Tag Archives: Satya Paul

Luxemi’s Top 10 New Year’s Resolutions for 2013

From fashion forward style choices to taking personal leaps (both figuratively and literally) Luxemi is looking forward to a bold 2013. Here are our top 10 New Year’s Resolutions:

1. Wear more color (specifically Pantone’s color of the year, Emerald)

emerald green pantone color of the year 2013 trends

2. Be a little girlier than we were in 2012 by wearing more frills

new year's resolutions 2013

new year's fashion resolutions 2013 indian fashion blog
3. Volunteer more time and resources to worthy organizations (our faves are SAY WE and Saris For Good Karma.

new year's resolutions 2013
4. Indulge our inner maharanis and wear more beads

new year's resolutions 2013 fashion
5. Do a little more DIY, especially when entertaining

indian inspired DIY projects
6. Lose a little weight, or not! (Luxemi’s blouses adjust to fit, so we’ve got you covered either way)

new year's resolutions 2013 fashion
7. Take a leap (of faith, of love, or perhaps even from the sky)

new year's resolutions 2013

8. Stripe it up ala Oscar de la Renta

2013 fashion trends runway

indian saree fashion trends 2013

9. Take a vacation (or two!) to somewhere exotic

new year's resolutions 2013 travel

10. Learn to braid – this 2012 mega trend doesn’t seem to be going away anytime soon

new year's resolutions 2013

What are some of your New Year’s Resolutions? Let Luxemi help you take the fashion risks you’ve always dreamed of by renting a saree or salwar from our eclectic rental collection!

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Luxemi’s Huge Festive Season Sale – 40% off on Retail Looks from Satya Paul and more!

designer indian clothing sarees saris for festive season diwali

If you’re anything like us, you’ve been dying to rock a new saree, salwar or accessory during festive season. And our huge retail sale (going on now!) makes it easier than ever for our Luxe fans to celebrate Diwali in designer style.

designer indian clothing fall winter 2012 2013 trends

saree sari salwar indian clothing designer trends 2012 2013

Here’s how it works: Between now and November 7, Luxemi’s entire collection of fabulous retail fashion is 40% off. You’ll save big on our gorgeous blouses, sarees, salwars, lehengas, and accessories, and that includes pieces by designers like Satya Paul, Kavita Bhartia and Nikasha! Just visit our website, pick the “buy” looks you love, and give yourself a high-five for saving so much money on the stunning new additions to your wardrobe.

indian blouses on sale trends 2012 2013

india accessories jewelry fashion trends jewellery 2012 2013 fall winter

A promotion like this doesn’t come around everyday, so be sure to take advantage of these gigantic savings before the sale ends on Wednesday!

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Vintage Saree Photos + Saree History – The Saree is Still Pure Magic

The saree has been enchanting the world ever since the first woman wrapped herself up in its six yards of magic thousands of years ago. Whether it’s conveying a playful vibe at a traditional Indian celebration or commanding the spotlight on the Red Carpet, the saree is still a vision of sensual sophistication. Magic guaranteed.

history of saree sari classic photos

According to one folk story, a love-stricken weaver created the first saree after he dreamt of a beautiful, sensuous woman. He spun long drapes of fabric to mimic the woman’s flowing hair, and infused vibrant colors in the saree to match her personality and warmth. Overwhelmed with how beautiful the garment was, he didn’t stop draping until the fabric stretched to 9 yards. The weaver left the midriff bare, reflecting the Hindu belief that the navel is the ultimate source of creativity and life.

History says the saree dates back to 2800 to 1800 B.C. By then, ancient Indus Valley civilizations were already captivated by its sensuality and magic. Sexy without showing too much skin, the saree has been called “the apparel that covers all yet reveals all.” Styles have changed through the centuries, but there’s one thing we know for sure: the saree’s sensual draping and alluring midriff still have the same magical aura today.

Want proof that the saree’s six yards of magic transcends any era? Check out these gorgeous 1950s snapshots of women in sarees (via Life Magazine).

history of the saree sari iconic indian fashion retro

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fashion-1920s-trends-best life magazine india photos

Luxemi can help you channel the sophistication and beauty of these women in vintage sarees. Luxemi’s Red Screen Print with Gold Sequins by Satya Paul features the same movement and artistic pattern pairing as the vintage saree in the first photo. For a strong, simple statement like the woman in the white saree, our pick is this Embellished Saree with Contrast Blouse. And to emulate the third woman’s charisma, try this plaid-inspired Giraffe Print Sequined Saree by Satya Paul. It’s got the iconic six yards of magic, plus plenty of sequins hand-threaded throughout.

new vintage inspired sarees saris six yards of magic luxemi rental borrow looks designer fashion

And here’s the best part: Women of every body type can capture the saree’s six yards of magic. Luxemi’s collection includes sarees for every occasion and personal style — plenty of magic included.

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Filed under Indian Fashion 101, Luxemi Inspiration, Luxemi Style

Solange Knowles – Fashion Rebel with A Colorful Streak

Beyoncé Knowles may be a fashion household name, but her little sister Solange has been gaining a style following of her own lately. With her penchant for bright colors, a funky retro vibe and an undeniable adventurous streak, Solange is quickly becoming one of our fave fashion heroes.

Celebrity street style 2012 trends

We can’t think of many celebs who pull of street style as effortlessly as Solange does. Whether she’s hanging with her son, Daniel Julez Smith, Jr., or taking a stroll in NYC, she always steps out in style. We love how she put a fresh spin on office wear classics by pairing these high-waisted pleated pants with a vintage fitted jacket. But what made the look was the vibrant orange blouse, which is fitting, given that no Solange outfit is complete without a quirky pop of color.

Celebrity Red Carpet print dresses 2012 best looks trends designer gowns

Even though Solange’s street style has us smitten, Beyoncé’s little sister can definitely work the Red Carpet. We’re digging the daring print and asymmetrical hems on this artsy Vera Wang gown she wore in Spring 2012. And did we mention her gorgeous, bright pink lip color?

beyonce vs solange best fashion statements style

Whether it’s neon lipstick or a bold designer dress, Solange’s daredevil demeanor shines most when she turns up the color dial. We’ve spotted Solange in a lot of yellow lately, but her custom Rachel Roy dress from the 2012 Met Gala definitely took her color fetish to the next level. The gorgeous peplum waist and modern, architectural lines on this dress were the perfect, classic canvas for Solange’s spunky signature hue.

celebrity floral flower pattern trend 2012 solange vs. beyonce better style

Solange is also known for picking funky, unconventional patterns like these florals, which remind us of the standout pieces from the Spring 2012 Louis Vuitton collection. (Beyoncé has also been embracing flower prints. Did you see her rocking those Hawaiian print pants from Stella McCartney’s 2012 Resort Wear Collection?)

beyonce vs. solange knowles best style indian infuenced accessories collar necklace gucci purse funky interesting manicures

One aspect of Solange’s style that really sets her apart from the pack is her fondness for fabulous accessories, whether it be a daring hairstyle, vintage Chanel, unconventional nails or, of course, bold necklaces, rings, and bracelets. We love Solange’s affinity for pairing chunky bracelets with everything from designer evening gowns to vintage button-down blouses. We can see our Luxe fans looking just as gorgeous in their Indian bangles or collar necklaces!

indian inspired runway fashion beyonce and solange knowles bright colored sarees saris salwars suits

Want to inspire your inner fashion risk-taker? Luxemi’s collection includes sarees and salwars (pictured above!) that have Solange’s funky taste written all over them. Whether you’re going for her signature yellow or an imaginative print, we’ve got the perfect look to push you outside your fashion comfort zone.

Pictured above:

Mango Salwar with Gota Embroidery by Nikasha $258 to Borrow

Striped Saree with Contrast Blouse by Satya Paul $358 to Buy

Striped “Mod” Embroidered Saree by Satya Paul $178 to Borrow

Hot Pink Silk Coat with Sequins$578 to Buy

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Filed under Celebrity Style, Indian-Inspired, Killer Accessories, Luxemi Style, Style Icons, Trend Alert

Summer 2012 Trend – Neon Yellow Everything

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

neon colors runway trend

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.

neon yellow designer dresses celebrity fashion 2012

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.

neon yellow dress trend American Idol J Lo

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.

neon yellow celebrity inspired indian fashion

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.

New Dehli street style bold colors India

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.

designer neon sarees neeru kumar

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.

neon orange red lipstick trend spring summer 2012

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. 

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Filed under Celebrity Style, Designer Radar, Designer Style, Trend Alert, Trend Update

Zodiac Inspired Indian Fashion – Capricorn, Taurus, Virgo (Earth Signs)

Just for fun (and because horoscopes are our favorite guilty pleasure!),Luxemi is kicking off a new blog series pairing each of the 12 Zodiac signs with an outfit or accessory from our collection to match its personality traits. We’re starting off the series with the earth signs – those down to Earth, dependable and patient people you can always count on for support. Here’s Luxemi’s Indian fashion horoscope for the three earth signs: Capricorn, Taurus and Virgo.

Taurus (April 20 – May 20)

Indian designer fashion inspired by spring 2012 zodiac signs

Dependable, persistent and loyal, Taurus is the most generous of the 12 Zodiac signs. It’s also one of the most stable, and is often depicted in pink. If you’re a Taurus, you share a sign with celebrities like Penelope Cruz, Renee Zellweger, Cate Blanchett and Jessica Alba. What’s our pick for the dependable yet fashion-forward Taurus? This Red and Blue Deconstructed Bandhani Saree by Neeru Kumar, which has a pretty pink hue that makes it wearable no matter the season  — something any practical Taurus would look for in a wardrobe staple!

Virgo (August 23 – September 22)

runway and zodiac inspired salwars spring 2012 fashion

Virgo’s modesty, meticulous nature and analytical side give this sign an unmistakably sophisticated quality. This sign’s signature color, navy, reflects its fair, judicial nature and classic, understated style. Cameron Diaz, Beyonce Knowles, Nicole Richie and Salma Hayek are some of fashion’s most iconic Virgos. To discover your own Virgo-inspired style, Luxemi suggests this timeless Bell Sleeve Zari Salwar that has just the right touch of embellishment to pull Virgo out of its modest comfort zone. For another tasteful sign of sophistication, try pairing that salwar with this simple Victorian Polki Tikka.

spring 2012 trends headpieces tikka indian inspired accessories

Capricorn (December 22 – January 20)

spring 2012 fashion trends india runway sarees salwars

Capricorns are fiercely independent, ambitious, reserved and patient, making them the most stable of all the Zodiac signs. Capricorns are careful and disciplined, so it makes sense that they often gravitate to the color black. Kate Middleton, Mary J. Blige, January Jones and Michelle Obama are all Capricorns, further proof that women with this sign are driven, focused and ready to take on a challenge. For a reflection of Capricorn’s reserved yet confident nature, Luxemi loves the classic shape and modern shine of this LBD Saree with Embellished Shoulder.

Whether you’re a confident Capricorn or a tenacious Taurus, Luxemi has the perfect saree or salwar for you. Are you an air, water or fire sign? Stay tuned this week and next for a wardrobe recommendation straight from Luxemi, with love.

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Filed under Indian-Inspired, Luxemi Style, Outfits To Die For

Indian Fashion 101 – How to Select a High-Quality Saree

Many have asked us, “What sets Luxemi apart?” Aside from fashion-forward designs and incomparable service, the best answer we can give is quality. Here are five easy ways to tell what sets a high-quality Luxemi saree apart from the rest of the Indian fashion pack!

We go for hand embroidery.

high quality sarees are hand embroidered not made by a machine

We all know that there’s no comparison between a piece of clothing that’s handmade by an artisan and one stamped out by the thousands in a factory. When you choose a saree that’s hand-embroidered, you know that its threads and embellishments have been sewn and placed carefully with an artistic eye  — meaning that your garment will have a truly unique design that’s your and yours alone! There’s nothing better than wearing a saree you know has been made with love and attention to detail, which you just can’t get that from a mass-produced, machine-made garment. With Luxemi’s hand-embroidered sarees, you’ll know you’re wearing something that is truly one of a kind. Pictured above? A handwoven Kashmiri saree that artisans spent 5-6 months creating. Now that’s love.

We avoid synthetic blends.

what a high-quality saree looks like

Have you ever spotted a saree with the most gorgeous hand-embroidered embellishments you’ve ever seen, only to be totally disappointed by how stiff and scratchy the fabric feels once you try the saree on? It’s a situation that’s happened to us a million times in Little Indias in every major city. A good rule of is to always go with pure fabrics and avoid synthetic blends that don’t breathe or move! A saree made from pure fabric will feel soft and luxurious against your skin, will withstand more wear and tear, and as an added bonus, it will also give you that gorgeous flow you always see when sarees come down the runway. Luxemi’s collection features mostly pure fabric sarees, and we hand-pick each of our net sarees to make sure they feel soft as lace against your skin! One feel of the soft fabric in Luxemi’s Tied With a Bow Georgette Saree and you’ll know the difference.

We make sure to be wary of color running.

no bleed designer sarees

And while we’re on the topic of pure vs. synthetic fabrics, here’s another major plus of going for a saree made from a pure fabric: it cuts down on color bleeding! When color is applied to a synthetic fabric, it’s much more likely to run, ruining the gorgeous aesthetic of your garment. Color is a lot less likely to bleed when you wash a pure fabric saree, meaning your saree’s pattern or dyes will keep looking just as perfect as when you purchased it! Rest assured, Luxemi fans: we test all our sarees for color running before adding them to our collection! The super chic pattern on this Giraffe Print Sequined Saree by Satya Paul is the garment’s knockout feature — and by testing it for color blurring, we make sure it stays that way.

We check the falls.

Neeru Kumar saree

There’s nothing worse than having the falls on your saree get caught on your shoe or even rip off when you hit the dance floor. What’s the best way to keep the fabric along the bottom of your saree perfectly intact? Look for a garment with falls that are tightly and evenly stitched. Luxemi’s sarees feature high-quality falls that won’t fall off or snag… we make sure of it. Want to see the vision of high quality? Check out this Yellow Deconstructed Bandhani Saree, one of the latest creations from chic Indian designer (and Luxemi favorite!) Neeru Kumar.

We know what quality feels like.

 designer saree high quality embellishments

Aside from fabric, color, embroidery and embellishment, the feel of a garment is critical. If a saree is pure chiffon, it should feel lightweight and flow easily when you take it off the hanger. When you’re checking out a heavily embroidered saree, it should actually feel heavy to the touch. Luxemi makes sure each of the gorgeous sarees in our collection has an undeniable high-quality feel, which you’ll recognize as soon as you slip it on. Trust your eyes, but if all else fails, always trust your fingertips. Not sure what quality heavy embroidery should look and feel like? Use this lehenga saree as your benchmark for saree perfection.

Whether you’re looking for a saree to wear during the upcoming wedding season or to a casual daytime event, Luxemi can help you find the perfect high-quality choice that fits your style. Only the best for our Luxe fans!

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Filed under Indian Fashion 101, Luxemi Style, Style Secrets, Uncategorized