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Traditional
is the new trend
T
By Nadia Farooq
his Eid when many local lawn brands have launched their Eid Collections to suit the monsoon season, the trends are inclined towards the traditional side. Traditional fashion and accessories are making a huge comeback this Eid. Here are a few pointers that are bound to help you shine.
Kundan earings
Traditional Kundan earings are a big fashion accessory this time of the year. They are available in many different styles and designs to your liking, so while shopping make sure to grab a pair!
Sharara’s
They don’t have to be kaam dar or so heavy that you cant move around. The latest shararas are worn with long flared shirts. If you are still thinking of what to wear this eid think no more for sharara is your answer.
Henna
Black heena is long lasting as well as beautiful on the hand. It is available everywhere in the market. But if you really want to stand out go for an Arabic heena design.
Clutch
Oh and where to put all that Eidi? Get an elegent and classy clutch.
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Bangles
There is no eid without bangles where the traditional glass ones have taken the back seat. Its time for the beautiful handmade ones so get yours custom made!
Style Savy
Fashion with a twist By: Rubia Moghees
K
eeping Ramadan in mind, Lounge offers you an insight into one accessory which is quite a trend nowadays but conveniently ignored while discussing fashion. It is the Hijab, a scarf worn over the head to cover the hair. Although the hijab was a religious symbol, more recently it has also become a fashion statement. When adorned in a hue of color with the right accessory to accompany it, the hijab is one fashion statement you wouldn’t want to miss!
A few years ago, the hijab was a simple piece of black/brown cloth that was just meant to cover the head. Au contraire’ the hijab is now an international sensation with a plethora of styles and cuts coming out every minute. It is now available in a multitude of colors; yellow, blue, pink, burgundy, orange, green, you name it and there they are. What’s more is that even multi colored and dyed hijabs are available. Even if you don’t find one that suits your taste or clothes, you can always grab a piece of rectangular white cloth and have it dyed as your preference. This means that now you have an accessory to match the rest of your wardrobe. Whether your mood is bright or dull or simple neutral, you now have something to flaunt off your attitude in a stylish manner! Apart from colorful variations, the hijab also offers itself in various styles ad cuts to suit the occasion. Casual friends get together? Drape your colored chiffon scarf around your neck and over your head just
so that it reveals a little bit of that flick you have. Formal dinner or wedding? Take out your silk hijab that has a few of those silver danglings all along the border and you’re r e a d y to hit the town. Alternately, you can also wear a plain silk
When adorned in a hue of color with the right accessory to accompany it, the hijab is one fashion statement you wouldn’t want to miss
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hijab with a jewellery pin or brooch to jazz up your attire. Office meeting? Bring out a crisp cotton hijab with a light self border to achieve that elegant yet professional look. There you have it, the hijab offers it all. Finally, there are also a million styles to wear the hijab. Some are inspired from famous actresses and include the Kelly style after actress Grace Kelly, whereas some are just simple styles that you can do on your own such as the crown style or the neck wrap or the head band or the bandana wrap and many more. It just depends on what your mood is and you can transform a small, single piece of cloth into a unique fashion experience that is guaranteed to turn heads around!
Men’s essentials for Eid
E
very year, the last ten days of Ramadan are marked by a shopping spree that is incomparable to all the other holidays in this country. It is a time when new brands are launched, new shops are inaugurated and every retailer brings out his/her special, ‘Eid’ stock that
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he/she had been planning and preparing for since the beginning of the summer season. A large percentage of this activity is centered on women leaving their male counterparts wondering where to go and treat themselves to some Eid shopping. Hence, I decided to make a list of the best retail therapy a man can have over this coming Eid.
1)
Kurtas
The first and foremost important Eid essential for every man is the new Kurta that he has to buy. If you don’t want to look like the rest of the penguins in starched white suits with black chappals, you might need to make some effort and make your way to the Design Emporium. It has the best of what the most cutting edge
While
you’re
driving
around during the day visiting one family after the other, a killer pair of shades is required to finish off the look men’s designers or Pakistan have to offer in terms of shalwar kameez and kurtas. Located on Kasuri Road, off Hussain chowk and across Coffee Tea Company, it is a haven for every man’s fashion dilemma. If you want to play it safe but yet have a slight modern touch that differentiates you from the rest, then Ismail Farid, Bareeze Man and Abdul Sammad will be perfect choices. The embroidery lovers will enjoy the beautiful pieces by HSY, Asifa & Nabeel, and Fahad Hussayn. The teenagers can wear the funky, yet well priced stuff (under Rs3000) by the likes of Jazib Qamar, Rona Noman, and Tayyab Bombal.
2)
Shoes/ Chappals
Footwear on Eid day can make or break an outfit. Jazib Qamar is a new designer from Karachi offering the coolest new leather chappals in town. They are hand painted along with exotic leathers in a variety of colours to choose from. Something more contemporary would be the cool gladiator inspired sandals from
a new label called ‘Footprint’ that is also available at the Design emporium.
3)
Sunglasses
While you’re driving around during the day visiting one family after the other, a killer pair of shades is required to finish off the look. Optica at Ammar Belal has a new selection of Carrera sunglasses as well as the classic Ray-bans, which match every kind of face shape and outfit.
might not be a bad idea. Damas has a new range of bracelets that can also be custom ordered. If the budget persists, then there is nothing more exquisite than a beautiful luxury watch that you can pick up from the Wilsons Store on Main Boulevard.
6)
Grooming
A good haircut and basic grooming services are a perfect treat for a man before he does the rounds with the family. The Toni & Guy salons in Gulberg and Defense are my favorite places for these services. Ask for the creative director’s opinion when deciding a new look for yourself and Shammal will suggest something that suits you which is well worth the money.
7) Lals Chocolate
4)
Wallets
Whether you are getting Eidi or giving Eidi, the wallet becomes a highly visible accessory on this occasion. I have seen some fabulous pieces at Hub Leather if you want to go the classic route with an elegant black piece. The Design Emporium carries some cool wallets in exotic python skins and colors that are also very reasonably priced.
5)
Jewelry
If you want to treat yourself to a present, then investing in a nice bracelet to go along with your kurta and watch
What is Eid without some desert and great food? If you want to score major brownie points with all the elders than take the beautifully wrapped chocolate from Lals as a present when you go visit them. They will be talking about this great gesture till the next Eid and that is plenty of time for us to come up with something newer and better for next time.
8)
Camera
Eid means taking a lot of pictures with the family so a good camera is essential which is also compatible with your outfit. The new floors launched at the Enem store offer a variety of items at great prices. They have a great range of cameras under Rs12000, which are small enough to be concealed in your kurta or trouser pocket.
august 28 - September 03, 2011 I 39
Those Blasted Tailors! By Amara Javed
E
very year when the holy month of Ramzan comes to an end, it means one thing for us ladies (besides a reprieve from pakoras) - finding the perfect ensemble for the Eid. It is a time for us to step out in our finery, celebrating the end of a month of fasting and feasting. But mostly it’s just a competition to see who wears the best – on a national level. And it can turn ugly; I’ve had family functions turn into wrestling events when two relatives ended up wearing the same thing. It is all very important you see, being the best-dressed. You get the crown – until next Eid when someone saunters in wearing an ensemble to rival yours. So it makes sense that ladies are frantically running around in bazaars trying to get their ensembles just right; haggling with the kapray wala, abusing the lace wala and the man every woman has the most alarmingly complicated love/ hate relationship with – the tailor. There is nothing quite as satisfying as finding that perfect piece of cloth – so soft, so sensual, the perfect shade – and the perfect embroidery, intricate enough to rival that of the highest
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standard of couture. Now imagine whipping up a spectacular design in your head, oh if only others shared your aesthetic vision. Now imagine having all that sabotaged by this man who claims it his profession to ‘make clothes’, I scoff. Now nobody wants to feel like a headless chicken, it’s just that these tailors make us act like one. For instance, mine has proven nothing more than a mortal enemy. Allow me to elaborate. Over the years, it has become a tradition for my tailor to create a travesty out of my visions; no Eid would be complete without a ruined outfit. But why don’t I learn? What makes me wanting to back to that cramped basement shop time and time again? Is it the feeling of euphoria one derives from being directly involved in the conception and creation of a piece of clothing? Probably. Is it worth the nervous breakdown I suffer every time the vision is not executed flawlessly? I don’t think so. Have I learnt? Of course not. Ready-to-wear fashion is hassle-free and less time consuming than the numerous bazaar trips required if you are creating something on your own and everyone has launched Eid collections promising to be affordable, wearable and chic. But despite the plethora of prêt shops and retail boutiques popping up
There is nothing quite as satisfying as finding that perfect piece of cloth – so soft, so sensual, the perfect shade – and the perfect embroidery, intricate enough to rival that of the highest standard of couture everywhere, the tailoring business is as strong as ever. Numerous reasons factor into this. Firstly tailors are cheaper than professional designers, and in most cases they are just as talented. Secondly, there is a sense of empowerment involved in knowing you are getting something tailored to your exact requirements and last but not least, retail becomes common. You can walk into a room and risk seeing 4 other women wearing the same outfit as you. So then the question becomes: what is more important to you this Eid, your sanity or your individuality?
Eid festivities By Rubia Moghees
I
t’s that time of the year when the atmosphere is brimming with Eid buzz. After the grueling long hours of fasting; the shoppers bear all the weather constraints and gear up to shop for Eid. This, like many previous years is one hectic time to pick and choose the dress of one’s liking that would be weather friendly as well as stylish enough to look dressy for the special occasion. Their has been no let-up in the exhibitions and displays of Eid-Collections for the current year and the shoppers amongst us are busy having a good time by fetching the outfits of our choice. The lure of these exhibits is too much for the rich, cash stuffed-aunties who do not mind spending huge sums in getting the best look and the tag of the most expensive ‘jorra’ of the season. Lounge conducted a survey and talked to some of the famous designers on their collections specially launched for Eid this year.
the age and weather limitations,’ informs Sehr. The upper-end collection is based on wispy chiffons, block printing and nets and the price range is between Rs4000 to Rs13000. Where as our voile and cotton line is obviously priced lower and has minimal use of embroidery. There are 3 piece suits and some of them are single shirts too which are well-tailored and could be worn with skinny tight pajamas and lowers. Sehr has recently sent her PreRamadan capsule collection to New York and London and has got raving reviews
Sehr Atif of ‘Saai’ ‘My Eid-collection is based on two segments as I believe that the younger lot likes to dress up and the middle-aged women tends to dress down because of
for she has been swamped with orders.
Saman Arif of ‘Nayna’ The display of Saman Arif has something for everyone; falling in the price range of Rs12000 to Rs15000, her line includes 2-pieces in chiffons where she has emphasized more on the fabric and cuts. ‘I believe in not doing things over the top having minimal use of embroidery and using diverse color coordination.’ Her Eidcollection has vibrant use of
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colours from maroons, chocolate browns and purples to delicate pastels in long hemlines and stylized trousers.
Ayesha Khurram Ayesha Khurram has been in the fashion business for 10 years, and last summer, she decided to expand her prêt line by launching her very own signature store. The launch focused on the new line, which boasted many elegant yet contemporary designs - using a combination of embroidery and sequins that has yet to be seen in Pakistan. The experimentation with patterns, figures and faces has been a phenomenal success and continues to be a trendsetter in the Pakistani fashion market. Her loyal following swears for the name; excellence in quality and meticulous finishing. Their Eid-line has semi-formals single shirts in pure chiffons with a dash of embroidery
After having a great summer season, Nishat has launched their Eid-line which is based on stitched 3-piece suits. Overall the collection fails to inspire as it includes done to death jamavar patties and the extensive use of nets that also takes away the classy look from the attire. However, the Nishat designer team has cleverly used ‘mokesh’ for that extra bling affect and the cuts are mostly contemporary with corners dropping on sides and use of panels. Their price range is between Rs5500 to Rs12000 rupees.
The lure of these exhibits is too much for the rich, cash stuffed-aunties who do not mind spending huge sums in getting the best look and the tag of the most expensive ‘jorra’ of the season and Swarovski crystals falling in the bracket of Rs7500 to Rs15000. ‘I am offering a sophisticated line in style and design where there is more emphasis on the work and the overall look of the garment,’ Ayesha said.
Sania Maskatiya Sania is offering a wide variety for her Eid range, from screen printed cottons, embroidered and block printed voiles, embellished chiffon’s, silks, dip dyed shamoos tunic to cotton net embroidered kamizs. ‘We carry a semi formal line of kamdani and hand worked outfits in cotton nets and silks, to our limited edition chiffon chicken kari suits as well as heavy off the rack formals. Primarily our cottons start from Rs4500, the voile’s from Rs9000, semi formals from Rs13000, formals from Rs 21000 upwards and Chicken kari collection Rs 38500 upwards.’ Each line has a different theme, from pastel floral, to bright coloured geometrics, a warm earthy palette for our formal line and an abundance of nude coloured ensembles.
Junaid Jamshed Junaid Jamshed has made a mark for himself in recent times in men’s kurtas and the exclusively designed collection of stitched and un-stitched suits for women. The price range for their hand-woven kurtas and printed fabric in cotton is between Rs2000 and Rs5000 Rupees. The 3 piece ensembles for ladies are smartly structured and are between Rs68000 based on chiffons and cottons. The
range for little girls ‘kaliyaan’ consists of a vibrant color palette and is a perfect answer to a mother’s headache in finding something suitable for girls and boys between the age groups of 2 to 12years. The price range if compared to other such brands also falls in the affordable as each dress is priced between Rs1500 to Rs2500 rupees.
Amir Adnan Being one of only few male designers of the country Amir Adnan has become a house-hold name when it comes to quality and variety. For this season, Amir Adnan has come up with a line based on fusion work with heavy embroideries exclusively meant for formal occasions. The prices are between Rs2800 and going up to Rs15000. Not lagging behind is Huma Adnan’s FNKasia which is also offering an interesting selection of single shirts in ethnic embroideries and colorful embellishments. There are medium length shirts with traditional work done on them and are teamed with trousers.
Nishat Textiles The growth of Nishat in recent times is solely on the fact that their products lasts long and are known for durability.
House of Bareeze A seasoned pro; a huge brand name that every year stocks great styles and designs to meet the demands of their vast clientele; Baree`ze has grown tremendously and has branched out. Their offering in Minnie Minors is meant to cater to young boys and girls and this year too the store has a large variety dedicated to the needs of this age group. The steep prices are however a big put off. ‘Chinyere’ offers ready -to-wear suits and separate kurtas for the women of today. Their heavily embroidered collection with use of gota, crystals,dabka and stones is based on chiffons costing between Rs18000 to Rs20000. The newly launched men’s line is all set to woo their ever-increasing male clients and the heavily embroidered kurtas are priced between Rs4200 to Rs6000 rupees. Leisure Club has a relatively cheaper range from Rs6500 to Rs10000 rupees in chiffons and gets the thumbs up for embellishments and styling.
august 28 - September 03, 2011 I 49
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Interview
How will they spend their Eid Day?
By Sahar Iqbal
Lounge readers would love to know how the famous and known spend their Eid Day so we asked them some questions and here is what they had to say.
Mehreen Raheal How will you spend your Eid Day?
For me Eid is about family. There is a huge brunch at my grandmother’s house on this day where the entire family gets together and the festivities begin. It is all about joras, food, family, fun and frolic.
Which designer’s clothes you will wear on this Eid-Day?
There’s no particular designer whose clothes I will wear. It can be anything I like depending on my mood and the weather. It might even be something I have gotten made myself or something that has been lying in my closet and I haven’t worn-so not necessarily a designer piece for me.
Any message to Lounge’s readers?
Indeed these are difficult times for us and we are surrounded by negativity, with this occasion we have something to looking forward to. This is a day to rejoice and celebrate with family and friends where we realize the importance of spending time with our loved ones. We should learn to forget ourselves and care about those around us.
Sabina Pasha How will you spend your Eid Day?
Focus on complete harmony with my family and entertain my highly charged neighbours who keep a sharp eye on every move I make.
Which designer’s clothes will you wear on this Eid-Day?
The simple family girl will take over me that day and I will only wear a traditional pearl white chooridar number with a dozen brightly coloured bangles.
Any message to Lounge’s readers?
Live to the fullest and enjoy the glories of life. Let’s urge the extremists to calm down and stop the killings that stalk every corner of the country. Let peace and love prevail.
Ali Zafar How will you spend your Eid Day?
I try to make this day all about family since I don’t get to spend much time with them otherwise.
Which designer’s clothes will you wear on this Eid? I am not a designer slave. I wear whatever I am comfortable in
Any message to Lounge’s readers?
I think we should celebrate every day like Eid. It should be about spreading love and joy. It should be about making a difference in the life of others.
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Goher Mumtaz How will you spend your Eid Day?
I will be spending it with my cousins and family. I don’t get much time to spend with my family and relatives so it’s sort of a festival where we all get together and celebrate. Yes, I will sleep at the first day of Eid!
Which designer’s clothes will you wear on this Eid-Day? Junaid Jamshed or Akber Baber
Any message to Lounge’s readers?
Wish you all a very happy Eid! Please take care and spend money unconditionally on poor people because that’s where you actually will get satisfaction of celebrating Eid.
Anoushey Ashraf How will you spend your Eid Day?
I spend my Eid day with my family and loved ones at home
Which designer’s clothes will you wear on this Eid-Day?
There is this new designer by the name of Aamna Aqeel from Karachi – I went to her exhibit and really liked her clothes so it will be her collection all the way.
Any message to Lounge’s readers?
Spend this Eid by spending modestly on yourself and giving some extra money to those who really need it. That’s what I have done.
Jimmy Khan How will you spend your Eid Day?
Eid day is spent relaxing with the family. Eid night is spent entertaining people usually at Gunsmoke
Which designer’s clothes will you wear on this Eid-Day?
My very own kurta pajama – Lucknow inspired.
Any message to Lounge’s readers? Happy eating
Meesha Shafi How will you spend your Eid Day?
Eid is spent doing lots of visiting, meeting family and friends. The best part is usually all the great food. But this time, I’m especially excited because it will be my daughter’s first eid.
Which designer’s clothes will you wear on this Eid-Day? I usually make my own clothes on eid. It’s more enjoyable that way.
Any message to Lounge’s readers?
I hope that this year and all the ones to come, the people of Pakistan enjoy a peaceful, beautiful and festive Eid with loved ones and lots of laughter. Ameen.
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Juggun Kazim How will you spend your Eid Day?
I spend my Eid with my son and viewers. The morning is spent live with the viewers. Then lunch at my khala’s with family, mehndi churiyan and the works! Eid Zindabad!
Which designer’s clothes will you wear on this Eid? I haven’t decided yet but most probably Kamiar Rokni.
Any message to Lounge’s readers?
Celebrate this joyous day but also pray for the people of our country to have faith that we will be the change that this country needs.
Hamza Ali Abbasi How will you spend your Eid Day?
Well I spend my Eid in a very usual and traditional way. I stay at home with family while our relatives and an extended family visit.
Which designer’s clothes will you wear on this Eid?
As far as clothes are concerned, shalwar kameez of any brand will
do.
Any message to Lounge’s readers?
Eid is an occasion which should be spent with your family and relatives, something which otherwise we don’t do.
Mehrbano Sethi How will you spend your Eid Day?
I spend Eid day with my family, usually at my father’s house.
Which designer’s clothes will you wear on this EidDay? I will wear an outfit by Muse
Any message to Lounge’s readers?
Eid Mubarik and remember that the spirit of charity does not end with Ramzan; it should continue all year round.
Saim How will you spend your Eid Day?
Eid is truly a family occasion so I get to spend with my family and go to other relatives with cakes and get Eidi from all the elders which is always a plus.
Which designer’s clothes you will wear on this Eid?
My new Men line is going to be the highlight this Eid so will wear Saim only.
Any message to Lounge’s readers?
Do something special on this eid for others.
Faisal Karim Kundi How will they spend the Eid Day?
Unlike others who get to spend their Eid with their families only, I have to spend my Eid by meeting thousands of people in DI Khan. But nothing feels better than being showered with love and respect by people of my constituency. My day starts early morning and goes till late evening.
Which designer’s clothes will you wear on this Eid?
I wear white shalwar kameez on Eid. It doesn’t have to be a famous brand. Quality is all I care about.
Any message to Lounge’s readers?
Make an effort to help at least one family spend a happy Eid. It will make your own memorable. 56 I august 28 - September 03, 2011
10
Ideal ways to start a summer day
By Nadia Farooq
T
here are days in summer when you just want to grab yourself a cool drink and lie on the couch. The heat prevents you from any activity and makes you lazy and sluggish. But summer is also the time to get a head start on things and for that you need to be energetic. Here are ten ways to give you a kick start every summer day. These ways will not only leave you refreshed but will also keep you healthy and beautiful. So take your pick and forget that you are not a very morning person because that is about to change.
Take a bubble bath Get a scented bubble bath and get a relaxing experience early in the morning
Drink 2-3 glasses of water This will help you get a fresh skin as well as a fresh mind
Power yoga If you do yoga then do it right after you wake up, it gives you immense energy.
Eat fruits Eat a fruit to give yourself an active start.
Listen to music Listen to some catchy beats that refreshes the mind.
Drink green tea Rather that regular tea, green tea in summers leaves you light; it is very good for health.
Stretch Get out of bed and stretch for 3-5 minutes
Quiet time After waking up do your morning chores in silence or give yourself at least 15 mins of quiet time. In this time think about how you want to start your day.
Balanced breakfast Get your self a light yet vigorous breakfast; making it your self always helps.
Breath deeply Inhale and exhale deeply for 5 minutes, it will help the oxygen flow in your blood and vitalize you. august 28 - September 03, 2011 I 57
Weekly International Trend guide, spring / summer 2011
Fashionista Fatima
From the catwalks of Paris to the Fashion Houses of Milan, walking the streets of New York to the boutique lanes of London, Fatima Khan, fashion stylist, designer, graduate of NCA and The London School of Fashion is a self proclaimed Fashionista. Her unique aesthetic sense coupled with her experience as a fashion buyer/merchandiser for various Fashion Houses in London has helped to launch herself as a fashion connoisseur par excellence. Meet her every Sunday and learn what’s hot on the high streets in the global fashion village as well as the season’s must-haves and how to wear them.
Seventies - Get into the Groove 70s fever for spring/summer
Relaxed maxis, denim flares, pussy bow blouses, shades of rust, mustard, and orange, pussy bow blouses and wedges. It can only mean one thing, the 70s are back. Ok so it’s a total fashion cliché to categorize a season by decade it references - but there’s just no getting around it: SS11 really is going all out for 70s. It’s not only the bowie-inspired silhouette, eye searing colour combinations and flared, there’s also the accessories, hair and make-up directly referencing Jodie foster in ‘Taxi Driver’ as seen at Marc Jacobs or Bianca Jagger and Pat Cleveland. If you have not seen the 1976 film network, download it now and you will get an idea
Runway
The louche ‘70s are back on the fashion agenda for SS11 with an explosion of bright colours, retro prints, and groovy flares. After last season’s focus on the prim and proper ‘50s, fashion has re-embraced hedonism and fun. Cue colourful, exuberant collections from Marc Jacobs, D&G and Sonia Rykiel, heavily influenced by iconic ‘70s designer Yves Saint Laurent. With an eye-popping colour palette of red, pink, purple, orange and mustard, this is a fun and irreverent take on the decade that traditional good taste forgot. Picture Bianca Jagger and Marisa Berensen kitted out in flowing maxi dresses, bright flares, and sky high wedge platforms and you will get an idea. Marc Jacob presented a delicious selection of tailoring. His SS11 collection was a love letter to 70’s, big hair, overgrown corsages, enormous straw hats, bright flappers and lashings of hedonism.
For my Pakistan
This was the season’s biggest trend. But to avoid looking like you’re in fancy dress or are wearing the entire contents of a vintage shop mix in some modern pieces. Try wearing denim flares with a silk blouse and finish it off with a modern, tailored blazer. Don’t be afraid to mix your colours and clash shades of orange, brown and rust. This is a trend that will put the fun back into fashion with a handful of key larger-thanlife pieces. I’ve edited some key pieces available now that will take you right through the season.
Key inspirational pieces
Here are some key pieces from international market so you can take the inspiration and translate the upcoming trends into your outfit A. Flared jeans, £35, Marks & Spencer B. Yellow spot pussybow short sleeve blouse, £36, Topshop I C. Small leather buckle satchel, £45, Warehouse D. Floppy straw hat, £16, BHS (bhs.co.uk) E. Rosa woven seagrass tote, £155, Marc by Marc Jacobs F. Sunglasses, £183, Burberry G. NW3 Grey shoes, £110, Hobbs H. Rope-print stretch-jersey maxi, £460, Milly I. Square semi precious ring, £10, Topshop fashionistafatimakhan@gmail.com
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facebook.com/fashionistafatima
H
Engineered to entertain By Sikander Ahmad Khan
N
o animals were harmed in the making of Rise of the Planet of the Apes and neither was James Franco’s career – this is precisely the kind of summer diversion that the studios have such a hard time producing now. Many questions are answered during the course of Rupert Wyatt’s rather compelling and moving Rise of the Planet of the Apes. I went into the screening of Rise hoping it realises it’s potential. There, however, were many reasons for my trepidation. Congo, the 1995 ape blockbuster, would be one, the others being pretty much every other ‘intelligent animal’ movie since the original Planet of the Apes series. Thankfully, you don’t have to worry, as Fox’s restart of the legendary franchise delivers on almost every front. To my surprise and delight, Rise is actually fun and engrossing – and that makes it a summer movie rarity. The
If the performing apes had a union, Andy Serkis would definitely be a top-notch decision-maker story, though closer to the epic Deep Blue Sea rather than the Apes franchise, delivers its purpose. With several nods and winks to the previous attempt, Rise clearly knows which side its bread is buttered, and fan boys and girls will not be disappointed. The film opens with Will Rodman (James Franco) working in a biotech lab at a company called Gen-Sys (get it?) developing what he hopes is a cure for Alzheimer’s by experimenting on chimpanzees. Not to overplay the ethical issues – because the movie sure doesn’t. Engineered to entertain, Rise of the Planet of the Apes may be awkwardly named, but almost everything else about it is generally easygoing, including the inevitable action and the digitally assisted performances. First among the computer creations is Caesar, who evolves from a ball of fluff into a curious child, a sullen teenager and finally a young adult given nuance through performance-capturing technology
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(which combines an actor’s moves with computer-generated imagery) and the efforts of Andy Serkis, the actor, also of Gollum fame. If the performing apes had a union, Andy Serkis would definitely be a topnotch decision-maker. The 47-yearold British actor has stolen two of the greatest simian roles of the 21st century. First, the title primate in Peter Jackson’s remake of King Kong and now Caesar, a sentient, wordless chimpanzee who becomes a Che Guevara-like revolutionary in Rise of the Planet of the Apes. When Caesar scowls, as he increasingly does, you don’t see just digital magic at its most advanced; you also see a determined, angry and thinking character. In the words of Director Wyatt, ‘In an ideal world, I’d like people to be so taken by the story, they don’t focus on how the apes were created,’ Wyatt said. ‘The heart of this movie is Andy Serkis.’
Cuisine
Top eating spots in Lahore this Eid By Sumeha Khalid & Nadia farooq
A
s they say ‘a family that eats together stays together’. Dining out for most families is more than just having a good meal; it is about ambience and conversation. Many restaurants in Lahore provide an aesthetically set ambience and quality food. Eid is another time when family and friends come together, so in this article here are the top eating spots you can enjoy with friends and family.
Costra Nostra
It is by far the best Italian place in town!! Run by three siblings Shereen, Shan, and Yasmeen it started off as a small catering business and further expanded to a restaurant in Gulberg. Its décor matches its mafia like name but the menu is exquisite and scrumptious. If you have an elegant evening to plan then this is the place to be!
Cafy Aylanto
With seating inside and outdoors, this good-looking café tosses up a range of pastas as well as other Continental tempters including New Zealand lamb chops and Norwegian salmon steaks. For pure indulgence you can’t beat this menu and atmosphere.
California Grill Steak House
Howdy Partner! Care for a steak? A perfect place for a juicy scrumptious steak and that’s not all folks. The ambience of this place is also quiet relaxing. The service is exceptional and the menu contains everything from sandwiches to pasta to fish n’ chips.
Gloria Jean’s Coffee’s
If you want to grab a quick coffee with friends on Eid then this is the place. It gives you variety in coffee and in delicacies. The environment is casual and forthcoming and it’s the place to kill a boring afternoon. Situated both in DHA and Gulberg, its interior is all the rage and grasping.
World Fashion Café
If you want to dine in fashion then this is the place for you! Complete with a runway and bar WFC is tastefully set and delicious at the same time. The café which previously held many fashion shows and music shows gathers a niche crowd and provides an exciting dining experience. If you are a sheesha lover then this place might interest you most of all.
Top eatouts for Karachi
This Eid if you don’t plan to cook you can head out towards good ol’ Shezan Ampi’s for lunch. It one of the oldest restaurants in the city and though it may not be a favourite joint for the hip ‘n’ happening some of the dishes are really divine. If you are a steak fan try out their American steak. It’s succulent and tantalizing, cooked to perfection. Served with savoury veggies and fries it’s a platter to die for! And the best part is the price, for Rs475 you cannot get this big a steak serving anywhere else. But if it’s authentic Lebanese that you crave, then make a beeline for Abaan, one of the latest additions in the growing list of eateries in the Defence locality of Karachi. Try the Sheesh Taouk at Abaan; Charcoal grilled chicken breast cubes marinated in mixed Lebanese peppers, vinegar, yogurt, garlic, lemon juice and olive oil this delightful meal is served with Lebanese fresh garlic sauce. And for Rs495 the serving is quite satisfactory. The service is good and the prices reasonable. If you are in a more adventurous mood drive to Devil’s End where in recent times restaurants have mushroomed to the delight of food connoisseurs of the city. One of the best among the plethora is Ambala. The décor is done tastefully with a picturesque setting. Nestled on rocks on the beach, the place is situated on a 10-minute drive from Sea View and attracts food lovers from all over the city. Prices are a bit on the higher side considering they are offering desi food. For instance Rs850 for Chicken Karahi and even more for mutton. But definitely worth a visit, if not for the food then certainly for the setting. Make this Eid special with that someone special… 62 I august 28 - September 03, 2011
Glamstock
Road to a glamorous By Maheen Hassan With Eid just round the corner, Lounge offers you a review of the top places to shop on for this eid!
First things first, clothes for Eid! If you’re in the mood for casual yet trendy and comfortable, hop onto Khaadi which offers a whoosh of bright coloured kurtas as well as unstitched material that is sure to brighten up your Eid with its fashion appeal. The funky Eid kurtas stretch from Rs2500 to Rs6000 whereas the more formal material ranges from Rs10000 to Rs16000. Additionally, Khaadi Khaas also offers specially embellished Eid joras ranging from Rs7000 to Rs23000. For the male counterparts, Khaadi offers, as always, a multitude of designs to choose from keeping their simplistic yet chic philosophy in mind. Perfect for Eid, these kurtas range from Rs1500 to Rs2000. For similar comfortable options, you can also check out Generations, Cotton Ginny and ChenOne. All these exclusive stores offer a wide ranging colour palette but in their special Eid collections, they bring to you exuberant colours styled with flowy chiffons and light cotton lawns, all embellished with gems. Generations goes a step further and houses even a bigger variety in formal wear for their Eid collection. Heavy draped embroideries mixed with subtle hues embracing an array of printed and plain panels. In addition, it also offers clothes embellished with sequins and gems, once again available in a plethora of cuts, colors and sizes and it also keeps in account the choice of the consumer by offering clothes entailing both heavy and light work as it suits one’s taste. As the consumer is kept a priority, Generations offers an affordable price range stretching from Rs3000 onwards. Whatever your taste, go to Generations and choose from a variety of colours and designs for a price you want. ChenOne also offers a tasteful variety in both formals and casuals on this Eid. It’s limited but varied formal collection is placed on both lawns and chiffons and ranges from Rs6000 to Rs15000. If you’re up for sim-
Heavy draped embroideries mixed with subtle hues embracing an array of printed and plain panels
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ple yet elegant then this is a must check out. However, if ethnicity is your choice this eid, then head over to Cotton Ginny on MM Alam Road and witness an exciting collection of vibrant colors infused with ethnic embroideries and flowy cuts. Starting from Rs2500 onwards, this boutique houses some fine variety of cottons and lawns that not only appear good thanks to the unique designs but, also feel equally comfortable. For those of you searching for light chiffons in this blistering summer, fear not for Cotton Ginny has an exquisite collection of knee length chiffon frocks which will look amazing when paired with the chooridar pajamas that are also available here as separate pieces in a multitude of colours. This year round, Bareeze has also come out with quite a stunning collection bordering mostly on bright colours and lots and lots of flow. The prints are made as such that they are to be styled in flowy dresses such as frocks and A-line shirts. The colour palette is very fresh with lot of contrasts. These pretty pieces start at Rs4000 and move up the ladder as it suits the consumer. Additionally, the light and extremely comfortable material is perfect for a lahori summer. Their designer brand Kayseria also embraces the spirit of Bareeze and presents a lot of flow in their designs as well as clothes. Simultaneously, this brand offers the consumer clothes that can be worn both as formal wear and informal wear within the same jora. Yes you read it right; Kayseria houses a vibrant variety, once again in the form of flowy material decorated with either extravagant borders or heavy neck embroidery that deserves a visit. If you are looking for a bold statement, then check out Chinyere. Offering an array of bold colour collections that are sure to be an eye catcher wherever they go, Chinyere brings to the shops this Eid, a heavy collection draped with embroideries infused in multi coloured and multifaceted panels in the price range of Rs3500 plus. Coming up to the top of the line, Maria B is one boutique that cannot be missed this Eid. With new Eid collection coming in every week, there is something everyone is sure to find for themselves whatever their choice may be. Keeping the Maria B attitude in mind, this store takes you on a journey through the most exquisite designs bordered with contrasting colour combinations and intricate beads and gem work to top it off. The trend in cut is the A-line shirt that offers that flowy yet charismatic appeal and compliments women of all shapes. Maria B gives you a sleek design philosophy this Eid that is sure to sweep you off your feet! All this and much more in Rs4000 and above. With clothes must come shoes. This Eid, stop at Lark and Finch if you want the sophisticated appeal. Their Eid collection offers an array of dark colour elegance that comes in a variety of heels such as stilettos, pencil and wedges. If you want a durable yet comfortable walking experience, then Lark and Finch is your destination. The price range is from Rs1990 to Rs4000. Likewise, Lark and Finch also offers a special Eid collection for males characterized by pointed and narrow shoes as well as broad sneakers for the comparatively carefree ones out there this Eid. If however, you’re searching for a bit more pizzazz, then Unze is the place to go. Under one roof, this shop gives you all: from the glitzy heel experience to the strappy gladiators to the gem infused flats to the printed floral stilettos. All this and more within Rs3500 to Rs17000. In addition, as per its Eid festivities, Unze throws a mega sale in the last three days of Ramzan whereby all stock is on sale on a to 50% discount! Mark it on your calendar, put reminders on your phones and grab the opportunity before it’s too late. When talking about shoes, how can one miss
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out the usual Stylo and ECS charm? Like every year, this year too both have taken out a glitzy summery collection for Eid. Chappals, sandals, heels, pumps, name it and you have it. All designs boast heavy embellishment with stones yet offer durability and comfort. Needless to say, both outlets offer the most exciting blend of colours unlike any other shoe store. So, if you want to sparkle and shine out of the crowd, head over to Stylo and ECS that offer a glitzy Eid collection starting from Rs1500 onwards. While you’re at it, be sure to drop into Walkeaze as well. This shoe store has the stamp of having the biggest silver designs on its shoes. While colours are limited, this store offers a very glamorous look in its shoes and simultaneously, a perfect comfortable fit to go with it. Shoes are also available in floral designs keeping in mind the theme of summer and they have a decent gladiator variety unlike any other store. The prices are also reasonable starting from Rs1500 onwards. Finally, if your taste extends beyond the typical, then hop towards Charles and Keith for an out of this world high heel experience that amalgamates comfort, exquisite design, durability and charm all in one. Charles and Keith offers you this Eid, an extravaganza of classy black high heels which are unlike any you have seen before. Additionally, it also plays around with other subtle colors draped in pencil heeled sandals, perfect for any formal occasion. The specialty it brings out this time round is its play with straps: from single straps to multi straps curling up your leg, Charles and Keith gives straps a whole new meaning in shoe wear by giving it a variety of curves so that they not only look chic but, also shine out as a unique feature of the shoe itself. For that unique shoe experience, head out to Charles and Keith this Eid. With clothes and shoes checked, there is one more accessory that will further bedazzle your Eid. Jewellery! For the best from the rest, visit Taneez and indlge in the amazing variety their Eid collection offers. From round to oblong to lengthy, this outlet will solve all your jewellery desires. From zircon pendants and chunky gemmed bracelets to sleek bangles and earrings infused with precious stones, Taneez is your one stop shop that will cater to all your jewellery related Eid shopping, starting from Rs1500 to Rs9000. Finally, for those of you, who want to make your own fashion statement, be sure to check out some formal clutches at Unze starting with Rs3500. Available in stark and subtle colours as well as heavily embedded with gems or simple plain but shiny textures, these clutches have elegance written all over them. Eid is an occasion where one meets their friends and family to celebrate. This calls for a renewed you so that you can shine on this festive occasion on the outside as well as the inside. Keeping this in mind, beauty parlours are offering mind blowing discounts. Depilex is offering special Ramazan packages that include special facial, manicure and pedicure and threading at Rs1500 as well as another package that costs Rs2500 and includes a special facial, protein wax, washing hair etc. Likewise, Madeehas is also offering three Ramzan packages priced at Rs900, Rs1200 and Rs1500, all offering special polishers, hot oil treatments, special facials all topped with complimentary threading and waxing. Alle’nora also joins in the Eid celebrations and offers discounted packages including permanent blow dry at Rs10000, streaks, cut and keratin treatment at Rs8000 and colour, cut and keratin treatment at Rs5000. So ladies give yourself a treat and unwind at these parlors to prepare for Eid! So there you have it guys! Your full glamstop guide to what’s hot and what’s not this Eid! 66 I august 28 - September 03, 2011