Catch the breath-taking look of Kareena Kapoor at grand finale of Lakme Fashion Week’14!

With all expected glamour and innovative collection by well-known designers around the country, Lakme Fashion Week Winter/Festive 2014 which took place at Palladium Hotel, Mumbai had its grand finale recently that too in presence of none other than queen of million hearts- Kareena Kapoor Khan. Who walked the ramp as the showstopper for designer Manish Malhotra on the final day.

She looked mesmerizing in a metallic purple lehenga with grey shades and a complete diamond and silver studded open jacket teamed with a nettet chunni. On the name of jewellery, all she donned was a cocktail ring which was as bold as Kareena on the stage. Indeed Manish’s collection raised the glamour quotient of every attire with bling and glitters. He exhibited bridal collection that was a way to higher in fashion and understated colors were used to make a different approach. The bridal wears were a blend of long gowns, skirts, saris, lehenga cholis with heavy diamond studded sequence and embroidery work.

Expressing his idea behind the collection and why he picked Kareena for the special show, Manish said, “It’s been a long journey. She is my sister. She has been the coolest bride I have ever dressed so Lakme can’t have a better show stopper than Kareena.” For her outfit he added, “I have used two versions of grey. I want this grey to be popular this winter.” Other side Kareena also did not miss the chance to praise Manish’s work and averred, “I wear what I feel comfortable in. I think Manish is a gift to the film industry and I feel comfortable in all his outfits.”

Manish was also asked about what should a bride-to-be wear this bridal season to which he said, “Firstly, she should allow herself to experiment — while the wedding day is usually traditional, the other functions allow her to set her rules. Instead of the traditional reds and pinks, go for colours like wine, burgundy, silver and even grey (that I have given to Kareena here). The fabrics I’ve worked with are specially-treated textured silks, velvets, flowy chiffons and soft nets. Another big trend is that of a gown sari — a perfect choice for a cocktail.”

Well girls if you are going to get married or going to attend your BFF’s wedding than here are few tips by expert Cory Walia for you. On being quizzed by sources about the upcoming trends to watch out for this bridal season, he explained- “Inspired by international runways, the hot trend of gloss with well-hydrated dewy skin and hi-shine makeup is all set for a traditional interpretation. I urge brides to go for glossy finished lips in shades of reds and plums and jewel-toned lined eyes. Also, don’t forget the nails — instead of a normal nail colour, opt for gel based high gloss nail colour that perfectly complements your manicures.”

Wear cufflinks at any formal to casual gathering for a classic look!

Gone are those days when men hardly gave attention to their formal looks. A formal pant and shirt with a nice pair of polished shoes were all in their list when they move for a professional call. However, there have been some noticeable changes seen in their way of dressing and styling. Accessories have taken a nice place in their wardrobe as well. From designer watches and stainless rings to bracelets, there are cufflinks also which you can easily find in their formal appearance. Especially cufflinks, the small yet striking accessory used to fasten the cuffs of a shirt, have become a vital part for business tycoons. If you are also looking to step your business casual attire up a notch higher than it’s time to dress for business. Business casual means something less formal than a suit and tie, not a casual outfit that looks vaguely presentable.

You should act little careful when opting for cufflinks because accessories can make or break your entire outfit. With business casual, keep them to a minimum. If you have double cuff shirts, which work fine casually as long as a jacket is worn, cufflinks will be needed. Choose small and simple cufflinks with a solid metal such as Sterling silver.

There are few more tips how to wear cufflinks in the correct manner:

1. It would be ideal to choose cufflinks as per your taste. There are lots of shape and sizes available to complement your personality. If being classy is your choice than opt for stylish butterfly shaped enamel cufflink. They are bound to turn your look classier.

2. You should consider your personality before buying any cufflinks. You can wear any pair, but to make sure it’s a success, it is best to match the cufflinks with your character as well. If you are hosting a ceremony, whether in an office event or wedding function, put cuffs on your sleeves that will drive in a smooth look instead edgy and tacky.

3. There is a need to a pay attention to colors. It is important to be reminded that as tiny as cufflinks are, they still need to match or at least not clash with the rest of your outfit. Simple go with silver, black and grey cuffs if you are not sure about the colors. You won’t go wrong with sterling silver cufflinks in this case. Remember, there is no need to follow trends blindly or run behind red carpet trends as they look far away from reality. Choose what suits you most.

4. Choose your material and the cost will be a consideration as well. While the classics are usually silver, steel, or gold, there are so many kinds of materials used for cufflinks today.

Protect your precious gems and jewellery with some easy to follow rules!

Does it not make you feel special wearing your mother’s antique necklace set or grandma’s gold bracelet? Indeed an adorable feel, right? But, girls have you ever wonder how their jewellery can look so captivating and sparkly even after using it for so many years? Well, it is all due to their right way of using the jewellery and cleaning them occasionally. Mothers are always very particular about their jewellery, not only because they love them all but they know their treasure is going to embellish her daughter or daughter-in-law’s wardrobe one day. They keep their every single accessory shielded, literally.
Here are few tips followed by many generations to protect their jewellery.
A big no to chemicals- First thing you need to follow is wear jewellery right. There are lots of chemicals we apply in our daily routine, some from soaps, gels, dishwashers, detergents and etc. Never use any product while you are wearing precious jewellery. The chemicals can damage the shine and make them looking dull overtime.
Save them from Cosmetics- This is really small rule or tip you can follow easily. Don’t put jewellery before putting on your make-up. Always leave the accessories for the end. Sprays and perfumes can transform the color and shine of your favorite piece, so avoid them getting in contact. Make sure you take off jewellery before going for a swim or to the spa as chlorinated water can harm the originality of the gem too. Wearing jewelry while working in the kitchen or garden is another mistake we often make and end up damaging jewelry.
Keep them in a Velvet Or Cloth Lined Box- The jewellery you wear rarely should be kept in velvet or cloth lined jewellery boxes. You can also use the idea to caste a cursory glance at your jewelry now and then to inspect them for damages and debris because prevention is always better. Ask your grandma where she used to keep her favorite jewellery. Cotton balls would top on her list, for sure.
Cleaning Your Jewellery Occasionally- Improve the life of your jewellery by cleaning them occasionally. But remember the process of cleaning is important. Don’t use regular bathing soap or bleach. There are cleaning solution available in the market or simply make one at home with half a cup of clear ammonia in one cup of lukewarm water. Put your jewelry in the water for ten minutes and wipe clean with a soft cloth. If necessary use a soft brush to remove the dirt. Be gentle to them.

Trends from New York Fashion Week to transform your wardrobe into a chic one!

Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week is set to unfold another extravagant event in New York and it officially starts on Thursday 4 September and will continue till September 11, 2014. The event will mark the presence of fashion folk from around the world at NYC’s Lincoln Center and would see what’s hot next season. The week features more than 80 shows, presentations and special events from both U.S. and international designers. It would be a preview of what will be in stores next season and at red carpet. As the final days of summer are slipping out, the show will accentuate what is going to make our next season hot and trendy. Though it is still too hot to dust off all our coats and jackets just yet, but there are a few trends we saw back in February that can help make the transition from summer to fall seamless. It is anticipated that as the last season saw a few key jewelry trends, namely black, pearls, and statement collars, something in contrast is going to be witnessed this time.
Here catch the trends which we will see again in the season:
Shades of Gray- Yes, the eye-soothing color will rule the runway yet again. As seen on the runways of Ralph Lauren, Jason Wu, and Michael Kors, the shades of grey will back in the next season. For that oomph filled look, you can mix pieces of different types and textures to master this monochromatic trend. Bring bright colored accessories, like silver chunky rings and bracelets to wear with grey coats and jackets. If wearing deep-neck, turquoise onyx and marcasite pendant would bring in the glamour, instantly.
The Bolder, The Better- The runway would mark bold apparels instead of bold jewellery. In fact, there are high chances you would notice models and celebrities going out with minimal accessories. Designers like Karen Walker and Vera Wang let you know how you can rock the world without the load of accessories. Studs and band patterns rings would come as the saver of this look. It would be a treat for those who find accessorizing is such a load.
Bring out disco days- Totally contrast to above two trends, designer Marc Jacob’s models shimmered down the runway covered in sequins from head-to-toe, while Delpozo and Phillip Lim followed the sparkly suit. Last season in New York Fashion Week had jumped into a time machine and went back to the disco days. If you are interested to get glitzy, try taking a casual look up a notch by adding a sequined blazer, chunky jewellery and oversized handbags. One thing you can apply with ease in brooch and head accessory for the retro look.

Angelina Jolie gives tribute to her mother by wearing her jewellery on wedding day with Brad Pitt!

The most awaited wedding of Hollywood actors Angelina Jolie, 39, and Brad Pitt, 50, finally came to reality on August 23, 2014. It was a secret wedding and was witnessed by few special members, including their six children. The blushing bride looked gorgeously stunning in an Atelier Versace master tailor Luigi Massi wedding dress. She worked closely with a designer to make sure drawings by the children were a colorful feature on her otherwise classic and elegant wedding look. And we must say the gown was oh-so enthralling to eyes and that satin white plain color enhanced her curves to the maximum.
About her D-day special gown, Angelina said, “Luigi is like family to me and I couldn’t imagine anyone else making this dress. He knows and cares for the children and it was great fun putting it together.” You won our respect for this adorably innovative idea Angie. Well, let’s not forget about the one who balanced the class and charisma of wedding on the day is none other than Brad Pitt, who wore a black suit from his closet. However, he had to borrow a tie from one of his sons because he forgot his, the sources reports. Too funny!
Apart from this glamour, it is reported that the couple had engraved a special message dedicated to Angelina’s mother Marcheline Bertrand, who passed away from ovarian cancer in 2007 in the chapel. “Brad had a dedication to Marcheline engraved inside the chapel where we stood,” said the Tomb Raider actress, adding that they stood on a special stone featured with a tribute on it. Angelina and her brother James Haven additionally wore some jewelry which belonged to their late mother during the ceremony. “I also wore a little flower ring that was hers, and Jamie wore an angel pin from her jewelry box,” said Angie adding that her mother was her best friend. “There are no words to express what an amazing woman and mother she was,” she defines.
Angelina also wore her engagement ring given to her by Brad Pitt. The ring is estimated to be worth Rs 1.3 crore approx, and apparently it took Pitt a year to perfect the design along with jewellery Robert Procop. The actress wore the same ring on her wedding day, along with little white studs. She looked drop-dead gorgeous on that minimal-jewellery look.

GLOBAL MARKETS: European Stocks Led Up By Techs But Caution Remains

--European stocks up; decent earnings help the main indexes
--ARM leads gains in London; tech sector storms ahead
--Portuguese 10-year government bond yields remain elevated
--Euro-zone unemployment rate digested
By Michele Maatouk & Andrea Tryphonides
Of DOW JONES NEWSWIRES
LONDON (Dow Jones)--European stocks posted strong gains and the euro was higher against the dollar as investors tentatively welcomed the European Union leaders' agreement on a new fiscal pact, to be signed off in March, and a bailout mechanism that will come into force in July, while good earnings also boosted sentiment Tuesday.
However, traders are still wary as Portugal's 10-year government bond yield remained elevated early Tuesday and there was still no agreement between Greece and its private-sector creditors.
Investors are concerned that Portugal may need another bailout or a Greek-style debt-restructuring if it cannot regain access to the capital markets. At 1040 GMT, the Portuguese 10-year government bond yield was at 15.98%, according to Tradeweb.
"One cannot deny that Portugal is now under fire on the financial markets, especially given the recent downgrade of its sovereign debt to junk status by Standard & Poor's," said ING. "The risks are growing that Portugal ultimately could require ESM assistance, possibly to be agreed over the second half of 2012, for likely take-down from 2013. That said this does not mean that Portugal needs a Greek-style PSI deal," said ING.
"Remember that the Greek restructuring brings Greek debt down to 120% of gross domestic product. Portuguese debt is still comfortably below this level, and is likely to remain below in the next coming couple of years even if we discount a deep and persistent recession. So, an elevated second bailout risk, but PSI risk remains low," added ING.
Still, decent earnings, particularly in Europe's technology sector, helped the main stock market indexes higher.
At 1040 GMT, the benchmark Stoxx Europe 600 index was up 0.8% at 254.62. If it holds Tuesday's gains, the index is likely to close the month up by around 4%. London's FTSE 100 was up 0.8% at 5717.86, Frankfurt's DAX was 0.9% higher at 6506.18 and Paris's CAC-40 was 1.2% higher at 3304.14.
At the same time, U.S. stock-index futures pointed to a firmer open on Wall Street, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average front-month futures contract and the S&P 500 futures contract up 0.5% at 12,669.00 and 1315.80, respectively.
In London, ARM Holdings was up 4.6% and leading the blue-chip FTSE 100 index following the company's fourth-quarter results. The results beat market expectations largely due to strong demand for smartphones and tablets and the company said it is on track to meet expectations in the first quarter 2012. The results boosted the Stoxx Europe 600 tech sector, which was up 1.2%.
Also in London, British Sky Broadcasting gained 2.7% following well-received results. BSkyB reported an 8.4% jump in first-half net profit, underpinned by new pay-television and broadband customers. News Corp., which owns Dow Jones & Co. and The Wall Street Journal, holds about a 39% stake in BSkyB.
Elsewhere, steelmaker Thyssenkrupp jumped 1.4% after it came to an agreement to sell its Inoxum stainless steel division to Finland's Outokumpu Oyj. Outokumpu dropped 8.2%.
On the data front, the euro-area unemployment rate for December came in at 10.4%, unchanged from a revised November level and in line with economists' forecasts. ING said the unemployment figures "make for worrying reading," adding, "The only piece of solace is that the pace of increase in unemployment appears to be slowing."
Earlier, most Asian stock markets finished modestly higher Tuesday after the euro zone's move toward a closer fiscal union and positive economic data in Japan.
Japan's Nikkei Stock Average gained 0.1%, Australia's S&P/ASX 200 fell 0.2%, South Korea's Kospi Composite added 0.8%, Hong Kong's Hang Seng Index advanced 1.1%, while China's Shanghai Composite gained 0.3%.
Stronger-than-expected Japanese industrial production data supported the Tokyo market, although the yen's strength continued to hobble exporter stocks.
In foreign exchange markets, hopes that Greek talks on the restructuring of its debt will soon come to some sort of happy conclusion provided broad support for regional risk-sensitive currencies and the euro. There was also some good economic news out of Germany, which helped the euro. Seasonally adjusted unemployment fell in January by 34,000 and the adjusted unemployment rate hit a record low of 6.7%. Experts had expected unemployment to fall by 10,000 in adjusted terms and have an adjusted rate of 6.8% for January.
At 1045 GMT, the single currency was at $1.3186 against the dollar, from $1.3141 late Monday in New York. The dollar was at Y76.34, from Y76.33.
Spot gold was at $1,739.00 per troy ounce, up $10.00 from its New York settlement Monday, bolstered by a stronger euro. March Nymex crude oil futures were up $1.03 at $99.81 per barrel and Brent oil futures were 95 cents higher at $111.70. The March bund contract was down 0.44 at 139.23.
-By Michele Maatouk, Dow Jones Newswires; +44-20-7842-9447; michele.maatouk@dowjones.com

Barack Obama's drone statement: Pakistan calls missile strikes 'unlawful'

ISLAMABAD: Hours after President Barack Obama confirmed that US drones regularly target militants in its tribal belt, Pakistan today said such attacks were "unlawful" and a violation of its sovereignty.



"Our position on drone strikes is clear and based on principles. Drone attacks are unlawful, counter-productive and hence unacceptable," Foreign Office spokesman Abdul Basit said in a text message sent to PTI.


"We cannot condone the violation of our sovereignty," he said.

Obama confirmed for the first time that US drones had targeted militants in Pakistan's tribal areas during a chat with users of Google+ and YouTube.

He said "a lot of these strikes have been in" Pakistan's Federally Administered Tribal Areas.

"For the most part, they've been very precise precision strikes against al-Qaeda and their affiliates, and we're very careful in terms of how it's been applied," Obama said.

"This is a targeted focused effort at people who are on a list of active terrorists, who are trying to go in and harm Americans, hit American facilities, American bases, and so on... For us to be able to get them in another way would involve probably a lot more intrusive military action than the ones we're already engaging in," he said.