A friend of mine had a birthday today and I was thinking about all that I have looked at over the years that could appeal to a woman's heart and soul (and sole, too?). Unfortunately, I cannot give her any of this, but it is indeed a list to lech for, don't you think? It is Mumbai-centric, but then, so am I!
1) Naina Jhaveri’s Paithani saris – She is devoted to the cause and has done much to revive the ancient art. Gorgeous drapes in pure silk, with wonderful gold and, surprisingly, silver threads used in the weave gleam like sheets of pliant metal. A must-have for any woman.
2) Melange – Wendell Rodrigues is rarely found in Mumbai, but when he is, grab all you can get. His translucent fabrics and bare-dare cuts demand a figure in sternly controlled shape, but are worth all the pain of the burn.
3) Ensemble – Tarun Tahiliani drapes, Sreela Debi organzas and much more, all in brilliant jewel tones and wonderfully, timelessly embellished. The quality shows in the textiles, the details and the finish.
4) Minawala – Carved turquoise and diamond earrings, a floral-cluster ruby and diamond ring and drops of the most exquisitely cut and polished emeralds are to die for. But wear them before you do, you will live for ever, like a princess.
5) Satya Paul – Saris are the eternal fashion statement for women, but these silk wonders are one-of-a-kind. Soft, vivid or subtle and always a tactile experience, the drape is a great gift from that special friend...or yourself.
6) Aditi – Bags and minaudiers are desirable, but a pochette from Aditi’s boutique is a treasure. Using heirloom techniques and luxe fabrics, the batuas have a timeless appeal that can match any outfit, traditional or modern.
7) Rocky S – Fusion wear at its best, Rocky S’s designs combine the old and the new seamlessly, exotically. Try the crop pants with a choli-style blouse or halter-tunics with intricately embellished saris. Or opt for the fabulous form-fit of the jeans, worn with a delicately zardosi top. But make sure you are of the right configuration.
8) Rajesh Pratap Singh – A classic white shirt is a must for any wardrobe. And his are perhaps the best to be had, combining meticulous tailoring with a style statement that is almost conventionally modern. some of his pieces incorporate the traditional - flowers in phoolpatti kaam in graduating sizes down a crisp white kurta...heaven!
9) Roopa Vohra – Thewa may be an age-old technique, but it is a very modern take on traditional jewels. Wear a choker with delicately glinting diamonds or opt for a pair of drop earrings with turquoise beads…it all goes with jeans or a sari.
10) Rinaldi – Shoes are the finishing touch to any ensemble and no one understands that better than Rina Shah...and me. Beautifully decorated and exquisitely balancing form and function, her flats, stilettos, wedges and mojris combine class with current trend.
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