Fleek by Suvarna Singh

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Editorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s L Runway R A. Roh B. Paras & C. Dolce D. Ch A walk throug Top 10 Instagram F Gopro : The perfect tr Trending 10 Famous Fashion Dream Collab : Prabal Passport to Fleek Fa Designer Extra A. Zuhai B. Karl L C. Ritu The Nepal Munching in M

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DEX

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Editor’s Letter Hello there, reader! Thank you for picking us up. This, right here, is our first but definitely not our last attempt at making an online magazine. When we were first introduced to this project, we were like 5 headless chickens running amuck, bombarding each other with a gazillion ideas. Sure glad those days are over! But, soon the dust settled, we brainstormed and came up with the three core topics that our magazine is based on - Fashion, Food and Travel; out of which Fashion obviously came out as the showstopper. Hence, in this magazine, Fashion plays the hero, Travel the sidekick and Food the soundtrack. Coming down to the title of our magazine, we had a variety of names but we wanted the name to portray the essence of our magazine, so we chose ‘FLEEK’ which means, ‘on point’, thus perfectly fitting the brief. In this issue we have tried to include all the revelent aspects of our core topics in co-relation with the present time. For the cover, we thought it best to play around with some elements of the core categories and do a sprightly photoshoot. The most exiciting part of this magazine, hands down, was the cover shoot. Although this assignment was tons of fun, we sadly will not be coming out with another issue of this magazine, as we feel that this magazine has lived its life. Tons of love. Suvarna Singh Editor

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Editor’s List

The ‘Ohh-lala’ Model The ‘Lose that hat’ Stylist The ‘Amazeballs’ Layout Designer

The ‘I’m so fly’ Writer The ‘I’m visiting that place next’ Travelista

The ‘Not another article’ Editor The ‘Minimal is wow’ Layout Designer

The ‘Twitchy fingered’ Writer The ‘I have the munchies’ Foodie

The ‘That’s so fine’ Photographer

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RUNWAY

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REVIEWS

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Photographer - Parth Sharma

AN ODE TO THE KASHMIR VALLEY WILLS LIFESTYLE GRAND FINALE BY ROHIT BAL Duhin Ganju

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The Wills Lifestyle Grand Finale by Rohit Bal was an absolute stunner. It was a show filled with glamour, luxury, heritage, and magnanimity, was the perfect grand ending to these five days of fashion. The show was held at Quli Khan’s Tomb with Qutab Minar as its backdrop, during a magical evening. The name of his collection was ‘Gulbagh’. It was inspired by the lush Mughal Gardens of Kashmir. Mesmerizing the audience, he recreated unparalleled beauty of the gardens through his garments. Floral embellished motifs, gold threadwork and patchwork etc formed his ultra rich, yet dreamy collection. Extensive craftsmanship was involved in creating the magical and mystical borders of all his garments. Fine handlooms like Chanderi, Mulmul, Matka silk and velvet formed the bases of his garments. Floorlength anarkalis in colors of offwhite was his signature style portrayed in the collection. Also, a lot of garments for men were designed too. Coats and sherwanis made out of raw silk in rich pastels of pink, yellow and sea green could be seen during the show. This was followed by hand embroidered Nehru Jackets with floral motifs. Also, all the male models could be seen wearing hand-embroidered velvet shoes, perfectly complementing the look. Techniques like hand-block printing had been used with vegetable dyes and gold leaf embossing, with a generous use of quilting and tilla, hand embroidered in resham.

They walked ramp boldly and confidently in five-inch platform heels while each of the garments reflected a true story of the Kashmir valley. In the last look, Indian supermodel Kanishtha Dhankar walked in a breathtaking maroon bridal lehenga with truckloads of gold embroidery done on it by hand. Finally, Indian heartthrob Arjun Rampal closed the show dressed simply in a black velvet sherwani with silk embroidery. Being the grand finale, a lot of attention was paid in constructing the sets. Wooden runway with incandescent lights followed by illuminated chandeliers had been constructed. Also, the tomb was adorned with thousand of floral garlands. Even men wore a lehenga at the beginning of the show, while walking on the ramp, showering the guests with roses. There were some hundred models that walked the ramp. Some of them included Kanishtha Dhankar, Carol Gracias, Sucheta and Atul Tripathi. The background music was being sung live by Shubha Mughdal who sang a variety of Indian classical songs. The front row was packed with a number of guests, be it A-list designers or socialites. The list included JJ Vallaya, Tarun Tahiliani, Ramola Bachchan, Abraham and Thakore, Gauri and Nainika, Shivan and Naresh, Nachiket Barve etc. French shoemaker, Christian Louboutin also sat in the front row dressed in a pink silk sherwani and an off-white straw hat.

The show lasted for an hour and as Rohit Bal came to take his bow, the whole audience got up from their seats to give him a huge round of applause. His astounding collection After this, models walked in heavi- for me was dream come true. It litly embellished lenghas and saris, all erally gave me an insight into his design aesthetics that he had used containing heavy gold work. to make a spectacular collection, an experience I would never forget!

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Nayanika Kapoor

It all began in 2001, when Paras Bairoliya and Shalini Jaikaria were inspired by Arthur Golden’s book Memoirs of a Geisha, and they identified with the arduous trek of the protagonist Chiyo Sakamoto, who came from a small town hoping to create an identity for herself in the big city, hence the name of the label was coined Geisha Designs.

More than embroideries or embellishments, we try and use fabric on fabric, so appliqué has been a mainstay, along with botanical motifs, prints which appear like pressed flowers. – Paras Bairoliya

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DREAMSCAPE GEISHA DESIGNS SS’15 BY PARAS AND SHALINI

The SS’15 evening wear collection reflected the ethos of the label, as it resonated a sense of sheer beauty evoked by delicate embroidery, intricate patterns and textures created with meticulous precision. With extensive use of laser, they have managed to create some stunning effects of burning holes in fabrics ranging from taffeta to jersey in a palette that displays its love for ivories, apple green to lemon yellows and peaches.

Geisha Designs is an enchanting world inspired It appeared as if the Geisha girl was walking in a forest of dreamy nostalgia with a look of innocence in her by mystique and nature. eyes. The SS’15 evening wear collection reflected The maxi dresses in sunshine yellow and leaf green the ethos of the label, as it resonated a sense with intricate prints of pressed flowers and laser cut grid like textures exuded an old world charm. of sheer beauty evoked by delicate embroidery, intricate patterns and textures created with meticulous precision. With extensive use of laser, There were also separates that garnered much admithey have managed to create some stunning ration, such as the plain yellow high- low top paired effects of burning holes in fabrics ranging from with embroidered floral pants. These were contrasted taffeta to jersey in a palette that displays its love by the 50’s inspired baby doll dresses made with rich for ivories, apple green to lemon yellows and silky taffetas and jerseys textured with laser cuts in apple greens and fossilized blues. peaches. It all began in 2001, when Paras Bairoliya and Shalini Jaikaria were inspired by Arthur Golden’s book Memoirs of a Geisha, and they identified with the arduous trek of the protagonist Chiyo Sakamoto, who came from a small town hoping to create an identity for herself in the big city, hence the name of the label was coined - Geisha Designs.

The play of transparencies between the sheer georgette and lace with the rich taffetas and jersey encapsulated the collection. The flower wreaths, halo like headpieces in black with intricate detailing, black nail-paint and ballerina shoes and lace cuffs added to the ‘dreamscape’ and completed the Geisha look.

Geisha Designs is an enchanting world inspired All-in-all the SS’15 collection was truly a sentimental journey in time and maintained a feeling of enchantby mystique and nature. ment right till the very end.

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he S/S 2015 Milan flew me to a Spanish fantasy. With the flamenco beat and the bull fighting fiesta, it was a well-orchestrated and theatrical performance delivered by what I call the modern Spanish Goddesses of beauty. They were packed with strength, passion and resilience.

SPANISH PASSIONS DOLCE & GABANNA READY TO WEAR SPRING SUMMER Shefali J. Jauhar

Dolce & Gabanna never fails to deliver femininity, elegance and sexiness in their ensembles. The silhouettes consisted of feminine fits in either sheer reveals or body hugging outfits. The hair was neatly swept back in a simple bun to add to the regality. I loved the toreadorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s costume influence on the garments. Well-tailored tight bolero jackets with hot pants in shades of red, white and black were a big YES on the runway. Great attention to detail in terms of the embellishments were also a stunner. Red never felt as sexy as the models rocked them in floral prints of roses and carnations. The frilly dancer shawls made me want to tap to the Latino beat. It added to a whole new playful vibe altogether! The frilly flamenco dresses with polka dots further added the zing to the Spanish flavors. The spirits of the models were as strong as the matador. During the finale when all the models raced the runway in similar get ups, they stood as symbols of the modern woman who is brave and fearless, she can take the bull by the horns.

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s the House of Chanel presented its Ready-to-Wear Spring Summer 2015 collection in Paris, the audience was dumbstruck with amazement by Karl’s magical take on Feminism. A mixture of watercolors and tweed was the dominant element all through the collection. Hamish Bowles for Vogue said, “ The Chanel show was a revelation.” The show took place at the usual Grand Palais Museum, Paris. It was no surprise as to what had been done with the sets. According to Karl Lagerfeld, he wanted the sets to look like a reg-

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ular Parisian street. Buildings, surrounding the runway, were made of cardboard and Plaster of Paris. As for the ramp, the brand transformed it into a road complete with crevices and water puddles to give it a very naturalistic look. Brit supermodel Cara Delevingne opened the show wearing a formal men’s suit made entirely out of the tweed fabric. The collection was an amalgamation of bright watercolor shades which had been printed on to the garments. Also, the tweed coats and jackets had

been designed in such a way that it looked as if they had been picked from a street shop. “I wanted the collection to be a combination of couture and street style”, says Mr. Lagerfeld. Therefore, towards the end, one could see formal dresses and frilled white shirts too. A whole lot of abstract shades of pink, red, orange and purple were blended together. Models walked in khaki jumpsuits, cropped jackets of tweed and striped suits with a lacquered sheen. The collection was more about female empowerment male-influenced designs could be seen in the

MAGIC WITH A TOUCH OF FEMINISM: CHANEL RTW 2015 Shefali J. Jauhar

“It was not a fashion show in a normal way. After the supermarket, I wanted them to go back to the streets.” – Karl Lagerfeld

collection. On careful observation, one could notice that the jackets were buttoned on the right side, which is generally seen in garments worn by men. Also, the footwear had a contrasting edge to it. From the front, it looked similar to the shoes worn by mesimilar to the shoes worn by men whereas from the back, one could see the strappy sandals worn by women. Double-breasted tweed suits in tones of grey and white could be seen. This was done to give a manlier look to the collection. Also, Mr. Lagerfeld kept in mind

that the whole collection reflected the influence of Parisian streets. Therefore, the patterns on some of the dresses were made similar to tiles and bricks seen on the streets. Lastly, they had the finale walk. All models including Cara, Gisele Bündchen, Joan Smallis and Kendall Jenner walked in groups holding banners. They could also be seen shouting out slogans on feminism, which was done using loudspeakers. With the awareness about feminism increasing in our society, Karl Lagerfeld showcased a

collection that no other designer could have even thought of. He kept in mind the perspective of Gabrielle Chanel and showered magic with a touch of feminism in those twenty minutes. The amalgamation of men’s fashion with that of women’s was absolutely surreal and only he could do it!

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A walk through Berlin Parth Sharma

Photographer - Parth Sharma

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Photographer - Parth Sharma

This view of a beautiful lake with boat restaurants on the side, made for a breathtaking scene. This is one of our favorite picture from the series.

Photographer - Parth Sharma

Then just walking through the streets of Berlin, he came across this intersection with a beautiful old building and an amazing street view.

This picture was taken from about a 100m away from our photographerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s apartment. The yellow street lights and the blue sky made a perfect city scape picture.

Photographer - Parth Sharma

Just a few blocks away from Brandenburg, he had to wait for the traffic lights to go green before he could cross the road. Not really something an Indian is used to. So he decided to take a picture till the time he waited.

Photographer - Parth Sharma

After walking for almost 50 minutes with 15 kg of camera/lenses/tripod, our photographer finally spoted the beautiful Brandenburg Gate.

After walking for a while, he came across the very famous Fernsehturm (Berlin TV Tower). | 2014 NOVEMBER FLEEK

Photographer - Parth Sharma

Top Instagram Food Bloggers To Follow Shefali J. Jauhar

@idafrosk An avid blogger, one can find innovative and quirky food-art posts from the Berlin-based photographer. She combines and creates fun masterpieces. Made from daily items like toast, coffee, waffles and fruits, it really is an inspiring take on the concept of food.

@jamieoliver The popular English celebrity chef with a fan following of 2.2 million, Jamie Oliver is a must-have on your list! The brilliant presentation along with the vibrant colours escalates the food post to the next level.

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@foodtalkindia Probably one of the most popular food communities in India on Instagram, it features a variety of posts from interstate to world cuisine. The variety will never seize to excite you.Users get a chance to feature whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s on their plate with the the hashtag foodtalkindia.

Our days typically start and end with the endless scrolls on Instagram. How about some colorful food posts to awaken the inner master chef in you? Here are a few Instagram users you might want to consider adding to your list when it comes to heavenly food picturesâ&#x20AC;Ś

@tifforelie A stylist, baker, photographer, illustrator based in Lexington, KY. Apart from the delicious snaps ranging from waffles to apple pies, one can also dig into her fashion and travel posts.

@utosh A graphic designer based in Japan, he manages to capture well balanced shots with the theme revolving around breakfast. For all those who avoid a hearty breakfast like me, this is a great Instagram handle to follow for appetizing breakfast posts.

GoPro : The Perfect Travel Camera Parth Sharma

It has not even been a month since GoPro released its new camera and the world has already gone crazy about it. What makes a GoPro a perfect travel camera? To start off with, it comes in an incredibly small size (41mm tall, 59mm wide. open thecover to change functions and modes on the GoPro. In fact This amazing physical attribute Moving on to the technical bit, the makes it an ideal gadget to carry GoPro is the best in its class action/ around. One can fit it in his/her travel camera anyone can buy in the pocket or just drop it in their bag. market today. The reason I can say this is because of its outstanding That was just one of the many photo and video quality. amazing features this small tiny machine has. Let’s have a look at The new GoPro Hero4 Black has another important feature. The a 12 megapixel camera with a 30 camera has an extremely tough frames per second burst rate and outer shell to take almost any outstanding low light performance. hit, as if it couldn’t get any better, This means no more shaky and the shell is also water proof. Who blurry pictures of family fun at doesn’t want a water proof camera? Disney Land with the new GoPro. One doesn’t have to worry about The camera also offers video dropping the camera on a hard quality as high as 4k with 30fps, surface or in water. A careless which is almost unreal for such customer need not worry about a compact device. You will never it as it will take pretty resist the miss out on a special moment shocks. The cool water-proof during your family vacation. feature lets you capture pictures and record HQ videos under water. The camera also offers a built in Wi-Fi feature, that allows you The outer shell is a transparent to connect your camera to your body that fits in the camera like a smart phones, iPhones and iPods. sleeve. It has several buttons on it so that the user doesn’t have to

With the useful Wi-Fi feature, one is never worried about running out of space because you can transfer the pictures from your GoPro to your smart phones directly without the hassle of carrying and connecting cables. It also lets the user control his/her Gopro with their smartphones.This means you can take a family picture by controlling the camera through your phone. I am sure at the end of this review, you’ll will be quite convinced about this fascinating gadget. Features like these is what makes the GoPro special and an ideal travel camera.

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They came, they saw, they conquered. 10 personalities who have etched their names in history. Shefali J. Jauhar & Duhin Ganju

There are numerous personalities in the world that have completely changed the outlook of fashion. Daring and confident, each of these people have contributed towards the field of fashion leading to its humungous success. As the list never ends, we penned down a few of these game changers...

Anna Wintour Editor-in-chief Vogue, US. Probably one of the most challenging, inspiring and influential woman one comes across in fashion. Anna has been the editor- in-chief for the “Fashion Bible”- Vogue for over 26 years. Also nicknamed “Nuclear Wintour” for her high standards and professionalism, she possesses regal confidence and is a true icon of her time.

Priya Tanna Editor-in-chief Vogue, India A very well known and respected name in the Indain journalism circle. Her continuous and tireless efforts towards the magazine have improved the outlook towards Indian fashion. Her support for younger designers has bought creativity towards the forefront. Who can forget Vogue’s Project Renaissance or the special edition for Woman Empowerment?

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Pat McGrath Makeup Artist One of the most sought after makeup artists in the world. She is one of those rare individuals who accomplish such feats despite no formal training. Her looks are showcased on runways of D&G, John Galliano and the works. Inspired by fabrics, she is known for her innovative usage of materials when it comes to makeup. Unlike most professional makeup artists, she uses her hands instead of brushes while applying makeup.

Sunil Sethi President FDCI, India His unmatched excellence towards the field of fashion is difficult to describe in a few words. His continuous support towards traditional Indian textiles and fabrics has bought many of the designers to the forefront thereby, providing job opportunities to the local artisans. The famous Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week happens only because of his effortless contribution towards the design council.

Suzy Menkes Fashion Critic UK Critically acclaimed fashion journalist, her ramp reviews give designers a run for their money. She is highly influential fashion-critic, her words are the set commandments of fashion. Among many of her accomplishments, the most prized are the Legion d’Honneur in France and a British OBE.

Manish Malhotra Fashion Designer India As one of the most successful designers in India, Manish Malhotra is a personality who’s style and ability to envision a look for a character is quite simply the best. Majorly working for Bollywood, Manish also designs collections that are showcased at India Couture Week. Intricate embroidery, old school detailing and high-collared lehengas are his signature styles.

Cara Delevigne Model A top notch model and the industry’s ‘it-girl’, she has been involved in numerous ad campaigns for high profile brands such as Chanel, Burberry, and Mulberry. Spotted by Christopher Bailey, she was welcomed with open arms in the industry. Currently, Cara is one of the most sought-after and among the highest paid models. In 2013, she was the most googled fashion individual in the UK. Now that speaks volumes in itself.

Masaba Gupta Fashion Designer India Also known as India’s ‘Queen of Prints’, she is a designer who puts her absolute heart and soul into whatsoever work she does. Recently retired as the Design Director for Satya Paul and she now designs for her label ‘Masaba’. She is noted for her unconventional prints with womanish drapes and silhouettes. Some of her iconic prints include the lipstick print, auto print. Camera prints and the fireworks print.

Natalie Massenet Business Women UK A quintessential business woman, Massenet is the Executive Chairman of Net-A-Porter. She boosted the domain of e-commerce when she negotiated with several reluctant luxury brands to showcases their items online. This has boosted scope for fashion retail in the world of luxury brands like never before.

Kanishtha Dhankar Supermodel India India’s finest supermodel and the proud recipient of the ‘Miss India 2011’ tag, Kanishtha Dhankar is a powerful front-runner in the Indian design industry. Her bold yet powerful personality makes her one of the most wanted models by all the designers, thus making her one of the most highly paid models in India. | 2014 NOVEMBER FLEEK

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THE MOST COVETED COSMETIC COLLAB OF THE YEAR: PRABAL GURUNG Nayanika Kapoor

This year is definitely coming to an end on a high-luxe note, with numerous designers collaborating with high-street fashion and cosmetic brands. This time, for their annual holiday collection, MAC cosmetics decided to approach fashion designer Prabal Gurung, known for his astute sense of glamour and modern luxury. Mac cosmetics has been working hand-in-hand with Gurung for the last five years for his runway shows, and it was only natural for them to approach him. Though Gurung agreed on one condition- he would get to change the packaging. He wanted to create something ‘a little different’ from what MAC had been doing in its past collaborations, and wanted his collection to exude beauty with substance. This can clearly be seen in the immaculate craftsmanship and detailing that has gone into creating the regal and luxuriously opulent packaging. The gilded casing has a chain link pattern on it, inspired by the work of artists, Damien Hirst and Sylvie Fleury. It has an old Hollywood élan to it.

Staying true to his design aesthetic, his 14 piece collection- which took 2 years to coalesce- includes three lipsticks, glosses, eye shadows, pencils, and a blush and bronzing powder. For Prabal, foraying into the cosmetic line was a natural step and partly inspired by his mothers love for cosmetics. The collections “Carmine Rouge” lipstick is a tribute to his mothers signature red lipstick.

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My first foray into fashion was when I was back home in Nepal. Like many other designers, it was about my mother. I still remember her vanity case. She’d come back from work and sit in front of the mirror to get ready. I think one of the most powerful things that a woman has is that quiet time — it’s a process of transformation. – Prabal Gurung

Since the collection resembles actual bars of gilded gold, its no surprise that this is one of the most expensive collaborations MAC has ever done. The prices range from $20 for eye shadows and lip pencils to $40 and $70 respectively for lipsticks and bronzers. This collection indubitably has one of the most coveted and sought after collectives this holiday season, and will be available online on the 26th of November in the United States, and in December, internationally. | 2014 NOVEMBER FLEEK

there’s a place on Earth where you’d find beauty in its most natural form & yet not be socially isolated from the world is Europe. The old world charm still seems to linger on even after historical feats have long surpassed. With great tales of its own, this continent would surely excite any traveler’s senses. Amsterdam is a modern city with beautiful landscapes and a diaspora of varied cultures. A happening place in the Netherlands, one can never tire from the endless roaming on the streets soaking in the fresh air and greenery. It is pleasing to see a cycle-friendly city which promotes health and environment

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friendliness. Even though you might not like visiting museum and art galleries, you are most likely to change your mind. There are over fifty different museums in Amsterdam alone which attract up to two million tourists a year. Although there is no dearth of random museums like those of cats, houseboats and spectacles; I’d highly recommend the house of Anne Frank, Van Gogh & Rijk’s museum. An ideal month for travelling in Amsterdam would be May. It is a rewarding experience with the sunny weather and the smell of fresh blooms. Amsterdam is synonymous to the land of tulips. What better than witnessing spring in full swing by visiting one of the largest gardens in the world! Keukenhof is the second largest gardens following the Dubai Miracle Garden. A 32 hectare spread of

land where one can immerse oneself in a garden like no other. Approximately 7 million flowers come to life in a riot of colours like you would never have seen before. From the usual to unusual, there is no colour missed from the rainbow. Beautifully landscaped gardens in scenic setting with lakes and streams would give you a glimpse of paradise. However, the garden is open only from midMarch to mid-May. A wanderer’s paradise, a haven for chocoholics and a country rich in history, Belgium is the place to be. While in Belgium, I had visite two cities: Antwerp & Brussels. In the city of Antwerp one must visit the Grote Markt. As you enter you will invariably see the statue of Brabo who had chopped off the arm of the giant Antigoon and threw it in the river. Legend has it that the giant lived near the Schelde River and would charge a toll for every person who would want to cross over. Failure to pay the tax would cost the person his hand. This is a famous fable in Antwerp which

many so special. Filled with history, the Imperia statue was particularly fascinating. Situated at the entrance of the harbor of Konstanz, it was built in the early 14th century. It is a 9 foot tall concrete statue that rotates on its One of the wealthiest cities in the axis once in every four minutes. world, Zurich is definitely a city worth exploring. According to It would be a dream to go back and some surveys it has been named as relive all the moments I spent in the city with the best quality of life. Europe. The untouched serenity With one of the largest and busiest and the fusion of the old with the modes of transport like airways new is what really sets this place and railways, it definitely sets the apart from anywhere else. You can standard as a global city. Women never have enough of Europe, you simply can’t. can have a gala time shopping in the crème de la crème of luxury brands on its main shopping street. You can find women on the streets from 17 to 70 dressed to the nines in designer clothing. which is one of the most popular mountain destinations in the world.

also gave its name which meant ‘Hands Throw’. In the market area you would also come across several lace workshops with the finest works in town. Any tourist or person for the matter passing the Chocolatiers on the main street would definitely not resist the sight and smell of those beauties. Brussels is one of the largest cities in Belgium. While visiting the city, one of the most talked about historical places is Manneken Pis. Situated on Rue Charles Buls, it is a tiny fountain of a little boy taking a leak. In addition to sightseeing one can pick up great souvenirs and trinkets for friends and family on the famous shopping street. Another famous landmark to visit is the Atomium.It was a symbol of postwar progress for the 1958 World’s Fair but currently stands as an architecturally strong marvel.

The world famous Zurich Zoo is a must visit place on the map of the city. Home to a diverse range of species from penguins to zebras, it is a highly well maintained ecological system. Interlaken is another town in the Bernese Oberland region of the Swiss Alps.The crystal-clear lakes all around the mountains will take you back to your ‘Heidi’ days. It is undoubtedly one of the most breathtaking places on the planet. The most frequently visited des- A boat ride in the pristine waters tination from all across Europe of Interlaken will fulfill all the wanderlust desires in you. would be Switzerland. Nothing beats the alpine beauty, the wooden cottages and the Swiss cheese of Think apple pies, freshly brewed course. A delightful place for peo- beer and you shall start dreample of all ages, the country has an ing of Germany. A two hour drive array of beautiful cities like Gene- from Switzerland can take you all the way to the Swiss-German va, Zurich & Schauffhausen. For all those fascinated by mounborder. Cobblestone roads tains and the adventure sports with impeccable architecture; a around it must visit Zermatt. It lies modern world dwelling in the old on the foothills of the Matterhorn world charm it what makes Ger-

PASS PORT T O

EUROPE Shefali J. Jauhar

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Photographer - Shefali J. Jauhar

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Photographer - Shefali J. Jauhar

| 2014 NOVEMBER FLEEK 33 Photographer - Shefali J. Jauhar

Photographer - Parth Sharma

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Photographer - Parth Sharma

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Photographer - Parth Sharma

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Photographer - Parth Sharma

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ZUHAIR A LIMELIGHT OF LE Duhin

Some people confuse this personality with Elie Saab. But the truth is, they both are poles apart. Flowy gowns, intricate patterns and exquisite lacework; Zuhair Murad is certainly the designer with unmatched excellence. He always delivers a modern statement in his creations. Over the years, various celebrities have gone gaga over his designs. Born in Beirut, Lebanon, Zuhair Murad moved to Paris after completion of his degree in fashion. He opened his own atelier in the Parisian street and subsequently launched his 40 FLEEK NOVEMBER 2014 |

own label. He now indulges in haute couture, pret-a-porter and bridal wear. Zuhair Muradâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s haute couture collections are a must watch. He generally includes motifs and cutworks from the Baroque Era. The extensive lacework and embellishments are breathtaking. According to him, it generally takes at least one month to create an haute couture gown. It passes by the hands of ten artisans before getting to be showcased at his runway shows. The bridal gown from his Spring Summer Haute Couture 2014 Show had a total of 25,000 appliquĂŠ flowers. It was sold to a client at a staggering price of $35,000! For him, each and every piece is a creation for the Gods. Structured

MURAD: EBANESE FASHION Ganju

This new collection (his 2014 Spring Summer Couture Collection) is inspired by the landscaping of the garden surrounding my house. I wanted it to be magical and this haven of peace and quiet had always been an endless source of inspiration for my designs. - Zuhair Murad

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jackets and voluminous skirts follow his divine designs. He and his team tirelessly work for hours together to make his dream outfits come true. He uses a combination of luxurious fabrics ranging from silk to delicate lace. And the of course…who can forget the Swarovski crystals? Even the background music played at his various fashion shows is so divine, it actually feels as if and angel from above is singing a melodious lullaby, thus captivating the viewer. Celebrities like Kristen Stewart, Jenifer Lopez, Christina Aguilera, Catherine Zeta Jones etc, have been spotted wearing his designs on major red carpet events. Anna Wintour had chosen one of his gowns worn by Taylor Swift at the Grammys, for showcasing it at the MET Museum. The gown was made using 24 carats of gold thread, belonging to the designer’s 2011 Haute Couture Collection. He currently has three stores located in Beirut, Paris and Milan. Zuhair Murad’s designs are like a 3D fairytale. In other words, they are a constant epitome of perfection; his uber-creative and gorgeous are nothing but pure elegance and chicness. | 2014 NOVEMBER FLEEK

here’s a force in the fashion industry to be reckoned with. Most easily identifiable with his signature white hair, black glasses and highly starched collars, it’s ‘K’ for Karl, Karl Lagerfeld. A master of reinvention in the world of fashion, Karl has never seized to evolve not only himself but several high profile luxury brands such as Chanel and Fendi. The mastermind has worked with Pierre Balmain, Jean Patou, Krizia, Charles Jourdan, and Valentino in the past. Born on 10 September 1933 in Hamburg, he was raised in an affluent household

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Shefali J. Jauhar and was the son of a wealthy businessman. He was safe guarded from the dire conditions of WWII as his father’s business interests lay in Germany through the firm Glücksklee-Milch GmbH. Karl had studied in private school and completed his secondary education in Lycée Montaigne in Paris where he specialized in drawing and history. In 1955, the International Wool Secretariat sponsored a design competition where Lagerfeld bagged an accolade in the ‘coat category’ which landed him to a prestigious oppor-

tunity to work with Pierre Balmain as his assistant. This was his first but an important milestone, decades before his international acclaim.After his three year experience withBalmain in 1958, he shifted to Jean Patou. There he became the haute couture designer for the next five years launching two collections a year. The first collection in July 1958 received negative responses. The press did not appreciate his collection but rather were flabbergasted by it. According to them the black cocktail dresses were cut so wide open

that it was a complete disaster, but in Karl’s defense the design silhouette for the season was called by the alphabet “K” for Karl that consisted of a straight line in front which then curved in at the waist in the back by a low fullness to the skirt. Despair followed him to the 1960 spring season where again his collection was not received as per his expectations. In his late 1960 collection he designed special tiny hats made of satin which rested on the cheek in pancake shaped circles known as “slaps in the face”. The collected received affirmative response but was not critically acclaimed. Karl wanted to refresh his creative juices so he took a break for two years and spent his time mostly on beaches. In 1963 Karl joined a roman couture house named ‘Tiziani’ by Evan Richards. The label had started off as couture and eventually branched towards Pret-a-porter. Together they sketched the first collection in 1963, ending up with some 90 outfits. Gina Lollobrigida, Doris Duke, and Princess Borghese were some of his clientele while he was the designer for Tiziani. He designed for the label six years before being replaced by Guy Douvier. Lagerfeld became a freelancer in 1964 for the French fashion house Chloé where initially per season he would design few pieces. The few pieces turned to the entire collection soon after. Karl also did a short design collaboration with Curiel in 1970 after the death of the roman couture house designer, Gigliola Curiel in 1969. In the 1973 spring collection of Chloe, Karl grabbed headlines for offering high fashion. He had displayed loose Spencer jackets and printed silk jackets. A unique

‘Surprise skirt’ was also designed by him in an ankle length pleated silk that was so loose it would easily be mistaken as a skirt instead of pants. From 1972 onwards he started his collaboration with Fendi, the Italian fashion house designing accessories, fur & clothing. Karl had also collaborated with Renzo Rosso, the founder of Diesel for a special denim collection for the Lagerfeld Gallery. Five of its pieces were presented in the Paris Fashion Week which were later sold in highly limited editions in Lagerfeld Galleries in Paris and Monaco & Diesel Denim Galleries in New York & Tokyo. In a statement after the show in Paris, Rosso said: “I am honored to have met this fashion icon of our time. Karl represents creativity, tradition and challenge, and the fact that he thought of Diesel for this collaboration is a great gift and acknowledgement of our reputation as the prêtà-porter of casual wear. Not everybody knows, but Chanel was on the verge of extinction in the 1960s Chanel’s fortunes was diminishing and was sustaining merely on the scent Number 5 alone. After Chanel’s death in 1971 her business still continued to drop further. House of Chanel came back to life and progressed forwards when Karl Lagerfeld was hired. With Karl’s assistance Chanel has once again restored its former glory.

in design, art & photography, he has surely outdone himself. He continues to surprise the world with his brilliant collections. His curiosity to explore unchartered territories in the field of business and creativity is what makes him so admired.

Karl is a highly accomplished individual. With his creative talent

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DESIGNER BY HEART, MIND, SOUL:

RITU PANDE

Shefali J. Jauhar

An established designer and a recognized member of the FDCI, Ritu Pande is quite an inspiration for women out there who chase their dreams and whose work resonates passion. On first meeting I could feel her pleasure she felt of being a designer. This is her story. These are the kind of designers people look forward in the industry today. In the designer’s words herself, “The basics of design can be taught but not the aesthetics”. Before she ventured into the design field, Ritu Pande was in the field of PR for a good 3-4 years before she moved to China. While pregnant, she met Li Xin, a designer who was open to have people in his studio. Having an instinct in fashion, Ritu decided to work and did so for a year and a half till fate brought her to Indonesia. This was the turning point in her life where an important decision had to be made- To continue working in the field of PR or leap towards the avenue of fashion. Sure enough, she made the right choice and opened her first store in Indonesia called ‘Ave Verum’ light. Dreams took off and there has been no turning back since. A graduate from LASALLE Chicago, design to her is a form of self expression, an inner voice which gives her joy. Ritu enjoys playing with surface texture techniques in her garments. She would erstwhile enjoy playing with drapes but they are no longer her signature. She shares similar aesthetics with Gaurav Gupta whose garments are not only innovative, quirky, whimsical but also communicative. In the international domain, she looks up to Ellie Saab whose garments involve alot of lace which is similar to her work. She hopes to reach at his pedestal someday. Currently stationed at Singapore, right now is an exciting time for her label. She has stepped in alot of markets like Singapore, Hong Kong which provides access to International waters. A very rational individual when it comes to business she quotes, “Fashion is also a profession and not just an art that can exist by itself ” Having to take part with well known designer shows under one platform like the Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week A/W’15 was an amazing experience for her. It not only gave her the chance to showcase her designs but also an insight into what other designers are doing. Fashion week for her was lots of serious business but an insightful and socializing portal too. It was great experiencing such a wonderful lady whose story is an inspiring one. One should learn from her fearlessness and perseverance. You are never too late to learn and never too old to start something new.

– Ritu Pande

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The basics of design can be taught but not the aesthetics.

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The Nepal Diary

Suvarna Singh

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Photographer - Suvarna Singh

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Photographer - Suvarna Singh

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Photographer - Suvarna Singh

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Photographer - Suvarna Singh

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Photographer - Suvarna Singh

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Photographer - Suvarna Singh

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Photographer - Suvarna Singh

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Munching in Mcleodganj Shefali J. Jauhar

tiny space to be seated at, with two tables and a counter quite close by. But somehow it felt cozy and warm and instilled the feel-good factor as I entered. With hot pancakes and that lovely homemade chocolate sauce it surley started my day on a good, rather a very good note. Nothing energizes you like breakfast, espically if you have delicious homemade pancakes and paninis After a long day of outdoor excursions we stepped into the at Woeser’s Cafe. Cutely displayed ‘Tibetan Kitchen’ which was absopastries and tarts on the window as you entered was surely a treat to lutely jam packed and after a great deal of waiting we managed to grab the eyes. I have to admit it was a Something that really appealed to me about the people, their simplicity in thought; they had handmade menus, comfortable seating arrangements with their primary focus on some lip-smacking food.

Photographer - Shefali J. Jauhar

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Photographer - Shefali J. Jauhar

a seat. There’s nothing as heavenly as indulging into Momos on a rainy day! After a great slumber we walked down for Breakfast to ‘Krazy Crepe Pancake ‘the next day. Never in my life have I been so delighted to enter a Breakfast Café when I saw that wooden shack of joy. As you entered, you would see shelves of books, most of them

Photographer - Shefali J. Jauhar

quick reads while others based on the Himalayan way of life! It was a warm Mountain Café with wooden flooring, chairs, and tables; practically everything made of wood. Seated by the window it would overlook the surreal Himalayan Ranges. At the corners you could sit at low tables with cushions serving as chairs. There was quite a charm sitting in this mountain café where there was a sense of calm amidst the lap of the mountains. Waffles and Pancakes being my hot favorite were ordered for the second day in a row but not to my disappointment, they were delicious! After a great deal of walking around in the hill side we were back to square one, hungry for lunch! We had heard a lot about a restaurant called ‘Common Ground’. It was on a secluded stretch of land away from the hustle-bustle of the city square. With similar wooden seating and aromas tantalizing the air I just knew that this would be the ultimate winner. After ordering from the delectable variety they offered we sat in an outdoor seating, joyfully facing the mountains. Although to our surprise the food came after long, a very very long time. Make that 2 hours precisely for a meal that would be devoured in less than 20 minutes. After all the stomach grumbles and tantrums the food

finally arrived. Just by the visual appeal I knew it was worth it, and it indeed was truly was a meal to remember. Nothing beats some fresh Tibetan bread with a juicy Pork and Chicken Curry. Words cannot explain the joyful songs my mouth sang. In the evening we had decided to go to ‘Carpe Diem’ for dinner. It was a restaurant on the rooftop with an ambience of its own kind. Decorated with prayer flags and handmade lanterns it definitely lifted the spirits of its visitors. People could sit down, have a coffee, and play board games till whatever time they decided. Serving a wide variety from Continental to North Indian to Chinese, it was quite a popular spot in town. Cordon Bleu- my latest craving was luckily on the menu and nonetheless yes, it was absolutely splendid.

Photographer - Shefali J. Jauhar

Moments like these is what makes a trip like this so fondly remembered. Goodbye Mcleodganj till the next time I visit you, hoping to hog some more of your good stuff! Photographer - Shefali J. Jauhar

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