A designers journey

Marriage a joke?

2010-09-15T10:06:00.000-07:00

Okay, today was a weird day. It started off with me googling my once favorite singer/songwriter Avril Lavigne. Guess what? shes divorced!..

Let me share a little something she got married to Deryk Whibley in 2005, and got divorced in 2009, after a little over 3 years. No reason given for the divorce only hypocritical statements of them being very good friends, and breaking up on a positive note. they knew each other before they were married for a couple of years.

I'm not an innocent kid unaware of the pathetic world around me, but hey! celebrities who are idolized have more play in the society. For whatever reason they split up, it made me feel so sad, the whole idea of marriage is a cluster fuck these days. Especially in the land of dreams! bull shit dreams.....the American dream is to be single, make a joke out of marriage and weddings and all things sacred and not compromise and be immature about everything. I really want to know what theri respective religion has to say about this lifestyle...

I know there are allot of people in world getting divorced and I might be being very harsh on the couple in question, but I truly had faith in her. I just feel bad for all the young girls who looked up to her and the guys who looked up to Deryk. They must've had a hard time getting over it. And i think it's especially difficult for the fans because they don't get the truth, and hence no closure....

It feels so stupid now to read her statements about her wedding when she got married and how Deryk gave up drugs for her, since they were friends he was sober etc. And then how do things not work out?. And I wonder if these celebrities even feel stupid to remarry and have the big huge wedding with the white gowns and flowers etc. do they not know they're too narcissistic for another marriage to survive?

Shoof, I'm sure i sound angry....and well pathetic......but i had to let it out......lets all promise ourselves to have a steady head on our shoulder and not give in to the option of divorce because it's easier than compromising, and is more and more acceptable in the society. To be a proud woman you need to know your talent is to keep a marriage alive and happening both for yourself and your partner....

thoughts? leave them below....

A tiny haul

2010-08-09T10:13:00.000-07:00

Like always I've been super busy, now that my baby girls home life has taken a 360. Anyway, foreseeing how I'd get caught up with everything and in a desperate attempt to make myself happy I stopped by health and glow amidst baby shopping to check out the Maybelline color sensational lipsticks. I came to know they released here on this blog, and couldn't wait to try them out.

I'm not really a lipstick type of person, I own only 2 lipsticks and this ones my new edition:
Maybelline color sensational lipstick in Extatic Coral. I liked the name and the colour seemed like a good experiment.


on top:one coat of the lipstick, bottom:more than 3 coats.

I really like the consistency of these lipsticks they're not drying and strangely after theyre all gone they leave my lips very soft. also the colour was a good choice for me, it doesn't show much on my lips as they are very pigmented naturally, yet they give a very everyday wearable shine. I've made a good coming into the world of lipsticks. The sales lady said the glosses were coming out soon too, If I get a chance to squeeze in some time for another health and glow visit I might pick some out!..

The second product is nothing to ramble about. The Maybelline Colossol Volume express mascara.

I like the vivid packaging. very interesting, I like that the mascara doesn't dry flaky with hours of wear. and one good coat is enough too, it's build able, however I still would prefer define a lash over this one. Maybe I need to spend more time with it. I don't hate it, but don't love it to death either.

I did spot the colorbar booth at health and glow, I'm not familiar with the brand so any specific product suggestions are welcome, as are other shades of Maybelline color sensational lipsticks..Any favs?

Bag Haul

2010-06-12T10:14:00.000-07:00

Yes, I am a blogger guilty of laziness! and no matter how much I try to justify it, it's not fair.

But anyway, I'm back with a post and thats what matters isn't it?.

Now this is what I think about bags. Own one good one and let it die in your arms. Even though I've been a little more than interested in bags these days, I picked up one because my Globus bag well, lets just say is not wearable...However I will be doing some DIY action on it to make it work as a baby bag for me daughter. Who says you can't be stylish carrying baby stuff?!

On that note I will add that I just had my baby, which is why I've been pretty busy, and pregnancy doesn't let you buy allot clothes, shopping itself is a big task when you're carrying a person inside you. Anyway, so i may haul a little once I get time to!......

So here's the bag, I picked it up from Shoppers stop Begumpete, and it's by a brand called Esbeda I myself never had heard of it, but the bags fab!. I've been looking for a bag with studs, and I found the perfect one for me. The colour is very hard to describe, it sometimes looks dirty green and sometimes dirty brown, but it goes with everything Indian and western, which is a major plus. The material is leather, and the quality very good, it better be with a price tag of over 2 grand!.

Here's the picture:

This is my Favorite bag at the moment. And I'm sure it will last real long and I sure will not get bored of it soon.

What bag are you using right now?

Christian Siriano- Having a moment.

2010-04-10T21:20:00.000-07:00

Without a doubt Christian Siriano had stolen my heart from the first episode of Project Runway!. And not only was I totally bedazzled by his personality, the guy has amazingly fresh talent to go with it. One of the most appealing characteristic of him has been his age, it makes you feel anyone as young as him (21 when wining) can do anything!.

Needless to say I used to long for more videos of him on youtube, and watched allot of his interviews. And recently came across a blogpost talking about a new show following up on the busy life of Christian Siriano.

So I took the liberty of searching for the torrent of
Christian Siriano: having a moment' and of course downloaded it just yesterday and having watched only 8min and 2 secs I'm already inspired to get up and start working on a collection and go crazy. Thank you Mr. Fierce!.

I am one of those designers who're almost always having a designers block, and it's project runway and shows like that, that keep me motivated and often give me an inspiration to start designing with. Over the last year after I quit my diploma in FD I've learned allot from just fashion magazines and shows and the like. Having knowledge of just detailing and the elements of fashion can make you understand fashion at a whole different level. I always believed and noticed that my sense of taste was already pretty refined because when it came to fashion I was always surrounded by the fashion weeks of Milan, New York, London, Paris (via mags/TV shows, etc). It makes a great difference in your level of taste when all you see is the best of the best.

Anyway, that being said all I have to do now is to gain some confidence and keep myself motivated to a point where I never fail to please my self and my talent.

So here you go, Christian Siriano just breathed life into my almost dead designer mind....And now I'M having a moment!...........A fierce one at that ;)

Lotus Herbal kajal Vs Shehnaaz Hussain

2010-03-30T13:02:00.000-07:00

I picked up the lotus Herbals kajal from health & glow, city center, Banjara Hills.

Instead of going all crazy writing long paragraphs I will pointer the positives and the negatives:

Positive:

1. Doesn't smudge as much as the Shehnaaz Hussein Shaeyes Kajal. I wouldn't say it's completely non smudgy, but it's much better.

2. The packaging might be a little more fun in terms of colour, for some. It feels quality too. The shaeyes has a rather cheap, and light plastic feel which might bother some.

3. The kajal when seen itself is not shiny and better to carry along even in the sun it wouldn't melt a little and get the oils to the surface. Hence, reducing smudging.

4. The molded cone of the kajal has a longer point for precise application in the inner corner of the eyes, this would also enable the point to last longer.

Negative:

1. There is a very tiny description of the contents, and I don't think it has all the goodness that shaeyes possessed. When applied I didn't feel the soothing cool effect that shaeyes gave.

2. Packaging according to me was not at all practical, the cap is super tiny and transparent. For something that I'd use so often, and is so important, losing the cap would not be fun!.

3. No mirror on the case!. Shaeyes had a very practical mirror which made applying on the go super easy, especially since both these kajals are in the cone shaped lipstick container you need your fingers free to pull down the lower skin for application on the lower lash line.

4. I found the content of the lotus herbals kajal lesser than that of the shaeyes. But I may be mistaken on that because I didn't have the wrapping of the latter to read. Will update when I do find out.

All in all I am not disgusted or saddened by the purchase. But I will however repurchase Shaeyes over Lotus Herbals because even though it smudges I personally like my kajal smudged and super dark. Lotus Herbal I will keep for occasions where I need a more clean eye.

The frustration and the adjustment

2010-03-09T04:14:00.000-08:00

So long time, and like every time I'm going to make many promises. But this time I'm going to make a serious effort to live up to them.

My long going struggle with 'doing something' related to fashion has taken it's toll on me. And I was super inspired by the 5 piece capsule collection of LBDs by Victor and Rolf, and hence, I'm planning to design 5 pieces too, this would be a great start for me without over-thinking, and pressurising myself.

The sad part I feel at the stage that I am at, is the restriction with regard to designing. My course as I have already mentioned was complete bull****, and hence I am incapable of actually drafting and constructing a complicated dress. Actually not even complicated just anything other than than the simple bland!.

It's easy to sketch, but very difficult to make sewers understand what you want. Especially when you yourself are incapable of making it!.

Anyway, the frustration would just increase with more thought. And I now recognize myself as a person who gets very bored and needs things to happen spontaneously without too much delay. And hence, I shall focus on designing the 5 piece collection that can actually be produced with ease. A lesson I've learned, don't crib & work with what you have!

So that is going to be my challenge and I will post up the sketches and the finished garments hopefully on a model and start my career small.

I feel with my zero experience, and first time trial it's best I start small and subscribe to the believe that it will grow as my confidence grows. So that is the plan!

Best of luck to ME!

A minute for Alexander McQueen

2010-02-11T23:38:00.000-08:00

Shockingly early, the extraordinary McQueen dies leaving the fashion world allot to get inspired from.

The over the top designer, never scared to take chances and pulling everyone out of their comfort zone, definitely made history with his fashion career.

Anna Wintour, editor-in-chief of American Vogue: "He brought a uniquely British sense of daring and aesthetic fearlessness to the global stage of fashion. In such a short career, Alexander McQueen’s influence was astonishing – from street style, to music culture and the world’s museums. His passing marks an insurmountable loss."

Indeed the drama created on runways by former Givenchy head designer are something to reckon with. Not only did he make it to the fashion scene, he gave it a twist no one else could. From spray painting the models, to creating shoes with 12cm heels, exaggerating make up and accessories, adding drama of a whole new level. McQueen definitely has all fashion lovers inspired.

Project runway season 7

2010-02-06T19:46:00.000-08:00

Two weeks ago, while I was bored watching T.V I happen to remember project runway. So I very devotedly got up and searched the web for any signs of a new season. And that was it! HA! season 7 had already aired 2 episodes.

How excited was I, you-tubed it, but couldn't find full episodes, watchprojectrunway.com is where I watch the episodes, but thanks to my internet speed, that didn't work.

I now download torrents, which is easy and nothing like revisiting an episode by getting into your D drive!.

So far it's going fine, I still miss the 4th season, it's by far been my favorite and I guess it will always be, the contestants were fabulously talented and entertaining at the same time. I plan to download all season and make my own collection, seeing that the DVD aren't available in India.

I wonder why India hasn't started a project runway for themselves?. Almost the whole world has copied it. Are we out of talent?

What does your creative mind say? should India have it's own project runway?

Models please!

2010-02-04T20:46:00.000-08:00

I don't know how many would support me on this, but I truly believe models should be on the cover of fashion magazines not celebrities.

And I believe so for many reasons, they (celebrities) already get their share of attention and more, however models are the ones in the field of posing and selling fashion. On that note I'd also like to add that celebrities on runway is also not pleasing to me.

Indian fashion scene is developing slowly in many areas, and we are too obsessed with our celebrities, and their lives. This stereotypical want to give someone more importance than they should is appalling.

From the past 3 months all Vogue issues I've gotten have had celebrities on the cover. Okay some might have started as modeling and may even do some now, but the reason to why they're on the cover is not because of that. It's purely based on their acting career. And as any fashion follower who wants to gain knowledge about fashion and fashion people it's important to emphasize on the models who work so hard on it. Without them the industry wouldn't exist.

Celebrities can't pose like models can, they are the true interpreters of the art of posing high fashion, I actually can't wait to open the magazine and have a look at the ad of Louis Vuitton, or Marc Jacobs, or Dior, and indulge in the art of selling a bag, or shoe!. It's marvelous and deserves more attention.

It's actually weird if one would notice magazines that are for women, in general and not particular to fashion have models on their covers, sure they may not be able to afford a celebrity but they are at least helping the modeling industry of India. I feel bad regarding my knowledge of Indian models, I actually can't name one!.

This is just my view, but I crave to see someone other than Deepika Padukone, Katrina Kaif, Karena Kapoor, on the covers of fashion magazines.

What do you think?

The mositurizer and face talk

2010-01-12T00:25:00.000-08:00

I don't really take my skin seriously. And this year I am going to make a deliberate effort to get serious about it. I had gotten a moisturiser a month or so back, and it's the best thing ever. So much so, that I'm not planning to even try another product. I picked it up from Health and Glow at city center. Will definitely be visiting health and glow more often, and check out the various products they stack.

So back to my moisturiser, it's by Neutrogena and is called oil-free moisture for combination skin. I was actually too hesitant to pick up any moisturiser in the past, afraid that it might let me down. But now I've gained confidence in Neutrogena. I loved the description on the box when I first read it, and just had to get it. At least to find out if it lived up to it's promise. And it did. It says it's odorless, but on application it does have an appalling smell, which goes away once blended into the skin. It keeps my T-zone nice and dry and cheeks well moisturised. I apply it after washing my face, which is great because the product seeps right into the skin and works better. I'm over all very happy with it, and it's just one pump you need per application, though it seems very less product it works very well. I'm going to definitely experiment more from the Neutrogena line of products.

My face wash is Himalaya and it works better than the Nivea and Clean & Clear one I was using. It's mild on the face and doesn't leave my skin stretchy. I don't know if that particular one is available here, this one was from Dubai. Thy usually have different names for the same product in different places. Once I'm done with it, will find one here.

My next focus now that my face is off the list, is hair care!. I want to find a product or a routine to soften my hair, I just shampoo and condition very lazily, but it's time i take it more seriously. I was reading the January issue of Vogue India, and there was an interview of Malaika Arora in it, and how she uses allot of home remedies for her hair and face. That truly inspired me to experiment with the natural way to happiness rather than spend insane amounts of money on buying products. That's another thing on my list. Will post the good remedies that worked for me on the blog.

So that's it for now. Will try posting more often.

New year resolutions!?

2010-01-05T02:07:00.000-08:00

I'm not really big on new yr celebrations and resolutions, But I don't mind joining the fun by making some resolutions...It's sort of an opportunity to improve, so why not?

I have successfully come up with some.....being a rather practical person I like to set achievable goals instead of guilt filled crap. So here are a few, and I definitely don't mind making some up as the year goes on...A year is a long time init!

The present list is as follows:

1. Trying to be more feminine. I think no matter how much I try with the saris etc. there is still more that can be done. So more accessories, makeup, feminine clothes and behavior.

2. Religiously follow proper skin care routine. I recently purchased an awesome moisturiser for my skin, I wonder why I was so hesitant to try different products. I took it too lightly. But I'm going to take the moisturizing and skin care scene more seriously. I'm not 16 anymore, skin needs care, especially SPF, I'm also considering under eye cream and will definitely update any jackpot. Will do research on how often I should get a mani-pedi and all those good things. Probably focus more on home remedies rather than chemicals. Also thinking of using perfumes at home and making a deliberate effort in dressing up nice, since I'm (god willing) soon will becoming a mom, have to shove the extra immaturity aside.

3. Studying!, Yes I'm planning to start my distance education in BA (Psychology, Economics and Sociology). And will definitely give more than my 100%. It's been long I've had some hardcore study done. And it's time I take it seriously, can't depend on just a +2, It's just not enough especially when you have the potential. I'm the most excited about this venture this year. Admission procedure is under way.

4. Going to cut down on unnecessary expenditure, especially shopping for clothes. I think I should focus more on saving, however I don't buy anything as soon as I like it, I go home and think about it, and make sure I really need it, otherwise I just chuck it all together. Makes me feel strong. A Product has to really be good enough for me to buy it right away. I'm planning to create a clear idea of what I actually need, as apposed to what I like. organise according to occasions, and events. Not everyone needs 10 party dresses!

5. Try to be more patient and focus on my priorities and not get sidetracked my negative thoughts and focus on working out, and staying positive.

6. Figure out a way to promote my blog, and post more regularly.

7. Since during and after pregnancy you're left with not many clothing choices, I'm going to focus on designing my own clothes and also on starting my own clothing line. I like to juggle activities makes me attain my potential and realize my strengths and weaknesses.

8. I'm also going to organise my earring and other jewelery collection. It's getting all tangled and gross. I seem to forget what all I have, and that to me is a sign of ungratefulness.

That's allot of resolutions, I'll be making more and eliminating some on my way. Hey! I'm only human. Will be trying to improve my fashion skills and increase my fashion knowledge, update myself regularly with the trend reports and shows. I'm in a rather nerdy mood, want to grab every opportunity to gain more this year.

This year has allot of changes in my way, allot of new experiences that I'm more than excited to experience. Hopefully all will go well.

What are your resolutions if any?

An idea and update

2009-12-20T17:39:00.000-08:00

Been away from my lovely blog for many reasons. But I'm going to skip the boring details and jump right onto the point.

First, a little update, I received my Vogue Honors Participation certificate the other day. What a surprise it was. I didn't think they'd be providing participation certificates. Anyway, it made me happy even though I didn't win. Didn't think my collection was a winning one anyway. I liked it but it definitely wasn't my best.

Secondly, I'm pregnant. Yayi! that brings a halt to allot of activities, but I'm going try my best and cont. some sketching every now and then.

Mango is officially open!. Yes in GVK One. Haven't payed a visit yet, but my friend tells it's more than good. I'm familiar with MNG from Dubai. But long time I've been here and some MNG eye candy wont do no harm!. Will put an update when I do visit.

Now onto some future plans. I'm very seriously considering starting a clothing line. It's now an aim in life for me. I was hesitant and not so focused before. But recently I've been feeling, confident. I think I have what the young girls want here. They should get all the pretty dresses and stylish apparel for cheaper than the brands that have entered the market. It's time for me to do my part as an innovative young designer.

So the plan is like this, whilst I'm pregnant, Im going to focus on sketching and the business aspect of it all, get the numbers together and bring things into some practical perspective. And once I have my lovely baby I will tak a tiny break and start focussing on it again. Working from home will be the best option for me with the baby. Maybe make my office upstairs and do research on draping etc.

Yeah, thats the scenario, and I'm happy with the positivity I'm feeling. Just have to get to work!.

Fashion inspiration! Gossip Girl

2009-11-21T05:01:00.000-08:00

A tiny update first: No exam, Yes, I've decided not for me, not interested. Thanks to a little practical thinking.

Now onto the main bit, I've been watching gossip girl like crazy!. Not so much a fan, but mostly for the clothes and fashion!. My!, the styling is amazing, I like it at least, very inspiring.

It's one thing to notice what people wear, but it's a whole different thing to see a character being portrayed through them. And the GG watchers know the variety in the show, from bitchy, to rich, to sophisticated, to British, to dark, to young, to old, the fair, the cute, the short, the petite, the tall, etc etc.

I especially love how whats in trend is so easily made a part of the characters wardrobe. The bags, the jewelry everything is to drool for. And especially since major part of the cast is supposed to be from the upper east side, you get the cream of fashion styling. Yummy!

I think it's a fun way to learn about fashion, and making it effortlessly a part of your own style. And if you're a fashion buff and don't like the story line much, at least the styling of the show will get you hooked onto it like I am ;)

Happy watching everyone.

There may be an exam in the future

2009-11-19T00:19:00.000-08:00

I have been shown an opportunity. I might be writing my exams again. The seem to have a re-exam somewhere in January or December. Date's still unannounced.

I spoke to a friend to get a little perspective on it, and I think I should consider it at a more serious level. I'm almost half way through with my portfolio. And there are no classes to take up my time, I can concentrate on this with ease.

So, not sure yet, still in the thinking process, I will be having to start a couple of projects that I hadn't done. That's going to be something to worry about and also the fact that I haven't touched my books in a while. The main subject that scares me out is garment construction, followed by computers. I hadn't spent enough time getting thorough with corel draw and photoshop, but I guess me friend can help me out on that.

Lets see...will keep updating here....

Vogue Honors competition

2009-11-10T19:16:00.000-08:00

Okay, I'm not sure I mentioned anything about the Vogue Honors 2009 competition. But here's a quick intro. about it.

This is an annual competition, and well this time we had to design a collection of 5 pieces and theme was assigned to us. What was it? Eco-friendly fashion!

Interesting. I know!

At first I was a little confused, but my research helped me get over it. There are allot of designers out there working with organic fabrics and creating beautiful pieces. So anyway, I have my collection ready and will be posting the CD of sketches and the form ina day or two.

Just wanted to share my sketches on me blog. I didn't have any particular inspiration that drove me to designing all these pieces per say, but I definitely was inspired by innovating vests. Even though I'm not 100% satisfied with it, in terms of my potential. But I do stand by my collection. I think it's totally a young girls wardrobe. And I'd wear any of those of pieces only if i could change me body type ;) hehe.

(click on image to view larger)

As you can see, it's a RTW collection. And I've worked with organic cotton. My accessories are made out of recycled wood, and hemp. I loved the bloomer idea. I haven't seen a high waist bloomer. It's fun approach towards bloomers I thought. I have certainly not seen anyone in Hyderabad sporting one of them either. But then again, I haven't seen allot of things here. Even though, now we have so many cool brands, I truly believe young or even older ladies in Hyderabad for that matter have no excuse to be dressed bad anymore. Even if it's for grocery shopping.

Fashion, and style should inspire even the ones who don't subscribe to your creativity. I think what you wear everyday , plays a big role in how you make yourself AND others feel. Fashion is walking, running, jogging, creativity in our lives. We should embrace it in whichever way we can and just go with the flow. But! and there is a but. It should never get to the materialistic way of life. It has to be about creativity, and innovation, not money, brand and status.

Went a little off topic there didn't I? Anyway, that's my update. Thinking of making an earring collection post. I have enough to show. Will think further.

Do give me frank opinions about my collection. Portfolio collection will be up soon too!

seriously Marc Jacobs

2009-11-10T15:13:00.000-08:00

He has been always my all time favorite designer. None can do what he does. The man is walking, talking talent. I can relate to no other designer regardless, of my mood, like i can with Marc Jacobs.

He is what describes fashion to me. Insanely mold able, comfortable, chic, smart, sexy, transformable. Not only is he the designer of his own design house named after him. He designs Parisian fashions most chic label Louis Vuitton.

While his style is new york chic. He transforms his talent when designing for Louis Vuitton.

I love the layering, and NO one does layering like Marc Jacobs and gets away with it in ramp shows.

And who can pull off a masculine body with a skirt?!. Flawless!

Isaac Mizrahi in a reality show?

2009-11-10T12:15:00.000-08:00

I knew Isaac had his own youtube channel, and blah. But which planet was I on when he started to host a reality show? that too with Kelly Rowland (destiny's child member)!!.

Anyway, I got over the shock yesterday itself when i started researching about it. It's called "fashion show" and is aired on Bravotv. The same place where project runway started.

Anyway, yest I started with the first episode on the website. But weirdly enough, I left it to buffer and well it vanished!. And now I'm having a hell problem finding the link!. Arrghhh...

But I liked it, it's more hardcore than project runway, but it's a breath of fresh air. And more variety in the fashion reality world!

I'm on a mission to find the full episode online again.....best of luck to me....

any new surprises at your end?

2 down one more to go!

2009-10-29T06:38:00.000-07:00

I am still in a fit with regard to my fabrics. Have asked a friend fro advice. But I really can't make out what the fabric I want is called! it's embarrassing I know, we haven't been educated about various fabrics as such. It's very difficult to search for something when you don't know what it's called, or even be able to describe it. Here the people aren't familiar with the fabric terminology.

But I have seen this fabric, in a gown or Versace worn by Selma Blair. It has this liquid flow. I think it's a blend of chiffon, but it doesn't have any texture. Not sure if it's silk charmeuse, it has very less shine according to my knowledge to be a satin and silk blend.

If you know please tell me.

2009-10-25T06:44:00.000-07:00

I as promised am working on my portfolio, but very slow, I think i need to make a planner so that I'm more focused. It's getting a little too much now.

I did get my chiffon and gave it for dyeing. Will be getting it tomorrow most probably. I was also thinking of adding a few more pieces to the collection, some party dresses, shorter in length. My present designs are all floor length gowns. I don't know. The way I'm going I just might not be completing what I have in hand.

Meeting with me friend tomorrow and crashing the mall. Will stop by Himalaya book world as well and pick up some stationery I need. I love stationery!

Yeah, organise organise organise is my motto right now. I think that's what's making it all so slow no plan nothing!. Not going to continue like this. Tomorrow the week starts and so will some hardcore work!

Back to the portfolio

2009-10-22T05:48:00.000-07:00

It's been seriously long since I've even thought about my portfolio. And well, my laziness is no longer going to have the best of me. I am officially turning towards my unfinished work and completing it. I'm giving myself time till the 17th of next month to have it all completed, filled, and pretty!

I have still allot of things to do, getting the fabrics and having the textures made is right at the top. On the other side, I have yet to make the flats, and complete the last few pencil sketches. Almost all of my computer work is done, so no tension about that. Just have to make some minor changes and take the print outs.

I'm going to get back to my wake up at 5 am and not sleep till night routine. Working out, and eating well, and keeping healthy are my goals.

Today was the first day I didn't have anything to do and I already feel useless. Don't want it to carry on anymore. Have to get myself motivated and inspired. Will not be able to live with the portfolio incomplete!.

Hopefully this will make my portfolio updates more consistent.

Shopping!

2009-10-20T05:54:00.000-07:00

Oh a much needed shopping break! totally unplanned and yes I am guilty, but who cares?! I know I don't!.

Stopped by Splash at Begumpet and picked up a leopard print dress and ear rings (my present fascination) here are the pics:

The smocked hem of the dress can be opened!. Yes, it has tie ups underneath which when you untie the dress grows around 2-3 inches in length and falls staight!. Isn't that amazing?

on to the earrings;

The new winter collection at Splash was amazing, there were allot of pieces worth owning. Shrugs, jackets etc all preparing you for a fashionable winter. A good colour story as well. I noticed sequin work on t-shirts and mini dresses. Pleated skirts, black and red checkered pants allot of innovative designs.
A whole new collection of bags as well, I didn't pay much attention to them though, Was too excited about the clothes & the jewelery.

Oh I loved the whole experience, it's fun to get out after a long time, when collections change. Will make that a routine now. Overall an okay day, the best part was the shopping.

In love with: Gadgets!

2009-10-19T07:20:00.000-07:00

Been watching The Rachel Zoe project and can't help but get all crazy, all the lap top usage, blackberrying, gadgets everywhere!!!

I've been having the same phone (Nokia N76) for 2 yrs now, and i refuse to buy another one for 2 reasons:
1) No good flip phone in the market
2) I want it to die in front of me!. I had lost the same phone, it was a gift for me birthday from me hubby, but then he got the same one again. I love it. And the guilt makes it's death the only reason to purchase a new one.

Last year I was having another cell phone in mind, Sony Ericsson X-peria X1 but then I passed on it for the second reason mentioned above. But I'm pretty sure my phones going to die soon. But I love it so much and to date I keep finding new options in it!. It's like a whole new story after you find a hidden gem in your phone. My latest discovery was the 'copy paste' option!

Anyway, it's been my fantasy to own a white laptop, which I would customize myself. But i prefer computers over laptops ANY DAY. I find them more royal. I don't like how your lifestyle and posture completely changes once you use a lappy. And if you ARE going to sit on a table and use it then might as well have a PC!. That's my logic.
I am on a search for a good cell phone, want to be ready when my present one gives up on me. Life without them has become pretty difficult. Even though I don't regard myself as a gizmo person, I'm getting into it now thanks to endless usage I've been viewing for the last 2 days!

Whats inspiring me now 1

2009-10-18T04:07:00.000-07:00

This will be posts talking about whats inspiring me. As a designer or anyone from the creative field constant inspiration is required to move forward and be productive.

Anyway, right now I'm thoroughly inspired by the Rachel Zoe Project.

What inspires me about this sitcom?

EVERYTHING!, the clothes the taste level of Rachel Zoe and the group. I especially love the attitude and personality of Taylor Jacobson, love her sense of style it's so effortlessly chic.

I've been hooked on to the second season since yesterday, and enjoying every drop of it. I also have her book 'style A to Zoe' but didn't find it as promising as the title did. It was too personal to her to be of any use actually. Anyway, don't regret having it, the illustration and designer advices were good.

So this is whats inspiring me to run around fashionably and start my own business and run the everyday errands. Anything particular inspiring you?

This gown is a sin...

2009-10-17T12:41:00.000-07:00

I have never in my life felt the way I'm still feeling from the past 30mins about a dress. And I am hell late on this, but not shy to admit.

This is what I'm talking about: It's the Atelier Versace Fall '08 gown worn by Anne Hathaway.

More detailed shots:

Feel free to drool. Anne did justice to this gown. What a master piece it is!.....

COWE Trade carnival

2009-10-15T07:19:00.000-07:00

The three day COWE trade carnival '09 came to an end on Monday( 12Th October). I happened to visit on the last day. And I'm more than glad that I did.

COWE is a breakaway of ALEAP, they also focus on women entrepreneurship. Me and me aunt paid a visit to this exhibition, to do a little survey for ourselves. I was particularly keen on finding out their quality standard. Since, I haven't ever visited any of the ALEAP exhibitions, I could not compare, but according to my aunt they (cowe) are better.

I myself was pretty happy with what I found out. The price range of the products varied from 3 digits to 4 and 5 in some cases. Here's a list of products I can recollect:
-apparel stitched and unstiched, western and Indian. men, women and kids
-candles, Dias, handmade paper products, random toys, etc
-carpets and furnishings -franchise promotions -business software's, etc
-glass products
-jewelery
-banks promoting entrepreneurial schemes -promotional stalls (distributing pamphlets and gift coupons) hair salons clothing brands school promotions etc

Basically if you're looking for anything a visit would be helpful.
I have my own conclusions on the quality, especially of the western wear but it was selling & that was my aim. To find out what the public is actually willing to purchase. As shocked as I was at their taste, I was glad.

Anyway, We had a chat with a COWE representative there. She was very helpful, and because we were lucky enough to be the only ones enquiring at that time she wasn't in a hurry.

COWE have an entrepreneurship development program (EDP). They conduct this program every alternate month on a particular business. This helps the entrepreneur know everything there is to know before entering the field and setting up his own, apart from understanding the dynamics of being an entrepreneur. Other than that they also, have exhibitions like this all over India and also internationally.

COWE also helps it's members to get their products ISO marked for international sale.
An update on that will be done as soon as I pay them a visit.

That is the brief on COWE, I'm interested in these organizations it's amazing how many people are unaware of their existence!

I crave a good shopping experience

2009-10-15T06:34:00.000-07:00

Here's a thing about me....I don't care where I go for shopping provided the shopping experience is worth my time.

I am not a brand addict, I don't mind going to random exhibitions and picking up things. All I ask for is a good experience. Shopping is one of those things I don't like to take chances of my mood with.

I'm not an impulsive shopper, I don't like to add to my wardrobe anything my body, my mind and my bank account are not ready for. Not that I'm a fashion saint! I have committed my set of mistakes but I've grown from them. I believe in keeping staple pieces and purchasing something that would directly fit into my wardrobe and be an asset to it. And every once in a while I do take the privilege of getting something only to experiment with. Can't always stick to the same old.

Sometimes purchasing something you rather would not, could be a life changing decision
As women our bodies change, you'll never be the same proportions your whole life. It's a fact you have to accept and the sooner you do that the less likely you are to make fashion blunders.

That was a tip! coming back to the experience, the other day me and me aunt went for an exhibition on necklace road, at peoples plaza. It was held by COWE , and is known as the trade carnival!. It was very impressive, when I think of exhibitions I only think of cool jewelery, not clothes. I don't know why I feel exhibitions never do any justice to good clothing. Anyway, overall it was a good experience, and I also had a chat with a COWE representative there. Just to get a lowdown on their corporation. I will do a more detailed report on this exhibition and COWE in the next post.

The point of realization with this trip was that I just can't pick anything up from a shop, or mall, or exhibition that is not providing me with a good quality experience. By quality I refer to; -decent sales people who are there when you need them but not hovering on your neck,
-an attractive display, for me creativity to the eye is very important,
-no damaged good please!,
-and no and by that I mean NO cheating or deceiving,
-Smile!!!? I hate people who don't smile!.

I am the only one who has this issue? I can only wonder, do let me know what your shopping experiences have made you.

ALEAP

2009-10-07T11:32:00.000-07:00

Today was one of those days......the ones that leave you tired, exhausted because of excessive use of brain....

I went to ALEAP Association of ladies entrepreneurs of Andhra Pradesh. The name describes it pretty well. Since, I've been wasting way too much time at home and not having any particular thing in mind. I thought why not start doing something.

My aunt also my mom-in-law had a workshop if you may, upstairs. Exploiting it would be a good way to get some cash in, to be able to start producing my collection. She mentioned ALEAP and hence this trip.

My first opinion from this meeting. Not bad, motivating if nothing else. I got myself a membership form and will be visiting them shortly and also make this visit more productive. Tomorrow will the day I will make a business plan and examine the pros and cons etc.

I'm in the mode now!. Main aim being to get orders for tailoring and embroidery. But again all that will be finalized tomorrow.

Learned allot of lessons, some from my own mistakes and some from others'. In the end of the day this is what matters to grow through everything that comes your. It's highly important for anyone who believes in themselves to be very stern in what they want. The ability to convince someone, and subscribe to your idea is of the utmost importance. Time IS money!!!!!

Being polite and yet making a point is the most difficult thing, especially when dealing with family, or friends. Have to be very diplomatic and wise while making your point.

And the biggest thing of all is to not make excuses. Which is a struggle for everyone. Taking responsibility for your actions and learning from mistakes is the only way to move further in anything you do.

PLAN PLAN PLAN!!!....Don't take your sorry ass anywhere without a plan, you don't want to come off as stupid when you're not. Be prepared for anything, have an answer to every single question that may come up.

Yeah, that's my advice from experience. I pray for strength from my creator and to be able to make sound decisions....

The Mall I'm excited about!

2009-10-06T19:21:00.000-07:00

I am a little late on a review, but I'm thinking of broadening my blog scope and adding more than just blah portfolio updates as mentioned in my confession post.

Cutting the intro. I'm going to dive right into the excitement!. This is what I'm talking about:
GVK One. The website describes this mall as; 'sure shot one-stop destination for all'

What I love about GVK is the brands that are available. Allot of them I missed from Dubai. Hyderabad really needed this mall to change the shopping experience that lacked in other malls.

The fact that the brands are more expensive makes the crowd a little bit more polished. The walking space is good and allot of first openings of brands is a delight. For example; the first M.A.C store, first ALDO, first Promod etc.

The prices do seem a little out of control on some of the items and I do personally think sales are not being made as per plan. Yes, people have money and are getting more fashion conscious, yet it's hard to ignore hardly anyone walks out with shopping bags!.

I myself go there to get an update on their collections more than anything. Drool over the Aldo shoes and swift through racks at others. But there is choice no doubt. Maybe some hardcore sale would sell off the clothes.

Some of the brands I really like are:
Promod, Aldo, Sisley, catwalk, Triumph etc.
They also have a food court with outlets of subway, KFC, Cookie man etc. just to name a few.

The highlight however, would also be the INOX cinema. It's definitely some movie watching experience.

Although I must admit too frequent visits to this mall could make you lose interest. Especially if you're not really purchasing anything.

All in all it's a must visit for every fashion savvy individual.

The New portfolio

2009-10-06T19:03:00.000-07:00

So like I mentioned before I have been working on a new portfolio.

Which is going very slow. got side tracked with allot of things, and will recover from that soon. It's not good to be stuck on one project for so long.

First things first, I am not following the process nor the format that my institute was providing. Found it a little too impractical for my taste. And all the internet aided research made me realize there is no particular format. Just include what you think is important. And most of all make sure the portfolio speaks for it self, I think this one rule will get you more focused and provide clarity to the situation.

Coming back, the theme picked was Grecian drapery. And I did so because i felt passionate about it, and realized it's in this
years trend too (what could be better)

The mood board hence is a collage of pictures of various Grecian statues, etc. However my colours are not coming from the mood board. I'm doing an evening wear collection of 12 pieces.
Will do a separate post on the colour story, and other garment details.

That is a mini introduction to the new portfolio.

Another activity I'm working on is a competition held by Vogue magazine. It's called Vogue Honors. The theme is Eco-friendly fashion, it has to be a 5 piece collection of any inspiration. It has to be styled with accessories and everything. All of which has to be submitted in a CD to the Vogue Honors head office in Bombay, India.

I don't have an inspiration as such, I just sketched what ever came to my mind, so it consists of vests, maybe that's my inspiration?!. The colour scheme is navy blue and lilac. I will post the sketches to that soon. And give more details to everything.

A confession!

2009-10-06T18:55:00.000-07:00

Yes!...its been months....and I'm embarrassed beyond words....

But keeping all that aside I'm going to very fashionable make a quick update....have ALLOT of postings to (covering my guilt)....

So firstly, I happen to quit my course for health reasons. And no regrets, I didn't sit for the exams and nor did I complete my portfolio.....

Anyway, after a few months, just recently I picked up my designer skills and made a point to start all over again with the portfolio. My previous posts show how content I was with what I was doing....

So here's whats coming up:
-A lowdown on my new portfolio
-Sharing of any latest buys (very inspired by fashion blogs)
-Reviewing fashion shows with that little knowledge that I possess.
-A regular update on everything fashion and everything stylish.

Yeah, I hope that covers the guilt. Here's a blog I regularly follow:
www.lollipop26writes.blogspot.com

I do intend to pick on more and be more consistent in my blog visiting.

I promise more is coming!

Portfolio Session 8. Texture Development.

2009-04-28T06:55:00.000-07:00

So this class we were focusing on texture development. Basically we had to chose any two of our prints and textures to develop further. The choice was ours. so it could be 2 prints , or 2 textures or one each.

I don't have any ready so blah!.

Anyway, there were the different areas in which we could develop our textures:

1. Textile Art: Tie and dye, batik, silk painting, any technique of fabric painting,stencil painting, block printing etc.

2. Garment construction: Tucks, pleats, ruffles, shirring, smocking. piping, top stitch, contrast piping, overlock, patch work, quilting, applique, crochet etc.

3.Embroidery and embellishment: combination of different types of stitches,use of satin ribbons, beads, sequins, threads, pipes, laces and any hand or machine embroidery.

4. Check the look boards, to get the direction of the development field.

5.Combine the techniques with balance in shape , colours, and textures.

That was it. And next class we're going to be doing basic styling. I am so lagging behind with my work it's shame full.

Rambling and Random update 4

2009-04-21T03:00:00.000-07:00

Designing is hell difficult. And I'm facing that ego hurt right now. The course is almost over and I don't really have allot of confidence in myself. Sometimes I wish some proper designer could come and look at my work so far and probably speak to me and see my sketches or conduct some tiny test and tell me that I have it in me.

Last night I sat trying to sketch my avant-garde looks and I have never been so confused in my life. I couldn't believe the difficulty I was facing. And I'm starting o believe I'm playing too much of a victim with my institute. Which is NOT healthy. I don't exactly know what the problem is but whatever it is, it's taking a toll on me.

My laziness is only increasing by the day. Which is so not healthy for me. I have to be more focused. I think my main problem is that I haven't really designed anything from head to toe. And this is not just anything I'm preparing for it's going to be my portfolio. I just need some reassurance. I feel like a fashion baby. I need some hardcore nurturing. And like I said, allot of it has to be blamed on my laziness. When you have the stress of not having completed previous work you just can't perform the present. I need to get more serious.

Maybe I'm thinking too much, and taking too much stress, but I know i have more to prove than anyone else and hence i have to work and produce something that would be totally jaw- dropping. I know I'm not the only one who's doing this portfolio the whole of my class is too. Just have to keep focused and be my own strength.

Portfolio Session 7. Fabric selection.

2009-04-21T02:51:00.000-07:00

I can't believe we've reached one of the last few things of our portfolio. So last class was about Fabric selection.

This was strangely simple!. All we had to do was look into our look boards and note down the fabrics we saw. After which we edited the fabrics that didn't exactly go with our theme or garments. We had to narrow down the list to 3 but we could maximum 5 fabrics.

So now for homework we have to buy 1/4th meter of our fabrics. And have them dyed if not available in our main colours.

Also we have to develop a construction technique on them. The construction technique has to be original. We were asked to develop them by mixing two different details.

So yeah, I have already allot of my work pending, starting from textures to prints to everything!. I don't what I'm going to do!.....

Portfolio Session 6. Prints

2009-04-18T02:34:00.000-07:00

Yes the day had come to chose the prints. Even though I didn't think we'd be doing it the way we did but whatever!.

So this is how it works:

Step one: Look in the mood board carefully and pick out motifs for making prints.
Step two: combine two or more motifs to make one design.
Step three: Select a repeat for each print.

Motifs and final prints could be made for borders, or any other strategic places. We were asked to use motifs that weren't already used for textures, (which was very difficult). We could enlarge or reduce any of the motifs to play with them.

In total we had to create two prints. Again colours choice as suggested was to be from the main colours.

I did come up with one in the class. Got the whole logic of it. I thought we would have to make prints that would be reminiscent of our theme, rather than pictures from the mood board. But anyway I'm planning to do one my way. I don't like it when themes are used in textures and prints in a very literal manner. There has to depth in what you make rather than copy pasting.

Next class is on Monday. We'll be picking fabrics. I can't believe how fast we're going. And like I mentioned in my rambling post I will be focusing more on my thoughts and going in my own direction.

How do you come p with prints inspired for your collections or designs?

Rambling and Random update 3

2009-04-17T03:42:00.000-07:00

Okay....I have been under a bit stress regarding the portfolio insanity. Other things too but this is the highlight.

I didn't get selected for the backstage help for Calantha. It took me allot of frustration, and anger to finally get over it. And by the way things are going with each session I'm truly going crazy.

Somewhere down the line I feel my ideas are getting crushed because of confusion from my teachers side. I don't think she understands my theme!. So anyway, I'm making a total change now. A total adjustment. I'm not going to give a damn about her suggestions, I need to take a bigger stand here, I'm not another brick in the wall. And i refuse to go in that direction.

My avant garde looks are not going to be wearable but they WILL represent ME. I can take the risk and have the creativity to go in that direction then why should I just fart away like every other student at Hamstech has?!

I know i need to go maybe a little out of line to protect my inspiration and designs but so what? they are MY designs and MY portfolio in the end of the day init! I refuse to have anyone tone down my imagination and creativity just because they don't have the taste or the heart for something different and bigger.

My theme is beautiful, it's a thought it's a feeling and not an Object!. It's a fabulous collection that I have in mind.

Hence, I've decided that from now on I will not take into consideration 1% of what is suggested by people without taste. I know what I want, and I know what I'm trying to project through my clothes. I can't afford to take this unnecessary stress. A designer should always be given space, if you don't understand his/her inspiration then don't try to give advices.

I don't have people who are exposed to what I am, hence, there is no understanding, and I'm not a puppet to dumb down my talent. I have a brain, a mouth and i will use it efficiently to put my point across. This is one of the main lessons I've learned in this portfolio session.

If people don't understand my design aesthetic I'm not wrong, I might just be around the wrong people or place.

So here is a shout out to every designer 'who's struggling with random peoples comments and suggestions, Do what YOU have to DO. Deliver and don't take crap from no one!.

Portfolio Session 5. Textures

2009-04-13T04:45:00.000-07:00

Today we tried creating textures.

It was hell confusing I must admit!. But anyway i got to it by the end of the class.

So here's how it all went down:

Step one: Note down textures found in the mood board
step two: Note down textures found in the look board
Step three: Find textures from both lists that go well together
Step four: Create them on paper using anything except fabric and edible material.
Step five:Decide on a repeat for the texture (cross, straight, alternate, all over etc.)
Step six: mount the materials on a 6"/6" paper. The background has to be one of the main colours. And also the textures. Secondary colours could be used but we were asked to focus more on the main colours.

Sounds simple but that's it!. I didn't really understand the whole texture scene till i went up to ma'am with whatever I had created and she explained. But now as homework we have to the practical bit. We only did till step five in class. Have to submit this on Friday.

Next class we're going to develop prints. I'm excited to see what creativity I have in that field was really taking those classes lightly.

I want to know about other methods to come up with textures, any suggestions?

Rambling and Random update 2

2009-04-10T06:52:00.000-07:00

Calantha 2009 is on the 23rd of April in Marriott and I have successfully gotten my application form to help backstage. We had 3 categories to go for, backstage help, exhibition coordinators and Guest relations.Tomorrow we're having our portfolio class, plus I'm going to submit the form and hope I get selected.

I've decided on the name for my collection 'Higher.Bigger.Stronger'. I wrote the 15 line description as well and showed it to ma'am and well she loved it! Really happy about that. She said I better take part for the show next year, for which preparations would start in July.

I'm not sure if I'm going to take part, don't think I'm going to clear my exams! ;( I'm totally in the dark in allot of subjects. The exams are going to be in the end of June and well the wedding season is going to start here, so i doubt I'm going to get allot of time to study. I'm keeping my fingers crossed. Will have to start getting more serious.

Portfolio Session 4. Chosing the colors

2009-04-10T06:27:00.000-07:00

Today we chose the colors for our collection.

I will elaborate on the process in steps for easy understanding.

Make a list of the colors that came to your mind when deciding on the theme.
Make a list of the most prominent colors in the mood board
Use the forecasting to see if those colors exist and accordingly select 3 main colors that would be of the same shade as that in the mood board.
Do the same for the secondary colors too. However these colors will be the ones that are less seen on the mood board.
Again the colors have to match the mood board exactly.
After selecting the colors paint a swatch of them on a strip of paper to see if they well together if not then change the tone of a color (to match either another shade of the same color on the mood board or the forecasting).

That was easy wasn't it! the main difficulty was making the exact shade. Blending different colors to achieve the one we want. But it was good fun.

As homework we were asked to paint each of those colors on a 6"/6" chart/ivory sheet. This will go in the portfolio.

We are going to do textures next class! me excited for that!....

what have been your collection colors? what method did you use?

Rambling and random update 1

2009-04-08T22:56:00.001-07:00

Hmm, so far so good. I have to mention anything that has to do with this course has been very time taking. All the homework plus submissions. Sometimes you end up losing confidence in yourself, sometimes you question your talent, sometimes you just get mad at the faculty.

Inspiration is key for any designer or anyone who's in the creative field for that matter, and i personally suggest everyone to always have a couple of ares from which they would at anytime get inspired.

I follow project runway and it always inspires me. Reading magazines helps, or watching other shows related to fashion or anything creative etc. Sometimes what helps is a BIG break!.

Submission dates should never come in way of best presentation of creativity. As a designer you should always give your 100%.

Now, coming to how much I've progressed! I started with my look board yesterday. Did all the online research getting the latest of the looks I'm going for. And then edited the pictures and saved them into my pen drive for printouts. Which I plan to take today while coming back home from my friends birthday treat!. Our homework till the next class was to get the latest color forecast, because we're going to move forward in choosing the colors for our collection.
So i got that too. And its all ready for print outs. I'm excited as we proceed further with the portfolio.

Even though when i think about my collection and the avant garde designs I'm planning to go for I find a need to refer to the mood board more often so that i don't go off line. And also not add too much details. 'Edit Edit Edit' that's whats on my mind.

That's the update so far, I'm thinking of naming my collection "Higher. Bigger. Stronger" what do you think? any suggestions?

Portfolio Session 3. Creating the Look Board

2009-04-06T09:43:00.000-07:00

This is something similar to that of a mood board. Only here the main focus is the styling.

We selected pictures from magazines that best described what we have in mind for achieving.

Basically there are 3 categories or 3 different boards under the look board itself:
1. Style Board- here images from designer collections were selected to put onto an A3 size sheet.

2. Texture and detailing board- Images of texture or prints or construction techniques that inspire us and are related to our mood board are picked. A collage of them is made also on an A3 size sheet. This particular texture and print board helps us in creating our own innovative textures.

3. Accessories board- As the name suggests this would include the kind of accessories we're going for.

Mines is still not ready...Will try to upload the picture soon...

This style board can be of many pages. It's just a reminder and an inspiration board that's aimed at keeping out thoughts in focus and coming up with innovative ideas.

Porfolio Session 2. Creating the mood board

2009-04-06T09:10:00.000-07:00

After collecting pictures that went best with our themes. We had to take print outs of them on glossy sheets, like that of the magazines. Basically to give the mood board a quality feel.

Mood board is what sets the mood of the theme, for us and for anyone who's going to view our designs. Textures, construction details and colors to a large extent have to taken from out mood board. This would be our go to place for inspiration and ideas.

Some of the themes my friends selected were; rain forests, marbles, underwater plants, ballet, paper, rough diamonds, maternity wear, etc.

Mine is looking down. Looking down from a height, the feeling of confidence hence felt, and the appearance of all bigger objects as small. This is my inspiration for the collection. I haven't decided on how many pieces I'm going to be making but what i do know is I'm going to do an avant-garde collection and each design will be paired with a tones-down RTW garment which would be in Hijab. Which is my design aesthetic.

So anyway getting back to the mood board, we selected various pictures and made a collage of them on an A3 size ivory sheet.

The first most important step of our portfolio was hence created. If you have your mood boards ready and want to share them leave links to them!....

Portfolio Session1. thought process/theme slection

2009-04-06T08:21:00.000-07:00

The very exciting first day of portfolio goodness!....The total marks for which are 100.

We were given the procedure and the contents of our portfolio and also decided on our respective themes.

the contents/procedure were as follows:

1. Introduction- Thought Process.
2. Mood board
3. Look board (not to be included in the final portfolio)
4. Main (3) and Secondary (5) colors.
5. Paper textures (2)
6. Paper prints (2)
7. Garment construction technique (1)
8. Fabric selection and developments (2)
9. Styling (30 pencil sketches)
10. Rendering of 10 best sketches
11. Flats
12. Complete mounting, including scanning of sketches in Photoshop and taking print outs of them.

We are also to give a 15 line write up on our inspiration and the whole story of the collection.
Acknowledgment would also have to be added.

The minimum number of pieces in the collection are to be 8 and maximum 12. This portfolio will be checked by the Jury which would include some Hamstech faculty members, the director, and also Neeta Lulla. It's only after the jury approves the collection that one can take part in the fashion show Calantha!.

Deciding the Theme - We were asked to make lists under various heads to give a clearer view of what we want as designers to achieve.

Some of the categories were 'what you always wanted to design', 'Any hobby other than painting' and 'various themes that interest us'. Accordingly we made a list and ma'am went through them and helped us pick the one best for our personality and potential. After which we took the shortlisted themes and gave a brief idea on the fabrics, colors, prints and outfits that we were inspired to design. Ma'am then made the final approval and we had our theme/inspiration decided.....

Have you selected any interesting theme you want to share? Anything you'd love to design?

An intro.....

2009-04-05T18:50:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone!

I'm a student of fashion design and will blog through my journey of creating my portfolio and also record my journey into the fashion world.

I am doing a diploma in fashion design at Hamstech Institute of Fashion and Interior Design. This is in Hyderabad, India. The course duration is of one year where in we're exposed to various fields of the fashion world.

The highlight of the course is the opportunity to showcase your collection after the end of the course. The name of the show is Calantha. Which is closely supervised by the faculty and is under the mentorship of Neeta Lulla.

I started my course in August 2008, and will end in June 2009. And if i do opt to participate for Calantha my show would be in April or May 2010. Haven't decided on that though.

Basically I'm going to walk you through the making of my portfolio. The whole procedure. I tried searching online for something of the like but it vain. I think I'm in this field to stay and hence, would be pretty wise for me to share my experiences and also have a record of them for myself.....

I hope you enjoy my experience.....and is a mode of learning for everyone who's interested in Fashion.