Drawn to DRAWN

Well, when something excites me, I don’t hesitate one bit to come forward and share with as many as I can and hence, this blog post.

Sharing all about this brand, “DRAWN” to which I am literally drawn to and can’t wait to get shopping. Here are few reasons for it-

  1. If you chek out their styles- you’ll feel that finally someone gets it that looking fashionable can be effortless for you just slip into one of their dresses and get ready to turn heads! Whether its the big bold sleeves or the perfect slight- the brand does make looking stylish very easy!
  2. Bold prints, don’t shy-yes, time for some confession, I absolutely love bold colours and prints and sometimes, I do make my mom cringe with my choices but mostly she compliments my confidence to be able to carry them off! And boy, check out their prints for they are so unique and cool! And don’t forget, ” Fashion, is an instant language.” So, pick well!
  3. The price factor- I would say the brand is affordable for what looks like good quality stuff!

Now, without further adieu- let me share with you some of my favourites and guess what? They are soon coming up with a brand new collection too.

The Art Deco Shirt
Isn’t this shirt just a piece of art? Can’t wait to wear this for an evening out with nice funky gold earrings!
The Anti Stripe Oversized Shirt
Add some volume to your upper body with this cool shirt and it is going to look uber fashionable with your favouirte pair of jeans!
Drinks at 9 AM/PM ‘Too Much Colour’ Off Shoulder Dress
Running late for a date? You shouldn’t think too much and just opt for this one 😉
Hi, Sunshine! Midi Dress
Remember- It’s always summer somewhere. It’s my recent favourite and it looks gorgeous, soothing and comfortable.
‘Don’t Cry Over Spilt Paint’ Shirt and Pant
Leisure sets are a hit these days when you don’t have to get into the business of, “What will this go well with?”

P.S. This is absolutely not a promotional post but an admiration post for a MADE IN INDIA brand that deserved a shout-out! Hence, more power and success to them!

Ubud & Us…

Well, this was my first time to Bali and my husband’s and mine first time ever to Ubud and while after all the wedding madness- I was quite kicked to visit what seemed from pictures like a very relaxed place, my husband- Ishan wasn’t too excited but on reaching Ubud- we both were instantly on the same page and absolutely fell in love with it!

I feel Ubud is nice quiet, the quiet that you cherish and not the quiet that haunts you.

Here’s sharing few notes on Ubud and I truly hope that they come handy on your next visit!

Our Stay: We stayed at Alaya Resort which was on a fun and relatively bustling street. But just putting it out there quite clear that Ubud didn’t feel like a place for night-outs, so don’t really expect otherwise. We loved our hotel- the staff was extremely helpful, the pool though small was fun, the breakfast spread was decent and delicious and yes we were truly happy with our room as it was really well done up and from the balcony- we were witness to ample greenery.

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Shopping: Truthfully, by my normal standards I didn’t shop much but I did pick up lovely stuff for our home. Also, you can pick up amazing gifts such as handmade jewellery, dream-catchers, cane bags and so on. Also, the boutiques though very fancy stocking fashionable stuff are on the expensive side.

Food: There are umpteen options to binge!

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We quite liked this placed called Simply Social! Also, we tried coffee at several cafes and at all places it was really good! Also, when in Ubud, a smoothie bowl is a must!

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Nearby Attractions: I have never before been on a Night Safari and opted to go with the husband and it truly made for a worthwhile experience. Also, Bali Swing is a must for those looking for lots of instagrammable pictures and take our advise, hire their photography services. Both places offered meals and we decided to end the Night Safari with a cold beer each!

I must add that there are several waterfalls in the vicinity and a visit to at least one is a must!

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We loved to walk around so I’d suggest carry/wear comfortable shoes, sunscreen is a must as the sun was strong while we were there at least which is beginning December. There are several temples throughout Ubud- we definitely did stop by at one of them! There are also plenty of Departmental Stores where you can pick up your essentials from! We didn’t really visit the Monkey Forest as we got a feel just walking past it but you could plan a visit there!

On our next trip- we are looking at trying several spa treatments, visiting the rice fields and yes some yoga classes for me 🙂 Ubud, call us back soon! And I have to say that every local we encountered was a gem and ever so cheerful and helpful!

Happy Travelling!
Sonali

On Top Fashion Gear with Avnni Kapur

Well, truthfully you can’t ever really have an overdoze of weddings considering quite a few celebs got married lately but fact is that the wedding season is on and the charm and beauty of a bride or the excitement of the groom are sights which seldom go out of demand so to say.

Weddings are beautiful, no matter how simple or lavish they maybe- weddings are just beautiful. And the most talked about are the brides at these weddings (sorry guys but guess you know it too). Also, we reckon the looks for the pre-wedding day celebrations are rather important as they let you truly experience and create a build-up to the big day!

So, since it is the wedding season and we want our brides to look their gorgeous selves- we got talking with one of our favourite designers from Delhi. Well, not that she just has a youthful take on design herself but her clothes are unique, colourful and playful. And I must add that every time I visit Avnni Kapur’s store- I am always pleasantly surprised by something or the other for the pieces wouldn’t be very routine.

When asked about the Mehendi celebrations, she said, “A trend that is hitting this season for Mehendi is the mid-length skirt and crop top which is comfortable and allows the wearer to show their beautiful Mehendi designs. What is more is that it is practical and very easy to carry. People are also trying to experiment with more vivid and vibrant colours, therefore no greens.” Further commenting on the hues for Mehendi, the designer said that to feel and look different, she would recommend trying colours like lilac, shades and tints of bright blues, or maybe even corals.

And with the hits, you also got to know the other side. Avnni said,” A complete no-no for Mehendi will be over-accessorizing with Jewellery, a little bling is what is needed but do not go overboard with it. Also, a no-no to Churidars please.”

And no such celebrations are going to be complete without the bride’s squad. Yes, we are talking about our bridesmaids. Avnni suggested, “The bridesmaids can always opt for something simpler like dhotis, crop-tops and skirts or maybe a jacket with cigarette pants and can have that element of co-ordination with matching dupattas, maang tikkas or even same colour skirts.”

And the most action-packed function has to be the Cocktail night! The designer said,”The brides of today are keen on having an Indo-western look for their Cocktail with stylish cuts. They also prefer unique drapes, unconventional tops or even long capes. Keeping it traditional yet modern is the way for the brides of 2018-19.” We do agree with our ace designer, don’t we?

Lastly, do check out the fabulous work of our designer-

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Perks of staying in Pratunam, Bangkok

Well, with the airport less than an hour away, there sure are some fancy perks of staying in the bustling Pratunam area of Bangkok.
 
Talking from experience, I have thoroughly enjoyed my stay at hotels in Pratunam on each of my trips besides the times I have stayed with my friends at their residence in Sukhumvit.

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Be on a Shopping Spree:
 
There is never a dull moment especially when you are staying in this area. During the day, no matter how much time you spend- you shall still be left wanting for more at the Platinum Fashion Mall. What’s more is that a newer building of the mall has been developed as well. 
From clothes to bags to shoes to accessories to beauty products-this one is an absolute haven for girls and from the point of convenience- there is a floor where you can leave behind the love of your life or even better if he is not accompanying you, then take back something for him from that floor.

One of my personal favourite shops is the Pink Pvssy for their gorgeous and stylish clutches.
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Handy Hacks for the Platinum Fashion Mall:
 
1. If there is anything particular you have in mind- seek their Help Desk and they give you the exact shop numbers dealing with the requested category of products.
 
2. Their food court is a must visit, there are ample choices and you would get a very affordable meal.
 
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3. Carry a big empty bag as you land up shopping enough to stress your arms and hands- a bag with wheels would be a true blessing.
 
And, for the tech-savy, just few steps away is the Pantip Plaza.
As you step out of the Mall, do grab a slice of Pizza at Crispy Pizza or a Japanese Soft Serve at  Demi Concept or how about some Mango Sticky Rice?
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Some of the other malls not too far would be:
 
Almost a 10 minutes ride away would be the very well known MBK Mall and then not too far from MBK are the Siam Malls for all the branded shopping.
And must mention my current favourite- Central World.
 
And, as the sun sets down- the streets of Pratinum also liven up further with the night markets. My recent most discovery was the Neon Night Market- it was quite fun and casual.
 
However, a market I truly recommend for the evening would be Asiatique The Riverfront  which though would be about half an hour away from Pratunam but would be totally worth the visitThere are plenty of shops, amazing restaurants by the river, live entertainment and there is just this fabulous festivity in the air.
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Hotels at Pratunam, My picks would be:

 –Centara Watergate Pavillion Hotel- you would love their breakfast and land up clicking umpteen pictures here for sure!
 
The Berkeley Hotel-the room size is a complete luxury and we thoroughly relished all the dishes we ordered in our rooms. The location for me was perfect.
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When looking for hotels, make sure you cross-check that it is not too in the interiors or isolated as then you would be far-off from the action. 
 
Binging Big:

Just about five minutes away from the Platinum Mall is this cute place called Hungry Nerd. From their pasta to their burgers- I have always loved everything here.
Another favourite place in this area which we love for desserts is the  B Story Cafe.
 

Hope this information comes handy and connectivity isn’t really an issue with Grab, regular cabs, tuk-tuk and so on.

 
Wishing you an ever amazing trip to Thailand!
xoxo,
Sonali

Fashion Notes for the New Year’s Eve

Girls, it’s truly one of our favourite times of the year… And come December, we already start figuring our New Year’s Eve plans and then the even bigger question which starts haunting us almost instantly is, “What to wear?”

We are certain that just about every girl goes through the same churn!!! But we are quite excited as Sonali this time around is sharing her thoughts on her ideal New Year’s Eve look for this season. She has kept in mind the current hot trends and what is more is that the look you’ll witness here is simple yet smart and comfortable yet chic. Time to share what she reckons shall truly turn heads as you dazzle to dine and wine with your date…

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Velvet is absolutely hot this season and this one is a true stellar!
Shop this Wine Velvet Shift Dress from http://www.thelabellife.com
Price-Rs.2,640/-

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These heels are sure going to notch up your style quotient while notching up your height and confidence as well!
Shop these Intoto Detailed Multi Strap Sandals from http://www.koovs.com
Price-Rs.2,099/-

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Love great jewellery? You have to love Prerto then! These ones are just too classy!
Shop these Crystal White Rubix from http://www.prerto.com
Price-Rs.3,000/-

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Chokers are big this season, so glamourize the look with this stunner around your neck!
Shop this Grunge Chic Choker Necklace from www.pipabella.com
Price-Rs.749/-

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These are certainly our best friends for they let us carry all our essentials!
Shop this Nicole Genuine Leather Clutch from www.aqshop.com
Price-Rs.1,159/-

In company of these great fashion pieces, I already feel like a glam girl! Hope this post helps you plan your New Years Eve look better.And don’t forget to highlight your eyes and let some blush and gloss compliment well..Wishing you a Sparkling time!– Sonali

Summer of Valentine…

We love roses, we totally do… And we love fashion too, you know we do! However, not so often do we see a perfect marriage of both but you all get ready for a beautiful surprise as we both doll-up in outfits from the immensely talented designer Nitya Bajaj’s Valentine Collection where the red rose is truly the hero.

The cuts, fabrics, hues and designs truly reflect great modernity and chicness.

For both of us it was love at first sight as far as this collection was concerned as we totally fell for it the very first time we came across the stuff. Whether it was the gowns, dresses, jackets or the crop tops- we have been drooling over them all.

The post is even more special as after a very long time both of us have been captured together and that too in Germany’s cultural center- Berlin. Well, what makes it even more special is that the profound relationship of friendship too epitomizes love and we will always be each other’s Valentine. Hence, we reckon we are great ambassadors for this collection 😉

The wait is finally over, presenting to you Shagun Tomar and Sonali Vij in Label Nitya Bajaj’s Crop Top and Summer Jacket (respectively) from their splendid collection.

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Helipadonheels wishes you all lots of love and smiles!!! Here’s to the love of friendship!!!

Shop the collection @nityabajaj.com

 

 

 

 

Winter Fashion & more with Nitya Bajaj

So, finally Delhi Winters have arrived! We all have been waiting to wear those chic coats and stunning boots, haven’t we? And winter weddings are no fun if we aren’t able to show-off how well we brave the winters in those ultra glamorous blouses, don’t you agree?

Ladies, wait no more and step out in your fashionable best this winter! The combination of winters and fashion is conceived by many as an excuse to look rather boring but this interview post with a superlative fashion designer is sure to come handy and help you all dress up like never before this season. What is also a known fact is that almost everyone around us seems to be getting married, so our expert also lends some fashion advise for these months when love is ought to be in the air…

Let us confess straight up, we absolutely love her cozy boutique nestled in the locales of Shahpur Jat in New Delhi and what adds to the whole experience is how this designer takes time to warmly embrace each client and helps them make the best buy! No more guess work,  it is time to share about this label which has done umpteen spectacular shows, has been covered in leading glossies and has been worn by several Bollywood celebrities like Sonakshi Sinha, Kalki Koechlin, Prachi Desai, Gauhar Khan and many others.

Label NITYA BAJAJ celebrates WOMANHOOD…the femininity, the elegance and the power of being-SHE with distinction.  The brand is truly synonymous with ethereal luxury.

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Fashion Designer Nitya Bajaj

Now, let us hear what Nitya Bajaj has to say about winter fashion and more…

Q: Three things you reckon that girls must have in their closets this winter?
Nitya: A Neutral colored trench to cover-up, a woolen scarf and full sleeve warmers.

Q: Three fashion trends which are a complete no-no this winter?
Nitya: Drab and sloppy clothing are a big No-NO for any season. Be sharp, be bold, be you! 

Q: Tell us about your fashion icon?
Nitya: I admire Kangna Ranaut and Victoria Beckham for their innate sense of style.

Q: Love is in the air…  Just about everyone is getting married and next month is Valentine’s Day, your style tips for our readers please…
Nitya: Avoid RED! It is clichéd and overdone! February is a beautiful month; it is also my anniversary month. I suggest you experiment with colors. Red can be worn on other ceremonies too besides the wedding day!

 Q: What makes for the perfect look for a bride?
Nitya: Her confidence and smile!

Q: This Valentine’s Day opt for…
Nitya: Giving love to the needy! Help the underprivileged!

Q: Nitya Bajaj and spectacular gowns are almost synonymous… Your advice for to-be brides who are looking for gowns?
Nitya: Come to Label Nitya Bajaj!!!

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Lastly, let’s play rapid fire….

  • Gold or Silver
    Nitya: Silver
  • Gown or Sari
    Nitya: Both
  • Bold Colours or Pastels
    Nitya: Pastels
  • London or New York
    Nitya: London

We can’t thank Nitya enough for making this happen and ensuring the first blog post of 2016 is an ultra cool one! We hope you all enjoyed this post as much as we did putting it together for you! Wishing you all a wonderful 2016!

Love,
Team Helipadonheels

Pictures Courtesy: Label NITYA BAJAJ

 

 

#LikeMotherLikeDaughter

My mother’s wonderful. To me she’s perfection.
-Michael Jackson

Well, our mothers are truly wonderful, aren’t they? We definitely owe heaps of gratitude to them for their unconditional love, this life and so much more. Though one day isn’t enough to celebrate this profound bond but let us look at Mother’s Day as another day to raise a toast to them.

W for Woman has truly made the build up to Mother’s Day very special for us. The brand sent us some wonderful goodies and for the very first time both of us donned the same outfit at the very same time.

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I don’t make any bones in admitting that whatever I have learnt about fashion, I have learnt just seeing my mother.

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This Mustard Kurta from their Ivory Coast Collection worked like a charm with both of us. For this particular blog post, while mom kept it more modern, I chose to add a dupatta and we both opted to accessorize wisely. The shimmers in our footwear added quite a bit of glamour to our look.

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The Kurta was actually quite comfortable and makes for the perfect wear for this weather.  What is interesting is that we both picked black lowers to team up with our kurtas.

dThis bond is beyond special and must be celebrated for life!!! We can never thank them enough but as Mother’s Day is fast approaching, let us make sure–we do something special for our lovely moms.

P.S. We loved playing up with our photos oozing with love and added just a tad bit of effects :p

Manish Malhotra gearing up for the Lakmé Fashion Week, with a difference…

Hey, our fashion loving peeps… It has been a while seen we last connected, so today despite the odds (of being under the weather and feeling…well lazy)- we are sharing some worthwhile news from the World of Fashion. And best part being, it is about one of our favourite designers from the tinsel town- Manish Malhotra.

The ace designer announced today that he would be taking up a leading role at next month’s Lakmé Fashion Week which launches WEvolve, a global campaign that empowers young men and women to challenge norms that lead to gender violence. This big show featuring The Blue Fashion Runway is a part of Lakmé Fashion Week’s 15 year celebrations.

Manish Malhotra at his collection preview of LFW SR 2015

The global WEvolve campaign focuses on the worldwide problem of gender violence.  Here is a hard fact that very well supports the need of such a campaign. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that 35 percent of women worldwide, over one billion women, have or will experience either intimate partner violence or non-partner sexual violence in their lifetime. Violence against men is both under-researched and under-reported.

Manish Malhotra and his work will be showcased in WEvolve’s Blue Fashion Runway show on March 18th.

He expressed, “It is a pleasure to be involved in the launch of this WEvolve global campaign that addresses gender violence.  Fashion has a comprehensive and universal appeal and can thus be a powerful instrument to raise awareness and promote action. I congratulate WEvolve and Lakmé Fashion Week and am entirely overwhelmed to show my Blue Fashion Runway Collection and contribute to this great cause.”

Manish Malhotra's collection preview for LFW SR 2015 with Saket Dhankar, Head Fashion IMG Reliance and Purnima Lamba, Head of Innovation, Lakme

This truly reflects the spirit of fashion for a cause and calls for a salute from us….