by luxemi | April 12, 2013 · 12:25 pm
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.
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.
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.
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!

Mute the rest of your outfit with this bright bubblegum pop of color.

We’re dreaming of pairing this golden wonder with a flowy embroidered skirt for a glam hippie vibe.

A crop top can be tastefully sensual when paired with the right supporting clothing.
Images courtesy of Glamour Magazine and StyleBistro.
Like this:
Like Loading...
Filed under Uncategorized, Luxemi Style, Trend Alert, Style Secrets, Style Icons, Designer Style, Trend Update, Celebrity Style, Indian-Inspired, Luxemi Inspiration, Get the look
Tagged as 1990s, 90s fashion, blazer, blouse, box pleats, brights, crop, crop top, diane kruger, Doutzen Kroes, gauchos, Glamour Magazine, high waistline, how-to, Indian Designers, Indian fashion, Indian inspired fashion, jeans, kavita bhartia, maxi, maxi dress, Miley Cyrus, pants, pink, pleats, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, saree, saree blouse, saree blouses, sari, sari blouse, sari blouses, sophisticated, stripes, StyleBistro, top, trashy, trends, United Nations
by luxemi | April 4, 2013 · 11:16 am
It’s spring, and you know what that means, Luxe fans – it’s time for a fashion overhaul! Sunshine means bright colors, shorter hemlines and experimentation galore. Luckily, last week’s Lakme Fashion Week turned out some real trendsetters. Here’s Luxemi’s exclusive glimpse into what you should be wearing this spring – and how to get the look.
TURBANS/HEADGEAR
Maybe this is because of the unbearable heat of a sticky, humid Indian summer. Or maybe the head is the next frontier of fashion. Whatever the case, Lakme churned out some creative ways to dress up your noggin – from vibrant turbans that recall desert shepherds to stick-on halos to fishermen-inspired straw hats. Top your mop for an easy way to dress up a lazy day or take your outfit to a whole new level.

Tarun Tahiliani’s collection featured origami-inspired turbans that looked like flames. Take that, Katniss.

Lazy Sundays require only a straw hat to be chic. Simple, effortless, and easy peasy.

Feeling royal and princess-y? Dress up a gown with regal headpiece studded with jewels and become the belle of the ball.

Toughen up a girly sari and braids with a halo that’s more funky fashionista than demure angelic.

Karishma Shahani’s show featured a turquoise turban to offset a gypsy chic flowy dress.
SARI BLOUSES – REINVENTED
Blouses have continued a cycle of reinvention this year. Designers have refocused attention from sleeves to include different lengths that go from tunic inspired to accessorizing with a bling-y belt. Or how about working just a single, sheer sleeve? From bikini tops favored by the latest Bollywood siren to proper collared shirts any office would be lucky to hire, the blouse is getting a mad makeover.

Why do dresses get all the belt love? Snap on this encrusted piece just below a high-cut blouse and you’ve got a belly chain that’s moved your sari from the trenches of drabness.

Grab a polo instead of your standard blouse and pull on your go-to geek specs for a look that screams chic nerd.

Sexy doesn’t mean showing as much skin as possible. A single, sheer sleeve is even more tantalizing without getting tawdry.

New-age saris take an otherworldly approach with a fishnet blouse that shows off a strapless blouse. Two blouses in one and fearless – we love the clash of demure and seductive.

Who said a sari has to go over your shoulder? Cradle the pallu and show off a spiffy tunic for a cool version of a skirt and top.
URBAN ELEGANCE
Indian street fashion has usually been relegated to two types: the sari or a jeans/kurti combo. Only recently has street fashion become more diversified – we’re talking fusion ensembles that pair parachute pants with Nehru-collared tops, floral embroidered shifts, and a prints-a-palooza. Whether your style veers retro or goth, there’s a little Indian sentiment that can be infused into your outfit.

Don’t think gold and silver can live together? Pile them on as a sewn in necklace on a fiery red dress and watch the magic.

So you have a basic pencil skirt and a top. How to jazz it up? With a fringed and studded belt plus a statement necklace, of course.

Pantsuit, meet jumpsuit. Prevent this from looking like a onesie with minimalistic, strong colors and a statement bag.

Shorts and a tank become dressy when splattered with sequins.

Top a maxi dress with a sequined cap-sleeved top to take an outfit from daytime casual to nighttime elegance.
BLACK AND WHITE
That most classic of pairings evokes films from another era, zebras, and high contrast. Make it a neutral this season for an adventure in fashion. Layer on color through statement jewelry, or try texturizing with lace, brocade, or velvet. Keeping it basic is anything but this season.

Punch up black and white with a red accent!

Channel your inner Audrey Hepburn with a white top tucked into ankle baring pants. Plus points for interesting shirt architecture.

Go from boring to stunning with this simple update to the summer staple shift.

Saris get glam with banarasi work in gleaming thread set against a black background. Simply elegant.

Your nani might have insisted that white saris were for older people. But white saris are fresh, clean, and – with swoops of black – disarmingly chic.
THE EYES HAVE IT
Eyewear isn’t just for nerds and those shielding their eyes from the sun anymore. We’re talking doodads that have rhinestones plastered on them or gold aviators that take the classic into chic territory. Feeling a little adventurous? The runways featured masks and eye patches, but we’re reaching for the nearest neon eyeliners for pupils that pop. Dress up those peepers and see the world differently.

Where in the world are my glasses? No worries – they have a map on them. We’ll stand by eyewear with funky prints like this, no prescription necessary.

Ok, so we won’t be walking out in a mask. But this inspires us to try some thick black eye makeup come summer night for some drama with a slinky dress.

Spice up your sunglasses with red shades, cathedral-esque stained glass, and big jewels for a surefire statement.

We may not reach for an eye patch. But let’s admire how she takes an elegant outfit to edgy new heights with this sparkly accessory.

Put a little mystique with a summery ensemble with some black eyewear; perhaps a dramatic fascinator will help?
</br>
All photos courtesy of Lakme Fashion Week Summer/Resort 2013.
Like this:
Like Loading...
Filed under Indian-Inspired, Killer Accessories, Luxemi Style, Runway Shows, Style Secrets, Trend Alert, Trend Update, Uncategorized, Weddings
Tagged as 2013, 2013 accessory, 2013 fashion, 2013 fashion accessory, Aarti, Aarti Vijaygupta, accessory trends, anarkali, ankle pants, Ashdeen, atlas, Audrey Hepburn, aviators, bag, Balhara, Banarasi, bare, beige, bejeweled, belt, Benaras, benarasi, big, bikini, black, black and white, black/white, bling, block, blouse, blouses, bollywood, border, bow, bracelet, braids, bright, brocade, brown, button, cartographer, cartography, cathedral, celebrity, chandelier earrings, chiffon, collared shirt, coral, crop top, cuff, Daniel Syiem, deep neck, dhruv, dress, Drvv, dye, edging, embroidered, embroidery, eye patch, eyeliner, eyepatch, eyeshadow, Farah, Farah and Firdos, feather, Firdos, fishnet, floral, flower, foil, fresh, fringe, full sleeve, GARO, GARO Priyangsu Sweta, geek, gingham, glass, glasses, glitter, gold, goth, gown, graduated color, graphic, halo, halter, hat, headgear, heels, hindi, ILK, ILK by Shikha Vinita, jeans, jeweled, jewels, kameez, Karishma Shahani, KHEM, KHEM by Khushboo and Prem, Khushboo, Khushboo and Prem, kurti, lace, Lakme Fashion Week, Lakme Fashion Week Summer/Resort, Lakme Fashion Week Summer/Resort 2013, Manish Malhotra, ManpexencaRS, ManpexencaRS by Riddh Siddhi, map, maroon, mask, masquerade, maxi, maxi dress, metal, midriff, mixed, mixed print, monogrammed, mustard, nani, natural, neon, nerd, net, neutral, Nikhil Thampi, Nitya, Nitya Arora, ombre, one sleeve, orange, pant, pantsuit, peter pan, peter pan collar, pink, plaid, pleats, polo, Prem, print, Priyangsu Sweta, purple, Rajat K Tangri, red dress, red lipstick, reinvented, Resort, retro, Riddh Siddhi, Rocky, Rocky Star, Ryindia, Ryindia by Daniel Syiem, salwar, sandals, saree, sari, sequin, sequined, shades, shift, Shikha Vinita, short hemlines, shorts, Shruti Sancheti, siren, skirt, skull, sleeveless, Sonam Kapoor, soup, soup sougat paul, sparkle, spectacles, split, stained, stained glass, Star, statement necklace, stones, strapless, straw, stripes, stud, studded, Summer, Summer/Resort, sunglasses, swans, Tarun Tahiliani, texture, tie, tie-dye, Tiffany, tinted, top, tunic, turban, turquoise, v neck, Valliyan, Valliyan Nitya, Varanasi, velvet, Vijay, Vijay Balhara, Vijaygupta, Vikram Phadnis, white, yellow tights
by luxemi | April 1, 2013 · 12:01 pm

Payal Singhal is making waves in Indian fashion circles
It’s a hard world for Indian fashion out there: you’re walking a tightrope between traditionally intricate motifs and embroidery with minimalistic Western lines and cuts. But Payal Singhal seems to have gotten the balance just perfectly, with industry insiders at Lakme Fashion Week excited about her take on modern Indian fashion.



This isn’t your standard saree shop collection, Luxe fans. We’re talking edgy takes on traditional salwars & anarkalis with tons of lehengas thrown in, all with a healthy dose of traditional “jaali” and filigree work (floral designs dating back to the Mughal empire) for bold global statements.

We’re totally digging the long-sleeve saree blouse (we wrote a how-to-wear guide here before) and Payal’s effortless way to make a saree everyday accessible with a tunic and statement jewelry, as seen below.

So what’s Payal’s thought process in making these effortlessly glam getups? Here’s what the designer had to say about the influences behind her most recent collection, tips for accessorizing outfits, and her uniform for hanging out in the city.

Luxemi: Tell us about your inspiration for this year’s LFW collection and why you felt it was important to integrate swadeshi (locally made) textiles?
Payal: The inspiration started from a book I was referencing for work. It was a book on Islamic architecture where all the textures and patterns were inspired from monuments; the Taj Mahal is the epitome of that. We always use a lot of Indian textiles in our collections because the brand motto is to make Indian clothes with Indian textile, but in a global context.

Luxemi: Describe the Payal Singhal girl – Who is she? Where does she live? What’s her style?
Payal: The Payal Singhal girl can live anywhere, but she’s confident and not afraid to experiment with her style.
Luxemi: What do you think the trends will be for spring/summer wedding fashion this year?
Payal: I think minimalistic, earthy glamour is what will be in fashion this year for the summer brides: cool colors like sand, cream and grey with pops of warm colors like red and yellow and gold tones. It will be more about style than embroidery.

Luxemi: You split your time in New York and Mumbai. What’s your go-to outfit for a night out on the town in New York? Do you change it up when you’re in Mumbai?
Payal: In New York, it’s easy. I usually put on leggings and Frye boots and any wrinkle-free tunic from DVF (something that doesn’t need to be ironed!). I don’t do much different in Mumbai, except switch out the boots for some peep-toe pumps.
Luxemi: Your name is Payal, which refers to the Sanskrit word for “anklet.” What are your rules for accessorizing Indian outfits?
Payal: I always have one focal accessory and don’t over accessorize, so either a statement earring or necklace or ring – but never all 3 together.

Looking to inject a little Payal playfulness in your weary wardrobe? Try pairing an ornate blouse with high-waisted pants. Or drape your salwar in pretty patterns that are elegant yet chic. Neutrals in black, gold and white are anything but boring when your inspiration is the Taj Mahal!
Like this:
Like Loading...
Filed under Indian-Inspired, Luxe Interviews, Luxe Ladies, Runway Shows, Uncategorized
Tagged as 2013, 2013 fashion, accessory, accessory trends, Aditi Rao Hydari, anarkali, anklet, architecture, bangles, black and yellow, black and yellow saree, black and yellow sari, blue, bollywood, Bombay, boots, bride, brides, British Vogue Editor, brocade, chandelier earrings, collar, confident, cool, cream, crop top, designer, designer lehenga saree, designer lehengas, dhoti, Diane von Furstenberg, Dinesh Singhal, Dolly Jones, dupatta, dvf, earring, earthy, embroidery, filigree, filigree work, focal, fringe, Frye, global, going out, gold, gold edging, grandfather, grey, hot, india, Indian fashion, Indian textiles, iron, jaali, jaali work, jodhpuris, lace, Lakme Fashion Week, Lakme Fashion Week Spring Summer Resort 2013, leggings, lehenga, lemon, London Fashion, March 25, MC Hammer, minimalism, minimalistic, Mughal, Mumbai, Muslim, Nehru jacket, New York, NYC, outfit, parachute pants, payal, Payal Singhal, payalsinghal.com, peep-toe, pops, profile, ramp, red, red and black, Resort, ring, sand, sandals, saree, sari, shawl, sheer, shiny, showstopper, silk, silk saree, silver, spring, spring/summer, statement, Summer, swadeshi, Taj, Taj Mahal, tunic, velour, walk, wedding, white, Wills Fashion Week 2013, wrinkle-free
by luxemi | August 20, 2012 · 12:46 pm
If there’s one person who defined fashion photography in India over the last few decades, it’s undoubtedly Prabuddha Dasgupta, who died unexpectedly from a heart attack on August 12. Whether it’s progressive portraits of Indian women or highly tailored, high-fashion editorial shots, the late photographer’s work embodies the bold, confident spirit of the Indian woman. Here’s our homage to Prabuddha Dasgupta, an artist who has inspired, captivated and empowered us.

Prabuddha Dasgupta is best known for his controversial photo book Women (1996), which features nudes and portraits of urban Indian women, but what we love most is his fashion editorial work. His vibrant, poignant photos have filled the pages of magazines like Vogue India, Harper’s Bazaar, GQ India, Elle, Marie-Claire and Vogue, often depicting his well-known muses, Padma Lakshmi and Lakshmi Menon. Dasgupta was also the artistic eye behind major photo campaigns from designers such as Hermes, Ritu Kumar and Yves Saint Laurent. No matter his client, the photographer always brought his signature blend of boldness and beauty.
Prabuddha Dasgupta’s work reminds us why we fell in love with Indian fashion. Here are a few of the Dasgupta photos we’ll remember for years to come!
His photos for Hermes France, depicting the designer’s gorgeous saree collection.


A striking black and white photo from his Ritu Kumar shoot.

Some of his most vibrant photos from Vogue India.



Like this:
Like Loading...
Filed under Designer Style
Tagged as designer indian fashion, gq india fashion photos, harper's bazaar fashion photos, hermes saree line, hermes sari line, iconic indian artists, iconic indian fashion photographers, india fashion magazines, Indian fashion, indian fashion photography, lakshmi menon, padma lakshmi, padma lakshmi photos, Prabuddha Dasgupta, Prabuddha Dasgupta age of death, Prabuddha Dasgupta best photographs, Prabuddha Dasgupta best photos, Prabuddha Dasgupta career, Prabuddha Dasgupta cause of death, Prabuddha Dasgupta death, Prabuddha Dasgupta designer photos, Prabuddha Dasgupta died, Prabuddha Dasgupta elle, Prabuddha Dasgupta gq india, Prabuddha Dasgupta heart attack, Prabuddha Dasgupta hermes france photos, Prabuddha Dasgupta magazines, Prabuddha Dasgupta marie-claire, Prabuddha Dasgupta most iconic photos, Prabuddha Dasgupta nude women, Prabuddha Dasgupta obituary, Prabuddha Dasgupta photographs, Prabuddha Dasgupta ritu kumar, Prabuddha Dasgupta vogue, Prabuddha Dasgupta vogue india, Prabuddha Dasgupta women book, Prabuddha Dasgupta yves saint laurent, ritu kumar, ritu kumar photos, saree, sari trends, vogue india photos
by luxemi | June 18, 2012 · 2:29 pm
As part of our blog series, Luxe Ladies, we’re featuring a real member of the Luxemi.com community to learn about her and her relationship with Indian fashion.
Luxe Report readers, meet Alana. We recently chatted with Alana about her life, her fashion inspirations, and, of course, Luxemi!

Luxemi: Can you give us your stats? Where you live, what you do?
Alana: I live in Chicago and work as a National Account Exec for a trade show company that produces local jewelry trade shows.
Luxemi: How would you describe your style?
Alana: My style is definitely eclectic, and I love mixing highs and lows. I need to feel comfortable and confident in what I’m wearing; those are the 2 fashion rules I always follow.
Luxemi: Where do you find your fashion inspiration? Any fashion icons you look up to?
Alana: I could peruse Paris street style blogs all day if I had the time. Their style is classic and feminine, all the while having an edge that American style cannot seem to grasp. When it comes to my style icons, they are two polar opposites (but I love them both equally!): Kate Moss and Audrey Hepburn. They always look(ed) so comfortable in their own skin, almost as though they never questioned anything they put on. I am very attracted to that type of confidence.
Luxemi: What is your relationship with Indian fashion?
Alana: The brilliant colors used in Indian fashion, especially in weddings, are so appealing, and I have always been a fan of the beautiful, gold jewelry. The fashion is so outgoing and has a personality of its own!
Luxemi: Why did you try Luxemi?
Alana: I knew I needed a major fashion strategy after receiving invites to 4 Indian weddings this summer (one was all the way in Slovakia!). Renting through Luxemi gave me the opportunity to play around with my own style without the heavy investments required for a lot of Indian outfits. In the end, I rented a beautiful sea green sari and an embellished suit.

Luxemi: Where did you wear Luxemi? How was your look received?
Alana: I wore the sari to a wedding reception and the suit to a Sangeet. It seemed every auntie at the reception complemented me on the color, and the girls loved the ornate embellishments. The suit was loved by all, and many asked if I had it custom made!
Luxemi: What did you think about your Luxemi experience?
Alana: I love shopping with Luxemi even when I am not looking for anything in particular. The site is
so easy to shop and I truly trust the fashion sense of the curators behind Luxemi.
Luxemi: Any fashion advice/secrets you’d like to share with Luxe Report followers?
Alana: At the end of the day, fashion is supposed to make you feel good. Just have fun!
Like this:
Like Loading...
Filed under Luxe Interviews, Luxe Ladies, Luxemi Style, Uncategorized
Tagged as benefits of renting sarees, indian clothing rentals, indian fashion audrey hepburn, indian fashion inspiration, indian fashion rentals, indian rental websites, indian wedding rental outfit, online website for borrowing indian clothing, peacock suit, rental sarees for indian weddings, rental suits for indian weddings, salwar trends, saree, seafoam green saree
by luxemi | June 12, 2012 · 3:06 pm
If there’s one person Luxemi loves, it’s Oprah, so you can imagine how excited we were that the fashion and media icon featured one of our accessories in the July 2012 issue of O, The Oprah Magazine. Here’s how to rock the Oblong Gold and Jade Earrings that Oprah loves with your favorite saree or salwar!

As soon as we laid eyes on these intriguing Oblong Gold and Jade Earrings, we knew they had to be part of Luxemi’s new accessory collection. What do we love most about them? For starters, their unique oval shape, which puts a chic twist on your typical drop earrings. A 1950s-inspired flower motif, pearl embellishments and jade-colored accent stones give these gold earrings a vintage-meets-modern appeal that’s on everyone’s fashion radar right now. And did we mention that they only cost $28?
For a classic pairing, we love wearing these earrings with this Short Flare Salwar by Kisneel. The Oblong Gold and Jade Earrings give this festive salwar a modern edge and pick up on the outfit’s kelly green and gold without being too matchy-matchy. It’s definitely a look we could see wearing on a breezy summer afternoon.

We also like the idea of pairing these earrings with a neutral saree to add a flash of color. This Crepe Saree with Inlaid Ribbons is gorgeous and sophisticated on its own, but the pop of jade green from these earrings bring this Grecian goddess look to the next level. The takeaway fashion tip? If you want to make your go-to neutral saree more playful or flirty, use colored accent jewelry like these earrings to add instant visual intrigue.
Love these Oblong Gold and Jade Earrings as much as O, The Oprah Magazine does? There’s more where that came from! Stay tuned this summer for Luxemi’s new accessory collection, which features rings, bangles, collars, necklaces and earrings hand-picked with our Luxe fans in mind.
Like this:
Like Loading...
Filed under Killer Accessories, Luxemi Style, Style Icons
Tagged as crepe saree, Indian jade earrings, jade earrings featured in O Oprah Mag, kisneel salwar, luxemi oprah o magazine july 2012, O, O Magazine, O magazine fashion finds, O magazine fashion finds July 2012, O magazine finds under $50 july, oblong gold and jade earrings luxemi, oblong jade earrings Oprah magazine, Oprah, Oprah earrings July 2012 issue, Oprah fashion trends, Oprah jewelry trends, Oprah Magazine, Oprah magazine fashion july 2012, Oprah Magazine July 2012, Oprah magazine july 2012 fashion, Oprah magazine july 2012 jade earrings, salwar, saree
by luxemi | June 7, 2012 · 9:15 am

Ever since Diane Kruger wowed the Cannes Film Festival crowd last week in her mint green Giambattista Valli gown, the world has been hooked on sugary-sweet sorbet hues. From Versace to Louis Vuitton and Philip Lim to Elie Saab, some of Luxemi’s favorite designers are hitting a refreshing note with sorbet-inspired color palates. Here’s how to add Indian flavor to this luscious look!

Our first glimpse of sorbet-inspired looks was this summer 2012 ad campaign from Louis Vuitton. We’re loving how the designer went super literal, with models wearing lemon yellows, mint greens and strawberry pinks while kicking their feet up in an old-school ice cream parlor.

And then there’s the Elie Saab collection, which features the designer’s signature gorgeous dresses in hues spanning from bubblegum pink to pale blueberry to lemon yellow. Our favorites are the gowns that mix cross-hatching with floral motifs to create a collage of textures — it’s a style that makes these sorbet hues even more delicious to the eyes.

We all know that the saree and salwar silhouettes are the perfect blank canvas for any color under the sun, but for summer 2012, there’s no Indian style note more essential than the sorbet colored saree or salwar. For a softer look, we’re loving this whimsical Peach Anarkali with Zari and Gota Work (which makes us want to run to the closest gelato shop) and this refreshing yellow Crystal and Thread Embellished Saree (which has us dreaming of lemon sorbet).

Mint is definitely the hottest sorbet color of the summer and looks gorgeous on any skin tone! Luxemi’s Tonal Anarkali with Floral Gota Work is the best of both worlds: It has that sweet sorbet vibe we’ve been craving and the flower prints that are trending right now. With intricate gold gota floral work and soft ombré dying, this look hits the perfect balance between ornate and airy.

Think sorbet colors are for the timid? Think again. Punchy separates are all over the summer 2012 lines from designers like Ralph Lauren and Philip Lim, and celebs like Rihanna have been rocking the sorbet color blocking trend ever since. Check out Rihanna’s high-waist Tangerine Tango pants and her cutoff plum shirt for a little inspiration. Luxemi’s Coral Angrakha Salwar with Velvet and Gota Embellishments features the same tropical colors (think: plum and orange sorbet!), plus lush borders embellished with intricate threading and contrast stitching.
What’s the moral of this color story? Sorbet colors are a fabulous way to freshen up your Summer 2012 wardrobe. Luxemi has a saree or salwar in every flavor you’re craving!
Like this:
Like Loading...
Filed under Indian-Inspired, Runway Shows, Trend Alert, Trend Update
Tagged as Cannes Film Festival, color trends summer 2012, diane kruger, elie saab, giambattista valli, giambattista valli diane kruger, louis vuitton, Oscar de la Renta, pastel colors, pastel salwar, pastel saree, pastels, philip lim, runway fashion, salwar, saree, sorbet colored indian fashion, sorbet colors, summer 2012 fashion trends, summer 2012 trends, versace
by luxemi | June 1, 2012 · 8:45 am
Tangerine Tango may be Pantone’s official color of 2012, but we’ve been seeing a whole lot of neon yellow hitting runways, Red Carpets and street style lately. Here’s how to incorporate this “it” summer color into your Indian wardrobe

A color as punchy as highlighter yellow is impossible to ignore, so it’s no surprise that the neon hue received a ton of attention during Spring 2012 runway shows. Designers from Oscar de la Renta to Jason Wu took a bold step into 1980s territory by featuring bright yellow in their spring collections. One of the first neon yellow looks we can remember spotting is this strapless ball gown from Jason Wu’s Spring 2012 RTW collection, which is devoid of all embellishments save a simple black bow.

Which other designers have neon yellow looks in their 2012 collections? Two of our favorites, Proenza Schouler and Diane von Furstenberg, put a futuristic spin on the trend by mixing the highlighter hue with solid and print panels. One standout for us is this tailored, figure-flattering sheath dress with black side panels, chic buttons and a swatch of turquoise zebra print fabric that really ups the dress’ visual interest.

This runway trend has also transitioned to Hollywood, with high-profile celebs like Jennifer Lopez (pictured in Michael Kors) wearing neon yellow outfits on TV and out on the town.

And at the 2012 Cannes Film Festival last week, Freida Pinto rocked a neon yellow Atelier Versace dress, which was a gutsy look not just because of the bright color, but because of the thigh-high slit! If you’re looking for a lacy neon dress reminiscent of Freida Pinto’s, this Neon Lace Flippy Dress is affordable, cute, and a perfect anytime look.

Neon yellow, India street style
If you’re an Indian fashionista looking to punch up your saree wardrobe, neon yellow is a fabulous way to display your bold personality. Not only does neon yellow look gorgeous on Indian skin tones, but it also is perpetually in vogue in India! If you’ve ever visited Rajasthan, you’ll notice that bright, bold colors are the norm in Indian street wear.
This Neon Green Cotton and Silk Saree by Neeru Kumar features gorgeous Zari work and an old-meets-new quality that makes it ideal for dressing up or wearing as is. And like the Jason Wu gown or Jennifer Lopez’s Michael Kors dress, this saree relies on color, not embellishments, to make a statement.

For a neon saree that features color blocking (also in for Summer 2012!), Luxemi has this gorgeous Printed Crepe Silk Saree by Satya Paul. This luscious saree has tropical summer vacation written all over it. Our favorite part? How soft this silk feels against your skin.

And to finish off your neon yellow look, always go for bright lipstick. Luxemi’s favorite shade of the moment? Heat Wave by Nars.
There’s no wrong way to wear neon yellow for Summer 2012. Whether you’re rocking a Jason Wu ball gown or a Luxemi saree, you’ll be sure to command attention in this punchy summer hue.
Like this:
Like Loading...
Filed under Celebrity Style, Designer Radar, Designer Style, Trend Alert, Trend Update
Tagged as bold lip color trend, cannes 2012 best dressed, celebrity neon dress, freida pinto altelier versace dress, Freida Pinto Cannes, Heat Wave by Nars, Heat Wave lipstick, highlighter yellow trend, India street style, jason wu, jennifer lopez, Nars lip color, Neeru Kumar, neon color trend, neon fashion trend, neon lipstick, neon yellow, proenza schouler, salwar, saree, Satya Paul, summer 2012 celebrity trend
by luxemi | May 15, 2012 · 12:04 pm
Spring is blooming all around us, including in our closets. Roses, daffodils, daisies and orchids are by far the biggest fashion trend of Spring 2012, popping up in designer collections from Prada to Prabal Gurung and Dolce & Gabbana to Valentino. Here’s our take on the best florals of Spring 2012.

As soon as the Spring 2012 Oscar de la Renta line hit the runway, the fashion world was swooning over its standout look, a romantic, vintage-inspired strapless gown with poppies and daffodils decorating its bodice and full skirt. Paired with a twiggy, flowered headpiece, this nostalgic look updates 1960s flower power for the modern fashionista.
Another design powerhouse to create floral romance is Valentino. Valentino’s Spring 2012 Collection features too many beautiful dresses to mention, but one memorable look was a wispy long-sleeve knee-length gown featuring an ethereal rose silk fabric that will be just as sophisticated decades from now.

One reason we love the floral trend is that it offers a ton of versatility. Valentino’s line went romantic with flowers, but other designers used florals in a vibrant, flirty way. Case in point? Proenza Schouler, whose mixed floral separates are punchy and super modern, Prabal Gurung, whose mix of blazers and blouses feature a bold purple floral print, and Altuzarra, who uses an edgy blend of leather and Hawaiian-style flowers.

The floral trend is also springing up on some of our favorite celebs. Kudos to Sonam Kapoor for looking both elegant and flirty in this floral and onion dress from Dolce & Gabbana’s Spring 2012 Ready To Wear line. Other A-Listers who love florals: Jessica Alba, Shailene Woodly and Beyonce.

To snag your own whimsy floral look, Luxemi loves this Tonal Anarkali with Floral Gota Work. What makes this anarkali so stunning? The way its designer used gota work to make these flower motifs both intricate and bold. This look has the same soft tones as a lot of the standout gowns in Valentino’s Spring/Summer 2012 collection (which isn’t surprising, considering pastels and sorbet tones are also making a comeback this season).
For a punchier floral that features a brighter color palate, try this Floral Cotton Gota Salwar. This light and airy salwar has embroidered flowers winding perfectly around its seams, a style used in a lot of our favorite Oscar de la Renta Spring 2012 looks.

And if you want the ultimate artisan floral saree, this Handknit Flower and Rich Pearl Saree is breathtaking. Hand-knit red and pink flower blooms wrap gorgeously around this piece’s high-quality netting, and delicate pearl work gives the piece a haute couture feel. It’s romantic, unique, and the epitome of why florals are the perfect look for spring!
Whether it’s Proenza Schouler’s flirty florals or Valentino’s sophisticated blooms, Luxemi loves how flower prints merge Mother Nature with runway fashion. There’s no better time to let your inner flower power shine!
Like this:
Like Loading...
Filed under Celebrity Style, Indian-Inspired, Luxemi Style, Runway Shows, Trend Alert, Trend Update
Tagged as altuzarra spring 2012 floral, anarkali, beyonce floral pants, celebrities wearing flower prints, couture saree, dolce gabbana spring 2012, fashion trends spring summer 2012, floral salwar, floral saree, flower power style, flower print saree, flower print trend 2012, flower prints trend, indian fashion summer 2012, indian inspired floral, jessica alba floral, Oscar de la Renta, Oscar de la Renta spring 2012, prabal gurung, prabal gurung spring 2012, proenza schouler, proenza schouler spring 2012, salwar, saree, shailene woodly proenza schouler, sonam kapoor dolce gabbana dress, sonam kapoor floral, spring 2012 floral trend, spring summer 2012 runway fashion, spring summer 2012 trend flower, summer 2012 fashion trends floral, summer 2012 trends, valentino floral, valentino spring 2012, Valentino summer 2012 flower
by luxemi | May 10, 2012 · 11:20 am
Whether we’re talking about the deep greenish blue color or the super chic gem, Luxemi is loving all things emerald this spring (and especially in May, the emerald birthstone month). Want to work a little green glam into your Indian wardrobe? Let Luxemi’s textiles and accessories help!

In Indian mythology, the word “emerald” comes from the Sanskrit word “marakata,” which literally means “the green of growing things.” And given its earthy green hue, it’s no surprise that the emerald has been associated with spring ever since it was sold to ancient jewelry enthusiasts in the streets of Babylon in 4000 BC. Although South America is home to the world’s most gorgeous emeralds, Ancient Egypt was the earliest known hotbed for these green gems (which quickly became a favorite of Cleopatra and other ancient fashionistas there). The emerald is the world’s original good luck charm, and has always been considered a sign of regal flair. Just ask leaders like Queen Elizabeth II, who swore by the emerald’s ability to keep her in good fortune and good fashion sense.
With fashion icons like Natalie Portman, Halle Berry, and Nicole Kidman continuing the emerald trend into the 21st century, there’s no denying this gorgeous gem (and its deep green-blue hue!) is still on everyone’s fashion radar. And what better time than May to wear this lush jewel tone?

Luxemi’s collection includes an emerald outfit for every style identity, but these two sarees really stand out. You’ll look as regal and charming as the Egyptian queen herself when you wear this Cleopatra-inspired emerald saree with leaf-shaped gold foil stamps and a rich gold border. Its modern earthy appeal makes this Gold Foil Stamp Saree the ultimate polished springtime look. Choose this emerald Firework Saree with Stone Work if you want an outfit as lighthearted and airy as a May day.

Are you looking for the perfect springtime salwar? Luxemi loves the casual charm of this Short Flare Salwar by Kisneel. With gold embroidery and a subtle keyhole cutout, this darling salwar will be your closet’s most versatile look. For an ornate take on emerald, this Green Brocade Halter Suit with Zari Work and Sequins is an artful choice. Its large flower motifs, diagonal stripe order and meticulous vine designs give this halter suit all the shine and intricacy of a peacock feather.

No emerald look could be complete without gorgeous green jewelry. This Pearl, Faux Rubies and Green Onyx Set includes an elaborate necklace and earrings that would add just the right hint of glamour to the Gold Foil Stamp Saree. For a funkier take on emerald, our pick is this Faux Pearl Belt with Emerald and Ruby Quartz. This belt would make major impact paired with a solid-colored saree, but we love it just as much as a stunning statement necklace.

Now that we’re in the heart of spring, it’s the perfect time to infuse a little color into your wardrobe. Why not start with a little emerald green?
Like this:
Like Loading...
Filed under Indian-Inspired, Killer Accessories, Trend Alert, Trend Update
Tagged as celebrity jewelry trends, color trends, designer indian fashion, designer salwar, designer saree, emerald green, emerald jewelry, Indian fashion, Indian inspired fashion, kisneel, Natalie Portman, Nicole Kidman, pearl belt, salwar, saree, spring 2012 colors