Don’t let the monsoon play spoil sport when it comes to wearing your favourite shoes. You need not wear those old pair of sandals that’s on its way to the bin, just because the rains and muck will spoil your favourite shoes. There’s hope and it comes in lots of colours, variety and waterproof. So take your pick.
Ballerinas What do you get when you blend fashion with comfort? You get stylish waterproof ballerinas for the monsoons, that too in your favourite colours. Ballerinas are flat shoes with round toes that make it very comfortable for office and college goers. Pick them up in bold colours or the sober tones, its time to match your attire no matter how much it pours.
Peep-toes Peep-toes are classic styles from the 80’s that make elegant party shoes. Jazz up your evening party wear with peep-toes that come in high heels - block or pencil heels; and the best part they’re all waterproof.
Crocs Pick up those bright coloured Crocs if you haven’t till now. They come in amazing styles, colours, sizes and obviously very comfortable. They are designed in such a way that they not only provide comfort to your feet but have port holes or vents in them that allow your feet to breathe. In fact, these vents don’t allow the rain water to collect in your shoes that can make your feet damp and uncomfortable. This is the best bet, especially during monsoons where you’re required to keep your feet dry. Crocs are available as slip-ons, with straps, as sandals, with or without buckles and the list goes on.
Slip-Ons From the world of shoes, can slip-ons be far behind? If ballerinas are not your type, pick up a pair of fine slip-ons that will go with your attire. They’re lace-less, flat and provide a lot of comfort especially if your job profile involves a lot of walking in rain or sunshine. Slip-ons can be worn with formal attire or with casuals and present no hassle of those laces coming off and you having to tie them.
Flip Flops Flip flops never go out of fashion be it going to the beach or a walk with your dog. They’re easy to maintain, hassle free and best for your feet this monsoon.
Most leading shoe brands have introduced affordable range of shoes in bright colours and designs that come in waterproof and acrylic material meant to be worn during the rains. However remember, Crocs, slip-ons and flip-flops are ideal for street wear, while ballerinas and peep-toes are best suited for party or office wear. Now, you will never have to think twice before matching your outfit with your dress, no matter how much it rains.
COOL HAIR ACCESSORIES FOR THE WET MONTHS
- Sunila Karir
This is that time of the year when the skies are exceptionally dull and boring…but of course, you can do your bit to brighten up the proceedings with these smoking hot accessories which will brighten up that pretty head of yours.
1. Flower power Flowers are the in thing this season and I do not mean the jasmine, rose or lily varieties which look prettiest on our grannies. Faux flower clips are the latest thing among you pretty ones nowadays. But of course, don’t go overboard by pinning a bouquet on your head or you’ll have bees buzzing around it. Instead, opt for a minimalist approach and pin a moderate sized one elegantly to one side of your forehead…and watch the compliments flow in.
2. Butterfly clips Not to be accompanied with the above accessories for obvious reasons but bright, beautiful butterfly clips work wonders in the rainy season. Always carry them in your bag, in case of a surprise shower. They are the quickest way to hold up your hair in the shortest time possible.
3. Headbang with headbands If you thought that headbands were for schoolgirls, think again. Not only are these in super fashion, what with some international celebs sporting them with great gusto, but also they are super effective in keeping your hair in place when the monsoon winds blow your tresses. Thin, thick, single or multi coloured, cloth, plastic or metal…take your pick as options are aplenty to suit every age, hair and…head.
4. A bauble a day keeps the greys away Add an extra spark to your hair with some shiny baubles. Bejewelled hair clips are in this season having made their presence felt even at the Oscars. They look great even on casual attire like leans. Even a simple hairstyle like a pony tail can be jazzed up using a tiny bejewelled clip.
5. Simply scrunchies They haven’t got their due for all these years, everyone wears them and yet they are considered to be old-fashioned and boring. But there is no denying that there is no pleasure more than having your hair balled up with scrunchies on a rainy day. Recently, scrunchies were in the news for being back in fashion at a major American fashion store. So pick up your most colourful best for the monsoon.
A parting word…whatever you wear on your hair, make sure it’s not too tight or fitting because rain water tends to make hair weak. Your hair will break easily while removing the accessory.
GETTING A TATTOO? HERE’S WHAT YOU MUST DO!
Tattoos are a safe and an interesting way of enhancing your beauty while expressing yourself. Nowadays, tattoos have become extremely common, with more women than men experimenting with colours, styles and designs. If you’ve been considering getting one, here are some things you should keep in mind...
1. Choose a reputed tattoo parlour Tattooing is completely safe at a reputed tattoo parlour. Check if the tattoo artist is taking precautions such as wearing gloves, sterilizing the needle before using it, using a disinfectant to clean the chair you will be using and so on. It’s best to rely on word of mouth while choosing a tattoo parlour. Just for saving a few bucks, do not go to a roadside self-proclaimed tattoo artist.
2. Prepare for the pain Yes, tattoos hurt. The amount of pain depends on where you get it. A tattoo on your bicep, stomach, hip or on the area just above the chest will hurt less as they’re fleshier and have more tissues. A tattoo on your ankle, shoulder, or back will hurt more as these areas are bonier. Also, if you are just going for an outline tattoo, you will be done much faster and will experience less pain as compared to motifs that require filling up. Plan accordingly.
3. Choose your design From solid black tribal designs to delicate floral patterns to devils, skeletons, fairies and more, you can get just the tattoo that suits your personality. Browse your tattoo artist’s portfolio for ideas and take his help to put a unique spin on the design you choose. Remember while choosing that you are going to be stuck with it forever, so ensure that it has eternal appeal. That skull and cross bones might seem like a good idea at 18, but not at 30!
4. Location, location, location Choose which part of your body you want the tattoo on, depending on your lifestyle. If you work in the corporate world, a visible tattoo on your forearm may not be appreciated and may reduce your credibility. So, choose well. Ideally, get a tattoo in a place you can easily cover up if required, such as your leg, waist or your back.
5. Take care Once you are done with getting a tattoo, you will have to take many precautions so that your skin heals well and your tattoo does not turn out smudged and with gaps. All good tattoo artists will give you after-care tips, which will typically include keeping the tattoo dry and clean, using an anti-bacterial cream and not exposing it to the sun while it’s healing. Healing can take 10-30 days. After that, all you have to do is use a sunscreen to prevent fading and show off your beautiful tattoo to all your jealous friends!
CHOOSING THE RIGHT SHOES!
Tanya Munshi
You’re out shopping with your friends, when you stop by a display of a swanky pair of boots. You walk into the store that minute to try them on. In spite of the classy look, they are not as comfortable. So what do you do? Need some handy tips to choose a pair that is both elegant and comfy? Well, here they are!
Cost And Comfort
Branded shoes are definitely expensive, but they are worth every penny. Never compromise on the quality of shoes. Usually, brands are known for their quality and durability.
Make the most of the clearance sales. If the shoes are a little staid in terms of style but are comfortable, then why not!
Ideally try out a pair of shoes at the end of the day. This is when your feet swell up slightly and are thus the largest size they will be.
For buying a pair of closed shoes, take a pair of socks along. Never try on closed shoes without socks as you will not come to know the comfort factor.
Buying a good pair of shoes is like an investment so take your time while selecting a good pair.
Your Shoes And You
If you’re on the heavier side, opt for platforms or block heels to balance your weight. If you’re tall then opt for pencil heels and stilettos to enhance your figure.
To test a pair of heels, stand in them with your knees straight. Now stand on your toes to see if there is any space left under the heels. If there’s none, it means the heels are too high for you.
Such kind of shoes are not suitable as you will land up walking and standing with your knees bent.
Pick styles that have a slight platform below the toe area. Such shoes are more comfortable as they reduce the angle and pressure on the ball of the foot.
You can get foot pads, gel pads and insoles for high heels that are good for your feet.
Getting Used To Heels
Polish your new pair of leather shoes to soften them before wearing.
Practice walking in your new pair of shoes at home for about 10-15 minutes daily. This will prevent shoe bites in the future.
Ensure that when you walk, your heels are vertical. Try to not bend your feet on either side. This happens more in the case of high heels.
Try turning in your heels. This will be a good practice to prevent you from a fall.
Avoid walking in heels the way you would while wearing walking shoes. Heels make you take shorter steps, but that’s normal. Remember, higher the heels, shorter the step.
PICK THE PERFECT NECKLACE
Tanya Munshi
You had spotted the necklace in the showroom and your heart is set on it. But when you actually go to try it on, you realize it doesn’t quite go well with your looks. Here are some handy tips to help you choose a chic necklace for yourself that complements your look and attire.
Pick The Occasion Firstly, decide the occasion for which you plan on wearing a necklace. The occasion will determine the type of dress, which in turn will dictate the type of necklace you should wear.
Remember, you cannot wear the same dressy necklace that you wore for a wedding to a casual house party. Ideally, you should go for a simple necklace for day wear and a more jazzy one for parties at night.
The Collar Matters The type of collar you wear will determine the type of necklace you should sport. For instance, for a V-neck top, wear a simple thin gold/silver/platinum necklace with a pearl or solitaire drop. This single pendant drop will also look stunning on tops with a boat neck or a crewneck. For round necks and noodle strap tops, try the thin and small necklaces that will reach up till your collar bone. For polo neck tops, wrap long beaded strings of necklaces around your neck. For a square neckline, go for a slightly longish thin necklace with a pendant.
Necklace Lengths You should check the size and length of necklaces that you pick; they should complement you and your attire. There are two types of short necklaces – choker and collar. The choker is about 15” to 16” long and rests on your collar bone, while the collar envelopes your neck. Short necklaces accentuate your height. There are several lengths and sizes of long necklaces. Lariats are long necklaces with an open end that allow you to wrap them around the way you want. A matinee is about 24” long and reaches your bust while a Princess is about 18” long and reaches your collar bone.
The Perfect Frame
When choosing eyeglasses, bear in mind that certain frame shapes will balance and complement your facial features, while others can result in an unattractive, awkward look. The following tips will help you select the most appropriate frame shape for your facial features.
There are seven basic face shapes: oval, diamond, round, square, triangle, inverted triangle, and oblong. Here are the frames that best suit these face shapes –
Oval Face An oval face gives you the greatest freedom in selecting a frame shape - you can wear nearly any frame style. Select a frame that is just slightly wider than the broadest part of your face. Keep the size and weight of the frame proportional to your body size and weight.
Diamond-Shaped Face The goal is to add width to your forehead and jaw, and make your cheekbones appear narrower. Choose softly curved frames that are no wider than your cheekbones. Square frames or frames with a straight top and rounded bottom are also good choices. Avoid decorative temples, which will exaggerate the width of your cheekbones.
Round Face The goal is to make your face appear longer and thinner. Choose low, wide rectangles and other short geometric shapes. Frames with hinges located above eye level can help lengthen the face.
Square Face The goal is to make your face appear longer, with softer curves. Choose oval or slightly angular frame styles with curved corners. Frames with hinges located above eye level can help lengthen the face. A bridge located near the top of the frame can also add length.
Triangle-Shaped Face The goal is to add width to your forehead and make your jaw line appear softer and narrower. Choose frame styles that angle up and outward at the top corners. For women, cat's-eye shapes are flattering. Frames with rimless bottoms are also worth sporting. Frames with temples and bridge located near the top of the frame are best.
Inverted Triangle Face The goal is to make your forehead looker narrower and add width to your jaw line. Choose frame styles that angle outward at the bottom. Aviator and "bow tie" shapes are good choices. Rectangular styles are also good. Frames with temples and bridge located near the middle of the frame help balance facial features.
Oblong-Shaped Face The goal is to make your face appear wider and shorter. Choose round styles or geometric shapes with generous vertical dimensions. Decorative temples or temples with contrasting colors can help add width. Frames with temples and bridge located near the middle of the frame are best.
