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.

 

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!

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.

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

Look from a book: Matilda by Roald Dahl

This probably was one of the first books that I ended up finishing in one day and probably the first movie that made me cry.

P.S: I am a major book nerd. Books before flicks. Always.

Bookworm Basics

• Matilda was the original bookworm! At the tender age of three, she taught herself to read and began to realize she was incredibly gifted. She began adding huge sums in her head, absorbing information, and moving items with her mind all by the age of four. Throughout the story, her intellect alienates her from her greedy, materialistic family, but she finds solace at school and the library. While at school, she befriends Miss Honey and other kind-hearted people, while also encountering the violent and scary Miss Trunchbull.
• The story was originally published in 1988 in London, with Quentin Blake’s quirky illustrations. Since then, Matilda has been converted into a film and a musical. As a tribute to Roald Dahl and his brilliant works, the Roald Dahl Children’s Gallery was built and established to stimulate children’s interests in science and literature.

So now that you recollect the book/movie or at least know a little about it, let’s get into the post directly.

Matilda the doll

Matilda is one of my favorite characters from childhood. It’s impossible not to love her for her tiny, telekinetic, bookwormy self! Not only does she have great taste in books, but she’s always willing to stand up for what she believes in. Even though her parents are con artists, Matilda is incorruptible and only uses her powers for good and helping others!

Take a page from Matilda’s style book with this look. A denim chambray shirtdress is casually cute when worn with preppy white boat shoes. The fun zebra detailing on the wicker clutch adds a little zest to this fun daytime outfit. This look would be perfect for going to go do a volunteer project! After all, a good deed is a great way to end these last few days of summer… and Matilda would agree!

Miss Honey

The sweetly sophisticated Miss Honey is Matilda’s best friend, confidante, and eventual guardian. Her refined tastes and gentleness make her a hit with all the students, and she always manages to stay positive, despite the difficult life she’s had. At the end of the story, Miss Honey finally gains the courage to join Matilda in standing up to the evil Miss Trunchbull.

Mirror Miss Honey’s girly, feminne tastes with this summery business casual outfit! Combine current trends andconventional office wear by mixing a peach pencil skirt with a “honey”suckle belt and a zany peplum top. Because the skirt and the pumps are both solid colored (note the capped toe, another great trend!), the blouse acts as a springy, lively addition. A cute statement case for your spectacles is the final flourish.

Tough Trunchbull

The evil and slightly sadistic Miss Agatha Trunchbull derives joy from making the lives of her students as miserable as possible. If you’ve ever had a particularly mean teacher, multiply that experience by 10 and you’ll have Miss Trunchbull. As headmistress of Crunchem Hall Primary School, Miss T runs the academy like a twisted boot camp, throwing hammers and locking her students in tiny closets lined with nails and needles.

You don’t have to be as tyrannical as “The Bull” to rock the military trend. A camo green skater dress with brass buttons and a high collar is one half girly and one half army general. A distressed denim vest and ripped tights add to the toughness factor, but are balanced by a delicate set of bangles matched to a utilitarian white watch. Combat ankle boots finish the look.

So that’s all for the bookworms!

Do let me know how you like this post. Do you want me to create outfits from other books/novels? Do write to me for suggestions or complaints or just to tell me you like OCD.

obsessiveclothingdesire@gmail.com

Incarnations and Karma

I am a strong supporter of both incarnation and karma. Also I can sometimes be very spiritual and tend to follow a lot of spiritual healing. There are days when my outfit for the day talks about my state of mind and body. If you are someone who is exactly like me then this post is just for you. For those who aren’t but just like to dress up once in a while like a gypsy and struggle with it then, well, this is also the post for you. These are basic items to have while trying to carry off the Bohemian look.

1. Head Bands: These look gorgeous on any face or skin shade. Whether you have straight hair or crazy curls, the headbands give out this enigmatic feel which make your pretty face and strands look prettier. Back in the days, head bands were worn for adornment purposes. The feathered ones were worn to mark bravery, for example if they were made out of eagle feathers, then it meant the person fought greater wars. In some practices, head bands are worn to keep a balance between positive and negative energies in your head.

2. Bangles: Wearing tons of bangles irrespective of colour, shape and pattern, always add to a certain character. There is never a maximum number amounting to bangles to be worn. Try finding bangles with ghungroos attached to them. If you can’t find bangles like that, what I do is sometimes wear anklets as bangles. In India, bangles are worn not only to enhance a woman’s beauty, but also to signify a woman’s social position. Different types of bangles and colors in a woman’s bangles can represent whether she is married, single, or a widower. In parts of India, when a woman is married it is customary for her to receive and wear white shell and red-colored bangles. This is because white bangles are symbolic of new beginnings, and red is symbolic of energy. Other colors also have meaning: yellow signifies happiness, blue signifies tranquility, and green signifies happiness. Since bangles are often seen as a symbol of auspiciousness, it isn’t surprising that most Indian women own a variety of colorful bangles to match each outfit.

3. Bohemian skirts or lose fitted linen pants: These are available in abundance. For those who stay in Bombay, almost every street shop specially in Colaba Causeway has these. Try some with mirrors on them. Blacks with sequins are as gorgeous as bright colours with embroidery on them. Wrap-round linen pants too are available at Causeway. For those who reside in the United States, Urban Outfitters, H&M and Forever 21 also stock on such skirts. Wear these with a plain tube or with a long white kurta, they will still dictate style and character.

4. Feathers: Feathered earrings, hairbands, bangles etc, everything with feathers screams “Gypsy”. I own a to of feathers necklaces and I keep matching them with different outfits. Try eccentric colours or prints or stick to the basic brown. Each feather has an essence and a story behind it. Of course nowadays they are available in bulk, so don’t expect the shop keeper to know the story of the feather. You could try making accessories out of them yourself too. Then you will have your own story from The Day You Found a Feather.

Feathers deal with ascension and spiritual evolution to a higher plane. Feathers were worn to symbolize  communication with Spirit, and to express their celestial wisdom. Also  feathers represented the power of the thunder gods, along with the power of air and wind.

5. Satchels: An original canvas satchel or just any satchel is a must-have to carry this look off. Try basic colours like camel, brown, tan etc. If you want to add the extra zing, then try neons. But don’t try to substitute a stringed clutch or the typical ‘Chanel’ slings with satchels. That will completely ruin your look.

It doesn’t necessarly have to to be skirts or pants, sometimes tight hot shorts worn with a loose fitted shirt or a tee also does the trick. Just experiment and have fun with your spirituality. Colours play a very important role in your wardrobe. Some colours help cleanse auras. I never believed in energy, auras etc until I gave it a try and worked wonders for me.

For those who reside in Bombay and would like to give Tarot, Healing or Aura Cleansing a try, contact Nauka Jhaveri at          +91 9819700139. This stuff is not black magic or hocus pocus so do not worry.  For those who don’t reside in Bombay but elsewhere, do give her a call as Tarot can be done via a phone call and email. Healing works based on telepathy and she has healed a number of clients around the world without having to meet them face to face.

Oh Zip!

Gone are the days when zips too were considered bold and were tucked away beneath a layering fabric.
The zip-front style is one that I have noticed the most; however, asymmetrical zippers are also becoming widely popular!

Here are different examples of this evolving trend:

Now zipper dresses can look a wee bit trampish or lets say stripper like. But then not all. This zipper dress would look elegant at a convocation too.

Minus the fishnets and this dress is so hot. The elaborate back makes me drool.Wear the dress with a nice head gear and you can walk into a family dinner too.

How gorgeous are these skirts. But make sure when you wear such skirts, the zipper should be the center focus. Such skirts are available at Pink House at Bandra and even Zara, Only and Mango.

Zipper tops are very diverse. Most famous ones are the tight fit zipper tops tucked into skirts, but a zipper top like this one, it puts fitted ones to shame. Team it with latex type leggings and black or nude pumps and you would look so chic!
You sometimes can even create loose tops into zipper tops,just ask your local tailor to do it.