Category Archives: Designer Style

3 Ways to Wear a Crop Top

With warmer temperatures comes higher hemlines. And we’re not just talking about your pants and skirts.

Crop tops are making a comeback from their 90s heyday. This isn’t a look for the timid, but if you’re willing to experiment, the crop top promises some va-va-voom for your spring wardrobe. Poppin’ trendsetters like Miley Cyrus and Diane Kruger have stepped out in this trend, and you can too!

And here’s a novel idea: we’re thinking our sari blouses are so gorgeous, why limit them to your special events? Get some extra use out of ‘em and put an ethnic flair on this trend for something equal parts chic and head-turning. Luxemi has shared tips in the past for how to pull this look off, but here’s some fresh inspiration and advice.

TIP 1: BLAZE SOME TRAILS WITH A BLAZER.

Button up that blazer if you're feeling some chills, or let it hang carelessly open for some sass.

Button up that blazer if you’re feeling some chills, or let it hang carelessly open for some sass.

Yes, that workplace staple is a savior come sundown. Whether it’s happy hour or a date with that special someone, err on the side of sophistication with a simple blazer and jeans. Alternate ideas: a shawl or well-tied scarf can be a trendy, unique take on this look.

TIP 2: OPPOSITES ATTRACT.

Get some extra mileage with slouchy clothing partners.

Get some extra mileage with slouchy clothing partners.

You’ve got tons of choices when pairing tops with potential bottoms, but aim to not overexpose with a mini-skirt or your skimpiest shorts. A little coverage goes a long way in being sexy without looking like you’re going to a rave. This might be a good time to pull out those MC Hammer pants you can’t get rid of or those slouchy gauchos. P.S.: Fitted crop tops couple beautifully with baggier pieces. Just ask Miley.

TIP 3: WHICH WAY TO THE GUN SHOW?

Doutzen Kroes knows how to do it: enough skin to scintillate without getting scandalous.

Doutzen Kroes knows how to do it: enough skin to scintillate without getting scandalous.

As in: check out your arms. If you have a sleeve on that crop top, you can afford to go higher on your hemline. Shorter sleeves means a maxi can be your go-to. Think balance: you’re cutting hemlines on one piece, so consider lowering the other.

Here are a few pieces we’re keeping in mind for our next night out. Search “blouses” at luxemi.com for a complete selection of blouses for your next saree and/or soiree!

Images courtesy of Glamour Magazine and StyleBistro.

Leave a Comment

Filed under Celebrity Style, Designer Style, Get the look, Indian-Inspired, Luxemi Inspiration, Luxemi Style, Style Icons, Style Secrets, Trend Alert, Trend Update, Uncategorized

Ekru by Ekta & Ruchira Fall/Winter 2013 Collection: Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week 2013

Ekru by Ekta & Ruchira, AW 2013, Wills India Ekru by Ekta + Ruchira, FW 2013, Wills lifestyle india fashion week Ekru by Ekta + ruchira Ekru by Ekta and Ruchira 2 Ekru by Ekta and Ruchira AW 2013, FW 2013 Ekru by Ekta and Ruchira, FW 2013, Wills India Fashion week 2013

Ekru by Ekta and Ruchira, Wills India fashion week 2013All Photos c/o WLIFW 2013

 

Leave a Comment

Filed under Designer Radar, Designer Style, Runway Shows

Pankaj & Nidhi FW 2013 Collection: Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week 2013


Pankaj & Nidhi FW 6 2013 Wills India Fashion weekjpg
Pankaj & Nidhi FW 2013 Wills India Fashion Week 2 Pankaj & Nidhi FW 2013 Wills India Fashion Week 3 Pankaj & Nidhi FW 2013 Wills India Fashion Week 4

Pankaj & Nidhi FW 2013 Wills India Fashion Week

All Photos c/o WLIFW

Leave a Comment

Filed under Designer Radar, Designer Style, Runway Shows

Vineet Bahl FW 2013 Collection: Wills India Fashion Week 2013

 

All Photos c/o Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week

Leave a Comment

Filed under Designer Radar, Designer Style, Runway Shows

Paris Fashion Week – Manish Arora + Amrapali’s Bold Jewelry Collaboration

If you’re anything like us, you’ve spent the last few months awing over the fabulous fashion at Paris, Milan, New York, London and Lakme fashion weeks. But of all the designer collections we saw coming down the runway, nothing made a bolder statement than Manish Arora’s use of eclectic Amrapali accessories in his Spring 2013 collection. This collaboration is definitely a match made in fashion heaven!

best indian jewelry looks 2012 fashion weeks 2013 spring

Manish Arora was paying major homage to India with his Spring 2013 collection. Between the Gota-inspired borders on his dresses, the vibrant hand embroidery, and the opulent brocade, these looks brought a unique Eastern flair to Paris Fashion Week. Our favorite look was this regal black dress, with its unique neckline and intricate embroidery work. It’s a new take on the salwar that would command attention at any formal event.

amrapali jewelry photos spring 2013

indian jewelry trends spring 2013 fall 2012

But what really made Manish Arora’s designs shine were the accessories. Inspired by Indian royalty, Amrapali handcrafted each vibrant piece to bring a funky, modern vibe to Manish’s garments. Colorful pompoms, quirky animal motifs, floral designs, and chromatic beads made these reimagined tikkas, hand chains and jhumka earrings the perfect ethnic additions to Manish Arora’s India-inspired line.

indian hand jewelry trends 2012 2013

indian jhumka jewelry head piece trends designer

We’re loving the delicate enamel work on this lotus hand chain, which lent a major dose of the wow factor to Manish’s yellow dress. And we can’t forget how festive one model looked wearing oversized jhumka earrings and an eccentric pink tikka.

designer hand jewelry indian inspired celebrity trend

indian jewelry fashionable affordable

Statement jewelry can make all the difference in your style. For an instant hint of Indian opulence, try pairing your outfit with Luxemi’s Victorian Crystal and Black Stone Tikka or our Gold and Pearl Hand Jewelry. We also love the versatility and vibrancy of Luxemi’s Faux Pearl Belt with Emerald and Ruby Quartz, which will add the illusion of embellishment to a simple saree.

amrapali accessories earrings

To emulate the earring looks in the Manish Arora collection, try these Sterling Silver and Pearl Jhumka Earrings and intriguing Kashmiri Kundan Wrap Around Earrings, which are definitely more subtle than the Amrapali pieces but still bring an eclectic ethnic vibe.

If the Manish Arora collection is making you crave all things Amrapali, be sure to check out the design powerhouse’s exclusive interview with Luxemi! And while you’re at it, explore Luxemi’s accessory collection, which features statement pieces to elevate any outfit.

Leave a Comment

Filed under Designer Radar, Designer Style, Killer Accessories, Runway Shows

How To Wear A Saree in Fall and Winter – White After Labor Day

You know how the saying goes: “Don’t wear white after Labor Day.” But with Derek Lam, Proenza Schouler and Alexander Wang all featuring white in their Fall and Winter 2012 collections, now is definitely the time to toss out the conventional fashion rules and winterize your white clothes. Here’s how to transform your white saree into a killer winter wardrobe staple.

long sleeve saree sari lehenga salwar lengha blousesWe’re totally inspired by the winter sarees in Sabyasachi Mukherjee’s Delhi Couture Week 2012 Collection, especially the designer’s stunning white saree-meets-lehenga look. With retro styling and tons of heavy texture, the designer definitely transforms his sarees into couture, cold weather garments. The trick? It’s all about pairing your saree with a long-sleeve blouse and killer accessories.

white sarees by luxemiWhether your saree is casual chic like Luxemi’s Silk and Cotton Striped Saree by Neeru Kumar, has Old Hollywood glam like our Crème Georgette Sequin Saree, or is silky and embellished like this Crepe Saree with Inlaid Ribbons, a long-sleeve white blouse is the quickest way to winterize it. Luxemi’s sarees come with a blouse piece that any tailor could stitch into a long-sleeve top.

indian winter jewelry Not sure how to style your saree for winter? A white saree is the perfect occasion for stunning statement jewelry. For a soft, feminine splash of color, Luxemi loves this Victorian Pink Tourmaline Set or our Victorian Set with Blue Stones and Gold Finish. And if you want to create a bold, eclectic vibe, either our Kundan Set with Pearl Embellishments or our Victorian Set with Green Onyx would give your look major impact.

One of our favorite things about the saree is its versatility. For more fall and winter styling ideas, check out Luxemi’s accessory collection, which includes necklaces, bangles, hand chains, tikkas and earrings to give you the perfect look for any season.

 

Leave a Comment

Filed under Designer Style, Killer Accessories, Luxemi Style

New York Fashion Week – Indian Inspired Spring 2013 RTW Collections

In case you haven’t noticed, Chanel isn’t the only high-profile Western design house to catch Delhi fever: Did you see all the Indian influence in the Big Apple during New York Fashion Week? Here are four Spring 2013 RTW collections with unmistakable Eastern vibes.

Marchesa Spring 2013 RTW

indian fashion runway trends spring 2013

Citing 1960s India as their muse, Georgina Chapman and Keren Craig put an awe-inspiring artisan spin on Marchesa’s signature show-stopping gowns for the Spring 2013 RTW collection. We love how Marchesa stays true to the saree silhouette in a lot of these looks, showing that the classic Indian style is more than ready for the Western runway. But what really sets Spring 2013 RTW apart from other Marchesa collections is the flawless handcrafted elements on these gowns. Bold brocade, elegant embroidery and stunning sequin work are the hallmarks of Indian fashion, and Marchesa knocked these techniques out of the park.

runway fashion trends india spring 2013

We’re swooning over the silver threadwork on the saree-inspired fuchsia gown, and are equally enthralled with the ethereal elements on two other saree looks in the collection: the airy white floor-length gown with silver threadwork, and the one-shoulder gold Chantilly lace gown with draped navy overlay.

runway fashion trends spring 2013

Naeem Khan Spring 2013 RTW

indian fashion runway trends spring 2013

If there’s a household name in Indian fashion, it’s definitely Naeem Khan. The designer to the stars stayed close to his signature Red Carpet aesthetic with his Spring 2013 RTW collection, but we also noticed more Eastern elements than usual in his gowns. His knee-length, one-shoulder draped cocktail dress has fiery ombré dying that evokes the vibrant spirit of Indian celebrations. And as always, Indian embroidery is incorporated flawlessly in his Western looks. We especially love how the prominent Gota-esque threadwork on his crème gown brings its Old Hollywood glamour to the next level.

Diane von Furstenberg Spring 2013 RTW

indian inspired fashion trends runway spring 2013

We all love Naeem Khan and Marchesa for formal occasions, but when we’re looking for casual chic, we can always turn to Diane von Furstenberg. Her Spring 2013 RTW collection is fun, flirty and fabulous (although we haven’t decided how we feel about the Google Glasses yet). The standouts for us were definitely her saree-inspired wrap dresses, which have an Eastern resort wear vibe we can see a lot of Luxe fans rocking. And is it just us, or do the patterns and dyes on these dresses look a bit like Satya Paul digital prints?

Sachin + Babi Spring 2013 RTW

indian runway fashion trends spring 2013

For a Bohemian twist on Indian tapestry, we’re loving the new Sachin + Babi collection. The designers featured tapestry on every silhouette imaginable, from military jackets and mini-dresses to embellished jeans jackets. The brocade on this strapless red mini-dress gives it a gorgeous shine as it hits the runway, and mirror work adds instant impact. Another stunner, the navy and blue sleeveless mini, reminds us why Indian threadwork is so chic. And although we’re not a fan of the red bikini top, it’s hard to overlook the innovative pattern on the lehenga-inspired full skirt that closed out the Sachin + Babi runway show.

Whether it’s Marchesa’s twist on the saree or Sachin + Babi’s tapestry work, Indian fashion is definitely in high demand for Spring 2013. Want to put an Indian twist on your wardrobe? Luxemi’s collection features fashion and accessories to borrow or buy anytime you need a little India in your life!

Leave a Comment

Filed under Designer Style, Runway Shows, Trend Alert

Indian Weddings – Bridal Services from JJ Valaya + Luxemi

Brides to be, we’ve got some exciting news: JJ Valaya, the designer behind the covet-worthy Indian bridal wear you crave, is now using his talents to craft luxury weddings.

wedding planning services for indian brides

Given JJ’s penchant for all things opulent, the JJ Valaya touch will undoubtedly take Indian weddings to a whole new level. JJ says the process will go like this: JJ Valaya Luxury Weddings will partner with other businesses to orchestrate all the details of a client’s wedding, right down to the flowers, invitations and catering.

JJ Valaya has come a long way since launching his couture line 20 years ago, branching out into everything from home décor (Valaya Home) to an exclusive East meets West collection (Valaya Base). The House of Valaya is one of the biggest names in Indian fashion, but despite its massive presence and trendsetting reputation, the design house still known for what that started it all: its signature wedding wear.

Here’s a glimpse of the JJ Valaya Wedding Collection from Delhi Couture Week 2012.

best bridal wear wedding fashion india

best indian wedding fashion designers

If you’re looking for help planning your wedding, Luxemi has two services you should definitely know about. Want to give your bridesmaids fashionable, matching sarees but don’t know where to look? Our Bridesmaid Collection is the perfect solution. Just select your favorite bridesmaid saree from our eight styles, chose the color you love, pick the blouse cut that fits your bridesmaids’ fashion sense, and let Luxemi do the legwork. Each look comes complete with a saree, blouse and petticoat and Luxe Pack (which includes a beautiful garment bag, bindis and safety pins) for each of the girls in your bridal party.

wedding planning services indian brides

buy or borrow indian wedding outfits

As a bride or groom, it’s not just your bridesmaids you want to look good; you also want your wedding guests to find the perfect ethnic attire. That’s where Luxemi’s Wedding Concierge Service comes in. We’ll help your guests select the perfect garment to wear on your special day, providing them with styling tips, videos and advice on wearing Indian clothing. And to make it even better, we’ll also offer them a discount on Luxemi items (which are available for buy or borrow)!

Want to know more about Luxemi’s Bridesmaid Collection or Wedding Concierge Service? Contact us at bridesmaids@luxemi.com for all the details!

Leave a Comment

Filed under Designer Style, Luxemi Promotions, Weddings

Designer Radar – Saloni Lodha Goes Jackie O For Fall 2012

When Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis traveled to Rajasthan, India as First Lady in the 1960s, her fashion captivated both East and West cultures. And it’s still doing so more than 50 years later. Luxe fans, check out Saloni Lodha’s Autumn 2012 line, which uses Jackie O’s 1960s visit to Rajasthan as fuel for her East-meets-West vibe.

Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis best style

During Jackie O’s India trip with President John F. Kenendy, her most iconic look was definitely a satin peach dress with a classic bow at the waist, which she wore during her celebrations in Rajasthan with Maharani Gayatri Devi. Paired with strands of pearls and white satin gloves, the dress is the epitome of the iconic Jackie O style.

Jackie O inspiration by Indian designers

Saloni Lodha’s Autumn 2012 collection channels Jacqueline Kennedy’s glamour through bee-hive-inspired up-dos, skinny headbands and classic fabrics such as tweeds and wools. But what we love most is how the Indian designer captures the vibrancy of Jackie O’s India visit via eclectic colors and funky patterns. The result: Classy, youthful 1960s looks we can totally see Jackie O rocking during her 20s and 30s.

best new indian designers retro collections

The collection starts off with a rich charcoal grey wool coat and grey and fuchsia ombré skirt, which we’re absolutely loving for fall and winter. Another of our favorite day looks is Saloni’s oversized tweed sweater, burgundy pants and a chunky heel. It’s one of those outfits that will make any girl look fabulous without much effort!

Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis best style statements

And then there are the dresses. Between the short-sleeve wrap minis with funky Eastern patterns and the elegant floor-length gowns, the collection is all about making glamour accessible. It’s hard to pick favorites, but one standout is definitely Saloni’s cobalt blue body-hugging gown. What makes this dress so special is the large Indian-inspired paisley pattern, which absolutely pops in white and mimics the curves of the body in a super flattering way. We’re also swooning over Saloni’s floor-length coral dresses. Between their artisan beading and long silhouettes, these gowns add a hint of India to classic 1960s silhouettes.

Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis best dresses

Who knew a presidential visit could spark such chic style statements? For more Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis inspiration, check out this video Saloni Lodha created to go along with her Autumn 2012 collection.

Jodhpur Jackie from Saloni Lodha on Vimeo.

Leave a Comment

Filed under Designer Radar, Designer Style, Style Icons

Delhi Couture Week 2012 – Best Collections + Indian Fashion Trends

If there’s one fashion week in August that really excites us at Luxemi, it’s Delhi Couture Week. Don’t get us wrong: we love Lakme and India International Jewellery Week, but there’s something really special about the innovation and glamour that walks the runway at a couture show. Here are three Delhi Couture Week 2012 collections that turn up the drama dial on traditional Indian fashion.

Shantanu & Nikhil

avant garde indian runway fashion design

modern takes on the saree sari salwar lehenga lengha

As soon as we saw Shantanu and Nikhil’s pink gown with a heavily embellished bodice and mega-volume sleeves hit the runway, we knew the designer’s couture collection was going to have a memorable East-meets-West vibe. The design duo’s looks showcase the rich golds, royal reds, opulent brocade and luxurious draping that we all love in Indian fashion, but with a twist: imaginative silhouettes and luscious layering that take Western influence to a new, sophisticated level. The jackets were absolute stunners, and the gold saree-inspired dress definitely belongs in every girl’s dream closet!

Annamika Khanna

indian runway designer fashion trends

best couture fashion design in india

Annamika Khanna’s Delhi Couture Week collection reminds us that a little bit goes a long way. In the collection, Annamika creates bold, sophisticated looks without relying on mega-volume or vibrant colors, instead letting little details (bold collars on her blouses and exotic pattern work on her jackets) make these garments shine on the runway. Not many designers can pull off the minimalist look this well, and Annamika has her gorgeous silhouettes to thank for it. Case in point: Couldn’t you see girls everywhere from India to Chicago wanting to wear that tailored black jacket with those high-waisted crème pants?

Anju Modi

best couture fashion designers india red carpet

fashion trends in india red carpet runway looks

Anju Modi’s collection is all about giving classic Indian silhouettes an urban, modern edge. Whether it’s her tribal-inspired red, black and gold lehenga or that navy blue empire-waist dress with the embellished full skirt (it totally wowed us when it hit the runway!), this collection shows why Anju Modi is one of India’s most iconic couture designers. We love the more powerful looks, but couldn’t help but swoon over her super-feminine white dress with sheer detailing and a hand-knit bodice.

Whether it’s through shocking volume or innovative silhouettes, couture fashion always gets our fashion creativity flowing. In need of some wardrobe inspiration? Check back with the Luxe Report for more coverage of Delhi Couture Week 2012, and browse Luxemi’s collection of sarees, salwars and lehengas.

Leave a Comment

Filed under Designer Style, Runway Shows