Summer fashion wear - Cliq

Cliq magazine - Chennai's photography magazine - March 2011.

Making waves

Whether you love it or hate it, reality is that the beach season is upon us. It is more likely you will be planning your outdoor escapades where beachwear will be a mandate in your wardrobe. Let’s look at how you can make a statement this summer.

The good news is beachwear is a no-brainer. You just have to make sure you have a great outfit with coordinating sandals, a cool cover-up, a hat to protect your head, sunscreen(!!!) and some shades to protect your eyes.

Include the whole spectrum of colors in your wardrobe, go bright and vibrant!

Boys and Girls, footwear for your attire should be simple and colorful. The latest

collection of Flip-Flops and slides by Reebok, Converse and Adidas are apt as the fabric is easy to clean and you can take them into the water with no fear of ruining them.

Swimwear, ahem..for those daring and super fit souls; pay attention to what suit suits you. Choose suits with a 100% soft polyester composition which dry off faster. The women can play with couture such as off-shoulder dresses, kaftans, shorts, capris and skirts. Men, there are no boundaries in beachwear but keep away from full-sleeved shirts. Accessories such as beaded chains, hats, colorful sunshades add a healthy dose of quirky cool to your attire. With the excess exposure to the sun, concluding on an important tip for skin protection, as Baz Luhrmann puts it, “If I could offer you only one tip for the future, sunscreen would be it.”

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Water workout/Aqua aerobics

One of 'em awesome workouts I will recommend. Clearly, what makes it most effective is your instructor. A great class with Jeffrey. Best (yet gross) part, you can't tell if your sweating :P.

December 2010 Issue of Frappe, Chennai's cafe lifestyle magazine.

Aqua fit

Come New Year and we’re all engaged in making changes and New resolutions in our day-to-day routines. While resolutions are well-intentioned, unfortunately most of us fail at keeping them. Striving to achieve our fitness goals are probably the most difficult of the lot. January being the perfect season for change, it’s definitely the right time to transform your workout and alleviate boredom to meet those ‘size zero’ fitness goals. After all, muscles have memory and they can get accustomed to the same workout. An Aqua aerobics workout might be just what you need.

A first-of-its-kind in Chennai, the program is conducted by renowned Choreographer and Reebok Certified fitness instructor Jeffrey Vardon at Hotel Savera. Aqua Aerobics, as the name suggests, is a high-calorie burning workout which involves performing aerobics in the shallow part of the pool which uses the resistance of water and provides for an excellent whole body workout making it fun and exhilarating. As opposed to most workouts, aquatic exercises are known for their safety aspect as it is easier on the joints. The water cushions you thus preventing any damage or irritation to the joints because you are in a buoyant environment, where the buoyancy principle of the water does not allow the lower body to bear the body weight; hence the chance of an injury is minimal.

“The weather conditions of our city make this an apt workout opposing any other outdoor activity that makes you sweat.” says Jeffrey.

A huge plus is that one does not need to know swimming in order to take advantage of water aerobic exercising. This form of aerobics allows a person to get the same benefits as regular aerobic workouts, but it has many added advantages. The multiple benefits of an Aqua aerobics routine are therapeutic to the joints and work your muscular and cardiovascular system hugely. Aquatic exercise will not only make your heart stronger, but it also proves to be a powerful strength training workout with water being the resistance. The result: A workout that helps you build strength, balance, flexibility and endurance leaving you with a well-toned body.

“The motivation is high as it done in the pool which attracts a larger crowd and it helps one burn between 500 to 800 calories in one hour.” says Jeffrey.

While no single workout suits everyone needs, water aerobics comes close to conforming to most individual’s abilities and restrictions. Open to people of all age groups, one can adjust the pace of their movements and the exertion levels to suit their fitness ability while exercising every muscle and joint in the body, all at the same time. Based on a simple concept where the harder you push at the water, the harder it pushes back at you makes for a great workout. This multi-directional resistance provides for excellent rehabilitation for those who are suffering from injuries and cannot perform land aerobics.

Water aerobics is also particularly beneficial for those who are over-weight or who have not exercised for a while making this an easy way to get back and stay in an exercise program.

Overall, aqua aerobics is a fantastic opportunity to get in to shape and have fun while doing it. Besides, what can be more fun than splashing around in water with friends, while getting a workout?

With something to offer for everyone, we hope this has whetted your appetite!

Ritika Arya - DESIGN COUTURE

An interview with a good friend and a talented Chennai-based designer, Ritika Arya Jain was interviewed for "The TAXI Magazine" November 2010 issue on her latest Autumn-winter (Ahem, Indian winter) collection.

More on her line...below:

A DASH OF ROMANCE

By Amrita Samant

Gorgeous chiffons, crinkly cottons and ravishing Satins.. Ritika Arya Jain’s Autumn-winter collection 2010 comes uber chic and classy!

This young and vivacious designer, after having completed her BA in Fashion Design from the University College of Creative Arts, Kent and an M.A in design management from London College of Fashion, has been spinning new collections over the past two years under the label “Ritika Arya Jain”. Focusing on western and Indo-western, this season’s colors include shades of Black, Bottle green, Midnight blue and not to forget, her favorite – classic whites.

“My A/W 2010 line is an amalgamation of attitudes of both modern and classic per

sonalities. It expresses a concept of feminity that is sensually romantic and contemporary. The inspiration is the urban woman who is independent. “says Ritika.

Playing with cool contours with a hint of adventure, her new line has an element of class with styles developed on a rather glistening yet minimalist look suited for work wear and evening wear. This collection blends cottons (designer’s signature fabric), silk-cottons, chiffons, flower motifs & satins. Her silhouettes are fresh and free-flowing while sprinkled with design trends such as pleats, pin-tucks & frills.

“The collection captures the duality of the modern woman through lines and silhouettes, fabric and cut, style and substance. It consists of both casual and formal Indo-western wear for social gatherings and events.”

Making fashion bend to her rules, Ritika has created a range of Casual and Formal shirts and dresses with oversized and small checks in combination. Low-back chiffon dresses with broad gathers forming a satin belt, crisp white tunics with rolled up sleeves, pastel-shaded chiffon tops, tunics cinched at the waist with bodice detailing and the prints softly peeping through sheer box pleats, cotton work-wear shirts with delicate frills and pin-tucked tops & dresses are some signature pieces in her new line.

“Along with representing elegance, Fashion must always be amazing and personal for a woman.”

Innovating fresh styles in every collection, a few new designs include braided neck lines, triple-fold sleeves and double collars. Ritika’s collection is available at CO, Rehane, Nungambakkam.

Spa Magic

Magic! I've been fascinated by magic since I was a little girl and shamelessly still am..
This has got to be one of my favorite write-ups for all the fringe benefits I received to write it :P
Another one for "The TAXI Magazine", December 2010 issue, I distinctly remember this coming my way during a very stressed out period. Alas, I can say it was well-deserved..

Spa Magic
By Amrita Samant


“Sometimes the cure for restlessness is rest.” Colleen Wainwright

For some years now, we’ve been using phrases that try to sum up to what Spa treatments are all about. “Total health and wellness” and “Create harmony of body, mind and spiri

t” as

enticing as they may sound, do not give these treatments their due credit.

We, at Taxi, decided to explore some of the real experiences offered within these spas that let you leave feeling better than when you arrived. Featuring the signature treatments from leading city spa’s, its now time to indulge in some extravagant and luxurious body bliss and spoil yourselves silly!



Face glam

Originated solely with the intention of improving cosmetic appearance, Facials, today, are at a tangent as they are combined with relaxation techniques to improve overall hea

lth of the skin.

For a signature facial treatment, we chose Page 3 Salon known for their exclusive skin treatments featuring Keraskin products from L’Oreal International. Their unique approach to facial treatment allows them to provide an experience that is prescribed exclusively for you. The therapist starts with an analysis of your skin’s unique requirements and then suggests the most beneficial facial to restore you to your radiant best. After settling on what is called the Glow Floral Therapy, a specialized one created to restore the radiance and glow of your skin, the blissful session began.

I gave myself up into the friendly Kerafacialist’s hands that started my facial with the application of a cleanser and toner. This was followed by a long, languorous and really soothing Olive scrub massage which had only a hint of its fragrance. On re-activating t

lowers, was applied. This was accompanied by a divine back and hand rub that leaves you asking for more. At the end of this hour long elaborate ritual, Immuniste anti-ageing serum is applied to the skin leaving it feeling absolutely reborn!he blood circulation, the floral peel, which contains mild flower acids from hibiscus f

Relaxation period: 60 minutes

Perks: Created with the goodness of nature, this facial hydrates your skin like never before, resulting in a beautiful and radiant glow from deep within.





Treat for your tresses

Hair, one of your most pampered assets, is the essence of any classic hair-do. And for this, one needs to treat it well. What better place for healthy hair strategies than the most

powerful hairdressing brand in the world, Toni & Guy.

As I entered this refined environment with exquisite hair styling products on display all around me, I was reassured on seeing a Top Stylist ready to consult me for my Hair Spa treatm

ent.

After diagnosing my hair for a minute and interrogating me on personal hair care, my stylist drew up a detailed nourishment programme best suited for my hair type.

The “Hydration” treatment began with a hair wash and a light massage. All products used in this treatment are from System Professional, a new premium hair care range from Wella Professionals, exclusively personalized to the clients’ individual needs.
The next step, a mixture of the ‘Moist dry hair’ treatment mask and System Professional’s exclusively formulated infusions that compliment the treatment mask was made and applied to the roots and hair. This was followed by a long and gentle head and neck massage. A ten-minute steam was given right after to help the cream penetrate into the scalp. The hair spa treatment came to an end with a light r

inse and ‘cold-drying’ hair to retain its moisture.

Relaxation period: 60 minutes

Perks: Apart from strengthening the hair follicles, nourishing the roots and revitalizing your scalp, the treatment works like silken fingers that work their magic on the roots of your hair.


Fish feet

We always take our feet for granted. Most of the time they are seen as tools to get us wherever we need to go. But suddenly, after a long period when our feet have to be exposed, we remember we should have taken good care of them all year long. Going the natural way, we at Taxi explored the Fish Pedicure at Kenko, a reflexology and fish spa which is the latest addition to the city’s spas.

The spa is a haven of peace and tranquility that invites you to relax almost instantaneously. As nervous as I was to let little fish gnaw at my feet, I was assured that these little fish, called Garra rufa fish (also popularly known as Doctor Fish) imported for pedicures specifically, do not bite. I was told that these fish gently gnaw into the dead skin and clear away the unwanted top layer of the soles of the feet. So before I could get started, a certain enzy

me was sprayed on my feet to attract the fish. As soon as I dipped my feet in the fish tank, I saw them all charging towards me and began nibbling at my feet, which surprisingly left me tickled. I avoided looking at them devour into my dead skin cells only to feel multiple tingling sensations at the same time.
These fish can wonderfully work on calluses and other tough growth on the feet. They just nibble into them and soften the feet. The fish pedicure is also complimented with a ten-minute shoulder massage.


Relaxation period: 30 minutes

Perks: Fish pedicures give your feet a fresh, soft and supple look naturally and keep various foot conditions at bay.

Effleurage-d/Therapeutic touch

From the early days where European Cave paintings depicted what seems to be like the medical use of therapeutic touch, till date where massage has developed and taken several forms, today there are around 70 methods of massage therapy that have evolved with influences from around the world.

With stress playing a large role in the quality of our lives, experts suggest that one of the best ways to cope with it is a relaxing massage, and that is precisely what we did.

Isha Life, a premium fitness brand, provides a gamut of fitness services that includes a spa, branded Shambhavi. Their extensive menu of services left me perplexed. Going by their recommendation, I had decided to try out their Swedish massage. Accompanied by their certified masseuse, I was asked to choose from their own brand of organic aroma oils. Deciding on Lemongrass oil, I decided to unwind and let my masseuse rid me off my aches. Swedish massages are considered the best for their smooth, gliding strokes called effleurage and other moves such as kneading, stretching and tapping. A blissful hour full of firm but gentle pressure applications, this massage focuses on each body part working its way up. A head and facial massage brings this heavenly treatment to an end.

Relaxation period: 60 minutes

Perks: The main purpose of this massage is to increase the oxygen flow in the blood and release toxins from the muscles. It also stretches your ligaments and tendons keeping them supple and pliable. Bringing you to de-stress mode, this treatment is sure to make you snooze right after.


Nail trail

Our final stop was to treat our fingernails to some royalty. And the apt place to do the same is Influence Spa. Redeemed as a top spa in the city for their impeccable services,
I was asked to choose the manicure service of my choice. Having done that, I was seated on big, plush recliner seat with my hands dipped in luke-warm water-filled bowls on either side.

The state-of-the-art equipment becomes more pronounced when my recliner was converted into a massage chair by the click of a button. Sitting back, I closed my eyes and let my mind drift with the instrumental Balinese music playing softly. The manicure started with softening my hands in warm water containing salt and shampoo. A cuticle cream was applied to moisten the nails for removing dead cells. Using a scrub, I was given a 10 minute hand massage followed by a cream pack. The last step included moisturizing my hands and touching up my nails with a French manicure.

Relaxation Time: 30 minutes

Perks:

Influence’s signature manicure keeps your nails looking healthy and strong while making your hands look aesthetically attractive.

Season's Reasons - Accessorizing

Been a while since I clicked on 'edit' here.

With keen interest on consulting folks on dressing and fashion, this article was a no-brainer supplemented with interviews with the best designers in town.. Written for "The TAXI magazine", Feb 2011 issue, my original heading wasn't retained. :S

Diva-licious!

A little bit of sparkle, a little bit of spice, a little bit of silver to make it sassy nice!

Some one once said, “Dress for the life you want, not the life you have”. Dressing up is like a good yoga class that allows you to be present in the moment, to revel in the light of ‘now’. For those of you who delight in dressing, the selection of the outfit, the styling and the preparation are all part of a grand event. With the spring/summer collections coming through to fulfill our inner fashion cravings, there is a lot to be said about the

simplicity of a Spring ensemble. The new season gives you an opportunity to rejuvenate your creative side by mixing textures, adding outwear and stylish side notes to suit the

season. The runway is full of boots, statement jewelery, figure-flattering leggings and sequins, but its those key items this season that add to the oomph factor.

When choosing the key pieces to stay in vogue this season, remember that one key item can update your wardrobe entirely and keep you on trend through the whole season. It is a better idea to invest in a key piece you desire than buy a bunch of inexpensive pieces you will have to replace each season.

We, at taxi, decided to help you stay at the top of the game and bring the season’s must-haves to the fore from the experts

themselves.

Considering that there is a thin line of difference between what you need, what you want and what you shouldn’t live without, we have covered all of the hottest fashion trends this season.

Accessories

Novelty accessories a.k.a statement jewelery are taking centre stage this season. The key is not to over do it. Wearing novelty accessories is a great way to bring fun and youthfulness to your ensemble. Accessories can also be used to accentuate your body. They can also hel

p create different illusions like a long rope necklace can lengthen your upper torso. This season’

s hottest fashion trend nod goes to the uber stylish boots a.k.a booties. Whether you are running your errands around town, going shopping or even a lunch date, pair these flat-heeled booties with skinny jeans or jeggings and a long tee and it will instantly give your outfit a natural and effortless lift. These can be pair

ed with work-place attire as well. Booties go well with an off-shoulder dress and patte

rned tights and it is the perfect ticket to get those heads turning. Absolutely sensational!

Haute Couture

This season is rushing back in time to highlight the retro-glam look. Maxi dresses

and skirts, pleated tops, wide-legged, flared trousers most common with a high-waist

ed cut and elegant jumpsuits, in a wide palette of colors, from crisp white and cream to bold colors and oriental prints. Citrus bright colors and eclectic prints are making their way back to welcome the summer sun.

Leggings and patterned tights are doing their rounds this season. A good leg-hugging fit without too many gathers around the knees or ankles speak for its fit. They look best when worn with layers. Team it up with a long blouse, tunic or cardigan, a scarf wrapped loosely around your neck, a big hobo bag and a pair of long boots and you are ready to go!

Let’s hear what the city’s top designers have to say about this season’s key fashion investments.

Sidney Sladen, Chennai’s designer extraordinaire who has catered to the wardrobes of the who’s who in the South Indian Movie industry, is of the opinion that this season’s best fashion investment is a gorgeous pair of shoes. Shoes have a special place in every woman’s closet. “A nice pair of pumps makes for a great investment while Clogs are making a big comeback this summer. Coming to clothing, wide-legged trousers and jumpsuits are also a must-have for this season.”

Chennai’s very own young and hot designer Vivek Karunakaran gave us his views on the season’s hot couture. “We need to brighten up our wardrobes, swap that Little Black Dress for a much nicer and brighter tone of color. When it comes to personal styling, its time to play mix- master. Put together different elements to create your own individual look such as a blazer over bright colored pants, a sequined tuxedo over a dress which is quite contradictory. Speaking of contradictions, pair your fanciest dress with boots setting a feminine look juxtaposed with a stronger appeal to it. When it comes to accessorizing, let your hair be your best accessory with the various up-dos.”

Nazia Syed, the city’s very own engineer turned fashion designer shared her views on the same.”Sequins are ruling the season. Sheer lace tops, a short gold shift dress are a must-have. This season’s hottest fashion trends go back

to the uber stylish ankle boots a.k.a booties. Suede pumps also raise the trend meter. Brooches are a great accessory this season.”

Rehane,a designer who needs no introduction shared her ideas on the season’s must-haves – “With the ‘latest bag-craze’ culture doing its rounds, it’s high time we do away with the newest fads, step into our grandma’s closet and pull out those charming and alluring Vintage bags. “

“With Comfort preceding style, ballerinas are a good investment for an evening out.”

Shoes make the man!

Men's shopping column - Shopper's Link - March 2011 issue.

Shoes make the man!

The task of choosing the right footwear has become an indispensable requirement, not just to remain in vogue, but to project the right image in the appropriate setting.

Here’s a simple guide to finding the right pair of shoes to match your extensive wardrobe.

The Classic Oxford shoes

These traditional leather shoes have been around for a very long time designed in an assorted array of styles (namely kilties, wingtip, saddle, open laced and closed laced) and fabrics to suit the needs of the occasion. They are lace-up shoes that end below the ankle and most of them have a cap of leather sewn over the toe area. These shoes are a great match for corporate wear or a formal occasion.

Loafers

Loafers are slip-on shoes without any lace. They can be categorized as formal

and semi-formal footwear based on its design and style. Loafer shoes are a versatile choice and come in a range of patterns. While teaming it with casual wear, wearing socks with these shoes are optional. Flat leather loafers or suede loafers can be paired with jeans, khakis, three-fourths and cargo pants. One can also team up ‘bit loafers’ (with a mettle link across the middle) or ‘penny loafers’ (with a leather band across the top) with linen pants and a button down shirt to add that formal touch.

Boat Shoes

Boat shoes are very similar to loafers but are more suited to casual wear because of their varicolored designs. They can be worn with jeans, pants, chinos, khakis, shorts and three fourth pants.

Sandals

Sandals and flip flops are the most comfortable choice of footwear for men. Waterproof sandals, also called thongs, make great footwear for a day out by the pool or at the beach. Sports sandals, available at Adidas, Reebok, Nike, Puma and Bata, are well suited for outdoor sports activities. To achieve a formal look, leather sandals are a great choice as they have a more conventional look. While open toe sandals are a favorite, one must bear in mind some grooming tips:

Ensure feet are clean before wearing open toe shoes.

• Trim toe nails regularly and file them too

• Keep feet moisturized to prevent cracks

• Pedicures are not just for women. Get a pedicure at least once in three months to keep your feet clean and bacteria free.

Sports shoes

It is very important to choose the right sports shoe for exercises/sports to avoid any sports injury. Remember to ask the salesman to provide shoes based on the activity i.e. aerobics, tennis etc. Ensure you buy your shoes during the latter half of the day as your foot tends to broaden through the day.

Also ensure that there are no shoe defects. Avoid buying shoes on sale as the cushioning effect would have reduced over time and could result in injuries. The leading brands such as Adidas, Nike, Reebok, Puma, Bata are the best stops for sports shoes.

Tête-à-Tête with Nivya Babu

Tête-à-tête with Nivya Babu from the April-May issue of Shopper's Link below:

Her collection is unique and definitely worth checking out!! Click here to take a look..

Elegance in exclusivity

With a flair for art and education from a very young age, Nivya Babu is a young and talented entrant into the world of design. Having a deep-rooted interest in Indian fabrics, Nivya recently launched her own collection of exclusive Saris. With a background in Fine Arts and a post-graduation in Organizational Leadership from Melbourne, Nivya's passion for art, tradition and ethnicity drove her to design her collection that spells a traditional yet contemporary touch. Designing Saris for all occasions and age groups, she focuses on maintaining exclusivity of her designs thus making each piece unique. Simply put, her array of designs are classy, contemporary and clean.

1. Fashion to you is...

reflective.

2. Biggest challenge you face in designing



Understanding fabrics, as they have a mind of their own.

3. You would love to design for...

for the common woman to whom a saree is appealing.


4. Your most prized possession:

My Car

5. Your style inspiration comes from..

Almost everything.

6. Your style statement:

With Ethnic wear I like to go completely traditional, With western wear, I like to try new styles.

7. Favorite Indian shopping spot?

Janpath and Sarojini Nagar, Delhi.


8. What makes your designs stand apart?

My designs spell elegance, simplicity and tradition in its fabrics, colors and designs.

Men's Denim Guide

The latest column on 'Men's shoppping' has been included in Shopper's Link Magazine for the last 3 months.

This one here (the original one, ofcourse) is from the March Issue. - Denim Guide for Men.

"Denim Guide"

When it comes to men’s couture, there’s no doubt that jeans is the greatest inventions of all time. Buying the perfect pair is one thing, but accumulating a closet full of ill-fits is another.

Jeans are by far the most practical, adaptable and most desired garments for men. With various styles, cuts and prices to suit each one’s body types, taste and budgets, read on to discover how to choose an uber cool pair.

Slim/Straight fits are the most commonly available fits and yet classic. These are available in mid-rise, low-rise and ultra-low rise for those with lean,v-shaped bodies who like their clothes to be fitted.

Baggy fits spell comfort and are meant for those who abhor fashion’s latest and instead prefer a more relaxed and laid-back look. Pay attention to the length as these jeans are meant to sit low on your waists. A word of caution: these fits tend to add volume to your size and are best suited for Lean and tall body shapes.

Boot cut fits bring ‘Retro’ back but should be sported with caution. Steer away from wide-leg openings that resemble hipsters. They suit guys with a heavy build and make you look slimmer.

Knowing what style suits you can help you save time while shopping. Also remember to sit, squat, stretch and walk during trials to gauge your comfort."

Red Haute

Come February and our teeny-boppers are making the most of the mushy season... :)

"Red" being the theme for the Feb issue of 'Cliq', Chennai's themed photography magazine, this one is for you scarlet-lovers.

"Whether your single or happily married, whether you celebrate this love-infused season with a romantic tete-a-tete or with your BFF for a wild night out, this is the time to pamper yourself to a fun and flirty make-over.

Red, the color of the season, symbolizes love, fire and flamboyance, but just how much of this color can you handle?

A recent interesting study states that red makes women appear more attractive and desirable. But does this help translate into a better date? In doubt, opt for a red dress. Ladies, vamp up your style with a drape dress or a strapless satin dress. Opt for striking scarlet tones with lashings of Gold accessories to embrace a vintage look. For variety, reverse the formula with a different dark colored dress and pair it with Red pumps and subtle red accessories.

Men, as much as we want to choose this shade, stay away from the ‘fire-engine’ shade of red. Choose colors in the family of red such as burgundy, vermillion, wine-red and maroon.

Wear only one to two elements of red. Avoid matching accessories, shoes and make-up to your outfit. It would be ideal for men to keep the color to a minimum. Ladies, your hair is your best accessory! Watch out for the latest up-dos.

Don’t compromise on style but be sure to pay a little extra attention to grooming yourself and you are sure to paint the town red!"

Foot-Fetish

Pavers England Review for Frappe, October 2010:

Pavers England

Flip Flops are fine and dandy while ballerinas are always adorable, but any fashion soldier knows the key to a stunning look is a shoe that’s equal parts stylish and comfortable, which is why we have a reason to celebrate the opening of a Pavers England Showroom at Express Avenue.

Bold, graceful and versatile enough to pair with outfits on both ends of the fashion spectrum, Pavers England is proud to open its 10th franchise store in the city, bringing International Men & Women’s’ retail footwear experience to the Indian consumer.

This unique space reflects the global design store concept, echoing the sensibility of the Pavers brand.

On the occasion Utsav Seth, CEO & MD, Pavers England said “We are delighted to open our exclusive franchise store at Express Avenue Mall, one of India’s most vibrant malls to showcase our world class products to the residents of Chennai. The collection is inspired by global fashion trends, keeping in mind the sensibilities of the discerning customers.”

He further added "We will be coming up with twenty four exclusive stores by the end of this financial year, located at all the major cities across India. The company also plans to further strengthen its market presence by opening fifty exclusive franchise outlets by year 2012".

Mr.Yavar Dhala, MD Forward Group & Joint Venture Partner Pavers England said "Forward Group is honored to have partnered with Pavers UK, as Pavers has brought international experience to one of largest vertically integrated Leather Tanning Export Division."

The Pavers England collection complements every facet of lifestyle offering styles from comfortable flats (Life and Lady Flex Range), elegant and sophisticated (Signature Range) to fashionable Heels (Dazzle, Staccato) amongst others making Pavers England a perfect solution to create a fashion statement with flair and comfort.

Customer Quotes:

“The collection at Pavers is a nice amalgamation of style and comfort. The overall ambience and customer service is brilliant. The product speaks leaps and bounds about the brand and the quality. The most convenient part is that I can float from work to an evening out in the same pair making it suitable for all occasions”. Apurva, Merchandiser

“The store is simply fabulous, great products and good quality. I purchased a pretty pair of flats and I really like the fine detailing given. I would recommend the rhinestone studded elaborate collection as a great fashion investment.” Rehane, Designer.

“My purchase at Pavers England is a classic buy proven to be complete value for money. I received great customer service with real good advice. Being my first time purchase, I am very happy with the quality, comfort and the look of the shoe”, Vinay.

The voice of the customer says it all, so those of you with a strong fetish for shoes, Pavers are the exact place to put your right foot forward!

Dear Choco-holics,

This one's for you:

Reviewed for Frappe, October 2010 issue..

Lots of chocolate for me to eat…!

All you need is love. But a little chocolate now and then doesn't hurt." - Charles M. Schulz

Amrita Samant

Right from ancient times when cocoa beans were used as currency by the Aztecs, till date, when they are mixed, melted and eaten, chocolates are irresistible for most of us. Crunchy or nut-filled, caramelised and sweet or dark and bitter or fruit-flavoured, chocolate is craved by people of all age groups.

As I first walked into Le Chocolatier on Harrington Road, I was amazed - besides the great variety of temptations on display, what caught my attention was the range of unusual and strong flavours married to chocolate and the outcome was a pleasant surprise. The fragrance was overwhelming. It had a rich, smooth creamy touch and guaranteed sweetness in taste that would make each bite sinfully delicious; I knew I was headed towards a chocolate overdose. With over 20 different kinds of chocolate, the variety ranged from fine truffles to peanut butter flavoured chocolate pebbles - chocoholics can indulge blissfully to experiment and find their favourites.

Le Chocolatier houses everything chocolate - figurines, spoons, tablets and truffles, in flavours ranging across fruits, nuts, herbs, and spices. While relishing these pieces of art, the Chief Confectioner Boopesh P, patiently took me through the finer details. The ingredients, imported from Belgium and Singapore, are highly rich in cocoa (58.3%) and need to be maintained at controlled temperatures between 18 and 20 degrees Celsius, thus creating an unadulterated chocolate experience.

When it came to taste it served up exactly the experience I was expecting. The combinations were what I liked most because of my preference for chocolate with interesting fillings. The Butter Truffles were soft and gooey and made a lovely contrast to the hard, thin covertures that melt on your tongue. The shiny-textured Bianco Mocca started with a good light crunch and revealed a distinct light toasted peanut flavour.

Two of the chocolates made an impression that remained unmatched - the nut-paste filled Arabian chocolate and the Bianco Rice Crispies which was both heady and fresh. I was also surprised by how harmonised the mint chocolates were; usually mint is a little overpowering.

Le Chocolatier also offers a sugar-free variety of chocolates to cater to the diabetic and health conscious segment.

With the festive season in queue, Le Chocolatier has a stunning range of gift hampers that are hard to resist. After saddling my stock, enough to last me a week, I bid farewell to this little heaven on earth, with a sugar kick that had me craving for more.

Shoppers Link - Influence Spa review

Yelloo!

Amidst all the chaos, I finally made time to get this blog started...

My posts are ideally original reviews written for various magazines I freelance for as an Image Consultant.

Sharing one of my earlier reviews on a fancy city-based elite spa, "Influence" has all the right elements to enhance your spa-experience. Definitely, a good variety of services to choose from. Their recliner seats for manicures and pedicures are trippy!

This review below was featured in Shopper's Link July 2010 issue.

"Influence Spa

On entering this luxurious and elite spa, I felt a serene calmness about the graceful

interiors. The stylish yet contemporary ambience promotes peace of body and mind with

contemporary music and natural scent. Done up in shades of off-white and a touch of

grey, the first thing to strike you is the oomph-factor of the interiors. The warm faces

at the reception only lure you further into indulging in their signature therapies listed

on their leather bound service cards. Influence spa, started in 2009 has state of the art

equipment and services providing a perfect blend of the traditional and modern approach

to beauty, rejuvenation and relaxation.

Known as an exotic day spa designed to pamper the body, mind and soul, with 12 service

rooms (including couple rooms), their ample variety of services will keep you busy for a

while before you settle on any one. The gamut of services available includes massages,

Signature therapies, facial therapies, scrubs, wraps, nail, hair care and foot care. The

staff has been specially bought in from Bali and has been internationally trained for the

services.

Their renowned services are the “Vichy Shower Massage” which includes 12 shower jets

positioned horizontally along the tension points in your body where the pressure could

be adjusted according to requirements. Another specialty is the “Chroma Hydro Thermal

Therapy” also known as Color therapy uses colored lights (in a water bed!) and heated

water to balance the body’s energy. Other popular services include the Luxury Gold

facial and the Gold body scrub leaving your skin soft and bright, the deep tissue massage,

the oxygen facial therapy, the papaya whitening scrub & wrap (especially for our

summer tan) and the chocolate indulgence pedicures. Some unique services provided are

couples therapies, Thai massages, Wine and Rose petal bath, reflexology and detoxifying

therapies. All products used are from the French brand Thalgo

While their treatments provide a relaxing retreat for body, mind & soul, let their

exceptional service restore your balance and profoundly influence your psyche!"

Hi folks,

Amidst all the chaos, I finally made time to get this blog started...

My posts are ideally my original reviews written for various magazines I freelance for, as an Image Consultant. Apart from the reviews, the posts include a

Sharing one of my earlier reviews on a fancy city-based elite spa, "Influence" has all the right elements to be a great spa. A good variety of services to choose from.

This was featured in Shopper's Link July 2010 issue.

"Influence Spa

On entering this luxurious and elite spa, I felt a serene calmness about the graceful

interiors. The stylish yet contemporary ambience promotes peace of body and mind with

contemporary music and natural scent. Done up in shades of off-white and a touch of

grey, the first thing to strike you is the oomph-factor of the interiors. The warm faces

at the reception only lure you further into indulging in their signature therapies listed

on their leather bound service cards. Influence spa, started in 2009 has state of the art

equipment and services providing a perfect blend of the traditional and modern approach

to beauty, rejuvenation and relaxation.

Known as an exotic day spa designed to pamper the body, mind and soul, with 12 service

rooms (including couple rooms), their ample variety of services will keep you busy for a

while before you settle on any one. The gamut of services available includes massages,

Signature therapies, facial therapies, scrubs, wraps, nail, hair care and foot care. The

staff has been specially bought in from Bali and has been internationally trained for the

services.

Their renowned services are the “Vichy Shower Massage” which includes 12 shower jets

positioned horizontally along the tension points in your body where the pressure could

be adjusted according to requirements. Another specialty is the “Chroma Hydro Thermal

Therapy” also known as Color therapy uses colored lights (in a water bed!) and heated

water to balance the body’s energy. Other popular services include the Luxury Gold

facial and the Gold body scrub leaving your skin soft and bright, the deep tissue massage,

the oxygen facial therapy, the papaya whitening scrub & wrap (especially for our

summer tan) and the chocolate indulgence pedicures. Some unique services provided are

couples therapies, Thai massages, Wine and Rose petal bath, reflexology and detoxifying

therapies. All products used are from the French brand Thalgo

While their treatments provide a relaxing retreat for body, mind & soul, let their

exceptional service restore your balance and profoundly influence your psyche!"