Table of contents for October 2019 in Brides Today

PRASAD NAIK A student of the J J School of Applied Arts in Mumbai, Prasad Naik took to photography as soon as he graduated in 1996. A strong passion for his work, eye for detail, and flair for capturing people has landed him coveted assignments with some of the finest fashion magazines and lifestyle brands like Vogue Eyewear, L’Óreal, Swiss International Airlines, Sony, Samsung, and many more. Here, he photographs the free-spiritedness of our cover star in ‘The Flower Child’, pg 51. Vacation spot you keep going back to. Japan. RAQUEL SOEIRO Raquel Soeiro is a Portugal-born makeup artist living and working in Dubai for the past six years. Previously a cabin crew for almost 20 years, she turned to working as a professional makeup artist after training under Toni…

Golden peacocks from Persia, flowers embroidered with pearls and beads, and a modern rendering of the classic paisley—these are the motifs that dominate JJ Valaya’s new couture collection, Tabriz. The bridal range marks the end of the designer’s three-year creative sabbatical and includes lehenga sets, saris, and anarkalis for women, and achkans, kurtas, and turbans for men. The ensembles feature the brand’s signature palette of midnight blue, red, burgundy, as well as ‘nugray’—a new shade Valaya has developed, which combines nude with grey. “The collection is inspired by the arts, crafts, ceramics, and museums of Persia from the 16th to 19th centuries, and also features traditional Indian craftsmanship including gota patti, mukaish, dabka, zardosi, and aari, among others,” says Valaya. And you also have an embellished burgundy lehenga set that…

Give your old jewellery a modern update with the service by Aurus Jewellery, where vintage pieces are reworked with Basra pearls, hezonite, coral, uncut diamonds, amethyst, citrine, opal, and other precious stones. These ‘revival pieces’, in upto 22k gold, ensure that your inherited jewellery doesn’t stay locked up in the locker. Instead, wear them with a lehenga or even a smart white collared shirt for a modern statement. Appointments at the studio in Ahmedabad, mail@aurusjewels.com, and 088661 86000 ON LOVE’S WATCH There’s no such thing as too many reminders of your loved one—at least according to Jaipur Watch Company. Their customised watches allow you to get your spouse’s name and portrait, and your wedding date engraved on the dial. Materials used vary from gold to stainless steel, diamonds, emeralds, and…

“IF YOU’RE EMPATHETIC, SENSITIVE, AND KIND, YOU AUTOMATICALLY FEEL BETTER, HAPPIER, AND MORE BEAUTIFUL” It is raining and some commotion is at play at The Charcoal Project, a concept store in suburban Mumbai. The chaos is not unexpected on a monsoon morning and our cover star Aditi Rao Hydari is unaffected by the bustle that surrounds her. In a summery red dress and dad-core white sneakers, she hums along to Señorita by Shawn Mendes and Camila Cabello. “Music is something that makes me feel good no matter what,” says the actor with a girl-next-door demeanour. The artiste, who turns thirty-two later this month, has been shuttling between Tollywood and Bollywood since she was twenty. “I will probably be shooting in London on my birthday. I am okay with that. I…

Our edit of the newest jewellery you’ll want to add to your trousseau…

Rare Heritage is a Mehta Emporium initiative that houses bridal couture as well as exquisite traditional and vintage jewellery. Curated especially for the bride and her family, the jewellery has a modern twist to suit contemporary tastes. TARIFA, their latest collection, is celebration of the brand’s fifth anniversary. It is all about the execution of fine workmanship using nuances of colour like a painter’s palette, creating audacious and fearless pieces with intricate work of gold, diamonds, sapphires, emeralds, rubies, and tanzanite. The jewels are meant to be pieces of artwork that become a part of the legacy of the families. The unique designs are showcased in their elegant bridal chokers, stunning earrings, majestic mathapattis, charming bracelets, and exquisite cocktail rings allowing brides to bring to their idea of a perfect…

FOR HER Celebrate your wedding by choosing a warm, intimate fragrance to pair perfectly with your ensemble. Apply perfume on the wrists, nape of the neck, and hair for lasting power. FOR HIM There is no better cologne for a groom than one that is masculine and long lasting. Choose rich, deep base notes that will last for hours through each event.…

A reputed name in the beauty industry, Elton J Fernandez is a powerhouse of talent. His signature brows on cover star Aditi Rao Hydari have left many wondering how he creates flawless looks. Here, he tells us the secrets behind Rao Hydari’s ever-so-glamourous makeup and hair. How can a bride recreate the cover look? Dust some talcum powder on the crown, toss your head over, scrunch up your strands, and you’ll get beautiful texture, like a day-old blow dry. For makeup, play with muted colours on your lids, apply multiple coats of mascara, a soft contour, and heavy blush. Since you are the ‘brow king’, what’s your advice for filled-in eyebrows that last? Invest in a good brow primer—most of the products have an adhesive-like quality to them, which ensure…

1. MASALA MARTINI BY BARMOBILE Scotch paired with star anise, nutmeg, and cinnamon with the tartness of lime, makes is the base of this cocktail. It’s a drink that champions kitchen spices and pairs perfectly with an Indian meal. Topped with air bubbles made from dry ice, it is a young, molecular twist to the classic whiskey sour. 2. THE TRIP BY AMI SHROFF A must-have zesty cocktail—it is tequila-based with turmeric, saffron, honey, orange, and lime–bursting with freshness and zing. Ideal for those who prefer to stay calmly buzzed in the frenzy of a big fat Indian wedding. 3. THE CLASSIC WHISKEY SOUR BY PASS CODE ONLY The classic whiskey sour is an all-time favourite at winter weddings. Lemon, egg white, and a dash of aromatic bitters are the…

We kept bumping into each other at random places. Each time we met, we couldn’t stop looking at each other and the chemistry was undeniable. Finally, we were on the same flight to Goa, and it was on this break that we spent a lot of time together and got to know each other well. Daniel proposed to me at my workplace. It was on the Adventure of the Seas cruise ship sailing from Fort Lauderdale, Florida to the Caribbean. On the second day of the cruise, he proposed after dinner over a glass of wine. I envisioned the wedding completely differently. Although I’ve been to Germany several times, I had never attended a wedding or visited the town that Danny [Daniel] comes from. The Town Hall that I initially…

Fresh mimosas, personal makeovers, a photoshoot, and an unmatched rooftop view of the New York skyline—these are just some of the benefits that you can expect during your bachelorette getaway at The Knickerbocker. Here, at the city’s oldest luxury hotel in Times Square, brides can opt for the Girlfriends’ Getaway Package, for a hassle-free trip. Enjoy a toast of chilled Pommery champagne and orange juice on your arrival, a classic American breakfast at Charlie Palmer at The Knick, and an in-room Elite Blowout or Makeup Application by NOMI Beauty for the group. And if you opt for both beauty services, a faux lash application or collagen skincare treatment is on the house. Followed by a private 30-minute professional photo session with Shoott! For the pre-wedding shopping spree, the centrally-located hotel…

PS: Always ensure the menu is a reflection of your tastes and sensibilities and in sync with the mood of the wedding. FOOD, INC. CATERING BY YUM YUM TREE Founded by Varun Tuli, Food, Inc by Yum Yum Tree is considered one of the best caterers in India. From dinners to cocktails and receptions, the team does close to 150 events a year. They offer a diverse range of cuisines such as pan-Indian, Asian, and continental. www.foodinc.in; catering@theyumyumtree.in FOODLINK BY SANJAY VAZIRANI Sanjay Vazirani was the food hero at Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh’s lavish wedding at Lake Como, Italy, with his classic Sindhi and Konkani dishes. An alumnus of Cornell-Nanyang Institute of Hospitality Management, Singapore, Vazirani’s vision is to ensure every meal is one of a kind. Foodlink.in; sales@foodlink.in…

FROM THE EDITOR THE GREAT INDIAN WEDDING IS ALL ABOUT COLOUR. BRIGHT AND BEAUTIFUL. RENDERED IN CINEMASCOPE. This October’s incredible guest editors are the very definition of this spirit of unbidden joy. Thirty-three years in the business, their style is both updated and classical. They combine the past and present to create future that is nothing short of magical. And that is the advice Abu Jani Sandeep Khosla (AJSK) give their bride. “A happy bride is the most beautiful bride of all. Party hard. Make incredible memories with your family and loved ones. Lose yourself to the magic, the sheer romance, and drama of the occasion.”— ABU JANI SANDEEP KHOSLA Q: When AJSK design for a bride, what are the three things they keep in mind? Abu Jani: Our vision…

ACE THE BASE “Find a formula that works best for you. For normal to dry skin, use an oil-based primer before applying a hydrating foundation. Matte-finishes help absorb excess oil.” POUT PERFECT “I love lipsticks with a matte or semi-matte finish, because they are long-lasting and you don’t have to keep touching up.” MAXIMUM IMPACT “Always start with a nude eyeshadow base and then apply the colour of your choice. Highlight your inner corners and brow bone with an iridescent pearl—it helps open up the eyes.” SWEET CHEEKS “If you want a subtle highlight, use a powder. Choose a liquid shimmer for a bolder and edgier shine, if that’s what you prefer. Follow it up by powder dusted on top.”…

With colourful and intricate embroideries that are an ode to the Indus River and its cultural heritage, Good Earth’s latest collection ‘Sindhu: Threads That Bind An Undivided Past’, offers unique and special options for your trousseau. Create the perfect Indian look with a contemporary feel with salwars, pashkas (knee-length kurtas), chogas (long-sleeved robe), shawls, long jackets, kediyo tops, lehengas, or saris. Sindhu offers a variety of interesting crafts, textiles, and techniques, in both traditional as well as innovative reinterpretations. Take the Fostat range, for instance: A hand-blocked Ajrakh pattern from the 15th century that has been reinterpreted in silk brocade by the weavers of Benaras. Meanwhile, the Ajrakh Mingora features signature patterns of clouds, lotuses, dots, and fish-scales from the Swat valley. The collection also has traditional Mashru stripes from…

CLASSIC BOLLYWOOD THE DESIGNERS HAVE CLOSE TIES WITH THE FILM INDUSTRY. APART FROM WORKING WITH A LIST OF TOP STARS, THEY HAVE ALSO CREATED COSTUMES FOR ICONIC FILMS LIKE DEVDAS AND, MORE RECENTLY, VEERE DI WEDDING. BUT THEIR ULTIMATE BOLLYWOOD MUSE WAS MEENA KUMARI. “FROM PAKEEZAH TO SAHIB BIBI AUR GHULAM, KUMARI WAS THE ULTIMATE TRAGEDY QUEEN,” SAYS KHOSLA. “SHE HAD SO MUCH STYLE AND THE WAY SHE DELIVERED HER DIALOGUES WAS MAGICAL. THE MUSIC, DANCE, OPULENCE AND SHEER AUDACITY OF FILMS LIKE PAKEEZAH MADE THEM SPECTACULAR TO WATCH,” INTERNATIONAL CINEMA “One fine day we will direct a film, to start with, maybe it will be a wedding film,” says Khosla. “Decadence is part of our philosophy and so we love big beautiful costume dramas. One such film is La…

CHIKANKARI: In 1994, after two years of research and restoration, Abu Jani Sandeep Khosla launched their first ever chikankari collection. The Lucknowi embroidery style was traditionally executed on muslin but the duo decided to work with base fabrics such as chiffon, georgette, and organza, as well. The designers are passionate about the colour white and the romantic nature of Lucknow, but their work with chikankari also serves a social purpose that is dear to them. “Chikankari is a craft that’s done by women alone,” reveals Khosla. “Back in the day, women used to take their work home and do it in their own time. Even now it’s something that empowers them.” ZARDOZI: The brand’s signature embroidery with real gold and silver thread is created in Mumbai at their in-house studio.…

Layering continues to be a key trend in jewellery. Choose different lengths of mangalsutras to accentuate the depth of your neckline. The new-age mangalsutra is embrossed with a meenakari heart detail. Eclectic and fun, it works well with both traditional and contemporary wedding looks. The appeal of a traditional maharashtrian vati mangalsutra gets elevated when worn with a classic black pantsuit.…

TWIST AND TURN FOR THE WEDDING From classic buns to messy up-dos, the ultimate trick for recreating a bride-appropriate bun is adding an unexpected detail. Add glamour by braiding the hair at the crown, or create softness to the face with loose strands. BIG VOLUME FOR THE ENGAGEMENT Try a fun take on the ’50s mohawk this wedding season. Scrunch up your hair at the crown, to achieve a bouffant. BY YOUR SIDE FOR THE COCKTAIL Recreate this glamourous look by making a deep side part and letting your hair loose at the back, or tying it up in a neat bun or ponytail. TOP CHOICE FOR THE MEHNDI Experts have given their stamp of approval to pairing a ’90s knot with a formal ensemble. The best part of this…

As a newlywed bride you are bound to have several things on your mind—post-wedding functions, guest visits, settling in with your new family, the list is endless. In the midst of all this, you may not have time to think about what is a critical part of your relationship with your partner—making birth control a part of your life. This is where we step in, and assist you with choices available and their pros and cons. WHAT IS BIRTH CONTROL? “Birth control, also known as contraception and fertility control, is a method or device used to prevent pregnancy,” says Dr Roopa Vernekar consultant at obstetrics and gynaecology Malathi Manipal Hospitals, Bengaluru. Effective birth control will help you plan your family according to your needs and more importantly, proper contraception reduces…

Discover opulent drapes and accessories to match with your festive look.…

KOOZIES Drinks will still be flowing at the afterparty—hand out monogrammed cup holders to your guests to ensure they don’t end up with frozen palms. FLIP FLOPS Comfortable slippers will ensure your guests don’t hit the bed early due to tired feet. Even better if they are custom-made-they can be carried back as a souvenir. HANGOVER KITS Arm guests with water and a vitamin B tablet, which will help their body hydrate and process alcohol better. If that doesn’t ward off the hangover, send a bottle of water with Advil to their rooms next morning, which will hopefully do the trick. LIVE ACT Bring in a performer—jazz band, singer, comedian, dancers, or anyone who you and your guests will enjoy to kick-start the afterparty. GLOW IN THE DARK Create a…

Perched on a swan-shaped boat in the middle of a lake, Alen proposed. It was on the last day of my trip to Copenhagen in 2018. Even though he had bought the ring earlier, he chose not to propose for quite some time. And when he did, it was an unexpected yet private moment. We did a court wedding in a mere 10 minutes. Since I am not religious, the signing was conducted by a state elected minister and not a priest. We will have a wedding with friends and family next year, which will be intimate, in a beautiful destination, with lots of partying. The funniest moment of the evening was our exit from the town hall. Since I wore a sari, the tourists outside began taking photographs and…

PS: Fix a trial run a few months before the wedding, so you have time to fine-tune your look AAKRITI KOCHAR Aakriti Kochar’s biggest strength is her ability to create a variety of fuss-free looks. She focuses on keeping the aesthetic natural and subtle. Aakritikochar.com; aakritikochar@gmail.com ANU KAUSHIK Legendary makeup artist and hair stylist Anu Kaushik has a knack for decoding a client’s personal style, ensuring her brides look like the best version of themselves. Anukaushik.com; akmakeover@gmail.com AMBIKA PILLAI Pillai has been in the business for more than three decades and her clientele includes Sonam Kapoor Ahuja and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan. From a stunning smokey eye to a more natural look, she can match every request. customercare@ambikapillai.com; @ambika_pillai DANIEL BAUER A favourite both with celebrities and brides, Bauer uses the…

A AREA at www.farfetch.com ATP Atelier at net-a-porter.com Agent Provocateur www.agentprovocateur.com Alessi www.alessi.com Alexander McQueen at farfetch.com Alice + Olivia at farfetch.com Alighieri at farfetch.com Alvaro www.alvaro.ag Amika www.loveamika.com Anissa Kermiche www.anissakermiche.com Anita Dongre Delhi (011 4103 5862) Mumbai (070 4569 0820) Ara Studio Pune (099 7561 8856) Argento Vivo www.argentovivo.us Asprey www.asprey.com Auraa Trends Delhi (098 1196 7977) Aurus Jewels Ahmedabad (099 0427 5556) Aurélie Bidermann at farfetch.com Aveda at Sephora, Delhi (011 4170 6749) Mumbai (022 4004 5180) Ayeshna Chawla Fine Jewels Delhi (097 1160 6707) B BECCA at Sephora, Delhi (011 4170 6749) Mumbai (022 4004 5180) BIOSSANCE www.biossance.com Baublebar www.baublebar.com Baume et Mercier at Ethos Watches Delhi (087 2502 8894) Mumbai (022 4971 2938) Becca Cosmetics at cultbeauty.co.uk Biotique Delhi (011 4152 7760) Mumbai (022 4970…

The latest in fashion, what to buy and how to wear it, and your ultimate shopping list IN FULL FLIGHT Elevate your bridal outfit with the hottest trend of the season—the feather accent. Choose a lehenga with plumage on the hem, the pallu, or even an off-shoulder neckline for added drama. STATEMENT COLLARS Delicate or chunky, choker necklaces were a favourite with nearly every designer across the board. Accentuate a band of diamonds with a long pendant in the middle, flaunt a large polki set, or combine pearls with precious stones to make an elegant statement.…

SCARLET DREAMS Pigmented with neon accents and finished with glass-like shine, this shade will keep your beauty look from fading against a bold ensemble. LIKE FINE WINE This darker berry shade with blue-red undertones will make a strong statement at your cocktail, irrespective of how you choose to wear it—sheer, creamy, or matte. CANDIED APPLE The classic red pout returns with an unadulterated intensity of colour. Update with the different shades of gorgeous red rubies—you can’t go wrong with fiery to deep-brick hues.…

Dear Bride, ‘Unforgettable’. Remember that song? That’s the dream we dream for you, our bride. A wedding that lasts a lifetime in the hearts and minds of all those who are blessed to witness the day. You are the centre, the very heart of these memories. It is your day. No question about it. Owning it is your right as a bride. Indulge in the most fabulous ensembles, jewels, and accessories. A wedding is ultimately a celebration of love. And love is always inclusive. It encompasses and holds close the joy of others. Your big day is also a huge moment for your parents. Include them in every way. They are your strongest champions and emotional allies. Respect that truth and trust in it. They’re giving their all to make…

Says Khosla: “This 1931 film of the same name starred Greta Garbo, but more than the movie itself, it was the idea of this exotic spy, this dancer, that we loved. Abu [Jani] had a collection of postcards that he inherited from his father and one of them featured Garbo dressed in a glamorous, bejewelled bustier. The film was also set in the period of Art Deco, which has always been a big source of inspiration for us. Our first collection, which launched in 1986 was actually named after Mata Hari.”…

LAST YEAR, THE DESIGNER’S TEAMED UP WITH SABOO FINE JEWELS, A JAIPUR-BASED BRAND FOUNDED IN THE 1930S BY GEMSTONE DEALER CHAND BIHARI SABOO, TO CREATE THEIR OWN LINE OF FINE JEWELLERY. THE DESIGNERS ARE OFTEN INSPIRED BY THE MOTIFS AND TECHNIQUES FOUND IN FASHION, THE INTRICACY OF CHIKANKARI, THE COLOUR OF PURE COTTON AND MUL, SHAPES LIKE THE PAISLEY OR ART DÉCOR MOTIFS. THESE ARE TRANSLATED INTO STATEMENT LAYERED NECKPIECES, WATERFALL EARRINGS, AND CUFFS STUDDED WITH PRECIOUS GEMSTONES LIKE ROSE-CUT DIAMONDS, RUBIES COLLECTED OVER GENERATIONS, AND LUSTROUS KESHI PEARLS. PRÊT-À-PORTER Abu Jani Sandeep Khosla are making ready to wear with a luxurious touch GULABO: The designer’s resortwear line was named after Waheeda Rahman’s character in the iconic Guru Dutt film, Pyaasa. Each collection is built on breezy, wearable silhouettes such…

You can use the right products and get regular trims and spa treatments, but what really determines the health of your hair is how you nourish it from the inside. As you prepare for your wedding, we get you the lowdown on the vitamins and minerals you need for your healthiest hair yet. VITAMIN E This is one of the best nutrients for your scalp. “The antioxidants in it add hydration from the inside out, giving your hair a natural lustre,” says Dr Rohini Shende, a Pune-based dietitian and nutritionist, who recommends starting this supplement 30 days before your VITAMIN C Free radicals in our body can cause our hair to become dry and brittle. Vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant, fights these radicals and helps make your hair strong, and…

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