Chiconomical

Happy Women's Day Everyone! Today's the day for celebrating all those strong women in your life who brave all odds and come out on top. Personally, I feel that amidst all the working women with high flying careers, people often forget the humble stay at home mom or sister, who work to help you get ahead in life. These women usually are working a lot more (read 24x7) and don't ask for much in return. If you're one of these women, this post is for you. I have a lot of stay at home women tell me that they don't dress up because well, they're home. However, this doesn't mean you can't make slight changes to look beautiful.

1. Accessories



Accessories can make or break an outfit, and this can't be denied. Any drab boring outfit can be brightened up by simply adding a statement accessory. Be it a bag, a necklace or sunglasses. If you've got to rush out in your busy schedule, then a piece of statement accessory is all the difference between a boring and a great outfit. Invest is a couple of interesting accessories, they're rather affordable and still make a great fashion statement.

2. Bold Prints

Sometimes, stay at home women tend to reach for all those greys and black. Well, a simple way to make your outfits more interesting is simply adding bold prints. Invest in a simple scarf in a great print or a pair of printed tops or trousers and you'll have something statement to pair with all your regular outfits. Believe in the power of a bold print, and you shall be rewarded! I promise!

3. Bright Colors


Just like bold prints are bright colors are yet another thing that is so simple to incorporate that you won't believe the difference it makes to your wardrobe. First off, try and understand

4. Flats and sandals



If you don't think bright colors and prints are a commitment you're willing to make right now, try investing in cute flats or sandals in bright colors. These are great for anyone on the run and will give you a bit of color and print in an otherwise everyday outfit.

5. Skirts

Yes, I know what you'll tell me, skirts are hard to pull off and usually if you're doing all the housework you're obviously not going to do it in a pencil skirt or a mini skirt that can potentially flash someone... but that is what maxi skirts are for. Maxi skirts are absolutely perfect for movement and style. Get a pleated one, or a simple gypsy skirt in an interesting print. Pair it with a tshirt or a buttoned up shirt for a chic look.

6. Borrowing from Boys


Honestly, if you can't really spare a penny to get yourself something new then just remember, your better half probably has a whole wardrobe just waiting to be explored. Just add an oversized tshirt to your everyday leggings and a pair of sneakers and a cap and you'll be shabby chic. Or, wear your man's button up shirt with the buttons done up the back with a maxi skirt, really the possiblities that borrowing from the men open up are endless.

7. Maxi Dresses

Just like skirts, maxi dresses are the easiest way to lend a bit of cool without compromising on your comfort. There are so many style and patterns of maxi dresses to choose from, you'll find one for any style that you may fancy. You can even pair your everyday maxi with statement accessories for an evening out with the girls. Oh, and big props to you if you combine bold prints with your maxi dress!

8. Comfort and a Confident Smile


Finally, for all the fashion tips the world can give you, there's no substitute for comfort. If you feel something isn't your style, don't try it. The most beautiful people in the world, are the people who love themselves!

If you've followed me on social media, then you know I've recently come back from a trip to God's Own Country, Kerala. This was my first time there and I have to say, I'm smitten. Since a lot of you have asked for a proper post about my trip, I've decided to break it up into parts and give you a lowdown on each place and what to do there. My first stop in Kerala was Munnar, which is basically tea heaven.


I travelled there at the tail end of the monsoons and was expecting the place to be drenched in light showers through the day but I was pleasantly surprised. The weather was actually perfect and there wasn't any rain to trouble us as we explored the picture perfect place. Munnar is a little tea town nestled in the hills and surrounded by absolutely breathtaking views of valleys where tea plantations have been flourishing for hundreds of years. If you're a tea lover, then this is a place that should definitely be on your itinerary. I spent three glorious days surrounded by valleys filled with teas and waking up to the clean mountain air that is sure to make you smile right in bed! Anyway, lets get down to my list of what you should do in Munnar. Of course, walking in the tea plantations is a given, so here's what all you should do other than that!




This one is a complete no brainer. Probably the first thing you'll feel like doing and should do is walk in the endless tea plantations. Its beautiful and the best time to do this is in the mornings! Trust me, you won't regret waking up early.



If you're spending a couple of days in Munnar, then I suggest you take the time to travel to Top Station. While it's a place that is technically in Tamilnadu, its around an hour's drive from Munnar and the journey as well as the destination are both breathtaking. The winding road that goes up offers some gorgeous views of the hills as well as innumerous tea plantations, mostly owned by Tata. When you reach top station, its a bit of a climb uphill but the view more than makes up for it. I suggest you wear comfortable shoes (read NO heels). The place has a few stalls that sell fresh fruits and carrot juice and I suggest you grab some to keep hydrated on your way back.


Now this is something that everyone who visits Kerala probably gets conned into doing once. However, if you pick the right one, I promise it will be an enlightening experience. The safest and best ones are the Government certified ones and these have some brilliant flora and fauna. The guides are usually quite knowledgable and if gardening or fauna in general are one of your interests, these are a must visit. Plus, you can always pick some fresh, organically grown produce for your friends back home.



Munnar is surrounded beautiful waterfalls and rivers and surprisingly these areas haven't been touched by man's pollution. If you can spare the time, I suggest you talk a walk along the Periyar river, just a ahead of Mattupatty Dam (which can be given a miss by the way) and take a picnic along. There are some lovely places where you can lunch with your loved ones while enjoying the cool breeze and breathtaking view.



This is something that I enjoyed the most! While driving back from Top Station, we were lucky enough to spot some elephants who had come to have water at the river and believe me, its breathtaking seeing them in their natural habitat. Keep your eyes peeled when you drive through the forest, you'll probably see a few wild animals doing their everyday thing if you're lucky!




Yes, this is usually on the top of most "what to do in Munnar" lists and there's a reason for that. Possibly one of the most peaceful places I've been to on this trip. This is one must do according to me. The Park is home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr and honestly, one look at it will make you wonder why we've been hunting such a harmless species all these years. The Park is uphill and nestled in the mountains and the climb isn't that terrible. Also, there's a little cafe that serves the most amazing coffee (you can smell it almost halfway up the mountain) which can be enjoyed as you try and spot the little waterfalls and valleys while you're surrounded by clouds.


After you've done all the above, take some time to walk in the market (it isn't very big and is best explored on foot) and sample some local handmade chocolates. Of course, if shopping isn't on your agenda, pop into one of the many local spas and treat yourself to the infamous Ayurvedic Massage. Personally, I think the market looks lovely in the evenings and don't forget to look at the sky as you drink your tea and watch the world go by.

The May My Envy Box comes in an absolutely tropical looking box that instantly makes me want to ditch my boring life for a summer getaway. It's a bright yellow box with the nicest bird (I like looking at birds yes) and tropical flora and fauna on it. Well, that's my favorite part of the box this month! I really think they put in a lot of effort in every month's box and they're almost a collectible now.
Anyway, my tropical musings aside lets talk about the content of this month's My Envy Box.


1. Island Kiss Lip Moisturizer: Rs. 499 for 14 gm
This 100% natural, berry cheeky tint just screams summer. Right from the packaging to the distinct shade, its something any lady on a tropical holiday (dear god, let that be me please) should have in her carry-all. I somehow have a feeling I'm gonna try and use it on my cheeks too, just as a nice natural blush (Yes, I'm a little mental that way).

2. Gulnare Handmade Skincare - Seaflo Face Wash: Rs. 350 for 120 ml
Yes, another face wash. I do think I won't be needing to buy any face washes this year. I heard about Gulnare last month or so when I received it in my Sugarbox and so this full sized product is a welcome addition to my facewash collection. Handmade skincare...hmm....something that's a bit of luxury for a girl like me tbh but then I think the prices are quite reasonable too. What do you think?

3. Votre Botanical Toning Mist: Rs. 400 for 50 ml
Toning mist is something I've never used before. So this product that boasts about maintaining my skin's pH and give it a naturally toned refreshed feeling, is a nice novelty. Also, for anyone like me who simply can't keep track of all the cotton needed to use a regular toner, a spray on mist is a definite plus.

4. Roots and Above - Lemon Essential Oil: Rs. 75 for 10 ml
First of all, this bottle was already half empty/evaporated (?) when I received the box. Secondly, for an oil that's supposed to basically be a miracle cure for pretty much all problems a girl faces, its rather sticky and smelly. Yes, I know those are terrible things to judge a product on, but I can't even get past the strong smell of it to get myself to use it. A miss for me.


5. Kiehls Special Gift Voucher
So this is something I'm going to look forward to! This voucher promises a personalised skin consultation as well as free samples at my nearest Kiehls store. Well, I guess we all know what I'm going to be doing this sunday!
Overall, this month's My Envy Box was average for me. The content somehow didn't live up to the excitement created by the lovely appearance of the box. I am not very sure what I expected, but I somehow expected to instantly feel like I'm a tropical holiday by looking at the content which I did not. So yes, not as happy as last month. Still, a pretty good mix this month. Just wish they'd added maybe one more product.

Did you like this month's My Envy Box? Tell me in the comments below.

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Nope, I won't be talking about the book that has become famous over the last couple of years. I'm talking about literally wearing shades of grey. Somehow, I seem to gravitate towards clothes that have shades of grey as I think they give a welcome break from wearing monochrome and still manage to look good with almost all other colors.

While a pair of grey trousers make workwear a little interesting (I still haven't found my perfect pair, mind you), grey doesn't mean boring! Yes, I know, those grey clouds that seem to hang around these days may make you think otherwise, but it isn't true. All you need to do is, add little pops of color and you're bound to get a fun look.








I got this grey skirt because of its embroidery. Its absolutely lovely and inspite of being jersey, its thick enough not to have awkward VPL moments. Ladies, if you don't like wearing thongs or seamless panties, I suggest doing a quick VPL check before buying any skirt.

In case of street shopping (like me) where you may not be able to try the item out, do the tissue and hand test (yes I just made that name up). All you need to do is, hold a handkerchief (a folded facial tissue also works) in your palm, stick your hand under the skirt, pull it tight over your hand and see if you can spot the lines of the napkin. If you can, its probably too thin and you may want to consider a different skirt.

The top is an old oversized vest that was bought initially as a beach cover up. I added a pop of color on the lips to keep the look fun. Well, turned out, when I shot for the look, the weather Grewas quite grey too, so I ended up taking quick shots indoors. The heels are from New Look and were bought on sale from Asos as an indulgence item and add a little subtle color too.

Tips to Wear Grey without looking boring:

• Grey doesn't have to be boring, add pops of color with your accessories. A bright statement necklace or bag, will make all the difference.
• Don't like accessories?Add a bright shade of lipstick to make your outfit more interesting, without adding any cumbersome accessories to the look.
• You can also add a pair of neon heels to make your outfit pop. 
• Have a grey office dress that just never makes you smile? Add a bright scarf, a pair of red pumps and a beige bag to make it interesting.
• Finally, mix and match your bright tops with grey bottoms, or vice versa to break away from boring black matchers. I assure you, you won't be disappointed! 

Sunday mornings shouldn't induce stress right? Well, waking up to a full page ad in the newspaper saying that one of your favorite online shopping sites goes Mobile certainly is! I mean, wait? What? I can't use the laptop to buy things from there anymore? Are you serious?! No, wait, they're just going to be on the app from now on! Certainly that isn't so bad? No wait, I don't trust my phone to make major payments! Or do I? Well, that's all the questions I thought of the instant I saw that ad. I even let out a small scream prompting mom to tell me, its only a store my dear, (little do you know mom, little do you know).


Well, after a mini fret session, I decided to tackle the bull by its horns and download the app. Few seconds later, HELLO shopping mall on phone! Okay, lets take a quick poll, how many of you spend all your free time on the phone? I'm guessing quite a few! Every time I hop onto the train to travel home, I see everyone scrolling through somebody's feed, or reading somebody's status or texts. Well, I'm guessing, while we may not realise it, this was a rather smart idea by the good folks at Myntra!
Here's what the App says in its very own words via screenshots.



Hello, there's not way I'm spending my coffee break sitting in front of the laptop finding last minute presents for the friend's birthday party. Instead, its much more enjoyable to tap and scroll through the app while I enjoy that latte I've been craving since morning! Yep, it may have taken me sometime, but I definitely see the benefits of the App!



Oh, and that time when you just boarded a train to Goa to realise your good friend's getting engaged in two days? Of course you aren't lugging your laptop around on a holiday! Oh wait, you've got your phone to the rescue! I've had so many of these scenarios run through my head since downloading the app! The sleek and easy to use interface doesn't hurt either! I love the little fashion quotes that pop up while you wait for the pages to load! (Fun and knowledge people! Isn't that what life's supposed to be!)

Overall, my verdict? It's GREAT that Myntra's going to be Mobile now! Its definitely a more intimate experience somehow when you're using the app on the phone. Probably because we have a much more intimate relation with our phones.  Stress? I think it's a way to get rid of stress instead of adding it! A quick little app that solves your shopping on the go needs? Well, that's not stressful at all! Its rather exciting!

Get the App Today! Try it out! And tell me how you like it! 

Are you from Mumbai? Yes? Well then I'm sure you've been shocked, surprised, overjoyed by the random weather change that we've seen over the weekend. Personally, I love the rains as long as I'm home. Step outside, and then the icky, mucky reality strikes and you spend more time trying not to look like a mud covered drenched animal than enjoying the showers.

Well, along with the lovely cool weather comes the dilemma of dressing for the unpredictable weather. I've been coming home late these days and usually I'm extremely cold, no matter how many layers I'm wearing (usually not more than two as the afternoons become rather hot and sweaty). Add the rains to that and what you've got is a big dressing problem. Nope, I'm not one of those bloggers who believe in freezing to death for the sake of fashion. No thank you.






Today's outfit is my compromise. I think every girl (and boy) should invest in a pair of fitted quick drying pants. This jumper is a favourite of mine. I got it as a birthday present and I've been wearing it to lots of different places. I even matched my lips with the quote on it to make it more interesting! The trousers, you've seen a number of times on the blog. All in all, a quick, easy way to look good and not take eons to dry if you do get drenched. As for the pictures, you know how it goes, I wanted to put this as a post today, my friend volunteered to make good use of his phone camera. I got a post. Everybody wins!

PS: Thanks for being a pain in my butt and taking these pictures for me! You know who you are!