Chiconomical

Hiya lovely people. Have you been completely frustrated with the crazy weather this morning? I have! Mumbai usually doesn't have blinding sunshine one second and then crazy downpour the next. Now I know you think that this weather is something that's going to mess up your long weekend plans, but I've got the perfect ways to look fabulous by bringing you three ways to wear your gum boots. I know, you probably don't think these are versatile enough to be worn to everything that you could possibly have lined up on the weekend, but read on and maybe I'll change your mind.

1. Summer Hustler



2. Party Babe




3. Desi Boho Girl

I don't usually read non-fiction. It's never been my cup of tea and I'm a believer of the 'there's enough reality in real life to be dealing with the same in my free time'. Give me a dragon or a good magical story any day. Obviously, its quite surprising then, that I even picked up this book to read in the first place. I blame it on being bored and stuck with a bookshelf that had barely anything that I hadn't already read. I picked up the book around 24 hours ago, with the thought that I'd read some and then simply move on (I was waiting for a friend to finish her phone conversation you see). Imagine my surprise right now when I've been through the book and find myself reviewing it for the world to see.

An Unsuitable Boy is a book you'll read in Karan Johar's voice. If you've seen him on any of the talkshows or reality shows (and I'd consider it a rather grand achievement if you haven't seen he seems to be everywhere) then you know that he has this personality that is actually just him. I've always felt that it isn't contrived like almost everyone else out there (yes, I think every single star has at one point of time sat down and listed what their brand adjectives should be and then worked their butt off to reach it!). This is why I liked reading the book and this is why I think An Unsuitable Boy works. It's not trying to be intellectual, its not trying to be a gossipy bestseller, its simply a person talking about their seemingly extraordinary life.

Karan Johar, the quintessential 'townie', that's what all of us ordinary suburban mortals like to call people who live 'townside' or in 'SoBo'. Townies are people who have it made, their life is what you see in movies, their life is what people think lives are like in Mumbai. The book starts with this exact same vibe. I think where you grow up is something that gets ingrained in you. While I know a lot of people look at him as this spoilt rich brat, I don't think that's the case and this belief that I had about him (no, I do not know him but we all have opinions about people right?) gets reinforced in this book. I actually love the vulnerability that comes through in his younger years while still being set against the backdrop of a plethora of well-known people. Hey, I've even met one of them, Natasha (who is an absolute delight btw) and I couldn't help but recall the one time I saw her and wished I could afford to make her my fulltime hair stylist simply because she has such a positive energy! (nope, still not have that much money in the bank!)

Yes, the address and the connections definitely help when it comes to finding yourself. I would love to take a couple of months off to go find myself but then that's not a luxury most of us can afford. But then that's ok too. You don't need to actually go away to find yourself. You need to communicate and have that discussion with your inner self to be able to find joy. Yes, coming back to the book, this is something I think comes through in the book. There's a whole chapter on Bollywood and how its evolved and grown into a place where communication is a little lost.

One of the most talked about part of the book was the Love and Sex chapter. Well, what's my take on it? I think it takes a lot of courage to talk about your personal life on a public platform. There's a part that talks about how you need to build a connection with the masses and I think this book in general tries to do that. Especially when he talks about his personal life, he seems to have this honesty about what he's gone through but still an ability to look at himself and be comfortable in his own skin.

So was there something I didn't like in the book? First, there's a 'became' that should be a 'because' on pg. 180. I really get frustrated when this happens, especially in print media. Second, sometimes I think that the book goes into a sort of self-adulation zone. Yes, I'm a firm believer in loving yourself but since I don't know him personally (hey, this could be his personality in real life too), I find it a bit pompous. However, this still doesn't take away from this feeling of reliability in the broader scheme of things and that's exactly why I'm here writing this piece.

Should you go buy it? If you like a book that doesn't try to take itself too seriously then yes. If you like your autobiographies to be these aspirational guide books, then no. This isn't for you. If you're a movie buff or a Shah Rukh Khan buff, then this is for you. If you're just like me and want to read something that isn't pompous (no matter how pompous people call the writer) then go ahead, take a peek into the mind of one of the most celebrated movie makers in our country!

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!

We're around a week away from Holi and its almost time to welcome the most colorful time of the year. Holi is always celebrated with joy and while the day is a riot of colors, I often hear people complaining about how it messes with their hair and skin. Since I've been saving my hair from holi damage for several years now, I figured I'd share my tips on pre-holi care.

Start Early! 

First off, make sure your hair is clean before you oil it. Yes, I know everyone tells you that you should oil your hair but first off, its extremely important to get rid of any dandruff or dirt that may already be present. Use a gentle shampoo, (I've seen tressemme or Nature's co works well) and make sure to get rid of any split end before holi.

Oil, Oil, Oil!

ANY girl who's worth her holi colors will tell you, oil is the key to saving your hair. If there's only time to do one thing before you go out to play, then its got to be oiling. Any hair oil works well, you could go for a scented one that's sure to keep you calm.

Braid it like a pro!

Another thing that girls often forget is that oiling isn't enough. If you've got hair that's fairly long, then its important to ensure its tied neatly. You could braid it in any number of stylish ways so as to keep it away from your face and make sure that its easy manage

Scarves are Saviours!

Finally, my most important tip is the most sensible one. If you can add a scarf or a bandana to keep your hair from directly getting exposed to the colors, there's nothing like it. I personally think that a scarf worn as a headband and a pair of reflectors is the coolest look for any Holi. You've got style and sense all rolled into one, and that's the best of both worlds right?

What are some of the things you've done to protect your hair this Holi? Go on, follow these haircare tips to enjoy a great holi. I'll be back next week with tips on Post Holi Haircare and how to deal with the damage, if any!

Let's face it, we've all been there. No matter how much we try to be cool and chic at the office, something always gets in the way and we end up dressing in drab boring clothes. Maybe your alarm didn't go off on time, maybe you planned your perfect Monday outfit but spilled coffee on it (yes, we've all done it sometime), maybe you didn't really plan and simply didn't have time. Don't worry, I've got you covered! Like last time, when we spoke about my first tip to anyone who wants to add some chic interest to their wardrobe lets get onto today's tip

Today's Boring to Interesting Tip: Attention to Details! (See last week's tip here)





You don't have to invest a lot in making things interesting. Sometimes, just a simple hint of lace or frill can make a boring old outfit go from drab to fab. Today's look features one of my all time favorite skirts that has been in my office dressing arsenal for around two years now. The color is everyday but the little lace trim at the bottom makes it superb for work. I have always gotten a compliment when I wear it. The lace balances out the slight power shoulder thing that's going on at the top and keeps you from looking too overbearing. Seriously, whenever you go shopping for workwear, pay attention to details!

For instance, when looking for a white shirt, my office dressing tip is to find one with detailing. This is exactly what makes you stand out in the sea of other white shirts. If looking for skirts, look for those with maybe an interesting back. Can't find the perfect workwear skirt? Not to worry! The easiest way to make a simple black skirt interesting is some DIY. Get a bit of trimming in any style you like (it can be lace, crochet, beads, anything) and add it to your skirt. Maybe at the hemline like mine or at the sides at the seams? The possibilities are endless. Just make sure to keep the color palette muted since you don't want to look like a shiny disco ball when you step out to work (unless you work at a club, and in that case, Bring on the Sequins!!!). Really, if you pay attention to details when you shop, then even that 'last minute rushing to catch the bus while eating breakfast outfit' for work will end up looking interesting!

Hope this has given you some insight into what to look for the next time you shop for workwear. I personally think that you can rock trends to work without looking frumpy and over the top. Come back next week for some more tips for making working interesting!

Working in an office in India usually means seeing a uniform of shirts, trousers, kurtis and sometimes ill-fitting blazers. If you've got a particularly important meeting or engagement,or maybe you're just feeling adventurous you'll wear a formal dress or skirt. Usually, the endless parade of pinstripes, black, blue and whites makes you just another person in the office crowd. This is exactly why I thought of starting a workwear series where I'll be sharing tips on how to make everyday office outfits interesting and not boring and part of the usual fare.

Today's Boring to Interesting Tip:Take Risks!





Today's outfit has my most favorite tip for workwear. I usually see girls shying away from prints when it comes to choosing office wear. Don't! There are a number of office appropriate prints that you can wear without looking like you're going on a casual date. In this outfit, I paired a simple black top with printed trousers to add an element of interest to what would have otherwise been a regular boring black and white outfit. You can even pair a printed blouse with a suit to add a bit of your own personality to a regular outfit.

So what are some other office appropriate prints? Well, virtually any print that is not loud and big works for office. Workwear is all about muted individualism in my book and so your best bet is to look for small, repetitive prints that aren't in your face but still add a bit more quirk to a regular outfit.

With Valentines day just one day away, obviously I decided to do something pink. Wearing something that says Valentine's without looking like a red and pink mass or cotton candy is hard, especially when Valentines falls on a working day and you need to look polished. That's exactly what this look is about.





I love wearing all white with hints of color. I paired my pink blazer with its adorable heart printed lining with my white jumpsuit (yes, the very same one you saw in the last post) and my heels and we get a simple look that's season of love appropriate, but still professional. I think its smart to look for interesting lining when buying blazer simply because that gives you an added element of surprise, especially in a tropical country where you'll probably end up rolling your sleeves up by the end of the day. If you're working on Valentines day (and you probably are if you're anything like me) then go out, dress up in a muted outfit that's got some love and style!