pastels galore @ elie saab couture, spring 2012

source: style.com

Chanel's Indian-inspired fashion show in Paris

a lavish fashion show, inspired by india, complete with exotic jewelry, fabrics, and silhouettes. absolutely stunning! check out more pictures from this amazing fashion show at style.com.

source: dailymail.co.uk

gowns galore

i've been enjoying the summer months to the fullest, and i hope you have been too! that said, i have no real updates for today, except for posting these beautiful gowns by elie saab and marchesa. aren't they exquisite? i don't expect much less from these two designer labels, anyway.

sources: this is glamorous, a glamorous little side project

emeralds

looks like emeralds (or costume emeralds in this case) are here to stay -- from angelina's memorable oscar appearance in a black gown and huge green knockers, to this blinged-out set on model bianca balti, emeralds are definitely show-stopping jewels.

this photo of balti is from the 2011 cannes film festival happening right now. can't wait to see more pictures from the festival. and don't think i forgot about the met gala that just recently happened! i'll post favorites from that event shortly as well. apologies for the lack of updating!


*for a great deal on the real deal of emeralds (and diamond jewelry) contact élan diamond importers. they ship internationally! and because they own their entire inventory, you will pay a fraction of the normal retail prices you'd find elsewhere. they have a huuuuge collection of beautiful pieces. the website is under works, but you can find all the information you need on their facebook page: www.facebook.com/elandiamondimporters


source: fab sugar

sabyasachi couture 2010

just now getting a look at all the images from the 2010 sabyasachi couture show, and all i have to say is "wow." besides the amazing mix of patterns and prints on exquisite fabrics, take a look at all that layering...especially in the 2nd image. for starters, you've got a long kurta (tunic) with floral designs and paisley-looking motifs combined together. then, long, patterned net sleeves give it some air and freshness, while a small heavily embroidered vest gives the look a fun vibe. not to mention, i think i see some hints of velvet on the bottom border of the kurta, as well. and we're only at the top portion of the entire outfit so far. sabyasachi has placed this kurta with a lightly patterned full a-line skirt, printed churidar (leggings) beneath, and a long chunni (scarf) beautifully draped on one shoulder.

there are so many elements to this one outfit, but somehow they all go together with such ease and beauty. oh, and check out those very much on-trend platform oxford booties...quite the unexpected with an outfit like this!

i have always loved sabyasachi, but this collection was brilliant. it might not translate as well in real life, but it just shows how well of a mix-master, genius designer he is. the whole look -- in its earthy colors, absence of bling, and even zero makeup, still manages to look far more royal than any other crystallized in-your-face outfit normally seen and expected from indian designers. looking forward to seeing these pieces in some great editorials. (aishwarya rai is already featured one such editorial, by HiBlitz magazine. check the pictures on high heel confidential.)

source: vogue.in 

kaftans

can't beat the easy flowing glamour of a kaftan...if you're looking for effortless style, this is it.sources: mario sierra, wedding inspirasi, couture carrie, little augury

running in the other direction

in times like these...one can't help but be drawn towards the opulent & luxurious feel of these exquisite dresses from seasons past...

source: all images via style.com

ines di santo

this beautifully styled ad campaign by the team of ines di santo, haute couture bridal designer, features one of the most breathtaking wedding gowns i’ve seen. within the pages of the latest grace ormonde wedding style magazine, which has swoon-worthy editorials ranging from lavish reception table designs to racy lingerie fashions, this gown is a part of ines di santo’s 2008 bridal collection. the collection is classic, elegant, and traditional, with a very fashionable and fun twist — perfect for today’s modern bride.

source: ines di santo website