3 Outfits Inspired by Things You Never Have Time to Do.

You know when you see TV or movie characters looking all Oprah-lighting glowy, whiling the day away at some dreamy corner cafe, or wandering the streets in a glamorous, yet effortless ensemble?

Yeah, those girls are not me.

The last time I strolled outside without an agenda in mind  was probably never. I’m reasonably certain the last time I was able to sit down with a hot drink and read a book uninterrupted for hours was when I had the flu. (Yipee!) There are so many lovely little indulgent things that I’d love to have time to do, but somehow never get around to- my three big ones are listed down below, with outfits to match.

At least I know I’ll be dressed perfectly for each occasion – should I ever find time to do any of them!

1. Go for a stroll:

After moving to a city with a vibrant downtown full of eclectic eateries and quirky boutiques, I thought I’d spend my weekends ambling aimlessly, window shopping on the city streets. What I’ve really found that is my schedule is so packed (mostly with laundry – never-ending laundry) that even on the weekends, I often don’t leave campus. I may not have time to wander the shops à la Blair Waldorf in Paris, but I can still dress like I do!

To get this look, create a neutral base by layering a cream colored tank and scarf, then add a gorgeous floral boyfriend blazer. Add a pair of skinnies and finish the look with coordinating flats, a simple cross-body bag and little gold hoop earrings. This outfit would be great paired with a high topknot and winged liner for a look that’s trendy, but comfy enough to spend the day downtown.

2. Relax at a coffee house or a book shop:

During those dreadfully long school days, I fantasize about taking the bus to a little cafe and sipping on lattes and mochas while curling up with my favorite Fitzgerald novel. There, they will have varieties of teas I can’t pronounce and mismatched cutlery and the waitress probably has, like, a degree in Advanced Study of the Spoken Comma or something. Pretentious? Maybe. Intoxicating? Most definitely.

Prep for your relaxing afternoon with trendy disco leggings and a long, soft tank. Drape yourself with this gorgeous print cape (which is long enough to give you plenty of coverage), then add a simple layered necklace and comfy flats for an outfit that feels both simple and luxurious- perfect for a day spent curling up with your favorite book and a hot drink!

3. DIY up a storm:

As a self-professed Pinterest-aholic, I have endless bookmarks of projects I want to start, from home decor to spa-at-home ideas. One day, I’d love to find time to actually sit down and create that DIY magnetic makeup board I’ve been fawning over, but, alas, time never seems to work in my favor.

If I were to find the time to realize my Martha Stewart ambitions, I would dress for the day by slipping on some boyfriend jeans and a concert tank, along with this super snuggly oversized cardigan. Paired with fuzzy moccasins and a cool ring, this outfit is the ultimate in casual cute.

 

Winter Touchdown

It’s finally the winter. The winters in Bombay obviously aren’t that cold but it does get chilly at nights.

Cold=Covering up=Blah?

Not necessary. You don’t have to look like a gunny bag under the sweats and hoodies. Here’s the touchdown on how to get the winning winter look

Don’t opt for regular jeans. Camos are a big deal right now. Try them with soft big-kit button down sweaters or with a cropped top or just a plain old white tee. Invest in a pair of flat boots. They are available at Bandra. If not those, then look for platform sneakers.

Just cause it is the winter, doesn’t mean you have to stick with dulls. Try a pop of neons with a dull overall. Also graphic sweaters are big. Make sure to have one. Pair it up with leggings or thick coloured stockings. Finish the look with some loafers.

 

 

For a more formal look, try bright high-waisted trousers and a great bustier. Cover up the ensemble with a fly away cardigan.

 

For those who like the dulls, then definitely opt for acid-washed jeans. I am in love with them. Try them even in dark blue shades. Wear it with a loose casual tee and once again wear platform sneakers or combat boots. Finish the look with some studded accessories.

Queen of Simplicity

 

Some of the best things in life come in black and white – old movies, desaturated photographs, newspapers, pandas, and cookies & cream ice cream immediately come to mind. Likewise, black and white outfits are among our favorite things… especially for fall.

Like most girls, we have a serious love for neutrals. Most of the go-to pieces in our closets are white or black… and we bet yours are, too! So why not wear them together for a classically chic look?

If you’re concerned about looking drab when you go back to basics, never fear. Below I’ll show you how to look super stylish in black and white, with four achromatic outfits:

Animal Print Weekend

One of the most dramatic ways to pair black and white is, of course, with a bold animal print. A zebra print tunic sweater is a great choice to keep your lazy leggings-and-boots outfit looking fresh. Also, we love beanie hats in these chilly months for bad hair days – we haven’t seen them as much as usual this season, so rock one today and stand out from the crowd.

 

Trendy for a Night Out

The most exciting way to jazz up your black and white look is to go super, super trendy with it. A peplum top, fake leather leggings, and platform shoes (okay, these are more blush-toned than grey.. but how cute are they?) are all popular. If the entire look was in color, it would be difficult to pull off. However, sticking with all black allows you to rock fun trends like peplum and shiny pants without looking over-the-top.

Pile on the Layers for Class

Layers are a great way to add dimension to your black-and-white outfit. Wear tights under shorts (since it’s cold anyways – you need them!), and layer a vest on top of your sweater. If it’s really cold out, add a jacket, too!

Playing with Textures at Work

Another way to add excitement to an outfit with no color is to play with texture. Suede flats with a faux-croc skirt and a houndstooth coat? Fine by us! Also, you don’t have to colorblock to wear these shades – a cool shirt, like this blouse from Target, puts bold touches of black on an otherwise normal blouse.. and the effect couldn’t be cooler.

 

If you have any more ideas, suggestions, bitchy outlashes at me, anything at all or maybe even for no reason at all, do comment, or write to me at obsessiveclothingdesire@gmail.com

I will be back home in less than a month! Can’t fucking wait!

Kiwi Accessories

Who said two friends should never indulge in a business? Read more to get the whole pulp.

 

OCD: When people shop, people know the brand but the face behind the brand. Tell us something about yourselves. What makes you’ll so interesting that Kiwi got interesting?

KA: Kiwi is a creative intervention between two architects- Rashi Jain and Rochelle Santimano.
As architecture students unsatisfied with college assignments and project work, we decided to do something different and unconventional, leading to the birth of Kiwi Accessories.
We’ve been good friends through five years of architecture and have always shared a mutual inclination towards fashion and creative arts. We understand each other’s taste and sensibility, can relate to each other’s preferences, and can depend on each other’s strengths which makes working together interesting as well as fun.

Aren’t they a stylish pair?

OCD: It’s never easy to make something big from a scratch. Especially now that everyone buys mass produced stuff, how the fuck are you’ll managing to keep the authenticity of handmade accessories and cater to that niche audience?

KA: More than creating the brand, publicizing and spreading awareness about the existence of Kiwi as a handmade accessories brand was a mammoth task. But thanks to social networking sites like Facebook and Twitter, and of course family and friends, we’ve been able to reach where we are today.

 

OCD: What made you’ll decide to get done with architecture once and for all and move to something totally different? It takes a lot of courage to switch career paths.

KA: Our passion towards fashion and creative arts is what pushed us to start our own brand rather than a person/event in particular.

 

OCD: What product is your baby? The one you are so proud of that your own brand got to create something like this.

KA: Since both of us love dogs, designing and executing our line of pet accessories has been fun and challenging making the ribbon dog collars our personal favorite!

 

 

OCD: Lastly how would you sum of the personality of your brand?

KA: A metaphor for the fruit: fresh, vibrant and rare.

The reason I truly like Kiwi is because these days everyone is wearing mass produced crap from factories. No personal identity whatsoever. OCD is all about letting your style be an extension of your soul. Be different. And selling handmade items is no joke and takes a lot to do it. Check out their beautiful handmade accessories below:

Also make sure to encourage them by visiting Kiwi at The Network on the 1st and 2nd of December in Bombay. Click on this link to know more: http://www.facebook.com/cibaroevents

Also check out Kiwi Accessories at https://www.facebook.com/pages/kiwi-accessories/181085908634799

The Ribbon Factory

The Ribbon Factory is a collaboration between two Graphic Designers Shruti Kumar and Shruti Savla, who strive to create exquisite, one of a kind hair accessories keeping in sync with the ever changing fashion trends and catering to the needs of trendy women of all ages. They believe that with their kind of passion for handcrafting products, they can create something unique for everyone.

Both the Shrutis

 

OCD decided to know more about their unique start up. Keep reading to know the juicy tidbits.

 

OCD:Was there a person or maybe an event that made you want to start your own brand. Something that made your blood rush?

TRF: Blair waldorf from Gossip Girl :p

 

OCD: How would you describe your brand in just a sentence of not more than 6 words?

TRF: Never have a bad hair day.

 

OCD: Is there any product you’ll sell that you are particularly proud of? Or something of emotional value?

TRF: We started off with really simple ribbon-bow elastic headbands and they were an immediate hit and now after 2 years we’re bringing them back into our collections.

OCD: It’s always difficult starting your own thing. Not many take such bold steps. What was the biggest challenge you faced while starting your own venture?

TRF: Letting people know that there is no such thing as *I cant pull off hair accessories*.

 

Well they definitely broke free from their challenges and made sure everyone has the confidence to pull of hair accessories. The Ribbon factory definitely has some really cute hair accessories. See the pictures and judge for yourselves.

Don’t forget to check them out at The Network by Cibaro Events on the 1st and 2nd of December. Cheer them on. Also don’t forget to like them on Facebook.

5 must haves for this fall 2012

1. Loafers: 

Give your fave ballet flats a rest this fall and pick up a pair of these must-have alternatives — smoking slippers. These menswear-inspired loafers are not only uber-comfortable, but can be worn with pretty much everything in your closet. And since they’re available in every color and print imaginable, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a pair that doesn’t match your personal style.

 

2. Studded Collars:

Amp up your style cred by rocking a statement-making studded, sequined or beaded collar this season. A statement collared blouse or dress creates a glam, yet feminine vibe, but if you’re looking for something more versatile, try a detached collar. Just as the name suggests, these collars can be worn with anything and will breathe new life into your favorite sweaters, tees and dresses.

3. Anything in Oxblood:

As I’m sure you know, all things oxblood are hot for fall, so be sure to pick up at least one new item in this hot hue. This moody shade looks fantastic when paired with black or gray, but if  you’re looking for something bolder, try pairing oxblood with orange or light pink to create a fashion-forward look.

4. Graphic Sweaters:

Make a bold and comfy statement this season with an on-trend graphic sweater. Pairing these sweaters withjeans and boots creates a cozy fall outfit, but I especially love how they look when layered over a collared top or dress (see #4).

5. Printed Pants:

Last but not least, my final favorite item to update your look for fall is a fantastic pair of printed trousers. Whether you like leopard, polka dot or floral prints, you’re sure to find your perfect pair at almost any retailer. Wearing these trousers with a solid-colored top creates a chic look, but for a bolder outfit, pair them with a printed top or jacket to create a fashion-forward vibe.

What your nail polish speaks about you.

Red means sultry

Red is the ultimate statement in glamour — as it has been for generations. “It’s the most seductive of all colors,” says Leatrice Eiseman, color expert. “We were going into a period when other colors started turning up in nail polish, and everyone wanted to try them, but a return to red means a certain nostalgia factor, in a traditional way.” In other words, this is a person who’s tried the other colors, and knows what’s sexy for her. 

Blue means fearless

Forget any tranquil blues that might pop to mind — this season’s take on the color is electric. “It’s in a class by itself. It’s very charged, it’s attention-getting and very hot — the hottest flames burn blue,” points out Eiseman. “A person who would choose that, [wants] to be unique and different; it’s a departure from the norm. It’s fun and experimental.”

 

Burgundy means sophisticated

Deep and dark, like the wine for which it’s named, this color packs the powerful combination of classic red and trendy purple. “Burgundy is an elegant shade of red, one of the most elegant colors you can think of,” says Eiseman. “It has a huge degree of sophistication to it. Someone who thinks of themselves as sophisticated leans towards this color; it’s very haute couture.”

Bling means vivacious

“I think there’s just going to be more and more effects being added!” say Eiseman, of nails’ glitziest, blingiest trend of them all. “There’s so much experimentation with technology in every substratum you can imagine, and it’s reflected in nails.” These oversize bling bombs can go on every finger, or you can disguise your wild side and just paint one finger on each hand for a surprise contrast with your natural nails. 

 

Duo chrome means visionary

This futuristic two-tone look won’t help you tap out messages on your smartphone any faster, but it does indicate a person who’s very engaged with technology. “I point to the nail polish industry in defining metallic tones like these, and many of those were inspired by the technology used to paint cars,” Eiseman says. Your manicure suggests that you’re likely to keep ahead of those curves.

Gunmetal means unconventional

These very dark shades of gray read almost black in the bottle, but on your nail, they hold their own as part of your look. “It’s a very strong neutral — it takes on the same connotation as black, which is the strongest and most stable color,” says Eiseman. “We talk about it as a color but it’s almost a psychological presence. It’s the ultimate in sophistication and high fashion, in order to make a statement.”

Neutral means dependable

Neutral colors, unsurprisingly, are the most unchanging, but this season’s take on nude is a gray-toned beige that’s natural and flattering on many skin tones. “Someone that would choose that color likes the idea of something dependable, always there. It’s a solid color that lasts,” she says.

Yellow means optimistic

“Yellow in general is associated with sun and warmth; it’s so visible that you can’t ignore it,” says Eiseman. Nor would you want to, particularly in the season’s signature shade, a very bright canary yellow. “If you use it on your nails, that’s a real statement. It’s very extroverted and happy,” she says.

 

Minimal at its best.

Not in the mood to wear too much? Prints, colours, textures, accessories, etc overwhelm you? Don’t worry. Without the fuss you still can be stylish. Here’s how:

Cheating is a good thing.

Everyone cheats. You started cheating since you were a baby. You cheated your way through your mom’s heart just to get an extra candy. You cheated your way into good grades by copying answers from your partner during an exam. Well obviously not all cheating is good. But not all cheating is bad either. Follow these fashion cheats, like me, and it will become much easier to love fashion and be comfortable.

1. Bag it: So you want to wear those gorgeous sky-high heels, but the roads are a bitch and you also you cannot balance on them? Do what I do. Carry a classy sling over or a satchel. Also carry a paper bag. (Be green please!) Now what you do is get out of your house wearing flats. Try wearing ballerinas or loafers and not flip flops. Carry your heels in a disposable bag. Trot around everywhere until you are a minute away from your destination. Then just remove your flats, take that paper bag, put your flats in them and into your satchel and slip on your heels. Nobody will know once you enter the destination that you have been cheating. Also if you are at a house party, or dinner party or anything apart from a club, if you get uncomfortable in your heels, you always have your flats at your disposition. Heels go back into the bag, flats come back onto your feet. Also note: The sling over you are carrying, make sure it is pretty and goes with your outfit so it can be substituted for a dressy clutch.

 

2. Show it off: So you’ve got a gorgeous dress but the only problem is it’s plunging neckline? Don’t want people thinking you’re trashy to wear something this low for a formal dinner party etc? Just wear a statement necklace to take the attention from the cleavage. If you’re dress has large print on it or has too many colours, then wear a smaller neckpiece. Something that partially covers your cleavage. Or distract them from big earrings and some red/hot pink lipstick.

 

3. Paint it red: So finally it’s your birthday/ anniversary or anything that is a big deal to you and that is when God decides it’s time to pay for your karma by giving you a throbbing zit on your face? Well give God the middle-finger. (I aint an atheist, just trying to write fun.) Put on a light coat of brown blush on your cheeks and the bridge of your nose to accentuate your cheek bones. And finish it by painting on some red/hot pink lipstick. Cause of the boldness of your lipstick, all your attention will be taken away from your zit onto your lush lips. Even if it’s the day time you can still rock your lips. Try hot pink for the day time if you think red is only for the nights.

 

4. Tape it: You got this gorgeous dress or skinnies but the only problem is it’s too long? Don’t have the time to go to a darji but you ought to wear it tonight? As long as you have some double sided tape or duct tape, you still have the chances to look like a diva. Just fold your dress/ skinnies/shorts/skirt/you get the point, to the length you desire and just tape them from inside. Duct tapes are pretty strong so you will be safe from a peeping hemline.

 

5. Rip it: Having one of those days where you have absolutely nothing to wear cause you feel fat? All you need is a loose tee you don’t wear often. Just take a pair of scissors and cut the length of the tee. Make it a cropped tee. Put on some skinnies, flats, some accessories and your ‘new’ cropped tee and parade out.

 

If you have any more cheats, I would love to know. Do comment here or email me at obsessiveclothingdesire@gmail.com

How to wear a chambray (denim) shirt.

Chambray skirts are pretty stylish. Only loose ones though. You can tone down any attire with it. Wear it as a jacket or wear it as a shirt. Watch out for the looks:

1. Wear a nice maxi dress and wear an open chambray shirt on it. Twist the look up with military boots and a big high bun.

2. Geek it up a bit by wearing it under a v-neck school sweater. Roll up both the sleeves. Wear the leggings, block heels, nerdy glasses and voila!

3. Wear it with a block coloured/printed pencil skirt. You can either tuck it in or let it stay tucked out. Make yourself stand out more by tying your hair up and then creating a bow out of a bandana.

4. The most basic way is by wearing it with a different shade of jeans. To break the denim on denim thing, wear a camel belt.

Do you have any other look in mind? Do you like/dislike the looks? Any comments, questions, tips, etc do let me know via commenting on the post or by writing to me on obsessiveclothingdesire@gmail.com