DLF Promenade by Cross Section Interactive Private Limited

Promenade I ss u e - 1

2012

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Kalki Koechlin

On life in Hindi cinema and her personal style

n eA n

ry I s s

ersa v i completes 3 years of endless fashion statements

Trending Structured silhouettes Clash of the metals Tartan checks Textured fabrics Jewel watches

ue Th

The Editor’s Letter

e have completed three years as a fashion and lifestyle destination. The three-years long journey has been eventful. We have experimented and explored ways by which we can offer our customers an experience that is unparalleled. The south Delhi customer is both discerning and demanding because of their exposure to the global market and international fashion trends. Though hard to please, they have always kept us on our feet and I am happy to say that DLF Promenade has managed to meet their expectations. Our great tenant mix, with some of the biggest brands, have helped us strike a chord with our discerning customers. We believe that God lies in the details and our attempt has been to take care of even the tiniest details. Often, our marketing initiatives, like the mall magazine and events like Fashion Focus, Fashion Hitlist and The Christmas Cheers, where we gave away a Harley Davidson, have been the first in the market. We, in some sense, pioneered the trend of mall magazines. When we first brought this magazine to you, it was an experiment in reaching out to our consumers. We had much to say, and we felt that a magazine is an ideal vehicle for bringing to you our thoughts and showcasing the mall. It was also a method by which we measured the pulse of this premium fashion destination, DLF Promenade, and of Delhi, the fashion capital of India. Now that everyone around us is clambering on to the magazine bandwagon, we have decided to raise the bar. So, we have redesigned and restructured the DLF Promenade magazine, and what you hold in your hands is a glitzy fashion and lifestyle magazine that brings to you the trends in the

The Personal Shopper

Nature-inspired

By Mahima Shukla

From leopards to giraffes, owls and peacocks, fashion is riding high on an urban safari Aldo’s Kovalcin

Not sure whether those lovely highwaisted pants will look good on you? Don’t know whether pretty pink, which you see all around you, is really your colour? Personal shoppers are at hand to help with their expert advice and their views on fashion

Zara

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DLF Promenade’s beautiful curved stone façade stands out against the Vasant Kunj landscape. The flawless blend of entertainment, shopping and lifestyle makes it a trendy destination for people in Delhi

he imposing structure of DLF Promenade, with its front curved façade and the semi-circle dome is visible from a rather long distance as you drive past Vasant Kunj, a fact that makes this premier shopping destination an architectural landmark in a city that’s ever-evolving. No wonder then that DLF Promenade won the RK Kabel-Society Interiors Building Design Award 2011 for the Best Retail Mall Building Design. Designed by eminent architect Mohit Gujral, the magnificent mall sprawls over a total built-up area of 4.5 lakh square feet, on the ground, upper and first levels. While the ground and first levels are for stores and restaurants, the second level is dedicated to entertainment and holds DT Cinemas, the multiplex that offers excellent movie watching experience. “There were certain set urban control rules we had to follow while designing the mall,” says Gujral. “Within those parameters, we interpreted the mall in our own way. The multiplex and the food court are the core anchors.” The mall, a classic stone structure, is clad in sand-coloured raw silk granite. “The material palette inside the mall is a combination of marble and granite,” he adds. The extensive food court is designed as an entry point to the multiplex, since helps it create foot falls for the multiplexes. Light streams into this area through a giant skylight, and the natural environment with palm trees makes it an ideal space for spending the day. Catch a movie, lounge in one of its cafes and then head for a meal. The dramatic DLF Promenade mall structure is offset by The Hub, the incredibly clever outdoor space that hosts restaurants and a corner that is used by live bands for performances, or for cricket matches and other events. “It has space for large projector televisions, which can completely transform the space when an event, a match or a concert is on,” says the architect. Gujral and his team of architects and designers have looked into even the most minute details that makes spending time at the mall such a pleasurable experience — from broad signage that makes it easy for people to access spaces, to a beautiful lobby at not just the entrance level but even the basement level, where you park your car, to façade control where the stores are concerned. “While internally, the stores are free to design their spaces according to their plans, there is a certain uniformity to the façade and the way the stores look from the outside,” says Gujral. DLF Promenade offers an array of unique experiences that seamlessly unify shopping, entertainment and eating out.

It’s a wild

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The Curve Story

Karigari

Stylist

People

By Saisha Suri

Your very own

Tell us something about your upcoming film Shanghai. Shanghai is a political thriller, directed by Dibakar Banerjee. I am playing the role of Shalini, who gets involved in a political mess. There is a quirkiness that we associate with the kind of films Dibakar Banerjee has made. Does Shanghai have a similar flavour? The story is very different from his earlier films and depicts modernday India and its problems, such as corruption. Dibakar’s quirks come across through his wit and humour that the film carries and the style of shooting, which is quite raw. Anurag Kashyap directed your first film, Dev.D. Later, you also worked together in That Girl In Yellow Boots. From working with him, to being his life partner, what is it like? He comes across as a very intense person through his films. It gets very intense at time. When we shot for That Girl In Yellow Boots, our life was on hold. We used to hardly talk to avoid fighting. You know,

he popularity of the animal print has inspired everything animal-shaped. From brooches to neckpieces, coin purses to evening bags, the animal inspiration has had an interesting effect on fashion. Turning to the wild helps give a piece of accessory an edgy inspiration. Leopards, pandas, wolves and giraffes prowled the catwalks around the world, adding a light-hearted playfulness to the season. Tigers lurked on knits, while naughty monkeys cavorted across loose tops and dresses. Wearing animal prints or accessories with animal motifs, however, takes a bit of work. There are ways to transform this very tricky trend into easy chic and not look like you are covered head-to-toe in a critter. When it comes to clothes, animal motifs never seem to fall completely out of favour, but they’re riding a new wave of popularity. Be it exotic animal prints such as leopard or zebra, bird motifs and more, there are several options. For chic designs for daywear, head to Marks & Spencer which has a wide range of trousers and tops. If you don’t want to go all out on this trend, take a look at Promod, bebe and Zara, which offer classic and old school designs like sparrows, owls and monkey-motif cardigans, which are perfect for spring. For a touch of the wild in your bedroom, the lingerie at La Senza will definitely catch your eye. They also have cutesy PJs and slippers for girls who like quirky fashion. If your heart doesn’t beat for such bold clothes, try accessorising, the easiest way to stay in tune with fashion’s latest love. If you want to go traditional then Karigari, a jewellery brand, is a great option with some dazzling peacock-inspired designs. For young girls, Claire’s stocks some amazing accessories. Animal print merchandise at Bijoux Terner is worth a look too. Bugs and reptiles have it real good as they’ve opened avenues of inspiration in accessories that offer an easy-to-wear alternative to this trend. From mesmerising colour palettes to intricate form and structure, snake bracelets with their elaborate designs and craftsmanship are gracing the hands of most fashionable people around. Many Bollywood divas in India have been spotted wearing animal-inspired accessories.

Swarovski’s Philippa brooch

Dev.D

For years, we have been telling the same stories, if we have to make them different, we have to be creative. We have to find new ways of telling old stories

it’s different when you work with someone and get back home with that same guy. But we are lucky to have a good balance in our lives. Both of us have our own work and we manage it quite well.

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Design

How do you balance your professional and personal life with him? Well, it’s quite easy. Most of the time we are not together and are busy doing separate films. And it is the distance that brings you even closer because you are longing to meet. When you get back you are all loveydovey and happy. When we meet, we don’t bother each other with work because it’s our time and it’s more personal. We are a normal couple. We can’t help but ask you, what do you think of Delhi as a city? I love Delhi and I keep going there. I have shot there for Dev.D and just love the food — mutton biryani, golgappas, momos — there is so much, that I go crazy. And there is a lot of space in Delhi, which seems like a luxury in Mumbai. It’s not claustrophobic. I envy my friends who have big homes there.

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We have redesigned and restructured the DLF Promenade magazine, and what you hold in your hands is a glitzy fashion and lifestyle magazine

season right now, along with interviews with Bollywood stars, travel trends, cuisine fads and lifestyle advise. The issue is replete with fashion advice, details on the best offerings in the mall, besides international style trends and how to adapt them. Our regulars know DLF Promenade as the premium fashion shopping destination in Delhi. The Promenade magazine brings on its pages the best that the mall has to offer, and much more. Our cover girl, the beautiful Kalki Koechlin, tells us about life in Hindi cinema and her love for understated style. The spunky Priyanka Chopra tells us how she keeps her skin glowing and reveals her fashion secrets. Our trending and feature stories look at the biggest fashion trends this season. And our travel features take you to exotic destinations and boutique hotels. As you flip through the pages of the magazine, we hope that it will become a tool for you to adapt new trends, travel to new destinations and find a reflection of a lifestyle that is as interesting as it is evolving.

Pushpa Bector Sr. Vice President & Mall Head, DLF Promenade

Issue-1

2012

Trending 08

34 Jewel Watches

The Talking Points

38 Personal Style

Mall Update

40 The Bar Essentials

Structured Silhouettes

44 Getaways

Bling with a twist

48 Books

Checks & houndstooth

50 Music

Textures

52 Movies

The Bikerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Gear

Hotlist

Features 68

The Personal Shopper

Nature-inspired

Facial

People

Get a lowdown on the latest in fashion from shopping experts

Animal prints and accessories rule the fashion world

Soothe your winter-ravaged face with exotic therapies

Kalki Koechlin gets candid about life, marriage and fashion

Attire

Give a smart edge to your work-wear suit

At the Table

Modern-day take on Japanese food makes it a worldwide hit

Travel

Leicester Square is the hub for theatre and entertainment

MEDIASCOPE PUBLICITAS EDITORIAL Editor-in-Chief — Deepali Nandwani Editor — Sujata Dugar Client Service Manager — Reshma Malvankar Art Creative Director — Faruqui Mohd Jaan Art Director — Sanjay Rane Senior Designer —Shamkant More Image Editor — Atul Jangam Production Manager — Elidio Fernandes Marketing Manager Ritcha Verma

Team DLF Promenade

ADVERTISING SALES Mumbai (022-22850188 / 61377200) Lamont Dias, Mallika Jamsandekar Delhi (011-23730873/74) Asha Augustine, Nikhil Mehrotra Ahmedabad (09898002522) — Madan Menon

Skincare

Experts guide you to pick up the right shade for your skin tone

Bangalore (080-25592714/82514) — Yogeesha A Chennai (09841091288) — J V Naveen Jaipur (09828150706) — Peeush Gupta Kerala (0484-2354867/2381417) — Hari M Das Kolkata (09831131395) — Subrata Mazumder Lucknow (0522-2780560/754) — P P S Marwa Pune (09850086865) — Shailesh Amonkar Secunderabad (8978866599) — Sheetal Petkar ADMINISTRATION DEPARTMENT Manager Mktg. Services — Salim B Sr. Manager - Accounts & Admin. — Girish Sharma Accounts Executive — Ashwin Makwana Credit Controller — Girish Joshi Delhi Asst. Manager - Accounts & Administration Raj Bhushan Singh CORPORATE CEO & Managing Director — Marzban Patel Executive Director — Anita Patel CFO — Manish Mehta COO — Indu Joshi

“This Magazine is published by DLF Promenade and produced by Mediascope Publicitas (India) Pvt. LTD. (“MSP”) on behalf of and under agreement with DLF Promenade. Opinions expressed herein are of the Authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of DLF Promenade or of MSP. Editorial, reproduction of articles and advertising enquiries should be addressed to Mediascope Publicitas (India) Private Ltd, 51 Doli Chamber, Arthur Bunder Road, Colaba, Mumbai 400 005, India. • Email: indu.joshi@publicitas.com Material in this publication may not be reproduced, whether in part or in whole, without the consent of the publisher. DLF Promenade or MSP do not assume any responsibility or endorse any claim made by the advertiser herein”. Printed at ThomsonPress, Faridabad.

Trending

Hotlist

Design your

itinerary The hottest concerts to attend and destinations to visit over the next three months

The Elephant Festival Assam — Feb 11-17 The festivities and the events involving the participation of the elephants and their mahouts occur in the Kaziranga National Park in Assam. Beautifully decorated elephants take part in parades, races, football matches and more. The idea, says the forest department which organises the festival, is to reduce man-elephant conflict.

Goa Carnival

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Remember Shakti - A Fusion Concert

Thar Festival Barmer — Mar 15 The Thar Festival is a three-day cultural extravaganza celebrated to showcase the best of the desert. Traditionally held in the golden city of Jaisalmer, the festival also sees the major participation of the ship of the desert – the camel. So, you can enjoy camel dances, camel polo, races, acrobatics and more.

Hyderabad — Feb 10 Remember Shakti is one of the first combination of musicians who tried to experiment with sounds that cross all musical boundaries. The band, which includes English guitarist John McLaughlin, tabla maestro Zakir Husain, mandolin master U Srinivas, musiciansinger Shankar Mahadevan, and V Selvaganesh on the kanjira, ghatam and mridangam, combines Indian music with jazz notes.

Goa — Feb 18-21 This is the time when Goa celebrates its annual carnival with zest and zeal — three days and nights of revelry, feasting, drinking, dancing, merrymaking, vibrant floats and more. It is not only music and dance that makes the evenings spectacular but some short plays are also composed and enacted.

Mahakala Dance Sikkim — Feb 16-29 February is one of the best times to visit Sikkim not just because of the winter chill that continues right up till March, but also because of the four-armed Mahakala Dance. It is performed by monastic masked dancers in the ceremonial courtyard in front of the ancient Rumtek Monastery.

New Delhi World Book Fair New Delhi — Feb 25-Mar 04 The capital’s Pragati Maidan, the venue for India’s oldest book fair, will witness Japan holding centrestage with the Japan Foundation bringing a wide variety of Manga comics this year. Organised by the National Book Trust India, this year will also focus on books on Indian cinema.

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Trending

Mall Update

Claire’s

The 35-year-old Florida-based brand is a leading name for trendy accessories and jewellery, The Claire’s collection is an eclectic range of jewellery for kids, teens and young women across the world. The brand’s vast collection includes costume jewellery, sterling silver and 14-carat gold earrings, hypoallergenic earrings, hair accessories, bags, wallets, belts, socks, tights, legwarmers, sunglasses, and hats.

MORE BRANDS on the block DLF Promenade welcomed some of the best names in fashion this season. It’s our pleasure to introduce you to them

Steve Madden

Bloom

Steve Madden is known for his take on the latest trends, adding quirks and individuality to shoes that shoppers idolise. Starting as a shoe salesman, Steve Madden founded his brand in 1990. His first design, of which he made 500 pairs, was a Western clog called the Marilyn; he sold it from door to door out of the boot of his car. The brand now has expanded its name to housing clothing, handbags and accessories. His breakout hit was the Mary Lou, a patent-leather Mary Jane style shoe, with a big bump toe. His celebrity customers include Carmen Electra, Sarah Michelle Gellar, Neve Campbell, Alyssa Milano and Mary J. Blige.

Fun, fresh and flirty, Bloom is the latest fashion and lifestyle destination at DLF Promenade. The new multi-brand store will wow you with its extensive and exclusive collection of traffic-stopping dresses, sassy tops and tees, designer leggings, trendy accessories and contemporary home decor creations. One stop at this unique store with over 40 leading brands from USA, Italy and India can turn you into the belle of the ball.

bebe

“To be or not to be” has never been more fashionable than in the store inspired by the phrase. Established in the early 1970s, bebe walks the fine line between stylish and sensual. The store also caters to those with an active lifestyle via sportswear, tops, sweaters and outerwear. Weekend wear, work-out attire and accessories such as bags and shoes are there for the taking too.

The concept fashion store, Evolv, from the group that’s developed lifestyle concepts like award-winning boutique hotel, Park Pod and high-end luxury store, Evoluzione, aims to make Indian designerwear, once afforded only by the affluent, available to dynamic young Indian customers. The store has a fresh, vibrant vibe to it, to appeal to its young customers. From much-feted designers like Manish Arora, Rohit Gandhi & Rahul Khanna, Sanchita Ajjampur, Gaurav Gupta, Abraham & Thakore, Not So Serious by Pallavi Mohan, Ajit 5x, Annaika by Kanika Saluja, Divyam Mehta, Malini Ramani, AM:PM by Ankur and Priyanka Modi, House of Three by Sounak Sen Barat, who have collaborated with the store, to international brands like Melissa Shoes, Arugam Bay, Play Clan, Nixon and Skull Kandy, you can buy them at Evolv. Not to mention those beautiful Love Travel Guides by Fiona Caulfield.

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Evolv

Trending

Mall Update Bijoux Terner

Optique

Since 1987, Optique has been providing eyewear and hearing aid solutions in a premium, multi-brand product range, coupled with immaculate service. Dr Ajeet Bhardwaj, an optometrist who graduated from AIIMS in 1978, has ensured that his international experience of seven years is utilised in India. As the current President of the National Association of India Optometrists and hosts of other organisations, Dr Bhardwaj ensures that his products and care are among the best.

Karigari

Karigari is the concept theme art jewellery brand that puts together everything a contemporary Indian fashionista would want. Whether it is Swarovski, metal, Rajwada or Kashmiri jewellery, or an asymmetrical collection, their semi-precious theme jewellery makes sure you stand out. It caters to all tastes while specialising in signature earrings that let you add an individual touch to accessories.

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From Miami to New Delhi, the brand founded in 1974 brings generations of expertise. Its founder, Terner, also known as Moni, left his native Cuba in 1960 after the government seized control of his familyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s business. In Cuba, he had been the president of the National Association for Handbag Manufacturers. Today, two of his handbags are on permanent display at the Smithsonian National Air and the Space Museum in Washington, DC. Bijoux Terner started as a jewellery mart and houses tons of accessories. Moni and his daughter, Rosa, have turned the brand into a hothouse of design and innovation with the USP of Luxury @ 800 which makes all things possible at a `800.

Trending

Mall Update

Trendy Divva

Banking on the Indian strength that lies in producing garments in rich textiles and embellishments, Trendy Divva works modern Asian influences and heritage techniques in fabrics such as silk, crepe, chiffon, polyester, print, jacquard, cotton, taffeta, dupion, lurex, soft denims and baby corduroy. Whether it is hand or machine-embroidered, beaded evening or cocktail wear, prom dresses or bridal couture, swim cover-ups or accessories such as capes, shrugs, boleros, scarves, stoles, neck ties, sarongs, and wraps, you will find everything under one roof.

Seacret

Make My Skins

Here is a toy brand that puts fun in fundamentals. Smart Kids Toys ensure that no play is meaningless. Toys are assigned FUNdamentals ratings based upon development categories that include independent play, cooperative play, developing motor skills, visual learning, creative play, language development, logical thought and learning through music. Bestsellers include creatively titled games such as Sticky Mosaics Enchanted Horses Jewellery Box, Pebble Art – Butterfly, Morphibian Land Shark RC, Domino Express Racing, Djeco Collages for Little Ones and a Blast Pad.

Park Avenue

Balloons

When Rashmi Paliwal and Sterre Sharma put together their skill of fabric painting technologies and visual art, the result was Balloons. The friends saw the gap in the ready-made garments space for children in New Delhi, and stepped in to fill it in. The home-grown Indian brand scored in bringing to trendy moms, children’s clothes that matched their styles. The store offers exciting international designs, with hand or machine embroidery on pure cotton fabrics for children between the ages of zero and 12 years.

India’s well-dressed gentlemen have been looking to Park Avenue since 1986 for stylish and innovative wardrobe solutions. As India’s premium lifestyle brand, its designs embody the latest in international fabric, styling, colour and fashion trends. Formal clothings for work or high-powered corporate meetings, social gatherings and occasions remain their strength. It is not for nothing that the brand was voted the ‘Most Admired Men’s Formalwear Brand’ in 2011.

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Smart Kids Toys

Dead Sea skincare products were once restricted to countries nearby. But Robert Meirovich, who started the brand in 2002, has millions of women and men thanking him for bringing to them the benefits of Dead Sea’s world-famous powers of rejuvenation. The Seacret Spa is a full-service spa featuring Seacret Spa products, which allows consumers to try products first-hand and purchase products to bring the Spa home. It is one of the secrets of the spa brand that it lets the customer try and then buy.

In this age of customisation, the only way your electronic devices – cell phones, laptops, handheld game devices, gaming consoles, mp3 players and cameras – belong to you is by personalising the skin. Make My Skins stepped into this niche to offer customised designer skins. Customers can also choose to buy hard/soft cases with a choice of their skin on the case itself. Designs in skins made of super fine self-adhesive vinyl include photos, graphics and textures.

Trending

Mall Update

Fragrancia

P E R F U M E

Fragrancia

Fragrancia calls itself a high-end brand satellite, looking to satisfy high expectations for international cosmetic and perfume brands. Its kiosks do justice to the top-class brands on offer and makes them accessible to the consumer. Brands such as Hugo Boss, Dunhill, DKNY, EstĂŠe Lauder, Baldessarini, Police Caribbean, Nike, Lâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;OrĂŠal and Maybelline jostle for fragrant attention.

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Nine

Nine is a label known for its exquisite and impeccable couture, designed exclusively for modern men of refined taste and temperament. Bespoke is luxury, and the store scrupulously designs and precisely tailors classic and impressive menswear, using premium quality natural fabrics. It is as per the diverse aesthetic and stylish requirements of its discerning customers.

By Aakanksha Agarwal

Elegant arches, sharp angles and imperial stature are the hallmarks of an architectural look, translated into fashion via dramatic cuts, tailored jackets and box bags

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ashion, once inspired by art, has now taken architecture as its muse. With dramatic pleats, origami folds and power sleeves, fashion is looking at structures for inspiration. Here are some tips on how to work the structured trend, because by the looks of it, these are the shapes of the things to come.

• Power shoulders, lapels and dramatic cuts can give you styles that highlight your figure. For example, if you have a big bust, wear a dramatic quilted skirt to shift the focus. For a night out, head over to Calvin Klein, bebe or FCUK for a structured cocktail dress. • Don’t shy away from colour. Neutrals will turn this into a very business-like look. Bright shades such as berry, tangerine, burgundy and fuchsia will keep it electrifying. Bright colours at s.Oliver, Calvin Klein, Zara and Mango ensure that you stand out. • Red lips will add a swagger and complete the sophisticated-lady-about-town feel and look you may be wanting to achieve. • Trade in your hobo or sling for the coveted box bag. A structured handbag, either square or rectangular can dress up or down for the occasion. Look no further than United Colors of Benetton for handbags in this genre. You may find your heart’s desire at Tommy Hilfiger in colour blocking. For occasional wear, Swarovski has brilliant clutches that can be the focal point of your look. • The pantsuit is done-to-death in this genre. To break the mould, wear the short-suit, which comprises a matching jacket with a pair of well-tailored shorts. Check out Giovanni for some interesting options. bebe

Structured Silhouettes

Architecouture

Trending

Get the look We asked the seasoned designer, Rina Dhaka, two young experimental designers and a young stylist on how to wear structured garments.

Rina Dhaka, Designer

“A good structured dress or jacket can take off five kilos off your frame. Go for severe constructs like structured jackets in jacquards and sheath dresses. Slim-fit pants, cigarette trousers and skinny jeans are in vogue.”

Manju Agarwal, Designer Satya Paul

“Use structure to accentuate your best assets and hide figure flaws. One of your best fashion investments can be a structured jacket. It hides the dreaded belly bulge, nips in to create the impression of a tiny waist and is very wardrobe versatile. Pair it with a short cocktail dress, wear it buttoned up with a demure skirt, or if you feel particularly daring, wear it with a sari; it will always make for an impactful look.”

s.Oliver

Anuja Mukim, Designer

“Dress up like you mean business. While we always find great casual and party looks, it is a pain deciding what to wear to work. Structured fashion is, perhaps, the biggest saviour in the boardroom. It adds just the right amount of drama to spruce up office-wear. Wear power shoulders with élan, they also add an illusion of height. A well-fitted pencil skirt does wonders for your legs, without revealing much skin. A box bag is roomy, spacious and adds a power punch to regular work-wear. Also skip the uncomfortable stilettos and go for cage heels for a comfortable yet stylish look.”

French Connection

s.Oliver

Surbhi Gupta, Fashion stylist

French Connection

French Connection s.Oliver

“Keep it smart, not frumpy. Architecture inspired fashion is in vogue again and to know how to wear this trend well, we should look at its roots. Elegant arches, tall majestic buildings, sharp acute angles and imperial stature are what we associate architecture with. This should translate in our dressing, too. Structured clothes should be very welltailored and always crisply ironed. There is no room for any sloppiness. Accessories that complement this look well are clean, minimalist pieces; metallic jewellery can add an ultramodern tinge to it.” French Connection

Trending

Bling with a twist

By Aakanksha Agarwal

Does gold and silver ever meet? If you are experimental, they do

Clash of the

Metals

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ll that glitters is not just gold, it’s good ol’ Here is how you can create a double dose of dazzle: silver as well. Gold is incredibly tasteful Graduate into it and very sophisticated while silver is Two-toned dresses with silver gradating into gold or a dull gold outfit young, chic and funky. Marry the two with a smattering of silver sequins can make for a very lively and you have an unusual combination. look. Silver and gold sailor stripes softly blending into However, for those of us brought up on the traditional style one another also looks über stylish. Satya Paul and mantra of never mixing the two, the big question remains: Zara are your best bets, the former for dressier can they be worn together? Or, is it a mistake to pair gold cocktail occasions and the latter for exciting clubradiance with silver sparkle? hopping nights. Designers and style divas translating catwalk trends on to the red carpet have answered this question for us. Mix your baubles A close style watch shows that the dread of blending the Steve Madden Mixing gold and silver accessories is the easiest way to two metals is now just reduced to a fashion granny’s myth that wear this trend. You look superstar chic without trying can be dispelled. Mixed metallic accents glint right through the shows too hard. Following age-old style dictums is passé; now it is in global fashion capitals. Celebrities sport the upmarket look with a more fun to break the rules. rare flamboyance. Layer your gold and silver necklaces to create an eclectic Hollywood celebrity Jennifer Morrison took to the red combination. Stack up bangles by randomly alternating carpet at the Fashion Awards wearing a gold and silver gold and silver and add some tribal-inspired pieces to the metallic cocktail dress. Kate Middleton, the Duchess mix to look like a true style globetrotter. You can even of Cambridge, carried a silver and gold clutch to wear chic accessories that use both metals together in complement her lavender gown at Bafta’s black tie one piece. dinner in Los Angeles. Queen Latifah’s white strapless Punk has some really interesting options in mixed crepe gown with chiffon-draped gathering at the front metal accessories that won’t put a big dent in your was accented with a gold and silver crystal-striped wallet. And, if you’re willing to spend big bucks, then waistband at the People’s Choice Awards. Swarovski is the place to be. However, you don’t have to have an A-list wage to create this look, since it is one of the cheapest Treasure trove of textures and the easiest to recreate. One statement metallic The trick to not looking like a Christmas tree is to choose piece combined with a simple one can transform an your textures well. Pair a loose matt gold blouse with a entire outfit. s.Oliver

Satya Paul

short tight silver sequinned skirt. Wear a shimmery silver dress with stockings that have a slight golden sheen. Enliven a dull gold dress with a dramatic broad silver belt. Brands like Mango, Promod and Zara have great metallic separates such as tunics, vests, waistcoats and even scarves, which you can blend and layer to create an exotic look.

Look into the future

This trend definitely has a space-age vibe to it. Adding a futuristic touch to it by way of silhouettes and accessories can add an edge to the look. For example, choose a silver jacket with power shoulders, wear heels with a high metallic Japanese platform, and if you’re feeling bold enough, then add a brilliant silver streak to your hair to clash fabulously with those gold hoops. Satya Paul

Satya Paul

Zara

Mixed metallic accents glint right through the shows in global fashion capitals

Look at Aldo for sky-high teetering metallic platform pumps that are all glittery gold but with a silver base.

Spruce your saris

The combination of gold and silver looks regal in Indian wear as seen at Meena Bazaar. Mixing gold and silver can extend to your desi look, too. If you’re wearing a gold choli, then keep the borders of your sari stunning silver. Combine gold and silver zari work for a rich princess-like effect.

Attention to aesthetics

Mixing metals shows fashion bravado and is a fabulous way to spice up your style quotient. Match metallic items with block colours and easy fabrics. Build your outfit around the metallic items, because they will inevitably draw the maximum attention. Do notcomplement with neon colours — the sharp contrast will drive you into the background. Just two metallic pieces add a shot of glamour to everything from formals to club wear. Marks & Spencer and Zara are the ultimate in monochrome separates that are indispensable while creating a mix-metal look. The best way you can wear this look is with oodles of confidence. It’s easy as a cake, powerful to flaunt, and this is the season of bling. So gear up to shine in style. sOliver

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Zara

Trending

Checks and houndstooth

By Mahima Shukla

Check Mate

friend over any ensemble. Guys can give checks a muchneeded young uplift and work out a perfect casual Friday look with Esprit or Calvin Klein check shirt teamed with a modern corduroy jacket. Combine these with sleek, slim-fit grey trousers from French Connection and loafers in suede from Zara to complete the look. The result is perfect for a day at the office immediately followed by a dinner with pals. For a Sunday brunch, go the preppy Geek-chic route with a classic argyle sweater from Marks & Spencer, layered with a classic white polo shirt from Lacoste and distressed jeans from Alcott. Complete the look with leather lace-up sneakers from Aldo, and you are set for a day out and about. You could also invest in a plaid scarf, which will instantly upgrade any ensemble, such as one from Zara that’s perfect under blazers while travelling, or tucked into sweaters for those relaxed days.

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Old classics like Tartan, houndstooth and Prince of Wales checks are back in the reckoning. Here’s how to rock the trend

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Zara

How to team it right American socialite and reality star Kim Kardashian teams the houndstooth dress with simple black pumps and a black clutch, in a monochrome look. You can team your checks or houndstooth jacket with black pants (right). Or, wear a houndstooth jacket or a shirt with blue denims and these lovely tan shoes. French Connection

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hecks in all patterns and colours have made a striking comeback, but these aren’t your grandpa’s musky tweeds. The new era of the two patterns is bolder, brighter and cooler. For girls, this is a great trend for the day, especially for outdoor activities. Stock up on wardrobe staples from Mango, Tommy Hilfiger, Calvin Klein and Latin Quarters. Their great chequered shirt is perfect to team with leather skinny pants from Marks & Spencer for a trendy day look. Combine caramel Azuret boots from Steve Madden with a chunky woollen cap from Zara and your look is super cool. Not enough girly pizzazz for your style? Try a blue mini dress from French Connection, minus the plaid but with sequined embroidery to simulate it, making it perfect for glamour evenings. Promod also has this must-have equestrian cape in tartan, which could be your best

Zodiac

Latin Quarters

Promod

Calvin Klein

Steve Madden

Marks & Spencer

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Textures

What to team textures with

By Mahima Shukla

Promod

Zara

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Tommy Hilfiger

Rule Breakers Mango

Zara

f you love razzle-dazzle and shine, you’re in luck because everything sparkly this season should be on your shopping list, along with everything matt and textured. Fashionable girls never had it this easy — teaming up unlikely textures such as sequins with furs and pastel prints. Group stripes and polka dots, leather and lace — odd couples are your best bet for a look that is unique. Not only are the signature pieces of your look different, they are contrasted with textures and prints for maximum impact. Combine harsh and soft, sheer and opaque, matt and shiny and add a whole new dimension to your wardrobe. Choose from a variety of garments that have great textured details, such as a dress from Marks & Spencer that combines delicate cutwork with opaque sequins, net, tulle and lace on a chiffon base. Team it up with a chic leather jacket in apple red from French Connection for a day look. There are some pieces, such as a gorgeous peach dress from Mango, which does all the talking for you. Its elaborate drape, lush fit and delicate beading around the neckline combines all aspects of the look. Another interesting look is combining a lace tee from French Connection with satin trousers from Mango, finished with a luxurious fur gilet from Promod and a faux leather belt. If you are looking for a more demure way to sneak in texture, try some accessories. Zara offers a host of embellished clutches that will spruce up even the drabbest of little black dresses — a vintage inspired one with feather fringing and rivets, or a sequinned envelope clutch that adds extravagance. While you have added sparkle on your clutches, don’t forget your feet. Steve Madden offers a delectable range of heels, such as Bevv, a gold round toe pump with sequinned sheeting and gorgeous ebony flats called I-Dreemy, enveloped in Swarovski crystals. The secret is to team up your favourite decadent pieces along with plush separates for a look that spells bling and glamour.

bebe

Mango

French Connection

Steve Madden

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Textured fabrics, exotic trimmings and drapes sum up the season’s sumptuous best, as seen in dresses and tunics

Zara

Trending

The Biker’s Gear

By Joshua Craspo

Dream Machines

here’s a H.O.G. club in every city waiting for another enthusiast to thunder in. We’ve put together a list of some of the coolest Harleys available in India so you pick one and ride from a showroom to a H.O.G. clubhouse near you.

XR1200X The XR1200X is probably the sportiest Harley out there. Based on the XR750 flat-track motorcycle that is still a favourite for many flat-track racers around the world, this XR1200X is light years ahead. From an adjustable suspension, to a big V-twin evolution engine that makes so much torque it could probably make the earth turn around, this one is for those who want to go fast.

Way to go

Ultra Classic Electra Glide This 400-odd kg behemoth is the essential American dream. Imagine a motorcycle with a satellite radio, an iPod and speakers, heated seats and handgrips, a GPS and a big 110-cubic inch motor to match the miles, and you have one of these Ultra Classic Electra Glides in the flesh. This winter is a good time to ride one of them.

Fat Boy Special

ere’s some Harley-Davidson trivia. Did you know that you could’ve decorated your entire Christmas tree with Harley-Davidson ornaments — from a holiday ball to a snowflake? Apart from branded snowflakes and balls, they have a Harley stocking so that biker Santa could roll by on his custom Harley sled and fill it up. Harley-Davidson merchandise has been drool maal for many in India. Guaranteed to add to your cool-quotient, whether as gifts or trinkets for personal use, these are there for the taking. We did our research and have come up with the coolest pieces of gear.

H-D Riding gear

Harley-Davidson sells what is called functional riding gear, which is essentially what you need to use if you’re riding a motorcycle. The gear includes everything — armoured jackets, heated vests, high visibility jackets and rain overalls. Ankle high boots with full ventilation and gauntlet gloves in black or pink are there too. But if you want to flaunt your H.O.G. (Harley Owners’ Group) status, visit their clothing section.

Clockwise from TOP left: The Harley-Davidson leather jacket, watch, bar stool, Hog Bank, shoe, wine glass and gloves

Harley-Davidson Casual Wear

Have you seen a picture of those WWII pilots step away from their P51Mustangs with cool bomber jackets and skull helmets? You can now have one off-the-shelf at the Harley store at DLF Promenade. If you fancy being a Harley racer, a lumberjack on two wheels, a denim-totting Marlboro man on a motorcycle or a pillion-rider for any of the members of this cool species, you can now visit the store and kit yourself out.

Hog Bank

For those of you who are dying to own a Harley, here’s a good start. Get a Hog Bank and fill it up, preferably with notes in high denominations. Break when full and you’ve got yourself a brand new motorcycle. And it’s available in pink for all you biker chicks. The ceramic black or pink glazed bank features a two-tone decal.

Bar and Shield Letter Box

For all corporate honchos who are forced to drive to work, one of these on the office desk is a good way to start a motorcycle conversation

with another Harley enthusiast, especially when you’re clinching that million-dollar deal. While the letter box comes with a bar and shield logo medallion in front, the logo print inside the box is incentive enough to ensure that you deal with all mail quickly.

Harley-Davidson Motor Co Archive

If you’re one of those people who needs to know everything there is to know about Harleys — their birth, the depression, their most famous models, this book gives you a comprehensive insight into a century of Harley-Davidson. Available in hardcover and paperback editions, the book is famous for its stunning photographs.

Harley-Davidson Bar Merchandise

From wine glasses (picture the French drinking wine in H-D wine glasses) to a whole array of shot glasses (picture Yanks getting rowdy at a bar), the H-D bar line-up is quite impressive. If you’re hosting that post-ride booze party, you ought to bring out the grease tray replica dishes and oil can look-alike glasses.

Remember the Terminator declaring “I’ll be back” before riding off in a roar accompanied by burnt rubber? If that’s your style, then the Fat Boy Special is the motorcycle for you. With its blackout look and satin chrome, the motorcycle is subtle but screams loud when you thumb that starter on the 1690cc engine. With its new seat and lower reach handlebars, you don’t have to be Arnie to ride this one.

Night Rod Special The Night Rod Special is a motorcycle that a purist will refuse to call a Harley. But it has got the badges slapped firmly on and a Harley-Davidson it is. In fact, it’s one of the most technologically advanced motorcycles in the fleet. With a 125-bhp engine designed by Porsche and a frame that oozes sex appeal, the Night Rod Special is one of those motorcycles you need to have if you like to be seen after your motorcycle has been heard.

Heritage Soft Tail Classic There is nothing really that speaks more for itself than the Heritage Soft Tail Classic. It’s pure Harley-Davidson vintage, it’s true-blooded American, it’s the Motorcycle every Yank wants to be astride — George W Bush has one. If only they sold it with the Star-Spangled Banner flying high on a little flagpole, it would be the complete machine.

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Harley-Davidson’s got a little something for everyone. And all of it does not come in a two-wheel format

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Jewel Watches

Corbis

By Carol Saldanha

he Next Gen watch is much more than a timepiece. Fashionistas see it as a piece of jewellery that allows them to wear their style on their wrists. Watch manufacturers are falling over each other to cater to the demand for pieces worthy of being snatched up as perpetual style statements. There’s a lot to choose from, so we give you a glimpse of what’s on offer and how to choose.

Dials: If you’ve got it, f launt it

Once you’ve found the perfect watch, the symbol of your style, status and more, you’ll probably want everyone swooning over it. It’s no surprise then that large dials seem to have caught everyone’s fancy. While small dials might look dainty, the current large dial trend works with the watch’s new role as a piece of jewellery. First, it gives you a medium-sized accessory — neither too small nor too chunky. More interestingly, large dials allow watch manufacturers to bring you a good deal of variety. You can pick one that has motifs on the dial itself or one that is jewel-encrusted. The more detail-oriented may want the kind that has intricately designed second and minute-hands. So take a good, long look at the large dial watches to find something that suits you.

A watch went from being an indispensable accessory as a timepiece to near redundancy when mobiles came along. Now, in its new avatar, it is a piece of jewellery, studded with precious stones and decorative straps

Bling it on!

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The current large dial trend works with the watch’s new role as a piece of jewellery

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Jewel Watches

The Carl F Bucherer collection at Ethos has some very ornate minute hands-on large rectangular dials, while the dials themselves are uniquely shaped — with pillar-like shapes flanking them. Ethos retails some of the biggest fashion watch brands like Seiko, Tissot, Swatch, Armani, Balmain, COVER and DKNY. DKNY’s Essentials line offers seven easy pieces that every woman should have in her closet — either studded with precious stones or with an avant-garde design. The Breguet Marine Automatic Big Date Men’s Wristwatch has a motif, which brings to mind a windmill in motion, at the centre of its dial. For women, the Breguet’s Reine de Naples Automatic Mini collection has a timepiece with an especially appealing ovalshaped, diamond-encrusted dial. Adding to the watch’s retro allure is a black satin strap. For those who are all for the features, watches with larger dials often offer you the option of multiple country time-keeping, chronometers and compasses, among others. Armani and Tissot are very popular in this category of watches with their large classic dials and clean cuts that make room for more features. Guess watches combine edgy style with high quality performance. Our favourites from the new glamorous collection are the colour pop watches in white, pink and yellow. Add a splash of colour to your wardrobe with these watches or make a chic statement with a metallic style and team with other accessories.

Straps: Classic makes a comeback

Precious stones and metals

Diamonds hold on to their girl’s-best-friend status; crystals are a close second. Gold watches are in great demand as people become open to splurging on wrist jewellery. “Our watches range between `19,000 and `50,000 and during the last month, our most expensive sale was a `42,000 rose gold watch,” says Sanghi. The watch comes from Swarovski’s Elis collection, which consists of large dial watches with futuristic shapes. According to Sanghi, the Elis crystal watch complements evening ensembles perfectly. There are variations of this popularity contest winning piece, such as the one with a leather strap, the watch with its diamond-encrusted Elis Bangle that Sanghi describes as “super bling”.

Colour and style inspirations from ramps

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If you’re looking for a piece that is in keeping with the latest colour and style inspirations from the ramp, Tissot has a watch from the skin colour family. Its square dial framed with a flower motif at one corner and its matching skin-peach coloured strap make it a great way to help you catch up with the skin trend. Interestingly, the leather strap trend matches perfectly with the motorcycle chic forecast that some fashion gurus have for 2012. Alexander McQueen’s dominatrix style appears to be an inspiration to some watch manufacturers, too. The Seiko anodized dual-tone bracelet ladies watch in its black and gold variation is perfect for fans of McQueen.

Leather straps, which were replaced by metal straps a few years ago, are now shooting up the popularity charts as everything classic becomes fashionable

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If you’ve been watching the ‘80s find its way on to ramps with the ‘40s hot on their heels, this trend will be no surprise to you. Leather straps, which were replaced by metal straps a few years ago, are now shooting up the popularity charts as everything classic becomes fashionable. Gentlemen will probably be more open about snapping up watches with the now vastly stylish leather strap. A tip for those going for the retro watch look: Roman numbers complete the look to perfection. Alongside the classic is futuristic design. Swarovski’s mesh watch strap is a hot favourite. “The crystal mesh strap has been an all-time bestseller and remains the most popular today,” says

Shirish Sanghi, Multi-brand Distribution Manager at Swarovski India, adding that he has noticed a demand for leather straps in recent months. Seiko has some dual-toned metal bracelet watches in the Time 2 Hands category of 2011 Spring Summer collection that hit the nail on the head of the futuristic design trend. Silver and golden metal, asymmetrically distributed on the length of the strap give it an understated, yet out-of-this-world look

Trending

Personal Style

By Alyssandra Mendonca

Spunky, vivacious Priyanka Chopra has a style that veers from comfortable on most days, to sexy and stunning for evenings out or for events. She shares her style secrets and beauty rules

Secrets of the stars | The Anniversary Issue

“Comfort and knowing what suits me — the fit, the style and the look are my style basics. At most times, I am in denims and a T-shirt. For evenings out, I slip into a short, sexy dress. For day wear, I often look for cotton or jersey dresses. I also experiment — jumpsuits, short skirts, solid coloured dresses and dresses with slight drape in the front.”

Accessories

“I am an accessory person and I love my sunglasses. I have them in all kinds of colours. I also love my high heels, and that’s about the only accessory I wear.”

My beauty routine

“The three things that every good skincare or make-up professional will tell you is — cleanse, tone and moisturise. As an actor, I’m required to wear a lot of make-up, whether it’s for movies, photo-shoots or in appearances. So, when I’m not working, my routine is very basic. The things that I carry with me at all times are my Pond’s Perfect Results Multi-Benefit Cream and M.A.C Studio Fix.

“On my days off, I don’t do much; I just allow my skin to breathe. I do drink lots of water and never forget my multi-vitamins. Pampering your skin is very important, and I try and get in a facial whenever possible.”

For the big night out

“On most days, when I’m not making a public appearance, I use absolutely minimal make-up. But for an evening out, I use an eyeliner, blush and lipstick. My look includes a sexy short dress and high heels.”

Getting it right with the hair

“Because of the arclights and the amount of colour we use, my hair is battered and abused. I oil my hair regularly and condition it as well. I trim my hair once in about two months or as and when I feel the need.”

Why dieting isn’t that cool

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My Style

“Diets don’t work for me. I try and eat healthy most of the time but also don’t stop myself from eating what I feel like, whether it’s a pepperoni pizza or aloo parantha. I try not to binge. Eating everything in balance and losing weight steadily is more beneficial then dieting.”

Trending By Nisha Mehtra and Simona Terron

An Amateur’s Guide to

The Bar Essentials

Wines

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t is possible, though not advisable, to buy a wine based on the design on the label, a quirky name, or tic-tactoe based on your budget. Some even rely on chance remarks, rating wines based on parameters entirely in the reviewers head. For someone who loves entertaining, the possibilities offered by wines are endless — it is often the best gift to give and sometimes just what you need to complement a perfect meal at home or at a fine-dining venue. But how does one pick the right wine? There are some rules but they are mostly for breaking. A holder of some of the most prestigious degrees in the field, Gagan Sharma, sommelier and wine educator, of Wi-Not Beverage Solutions, says: “The newer wine connoisseurs believe in only one rule — of experimenting.” Like with all good things, it is personal taste that will be the best guide. However, there are a couple of factors that will help you in making an informed decision. The best place to start is the label — it will let you know instantly the type, variety, flavour, region and vintage of the wine. Sometimes the owner’s notes on the bottle may serve to guide you on the flavours, brand and even food pairing suggestions. Many labels also have grading printed on them — the higher the rating, the better the wine. Anything above 80 points is good. As a rule, aged wines are better, of course. But do remember that vintage simply refers to the year it was made and acts of God ensure that some years produce better wines than others. The amount of rain that falls close to harvest time would determine the amount of sugar in the grapes. A tip from connoisseurs: 1990 was a great year for all wine.

The biggest thing that impacts the taste of a wine is the type of grape or the varietal used to make the wine. Where the winemaker sources grapes is an important factor — soil, exposure to sunlight, climate, how the grapes are handled and fermented, types of yeast used, whether the wine is aged in wood or oak, all add up in the bottle. When choosing wines, the two basics that everyone knows are white and red wines. The difference while manufacturing is between the grapes used. The juice used to make red wine contains skin, stems and seeds of red or black grapes. When it comes to white wine, the colour of the grapes can be any, but only the clear juice of the grapes is used. What is known as sparkling wine is produced when the wine is prepared in a way that produces carbon dioxide. The sparkling wine that specifically comes from the Champagne region of France is Champagne. Wines can be sweet or dry — a literal measurement scaled between 00 (very dry) to 6 (very sweet). The age-old rule is that dark spirits are served with meat and white ones with seafood and vegetables. The reason for this is that red wines tend to be heavier while white wines are usually lighter. The rule does not seem to work very well with Indian cuisine. A spokesperson from Sula Vineyards says: “The red-and-white rule doesn’t work very well here. Smoked or tandoori meats go very well with a full-bodied white wine like an oaked Chardonnay, while fish-based dishes in coconut gravy can be paired with a Pinot Noir. Although, powerful red wines are the usual choice, it is the body of the wine that is of utmost importance rather than its colour or flavour.”

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Tannins, whites versus reds, fruity or dry... wine words can leave you feeling like there is a whole world out there waiting to be explored. Here is how to start your involvement with wine

The Bar Essentials

The Essential List

ith a considerable increase in the wine consumption in India, local wineries are expanding their offering and are catering to the super premium segment. Collaborations with European wine giants have produced a range of international varieties from the subcontinent’s grapes, which, owing to its soil and climate, have a character of their own. Nikhil Agarwal, sommelier and director of All Things Nice — a consultancy for luxury wines, spirits and food — hand-picks the seven best Indian wines and the finest gourmet items to pair them with.

York Reserve Shiraz A winner at the Sommelier India Wine Competition and the International Wine Challenge, this wine is a sure shot pleaser. Priced very competitively, this is a wonderful medium-bodied wine with notes of wellintegrated oak, derived from its ageing in French and American barrels, over a period of 10 to 11 months. Dark fruits, dark chocolate and peppery spice on the palate make way for a good finish. The York Winery is situated in Nasik, just a stone’s throw away from Sula Vineyards and their tasting room and lawns are a perfect place to dreamily let the day go by. Pair it with anything from the tandoor, roast lamb, a good steak or your favourite dark chocolate.

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Reveilo Reserve Chardonnay

Barrel-fermented and barrel-aged, this Chardonnay is a creamy, buttery wine with tropical fruits and a full body. The winery produces great wines using grape varietals such as Chenin Blanc and Cabernet Sauvignon amongst others. They have even successfully experimented with Italian grape varietals like Nero D’Avola and Sangiovese. Try it with risotto or grilled fish, or on its own.

Vallonné Reserve Merlot The wine has intense fresh aromas of dark chocolate and cigar, mixed with woody hints of vanilla and toast. Barrel ageing has enhanced these flavours to make it a complex and elegant wine. The rich mouth-filling palate has supple woody tannins with concentrated red fruit flavours. Vallonné Vineyards is a boutique winery which brings French-style wines to the Nashik Valley. French for ‘undulating landscape’, Vallonné was set up in 2009 and stands

By Kriti Sharma

on sprawling estates that rest on the gentle southern slopes of Kavnai village in the Sahyadri ranges. Try it with mutton rogan josh or lamb stew.

Fratelli Chenin Blanc

The one way to tell heaviness is to go by the tannin content. Often a basis of reviews in red wines, tannin comes from the stalks, skin and pips of grapes. In young wines it ends up in a bitter taste on the palate. Once you have tasted a few wines and savoured them, it is possible to tell the length — the amount of time the sensations of taste and aroma persist after swallowing.

a spicy vindaloo or mutton curry laden with garam masala would require a high intensity wine. The texture of the dish also matters. Food with a chewy texture, example mutton or lamb need to be paired with heavy red wines which are high in tannins, where the wine and food are equally intensely flavoured. Nikhil Agarwal, director, All Things Nice, a company that offers a platform for knowledge,

This wine has citrus notes backed with a hint of tropical fruits. Dry, crisp and refreshing, this is a fantastic wine from a very young winery of Fratelli Wines that is intent on focussing on quality. It is situated in Akluj, about two hours from Pune. They have 240 acres of land under vine, which they own and supervise themselves. The winery is state-of-theart, with a design that will blow your mind. What makes them special, however, is the hospitality you receive once you set there. Try it with chevre or Chinese stir fry.

“The newer wine connoisseurs believe in only one rule — of experimenting”

York Late Harvest Chenin Blanc With ripe tropical fruits perfectly balanced with citrus notes, this wine goes down like a dream. It works very well with desserts and is versatile enough to pair with spicy Thai or Chinese cuisine.

Gagan Sharma, sommelier, Wi-Not Beverage Solutions

Good Earth Basso (Cabernet Sauvignon)

Aged in French oaks for 12 months under the hawk eye supervision of one of India’s finest winemakers, makes this Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon worthy of making it to this list. It is medium-bodied with hints of blackcurrant and pepper. The oak lingers in the back while blending in perfectly with the fruit. Try it with roast chicken, or for something a little adventurous, sample it with Gorgonzola. Good Earth is a virtual winery as they produce their wines using the facilities of other wineries.

Sula Brut Rosé A dry rose sparkler from India’s most famous winery, Sula Vineyards, it is a blend of Chenin Blanc and Zinfandel grape varietals. The wine is an easy drinking rose with hints of red fruit backed with refreshing acidity. Sula Vineyards is at the helm of the wine industry, posting more volumes than any other winery in India. Their vineyards in Nasik are breathtaking. They have it all — a fantastic tasting room with an unbelievable view, Indian and Italian restaurants and even a small boutique hotel.

to choose a tannin-rich wine with fish because the mercury in the fish will react with the tannins to produce an unpleasantly metallic taste in the mouth. “Go with a nice Pinot Noir or any other wine with a light body,” he says. Another factor that needs to be balanced is the wine’s acidity. Higher acidity makes the wine more tart and sour, whereas low acidity results in flat tasting wine, which can get spoilt faster. For all other flavours in the wine to stand out — undertones of fruit, spice and herbs — the right acidity is important. It is described as tangy, sharp, refreshing, bracing, bright, crisp or zingy. Traditionally, while pairing wine and food, complementing qualities were emphasised, but today, contrast works well. “A fish in lemon

Wine and Food Pairing

When choosing alcohol, pairing it to the food is important. If not well-matched one would overwhelm the other. The dish could take its flavour from the ingredients or from the method cooking. For example, plain dal or lightly cooked dishes are low in flavour and would require a wine with low intensity, while

networking and indulgent experiences for wine, luxury spirits and gourmet food aficionados, says, “A recent trend is to match the beverage with the textures of the dish. For example, steak with a glass of Chardonnay, and a Merlot or any young wine with fish, would do well.” He cautions that one has to be careful not

cream sauce would have been paired with a creamy Chardonnay. But an acidic Sauvignon Blanc, which cuts through the creaminess of the sauce would refresh the palate,” says the Sula spokesperson. Do take a look at the alcohol content of the wine, which is referred to as its body, clearly indicated on the label. A full-bodied wine is about 12.5 per cent or more in alcohol content, whereas if you need a light-bodied one for a mix of guests, opt for one with an alcohol content of 7.5 per cent to 10.5 per cent. The last word is about storage. It is important to buy wine from outlets that take good care of their wines. Extreme heat or cold, direct sunlight and dramatic temperature fluctuations are not good for wine — this is why wine is stored in cellars. Before you buy, check that wine is filled up to the neck of the bottle, the cork is not pushing out of the bottle, and there are no signs of leakage.

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Getaways

Four Seasons, Seychelles

Park Hyatt Goa

Syna Tiger Resort, Bandhavgarh

Amanruya, Turkey

rock formations. The resort itself is situated on a lush hillside. Once there, you can opt for blissful isolation or indulge yourself in pleasures that include spa rituals with Coco de Mer at a spa 263 ft above sea level. The island offers journeys to studios and galleries of Mahé. For the lucky ones there is a chance to witness the yearly migration of whale sharks bypassing the Seychelles archipelago. The resort offers luxury resort villas and suites perched on stilts high on the jungle hillside or nestled amid greenery close to the beach. Expansive indoor and outdoor spaces are built in the traditional Creole style, with the infinity edge plunge pool surrounded by a natural hardwood deck simply setting it off. fourseasons.com/seychelles

the airport. You can see yourself enjoying a whirlpool on the balcony overlooking the calm waters of Bambolim Bay in one of the suites. For those who prefer green to pink on romantic getaways, there is 28 acres of lush tropical gardens and rolling lawns. With both indoor and outdoor pools, there is no excuse to not enjoy the permanent carnival that is Goa. For pampering that comes from Bali, Thailand and India, Shamana Spa at Grand Hyatt Goa is perfectly spread across 34,000 sq ft. The spa houses 19 treatment suites that include six couples’ suites and two Royal suites. The Royal suites are designed as sanctuaries and offer hydrothermal facilities with a sunken bath, vitality pool and multi-sensory rain showers. The spa also houses a 25 metre indoor lap pool and a 1,300 sq ft lifestyle studio. An outdoor free form swimming pool is the perfect feature for guests to relax and enjoy the sea breeze and literally soak in the Goan experience. It’s bit late to plan a Valentine wedding, but it’s worth a try to snag the covered terrace, which is strategically located above the banquet entrance to give the bride and groom a traditional royal entrance with petals or confetti being bestowed upon them. The artistic woodwork around the jharokha is a traditional intricate design done in Burma teak. goa.grand.hyatt.com

all others, there are creatively designed luxury cottages. You are likely to fall in love again and relearn the ritual of waiting to realise the promise of sighting the royal Bengal tigers which call the Bandhavgarh sanctuary their home. Luxury open-top 4X4s ensure that while on a safari you do not miss on the beauty, fragrances and sounds of the deep forest. Colourful birds, deer frozen in its tracks, the lush green foliage all hold still as the tiger makes its presence felt, as it is wont to in the jungle. The resort itself leaves out no luxury, with each room differently themed and equipped with a Jacuzzi. Restaurants, a spa named Wildwood, swimming pool, guided nature trails, elephant and jeep safaris, local sightseeing, folk performances and bird watching complete the picture book nature of the holiday. synatigerresort.com

Grand Hyatt Goa

Syna Tiger Resort, Bandhavgarh

Footsteps in time Six luxury getaways for those in love and those on a quest for it

| The Anniversary Issue

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e hand-pick luxury retreats across the world for those wanting to get away this Valentine’s Day — the newly opened Grand Hyatt Goa has a lovely spa and offers a couple spa package; Syna Tiger Resort at Bandhavgarh in the heart of tiger country is spectacular; a classical spa holiday awaits you at the new Amanruya in Turkey; Oriental Escapes bespoke luxury romance package to Thailand; a secluded luxury private-island hideaway at Jumby Bay in the Caribbeans and the beautiful Four Seasons hotel at Seychelles.

Four Seasons, Seychelles

Tree-top villas, deserted beaches ending in blue waters flanked by lush hillside, Seychelles is the stuff of countless Hollywood romances. The island country is made up of 115 islands in the Indian Ocean teeming with rare flora and fauna, even as art, shopping and multiple other attractions all vie for any spare attention. Four Seasons Seychelles — located on the southwest coast of Mahé, the granite-filled main island — describes its setting as “the heart of a lost Eden”. Indeed, for luxury in natural jungle setting there is almost no parallel. The island is famed for its white powder beaches and dramatic

Goa promises beaches with flea markets, a susegad attitude that defies the choppy seas and a laidback holiday which challenges stereotype itineraries. For Valentine’s Day there is no better place than the recently opened Grand Hyatt Goa, the first Hyatt to be located in the vibrant North Goa. The contemporary resort and spa built in the architectural style of a 17th century Indo-Portuguese palace, is a quick 20-minutes from

There is no romance better than the thrill of being able to watch tigers courting nature’s wildest best, amid ruins of centuries past that speak of kings and emperors of their realm. Situated right at the edge of Bandhavgarh National Park, the Syna Tiger Resort comes with peace and adventure in equal measures. For those who want to perch amid foliage, there is a tree house. For

Amanruya, Turkey

Entering Amanruya is somewhat like entering a dream. An access road shows itself and then weaves its way through the trees before you spot Amanruya. This new seaside resort on Turkey’s Bodrum Peninsula, Amanruya is the latest offering from Singapore-based Aman Resorts. The luxury is unparalleled with each of the resort’s 36 cottages featuring its own terrace, a 35 square metre swimming pool, fireplace and great views of the Aegean Sea. Inspired by the region’s traditional Mediterranean and Ottoman architecture and building methods, the resort ascends through a series of levels, offering a variety of courtyards and terraces. You feel like you are in a village even as you soak in a sense of luxury. Light and shadow keep you playful in the narrow pathways and

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By Nitya Mehra

Getaways

Oriental Escapes, Anantara Dream Luxury River Cruise

Jumby Bay, Antigua

courtyards, even as luxuries such as a three-storey library, wine lounge, art gallery, tennis court, and 50 metre marble swimming pool nudge you into indulgence. The resort’s numerous dining options are spread over four pavilions and serve Turkish, continental and Asian dishes. Amanruya offers casual dining at the Beach Club. A few months into opening, Amanruya is already known for combining classical history and natural beauty in equal measure. The season also prompts perfect use of Turkish mangal charcoal fireplace in each of the cottages. amanresorts.com/amanruya/home.aspx

suggested ones, which include the “Thousand Golden Temples” journey to Ayutthaya or a Mystic River Tour to Angthong. The vessel departs from the Anantara Cruises pier located on the riverfront of the Bangkok Marriott Resort & Spa. orientalescape.com/thailand/tourpackage/ ayutthaya/anantara-dream.html

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Anantara Dream Luxury River Cruise

Making its maiden voyage in May 2006, Anantara Dream is a 20 metrelong rice barge offering exclusive five-star overnight charters along the famous Chao Phraya River in Thailand. It’s a perfect Valentine’s destination with two elegantly appointed staterooms providing the most intimate of cruise experiences for no more than two couples. The staterooms, measuring between 20-25 square metres in size, are fully air-conditioned and come with en suite facilities. The decor is meant to fit with the overall experience of being taken care of and pampered. From dining to sleeping to lounging and enjoying the passing scenery, the cruise is designed to simply sweep you away. The vessel’s upper deck features an expansive lounging area with two sumptuously plush sofas designed for maximum relaxation and comfort. A fully provisioned galley and separate crew quarters complete this inventory. There is a dedicated chef onboard and can prepare great Thai delicacies on demand. Guests are free to create their own itinerary or go by one of the

Jumby Bay, Antigua

Set on a 300-acre private Caribbean island, Jumby Bay, A Rosewood Resort is not a typical Robinson Crusoe experience. Located two miles off the coast of Antigua, the exclusive resort is as known for its lush landscape, stately palm trees and three superb white sand beaches as it is for the luxury it epitomises. A secluded hideaway accessible only by boat, the hideaway is famous for those seeking service with seclusion. The getaway makes it easier to have a private island wedding. For those who think eloping is a luxury, the local authorities have simplified the process of arranging marriages and renewing vows. With only a 24hour residency required to tie the knot, the resort promises ‘Run to the Altar’, a new resort getaway featuring three days of nuptial celebration for newlyweds and 20 of their closest family and friends. The resort comes with a spa, 28 spacious suites, new open-air Verandah, new Pool Grille bistro-style restaurant and a pair of $18-million Estate Homes with private pools, tennis courts and full access to the many amenities of Jumby Bay. The turquoise waters of the Caribbean are pretty much the default view from even the least luxurious cottages. Wrap around terraces, the charm is added on by private courtyards and outdoor garden showers. www.rosewoodhotels.com/en/jumbybay

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Trending

Books

On the

Fad diets, crazy exercises and water therapy — our battle with the bulge is an ongoing process. Two books that will tell you how to lose it all

Shelf Reviews and previews of the books that you should be reading

The art of staying

thin

Shubra Krishan This book by a nutritionist serves up a brew of delicious dishes that you can work through every evening, without wondering what that’s going to do to your waistline. From what she calls ‘slim-n-sexy’ recipes, to how to indulge your nightly longings for something spicy and creamy and even how to get rid of the guilt pangs that invariably attack you when you binge, there is a bit of something for every serial dieter. And for those who think rice and bread are sins for people on a diet, she dishes out quite a few ways to eat the two deadly carbs without feeling the guilt pangs. Lusciously illustrated and beautifully laid out, this is exactly what you need to chase your diet blues away.

Confessions of a serial dieter Kalli Purie This witty, crazy book by the young Delhi woman, daughter of publishing hotshot, Aroon Purie, chronicles her love affair with food and her lovehate relationship with the weighing scale. Over the years she has tried several diets, and there are 43 she lists out for you to choose from. While releasing the book, Purie commented, “It may be easier to find your soulmate than to find your happy weight. After trying 43 diets, I found my happy weight — a fit body is the best costume you can ever have.” It is for all those who love the idea of fad diets.

The Reluctant Detective

Kiran Manral If fun reading is on your agenda, and if wry, rib-tickling humour gets you going, pick Manral’s debut novel. The book chronicles the adventures of a 30-year-old suburban housewife, mother to a five-year-old Kabir, a woman who is slightly overweight like many of us, who worships the ground her maid walks on, hates the size XL clothes she has to buy, laughs at the daily soap characters which people her television set every evening and is, well, looking for something more fun to do. Two murders in her quiet locality give her all the right opportunities to turn detective, a perfect job for someone who likes to be in the thick of things. Replete with droll humour, this one’s a must-read debut.

Hot Tea across India

Rishad Saam Mehta There is absolutely no place in India where you won’t find a hot cup of tea. And no road trip is ever complete without stopping for that cup of chai. Rishad Saam Mehta, avid trekker, travel writer and a fan of those hot cups of chai, writes about his journeys across the length and breadth of India, intertwined with all the hot chai stops he has made along the way. From honeyand-saffron-infused tea shared with a shepherd in Kashmir to tea shared with rank strangers on the highways that crisscross India, Mehta relives interesting encounters on these pages. And through them, he tells the story of an unexplored and enriching India.

Monday Morning

Sanjay Gupta Sanjay Gupta, CNN’s chief medical correspondent, makes his first attempt at fiction. Every Monday morning, surgeons reflect on their mistakes and what they led to. In this book, Gupta follows five surgeons as they attend the Morbidity and Mortality conference, exploring their personal and professional failings and whether they learn from the mistakes and how.

Some Assembly Required

Anne Lamott Anne Lamott’s Operating Instructions was about her son Sam’s first year of life. New parents identified with the honest and funny book. Now that Sam is an adult and has made a baby at 19, Lamott grapples with becoming a grand mom. As the transition takes place in the life of both Anne and Sam, the book takes us through parenting and grandparenting.

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Thinner Dinner

Om Book Shop at DLF Promenade is the perfect haunt for booklovers.

Trending

Music By Radhika Singh

The hottest music this season — from Karan Johar’s Agneepath to Ek Deewana Tha, an unusual love story filmed in Goa, and new albums by Norah Jones and Bruce Springsteen

The

Folk

Touch

enerally, Karan Johar opts for his favourite Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy to do the music of his films. But this time around, Johar, in a break from tradition, chose National Award winning musical duo, Ajay-Atul, for his cult classic remake Agneepath. What you have is a rustic, folkish tune in ‘Chikni Chameli’, the one that Katrina Kaif grooves to with so much abandon. The soundtrack has six beautiful compositions. If ‘Chikni Chameli’, sung by Shreya Ghoshal, is high on the sounds of nagada and dhol beats, the instruments of rural Maharashtra, where, incidentally, the movie is based, ‘O Saiyyan’ is a soft track with minimal arrangements and Roop Kumar Rathod’s soft-as-a-breath voice. The sitar and tabla jugalbandi is what makes this interlude such a wonderful piece of work. ‘Gun Gun Guna’ has an A R Rahman touch right from the word go. The first 30 seconds has several layers of instruments, and is easy on the ears. Sonu Nigam’s pitch perfect voice lifts up ‘Abhi Mujhe Mein Kahin’, a six minute composition to an altogether different level. The musical arrangements are minimal. The album will stay on your shelves for a pretty long time because of both its commercial music value and its creative experimentation.

After a rather middling year with film music scores, A R Rahman’s Rockstar ratcheted up the popularity stakes because of its experimental music and angst-ridden lyrics. Rahman is back, this time with a romance-dripping score for Ek Deewana Tha that stars Prateik in the lead role. And he is accompanied by Javed Akhtar, a master at romantic poetry. The romantic music genre is among the most challenging for any composer and Rahman adapts some of his Tamil film scores for this Hindi soundtrack. First off is an orchestra-based ode to love, ‘Kya Hai Mohabbat’. The soft, slow, blissful music props up the lyrics. Rahman’s voice, who has sung this number, will soothe your soul. ‘Dost Hai (Girl I Love You)’ is average in comparison — at the core is a romantic vibe provided by the melodic strings of a violin and the vocals of Naresh Iyer. Remixed onto this core is a modern rap song that does nothing to lift the number. ‘Aromale (My Beloved)’ has guitar strummed so precisely and expertly that you feel the music explode in your ears. This multi-lingual number (a blend of Hindi with a few Malayalam lines by Kaithapram Damodaram Nambuthri thrown in), is sung by Alphonse Joseph, whose powerful vocals and alaaps will have you hooked. The song goes through several high notes, and reveals the sense of loneliness and despair that it depicts. ‘Aromale’ also has a super slow version called ‘Broken Promises’ — Rahman just unplugs the music here and allows Shreya Ghoshal to take over. The one song that’s attracted all the attention is the fabulous ‘Hosanna’ with infectious music, which just lifts you off your feet and makes you want to fall in love. What works for this album are the instrumentals that are composed with a lot of finesse and attention to detail, like ‘Moments in Kerala’ and ‘Jessie’s Land’, where the piano and violin are used to ethereal effect. Background alaaps are provided by Prabhakar and Mehga. This one is for all lovers of soft, breezy romantic music.

Little Broken Hearts, Norah Jones

Norah Jones’ new album, Little Broken Hearts is a collaboration with musician, songwriter and producer, Danger Mouse. The two wrote the material for the album together at the producer’s studio in Los Angeles. The songs were all built from the ground up in the studio, with Jones and Danger Mouse sharing all the songwriting credits and performing the majority of the instrumental parts; Jones on piano, keyboards, bass, and guitar, and Danger Mouse contributing drums, bass, guitar, keyboards, and string arrangements. Though Little Broken Hearts is the result of a partnership between Jones and Danger Mouse, the record will be credited only to her. She will promote Little Broken Hearts with extensive touring throughout 2012, including appearances at festivals, arenas and theatres around the world. This one is worth watching out for.

Bruce Springsteen is back

Bruce Springsteen is close to releasing his 17th studio album. It’s a rock record that combines elements of both Springsteen’s classic sound and his Seeger Sessions experience, with new textures and styles. The songs have unexpected textures — loops, electronic percussion, and influences and rhythms from hip-hop to Irish folk rhythms. Members of the E Street Band play on the album, along with a variety of outside musicians like Tom Morello and possibly former Pearl Jam drummer Matt Chamberlain, who has often recorded on Aniello’s projects. The record has social overtones and a spiritual dimension, says Springsteen.

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Ek Deewana Tha, A R Rahman

Buy music at Archies and W H Smith

Trending By Aleyssandra Mendonca

Revisiting Hrithik Roshan was barely a kid when Amitabh Bachchan’s raw, rustic, angst-driven Agneepath exploded on the Indian screen. The star reveals his apprehensions about matching one of the best performances on the Indian screen

Movies

Agneepath

Agent Vinod

Director: Sriram Raghavan Cast: Saif Ali Khan, Kareena Kapoor Saif Ali Khan’s production is slated for a late-March release. A Hindi action spy film written and directed by Sriram Raghavan, it has music composed by Pritam. While the movie is not a remake of the older, 1970s film by the same name, it has been much in news due to Kareena and Saif constantly talking about her action sequences. Kareena plays the role of a secret agent, but has often said that she is much more “comfortable” in a romantic role.

Watch out Four movies that are creating a buzz

Kuch Spice to Make it Meetha

Director: Adeeb Rais Cast: Mansheel Gujral, Mustafa Hussain, Nauheed Cyrusi, Purab Kohli and Sanjeev Kapoor This is another of those young, yuppie films, a genre that new directors are exploiting to the extreme. The leap year release, slated for February 29, is about how the happy life of a divorce lawyer, Akshay Rana (played by Purab Kohli) goes for a toss when his girlfriend of seven years, Tarana (played by Nauheed Cyrussi) insists on getting married. Akshay doesn’t want to let go of his love, but doesn’t believe in the concept of marriage and fears commitment. Will he let go of his love or will he take the plunge? Find out in this tale of young love and commitment phobia urban Indians.

Being Flynn

The Apprehensions

I wasn’t sure if I wanted to do Agneepath because I don’t believe in remakes. But Karan Johar (the producer) was very insistent and asked me to at least listen to the script. In fact, he flew to Spain, where I was shooting for Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara and took me through a three hour narration. I was blown over. Karan had ripped through all the layers and brought out so many nuances that one could have never thought about. He is like god in the film.

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About Agneepath

I am sure the audiences won’t know what to expect. This one is like a closed fist. I hope people don’t come with a preconceived notion. Agneepath is one man’s journey; there aren’t any other extras, like great locations, to pad it up. These are two different films. There are new characters and there’s a new vibe which the audience will immediately recognise.

On the character

In this version, Vijay, the hero, talks and walks differently from Mr Bachchan’s Agneepath. The character is a middle-class boy and definitely not larger-than-life. That’s the biggest difference.

On why looks don’t matter

The true freedom and flight of an actor can only happen when he can break through that cage of physicality. At some point, all of us have to stop trying to look good all the time. This vanity keeps every actor chained down. I’m trying to go beyond that. It isn’t easy to go beyond your physicality. Finally, when you face the camera, it’s your connectivity with the character that counts. I’ve been changing my looks for all my films. You’ve got to keep challenging yourself. I’ll be changing my looks, clothes and entire stance for all my roles. It’s part of my evolution as an actor.

Director: Paul Weitz Cast: Paul Dano, Robert de Niro and Julianne Moore Set for an early March release, this comedy-drama movie is a portrait of the relationship between fathers and sons. Working in a Boston homeless shelter, Nick Flynn re-encounters his father, a con man and self-proclaimed poet. Based on a true story, Being Flynn follows Nick Flynn who is shocked to have an eccentric and a long-absent father, played by De Niro, reaching out to him unexpectedly. Still feeling the loss of his mother (played in flashbacks by Julianne Moore), in the midst of starting a new relationship with Denise (played by Juno’s Olivia Thirlby), the last person Nick wants to see is his father. But you can’t outrun fate and slowly Nick comes to realise he has been given the chance to make a real future not only for himself, but for his struggling father too.

The Pirates! Band of Misf its

Director: Peter Lord, Jeff Newitt Cast: Hugh Grant, Jeremy Piven, Salma Hayek, David Tennant, Imelda Staunton, Martin Freeman Hugh Grant, the bearded pirate captain, is somewhat less-thansuccessful. With a rag-tag crew at his side (Martin Freeman, Brendan Gleeson, Russell Tovey and Ashley Jensen), and odds stacked against him, the Captain has one dream: to beat his bitter rivals Black Bellamy (Jeremy Piven) and Cutlass Liz (Salma Hayek) to the much coveted ‘Pirate Of The Year’ award. It’s a pursuit that takes them from the shores of exotic Blood Island to the hazy streets of Victorian London. Along the way, they battle a devilish queen (Imelda Staunton) and team up with a miserably besotted young scientist (David Tennant).

The

Story

Photo Essay

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A walk down memory lane

t’s not a cakewalk to become the leading fashion mall of Delhi, given the fact that the people of this city have a strong mind of their own when it comes to fashion and style. After all, there ought to be a reason why Delhi is called the fashion capital of India. DLF Promenade is what it is — the leading fashion mall of Delhi — because it went on to become more than just a mall. It is known and loved for being a destination, which speaks a distinct fashion language and boasts of a captivating ambience. The combination of the best fashion brands, open-air cafes and fine dining restaurants, the only 7-screen DT star cinema in Delhi, The Hub (a one-of-its kind open air space with the city’s largest LED screen and a musical fountain) and Kiddyland (the largest play area for kids in Delhi), has brewed the right concoction for DLF Promenade’s success. It’s overwhelming to see the loyalty our customers have shown over the last three years. Our effort is to always better the experience for you, which is why monthly events and promotions always try and offer

Top & Facing page: 1. The mall was abuzz with excitement on the Christmas Eve of 2011 2. DLF Promenade hosted the 24-hour sale fest (2010) 3. Jatin Kochhar styled designer Anamika Khanna, model Amanpreet Wahi and others during the Fashion Focus Style Sessions (2011) 4. A model walks down the ramp during the A/W Fashion Histlist held at The Hub (2011) 5. A bunch of mannequins sit in the atrium showcasing the best looks from all the fashion brands in the mall (2012) 6. Pushpa Bector shares a light moment with actor Neha Dhupia and other models during the Fashion Hitlist Finale 7. Neha Dhupia sizzled on the ramp during the Fashion Hitlist 8. Pushpa Bector receiving the ‘Images Shopping Centre’ award for being the Most Admired Shopping Centre of the year — Marketing & Promotions (2011) given to DLF Promenade

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the best for you, be it deals, offers or give-aways. We are on a neverending quest for offering you the best experience through our all-year round marketing activities. It is rather nostalgic to walk down memory lane with you. The picture canvas is a small summation of our endeavour to make your DLF Promenade the very best every time you walk in. As Pushpa Bector, Senior VP & Mall Head, DLF Promenade, says, “We believe in experimenting and bringing the best of events for our patrons. It is our constant endeavour to indulge our customers with the most innovative and interesting events through the year. The love from our customers has been flattering.”

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Facing page: 9. Young Santarinas shake a leg during the launch of Kiddyland (2010) 10. The famous Acro Mania circus performs live during the DLF Shopping Festival (2011) 11. Darsheel Safary walked the ramp during the Kids Fashion Week organised by DLF Promenade (2011) 12. Ashley Lobo’s dance troupe performs a flash mob on Christmas Eve (2011) 13. Katrina Kaif comes to DLF Promenade to promote Tees Maar Khan (2010) 14. Desi Boyz Akshay Kumar and John Abraham (seen in picture) performed live for their fleet of fans (2011) Clockwise from top left: 15. The Christmas tree sits in the atrium during the Christmas of 2009 16. The 15 feet high bauble Christmas became a talking point (2011) 17. Kids went ga-ga over the Teddy Christmas tree at Kiddyland (2011) 18. The Vintage Car Rally concluded at The Hub with much fanfare (2010) 19. Pushpa Bector inaugurates Kiddyland along with the kids (2010) 20. The tallest Christmas Tree of the Year 2010

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Retail

What the retailers say

Kamal Kotak

Country Head, Major Brands (Mango, Aldo, Promod, Charles & Keith, bebe, La Senza and Inglot)

Sumit Kumar

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“Promenade is set to become Delhi’s premier architectural and commercial landmark. It has a good combination of entertainment and shopping for consumers. With the growing number of conscious customers, DLF Promenade is very well set as a destination. One of the key advantages of DLF Promenade is the location of the mall and the mix of shopping and entertainment (under one roof), which makes it a one-stop destination. M&S is well-known for its brand principles of quality, service, value, trust and innovation. We ensure that the products available in

our stores are of the highest quality. India is an extremely important market for Marks & Spencer, and opening a store at DLF Promenade has definitely benefitted the brand, both in terms of sales as well as brand awareness. Several activities in the mall have worked positively for our brand, including the fashion shows, the kid’s carnival and the season launches. These initiatives have helped us to showcase our fashion credentials — the latest styles and trends — to both our customers and the larger mall audience.”

The Zara Team

“The relationship between DLF and Zara started on 24th June, 2010, when Zara opened its third store in India here. And with every passing month, we see more and more synergy between ourselves. For us, the word that best describes DLF Promenade is dynamic. DLF Promenade, along with Zara, is fast adapting and constantly changing according to the needs of the customers. We appreciate that

“DLF Promenade is one of the few malls with a chic look, modern interiors, excellent mix of brands and a lot of F&B options for food lovers. DLF Promenade has paved the way for mall developers to look at developing a specialised mall for fashion conscious individuals who love brands and want to shop for them in a perfectly created ambience. It is a premium mall with plush interiors, stunning ambience and perfect location. The tenant mix is noteworthy. Delhi is a huge market for international fashion brands, and our brands have gained tremendous popularity by being a part of DLF Promenade. We get the right kind of shoppers who know our brands,

the mall mirrors us in the fact that they too cater to all age groups. With the cinemas, the varied mix of entertainment as well as brands, the variety of cuisine available at the mall and the fantastic food court, DLF Promenade has something for everyone. We congratulate DLF Promenade on the last three years and wish them the very best for many more to come. Kudos DLF Promenade and team!”

shop for them frequently, and are aware of the quality of the products we sell. The customers at DLF Promenade usually come from A and A+ economic ba ckgrounds and have a great passion for international brands. International brands like ours need an environment which is premium, and DLF Promenade’s look and feel makes it work for our brands and our loyal shoppers. Jointly working on fashion events and small store events with the mall management have helped create additional eyeballs for our brands and the mall at large. Initiatives like these always help to create continuous brand awareness and thereby

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Brand Head, (Marks & Spencer Reliance India Pvt Ltd)

Vox Pop

In The Limelight Inputs by Saisha Suri and Aakanksha Agarwal

More than just a mall

The Celebrity Endorsements

DLF Promenade is more than just a regular mall for Delhiites. Besides stores that cater to the A to Z needs of its consumers, it has stylish restaurants, chic cafes and hosts exclusive events that interest everyone. We got in touch with a few frequent visitors who talk about what they love doing at DLF Promenade

or Siddharth and Sarthak Kapoor, two brothers, 23 and 21-years-old respectively, this mall is more than just a shopping destination. Says Siddharth, “We have plenty of malls in Delhi that boast of some of the biggest brands, but the USP of DLF Promenade is how you find all of them under one roof. And apart from being a great shopping destination, the extensive food court also serves a variety of cuisine. For a foodie like me, that’s the best combination.”

arthak adds, “I come here as often as twice a week. And I think that’s a hell lot if you ask a guy. If I ever want to catch a movie, I’m here. If I feel like watching a match on the big screen, I’m here. And Mocha Arthouse is one of my favourite hangout joints in Delhi. This mall has everything one can ask for.”

eepika Mehta, 24, who works with an international airline, says, “DLF Promenade is a shopping haven for girls. One can run out of time and money, but not options when it comes to Promenade. It’s one of those places where you can shop, eat, relax and watch a movie… do anything you feel like. Being a shopaholic, every moment spent shopping here is one of the best ones, I’d say. Cinnabon and Gelato Vinto are two of my favourite places here.”

aran, 26, an engineer, says, “Though I don’t live here anymore, every time I’m in Delhi, I love coming out here and dining with my friends. I like the al fresco setting and when you can watch a match on a huge screen, what more can a guy ask for? Smoke House Deli, Cinnabon and Gelato Vinto are a few of my favourite places at DLF Promenade. I also like Mocha Arthouse for its

or 25-year-old Shruti Khanna, a resident of Vasant Kunj, DLF Promenade is like second home. “I shop here, hangout here and meet my friends here. I am a big brand fanatic and love to shop at Steve Madden, Mango, Zara, Tommy Hilfiger and many of the other brand stores. I like the fact that the mall is sprawling, has beautiful cafes and restaurants and a theatre, which means I can spend an entire day here and not feel bored.”

LF Promenade reminds me of my mall trips abroad. It has everything under one roof — from home shopping to clothing to accessories and restaurants. I, of course, go there to shop. But I also like to eat there and catch a movie sometimes. It is beautifully designed and reminds me of international malls.” Riddhima Kapoor Sahni, Socialite

hat I love about DLF Promenade is its casualness. I love their high street shops like Zara, bebe and Aftershock. The Cinnabon outlet at the mall is a sure shot place to indulge, every time I go. It has everything one can ask for.” Tanisha Mohan, Socialite

LF Promenade has become my favourite shopping destination in Delhi. The best shops here are the ones of high street brands like Mango, Promod and Zara. I love the kind of things my daughter can do at DLF Promenade, especially the time she can spend at Kiddyland. Also Smoke House Deli is my all-time favourite place to catch up with friends over lunch.” Sonalika Sahay, Model

LF Promenade is one place I get everything I want, right from shoes to clothes to bags to books, you name it and the mall has it. M.A.C, Inglot and Lancome are my favourite stores for make-up. Then, of course, there is Zara and Mango, which I think are everyone’s favourites when it comes to shopping for clothes, bags and other accessories. The one place where I eat out often is Smoke House Deli. It is so cosy and has great food.” Shibani Kashyap, Singer

largely head to DLF Promenade to eat out at one of the restaurants. I like the vibe of The Hub. Also, it is lovely to explore what the high street brands are doing. Most of them are there, and this is what makes it such a fashionable hub for most people in Delhi.” Rohit Bal, Designer

head to DLF Promenade every weekend. Not only does it have some nice stores, but if you want to eat out at an interesting restaurant or even catch a movie, it’s the place to be. Also, now that I’m pregnant, I have been shopping at Mothercare a lot. Zara, Mango and Lancome are some of my other favourite brands at the mall.” Amanpreet Wahi, Model

| The Anniversary Issue

Pick out any name from the blackbook of Delhi’s celebrities and they will tell you that DLF Promenade is their favourite mall to shop, hangout, eat and chill

Design

T The Curve Story | The Anniversary Issue

Mohit Gujral

DLF Promenade’s beautiful curved stone façade stands out against the Vasant Kunj landscape. It’s architect, Mohit Gujral, tells us about the design elements which make it a trendy destination for people in Delhi

he imposing structure of DLF Promenade, with its front curved façade and the semi-circle dome is visible from a rather long distance as you drive past Vasant Kunj, a fact that makes this premier shopping destination an architectural landmark in a city that’s ever-evolving. No wonder then that DLF Promenade won the RK Kabel-Society Interiors Building Design Award 2011 for the Best Retail Mall Building Design. Designed by eminent architect Mohit Gujral, the magnificent mall sprawls over a total built-up area of 4.5 lakh square feet, on the ground, upper and first levels. While the ground and first levels are for stores and restaurants, the second level is dedicated to entertainment and holds DT Cinemas, the multiplex that offers excellent movie watching experience. “There were certain set urban control rules we had to follow while designing the mall,” says Gujral. “Within those parameters, we interpreted the mall in our own way. The multiplex and the food court are the core anchors.” The mall, a classic stone structure, is clad in sand-coloured raw silk granite. “The material palette inside the mall is a combination of marble and granite,” he adds. The extensive food court is designed as an entry point to the multiplexes as it helps create footfalls for them. Light streams into this area through a giant skylight, and the natural environment with palm trees makes it an ideal space for spending the day. Catch a movie, lounge in one of its cafes and then head for a meal. The dramatic DLF Promenade mall structure is offset by The Hub, the incredibly clever outdoor space that hosts restaurants and a corner that is used by live bands for performances, or for cricket matches and other events. “It has space for large projector televisions, which can completely transform the space when an event, a match or a concert is on,” says the architect. Gujral and his team of architects and designers have looked into the most minute details that makes spending time at the mall such a pleasurable experience — from broad signage that makes it easy for people to access spaces, to a beautiful lobby at not just the entrance level but even the basement level, where you park your car, to façade control where stores are concerned. “While internally, the stores are free to design their spaces according to their plans, there is a certain uniformity to the façade and the way the stores look from the outside,” says Gujral. DLF Promenade offers an array of unique experiences that seamlessly unify shopping, entertainment and eating out.

Applause

Over the past three years, we have won several awards. Here are a few

Celebrating the

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Successes RK Kabel-Society Interiors Building Design Award 2011 for the Best Retail Mall Building Design

DLF Best Mall of the Year Award, 2010-2011, given by the DLF Management

The ISCA 11 Images Shopping Centre Award for being the Most Admired Shopping Centre of the Year, Marketing and Promotions

The Personal Shopper By Mahima Shukla

Your very own

Not sure whether those lovely highwaisted pants will look good on you? Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know whether pretty pink, which you see all around you, is really your colour? Personal shoppers are at hand to help with their expert advice and their views on fashion

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Stylist

elhi has always been a shopping destination. Trousseau shoppers from all over India and non-resident Indian brides, harried corporate executives, students, professionals wanting to make the best impression, all flock to the city for an image makeover. It is no surprise that the paucity of time and the need to turn to someone who knows their way through the maze of matching what is on offer to what is needed, has made personal shoppers really crucial to the shopping well-being of many.

“We research the shops for clients based on the budget, style analysis and lifestyle. We are professionals and experts on women’s and men’s style and will know exactly where to shop to suit you and your budget,” says the RMV duo. Contrary to popular opinion, a personal shopper is not going to turn you into a fashion victim. Hansraj says that he ensures that the person is emphasised in personal shopping. “My idea of couture is not painstaking, it should be effortless and make you look and feel like a million bucks. I don’t follow any particular catwalk trends when I’m styling my clients. I work around her personality and pick up pieces which are timeless,” he says.

That personal shoppers are in the business because they love to shop is true, of course. But scratch the surface of the happy shopper and you often find a seasoned professional who has taken pains to ensure that skill matches aptitude. Surabhi Gandhi started her eponymous company in 2006 after she graduated from NIFT, New Delhi. After styling editorial shoots for magazines including Cosmopolitan, Femina, Design Today and Good Housekeeping, she matched qualification to experience. Having started personal styling for trousseau in 2007, she took a break in 2008 to complete a Masters degree in styling from Milan, Italy. Once back in India, she returned to her love of styling in 2009. One of the biggest shopping occasions being a wedding, personal shoppers’ intervention means that creating an all-new wardrobe for an all-new life gets the attention it deserves. Personal shoppers say that sometimes the bride is not even present for the shopping. It is not unusual for an NRI bride wanting to source the latest, trendiest pieces at better price points from India, even when she cannot visit. That’s where personal shoppers come in. Amit Hansraj’s repertoire ranges from styling various ad campaigns, contributing to magazines, and styling Femina Miss India contestants for their international pageants. His client list includes cinema heavy-weights such as Vidya Balan, Tabu, Rani Mukherji, Prachi Desai, Ameesha Patel and Mugdha Godse. He also collaborates with designers such as Malini Ramani and Anju Modi to style their shoots and fashion week shows.

Body image

Getty Images

His personal shopping clients benefit from all the accumulated experience. “I specialise in wedding/ trousseau styling, where we take care of the entire experience, from jewellery to clothes, to finding the right make-up artist,” he says. Many brides in India reference their style to a movie. The more established a personal shopper, the more confidence he brings to the table. “The most common request we get from clients, especially for weddings, is to look like Aishwarya Rai in Jodha Akbar or in Devdas. I used to get a lot of enquiries for that, but now that I am more established my clients trust my choice and usually agree to go with my suggestions,” he says.

Not just an elite service

Time was when women jostled with each other to get their hands on the coveted Kelly bag or to be the first buyer of a Clinique or a La Prairie limited edition cream. They spent hours understanding the right fit and make of every little piece in their wardrobe. However, now, people mix

We take care of the entire experience from jewellery to clothes, to finding the right make-up artist

Amit Hansraj

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Brides in capable hands

and match luxury brands with high street brands such as Tommy Hilfiger, Calvin Klein, FCUK, Zara or Mango, which are equally chic and trendy. Personal shoppers at malls ensure that shopping remains focused and fun. Revive My Vibe (RMV) is a personal styling and image consultancy company that was conceived by two friends, Shazia Aggarwal and Divisha Maroli. “When we started RMV, people thought personal shopping only existed for the elite, celebrities and models,” says Maroli. Both turned their passion for styling and shopping into a career. “RMV brings together our individual skills. It is also a perfect outlet for our shopaholic tendencies. However, we didn’t want to go down the beaten path and join the expanding herd of fashion stylists. It took time for us to break into this industry and show people that looking good doesn’t have to come at a fat price. Our need to make a difference was the motivation behind focusing on the aam admi,” they say. Their clients include business executives, socialites, housewives, students and professionals such as doctors and cinematographers. Some are looking to overhaul and renew their entire wardrobe, while others are looking for fewer pieces to refresh their existing wardrobe. “Some hire us to create a look and pick outfits for special occasions. A few have also gifted our services to loved ones on their birthdays and anniversaries or weddings,” they say. Gifting a consultation with a personal shopper can be a boon for many with body image issues. Ensuring that clients are at ease is one of the first battles for a personal shopper. “Many have a fear of looking fat,” says Gandhi. Easing them into a personal style and battling their discomfort with major changes is her success mantra. A personal stylist/shopper provides practical, constructive advice and guidance on how to accentuate one’s assets and downplay any problem areas, saving time and money, and making shopping more enjoyable.

In an era of image management, how one looks greatly impacts how people feel about themselves, therefore looking good can work wonders on peoples’ state of mind and confidence. Not everybody has the advantage of airbrushed images and a staff dedicated to GettyImages making them look good. Personal shopping is now accessible to those who need rather than only those who can afford it. For many a first time shopper with a guide, personal shopping is a whole new experience; it is effortless and fun to end up with all new clothes needed for the season or just a few pieces to go with the garments already in the closet. “We customise our services based on each client’s needs and preferences. We also believe in quality buys and those are not Surabhi Gandhi necessarily found only in designer +91 98108 43244 outlets. We are also flexible to surgandhi@gmail.com what the client requires; if need be, we could mix street fashion Amit Hansraj along with designer duds and +91 98732 28801 make anyone look fabulous,” RMV says. Revive My Vibe The trend is here to stay. revivemyvibe.com As Gandhi says: “You are enquiry@revivemyvibe.com never wrong. You just need +91 98207 68851 improvement. That’s the first and +91 99200 52111 last rule of personal shopping!”

ntacts

A shopping expedition with a personal shopper can cost `2,500 to `20,000, depending on whether he or she works with celebrities. DLF Promenade would love to fix an appointment for you with a personal shopper at your budget to make your shopping experience at the mall even more enjoyable. Call the Concierge Desk at 011- 46104466 to avail the service.

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Divisha Maroli

A few have also gifted our services to loved ones on their birthdays, anniversaries and weddings

Shazia aggarwal

When we started RMV, people thought personal shopping only existed for the elite, celebrities and models

Nature-inspired By Saisha Suri

From leopards to giraffes, owls and peacocks, fashion is riding high on an urban safari Aldo’s Kovalcin

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Zara

Manish Arora

Swarovski’s Philippa brooch

Guess

he popularity of the animal print has inspired everything animal-shaped. From brooches to neckpieces, coin purses to evening bags, the animal inspiration has had an interesting effect on fashion. Turning to the wild helps give a piece of accessory an edgy inspiration. Leopards, pandas, wolves and giraffes prowled the catwalks around the world, adding a light-hearted playfulness to the season. Tigers lurked on knits, while naughty monkeys cavorted across loose tops and dresses. Wearing animal prints or accessories with animal motifs, however, takes a bit of work. There are ways to transform this very tricky trend into easy chic and not look like you are covered head-to-toe in a critter. When it comes to clothes, animal motifs never seem to fall completely out of favour, but they’re riding a new wave of popularity. Be it exotic animal prints such as leopard or zebra, bird motifs and more, there are several options. For chic designs for day wear, head to Marks & Spencer which has a wide range of trousers and tops. If you don’t want to go all out on this trend, take a look at Promod, bebe and Zara, which offer classic and old school designs like sparrows, owls and monkey-motif cardigans, which are perfect for spring. For a touch of the wild in your bedroom, the lingerie at La Senza will definitely catch your eye. They also have cute PJs and slippers for girls who like quirky fashion. If your heart doesn’t beat for such bold clothes, try accessorising, the easiest way to stay in tune with fashion’s latest love. If you want to go traditional then Karigari, a jewellery brand, is a great option with some dazzling peacock-inspired designs. For young girls, Claire’s stocks some amazing accessories. Animal print merchandise at Bijoux Terner is worth a look too. Bugs and reptiles have it real good as they’ve opened avenues of inspiration in accessories that offer an easy-to-wear alternative to this trend. From mesmerising colour palettes to intricate form and structure, snake bracelets with their elaborate designs and craftsmanship are gracing the hands of most fashionable people around. Many Bollywood divas have been spotted wearing animal-inspired accessories.

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Karigari

It’s a wild

Nature-inspired

Add animalinspired watches and bejewelled handbags or clutches to your wardrobe

Satya Paul

However, if the reptile fever is not your thing, you can always make a statement with other striking animal accessories. Indian and international high-street brands such as Swarovski, Promod and Aldo have some of the most adorable creatures such as owls, dragonflies and frogs, which you can wear on your wrist, hang around your neck or on your ears. Another noticeable trend in accessories is feathers. Besides accessories, another way to bring this trend into your wardrobe is by incorporating animal-inspired watches and bejewelled handbags/clutches. Faux leatherette bags and cases with leopard, python and zebra patterns will make you go weak in the knees. Bird motifs are also quickly taking over handbag fashion. If you have a footwear fetish, then youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d definitely want to own the animal print booties, mousy flats, python stilettos and more. Again Aldo, Charles & Keith, Promod and Zara have some of the best buys. These statement pieces are not only fashionable, but will also transform your look from chic to ultra glam. Animals are also making their way into home dĂŠcor. Interior designers across the globe are using animal and bird motifs to create interesting ambience for homes, offices, restaurants/ lounges and bars. Much like pets do in our day-to-day life, animals add fun and flair to a wardrobe. Embrace your wilder side this season and get bitten by fashionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s love affair with animals.

How to wear it Though we did ask you to step away from minimalism, we still believe in balancing it out. Animal prints and motifs are intimidating, so it is important that you include just one piece in your look. It can be anything, from a bold tee to an edgy dress, a statement cuff, a neckpiece, or even footwear or a bag. The idea is to weave the look around that one piece.

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Satya Paul

Facial By Saisha Suri

Get that

Glow Y

our daily skincare routine might involve the religious cleansing, toning and mosturising process but a foolproof plan is to get a fabulous facial. We look at a couple of interesting facial options that would soon end up becoming de rigueur.

Therapy for your face

Corbis

If soft, supple and fresh skin has always been on your wishlist, opt for a customised beauty package offered by one of the various skin clinics or salons. Spas at DLF Promenade are the forerunners of this trend. Kaya Skin Clinic has introduced a unique offering — Kaya Signature Face Therapy — designed by dermatologists, who combine the best of science and nature to give you instant soft, smooth and brighter skin. The face therapy offered are of three kinds — Ultra Rejuve, Ultra Detox and Ultra Youth, customised to suit different skin types. Talking more

about this unique skincare therapy, Dr Sangeeta Amladi, Head Medical Services, Kaya Skin Clinic, says, “With Kaya Signature Face Therapy, we are offering our clients an advanced therapeutic service that offers instant skincare results and pampers your skin.” Each service is a four-step process that uses the best of science and nature for proper exfoliation and deep infusion of natural brightening ingredients like pure vitamin C, liquorice and arbutin (Mulberry extract). This is followed by an exotic massage with the goodness of natural essential oil-based creams and enriching face masks to pamper the skin and uplift one’s mood. Aroma Thai’s Face Refreshers are a blend of 60-minute massages and facials that brighten, hydrate and nourish the face, stimulate the skin and fight ageing. Their skin balancing and anti-ageing massages are pretty popular. Traditional Thai massages can relax, rejuvenate and refresh a person completely.

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Looking at rejuvenating that tender-looking skin after the harsh winters? We get you exotic options that will leave your skin feeling like silk

Facial

Corbis

Ultra Rejuve: With mood elevating pure cocoa, this face therapy is designed to bring the much needed freshness to tired and dull skin.

Ultra Detox: A specially designed service that reduces the effect of pollution and stress on the skin. It also helps to detoxify the skin and relax the senses.

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Ultra Youth: Dead cells, dehydration and clogged pores are responsible for adding age to your skin. This therapy helps to stimulate collagen and elasticity in the skin, reduces signs of ageing by using ingredients like rose, geranium oil and vitamin C. Veggie delight: If you promote vegetarianism then getting an exotic fruit or a veggie facial is the most apt for you. Most salons and spas have realised that natural fresh fruit and veggie facials offer better results than the synthetic extract-claiming products. It is just like in any other kind of facial which starts with cleansing the face followed by steam, scrub, a light massage and ending it with a mask. Products used are natural, fresh and healthy. While papaya, aloe vera, pineapple, banana, cucumber, orange and apple are the best-sellers, other exotic fruits like kiwi, strawberry, avocado and guava are also quite a hit for those looking for a fruit-based facial.

Hydrating facial

Urs Hoffmann, Spa Manager, The Spa at The Aman Hotel, New Delhi recommends a hydrating facial, done with aloe vera-based products, for girls with very dry skin or those with a tendency to wrinkle early. It helps restore the natural PH balance of the skin.

Most salons and spas have realised that natural fresh fruit and veggie facials offer better results than the synthetic extracts Now gemstones are a girl’s best friend! The century old adage — diamonds are a girl’s best friend — got a new twist when VLCC launched their Gemstone Facial Therapy. This therapy has been designed keeping in mind current and coming seasonal variations. Based on the profound healing energy of gemstones and purity of natural ingredients, the VLCC Gemstone Facial Therapy not just gives you a flawless but also a younger and revitalised looking skin. Says Vandana Luthra, founder and mentor of VLCC, “Gemstone therapy is the art and science of using therapeutic-quality gemstone to harmonise, vitalise, and balance your energies to help you feel better and enjoy your life more.” Some of the dazzling gemstones on offer include amber, onyx, ruby, aquamarine, pink tourmaline, emerald and yellow sapphire. Raise a toast to glowing skin: If you envy Cleopatra for her royal milk baths, you can now give her a run for her beauty treatments. This season, go decadent with an exotic wine facial. If wine makes for a heady experience, it makes for an even better exotic facial ingredient. A wine facial is very effective in eliminating dead cells and in enhancing blood circulation.

An even more sinful indulgence is the Choco-Wine facial at VLCC. The first round of the facial is replete with red wine, mixed with cucumber juice, lemon juice, milk, shea butter and aloe vera. It’s followed by a facial done with coffee seeds, milk, coco powder and revital, a skin vitality serum. Rich in vitamins and anti-oxidants, the combination of wine and chocolate cleanses the skin and tones its texture.

The Right Rituals: What your skin looks like will depend you how you cleanse it, the rituals you follow and the products you use. Forest Essentials has an advanced Soundarya age defying facial serum which should be used after you’ve cleansed your face. Its Revitalising Kashmiri Walnut Gel scrub and Pure Aloe Vera Light Moisturising Facial Gel helps hydrate the skin. Lancome’s whitening ritual for cloud-free, spotless, purely transparent skin has a lasting effect on the skin. With a potent skin-repairing blend of Immortelle Essential Oil and Daisy Extract, L’occitane’s Immortelle Brightening regimen kick-starts collagen production and combats hyper-pigmentation for a protected and glowing complexion. This packet contains two samples: a brightening cream and a mask.

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Indulge in

People

By Kriti Sharma

Conversations

hen we first saw her in Dev.D, her unconventional looks, striking personality, girlish innocence and the ease with which this actress of French descent spoke Hindi and Tamil, wooed us. Since her debut release, Kalki Koechlin hasn’t played safe in Bollywood, defying tried-and-tested formulas to success. Whether it was the modern avatar of Chandramukhi as Chanda, the rebellious Amy of Shaitan or the nagging girlfriend in Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara, she has played each role with ease and perfection. She is convincing, understated and real — qualities which make her stand apart from her contemporaries. This adorable and gifted enigma is off-beat and experimental even in her dressing style, but always believes in wearing her personality. Add to that her bee-stung lips and trademark contagious grin, and it’s a recipe for winning fans. Excerpts from an interview.

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Kalki Koechlin is a combination of élan and chutzpah. She talks about movies, her marriage with director-producer, Anurag Kashyap, her experiences in Delhi and her unique sense of style

People Tell us something about your upcoming film Shanghai. Shanghai is a political thriller, directed by Dibakar Banerjee. I am playing the role of Shalini, who gets involved in a political mess. There is a quirkiness that we associate with the kind of films Dibakar Banerjee has made. Does Shanghai have a similar flavour? The story is very different from his earlier films and depicts modernday India and its problems, such as corruption. Dibakar’s quirks come across through his wit and humour that the film carries and the style of shooting, which is quite raw. Anurag Kashyap directed your first film, Dev.D. Later, you also worked together in That Girl In Yellow Boots. From working with him, to being his life partner, what is it like? It gets very intense at times. When we shot for That Girl In Yellow Boots, our life was on hold. We used to hardly talk to avoid fighting. You know,

Shots from the film Dev.D

For years, we have been telling the same stories. If we have to make them different, we have to be creative. We have to find new ways of telling old stories

How do you balance both your professional and personal life with him? Well, it’s quite easy. Most of the time we are not together and are busy doing separate films. And it is the distance that brings us even closer because we are longing to meet. When we get back we are all loveydovey and happy. When we meet, we don’t bother each other with work because it’s our time and it’s more personal. We are a normal couple. What do you think of Delhi as a city? I love Delhi and I keep going there. I have shot there for Dev.D and just love the food — mutton biryani, golgappas, momos — there is so much that I go crazy. And there is a lot of space in Delhi, which seems like a luxury in Mumbai. It’s not claustrophobic. I envy my friends who have big homes there.

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it’s different when you work with someone and get back home with that same guy. But we are lucky to have a good balance in our lives. Both of us have our own work and we manage it quite well.

People was very bad at it. So, they gave me the script in English. They liked my audition so much that I got a call within 20 minutes of leaving that place. How important is creativity while making a film? Do you think it becomes necessary at times to compromise on it to become commercially successful? I am a workaholic. When I get on my films, I do workshops with my co-actors, I ask the director to give me books to read and movies to watch. I do a lot of homework. And this is how you can be creative in your work. For years, we have been telling the same stories. If we have to make them different, we have to be creative. We have to find new ways of telling old stories. I don’t think it is necessary to compromise on creativity for commercial success. Look at what Zoya Akhtar did with Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara. She hasn’t compromised on creativity; it is a very genuine film and a big success. Sadly, some people are obsessed with making a hit. They are picking stuff from different films and it all looks like a patchwork. You need to be genuine to the story. Your film can be a commercial success and yet be creative.

How was the experience of shooting in Delhi for Dev.D? It was fun. We were in Paharganj, which is not the best place to be in town, so the crowd was a bit of a problem, specially, with Abhay Deol. But at the end of it all, it was a great experience. In the morning we were served yummy hot aloo parathas. That was the best part.

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How would you define Delhi’s fashion and style quotient? There is a mixture of various styles. There are those party-going people, then the desi ones and also the arty kinds. Fashion is very much alive and there are a lot of good designers. I do think that people stick to their styles and don’t experiment much. Tell us something about your life before Bollywood happened. I was born in Pondicherry and later went to Ooty for my studies. I was there from the age of six to 18, so I am very much a south Indian in white skin (laughs). After that, I went to the University of London to study theatre. Then, I was doing theatre in Mumbai when I got a call for Dev.D’s audition. While in London as a student, I had to take up several jobs to fend for myself, as I was living on my own. I worked as a waitress, taught drama to kids, worked in a bar and even sold popcorns in a cinema hall. But the university helped me mature. When you went to the University of London to study theatre, did you know that you would take it up as a career? That was the first time I took theatre seriously. I always loved theatre

and knew I was passionate about it, but had not thought of it as a career. In London, I not only did acting but also wrote scripts and designed sets. I love doing work that is creative. What made you come back from London to do theatre in India? I missed home badly. London was great for theatre but I never felt at home there. Everybody is very individualistic. For instance, you don’t share your lunch with anybody and you can’t just drop into somebody’s house. I missed the sunshine too. Also, it was extremely expensive and I was finding it a bit difficult to make ends meet, and theatre doesn’t pay you much.

Bollywood has been setting fashion trends, which people madly follow, whether it is apparel, hairstyle or even, at times, the complete look. How about taking up a role which makes you a fashion icon? I think I can make a style icon in real life. If there is a biopic on, say,Twiggy, then it would be interesting. I won’t do a film just to become a fashion icon; it has to be about the life of that person.

How do you find the theatre scene in Delhi? It’s quite good. There are a lot of good directors, brilliant actors and creative people in Delhi. It is more active than the theatre scene in Mumbai.

How has acting transformed you as a person? Acting is therapy. When you are trying to find emotions, you get the demons out of yourself. When I played Amy in Shaitan, she was a completely different person than who I am in real life. So I had to find moments in my life which had disturbed me. It’s like digging up your past. And when I was done playing that role, I felt as if a big load was lifted off my shoulders. Acting has also helped me understand people and I am always observing things.

How did Bollywood happen? It happened by chance. I was doing theatre in Mumbai and wasn’t earning much money. I had to do other things like advertisements and modelling. I had sent my portfolio to various production houses and I used to get calls, but they were all for that kind of roles where white -skinned girls are dancing somewhere in the background. I told them, “I can’t dance!” Dev.D was the first film where I was offered an acting role. When I went for the audition, I realised that the script was in Hindi and I

Your family has a French lineage and is a devotee of Sri Aurobindo. What is your take on life, religion and politics? I am not religious (in the conservative sense of the word). I don’t believe in one religion. Instead, I firmly believe that everyone has to find his or her own path. I believe in questioning everything. One should trust oneself. I also feel that since I have never been in somebody else’s shoes, I have no right to judge that person. I think it’s important to mind one’s own business and improve one’s own self.

Her style statements Personal style: Wears her personality/ mood — from being sloppy in jeans and a t-shirt, to dressy chic for a party, to donning a gown for the red carpet Evening wear: A pair of skinny jeans with a funky top, a leather jacket and fedora hat Day look: A loose cotton dress with Bohemian prints Favourite brands: Mango, Promod, H&M and Topshop Most fashionable city in India: Kolkata — I love the way people mix western and eastern styles Most fashionable city abroad: New York — a mix of culture and extreme fashion sense Dressing style: Experimental Style Icon: Gwen Stefani for her funky style and Charlotte Gainsbourg for her understated yet cool looks

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Apart from acting, you also wrote the script for That Girl In Yellow Boots along with Kashyap. How did that happen? Anurag had read about a German girl searching for her father in some newspaper. And he wanted to make a film on that. It was long back, much before we met. When we got to know each other, he asked me if I would do the film. I found it difficult but he insisted since I was jobless at that time. He asked me to try writing, so at least I could make some money out of it. He also wanted a woman’s take on the story and insisted that I write the dialogues.

Last big purchase: A clutch from Todd Accessories: Funky and ethnic jewellery, hats, colourful Kolhapuri chappals and stilettos Shopper: Impulse buyer

Attire

By Akanksha Banerjee

oring pantsuits, clichéd pencil skirts and unflattering striped shirts are all hallmarks of a boring work wardrobe. It is horrifyingly easy to fall into a nine-to-five fashion trap. While there are many options to create a casual day look and glamorise night fashion, the choices available to make your work-wear interesting are very limited. Given that we spend at least one-third of our lives at work, why not look stylish at work? Here are some ways in which you can experiment with your look, while you’re climbing high up the corporate ladder.

A dash of colour

Esprit

You can grab attention with one divine shot of colour in your outfit. And it need not be shocking neon; it can be a beautiful turquoise, a lovely tangerine or a berry red. When it comes to work-wear, God lies in details. You can wear an off-white dress with an orange trim, which looks subtle and super-chic. Wear a purple camisole with your grey power suit. Turn-around a neutral look with a cherry crimson bag. Whether you are a banking head honcho or a media magnet, an advertising maverick or a marketing head, adding colour to an otherwise tame outfit can work magic. There are options available — check out Punk for colours in apparel and lifestyle products, Steve Madden for shoes and boots that can add a spring to your step, and Lacoste for colours that add individuality without breaking any rules.

One of the best silhouettes is the wrap dress. Some call it the ultimate saviour from dull work-wear. By virtue of its drape, the dress flatters most figure types to create a cinched waist and an hour-glass shape. A navy wrap dress with a broad tan belt can do wonders for your figure. The wrap dress is the LBD in an office zone. Another garment that can add structure to your silhouette is a jacket. Jackets that look sleek and smart are great investments. Combine them with a dress and you are certainly dressed for success. For women, bebe has goddess-like dresses that hug beautifully. They can be worn in office with jackets and scarves. For men who want a slim-fitted, razor-sharp look, ColorPlus, Van Heusen and Zara Man are the brands to go to, with their range of stylish jackets and shirts.

Coordinate separates

in the boardroom

Ditch the matched pantsuit or the skirt-suit and create your own combinations. Also, with permutations and combinations you end up having a lot more options in the same amount of pieces. Wear your pastel blue pants with a tan-coloured blazer to liven up a boring day. Chuck the black jacket and wear your pencil skirt with a Chinese collared top. Belt up a Fabindia kurti and wear it with tights and clog heels. Marks & Spencer is your best bet for well-fitted basics, and you can go to Zara and s.Oliver for gorgeous separates. Gentlemen, head to Boggi Milano for that man-about-town look.

Work-wear style need not induce boredom. Here is how to make it look interesting and give it a smart edge

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Giovani

Flattering silhouettes

Boggi Milano

Tie Rack

French Connection

s.Oliver Zara

Channel androgyny

This one is exclusively for women. Think an all-grey power suit with a crisp white shirt, a navy belt completed with a tie. Wear a waistcoat with your dress. Androgyny is a look that speaks volumes while retaining a corporate feel. French Connection has stunning power dresses and structured jackets. The best brands to shop for this look are Van Heusen and Giovanni.

Accessorise right

Add interest by way of accessories. The right accessories can jazz up any look and the wrong ones can dull it. You can add a stylish edge to a staid shift dress by adding a fringed scarf. A statement necklace is by far the easiest way to dress up a simple dress or a jumpsuit. Interesting elements in clothes also help; such as a Peter Pan collar, bishop sleeves or a tasselled hemline. For men, great gold cufflinks add a tasteful Parisian touch to your outfit. Experimentation can work wonders with patterned ties, bow-ties and waistbands.

s.Oliver

A lot of us tend to ignore make-up at office, an extremely crucial factor if you’re dressing for success. Wear red lipstick with a black and white dress for a graphic feel. Highlight your cheekbones to chisel your face. Hide all spots and blemishes and under-eye bags with a good concealer. Look at brands like M.A.C. and Lancôme For men, grooming is great when it is about being clean shaven, not smelly and unkempt.

Nine

Play with textures

It is very tempting to wear styles directly off the runway. It can look fabulous if done the right way. So you love Gucci’s colour-blocking trend and can’t wait to wear orange, green and purple — all together. What you could do is make your own colour-clocked outfit — but with pastels. Think baby pink, camel and powder blue. This helps you work the trend and not look out of place. You can’t wait to slip into a sheer sundress. Well, acceptable for the beach but would create a scandal at work. Instead, pick out a long sleeved diaphanous dress and wear a slip inside it so you are covered but the look is deliciously suggestive. Transparent parts will look much nicer than an overall sheer look. If you’ve a thing for exotic prints, carry a scarf in a wild animal print rather than wearing a distracting dress. Choose your trend, then work it out within the realms of your office wardrobe. High-street brands like Zara, Chemistry, Mango, bebe and Promod have all the trends straight from the catwalk translated into more wearable clothes.

Good heels can make or break your outfit. And it is not a good idea to wear flip-flops or sandals to work, not unless you’re a lifeguard at the beach. Ballerina flats are a sensible choice and go well with most outfits. While you don’t want to walk teetering on stilt-like heels, markets are flooded with good-support heels such as wedges and clogs that are comfortable and look awesome. Clarks and Steve Madden have a variety of options but if you’re looking for a one-stop destination to fulfil all your heel needs, Aldo is the brand to head to.

Know your company codes

Silk, satin, georgette, linen, corduroy, plaids, tweeds — make an eclectic mishmash of textures for work dressing. Don’t shy away from appliqué work or patchwork. For instance, try on a lovely beige knit dress with smattering streaks of gold. Sharpen up a cotton top by pairing it with fitted waxed bottoms. And remember, a

Tone down the ramp trends

Be well-heeled

Go from cubicle to cocktails

Van Heusen

Mango

hint of shimmer is totally acceptable. Mix earthy textures like that of Fabindia with glossy textures like Zara and FCUK. You can find great knits in Mango and Promod. Gentlemen, wear your jackets and cardigans in attractive textured fabrics.

Wake-up to make-up

Try to wear clothes that can transform seamlessly from day to night with a change in accessories. A winecoloured top and a high-waist skirt can be worn with a blazer to office. In the evenings, you can get rid of the blazer, add some bling accessories and strappy heels, and you’re ready to take on the clubs. Working women need clothes that multitask like they do.

Boggi Milano

When it comes to work-wear, details are everything. You can wear an off-white dress with an orange trim, which looks subtle and super-chic. Wear a purple camisole with your grey power suit

s.Oliver

Satya Paul Mango

Mango

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French Connection

It is very important to know your company culture and dress accordingly. You can work a lot within the rules but not completely break them. If you’re a lawyer, red might not be an appropriate colour in the court but if you’re a designer, then it is all about self-expression. s.Oliver

At the Table

From sushi to California rolls, salted roe to Tarako Spaghetti, or even an all-vegetarian platter, Japanese cuisine has been contemporarised by modern-day chefs to suit every palate

ention Japanese food and out roll names such as sushi, sashimi and tempura. Add to it the popular California rolls, Miso soup and the Tarako spaghetti, and you have a slice of Japan served in every corner of the world. “The Japanese have taken their cuisine to a totally different level. The adaptability of the cuisine is excellent. The Miso soup, California rolls and sushi are clear examples of the way it has been adapted to other cuisine,” states Michael Swamy, Mumbai-based chef, food stylist and writer. Rightly so. You are likely to find a bit of Japan in most countries across the world, and sushi, the most common dish. At Izakaya, the Japanese-style informal dining restaurant at DLF Promenade, you will be served modern-day dishes like the California Roll and Chicken Cheese Cutlet. “The California Roll or the sushi roll originated in the USA and the cutlet comes from France,” informs chef Teppei Muraoka, Izakaya.

dishes. For instance, wasabi which is used in sushi and sashimi or Kiyuzu, a yellow citrus fruit used to flavour fish dishes. “Japanese dishes use varied cooking techniques — from fresh, raw, grills, to simmering and roasting,” says Cheng. A fact Muraoka corroborates. “We have the best skills for maintaining the freshness of food and we often eat food raw, without heating.” Anyone who visits the world-famous Tsukiji Fish Market in Tokyo will not just vouch for this fact, but also swear by the sheer variety of seafood on offer. Such is the repute of Japanese cuisine that the Michelin Guide Tokyo Yokohama Shonan 2012 has declared the city as the epicentre of gourmet dining, beating old-favourite Paris. Tokyo has 17 Michelin threestarred restaurants, which is more than any city on the planet. What’s more, 15 of these starred restaurants serve Japanese cuisine. While sushi is the most popular and highly evolved Japanese dish, there is more to Japanese cuisine that makes it easy to adapt to local tastes. For instance, in India, popular Japanese dishes include okonomiyaki (savoury pancake), Japanese curry and Teriyaki skewers (both chicken and vegetables), besides cooking ingredients like wasabi, Kikkoman soy sauce, gari (vinegared ginger), Japanese vinegar, Japanese mayonnaise, green tea, Teriyaki sauce, vegetarian miso soup, nori seaweed and sushi, says Cheng.

Corbis

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Japan on a roll

“The popularity is because Japanese food is tasty and also very healthy. The Japanese people have the longest life span in the world, and research has shown that their diet is one of the key drivers to long life and good health,” says Harry Cheng, founder and director, Maido Enterprises Private Limited, an imports company based in Mumbai. A Japanese national, Cheng imports Japanese food, drinks and food ingredients for the increasingly affluent Indian market. His views find credence in a study done by professor Yasuo Kagawa (Jichi Medical School, Tochigi-Ken, Japan) and professor Alexander Leaf (Harvard Medical School, Boston, USA), who found that one of the key reasons for high life expectancy among Japanese was the low cholesterol in their blood. The Japanese diet includes food with very low cholesterol content, which is practically free from the unhealthy saturated fats abundantly present in red meat, dairy produce and butter. Instead, the Japanese diet abounds in seafood: fish, rich in good and healthy polyunsaturated fats, and the seaweeds Kombu and Nori, which contain high amounts of iodine as well as minerals and micro-elements that are both healthy and impart to Japanese food its inimitable flavour. Cheng adds, “We love fresh ingredients. Every season has its own special ingredients. Our biggest joy is eating fresh food, made from the ingredients that are in season.” Japanese food is light and the cuisine showcases the natural ingredients best through a variety of

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By Sujata Dugar

left to right: Izakaya restaurant at DLF Promenade; A Japanese food platter at Izakaya

Corbis

Recipe

California Rolls

California rolls are usually made inside-out, so they are easy to eat. Makes 4 rolls Ingredients Avocado 1 Imitation crab 3/4 cup Mayonnaise 2 tbsp Salt 1/2 tsp Prepared sushi rice 6 cups Nori (dried seaweed) 4 sheets White sesame seeds

Method Peel an avocado and cut it into strips or mash it. Tear the imitation crab into a bowl and season with salt and mayonnaise. Cover a bamboo rolling mat with a plastic wrap. Put a sheet of dried seaweed on top of the mat. Spread a quarter portion of sushi rice on top of the nori sheet. Sprinkle sesame seeds over the sushi rice. Turn the sushi layer over, so that the seaweed is on top. Place avocado and crab horizontally on the seaweed. Roll the bamboo mat forward, pressing the ingredients inside the cylinder-shaped sushi. Press the bamboo mat firmly with hands, and then remove the rolled sushi. Make more rolls. Wipe a knife with a wet cloth before slicing sushi. Cut the sushi roll into bite-size pieces. [Courtesy: About.com]

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To some, Japanese cuisine may seem bland but for its connoisseurs, freshness, presentation and balance of flavours are of paramount importance

The tarako spaghetti, essentially a tasty ‘fish roe pasta’, is very different from any normal Italian spaghetti dish. It is Japanese in the modern context. In the Western countries, contemporary chefs are using soy sauce with steak. Japanese ingredients like the Kikkoman soy sauce enhance the flavour of the steak and Westerners enjoy it so much that it is routinely served in restaurants. In India, certain Japanese dishes have been tweaked to suit the Indian palate. Izakaya has several vegetarian dishes on its heavy seafood and meat-laden menu, especially for its vegetarian guests. Sushi and More, a takeaway Japanese restaurant that opened last year in Mumbai, serves pure vegetarian Jain meal and has sushi made using only vegetables on a mobile sushi conveyer belt. Maido India has devised the menu at the restaurant keeping in mind its south Mumbai location, which is home to a large number of vegetarian Gujarati residents. They have tried to do away with the misnomer that sushi is to be had only with fish. Sushi is the rice and here, at Sushi and More, it is paired with veggies, seafood or even meat. Vegetarians have the option of pairing it with cucumber roll, asparagus, cheese and bell pepper roll, shiitake mushroom tartar roll and Inari sushi (prepared with tofu). In fact, Cheng is also planning to introduce Indians to a ‘Mumbai roll,’ with all the Japanese elements intact. Japanese cuisine has absorbed several influences — from the Koreans who introduced rice to Japan around 400 B.C., the Chinese who showed them the use of soy beans and wheat, to Buddhism which influenced the eating habits and prohibited meat, and in its absence, the importance fish garnered as a staple in the island nation of Japan. Over the years, the fermentation period of sushi has been shortened by the use of vinegar and as a result, sushi has become a popular snack food. Sushi was finally united with sashimi at the end of the 18th century, when the hand-rolled type, nigiri-sushi, was devised. In the 16th century, the Portuguese, followed by the Dutch, began to introduce food that were adopted by the Japanese and later became cultural symbols. Fried food such as the tempura is an example and is an evolved dish, as known in its current avatar. However, even today, Japanese cuisine is heavily influenced by the four seasons and the country’s geography. Seafood and vegetables are most commonly eaten. Whilst to some, the food may seem almost bland but for its connoisseurs, freshness, presentation and balance of flavours is of paramount importance. Anyone who travels to Japan will quickly learn two things: food is serious business, and Japanese cuisine isn’t all about sushi and rice. It’s one platter, that the world loves to make it its own.

Travel

By Lalit Sultan Farzdan Photographs by Lalit Sultan Farzdan

The Glimmering Lights of

Leicester Square once hosted a museum of curiosities, but has now become the party central for the young of the world

The glitzy Casino at the Empire is among the best bars in the world

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ondon on a Saturday night is a very different city. The British â&#x20AC;&#x201D; otherwise under great pressure to be proper â&#x20AC;&#x201D; let their hair down in improbable orgies of excess. They almost compensate for the reserve of the working week with a madness to match the wildest in the world. Streets tremble under this weekend frolic. And nowhere is this reversal more palpable than at Leicester Square. Historically, an entertainment venue, this bit of Londonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s West End has travelled a long way from being the property of the Earl of Leicester to the residence of Fredrick, Prince of Wales, to this Mecca of the young, moneyed and the careless. It is perfect for cinemas, theatres and Soho. On any given weekend, you can spot droves of young people strutting about in impossible heels on the sidewalks, hired limousines whizzing past with their tinted panes reflecting the glimmering lights of the night, burly bouncers pouting in menace, and the fire-jugglers, comic artists, the mermaids and the winged angels, and so many disguises, and so many incidents. By four in the morning, the avenues are littered with burst balloons and all the paraphernalia of celebration. Women, their make-up finally wearing off, wait for taxis to be conveyed home. However, nightlife is not all that is there to the place, though even a lot of Londoners perceive it to be so. Leicester Square is host to two of the largest cinemas in Europe. Odeon and Empire, both stand at

Travel

Fact File

Where to stay The W London The hip, bold and playful W London is the perfect place to stay in. We like its shiny translucent exterior and its modern take on British style, which is on display across the hotel. The W London has 192 studio rooms, in which the dividing line between the living space and the kitchen is blurred. Its in-house restaurant, The Spice Market has three Michelin stars and offers a medley of Asian-inspired dishes.

different parts of the quadrangle, but have been enthralling audiences for many decades now. Odeon had the first digital projector in Europe, and calls out from a distance with its neon and granite facade. It still draws a formidable crowd to catch an old-world viewing experience in its Royal Circle, Real Circle and Stalls. Not far is the Casino at the Empire, which is a 24-hour bar-cumrestaurant. A lot of locals recommend it as a place to just catch up with your friends as the music is in controllable limits, and for once, you can hear your own voice. This is otherwise usually done at a pub in England. Outsiders might be often baffled as to the subtle difference between a pub and a bar and a resto-bar, but to the British, there is no other place to confide in who you trust, but your local pub. The pubs of Leicester Square often stay open till late and play music that might be otherwise heard at a bar. They also serve typical pub fare such as fish n’ chips, bangers and mash (sausages and potatoes), meat pies and sticky toffee pudding — a good bet for those who do not mind chomping food at midnight. Anyway, one always has the kebab vans to rely on. The bars, in turn, are these slightly bourgeois places where hip professionals meet for a casual drink in clothes which are bound to be noticed. If all this gets too much to handle and you are a little perturbed by the rowdiness, all you need to do is walk out and land in Chinatown, another veritable nightly extravaganza. Not merely mainland Chinese

To the British, there is no other place to confide in those you trust, but at the local pub

cuisine, but food from various parts of the world is offered as part of an endless palate of possibilities. The gluttons may die of abuse. Chinatown tends to merge somewhere with Soho — while being a part of it — another quarter with an infamous reputation for radicalism. In lifestyle, not ideology, that is. Don’t be scandalised if a madam or a queen walks up to you, offering women from various parts of the world. Don’t be tempted to think that this is a world purely for adults. Families throng to Leicester Square for the various games and joy rides that are often offered around the small park in the middle. Various street performers make it an enjoyable venue for people of all leanings and ages.

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Cinemas Odeon: odeon.co.uk Empire: empirecinemas.co.uk The Casino at the Empire Phone: +44 (0) 203 014 1000 Website: thecasinolsq.com On facebook The-Casino-at-The-Empire/296822998496

top: The various sights on Leicester Square — from the bars and the clubs to the chic cafes, which are popular with the locals and the tourists

Skincare By Mahima Shukla

For a fair skin like Kareena Kapoor’s, experiment with shades of pink, blue, peach and cream

Fair with a hint of duskiness

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for your skin tone

Are you wary of vivid blues, luscious reds or pale pinks? We speak to three professionals for a lowdown on how to perfectly pick products suitable for different skin tones

F Fair

air, very fair and dusky may be just shades away from each other, but when it comes to make-up and colours that work with these skin tones, there is a world of difference. Depending on where you are on the shade card, browns, pinks or oranges may be perfect on your skin.

Komal Gulati, hair and make-up designer, counts among the most highprofile choices for brides in New Delhi. She recommends shades of pink, blue, peach and cream for the fairer lot, since most shades from this

For those leaning towards duskiness, what is known as “wheatish” in matrimonial descriptions, Gulati recommends peaches, beiges and browns to enhance colouring. Sarin also sticks to beiges and browns, but recommends adding certain shades from the pink family. “Neutral shades of beige and brown work well on the lips, but on the cheeks certain deeper matte shades of pink and apricot tones can also work well,” she says. In search of a pink? Get hold of Maybelline’s Pink Petal in its Colour Sensational collection. To add drama, go with smoky eye colours such as brown, black and navy blue. Glamour can be added, she says, by, “Warm metallic shades in the gold and bronze family on the eyes and cheeks.” Inglot offers a great collection to get the smoky eyes effect. There are even tutorials online on getting this look with Inglot eye make-up. Applying a good primer before the foundation works wonders on this skin, making it look very fresh.

For those with truly dusky or dark skin tones, not shying away from colours such as deep burgundy, orange and gold is important. Dusky girls often feel like they should only use bland colours, but jewel tones can really work for them. Kapoor says: “Dark skins could use warmer tones like mango, gold and bronzes to make them look vibrant.” Maybelline’s Vivid & Smooth collection of eyeliners has a gold option that will make your eyes dazzle. If you’re feeling experimental enough to try jewel tones, other options available in the same collection include Olive, Violet Pearl, Ocean Blue and Forest Green. There is consensus from the professionals on this point. Sarin adds: “Dark skinned beauties should keep deep reds, burgundies and very clear shiny metallic glosses close for their lips.” For those glamorous times, she recommends dark kohl-rimmed eyes set off with a hint of smokiness in shades of deep blacks and deep metallic greens. To complete the look, she says: “For the cheeks, deep apricot and matt beiges work well. Any metallic lotion or cream with gold and bronze tones will work.”

family work with fair skins. Take your pick from M.A.C’s Miss Piggy Pink, Blue Candy or Atlantic Blue eyeshadow. If you’re looking for cream, try M.A.C’s White Type and Forgery. Bridal make-up artist Dipali Sarin says that most colour combinations work well with fair skin colour. She recommends: “Shades of pink and peach on cheeks, lips and eyes.” Shimmer Rose Douceur by Lancome can give a fair-skinned face just the definition that it needs. The look for day may be different for different skin tones. Ashish Kapoor, an independent artist who teaches make-up techniques at Pearl Academy, says, “For fair skin, muted shades of nude work well. One M.A.C Fresh Ice Mineralize Eyeshadow

Dusky

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should also try dark smoky eyes, or dark lips for fashion-forward looks.” Sarin recommends experimenting with a cool colour palette, which includes colours such as blue, violet, shades of green and silver tones of glitter for creating dramatic eyes. “Fresh coral glossy lips, which are very trendy this season, will work very well for them,” she says. If you’re looking to ace this fresh coral look, try Lancome’s Miss Coquelicot — Bright Coral.

This collection from Lancome is perfect for fair skin

M.A.C’s range of eye and lipwear can work on most skintones

Teint Miracle foundation from Lancome

Mall Directory FIRST FLOOR

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French Connections 46075603 Ethos 45635146/47/9873290685 Calvin Klein Jean 46075607 Meena Bazaar 46592227 Lancome 41677741 Sunglass Hut 46075614/ 9711027817 Color Plus 64640181 Boggi Milano 46075612/ 13 D&A 9311556773 Reebok 9971288391/41031117 Mango 46094707/8 Gelato Vinto 9871996399/41324991 (9990805194 - Prashant Manager) 46098219 Archies Gallery Smart Kids Toys 41039313 Adidas 40551845/9871381500 46098252 Satya Paul W Store 46040756/9999184267 Orra 41572951/41572950 Da Milano 46609071/9654087387 Biba 46609036/9999910972 DKNY Accessories 46075669 Alcott 46075617 Look Who’s Walking 46153133/ 3144 Surreal 40571389 Dayal Opticals 46179900/ 46178800 Cinnabon 9717122556/46105148 Costa Coffee 40516817/9718549866\9716934187 (Naren-Manager = 9910449762) Smoke House Deli 46075646 Mocha Art House 9310575005/46075631 Mothercare 41753074/9711984985 Guess 46040739/ Promod 46094705

S.Oliver 46158830/9953597475 Woodland 41042570 L’occitane 41042450 Keya kai noosh 41016844/50/9560715533/9560715544 Aldo shoes 32087088 ,41042369 La Senza 41042371 Bambiola 46107382 Mac 46696060/46696061/9811705624 Esprit 46170848/49 Charles & Keith 43453400/24975052 Monpri 46098220/ Inglot 32087091/9899978000 Forest Essentials 9999338310/41004482 Giovani 9818488836/46564748/49 41007523 Chokola Swarovski 46060924 45060914/15 / Steve Madden (Deepu-8447604441) Zara 41680853/41680854 Parcos 46878711/9811437358 Mocha Art House 42902201/02/09310575001 Harley-Davidson 9560892486/9650000088 Lacoste 46170682/46170683 Zodiac 64591267/9560912085/9266985576 Market café 41682937/38 Seacret 8800590609/8800590610 Marks & Spencers 46706554/ 9560099275 (Nitul Lange - store manager - 9650095494) Karigari 9911807997/45012400/ Cookie Man 40517665 Fragrancia 9871162694 Make My Skin 9873026767 Claire’s 40534787/9650406646 Bebe 41574545

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Guardian pharmacy 40167004 TGIFriday’s 46060956/ 57 Veda 46040707/9650044223 Italia 43111777 News Café 46605773, Tamangang 45567777/9560269292F New U About U - Dabur 46075432 Tantra 46142436 Bijoux Terner 40517917 Play-N-Pets 011-41016586/9910433642 Shine Star 46105795 Looks Salon 46609048 / 49

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41008830/9312230350/ 9711937117 (Rishi Manager - 8750007843) New planet 41076315/9891259000 Tasty Tangles 41016810/41066000 Kaya Skin Clinic 46612529/30 Nourish 9312269562 Om Book Shop 46075620 Aroma Thai 46612477/41080109 Iraya 41026653/54/55 VLCC 41030095 Kool Toys 011-41005378/9873773375 Izakaya 46656317/989935630

Jashn 32470353 Evolv 41076666 (9953100852) Celio 46609068 Nike 46124757 Tommy Hilfiger 46075608 / 609/9999876372 United Colors of Benetton 46040750 Three Sixty Degree 46094785/ 9873197951 Clarks 011-46508023/9971913980 Ballons Designs 65759813/9650537063 High Times (Liquor Shop) 41666242/41666243 Levi’s 45625671 / 72 FootStep 46609070\9871216539 Catwalk 43151261 Van Heusen 46060922/4609824/9911223077 Louis Philippe 46098275/ 76 Punk 46098287 46075697/ 9899425595 Indian Terrain Calonge 46534271/ 9717616145 La Vastra 46609044 Numero Uno 46098244 Nine 46109593 Jamun Tree 45791179 Le Marche 46106777 Gizmos 46075600/46075601 Puma 41003385 Ritu Kumar 41047550/ 41047551 Forever New 9650928782/41014763/62 Jasmine 41881763/42270031 Taylor Made 41014740 WHSmith 4029503/9891444112/9958880441

Crocs 41062482 Reebok Juniors 41031117 Shoe tree 46678312 Chemistry 46696463/46695708 Bwitch 46658616 Latin quarters 41076814/40568083 I world 41033344/41033355/9654123123 kidology 9654415633/41042590/41042591 Early learning Centre 46858516 Minawala 64722887/9711256684 Woods 9953938028 Samsung 46696065 Fab India 46542545 30680189/ 9810146746/ 9717750750 / The Fragrance People 9911062014 Tie rack 46152725 Samsung/ Blackberry 9650848484/011-46848484 (Star Mobitel) Ginni & Jonny 41003548/ 9958416284 Nail Spa 9310221926 Monalisa 41084749/9582760619 LiL Diva 46709978/9871404382 Zara 41680853/41680854 Marks & Spencers 46706554/9650095494 optique 41061716/9654393998 Park Avenue 40513969/41016677 Trendy Baubles 41058550 Trendy Diva 40517138/ 9818880343/ 8860601116 I Design 9810742097/ 9958666185/ 46102989

FOOD COURT Domino’s 9899893050 Haldiram’s 9310690801 Mc Donald’s 9711882108 Subway 46609033 Tikka Town 46075689 Baskin Robbins 46587945

Brown Sugar 40671731\9250487000 Ooh La La 9911417892 Baker ST 9911199565 / 46094717 Soy express 45555369/9711560900 Gali Parathe Wali 9312514106 Pino’s 46094717

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