Indian Fashion Scene | Posh Pari Couture By Designer Tina Tandon

Fashion designer and friend, Tina Tandon is by far one of the most talented Indian fashion designers in the industry today. Her vision is unsurpassed and her balance of eastern and western elements could not be more perfect. On the rare occasions that I transform myself into an all out Indian Barbie doll, I specifically look for Indian garments with panache, glamour and sophistictaion. Tina Tandon's Indian fusion line, Posh Pari is my first recommendation for any Indian diva or Indian fashion aficionado looking to glam it up but still be chic. Tina is currently in the process of designing a custom made gorgeous fusion dress for me and I cannot wait for the dress to arrive. To view the entire Posh Pari collection, click here.

Copyright ©2010 Haute Mimi International LLC. All rights reserved.

International Diva | Incorporating INDIA into Your Wardrobe

You’ve been inspired by the music, the songs and beats, and of course, the movies. (Let’s face it, you loved ‘Slumdog Millionaire.’) With thousands of years of history and a country fitting millions of people, India has been growing not only in popularity but in fashion influences as well. If you’re ever thinking of visiting the country, be sure to pack your essentials. Here are a few ways that you can include a little bit of India into your wardrobe to be stylish and fit for a great visit. (Dasgupta for VOGUE India)

Paisley Prints If you were to compare China and India, then this is definitely comparable to the Yin Yang symbol; the Paisley design is something that has been a part of Persian and Indian origin for a long time- its design is similar to that of a kidney shape and the pattern is often used for things such as weddings and other occasions. If possible, a little bit of this on any outfit or accessory will definitely make your look more unique and just as fashionable for the country.

Kurtis This traditional Indian clothing essential (i.e. Tunic) has been popping up everywhere and has been redefined many times. With various colors and different types of designs, you can easily match any kurti with white, black or different colored pants. If you’re headed out on a tour bus and ready to set your sights, then these would be a great way to be fashionable and comfortable on your trip.

Bangles the one piece of jewelry that perhaps everyone in the world knows about from India is bangles- stacked up and layered, these traditional bracelets come in a variety of colors and designs that can add elegance to any outfit. These are a must-have if you are trying to incorporate India into your wardrobe. Best of all, because they come in different colors and types, you can easily collect them and wear them on more than your trip and other occasions. Chamak by Priya Kakkar Set of 2 Pearl Bangles Via Avelle

Indian Shawls What sets Indian-styled shawls and scarves as different from others are the intricate design and color that comes from it. Known for their bright and embroidered colors, these shawls can add a bright effect to any normal outfit, such as white. Also India is known for it's cashmere so make sure to stock up on this essential on your next trip to India. Moyna Tulle Scarf With Paillettes

So regardless of whether you’re posing for a picture in front of the Taj Mahal, going through Red Fort, or the Golden Temple, you can include a little bit of foreign beauty from India right into your wardrobe- not only would this add color, but also style, and a different aspect of fashion that you still have yet to try.

Stylehive Thursday | Lakme Fashion Week Presents Fashion For Relief: "Mai Mumbai"

For the past 10 years, Lakme Fashion Week has been India's premier fashion and trade event. The show, held twice yearly, showcases the country's vast, unique talent in an extravaganza bursting with color and tradition. This past month's showcase, however, featured one of the most significant events in India's fashion repertoire. Mai Mumbai ("I am Mumbai"), a "Fashion For Relief" benefit was held as a tribute to victims of the Mumbai terror attacks last November. Supermodel Naomi Campbell created "Fashion For Relief" (the first show was at New York Fashion Week to benefit victims of Hurricane Katrina) and organized the Lakme show as well. India's most recognized models, athletes, Bollywood stars, and business leaders proudly took the runway in creations by both Indian and international designers as a way of showing worldwide support and gratitude.


With overwhelming participation from Indian designers like Rohit Bal, Ritu Kumar, and Sabyasachi Mukherjee (who you may remember from NYFW Spring '09) and looks from the likes of Diane von Furstenberg, Oscar de la Renta, YSL, and Carolina Herrera, the show brought sparkle and spotlight to a country and a cause, making the event one that will never be forgotten. Looks from the runway are available for purchase on eBay with all proceeds going to families of the 11/26 attacks. The event took place at Vikram Chatwal's Dream Hotel in Cochin, India. Click here to see the slideshow to see looks from the runway! -StyleHive

Dare to be Dramatic

It’s no secret - Indian women are by far the most glamorous women around. We love big jewels, vivacious clothes and dramatic makeup. It’s quite disappointing to see women here in the states resorting to sweats in favour of flowing chiffon sundresses and oversized mirrored bangles. So why be boring, ladies? Dare to be dramatic, here’s how:

Beauty:

• Two words - Fake lashes. I cannot live without fake lashes. They just add that finishing touch to the makeup regime. I don’t see many women taking advantage of this not-so-secret beauty secret. Bollywood actresses aren’t born with lush, dreamy lashes, they glue them on and you can too. I prefer MAC falsies but you can find fakes at the chemist or any beauty supply store.
• Bronzed skin is also an Indian vixen signature. I’m personally as pale as Casper in the winter months, but no one knows that (until now) because I’m a devotee of bronzer. Indian women usually shy away from bronzer thinking ‘oh my, I don’t want to be darker’, but really, bronzer not only adds definition it makes you look healthier and mind you, skinnier. Just sweep bronzer right below the apples of your cheeks and voila, you’ll have an envious bone structure.
• Kohl line eyes are huge right now. Especially the Amy Winehouse winged look. I don’t recommend going that thick but a little wing is ultra glam as well as flattering for our almond shaped eyes. I like liquid liner for this look although I recognize that it’s incredibly hard to put on and I still smudge even after 13 years of putting on makeup. But the trick here is to draw the wing first then go in for the kill. Also, don’t forget your colour contacts to really make a statement.
• Now to the most important feature of an Indian goddess - the hair. Long, flowing, luscious tresses have been coveted throughout history. Indian women especially have the most amazing hair. Make your hair red-carpet ready with an Indian secret that’s been passed down from generation to generation, coconut oil. I personally use parachute coconut oil (I know, chuckle away sweetie). It really works wonders, not only is my hair silky smooth, it’s shiny and spectacular. I suffer from dry hair, and once I started using coconut oil, my hair is Pantene-worthy, and then some. Just rub into the scalp once a week, keep it on for 2 hours, rinse really well and you’re good to go.

Fashion:

The colours that work best on us (you’ve all been asking) are Fuschia, Red, Persian Blue, Navy Blue, Gold, Black and White. Take a cue from old Bollywood actresses. Oversized sunglasses with a little gloss can be a saviour on those days you’d like to hide. Also you can never go wrong with an embellished tunic paired with long white pants and jewelled sandals (very VIVRE). Make use of your “Indian Closet”, if you’re an NRI you know what I am referring to. All those Indian clothes that are taken out for dinners, weddings, etc are just sitting there. You spend thousands on Indian couture and yet it’s pretty much useless. I didn’t realize how extensive my Indian closet was until a friend of mine, (who happens to be Parisian) almost went into cardiac arrest after viewing my collection of Indian garb. She taught me these looks:

• Kurtas paired with opaque black tights and black oxfords (Perfect for shopping)
  
• Lengha skirts paired with a plain white spaghetti strap top (Preferable for Sunday brunches or casual dinners)
• 
  Scarves paired with a matching jersey dress and cowboy boots.

I never really thought about these looks but once we tried them, they looked fabulous. If only Indian designers could be as inspiring as my Parisian friend in my closet… Now go on divas and explore rich fabrics and decadent jewellery and “look at me” makeup. Always dare to be dramatic.

This article was first published in Inside Desi, The new online lifestyle publication for South Asians. Visit Inside Desi for the latest scoop on your favorite Bollywood stars, hot topics and political views.

Beautiful & Lush Skin Courtesy of AMBI

No matter what you wear, rich, moisturized skin is a must. If you're a woman of color like myself, you need a little extra TLC. I trust AMBI to keep me well moisturized. AMBI skincare is formulated especially for women of color and delivers smooth even skin. I've been a fan of AMBI for the past 3 years and love the way my skin stays moisturized for hours. AMBI products have also helped my skin stay even and silky smooth. I currently use the AMBI Body soft and even line.

I use the AMBI fade cream every night as recommended by my derma. If you have dark skin you know how annoying hyper-pigmentation can be. This cream helps to reduce the appearance of dark spots, and it works. Cosmetics guru, Shalini Vadhera suggests you wear sunscreen during the day to help protect hyper-pigmented skin from harmful rays that can make them even darker.

I also love love love the stretch mark diminishing oil. It's great for reducing the look of stretch marks. The key to getting great skin is staying hydrated. AMBI will take care of the outside hydration but make sure you drink lots of water. Water is nature's beauty secret and you should take advantage of it. Find AMBI products at your local drugstore.

Indian Inspired Tunics by Meghan Fabulous

India has been a source of inspiration for designers worldwide. Meghan Fabulous is an amazing ultra trendy L.A. brand that caters to sexy women who love to stand out from the crowd. I especially love Meghan's great collection of global inspired tunics. They are intricate and glamourous. Tunics are a must for Spring and perfect for pool parties and dinner dates. Grab a Meghan Tunic while it's haute. -M.M.

Good Earth India

Good Earth is the Indian interior store that offers decedent and modern pieces that will covert your home into an Indian oasis. I love to create an ambient atmosphere filled with exoticism and glamour with lush silk pillows, dreamy glass lighting and magnificent jeweled candles from Good Earth. This home boutique specializes in a range of luxury products designed for the dynamic need of everyday living including designer furniture collections, home spa products, décor accessories, bed linens, crockery, candles, cushions, bar ware, vases and gifts. No matter what your preference when it comes to interior design, your bound to fall in love. You can spruce up a bland room with a few beaded pillows or go the extra mile and create a modern day Mughal palace with a room filled with Indian inspired and sophisticated furniture and accessories. With endless inspiration, it is a store you'll never forget walking into and also a place where magic truly happens, one raw silk pillow at a time. http://www.goodearthindia.com/

GOOD EARTH VERANDAH FLAGSHIP
Raghuvanshi Mansion, Raghuvanshi Mills, 11-12 Senapati Bapat Marg,
Lower Parel, Mumbai, India Tel#: +91-22-55720345, +91-22-55720342

Lemon Drop Earrings by Dancing Jems

I love the feel of owning something no one else has. When I discovered these beautiful Lemon Drop (Lemon Quartz, swarovski crystal, pearls and vermeil) earrings from Dancing Jems by Brenda Senechal, I was elated. These earrings are definitely unique. Not only are these earrings equal parts luxe and sophisticated they are also reminiscent of India. The jewel tones blend so well into each other and look gorgeous in the day as well as night. I love how they make any outfit feel a bit more exotic.

OPI INDIA COLLECTION

I've been a devotee of OPI nail lacquers ever since I was a little girl. OPI is simply the best. Yet I always wondered why they never had an India collection, well I must be a trend forecaster because OPI unveiled their India collection for SS08. Spot on with the Indian inspired trends from the spring catwalks, from the likes of Hermes and Naeem Khan. The colors shown are by far my favorites from the collection. I'm India Mood for Love is a color I wear on a daily basis. Hot pink nails are my signature. MonSooner or Later makes for the perfect pedicure. Yoga-Ta get This Blue speaks for itself and is perfect paired with gold dresses. Black Cherry Chutney is for you girls who can't let go of dark nail polish. But please do.
-M.M

Mimi For Stylehive

Hello all your gorgeous people,

I recently did a piece for Stylehive. Check it out here.

Hooray for Bollywood Featuring Beachcombers

Bollywood divas are known to be the most glamorous women around. With lush hair, long eyelashes and a love for stunning jewelry and clothing, these women know how to stand out from the crowd and this Spring you too will dazzle with Indian inspired trends. Our favorite place to go for authentic Indian accessories is Beachcombers. They have a gorgeous collection of bangles and sparkling Indian Khussa slippers that are not only comfortable but also Tres Chic! Pair these Indian inspired pieces with something simple for a look that screams Globe Trotter. But if you would really like to be dramatic wear a jewel toned flowy chiffon dress and fill your arms with matching glass bangles and watch your yourself transform into a Global Goddess. http://www.shopbeachcombers.com/

Mimi for GLAMOUR

Hello everyone,

I did a guest blog for the fabulous Suze at GLAMOUR about Indian inspired fashion which is haute for spring. Check it out. xx Mimi Read it here.

On The Runway With Naeem Khan

Naeem Khan SS08

"Coming from an exotic background, everything has to have an exotic touch. My favorite thing is white salmon wrapped in banana leaves. The marinade is coconut, coriander and lime. It looks beautiful and tastes amazing. My advice as a host is to be casual and relaxed so that your guests feel relaxed. It is most important to put together a group which is going to have magic when everyone is together!" - Naeem Khan (My New Designer Crush)

Shane & Falguni Peacock

They're known for their fun and vibrant prints! This is the collection to go to for wild and oh so chic animal prints! They claim their look is Boho/Urban with shades of navy and plums all over! Who do I love peacock? It just might be their dirty glam look, the unfinished hems the staggered embroidery. The gold lashes? I liked it alot. Ciao

Bollywood Glamour Made Easy

Photo Courtesy of Sayantan Sarkar

Hey There Fashionistas,
I've been vacationing in India for the past 2 months (let's just say, it was indeed very fabulous!) hence I've been neglecting Haute Mimi . Don't worry Mimi is back in New York and more fabulous than ever. My sweet escape inspired my style sense heavily. India is obsessed with fashion and it's far from conventional. Indian garb calls for tons of FUN, color and Glamour! The clothes scream "LOOK AT ME" I thought I'd share ways to bring in a little Bollywood Hip into your closet. Read and learn.

Rule #1 "Get The Look"
Indian divas aren't afraid to exaggerate femininity. This means long lashes, long voluminous hair and golden skin. Don't be afraid to wear more than 1 coat of mascara. Curl your tresses at the ends only and don't be afraid of the sun a tan automatically makes you look amazingly healthy and thinner. Indian women are known for their curves, they bring them out with lacy corsets. You should invest in at least one. It gives you Bollywood worth va-va-voom.
Mimi Says: "Indian Glamour girls are best friends with not only their jewelers and designers but also colored contact lenses. Don't be shy and try them! www.1800contacts.com"

Rule #2 "Shop Frequently but Sparsely"
The fabulous of India see shopping as a favorite pass time. Hence the boutiques are always full of eye candy. In any case the mantra here is go shopping whenever you can (go on, it's fun and it's also my favorite hobby) but when it comes to burning the plastic be careful and choose only 2 or 3 pieces from each boutique. This helps you build an incredible wardrobe filled with pieces that are genuinely, You. You can always follow the crowd and wear the latest trends but that doesn't compare to having a look that's all your own. I like to pair my Kurtis from Salvar Kamizes with leggings or jeans. If their long enough they make very cute party dresses!

Rule #3 "Embellishments get you noticed"
I love anything that is encrusted with sequins and rhinestones. It adds instant pizazz to your outfit and just makes you feel utterly glamourous. Look for glittery flats, and sequin tops. Just stick to one to two glittery pieces at a time. You don't want to look like a walking disaster from the 80's. If you're glitter shy start with an embellished clutch which you can wear with any LBD. When it comes to jewelry, buy big stand out pieces that are unique. Tribal necklaces are a perfect way to spice up your skinny jeans.

Mimi Says: "Always match your jewelry to your outfit! Go to Indian boutiques and buy glass bangles to match your outfit (no matter what you're wearing) it'll make you look put together in a flash. Remember girls do not be afraid to wear larger pieces of jewelry, they make you stand out!"

Rule #4 "The Right Attitude"
South Asian Divas all have one thing in common and it's CONFIDENCE. We know we own it. Adopt our je ne sais quoi state of mind and you'll be strutting around in those crystal embedded stilettos with poise and an aura no will be able to resist.

Rule #5 "Don't be afraid of Color"
Walk down M.G. Road in Cochin and you'll find that out of the thousands of people on prowl 99% are NOT wearing black. Whys that? It's because the trendsetters know that when it comes to clothes colors play a major role. Why wear boring black or grey when you can opt for vibrant greens, aquas and hot pinks? Experiment until you find bright and funky colors that compliment your skin tones.
Mimi Says:"Read my previous post on choosing a color palette."

Cheers, Mimi

Nandita, Oh Baby!

Nandita Mahtani, one of India's up and coming designers is just fabulous. Her colorful clothes will bring a ray of light into the New York closets full of black, (admit it, you have over 5 pairs of black pants, and not to mention 10 black tank tops) She's fairly young and oh so confident. You definately need confidence to pull these sexy itty bitty looks off. My fave picks from her past collection. Ciao

VOGUE INDIA

Vogue finally hit India In September. Now if only I can find a way to have it delivered to NY.
xx Mimi

Beri Sexy

Ritu Beri launched her ready to wear collection in Paris, October 2000. She was the first Asian designer to head a French fashion brand, Scherrer. I loved her collection it was beautiful and intricate to the max. It's a line for the luxe diva who happens to adore pink! Here are my picks from her collection, I'm sure you'll love her too! Ciao

Azeem Khan

I have mixed feelings about him. I don't think he's good at mixing Indo and Western. He has gone to F.I.T and Parsons. You can tell. the dresses were nice! Great for those fall soirees. Pair the teeny ones with tights, unless of course you're blessed with killer calves, like moi. Kiss* Ciao

Dayal Vs. Goel

Anupamaa Dress

Anupamaa Dress

Okay, so I'm guessing that the new Big Trend in India is the peasent dress. It was all over the Lakme runways and in my opinion the two deisgners who did it the best were Suriley Goel and Anupamaa Dayal. Funny how their names rhyme. Take your pick and flunt one of these comfy dresses on a warm breezy day in Central Park.

Goel Frocks