping dry hair with a healthy dose of mousse for hold that lasts. Next, blast your roots with a dryer while lifting the hair with your fingertips to build volume. Smooth the ends with a round brush. Then pull back your hair to the nape of your neck and twist it up, toward the crown, into "an old-school French twist". Anchor the updo with a long, strong bobby pin and let the ends stick out at the top. Last, take thin sections of this loose spray of hair and haphazardly wrap them around the uppermost part of the twist, securing them with bobby pins. Set with soft-hold hair spray.

Suit Your Makeup to Your Mood
Four ways makeup can easily and subtly transform your look

Change Up Your Makeup
Being properly made-up can give you just the boost of confidence you need to feel your best in every situation. To prove the point, here we have give four different looks to a same model according to different moods. Learn these easy tricks to look gorgeous in any mood.
The Sophisticate
When you want to look: Bold
How to Do It:
Start with a spotless, matte canvas (makeup-artist-speak for foundation, concealer, and powder). Play up your eyes (when they make an impact, you do, too) with a swipe of black liquid liner across the upper lids and a coat of black mascara. Not handy with liquid liner? Dip a piece of dental floss into the tube, hold it taut, then lay it right at the base of your lashes for a perfect line every time. Swipe on red lipstick (or pencil) and matching nail polish to complete the look. To find the right reds for you, try cooler (bluish) reds if your skin is very pale or dark; warmer (orangey) reds if it's olive or golden.
The Romantic
When you want to look: Flirty
How to Do It:
After prepping skin with foundation or tinted moisturizer and concealer, dust on a powder cheek colour (it lasts longer than a cream formula). Pick a shadow that subtly accentuates your eyes but is still noticeable, like gray, lavender, or even burgundy. Then curl your lashes and sweep on mascara. Add shine and hydration to your mouth with a cream lipstick that is close to the colour of your lips.

The Glamour Girl
When you want to look: Elegant
How to Do It:
When you're going all out, everything should be a bit more pronounced. So once you've evened out your skin, turn your attention to your eyes. Most women don't sport smoky eyes daily, so that instantly gets attention. Use a deep gray shadow from the bases of the upper lash lines to just above the creases, as well as below the lower lash lines (pretend you're drawing a halo of colour around each eye).
Add a black glitter liner to the inner rim of your lower lash lines. It catches the light and makes your eyes sparkle. Next, brush on copious amounts of mascara. To round out the look, apply a rosy colour to lips and cheeks. This is an essential step; otherwise, your heavily made-up eyes will overwhelm your face. Simpler yet, dab your lipstick on lips and cheeks.

Lakhani Winter Collection 2012-13

2012-01-06T09:22:00.001-08:00

Lakhani Winter Collection 2012-13

Nail care wariness should be on every woman’s tips

2012-01-06T09:19:00.001-08:00

Nail care wariness should be on every woman’s tips
Most of the house wives remain unable to bother nail care not only because of their fatiguing household, but the real factor behind is lack of knowledge towards nail strengthening tips. Nail care tips and nail care awareness should be on every woman’s tips so that she can protect her nails from going brittle, rough or chipping off.

Nail care wariness should be on every woman’s tips

Following are a few easy to manage nail strengthening tips for which you don’t have to squeeze extra time from your routine, neither do you have to spend any money on your nail care issue. All you need is a consistency to be developed for the implementation of these nail strengthening tips to enjoy healthy looking nails.
Take Protein Rich Diet:
Diet is the primary factor affecting nail health and hence is the first in our list of nail strengthening tips. For a proper nail care, you must know that “YOU ARE WHAT YOU EAT”. Taking less proteins and other insufficient nutrients means you don’t have any right to blame anyone but you for not taking proper nail care.
Take Proportionate and Quality Vitamins and Minerals:
For proper nail care, you must know the exact combination of various vitamins and minerals you specifically need for your nail care tips. For this, you can first see a doctor and let him recommend you a quality company and exact proportion of minerals and vitamins. Our nail care tips experts insist that you need a consistent attitude towards taking your vitamins on daily basis. We assure that by following these nail strengthening tips, you would feel a difference yourself!!
Keep Your Body Well Hydrated:
Drink as much water as you can. This is the most useful in the long list of nail care tips. Increasing your water intake and decreasing outside exposure with water, both are essential for your nail care. Most of the health experts profess while telling nail strengthening tips that Water is a friend to your nail care if taken orally and an enemy to your nail care if you frequently soak your nails in it.
Avoid Extra Exposure of Nails to Water:
As we have already stressed upon that extra contact with water makes your nail to grow weak and chip off easily. When talk of nail care, You must know that if you don’t keep your nails dry, and expose them directly to water, soaps and detergents while managing your household, your nails would be prone to catch fungal and other infections, not only this, rather they will grow weak, rough and will break easily. So the next in our nail strengthening tips is to wear gloves while dish washing and managing laundry.
Don’t Use Nails As Tools:
We use our nails as tools unintentionally for picking, opening, and other concerns. This should be consciously avoided when bothering nail care. Nail strengthening tips tell to Use tooth picks, or other tools instead of your nails.
Trim Your Nails Quite Often:
Nail care seeks for a proper nail trim at frequent intervals. It is important when comes to nail care tips that one should keep the nails well trimmed and filed so that they don’t break from the edges. Sharp edges can hurt you as well. Trimmed nails also impart a neat and tidy impact to your personality.
Massage Your Nails Every Night:
It neither needs expensive products nor extra time to massage your nails but it is essential for your nail care. You can use just a vitamin rich body lotion for massaging. You can easily practice this while watching your favorite drama on TV or reading your magazine. Even while navigating through Fashion Central. Nail strengthening tips only ask for consistency for the best results.

Latest Chen one at Winter Collection 2011

2012-01-04T06:53:00.000-08:00

Latest Chen one at Men Winter Collection 2011

Latest Cross Stitch at Winter collection 2011 12

2012-01-03T08:10:00.000-08:00

Latest Cross Stitch at Winter collection 2011 12Latest Cross Stitch at Winter collection 2011 12Latest Cross Stitch at Winter collection 2011 12Latest Cross Stitch at Winter collection 2011 12Latest Cross Stitch at Winter collection 2011 12Latest Cross Stitch at Winter collection 2011 12

Bonanza at Storm Winter Collection 2011-12

2012-01-03T07:17:00.000-08:00

Bonanza at Storm Winter Collection 2011-12

Deepak Perwani at Pakistani Fashion Designer Collection

2012-01-02T10:30:00.000-08:00

Deepak Perwani at Pakistani Fashion Designer Collection

The stunning beauty of Pakistani Fashion Industry, Tahira Iqbal

2012-01-02T06:55:00.001-08:00

The stunning beauty of Pakistani Fashion Industry, Tahira Iqbal

Tahira Iqbal Runner up 4, represents Pakistan in one of Europe’s largest international pageant – Queen of the World 2008 in Germany. In her own words, “I feel very privileged and lucky that I have been given this opportunity to take part in such a huge international pageant and represent the country of Pakistan.
Tahira Iqbal, the Queen of Pakistan yet very sweet and down to earth is characterized with the persona of a confident and bold woman of today. Fashion model, Tahira Iqbal caries within her the grace and elegance of a true independent woman. Her success lies in her belief in herself and on her strengths.

The stunning beauty of Pakistani Fashion Industry, Tahira Iqbal is proud to represent Pakistan in an in International pageant that held in Germany. Besides she won Miss Pakistan World 2008 title and Miss Congeniality Award at the Miss Pakistan World Pageant.
This 5 feet, 6 inches beauty is extremely happy and excited on her success and says that Pakistani girls need a lot of support in the pageant industry and parents must play an important role in encouraging them further also accepting the fact that she would not have been here on this position if her parents had not helped her.

Pakistani Fashion Designer by Emraan Rajput Collection

2012-01-02T06:45:00.000-08:00

Pakistani Fashion Designer by Emraan Rajput Collection

Latest Bridal Collection Showcased by Pakistani Fashion Designers at PFDC L’Oreal Paris Bridal Week 2011 was based on beauty of French culture.
Photographer: Faisal Farooqi at Dragonfly
Stylist: Depilex

Pakistani Industry Fashion model Haya

2012-01-02T06:38:00.000-08:00

Pakistani Fashion Industry is spectacularly producing new talent; particularly in the field of Fashion modeling. One of the fresh & up-coming talents is Fashion model Haya.

Pakistani Industry Fashion model Haya

Pakistani Fashion Industry is spectacularly producing new talent; particularly in the field of Fashion modeling. One of the fresh & up-coming talents is Fashion model, Haya.

Fashion model, Haya has got professional model look with the stunning eyes. She has got good figure and height that makes her a perfect choice for fashion designers and photographers. Traditional dresses like sari and lehanga look best on her because of her alluring eastern beauty.

Fashion model, Haya has touched the peak of success in a short period of time; she is undoubtedly a magnificent and talented addition to the roster of Pakistani fashion models.

New Jeans For Girls

2012-01-01T11:41:00.000-08:00

Jeans with smooth legs are generally satisfying for women for the reason that short legs form a vertical line that is shorter & lighter. To take full benefit of this style, too choose jeans with a dark wash, as an alternative of a light or faded blue jeans denim.Women's right leg as they look . They are form fitting pants extra than you wear. Though come in an elastic material, the facts of pure denim can be a little tricky to assemble, & if they tend to swell at night can be a little uncomfortable.

On the other hand, if you stand it, these jeans fit in a small stomach that make you look stylish. The best jeans for curvy women are created to accentuate your curves and create a fantastic and impressive feminine silhouette. They are called skinny jeans because they hug your physique - and extend the legs. And curvy women look great in a pair of tight jeans. They hug your thighs, calves and ankles for a "thin " look.

Hot Style Saree Blouse 2012

2011-12-31T11:35:00.000-08:00

Blouse is the most important essential part of the saree collection and it is always important to wear the perfect right fit blouse. New Stylish Fashion brought up various famous designer blouses which are stitched based on your measurements with various special types of saree designs and colors.

Saree Blouse

This type of sarees blouse not only saves time but also acts an ideal choice in a working environment and frees you from the hassles of draping the sarees blouse around the waist. Thanks for your visit, I hope you happy come to my blog and get what you're looking for. and sometime you will come back again

Islamic Clothing | Hijab

2011-12-30T10:38:00.000-08:00

Women have always felt powerless when they came across any new trend. They always dream up of elevating their elegance for which they have experimented with accessories or clothing’s like scarves and shawls. Silk Scarf holds significance as garment which has religious importance and also decorated as fashion trimmings. On the other hand shawls are the clothing which can be worn as shield against winter and can also be wrapped as style declaration.

Eid come closer to us, various design of dress to welcomed this occasion had been promoted in every place including this elegance stylish dress for 2012 Eid fashion. Abaya and tunic still dominated the dress style for this 2012 Eid fashion. Those were designed in loose style with elegance stylish style...

New Style Saree Blouse

2011-12-29T10:06:00.000-08:00

Fashion trends have brought about a sea change in the way Saree Blouses are designed and styled nowadays. While Saree Blouses were extremely simple and plain once upon a time and were bereft of any hint of style, nowadays Saree Blouses are as fashionable as one can imagine. This Navratri, opt for a tie back Saree Blouse instead of a plain one. Embroidered tie back Sarie Blouses look amazing when paired with gorgeous Navratri Sarees.

Saree Blouse

Choose an equally gorgeous tie back Sarie Blouse revealing embellished pattern along the deep cut at the back and sleeves along with the ties or dori featuring colorful beads latkans which gives it the right ethnic and festive touch.

Lastest Pakistani and Indain Brides 2011

2011-12-28T06:42:00.000-08:00

Sexy Look Indian and Pakistani Bridal Make Up

2011-12-27T06:30:00.000-08:00

Makeup is surprisingly often an overlooked item when planning your dream shaadi. Brides always focus on planning their outfits, jewellery, hair and mehndi but don't realise that, to look amazingly stunning on their wedding day they really need to have good makeup applied by a professional. Bridal make up by its very nature is a unique requirement and your make up regime for the big day needs careful thought and consideration. The first thing to get right is your skin and eyebrows.

I would recommend a series of facials in the run up to your wedding that is if you don't already have regular facials Start a few months before the wedding as it is common for your skin to break out and get worse before it gets better after a facial if you haven't had one for a long time Something to do with getting all the impurities out.

Anarkali Salwar Kameez

2011-12-26T07:47:00.000-08:00

This anarkali pattern embroidered salwar suit in dull color makes the personality of the wearer more presentable. The yoke and the bottom of the empire waist kurtahas heavy resham work embroidery. Sleeves and the back too has been embroidered and sequined. Embellished patches on hem of the kurta and sleeves as also on salwar makes it a great party wear salwar kameez. This exclusive anarkali style Georgette salwar kameez has three pieces- the churidar. The plain kurta with speckled sequins and a golden patch work border at the hem becomes beautiful all of a quick due to the effect of the seriously worked upon jacket. The transparent fabric of the collared jacket is praised with heavy embroidery on the long sleeves and the middle border which is just joined at a point with a string. If you like, you can wear it with jacket or a dupatta too- your choice.

Here are some modern designs of Anarkali Churidar Kurta. Look at them and get your dress made with necessary variations according to your body type. This is the perfect bridal salwar kameez - the greatest traditional yet fashionable Anarkali churidar kurta. The mixture of white and golden color gives elegance and prettiness to the dress. Still wonder what the latest fashion trend is in this festive period? Well, certainly it has to be the Anarkali salwar suits, back in fashion following a long time and how! Anarkali style is nowadays attractive very fashionable in India and amongst most of the women as well. But do we know the times past of how this stunning dress got its name as the “Anarkali salwar kameez”

Kashmiri embroidery for bridal wear

2011-12-25T19:49:00.000-08:00

If it is Bollywood's Rockstar that has brought Kashmiri hand embroidery back in fashion in India, it is Pakistan's young designer Ali Xeeshan who showcased at the ongoing Pakistan Fashion Design Council L'Oreal Paris Bridal Week how intricate thread work on bold colours and a dash of sequins can bring out the beauty of this craft.

Xeeshan, who designs under his Crimson label, has been working on Kashmiri embroideries for almost a year.

A glimpse of it was also seen at the pret show in Lahore early this year. But his vision of transforming the simple and intricate work into a couture delight for fashionistas, came true with his collection titled "Pahalgam", which was showcased here late Tuesday.

There was a bit of everything in his collection -- drama, beautiful styling, interesting hair-dos, sexy drapes and a bit of creative experimentation that would make up a chic and elegant wedding trousseau.

The designer ditched the long length kurtas and kept them medium.

Hand-embroidered shawls were draped as blouses over a fabric, which seemed like silver foil. Detailed long jackets and angrakha-style jackets were teamed with lehengas, ghagras and shararas with minimalist detailing, providing a good balance in the outfits.

And, not to forget the peppy Bollywood numbers -- Chappa chappa charkha chale and Dum maaro dum, that played in the background and kept the audience in high spirits.

The next show by designers Faraz and Sundas Manan of label Rouge, splashed the runway with myriad colours like midnight blue, coral-pink, turquoise-green, beige, gold, off-white, orange with balanced work of zardozi and jewel-based embellishments.

Off-shouder, knee-length kurtis with thread fringes at the hemline, saris, lehengas, anarkalis dominated the collection, while shimmer fabric was used to add zing to the heavily embroidered outfits and it worked in their favour.

The highlight of the next show by designer Sara Rohale Asghar was a live performance by Canadian-Pakistani band Josh. While they mesmerised the audience with their popular songs like "Kabhi" and "Mausam", models sashayed down the ramp on their tunes.

The collection was titled "Tehzeeb-e-Baymisaal". There was nothing new for the eyes, but the designer used shrugs and cleverly teamed them up with kurtas. That could be a trendsetter.

Asghar teamed velvet pants with free-flowing garments. There was no experimentation with cuts, but the designer managed to impress by using interesting colours like mehendi green, fuchsia, lemon, cinnamon, purple and offered colour combinations like grey-green, red-blue, green-red, which would look gorgeous on a young bride.

Fabrics like chiffons, silks and jamawars were used for the line and dabka work, stones and gems with intricate embroidery dominated the collection.

Latest Bridal Fashion Trends 2012

2011-12-24T06:55:00.000-08:00

Weddings have always been women's favorite excuse for reckless spending and this year's bridal fashion trends in dresses do not disappoint.One of the most dominant themes is winter in all its romantic connotations: 'snowflakes' made of diamonds and crystals embellished many of the dresses in bridal fashion trends and also in the celebrities fashion trends, models wore white eye makeup, and the term 'winter wonderland' was used by various designers to explain their inspirations for bridal fashion trends. A more apparent trend - it's wedding we're talking about, after all ...

Sari Trends at Lakme Fashion Week 2011

2011-12-23T09:33:00.000-08:00

Mixed Prints

At Sabyasachi’s show, mixed prints in bold colors are in season.

Metallic Embroidery

Manish Malhotra is inspired by metallic embroidery and long tunics with sari-like lenghas.

Minimalist

Gone are the days of saris covered in sequins and rhinestones. Debarrun shows the classic sari updated with bold contrast of complementing, yet simple, prints.

Large Print & Small Blouses

As hemlines go up and down in the west, the east has an equal dilemma with blouse coverage. Everything from long sleeves to bikini tops (pictured below) are in style. During Anupamaa Dayal’s show, a good mix of small blouse and large traditional print balance the look.

BRIDAL JEWELLERY For a Traditional BRIDE

2011-12-22T07:37:00.000-08:00

Selecting bridal trousseaus is not difficult anymore. The wide variety of impressive prêt collection has turned this frantic task in to a hassle-free fun activity. Step into any renowned designer's outlet and fill your shopping bags with some stunning outfits for your engagement ceremony, nikah and valima reception. Look ravishing on the day of your nikah, in this peach outfit with heavy gold embellishments. This mesmerising red outfit is perfect to wear on a wedding function. The beautiful dabka work in gold and green hues on a red base looks completely eastern, while the striking rust and gold jewellery complements the bridal look. Go for soft and muted shades for your valima reception. Be a little creative and opt for this gorgeous gharara that has an odd contrast of turquoise and pink. Attend a post-marriage party in this apple green ensemble and complete your newlywed look with alluring pearl necklace studded with scarlet semi-precious stones. It's a time to make your bridal trousseau fascinating with these interesting pieces!

• Jewellery: Rewaj Silver
• Designer: Uzma Siddiqui
• Label: Perahan
• Hair & Makeup: Saira Khan @ Baajes
• Coordination: Syed Zakir Hussain
• Styling & Photography: Yasser Sadiq
• Model: Jia Khan

Mehreen Syed as L’Oréal Paris

2011-12-21T19:42:00.000-08:00

Introducing Mehreen Syed as L’Oréal Paris Pakistan spokesperson

Mehreen Syed is one of Pakistan’s top supermodels who has set national, regional and international fashion runways ablaze with her show stopping poise and confidence. She continues to grace the pages of local and international magazines and is among Pakistani’s most sought after supermodels. An entrepreneur, Mehreen has most recently launched the International Fashion Academy Pakistan [IFAP] where she combines her expertise in fashion with her business acumen to lead the institute with a passion to succeed and indeed contribute positively to institutionalising and organizing the fashion industry in Pakistan today. Indeed through IFAP Mehreen has sought to establish a platform that allows the next generation of fashion industry professionals, specifically stylists, models, makeup artists and photographers, to study their field in a professional environment, equipping aspiring specialists with the technical know-how and exposure enabling such students to be able to pursue such studies as a viable career.

As model, Mehreen has also achieved numerous accolades which to her credit include the “International Model of the Year” award in 2005, “Face of the Year” award in 2007, “Glamorous Entrepreneur” award in 2010 and was ranked 16th in the Hottest 50 Asian Women in the World 2009 survey.

Claiming a right for a multi-faceted beauty over a standardised or perfect beauty, L’Oréal Paris, the world’s leading beauty brand, and its international ambassadors have always been influential personalities from the world of arts, fashion and beauty; Penelope Cruz, Aishwarya Rai, Eva Longoria, Beyonce Knowles, Jane Fonda and Patrick Dempsey are a few amongst the many who have come to represent a cross section of age, morphology and ethnic origin - all illustrative of the brands’ beauty philosophy.

L’Oréal Paris Pakistan’s spokespeople share the same brand philosophy and this December 2011, the brand proudly introduce glamorous model and media personality Mehreen Syed as a Spokesperson in Pakistan. pr

Acnes | Health & Beauty Tips Video By Dr Fazeela Abbasid

2011-12-21T07:05:00.000-08:00

Health & Beauty Tips Video By Dr Fazeela Abbasi

Dr. Fazeela Abbasi, MBBS, MD, M.sc Dermatology (London)Founder & Director of Advance Dermatology Clinic

Dr Fazeela Abbasi has been appointed by the President as an Advisor/ Consultant in the Federal Ministry of Health. She has recently given her joining in the ministry and playing her
role in the finalization of the national health policy and is determined to bring revolutionary
changes in the Health system in future.
Dr Fazeela Abbasi has also been made a brand ambassador doctor in Southeast Asia by international Swiss aesthetic filler Company ANTEIS.

Veena Malik First Look in Swayamvar 4

2011-12-20T09:16:00.000-08:00

Veena Malik is never upset to give arguments. Even as she is ready to search for her groom in Swayamvar season 4, her pictures on the cover of a magazine is also on the peeks.Imagine TV has publicize Swayamvar Season 4 and this instance it is none other than Pakistani beautifulactress Veena Malik who is all set to find the partner of her life in India.

Veena Malik will look for for a groom in the fourth edition of the famous show Swayamvar on a top channel.

I am extremely excited about Swayamvar and I believe that this is the best platform for me to find my life partner, speaks Veena Malik.

Speaking to media in launch of the show; she assumed that she was sure that she would have the support of her fans in India and also Indian fans has supported her much in bigboss 5 show.Lets hope best for Veena Malik.

Bride In Pastels

2011-12-20T07:26:00.000-08:00

Gone are the days when bright and loud makeup was en vogue. The new season demands soft and subtle looks. Look fabulous on your big day with mesmerising pastel hues. The soothing eye shadows in blue, candy pink and green shades give the eyes a gorgeous appeal. Go for a soft look that can help brighten up your complexion as well as give your skin a glow. Muted shades such as olive, mauve and soft browns can also be skilfully used depending upon the colour of the bridal outfit. Make your lips prominent with alluring candy pink and frosty azure glosses. Adorn the dazzling kundan jewellery to complement your magnificent bridal attire.

I Designer: Parisheh's Collection by Farah Jahanzaib

I Makeup: Saqib & Sabiha's

I Jewellery: Anum Yazdani

I Coordination: Farhan J Ansari

I Photography: Kashif Ali

I Model: Zara Gul

Controversy Queen VEENA MALIK

2011-12-19T07:13:00.000-08:00

Veena Malik has been in news ever since she established a strong foothold in India for all the reasons objectionable. Latest being the controversy of her posing naked for an Indian magazine.
However, she denied going nude and sued the magazine for a whopping 10 crore Rupees. But the newest stir is her father making a statement to British media on disowning her and how he wants her to be punished for what she has done!
"I have disowned her. I have severed all ties with her and I don't want her to have any share in whatever meager assets I have until she is cleared of the controversy and pledges not to visit India again," Veena's father, Malik Mohammad Aslam, was quoted by a British paper.
He added that his daughter should be punished if found guilty of stripping 'so that no other woman would think of doing such a thing'. "I can ignore it if she disobeys me but I cannot tolerate anything against my country and my faith."
This statement made by her father has shocked the actress and she despite repetitive tries from media to get in touch, has maintained a 'no comment' status.
However, in an earlier interview, Veena had said her family was always supportive of what she did, and it was only after their permission that she said yes to 'Swayamvar', which also created a controversy recently due to her nationality. "My parents have always supported me."
'I Posed Topless, Not Nude'
Veena, who featured in a racy cover shoot in the December edition of FHM magazine in India told CNN that she posed topless, but not completely naked.
Veena Malik appeared on the cover of the magazine wearing only one thing: a tattoo on her arm bearing the initials ISI causing a stir in whole of Pakistan. But Veena said FHM doctored the photographs to show her without clothes and has now revealed plans to sue the publication.
"I admit that I have done a bold shoot," she said adding, "but I was not nude. There is a big difference between topless and being nude."
"You will see various shoots here in the Bollywood industry where the actresses actually went topless but they were covered like the way I was."
In an interview to CNN, she said she had declined an offer a couple of months ago by an international media agency to pose nude for a fee but agreed to do a shoot for FHM India instead – and without charges – because it was a personality shoot.
"What I have lost is priceless," she said.
But FHM India says Veena knew the terms all along and approved the photos. The publication is even demanding a public apology and has threatened to counter-sue Veena for defamation.
"She was completely aware of the cover," said FHM editor Kabeer Sharma. "She was completely aware of the concept. She loved the concept and she said it at least fifteen times."
Veena's lawyer Ayaz Bilawala told CNN that Veena Malik is seeking $1.9 million in damages, saying the magazine 'cheated' his client and doctored the pictures.
In a legal notice served to the magazine, Veena contends that it was Sharma's idea for her to wear the ISI tattoo; she was told it would be good for her image.
In another photo, which was originally slated for the cover, she is shown holding a grenade in her right hand. And when she was asked by Get TV about the shot, she said, "Yes I did it holding a grenade in my mouth. So what? Do you have some problem with it?"
FHM published the grenade photo inside, with a line plastered across it: "The cover we didn't use."
Veena said the shoot was supposed to create positive feelings, not negative ones. She added that the controversy has affected her family, particularly her father.
"He did not speak to me. He spoke to one of the media groups and he was crying, I mean he was too upset... I don't blame him for that."
But the actress and model is no stranger to controversy. She triggered uproar two years ago when she claimed that her former boyfriend, Mohammed Asif, was involved in spot-fixing international matches.
A year later, the actress came under fire from Pakistani clerics who decried her behavior in the Indian reality TV show Big Boss, as 'un-Islamic'.
"I am not a perfect Muslim or a perfect person, but I haven't committed a crime, and unfortunately things like this are part and parcel of the industry I work in," she said.
Despite all this, she downplayed her criticism back home.
"I am not bothered about what they think," she said. "My fans and many Pakistanis support me and believe in me."
"If you look at the industry which I am working right now, there are various examples of such shoots – it's not that I am the first one who has done it," she said.
"Why is sexuality such a big problem? Are we actually grown up? Are we still living in the jungles?"
It has also been reported that Malik is claiming the support of her fans – and wouldn't rule out a nude shoot in the future.
She is reported to have said; "I'm a very strong person. If I did something like that, I would stand by my actions."
"Would I pose nude In the future? Who knows what will happen tomorrow."
'FHM Row Added 10 Years To My Age'
Veena Malik has claimed that the stress caused by the FHM India scandal aged her by almost ten years.
However, she recently revealed that since she filed her lawsuit, she has been threatened with character defamation if she did not drop the charges.
"I feel completely cheated. They've added ten years to my age. They threatened to sue me if I don't keep quiet," the Daily Mail quoted her as saying.
The 33-year-old has claimed that she was wearing hot pants, which were removed by Photoshop on the cover of FHM India.
"The image we shot was completely different to the one on the cover. I was wearing hot pants and they promised me they would cover my upper body with multiple tattoos. Instead, they removed the hot pants," she said.
The actress has alleged that the editor-in-chief Kabeer Sharma and the journalist who interviewed her were not responding to her calls even though prior to the shoot they would converse with her regularly.
"I did not sign any contract and refused to until I was given final approval of the images. I was never sent the pictures but I was assured they were the same shots taken from the shoot in November."
"I was cool with those pictures because I felt they were artistic and beautiful. They should have waited for my authorisation but they didn't."
"There was only one week between the shoot and publication – they were obviously in a rush to print them without my consent," she said.
Meanwhile, Sharma has strongly denied the allegations that the pictures are doctored and that the model has been threatened, insisting that Malik has given contradictory accounts of the shoot.
"It's important to note Ms Malik has been dragging the magazine's name through muck by making false and baseless allegations and we look at it very, very seriously," he said.
"I invite Ms Malik to furnish one shred of evidence, SMS or a witness to support her allegations which are as concocted as the ones she's been making all week."
"No one in FHM has had any conversation with Ms Malik directly or indirectly to make this "imagined threat".
"The one message that was sent to her was one that told her she could call the office landline if she wanted to have a conversation."
Sharma claims the magazine has video evidence of the shoot.
"Ms Malik was more than comfortable with the filming, it was only when the cover and the grenade shots were done was the videographer asked to stop filming to make the team more comfortable (not her).
She did not even once ask him to stop filming."
Malik on the other hand has said that no such video was taken and that when she noticed filming taking place, when she was fully clothed, she asked them to stop as it was not in line with the previous agreement to only shoot images.

'I Have Not Done Anything Against Law'
"I have not done anything wrong which brings bad name to the country," said the controversial queen Veena Malik in an inclusive interview to Geo TV. "I am an actress and a fashion model and I know my limits. I don't know why people bring religion and morality when it comes to a woman," she added admitting the fact that she did a bold shoot.
"I do not know why there is such uproar over my shoot. Why people forget that I am the one who has been betrayed. My pictures have been doctored and I should be supported by my countrymen but alas that is not the situation," she added.
"If someone thinks that I should be served legally then the magazine editor should also be served as he is responsible for doctoring my images," she said.
While defending herself Veena said, "No one objects when our cricket players participate in IPL but people do not forget to make hue and cry over my every move. I have not done anything which is against the law."
She clearly mentioned that she did not represent anyone but herself. "I must tell you that I do not represent anyone but myself. Do not treat me as a person representing a certain society but an individual, as a model and an actress."
She stressed that a woman should be allowed to live a life of her own choice. It should be a girl's choice whether she would wear burqa or jeans.
When she was asked about her limits, she said, "Whatever I have done is according to the norms of the Bollywood industry. When I will go to Hollywood, I would do the same according to their norms. Look, I am an actress and I will do whatever my profession demands and nothing else. I believe in the famous saying, 'Jaisa des waisa bhes'."
It is interesting to note that a Mumbai based fashion designer spilled the beans on Veena's controversy and disclosed to a news channel that the whole controversy was pre-planned and agreed upon by all concerned.

What The Celebrities Had To Say…
Resham – Lollywood Actress
I don't want to say anything on Veena's scandal. I think our government should cancel her nationality and strictly restrict her entrance in the country.

Mishi Khan – TV Actress
I don't consider this topic important enough to say anything on it. I won't waste my words by speaking about her shameful act.

Bushra Ansari – TV Actress & Host
I don't want to talk about her nonsense act. Media should give much importance to other key issues rather giving hype to her scandal. Recently maulvi raped a 6-year-old girl and media didn't give coverage to it as they were busy covering Veena's nude photo shoot. It's a time for media to play a responsible and constructive role for the betterment of society.

Shamyl Khan – Lollywood Actor
She is not even a Pakistani for me. Our ministry of culture should take strict action against her and they must ban her entrance in the country. By showing ISI tattoo on her hand she actually did something against our country.

Adnan Siddiqui – TV Actor
Her act is totally disgraceful for our country. I strongly oppose anyone who does such cheap things to tarnish the image of Islamic Republic of Pakistan.

Chikni Chameli Katrina

2011-12-17T03:20:00.000-08:00

Katrina Kaif has joined the illustrious list of actors associated with Karan Johar's Agneepath -- apart from Hrithik Roshan and Priyanka Chopra in the lead roles, we'll see a bald Sanjay Dutt and Rishi Kapoor playing villians Kancha Cheena and Rauf Lala respectively.
Katrina's Chikni Chameli turn for an item number (she's reportedly done a lavni) in the film has generated a lot of interest. Comparisons are already being made with her previous item number Sheila Ki Jawaani.
Johar gave us the first glimpse of Katrina's look on his Twitter handle. Do you think she looks hot?

Glass Tissue Sarees

2011-12-17T02:00:00.000-08:00

Fashion Frenzy | Long Shirt with White Trouser

2011-12-14T02:44:00.000-08:00

Fashion Frenzy
Impressive Intricacies
First up is the self-printed peach pink long shirt – a perfect choice for office wear. Simple yet stylist outfit has mesmerising thread work in small floral pattern highlighting the front panel. The flowing chiffon fabric gives a svelte façade. This modish long shirt goes well with fitted white trouser or a churidaar.

Fine Choice!
If you are looking for soft hue and delicate embroidery then this attractive piece should be an ideal pick for you. The plain chiffon shirt with printed lining is stitched beautifully with fine embroidery. It's an ideal choice to look stylish in a classy way.

Exquisite Style
Get ready to attend a friend's party in this gorgeous royal blue dress. The long shirt has surreal silver leafy detailing with impressive stonework.

Surreal Charm
A little bit knowledge about latest fashion trends, creativity and right attitude is required to stand out in crowd. A true fashion lover knows how to carry the look. It's a time to discover your true style in this trendy ensemble.

Bridal Look 2012

2011-12-13T01:51:00.000-08:00

Bridal LOOK

Every bride wants to look stylishly different on her big day. From make-up, hairstyle, accessories to outfit everything should have to be perfect. A slight mistake can ruin the look in seconds. Red exhibits good luck so a traditional lehnga in striking scarlet shade is considered ideal to wear on rukshtai function. Accentuate your sensational bridal look with the gorgeous ethnic jewellery exhibiting classic aura of rich tradition of subcontinent. Alluring kundan sets and gold ornaments with beautifully studded precious stones complement the bridal outfit really well. Complete your picture perfect bridal look with subtle make-up. Go for a perfectionist, a make-up artiste who can accentuate your look as a folushing bride.

• Hair and Make-up: Shama Abdullah @ Queens
• Label: Karma by Maheen Kardar
• Coordination: Umer Mushtaq
• Photography: Shahbaz Shazi
• Model: Uzma Khan

THREADS AND MOTIFS 2011

2011-12-11T11:00:00.001-08:00

Most Unforgettable Dresses of 2011

2011-12-08T05:17:00.001-08:00

First Lady Michelle Obama in Alexander McQueen

First Lady Michelle Obama’s fiery red Alexander McQueen gown for thestate dinner for China provoked many dialogues mainly because she chose to wear a non-American designer to an important event. This had the likes of designers like Oscar de la Renta giving her a thumbs down. She later defended hersartorial choice by saying, "Look, women, wear what you love. That's all Ican say. That's my motto. I wear what I like because...I gotta be in the dress,so..." in an interview with Good Morning America.

Emma Stone in Calvin Klein

Emma Stone's peach minimalist Calvin Klein t-shirt dress at the Golden Globe Awards made fashion observers sit up and pay attention to the then little-knownactress. It ushered the making of a new style star.

Lady Gaga in Hussein Chalayan

Okay, it’s not actually a dress but it walked the red carpet. Lady Gaga’segg/cocoon/womb case and her latex outfit plus the protruding bones on her temples and shoulders had tongues wagging and leftJoan Rivers and late night talk show hosts with a wealth of punch lines.

Cate Blanchett in Givenchy at the Oscars

Cate Blanchett’s Givenchy haute couture lilac dress with sculpturalframe on the bodice fabulously walked the line between being best andworst-dressed. In my book she can do no wrong.

Cate Blanchett in Givenchy

Back view of Cate Blanchett's Givenchy haute couture gown

Natalie Portman in Rodarte

In the days leading up to the Oscars in what was sure to be a win for NataliePortman, the fashion tongues were wagging as to whether the very pregnant BlackSwan star and Dior endorser would wear Dior following John Galliano’s reportedanti-Semitic rage. After much speculation in the fashion media, Portman walked the red carpet and accepted her Oscar for best actress in a plum colored gown designed by her friends from Rodarte.

Kate Middleton in Alexander McQueen

Kate Middleton’s weddingdress was quite simply perfection. Sarah Burton of Alexander McQueen willforever be associated with the Duchess’ wedding gown and everytime someone looks back on this royal wedding years from now, Burton's name will always surface.

Pippa Middleton in Alexander McQueen

The derriere that stole a bit of the attention away from the royal bride. Pippa Middleton’s Alexander McQueen body-skimming dress comes a closesecond to her sister’s. It was the dress that revived the Destiny’s Child slang‘bootylicious’. It also launched Pippa into the international spotlight.

Philippa Middleton in Alexander McQueen

Pippa broke the sorority rule of not wearing white to someone's wedding.

Daphne Guinness in Alexander McQueen

Daphne Guinness shed all inhibitions by doing a performance piece that showed her getting prepped and dressed for the Costume Institute Gala, honoring Alexander McQueen, in front of crowds at the Barneys New York windows. The dress, made entirely from lilac colored feathers, was from the first solo collection of Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen. It was a work of art on its own.

Jennifer Lopez

Jennifer Lopez's nude body suit with sparkles covering her privates raised a lot of questions: Was it age-appropriate? Isn't she past the body-baring age? Was she borrowing from Britney Spear's sartorial playbook? Was she showing her ex-husband Marc Anthony what he's missing? Like her outfit or not, it got her plenty of media coverage, including this list.

Sparkling Gems

2011-12-06T12:39:00.000-08:00

Since ages women have adorned sparkling gems to accentuate their beauty. Convey your message of love in a special way and gift a dazzling garland to your spouse to win her heart forever. This gorgeous silver necklace with pink stones is perfect to wear with a traditional sari. A striking contrast of gold and silver can be found in this jadau ornament with black tear-drop stone. The beautiful gold and silver complex intricacies look eye-catching. If you have a simple taste for jewellery, you should go for this silver triangular necklace with fascinating silver flower patterns in the middle. Diamond studded hoops with sapphire stones enhance the grandeur of this necklace. This azure and silver set defines delicacy. Its richly crafted gold and silver bangles with complex designing are perfect as wedding anniversary gifts.

• Text: Bano
• Jewellery: Omega Jewellers
• Hair & Makeup: Asma Zuberi @ Depilex
• Concept & Coordination: Owais Mirza & Rameeza Mirza
• Photography: Mirza Jibran Jawed
• Model: Sana Khan

Latest Trendy Shalwar Kameez

2011-12-05T12:35:00.000-08:00

Redefine Your Style | Latest Shalwar Kameez

2011-12-04T23:21:00.001-08:00

Astound everyone with your svelte style statement because it's time to show the world how voguish you are. Be it a family get-together, official dinner or a Sunday brunch, exhibit your cheerful personality with the right choice of attires. Attend a friend's mehndi in this gorgeous baby pink gown with gota work all over the front. Silver leafy patterns are beautifully used to define the cuts and make the dress eye-catching.
The classic contrast of gold and black always appeals to everyone. Use shimmering animal printed fabric panels and balance it well with the black panel at the centre. You can highlight the plain black centre part with stunning gold embroidery to glam up the look. Dark maroon goes well with black, craft a trendy outfit with this charming contrast. Drape a voluminous black gown with enchanting silver intricacies on the neckline and this classy attire will become an epitome of grace and elegance. Go to a happening party and make others look at you in awe with this green gown. The clean silhouette and rich embroidery on the neckline shows the perfection of craftsmanship. For a formal office dinner the sober beige and white contrast could do wonders. You can also use net to further stylise your outfit. Leave your mark on others with this illustrious line of formal dresses.

• Text: Nazeefa
• Hair and Make-up: Saba Ansari at Sab's
• Designer: Lubna Couture
• Coordination: Umer Mushtaq
• Photography: Mustafa Abidi
• Model: Maha

Sizzle IN STYLE

2011-12-04T11:48:00.001-08:00

Sizzle IN STYLE
Revamp your closet with the latest western trends and be the first one to adopt it. Tights are IN these days and with a colour like black, you can pair it with just about any top. So go ahead, don these western outfits and be the first one to sizzle in style!

Hot Favourite
Walk in a party wearing this simple yet chic attire and you are sure to turn many heads. This sultry red shirt goes well with black tights as well as trousers and the bright hue will reflect your exuberant personality elegantly. Accessorise your look with twinkling silver hoops and a gorgeous stone necklace.

Grab It
Go for light hues and clean silhouettes to make a subtle style statement. Single-colour ensembles in soft brown, whites and summery yellows attract everyone attention. Make an elegant appearance with this camel shirt and accessorise yourself with some spunky jewellery!

Black Magic
Black reflects elegance and class – it is a perennial colour that can mesmerise anyone anywhere. Show off your graceful persona in this black sleeveless gown. It is a wonderful choice for formal parties and dinners. An urban woman's wardrobe is incomplete without this gorgeous and classy black attire!

I Text Ayesha
I Hair & Make-up: Basit Ali
I Designer: Maria B
I Styling: Fahad Yaqoob
I Coordination: Umer Mushtaq
I Photography: Zeeshan Ghauri
I Model: Mathira

Mona Liza MAGICAL MAKE-OVER

2011-11-26T08:55:00.000-08:00

In today's fast-paced life, the quest for perfection has driven young girls to the alluring world of cosmetics. Everyone craves for flawless skin and impeccable appearance and they are ready to go to any length to enhance their natural beauty with magical make-overs.
Make-up can work wonders to uplift your facial features and give you that chic look that you always desired. Eyes are said to be the windows to the soul. Choosing the perfect eye-shadow is essential for accentuating your overall look. Apply a flicker of smoky eye-shadow on your eyes if you wish to make them more prominent. If you're not too fond of kohl, then a mesmerizing blend of turquoise and silver shimmer will elevate the oomph factor to your overall look. It's hard to resist the temptation of applying bright lipshades, but make-up experts recommend that a soft and subdued look exudes a lot more charisma than a heavily made-up pastry-type look would. The hottest lip shades for the summers would be the transparent nude shades for day wear in light brown, pink and lilac and shimmery lip tints for the evening. Pretty pinks in shades of rose and fuchsia suit most complexions as they highlight the glamour quotient of the face. Reds are making a daring comeback by igniting a fiery look for those who yearn to look drop-dead gorgeous. Conventionally, shades of red can make you look like a glam doll if worn with an elegant black dress at a night party. Matte lipshades like peach and apricot work well with women of Caucasian complexion and shades of nude brown, berry, copper and orchid are simply gorgeous for brown complexions.

• Text: Sahar Haris
• Hair & Make-up: Laiqa Hasan
• Label: Karma
• Jewellery: Naureen Shahid
• Styling: Amir Ali
• Coordination: Umer Mushtaq
• Photography: Deevees
• Model: Mona Liza

Xenab’s Atelier’s latest collection

2011-11-25T08:51:00.000-08:00

Xenab’s Atelier Formal Collection Spring 2011

Xenab’s Atelier’s latest collection came out this spring with mostly formals with both eastern and west-inspired styles. These east-west fusion styles are modern but still carry our traditional hint that exudes femininity. The following dresses are formal enough for parties and weddings this season.

: Xenab’s Atelier Spring 2011 Formal Black Front Slit Long Shirt

: Xenab’s Atelier Spring 2011 Formal Black Front-Slit Long Shirt

: Xenab’s Atelier Spring 2011 Formal Black Long Shirt Shalwar Kameez

: Xenab’s Atelier Spring 2011 Formal Black Shalwar Kameez

: Xenab’s Atelier Spring 2011 Formal Black Shalwar Kameez

: Xenab’s Atelier Spring 2011 Formal Blue Long Shirt with Churidar

: Xenab’s Atelier Spring 2011 Formal Front Open Blue Shawlar Kameez

: Xenab’s Atelier Spring 2011 Formal Front Open Long Shirt Dress

: Xenab’s Atelier Spring 2011 Formal Front Open Orange Pink Shirt

: Xenab’s Atelier Spring 2011 Formal Front Slit Shirt

: Xenab’s Atelier Spring 2011 Formal Front-open Long Shirt

: Xenab’s Atelier Spring 2011 Formal Front-open Long Shirt

: Xenab’s Atelier Spring 2011 Formal Maroon Shalwar Kameez

: Xenab’s Atelier Spring 2011 Formal Off-white Red Lehenga

: Xenab’s Atelier Spring 2011 Formal Orange Front Open Long Shirt

: Xenab’s Atelier Spring 2011 Formal Pink A-Line Panels Long Shirt

: Xenab’s Atelier Spring 2011 Formal Pink Blue Long Shirt Dress

: Xenab’s Atelier Spring 2011 Formal Pink Blue Shalwar Kameez

: Xenab’s Atelier Spring 2011 Formal Pink Panels Long A-Line Shirt

: Xenab’s Atelier Spring 2011 Formal Pink Yellow Mehndi Lehnga Dress

: Xenab’s Atelier Spring 2011 Formal Red Black Gharara with Long Shirt

: Xenab’s Atelier Spring 2011 Formal Red Front Slit Long Shirt Dress

: Xenab’s Atelier Spring 2011 Formal Red Off white Gharara

: Xenab’s Atelier Spring 2011 Formal Shalwar Kameez

: Xenab’s Atelier Spring 2011 Formal White Long A-Line Shirt

: Xenab’s Atelier Spring 2011 Formal White Red Dress

Men Winter Collections | Dress For Success

2011-11-24T08:47:00.000-08:00

Denim Directory
Gone are the days when a single pair of stonewashed jeans went with everything. Deep wardrobes need diverse denim and that mean cut as well as colour. From slim jeans to faded favourites, here is our guide for what to buy and how to wear it.

1. Indigo
Purists will tell you that the finest jeans are raw, crisp and completely unwashed. They're right but they're uncompromising. Softened indigo jeans achieve the same aesthetic without the stiffness, and both look brilliant with warm colours.
Style Tip: Double the turn-up on raw jeans for a crisp contrast between the dark indigo and the un-dyed denim below.

2. Grey
Black shoes and blue jeans can be a bit of a bruising combination, but vintage-wash grey denim perfectly offsets a pair of boots and a leather jacket for the ideal gig-going outfit.
Style Tip: Some denim looks a bit foolish when you belt it – but good grey jeans are beautiful when buckled.

3. Slim
With skinny jeans back in fashion, courtesy Hollywood stars, it is the ideal cut for men who don't want their blood supply cut off to their feet.
Style Tip: The blazer and jeans combo has become the menswear cliché of the millennium.
Breathe fresh life into it with darker denim for a seamless, almost suit-like look.

4. Faded
With much distressed denim acceptable only for extrovert teenagers, opting for dirty washed jeans is the best way to get that scruffed-up, lived-in feel without the obvious scars of artificial ageing.
Style Tip: Faded jeans suit a loose, woodsman kind of cut and look great with interesting textures. Pair it with anything from graphical t-shirts from Zainab Market and Dolmen to chic custom made shirts from Zamzama.

Stylish Churidaar Shalwar kameez

2011-11-23T08:44:00.001-08:00

Be A trendsetter
Everyone wants to look stylish these days but, in a subtle way! Become a trendsetter and flaunt your understated style statement in these gorgeous picks!

The New Favourite
Pistachio green hue is undoubtedly the most favourite colour of this season. This soft and quaint shade appeals to everyone. Flaunt your true style in this fashionable dropped – ends shirt with paisley motifs on the front. It looks stunning with a white silk churidaar and is perfect for family get-togethers and wedding functions.

A Scintillating Pick
Show off your glamorous personality in this dazzling carol attire. Throw a happening party and don this candy orange outfit. The paisley pattern looks charming while the refined embroidery at the center of front adds an oomph factor to the dress. The fawn border in light and dark shades enhances the appeal of this elegant outfit.

Black & Blue
Jazz up your fashion closet with this elegant blue and black ensemble. Wear this stylish outfit on a friend's birthday or for an official dinner. It is a must have for today's confident girl who never misses chance to display her lively persona with her classy wardrobe collection.

For A Chic Appearance
Black is a perennial favourite hue and the interesting contrast with red increases its appeal. The stylish designing in V-shaped pattern looks very interesting. The graceful scheming with the wide floral lace and numerous pleats gives the outfit a chic appearance whereas the artfully designed hemline presents a novel feel. This attractive sleeveless summer dress is perfect to express an exuberant personality.
Team it with a straight black trouser and make others look at you in awe.

Azure Magic
The beautiful combination of azure and black is breathtaking. The traditional angarkha style hast been used in a voguish manner. Alluring intricacies at the corner of the shirt with emerald green stones and white diamonds enhance the beauty of this ensemble. Pearls on the neckline definitely ups the glamour quotient.

I TEXT: WAJIHA JAWAID
I HAIR & MAKE-UP: QASIM@ANNIE'S SALON
I DESIGNER: ZAINAB MUSHTAQ
I COORDINATION: REZZ ALY SHAH
I PHOTOGRAPHY & STYLING: MICKEY & MOMEY
I MODEL: SOFIA MIRZA

Latest Mehndi Designs

2011-11-22T02:25:00.001-08:00

COOL MEHNDI DRESSES

2011-11-21T03:20:00.001-08:00

COOL MEHNDI DRESSES

Mehndi is a very cool event of wedding ceremony. Apart from other things like selection of mehndi dresses is very critical step. We have collected some cool Indian and Pakistani mehndi dresses to support your vision. Mehndi dresses in Pakistan or India has very much similarity due to a lot of common culture and traditions. We hope you will like this cool collection of mehndi dresses.
Cool Mehndi Dres

Decent Mehndi Dresses

Sweet Mehndi Dress

Lovely Mehndi Dress

Punjabi Mehndi Dresses

Simple Mehndi Dress

Delicate Mehndi Dress

Nice Mehndi Dress

Traditional Mehndi Dress

Cute Mehndi Dress

Elegant Mehndi Dress

Ayshyarya rai baby girl

2011-11-21T02:54:00.001-08:00

COUGAR "Casual Wear Brand"

2011-11-20T07:37:00.000-08:00

COUGAR – Pakistan's casual wear brand is known for its trendy casual wear for a distinctly urban, outgoing, active and fun loving youth with an informal lifestyle. COUGAR is targeted at the Metropolitan young boys & girls who are in search of a fashionable brand that offers a good fashion-comfort equation while defining a vibrant style.

Aishwarya Rai Bachchan baby girl born

2011-11-20T03:14:00.001-08:00

Bollywood actress Aishwarya Rai Bachchan had a baby girl born at Seven Hills Hospital."It’s a girl for Aishwarya Rai!" Abhishek has screamed to the world from his twitter account. Finally the much awaited Bachchan baby is out for the world to see.

At 4 a.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 16, 2011, Aishwarya Rai developed labor pains and six hours later delivered a healthy baby girl at the Seven Hills Hospital in Mumbai.

Aishwarya's father-in-law, Amitabh Bachchan, was not far behind in expressing his joy at becoming a grand father to the world, and tweeted: "I AM DADA to the cutest baby girl, A dada ji ... Ecstatic."

According to the Seven Hills Hospital sources, the delivery was normal and came a few minutes before 10 a.m. Both the Bachchan and Rai families were present at the hospital to welcome the (already) Star Baby.

Three rooms on the fifth floor of the hospital were booked for this occasion -- one for Aishwarya, the mother to be, one for the Bachchan family and the third for the Rai family. This entire floor was kept off limits for all general public and hospital staff.

Fashion heritage: A turbulent era for turbans

2011-11-17T19:57:00.000-08:00

The traditional headdress, which is a representative of Pakistani culture, is seldom seen these days. GRAPHIC : AMNA IQBAL

ISLAMABAD:

Not just a literary rock star and renowned ladies’ man, Lord Byron was also known for making bold, striking fashion statements — perhaps in an attempt to prove that his genius could find more outlets for expression.

Thomas Phillips’ influential portrait, “George Gordon, Lord Byron” (1914), depicts the poet in a red velvet jacket and a remarkable turban, layered in orange, gold and brown. The turban adds a debonair charm to Byron’s ‘mystique,’ immortalising him in a timeless ensemble — the best of East and West.

Lord Byron’s portrait fits into a larger 18^th century trend marked by a fascination and longing for the ‘Orient’, with western luxury and art markets turning to Arabia and India for inspiration. Nearly a century later, it’s ironic that Pakistani men — as modern day Orientals — still remain confused when it comes to fully channelling their fashion heritage. One wonders where have all the turbans gone?

This is not to say that it isn’t ‘done’, that exciting headgear options aren’t available. Only recently designers and labels the likes of Fahad Hussayn and Lajwanti turned out their turbaned trends for Bridal Couture Week (2011) ramps. Hussayn’s aesthetic stuck to a darker palette dominated by black and grey sherwanis, complimented by similarly neutral but otherwise elaborate headgear. Lajwanti’s Bridal collection featured a red turban (with subtle gold embroidery) that would’ve been at home on Lord Byron’s head.

Designer Kamiar Rokni states, “In an ideal world, I’d love to walk around in a turban. I’m always the one who ties the turbans at mehndis. Headgear can be very elegant and regal; and turbans say both of those things. It’s not really a ‘new’ look — it’s the day time look for a lot of rural Pakistanis. But, then again, we do live in the modern world and the look can become difficult.”

On the other hand Designer Mohsin Ali, who recently showcased his collection at PFDC, stated, “Turbans have already been catered on the ramps as well as the racks in the West, but we can only spot them on the ramps in Pakistan.” He also added that, “Turbans don’t complement evening gowns but would look great if accompanied with day wear.”

However, runway trends aren’t exactly an accurate picture of reality. Our turbans exist within the ornate context of bridalwear but unravel entirely when it comes to day/evening use. We witness a sharp disconnect; Pakistani men with buying power are all about ‘culture’ when it comes to fashion-weeks but will otherwise bust out the infallible Zara or D&G shirt with a Hermes belt at parties and evening occasions. Is it possible that we’ve become a little too whitewashed?

With their roguish good looks and Mughal-esque stature, a great multitude of Pakistani men would look super posh, if not downright eye-catching, in looks that celebrate culture.

“Is this for a wedding?” asks a sales-rep at a Junaid Jamshed outlet, utterly shocked that anyone would take to the excellent turbans (Rs4,000 a piece — cheaper replicas also available elsewhere) for the sake of their artistry. One hot pink turban, in particular, would go well with one of Jamshed’s own black, gold-embroidered sherwanis (Rs7,000 and up) and a pair of well-fitting black or even navy jeans; if worn with the right attitude, the man will find himself the centre of attention at any fancy soiree. Even a casual kurta (a nice, mustard-yellow one from Khaadi at Rs2,800) works with a darker turban. Rokni adds, “There’s a picture of me in a hot pink turban with a preppy outfit. The headgear seems to complement prep.”

For a more ‘toned down’ look, the turban may also be accentuated when worn with an all-black ensemble: a turtleneck and jeans (even trousers) — imbibing a sense of Byronic mystery while promoting and revamping the region’s timeless headpieces.

Finally, a call to all our local designers: Make desi headgear accessible for casual/evening wear (aka beyond bridals) before Lady Gaga steals the look entirely and appropriates it into the West’s hegemony on global fashion trends.

Published in The Express Tribune, November 15^th, 2011.

Fashion Industry grows with induction of youngsters

2011-11-16T20:01:00.000-08:00

Models display creations by designer Amir Baig during a Fashion show in Karachi.—AP Photo

LAHORE: The flourishing fashion industry grows with the involvement of more youngsters and a variety of fashion shows.

According to model and actor Ash khan, the fusion of conventional and modern trends has generated interest from fashion lovers of different cultures and has also invited investors to support the fashion industry in Pakistan.

“Pakistani designers are known in international markets now and many international shows feel proud to invite Pakistani designers… [this] not only improves the content of their runway, but also projects the soft image of the country as a talented young generation,” she said.

The dying film industry of Pakistan took away the investors from Lollywood but the flourishing fashion industry is bringing them back as Indian, Arab and other foreign designers flock to hold shows in Pakistan.

However, talking to APP Ash Khan also added that it was a risky task to hold a show because of security problem and lack of interest by the people.

Khan said that a similar enthusiasm and interest of the young generation can bring a revolution to the dying film industry of Pakistan and gain the attention of foreign and local investors with new ideas.

“The people related to fashion and film industries want to promote art and entertainment in Pakistan. The fashion industry can play a big role in current economic situation of Pakistan, and spread our culture and traditions to other civilizations across the border,” she said.

Fashion shows, Galas and fashion weeks give the opportunity to entertain people and also enrich the atmosphere of society as well as assist the progressive culture.

Bollywood star Aishwarya Rai Bachchan gives birth to baby girl

2011-11-15T23:53:00.001-08:00

MUMBAI: Bollywood's golden couple, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and her husband Abhishek Bachchan , became proud parents for the first time on Wednesday with the birth of a baby girl.

Fashion Mantra congratulates the Bachchans.

Aishwarya: A style check

2011-11-15T12:28:00.000-08:00

A black suit, a winner smile...we think she is dressed for the situation.

This Sabyasachi number she wore at Raavan premiere in London was widely acclaimed.

Blue is elegant and cool. But this electric blue number sort makes us wonder if she changed her stylist for this one occasion.

Sherwani Collections

2011-11-15T02:13:00.000-08:00

Sherwani has always been our very own ensemble! Having originated in South Asia, this outfit became a court dress of nobles and the royals of the subcontinent. During the 18th century it evolved as a fusion of the shalwar kameez with the British fro ck coat before becoming a symbol of Muslim aristocracy. This outfit's historical significance is evident from the fact that most of the renowned Muslim leaders of that time donned it.
Over the years, the sherwani has comfortably found an indelible place in the wardrobes of men from the subcontinent. So what if its use is limited, its use is special! Pakistani men proudly dress up in this sartorial piece for an occasion they remember all their lives. The wedding ceremony is incomplete without a sherwani and a turban. Heavier suiting fabric in shades of crème, white, off-white and black, with heavy embroidery along the collar and cuffs make the outfit grand. Pair it with a straight-legged pyjama or a shalwar and a red-coloured turban to further accentuate the royalty of the ensemble as well as of the occasion!

I Text: Nazeefa
I Label: Raja Jee by Imran Khan
I Photography: Shahbaz Shazi
I Styling: Fahad Yaqoob
I Grooming: Basit Ali
I Coordination: Umer Mushtaq

Mehndi A Celebration Of Colours

2011-11-14T00:56:00.000-08:00

Yellow garlands, fragrance of henna and the strong beats of dhol remind us of nothing other than the joyous event of mehndi. In our subcontinent, mehndi is a traditional affair that precedes the wedding ceremony – friends, cousins and close relatives of the bride-to-be gather to celebrate amidst the beautiful colours of a heartwarming event. A predominantly female-only occasion, the colour palette of this rasm has always been the same with bright yellows, oranges and reds adorning everything from the outfit of the bride-to-be to her sisters and even the decoration. This year around, designers have cleverly incorporated and blended unorthodox shades of turquoise along with red and orange to give a fresh feel to the mehndi ensemble. A particular focus has been given to the bodice, with oval shaped bodices donning eastern geometrical patterns and intricate thread work and embroidery. Matching churidaar pyjamas and garlands are a must, but you already knew that, didn't you?

Text: Rida
Hair, Make-up& Photography: Khawar Riaz
Label: Reet
Designer: Dr. Ayaz
Models: Maya, Fiza & Marium

Soha Ali Khan’s Bridal Dress

2011-11-13T12:04:00.000-08:00

Catching snippets of this amazing photo spread of Verve’s November 2011 issue on Twitter, we were thrilled to see Soha Ali Khan looking her ethnic best! Take a look at these rustic, high-fashion pictures of bridal Soha.

The picture that captured our attention the most is this super shot of Soha resting on a Louis Vuitton round luggage bag. Wow!

With just the right elements, accessories and hints of classic Louis Vuitton, this storyboard paints a lovely picture of the blushing bride.

Bridal COUTURE WEEK Institutionalising Bridal Beauty

2011-11-13T00:59:00.000-08:00

Flimsy decor, exotic flowers, grandeur, rich colours… these are the words that best explain the aura and ambiance of Style 360 Bridal Couture Week (BCW). The third season of the grand bridal show was held at the Pearl Continental Lahore. The event commenced with its entire splendour carrying forward some of its hitches and overcoming a few that it saw during the previous season. For one, this time around BCW started only half an hour late which is a pleasant change, it brought forward not only the best creations of famed fashion designers but also presented a wide palette of theatrics infront of a live audience.

The extravagant bridal show was held on the 15th and 16th of October with the city's crème de la crème coming together to participate. Despite the dengue scare, cars queued outside the hotel and pedestrians hurriedly tried to find their way in through high security checks. Laying ahead was a narrow pathway lined with Christmas lights over a thick red carpet, decorated along the sidelines were images of the last Bridal Show. Following the red carpet area were more dramatic effects; bare trees were aesthetically placed on both sides of the ramp, life like peacocks crafted completely out of flowers stood perched on them. The ramp too was lined with the same flowers and spiral crystal chandeliers hung above. The event was definitely bigger and better than its previous seasons and the creative team had outdone themselves.
The show started with Mona Imran's bridal collection who decided to start slow with soft pastel gowns, building up towards more elaborate lehngas. The gowns were detailed with silver embroidery and jamawar choori pyjamas brightened up single toned shirts.
Kosain Kazmi was next with his Mughul inspired collection, pulling out one beautiful dress after the other. His was a colourful palette of bright jamawar intertwined with chundri fabric. The bridal dresses were not mere lehngas, they were more like gowns trailing behind with thick gold borders. This was the first time a model wearing black sashayed on to the ramp that evening.
Up next were the duo Saba and Misbah of the label 'Hijab'. Their focus was on kalidar shirts, artfully using applique work on a palette of bright yellows and greens. The choori pyjamas were lined with beadings and buttons to give an added effect.

Bina Sultan from BNS Couture presented her line of winter bridal wear with velvet capes over gowns. Their fusion of thick velvet with netted fabric and contemporary mirror work on dresses would have been beautiful if not paired with the contrasting gold jewels.
Round two of day one started with the talented MEHDI for whom Waseem Akram dressed in a sherwani made a special appearance. This, however was not the only special appearance since model and actress Iman Ali too waltzed on to the ramp looking slightly pale but still beautiful nonetheless in a striking white gown.
Fahad Hussayn wowed the audience with not just his bold designs but also the dramatic way his collection was presented. The models wore black netted veils which clearly showed off their unconventional jewels and matha pattis. This collection too was full of surprises as singer Quratullain Baloch made an appearance that marked the end of day one, not just displaying a piece from Hussayn's collection but also entertaining the audience with live music.
Day two kicked off (fashionably an hour and a half late) with the 'Dera Jutta' women inspired collection of self embossed ivory palate with muted embellishments. Adorned with velvet applique work and laden with chundri dupattas and layers upon layers of fabric!
Motifs depicting the Mughal era are still quite popular as Saira Rizwan gave them a twist from the classic silk painted to motifs on velvet. She vamped up the bridal gown with belts over sheer cloaks and the seventies inspired hairdos completed the look. To further add spice to an already steaming collection, the very talented Omar Iftikhar sang (with his eyes closed – a huge audience can be very intimidating) a wise, tasteful selection of Bollywood numbers. His voice mesmerised the audience and the spell was broken by the beautiful film star Resham; as she boldly came and took over the ramp with a beautiful banarsi fabric lehnga bedazzled by intricate embroidery on net.
Sadaf Arshad changed the aura completely with her turquoise and soap green collection voluminous gowns. With background music of Ali Zafar from his latest Sufi album, the collection and choreography both stole the show. Model and actress Fizza Ali brought this sequence to an end adorning a beautiful green and white dress.
More paneled cloaks, velvet and banarsi borders appeared along Shazia Bayani's collection who brought forward a traditional red-bride parade. The dupattas were weighed down further with heavy tussels and the frail models were laden with more layers!
The trio from India, Rabbani and Rakha redefined the traditional gota and started off with a very unconventional collection that although showed their creative sides but failed to define bridal beauty. Their experiments with net and heavy kamdani on sheer saris lined with sequenced fabric, she stole the show. Hadiqa Kiyani shone in an orange dress by the talented designers and received great applaud.
Ali Xeeshan, the talented young designer brought forward farshi ghararas, mukesh dupattas and ivory gowns. He improvised the bride-grooms dress with pieces from his bridal collection such as a heavy dupatta and even a mermaid lehnga! Xeeshan was the only one to fuse cottons with silks and accentuate them with pearls and beadings to bring a fresh new flavor to the traditional bridal attire.
Concluding the two day even was 'La chantel'. The designers collection had been a huge success in the second BCW and she came back to stupefy the audience with more glorious trousseau.

Theatrics
The designers were not the only ones who stole the show; infact there was another art form that made the audience dizzy with excitement – literally!
This was a Turkish version of spiraling sufi dance, performed by the extremely gifted young boy, Hamada. This talented performer spiraled non stop for a whopping twenty minutes, making the audience cry out with sheer joy as he pulled off one trick after the other. This visual delight was one that many had never seen before and was a class apart from all other performances previously seen at the BCW.
Other performances were by Maryam, who performed Lollywood style on a dance choreographed by Pappu Samrat and one by model Fia who performed a classical dance.
Bridal Trends this season
For the winter bride, velvet is a must. Whether in the form of trimmings, applique, hems, borders or if you are more daring, complete cloaks!
Black is the new red! The colour traditionally avoided by brides can be tastefully and stylishly added to your bridal gown. From black bodices to black velvet trimmings on hems, this will add the extra oomph you need on your big day.
Layers and length are here to stay. Add layers to your gown giving it more volume for a more sixties look or get a long embroidered shirt that can be paired with a lehnga on the big day and churidar pyjamas on other occasions.
Cloaks and capes might change shape, size and volume but they add richness to any outfit. Trailing cloaks with intricate silver embellishments are must haves for the modern bride.
What the participants had to say
It was a mad rush backstage but the designers were eager to voice their views. Here is what some of the participating designers had to say.
Saba and Misbah – Designers
"Bridal Couture Week is an excellent platform for designers to showcase their talent and get noticed. Our work is simply inspired by beauty – any girl would feel beautiful wearing these designs"
Sabeena Pasha – Model
"BCW this year is more organised and has a renewed energy about it that everyone can feel. The makeup is different and so is the choreography. The dresses are smart and simply beautiful"
Saira Omer – Jewellery Designer
"Because of the skyrocketing jewellery prices, the current trend should be to have portable poeces that can be shuffled around to create something new and different each time. This way the money saved on jewellery can be used for something more important like buying a house or even a car!"
Sunita Marshall – Model
"The dresses are to die for! They have lots of length and layers upon layers of fabric. Any bride would feel beautiful wearing them."

Must-Haves for the Indian Bride

2011-11-12T12:01:00.000-08:00

Every bride wants to looks like a million bucks on her wedding day. So why go for what everyone else is wearing? Try something different and stand out, we say. Here are four wardrobe must-haves that the modern Indian bride must have.

Sweeping skirts: Farshi ghararas and voluminous skirts are being worn with long tailored sherwani jackets, lehengas, saris and anarkalis. "Several designers have drawn their inspiration from Indian royalty and old world charm this season”, says Gayatri Shahani, of Ensemble. Says JJ Vallaya, "It is no secret that India has a rich legacy of craft along with a deep sense of history. The look is royal and farshi leghangas with skirts are a rage."

Play with nude: The colour palette varies from mint green, pink, red and maroon to white and cream, with the most dominant colour of the season being nude. Distinct colour choices and combinations from aubergine to green or white to burgundy, blue and peach are evident this season. The designers have used an assortment of fabrics this season, ranging from velvets and chiffons to satins, in some cases even brocade.

Magic of sheer: Lace is big; sheer fabric brings sensuality. "Lacy and sheer kurtis are a must-have in your bridal wardrobe," says designer Puja Nayyar. "Traditional embroideries have evolved into more delicate forms. In terms of embellishments, multicoloured thread embroidery and chantilly lace are big this season."

Says designer Hina Anjum, "Lace and sheer bring sensuality to clothes. Even lacy pyjamas are really hot with skin peeping from it."

Graceful gowns: The elegant yet chic appeal of the sari gown makes it an ideal outfit for not only sangeet but cocktail parties as well. "Gowns in bridal wear are hot this season. You could play with sheer, lace and embroideries," says designer Anjana Bhargava.

top-5-most-elegant-and-expensive

2011-11-11T12:48:00.001-08:00

Watches are not just style statements, but heirloom pieces too. And exquisite watches usually go back to a few hundred years. It is not just the technology, but the design that takes them to wardrobes of A-listers. Engineering like the tourbillon was invented in the 1700's, which counters the effects of gravity that would make the timepiece imprecise. Here are five most elegant time pieces.

The IWC's Grande Complication Perpetual
Watchmaker IWC has been churning out high-quality watches for over 100 years. Tom Cruise brought the IWC to the spotlight recently when he wore the IWC vintage. The IWC Grande Complication has 659 mechanical parts and 75 jewels. With 12 patents it has 21 functions and displays. It also has an eternal calendar, which makes it good enough for the next 500 years. Also it is combined with a perpetual moon phase display made of polished goldstone.
The case and band are made of solid platinum and the piece chimes out the time 'in crystal clear tones'. Production is limited to 20 watches per year.
Available at The Taj Mahal Palace & Tower, Mumbai; price $240,000 (approx Rs. 1.08 crore)

Vacheron Constantin's Tour de L'ile
The Vacheron Constantin Tour de L'ile, is considered to be the most complex watch ever made. This masterpiece can go on for 10,000 hours without manual winding. This piece has two faces; the back shows time too. Only seven pieces of this gold-plated watch are made every year.
Available at The Taj Mahal Palace & Tower, Mumbai and Emporio Mall, New Delhi; price $1.5 million (approx Rs. 6.7 crore)

Girard Perregaux's Opera Three Musical Hours Watch
The opera three is an amazing piece of art. There are 20 blades and a drum inside the watch along with 150 hand-mounted pins. There is a lever to allow the music to be played on demand and can be personalized to taste (Mozart or Tchaikovsky). This watch made of 18-carat white gold has an alligator strap, and sapphire crystal in its dial. It is water resistant to 50 meters, is self-winding and has 50 hours of power in reserve.
Available at The prime - Luxury watch boutique, Crossroads II, Mumbai and Johnson Watch & co., Connaught Place, New Delhi; price $420,000 (approx Rs. 1.9 crore)

Front and back view of Sky Moon Tourbillon

The Patek Philippe Sky Moon Tourbillon 5002 P
The platinum Sky Moon Tourbillon 5002 P is composed of 688 parts, some of which are microscopically tiny. It is double faced with a 48 hour power reserve. It comes with a sapphire crystal dial and a black crocodile leather band. Only two units are produced each year in platinum and a rose gold.
Available online at Patek Phillipe; price $1.5 million (approx Rs. 6.7 crore); Service center: Marcks & Co., M. G. Road, Mumbai

Front and back view of Le Brassus

Blancpain's Le Brassus
The Carrousel Répétition Minutes Le Brassus is sure a master piece. The clock tells the hour with a cathedral gong. This watch allows you to keep a track of time by the minute, quarter hour or hour, as and how you want it. In short, the gong can be set to go off every minute, quarter hour or hour. While usually repeaters are vulnerable to damage if the owner attempts to change the time, the technology in this one allows you to disconnect its mechanism and eliminate risk of damage. In red gold, alligator skin strap, this is a limited edition wrist watch. Only 10 units are produced every year.
Available at Blancpain Boutique, Juhu; price: on request

Bipasha Basu’s New Furniture Print Ad

2011-11-11T11:58:00.001-08:00

Would you guess there’s a furniture brand behind these pictures? We wouldn’t, for sure. Even L’Oreal would agree; because the first shot some what does remind us of Ash and her L’Oreal print advertisement.

Voluminous gowns and all, what say, does Bipasha swallow the brand altogether or does it make you want to buy a couch from her right this minute?! Hot shoot or not? Leave us a comment and let us know.

Sajjal Ali In Stunning Bridal Jewelry

2011-11-10T07:02:00.000-08:00

Very Young, Beautiful and talented Pakistani TV Actress Sajjal Ali done photoshoot for Stunning Bridal Jewelry, Have a Look!

Amir Adnan’s latest Eid collection for Men

2011-11-07T10:54:00.000-08:00

The House of Amir Adnan is emerging as a truly global fashion brand. network that it is creating is rapidly intertwining people from diverse origins, especially from the Emirates, Pakistan and India. Amir Adnan presents fashion dresses for both boys and girls. For this eid they recently launched Dresses for boys . There are traditional kurtas in this collection with very elegant work on these. This collection fully covers boys fashion for eid and also for other traditional occasions. Variety of colors and designs is available according to choice. Here is collection of eid dresses for you!

Eid Dresses for Men By Amir Adnan:

Amir Adnan’s latest eid collection

Decent Dresses for Men

Elegant kurta shalwar

Stylish Eid wear

Bright colored Kurtas

Decent wear

Stylish work on kurtas

source: Amir Adnan

How to Choose the Right Heels

2011-11-06T22:29:00.000-08:00

Image courtesy: Thinkstock/ Getty images

Unlike Carrie Bradshaw in Sex and the City, who chased men, taxis, and sometimes a dog in the park in her six-inch stilettos (and still managed to look glamorously sexy), sporting high heels in real life can be a killer. But believe it or not, most women love their heels so much that in spite of the many problems that plague their feet, they refuse to give up on their stilettos, even if it causes them discomfort!

The heel hangover
Forget alcohol, more women suffer from the high heel hangover, after a night of dancing away in their shoes. Your calf muscle contracts when you lift your leg to walk but, in high heels, your ankle is a few inches above the ground before taking a step, so the calf has to work much harder. If your muscle isn’t used to it, like going to the gym for a workout, it will stiffen up the next day! If you are a slave to fashion and cannot do without high heeled shoes, try the following to make your feet more comfortable.

The right fit
Sounds incredulous but most wear footwear at least half a size too small. It’s important your shoes fit properly, as your toes should have space to move. Measure your feet every time you buy shoes, as even a few extra pounds can make your shoe size larger. The number one reason why women experience pain or get blisters or abrasions from their high heels is because they wear shoes that aren’t the right size. Remember, if you shoes don’t fit right, it doesn’t matter how cute they are.

Exercise your feet
A lifetime of poor shoe choices means that we need to make foot fitness a priority. It is possible to undo much footwear damage if you follow certain exercises. Stretching out your legs and feet the morning after you’ve danced the night away in towering heels, lengthens the muscles and gets the blood flowing again. Core strengthening exercises, three times a week, can help stabilize your feet and decrease the stress from high heeled shoes. They also help with backache, knee pain and foot pain caused by instability. You can also do yoga.

Provide cushion
While a full-shoe insert can help, if you have pain in the ball of the foot or if you will be standing in your heels for a long time, invest in silicone metatarsal pads. They look like flattened gummy bears, and absorb shock. There are even some that are specifically designed to be used with high heels to reduce blistering

Choose a thicker heel
Try to avoid a severely pointed heel and go for a square toe box. A thicker heel will give you better balance, stability and may help relieve some pressure by distributing the weight of your body on your foot more evenly. It’s always better to wear a wider and more supportive heel. For example, a wedged heel is less demanding on the leg muscles, as it has a larger surface area, so it is more stable. The thinner the heel, the more impact on your foot.

Pamper your feet
Get a regular pedicure. Having a pedicure and keeping your toenails in good shape can help with ingrown toenails, also caused by shoe pressure. It will soothe your tired and achy feet. If your feet are too dry, apply a moisturiser, as they can develop rough areas on pressure points, which can crack and become painful. For best results apply apply the mousturiser after a bath.

Take a heel holiday
If you’ve been sporting high heels for a continuous stretch, it’s a good idea to give your feet a chance to relax. Walking around barefoot sounds ideal but is highly impractical, so invest in a good pair of flats or sneakers. After all, your feet deserve to be treated well too!

Your Guide to Hair Colour

2011-11-05T21:57:00.000-07:00

Image courtesy: Thinkstock

A new hair colour can transform your look overnight and when you are bored with it, you can change it again. But there are certain factors to keep in mind before opting for one.

Check your tone category
While choosing the perfect hair colour for yourself, it is important to determine which colour group you belong to. Those with a yellow or a golden skin tone fall into the warmer category. Hair colours which have a warm overtone will look natural and better. Whereas, those with a pink skin tone fall into the cool category and cool shades will suit you the best.

Understanding levels and tones
One of the most important factors is to understand the level and the colour tones. Tone refers to whether a hair colour is warm or cool. The warm colours are red, yellow and orange. The hair colour selection card has colour boxes, where there are references to ‘medium warm brown’ or ‘natural golden brown’. This means that the undertone to the colour is warm. On the other hand, the cool colours are blue, green and purple/violet. If the card box has names referring to ‘dark ash blonde’, it refers to the green, blue or purple undertones.

Are you a colour newbie?
If you are new to the world of colour, start with a semi-permanent one. These colours wash out after a few washes, whereas the permanent ones take a longer time. Always remember that selecting a new hair colour is not for beginners. If the right choice does not work, the results can be devastating. Michelle Tung, hairstylist, says, “For a colour newbie, it is safe to play with different shades of brown. Burgundy is the safest bet.”

Keep in mind
There are some factors which play a huge role when you are selecting a colour for yourself.
>    Determine the hair’s condition, porosity and elasticity.
>    Choose a colour according to your lifestyle (take into consideration your work environment, dressing style and other social factors).
>    Since hair colours contain strong chemicals, ensure that you are not allergic to the colour. Always opt for a skin test. Sapna Bhavnani, hairstylist, adds, “Hair type and chemical treatments are very important in deciding the colour palette. If your hair is dry and frizzy, you should stay away from blondes and any palette that will require high levels of peroxide to achieve.”

Choose the correct shade
The skin tone is usually divided into two categories — warm and cool.

Rose (Warm): For a person with light toned skin with pink or porcelain undertones, ruby-reds, cocoa-bean browns and champagne blondes work the best. Bhavnani suggests, “Fair complexions can carry off most colours, but jet black and ash blonde should be avoided. Warm tones work brilliant on fair complexions like copper, honey, chocolate, reds and plums.”

Brown (Warm): Hairstylist Savio John Pereira, says, “For a person with dusky complexion, toasted-pecan brown with hints of gold works the best. Shades of copper should be avoided.”

Yellow (Cool): For a person with light medium or beige undertones, you can opt for light strawberry blondes, caramel or baby blondes.

Olive (Cool): For a person with medium-toned skin with a hint of green undertones, chestnut browns and red hues with cooler notes work the best.

Shades of browns, auburns, reds with a subtle hi-lite create texture and movement. Brown suits most skin tones and is very popular. If you have a swarthy or a tanned complexion, coffee or taffy brown suits the best. If you want to head for the dramatic look, red is the perfect choice for women. Whereas, blonde has a certain zest and is uber popular.

The rates for hair colour varies from each salon. But normally, the charges are between Rs 1,500 - Rs 12,000 (approx) for global colouring as well as highlight.

Rijas Bridal wear Collection | Latest Fashion in Bridal Wear

2011-11-03T12:42:00.000-07:00

Rijas Fashion (Pvt) Ltd. based in Pakistan, is a large company dedicated in producing superior quality fabric, dresses, lace and all kind of embroidered stuff those widely used for fashion fabric, under wear and home use textiles. Rijas Group is one of the leading textile groups of Pakistan. Rijas Group has proven that quality and excellence never goes out of scene ever. Rijas Fashion is serving their valued clients and customers with customization and highly personalized assistance. Rijas Fashion is now producing different quality of fabrics in 100% cotton and various mixed blends, embroidering, stitching and top quality fashion garments. Its fabrics, tones and designs have opened up a multitude of variations for urban and leisurewear.

Rijas Fashion has recently launched its Latest Bridal Collection 2011. Rijas Bridal Collection 2011 has portrait eastern culture, ethnic values and bright colors with the quality and variety of fine fabric. Rijas Fashion designers really know about latest trends and values of different cultural festivals and that’s why they are so successful to produce high quality trendy outfits. In this Rijas Bridal Collection 2011 you will notice the range of color scheme from hue to vibrant shades those are the true colors for the wedding occasions. It is a collection of beautiful bridal dresses for beautiful brides. This collection also has wedding formal dresses. Pakistani model and actress Aamina Sheikh and film-star Resham did the fashion photo shoot for the latest Rijas Bridal Collection for weddings. To have a complete look, please scroll down to navigate…!

Baraat Dress

Banarasi Lehenga

This is a typical bridal dress in cultural replica. This bridal dress is fine mix of modern fashion techniques and old cultural style. This is in-fact a bridal lehnga choli that is being gradually modified and customized by the Rijas Fashion designers perfectly. Very fancy and heavy embroidery work has been done on it with fine mix of zari work on silky fabric. The embedded design is so cool and appropriate for the cause. Shoulder less top blouse has given this dress a modern touch which is the need of time. Red and green color combination is just awesome and perfect.

Walima Saree

Embroidered Pallu

This bridal saree in purple and pink color fabric is looking dashing. The color scheme really works and also the fine embroidery and designing work at the borders of saree pallu is looking really marvelous. The blouse is in modern style having single shoulder sleeve less pattern. Spotted embedded design on fabric and the glorious lace work at lower border both are giving the splendid right work on a bridal dress.

Bridal Party Wear

Black Saree

Cultural Bridal Wear

Lehenga Choli for Wedding

Engagement wear

Mayoon Wear

Mehndi Wear

Empowering women: Crafting fashion

2011-11-02T21:02:00.000-07:00

Many of the creations worked on by Sabah workers were displayed in Nepal. PHOTOS: PUBLICITY

LAHORE:

Heritage crafts have taken a sudden and much needed turn towards fashion. Whether it’s the collaboration of the government organistation Aik Hunar Aik Nagar (Ahan) with designer Sahar Atif and the subsequent exhibition at the PFDC Sunsilk Fashion Week last year, or the Saarc initiative Saarc Business Association of Home Based Workers (Sabah) portraying their recent collection at Nepal, those working for the revival of craft have understood the need to marry heritage with fashion to create a viable product. The Express Tribune speaks to Saad Khan, CEO of Sabah Pakistan, upon his return from a fashion showcase in Nepal about female empowerment through craft and its future in fashion.

How does it help to have the Saarc countries involved in a women empowerment project such as Sabah?

There are projects that have previously worked towards women empowerment but in pockets. Sabah is different in this way because it’s based on a regional platform which leads to more exposure, outreach and impact. It provides an opportunity for artisan women workers from all Saarc countries to share their experiences and truly feel part of a larger community outside their own small rural settings. This has a huge impact on their self-esteem and allows for continuation and preservation of traditional embroidery skills.

On what level does Sabah manage to empower women involved with it?

It is our primary objective to economically empower women by creating income opportunities for them that can be sustained over a long period of time. Our members eventually graduate to small independent business owners that can sell their products to the market directly. We work very closely with them in areas of design, quality and what trends sell in the market. Most importantly we are providing them with a platform to market and sell their goods without exploiting their wages and earnings. We are a fair trade organisation and ensure that our members realise the value of their work. Our consumers also feel proud buying Sabah products since almost 40 per cent of the revenue goes directly to the home based women workers.

Does this initiative have any impact on Indo-Pak relations?

India is a huge market for Pakistani products, especially apparel. I believe that this collective effort will improve regional ties and create a sense of familiarity outside the usual norms, which so far have been through music and films. Not only does it impact Indo-Pak relations but it also brings us closer to other Saarc members, which are equally important for regional empowerment.

Which Sabah products interest buyers the most?

Our unique embroidery interests buyers and the fact that we fuse traditional and trendy to make products that are affordable. There is hardly any novelty factor to it but more so it is utility based. Sabah’s outlet in Islamabad is a lifestyle shop where you can purchase handmade quality products such as apparel, home textiles, gift accessories and blue pottery. Our shoe racks, laundry hampers, wooden trays and blue art pottery are customer favourites.

What local designers would you want to assist you with Sabah (and which have been doing so in the past)?

Nilofer Shahid has been a mentor to our designer for the recent Ananta Nepal programme. She guided our lead designer Aneela Urooj in the early stages of design development and fabric selection. Nickie and Nina also supported Sabah Pakistan at our very first Annual General Meeting and our home based women workers (members) were thrilled to see them sitting amongst them. It was a great show of support.

What did Sabah showcase in Nepal and what did the organisation learn from the exhibition?

Ananta Nepal was a celebration of the Home Based Women Workers in the Saarc region under the umbrella of Sabah projects. Sabah Pakistan showcased their Jisti collection which had a unique embroidery from the Hazara district. There were other designers present from Nepal and India as well. Our collection was widely appreciated by local and foreign press. The ramp show was followed by two days of an open house exhibition, where Sabah Pakistan was the only counterpart from the region to sell its entire stock. The response from the other Saarc country consumers was overwhelming.

Published in The Express Tribune, November 3^rd, 2011.

Men Eid Collection

2011-11-02T08:35:00.000-07:00

Simplicity Par Excellence!
Got bored of trying every new fashion statement and yet feeling unsatisfied? It's time to look back to the traditional kurta-trouser combination, but with a ravishing touch of elegance. These tailored outfits will be a good pick not only for Eid, but also for weddings and mehndis you are going to attend in the days to come, provided that you are not the groom. The black one has shoulder straps with silver buttons which make a perfect combination. All you need to do is to pick up and wear it to enjoy the peculiar experience the black-white combination brings. Half of the maroon kurta presents a button-through with black wrappings on cuffs and neck. Inspired slightly from the sherwani style, this dress is for you if you want to enchant others with colour, charm and class. The brown has all the modesty it needs to support its class. Grab these pairs without seeking the attention from others – let the attraction of the outfit handle that part!

Text: Zain
Designer: Ismail Farid
Photography & Grooming: Munna Mushtaq
Model: Samama

Aishwarya Rai Bachchan turns 38 today

2011-11-01T10:08:00.000-07:00

Aishwarya Rai Bachan

Bollywood actress and mother-to-be Aishwarya Rai-Bachchan, is turning 38 today and will celebrate her birthday with family and close friends.

"She will be celebrating her birthday with family...like she always does," a source close to the actress said.

There is a buzz that the Bachchan family is planning a grand party this evening, where besides, family members, several B-town personalities would be coming.

Recently, the Bachchans hosted a grand 'godh bharai' ceremony for Aishwarya, where several actresses came in to shower their blessings.

In June this year, Aishwarya's father-in-law and superstar Amitabh Bachchan, had announced, through micro blogging site twitter, that she is expecting a child. It was reported that the baby is due in November.

Aishwarya was to play the leading lady in Madhur Bhandarkar's upcoming project 'Heroine'. However, the film was put on hold and later it was revealed that Kareena Kapoor will play the character instead.

Having started her career as a model, Aishwarya went on to win the 1994 Miss World pageant and then turned to Bollywood for a career in acting.

The actress had made a debut in Mani Ratnam's Tamil film 'Iruvar' in 1997 and had her first commercial success with the Tamil movie - 'Jeans'(1998).

In 1997, she entered Bollywood through Rahul Rawail's film 'Aur Pyar Ho Gaya'. Though the film failed at the box office, Aishwarya bagged the 'Star Screen' award for the Most Promising Newcomer. She gained attention in Bollywood through Sanjay Leela Bhansali's film 'Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam' (1999), for which, she won the Filmfare Best Actress award.

She was last seen in Bhansali's 'Guzaarish' (2010) opposite Hrithik Roshan. Though, was not a hit at the box office, it was critically acclaimed and won awards and nominations at several award ceremonies.

PFDC Fashion Week Of Glitz, Glamour & Business!

2011-11-01T08:07:00.001-07:00

The fourth edition of PFDC Fashion Week, in collaboration with the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP) and Expo Pakistan, set its sights firmly on increasing business and institutionalising the infant industry to become an integral part of Pakistan's global exports. The event saw 23 designers showcase their prêt-a-porter collection on ramp and exhibitions, over four tumultuous days of high quality fashion that brought together a bevy of prospective buyers, media men and the who's who of Pakistan's fashion circle.
Day 1 kick started with Maria B's Neo Natives collection that was inspired by the Aztec and Persian cultures. The collection had a wide variety of ensembles with fused palazzo pants, tunics, evening gowns et cetera, all with sophisticated geometric prints along the hemlines and on the edges of free-flowing sleeves. The colour palette sported predominantly black, whites and crème, with an occasional influx of colour in some ensembles. Maria B's collection was followed by Aurora Luminescence – The Glowing Murk, Zonia's men's and women's wear debut collection. The outfits employed unique and unusual fabrics without embroidery and were designed with ruffles and layering. Her collection was signified by the use of luminous fabric that glowed in the dark, but failed to live up to the expectations.
Next up was Zaheer Abbas, whose Myth took the audiences back to the Roman era, when wet-draping technique was employed by artists to create a fluid look of the fabric. Zaheer craftily infused this element in his collection with the use of chiffons on tenne and gamboge shades of orange with complementing motifs.
Nida Azwer initiated with her collection Foliaceous that incorporated shades of green and navy with prominent use of brown on hemlines and necklines. The collection highlighted her source of inspiration with leafy prints and textures in flowy silhouettes in cotton, linen and occasional satin silk base. This was followed by collections presented by eight young aspiring designer students of PIFD, who put together an amalgam of retro and modern apparel with skirts, long shirts, gowns and tops. In the backdrop of a techno beat, the first collection had futuristic pieces with shots of brown and blacks paired with contrasting orange belts and Lady Gaga-inspired headgear. The collection seemed to specifically target foreign buyers evident from the western influence on the dresses.

Next up were soft pastel greens infused with dark pinks, pearl white and crème shaded Greek goddess gowns, khaddar wrap-arounds with Peshawari topis and a dash of colour and intricate detailing. One particular collection that caught attention was the Rajasthan-inspired dresses with modified angarkhas and lehngas. The palette had unorthodox choice of colours and drifted away from the usual red and maroon combination with the inclusion of pinks, greens and blues. Akif Mehmood lived up to the expectation set by his critically acclaimed Kailash inspired collection of last year. This year he brought forth a sartorial anthology that wooed audiences again – Mast Patang drew inspiration from the festival of Basant. The designer employed the use of velvets, linens, chiffons and cotton as the base for a bright vibrant colour palette highlighted by desi rhombus shaped embroidery. The ensembles included waistcoats, jackets, jumpsuits all imbued with a touch of Basant's tradition.
The second day of the fashion week commenced with Nickie Nina's Sous-Marine that was inspired by the aquatic world. The oceanographic collection made use of raw silk, crepe de chine and chiffon, with pleats and minimal cuts. The outfits were emphasised by pearl and chain embellishments and cotton ball laces and tassels along the hemlines. This was followed by Zainab Sajid's Hala-Lujah that failed to bring forth something different. Chiffons and silks were predominantly used with clichéd flowy silhouettes and motifs. Mohsin's Drawing The Line went flat out with bold use of traffic-signal colours on a black base. The black in his ensembles were mainly contrasted with pastel red, blue, green and yellow hues in sharp geometric patterns. His skirts and shirts, all sported contrasting cuffs and collars in the initial outfits, which were later followed by long skirts with white and black striped patterns. The second act had Sania Maskatiya, debutante M. Irfan Ali and FNKAsia showcasing their collections on the ramp. Sania's luxury collection was focused more towards cuts and draping, and used block, screen and digital printing on pure chiffons, silk and crepe, with a minimal crystal and metallic embellishments. This was followed by M. Irfan Ali's Marachay – The Melting Pot Of Punjab. Models sashayed down the ramp dressed in puffed skirts and shirts, with velvet appliqué and patchwork and traditional motifs. The ensembles with their round daamans, collars and the cautious use of reds and yellows over white gave them a traditional Punjabi feel. The colour palette then shifted to brighter hues with blues, yellows and floral patterns accentuated with birdcages as headdresses. The colour palette of Suzani, FNKAsia's collection at the fashion week seemed to be even with the upcoming season. The label maintained its element of funk in its outfits despite the influx of traditional Suzani needlework inspired from Uzbekistan and Bukhara. Darker shades of brown with needlework on the neckline and the selective use of paraphernalia on the periphery of these outfits reinforced Huma Adnan's high street label's philosophy – to "recreate indigenous local crafts and take them from almost extinction to the future of fashion."

Day three had a coquettish affair with Adnan Pardesy's Coquetry that stood out because of its vibrant use of colours and outstanding craftwork of the designer with the simplest of simplest fabrics – the muslin cloth. The designer redefined glamour with his bright monotone dresses for men and women both and set new standards for young designers like Batur to follow. The latter's Entrapment came next with a rebellious Iraj-strut as the opening sequence. Dressed in red, with a frilly top and leather blouse, and super stilettos, she set the tone for the rest of the act. Batur's ensembles added the glam-factor that had been missing in this show, but the collection seemed to be best suited for the racks because of its futuristic designs, mainly the structured shoulders and the redundant head-wear. Yahsir Waheed's men's prêt-a-porter collection titled Back To Life was inspired by the Indus Valley Civilisation. The designer brought forth an array of men's apparel from loose tapered pants to double-breast jackets. Waheed's collection emanated its casual feel because of the use of cotton, linen, ajrak and hand woven fabric. Khadi made the third day khaas by its tribute to the heart of Pakistan. The collection titled The City Within explored new creative territories as it put forward a collection that absolutely triumphed the audience. Computer graphically printed collage of Urdu newspapers, with their well-defined legible kitabat, postage stamps, extinct coins, truck art and what not. Elements that make Karachi the city it is were captured on fabric and displayed with poise. Lollywood cinema posters, architectural heritage from the Burnes Road and Kharadar area and the special dose of colours, with irregular hemlines, and pleats made the collection stand out from the rest. Next up was Hammad-ur-Rehman whose collection titled Zarrkhanam explored and infused Pashtun flavours in his ensembles with the perfect background music. Heavy golden embroidery on black chiffons, gowns, net saris for formal wear in dark tones, made prominent use of golden and maroon along the periphery and embroidery on the cuffs. Ammar Belal then changed the mood of the show with his Disco Inferno. Inspired from the disco fever of the 1970's, Belal's upbeat western collection had jeans, flared pants and bohemian outfits. Bright and colourful, the amalgam of candy colours and polka dots clearly defined the essence of the 70's disco culture, with the groovy tunes of Bee Gees' Stayin' Alive in the backdrop accented the act.
The final day of the fourth installment of PFDC Fashion Week had fashion big gun Kamiar Rokni in its opening act. This time around, Rokni employed "a minimalist approach to cut with a maximised take on colour." His Modernist pieces explored bold use of colours in silk crepe, viscose and stretch jersey fabrics with chic, urban and wearable outfits. Republic by Omar Farooq showcased a prêt-a-porter menswear collection titled Blaak Chrome inspired from tribal prints and modern architecture. The fabrics used for his ensembles were a concoction of cotton twills, microfiber, suede and leather. His outfits seemed to mark the return of the double-breast blazers and jackets that had long been extinct. This was followed by Ayesha Hashwani's clichéd collection that did not have anything new, the drapes and silhouettes on chiffon, silk and charmeuse embellished with beads, crystals and embroidery seemed too stale and did not live up to the designer's reputation. Later on Muse put forward its Confectionary collection with a candy pink and ice blue colours contrasted with black, creme and black white stripes. The collection had included jumpsuits, shirts, flared pants with prominent incorporation of pleats and wrinkles.
Muse's act was preceded by Pakistani fashion stalwart HSY, who, this time came up with a short and sweet collection with sunshine yellows and navy blue as central colours. His pret-a-porter women's collection was predominantly fusion wear, with saris paired with short jackets, summer dresses and long flowy dresses. His men's wear was primarily navy blue with minimal yellow contrasts, the look was accentuated with yellow painted kolhapuris.
The grand finale of the event was preceded by a short speech by PFDC spokesperson HSY who thanked the official sponsors, media partners, crew and the organizer for making this event a success. He then described the grand finale of the event, the Design Collaboration Project titled Glamour In Red. This project comprised of 24 designers who designed a red dress each with absolutely no creative limitations in defining glamour as they saw it. Models strutted down the ramp in pure red ensembles to close the event with a final dose of glamour!

Nilofer Shahid to represent Pakistan at World Fashion Week

2011-11-01T03:39:00.000-07:00

LAHORE - Pakistan will be officially welcomed at the first annual World Fashion Week (WFW) to be held in New York City in 2012. As a prelude of the historic gathering, WFW will welcome leading fashion designer Nilofer Shahid as the official representative of Pakistan during the welcoming gala in NYC set to kick off on November 11, 2011. Nilofer will join forces to encourage entrepreneurship activities, women empowerment and the eradication of global poverty, launching the global campaign “Give your Light to the World”.

Nilofer will gather with fashion icons, influential leaders and international media from five continents in a celebration of cultural diversity expressed through the artistic fashion discipline. WFW’s global campaign, “Give your Light to the World”, will further the objectives of “Fashion for Peace”. WFW and leading fashion councils in Pakistan have nominated Nilofer Shahid due to her efforts made in social and human development and women empowerment.

“As small streams come together into a boundless ocean, they create high spiritual waves and eventually bring a change with the breath of our own spirits!” said Nilofer. Nilofer Shahid is one of the pioneering fashion designers in Pakistan. She brought couture wear to the limelight in Pakistan. Her fashion house, Meeras, has been looked up to as the benchmark for elegance and regality in Pakistan. Her acclaim is not withheld in Pakistan alone; she has participated at Paris Fashion Week where juries equated her work to Dior.

Gautam Gambhir's wedding

2011-10-28T21:46:00.000-07:00

Gautam Gambhir and Natasha pose during their wedding ceremony, held in New Delhi on Friday 28,

Latest and Special Bridal Dress Design

2011-10-28T09:50:00.000-07:00

For this special issue a pakistani magazine got together an amazing

group of designers and gave each one of them free reign to come up

with their version of the summer bride. The results were as exiting as

they were varied. All chose to give the traditional red outfit a miss

in favour of experimental shades such as dusky pink, romantic peach,

soft blue, Feast your eyes as the following outfits will spread before

you design after design to pick from for the most special day of your

life. One thing is for sure this summer bride's is going to be spoilt

for sure.