The year is about to come to an end and I'm a little stunned, mainly at quickly it has flown by! From taking in the rays of the sun to taking a leap of faith, 2015 was definitely memorable. It was a year where it was difficult to crack a joke without someone getting offended, it saw yet another mini Kardashian get a bizarre name and plus size models like Denise Bidot change the scenario of modelling. For Style File, it has been a flurry of amazing projects, brands and photo shoots. While it certainly is a trip to nostalgia-ville for me, I'm going through the year and doing a roundup of the very best that 2015 had to offer on the blog.

Best of personal style: The salwar kameez suit

When it comes to Indian wear, I've been more of an casual observer than a wearer but that changed this year. From dipping my toe in the ethnic pond, I finally went all out (or as all out I can venture into) with this personal style feature. I celebrated the festive season in Indian finery, which was surprisingly light and incredibly wearable. Reds and golds are traditional classics and they came out magically under the sun of the golden hour.

Best of beauty: Beauty Queen on a Budget for Monsoon 2015

 
Since the beginning of the BQOAB series, it has really come into its own and boy, have I enjoyed working on it every season. During the monsoons, I took special care to scour out products that address skin and hair concerns which affect us all during that period. Besides just finding the best products for the season, I even chanced upon a winner of a product which I've repurchased twice already (Psst! It's the Maybelline BB Stick)

Best of Lakme Fashion Week: Favorites from Lakme Fashion Week Winter/Festive 2015

 
I'm a fashion girl at heart and for our tribe, fashion week is the Christmas of the industry. It might as well be since the grandeur with which trends, showstoppers and designs are showcased is akin to a festive season. So it is without a doubt that my best fashion week post was one with my point of view of the event. From silhouettes to designers, it wasn't an easy job taking my pick from all the choices but it certainly was a fun one!

Best of DIY: Valentine's Day gift ideas

This year saw it's fair share of do-it-yourself projects but there was definitely a clear winner for me. Divided into 3 sections for 3 types of gift receivers with diverse interests, the gift ideas for Valentines was set to the tone of love and varied from food to nail art for the right gifting idea that you can make yourself.

Best of Style Files: The power of social media

Every year, social media keeps making waves and in 2015, one of those waves was due to Essena O'Neill, a teenager who was making an income as a social media influencer renouncing the medium. Her dramatic abandon of social media brought to light many nuances of the digital world, which as a blogger, I too found a relation with. The scenario of blogging has changed drastically over the past few years too and the Essena debacle, without questioning the validity of it, helped discuss a lot of them.

Best of Inspiration: Taylor Swift and her girl squad

 
It was the year that T-Swift convened a gang of her most stunning supermodels and artist friends to strut their stuff on the red carpet and her concerts. Being the top notch Hollywood celebrities, they are, but obviously, dressed to the nines and make for exceptional fashion inspiration. A breakdown of the personal style of her girl gang, which included a Victoria's Secret angel, a Kardashian and obviously, T-Swift herself was my favorite inspiration posts which covered some of my personal favorite style icons as well.


This time last year, things were very different. My hair was much longer and I was finding my feet in life, while having a mild existential crises every now and then. What a world of a difference one year makes! I feel like I've finally hit solid ground this year because I've gotten closer to knowing what makes me happy. Style File has evolved greatly from being just a personal style blog. I've worked hard to include budget options, perspective pieces, do-it-yourself projects and beauty tutorials that you as a reader can enjoy which leaves me creatively satisfied as well. It's been a fulfilling year and I'm excited to take Style File in a direction that balances both those elements.

Wishing you a year full of love, laughter, health and happiness ahead, my dearest readers. 2016, I can't wait to meet you!

xo
Dayle

Come Christmas time and the merriment begins. The tree is to be trimmed with ornaments and baubles. The gingerbread is to be baked, or in my case, eaten. The stockings are to be hung and mistletoe to be placed strategically. It is also a time that makes me feel incredibly grateful; for the people around, the delightful holidays and the presents under the tree.

But there are some gifts that just cannot be wrapped and placed under the Christmas tree and I'm not referring to love and goodwill here. They can't be wrapped because they exist only in my imagination. Fashion girls and beauty lovers, you feel me. There will always be that something that you wish you could own, if only it was invented. Here's my wishlist so Santa, if you're reading it, I'd suggest you put together a strong research and development team and get cracking.

Everlasting Eyeliner

We've got eyeliner that claims it doesn't smudge, another that is supposed to stay put for two days and yet another that comes with its own contraption to get the perfect flick. But we still have raccoon eyes and wonky lines. So could we get all of those magically properties in one little eyeliner please? One that really doesn't smudge (none of that water resistant drivel) and lasts for a good day on my eyes.

The real deal of comfy heels

Comfy heels? Who are you trying to kid! Every heel has its time period within which it is bearable enough to be endured but beyond that, you either switch to a flat pair which isn't as good looking as your killer heels or you kiss your ankles goodbye. Let's face it, comfy heels are an urban legend, something like a good looking pair of crocs. Santa, how about you make this legend a reality? You'll be making a lot of ladies very thankful.

The little bra that could

Your excitement to wear that gorgeous strapless dress you've finally procured may be building so don't let that get dampened by the thought of the strapless bra you will have to wear underneath it. Possibly an ancient instrument to induce discomfort, the strapless bra just doesn't let you win. Even with the strips of silicon, elastic and what-have-you on the sides; somewhere in the middle of the evening, you know you'll be looking for a dark corner to do a quick pull up. So, for the sake of girls scooting into corners everywhere, how about a strapless bra that actually stays firmly in place?

Frizz-free freedom

I've spent a good portion of my day hunched awkwardly in front of the mirror in an attempt to blow-dry and straighten my hair; all in the anticipation of a big night ahead. And while my hair game does end up on-point; the second any moisture greets my hair, frizz isn't far behind and we're right back to square one. So for once, I'd like to get that a head of frizz free hair without all the fuss and one that isn't afraid of a sudden shower or a sweaty summer day.

A maxi for a mini

The next time I try on a maxi dress, I would like if it fit me just the way it is intended and ends just at the heel. But no, that's just a dream because every time this instance has played out in reality, I have so many metres of extra fabric at the bottom, I could stitch another crop top from it. So Santa, my dear, it would be nice if the petite girl community was acknowledged in the maxi department to get the fit we truly deserve. So while I'm not asking for a sable to be slipped under the tree, this wishlist would make me one happy lady!


Do you have any fictional items that you'd love invented - Go ahead and add them in! Here's to a wonderful holiday season full of joy, fruit cake and well-wrapped presents! Have a very merry Christmas!

xo
Dayle

It all begins when I face my reflection in the mirror every morning. These days I've started my day on a bright note but it wasn't always like this. I've had my fair share of downers like greasy skin or a dreaded pimple staring right back at me and that's the very last thing you want when you are about to start your day! It's a case of been there, done that for me. Because with my winning skin combination of an oily tone while being slightly sensitive, I've encountered many a skin issue from acne to oiliness. That is what taught me the right way to manage my skin which gives me a face which is ready to take on the day.

That's why I'm glad I discovered the Clean & Clear oil-free Foaming Facial wash and the way it changed how I felt about the reflection I see every morning. Having oily skin all my life, I know just the effect that it can have on your face. The time limit on makeup is always shorter and a touch-up at the powder room is always due. Blotting sheets and tissues are mandatory in your handbag. Matte finish face products are your new best friends.

It began to feel like your beauty routine, which was supposed to be exciting, isn’t quite so because the threat of oily skin peering through has made it seem more like a procedure. And I’m not alone because this conundrum is one faced by teenagers and young adults the world over. That intent gazing in the mirror that we don’t make much of, is often the start of self-judgement and anxiety about your appearance. But that was about to change. While you do have to accept the skin you are born in, the feeling of dread that it brings does not need to be.

Clean & Clear have the strong belief of true beauty being one that comes from being secure about oneself; and the concept of Ready Face is to embrace just that.  With the sole motive of bringing out the most courageous version of oneself, it is about empowering you to take back the mirror. Whether it is a large grin, a power pose or a naughty wink, Ready Face aims to showcase the most fantastic, confident version of you.

With its ability to control the oil emitted by my skin for a huge chunk of the day, the oil-free Foaming Facial wash from Clean & Clear brought the bang back to my beauty routine. The mirror will never again need to be faced with a sense of panic as this product has got you in good hands. One that I recommend for solely oily skin tones, the focal point of the Foaming Facial wash is its very best - it keeps the oiliness of my skin under check for up to 8 hours! That’s a whole 8 hours of oil-free skin, no blotting papers necessary. Going one step further, it also prevents pimples from cropping up. Its clean, citrus-y fragrance and the rich fine foam that it builds gives the skin a thorough cleanse while banishing the two most notorious skin problems every oily skin sufferer has faced, leaving you with fresh and clear skin.

So the next time you come up close and personal with yourself in the mirror, it doesn't have to be intimidating; in fact, it can be quite assuring. All you need to do is remind yourself that you are fantastic and with a smile, you can take on everything that the world throws at you. All you need is your ready face to go out and take on the day.

xo
Dayle

Disclaimer: Sponsored story with honest, genuine opinions

Lakme Fashion Week is not new to Style File. Year after year, it has been exclusively covered with my personal outlook of fashion week as well as the hottest trends from the ramp and there's a reason behind that. There's an electricity in the air when I walk into the venue on the D-day which I've spoken about before and something that never fails to excite me. Another strike of that electricity is felt when I watch the showcase and choose my favorites from so many renowned, gifted designers. A tricky task, no doubt but very exciting as well.
This edition, here are my favorites from Lakme Fashion Week.

Best of Quirk: Aartivijay Gupta

It was the humble sabzi mandi that got a designer remake and knowing Aartivijay Gupta was behind it ensured that the collection was not short of eccentricity. Our dinner staples found a place on the ramp at Aartivijay's collection as she merged them with good measures of gingham. While the print did steal most of my attention, I did not fail to notice that the layering game was strong in this one. With coats and blazers finishing off the look, this one definitely hit high on the quirk meter!

Best of Inspiration: Mayank & Shraddha

The Mayank & Shraddha show began with a shrill marching whistle that got my interest and made me reminisce those dreaded early morning Phys. Ed. classes. To my good fortune, the show wasn't at all like my class because while the inspiration behind the collection was from it, it's intelligent application took it much further. Waves of earthy tones, camouflage and patchwork hit the runway, which gave military chic a new meaning. Flowing stoles, capes and berets hit the winter bit like a nail on the head with classy gold buttons and aviators.

Best of Indian fusion: Tarun Tahiliani

Known for his ability to fuse together cultures and heritages, this showcase was no different. Tarun Tahiliani proved yet again to be the master couturier that he as this collection even inspired a detailed trend report for the season ahead and why wouldn't it, with its stellar drapes and fantastic fusion of traditional and contemporary.

Best of prints: Anand Kabra

Just because winter is coming doesn't mean the flowers don't bloom! While that may not be true to nature, at least we can count on Anand Kabra's collection for a floral dose. While staying true to the dark, mystical vibe that you can expect from a winter collection, he managed to sneak in a surprise, a richly stenciled Lotus motif  which found a place of pride over most layers from maxis to capes to blazers.

Best of traditional Indianwear: Neeta Lulla

Trust a legend like Neeta Lulla to stick to her cultural heritage and still manage to make it look spectacular. It was a feast for, not just the eyes but the soul as well as Indian ethnic wear of all forms from lehengas to anarkhalis took over the ramp. Replete with heavy embroidery, unique peacock and monument motifs and a whole lot of sparkle; this traditional take on fairyland brought out the desi vibe in all its glory.

Best of beauty: Arunima Majhi

Strobing has left its mark all over the world and Arunima Majhi drove that point home with the focal point of her show's beauty look being the glow. It was a special one for me too since I got the chance to get an exclusive peek backstage and while I was doing that, I caught the light glinting off the models razor sharp cheek bones which were strobed to perfection and complemented with natural mauve lips and defined brows.

Best of black and white: Nikasha

Before you hit refresh on yet another black and white pairing, Nikasha made it a point to prove that eternal can still mean relevant. This was made possible by freshening the classic combination with a play on textures in the form of the very trendy fringe. A vintage glamour overtook the collection with the fringe element lining and adorning elements of the clothing while the headgear added to the charm.

Best of silhouettes: Sonaakshi Raaj

It wasn't just a showcase for Sonaakshi Raaj as this was a time when she showed what she was truly made of. Versatility was the name of the game as it found its way into the number of silhouettes on the runway. It was the gorgeous Kriti Sanon who played the showstopper for the show in a flared hem, braided hairstyle and a lot of sparkle. Models sashayed across the ramp donning one new structure after the other from voluminous drapes to relaxed falls; keeping the surprises coming, all in one collection.

Photography: Leo Alemao / Style File

Hope you enjoyed my final post in this edition of the Lakme Fashion Week series. Until we meet again, LFW!

xo

Dayle

The chill in the air and the crunch in my step have signalled that the crisp, cosy season on Autumn, one that tops my most-loved list, is here to stay. I could write sonnets about the many things I love about fall but from them all; the early evenings are my favorites. The flaxen light falls gently and bathes everything in its path, from skyscrapers to pedestrians and in that blink-and-miss period of time; the world seems comforting and serene, even just for a little while.

That blissful hour that illuminates all is the most opportune one, which brims with possibility. It is that moment where all the forces align and the timings just right, which is what I experienced when we shot for this post. The golden hue, a heart filled with memories and a state of mind with indefinite promise, it all converged right then.

Max Fashion India red and gold salwar suit c/o |  Forever 21 drop earrings | Street bought gold kolhapuri chappals | L'Oreal Collection Star Pure Red in 'Pure Scarleto' lipstick [reviewed here] | Boots 17 in 'Risky Red' nail varnish

 

  

 Photography: Raynor Pereira / Style File

The latter part of 2015 a.k.a. the festive season has begun with a bang and even though Diwali is past us, there is never a better time to amp up the desi quotient in traditional red and gold. When it comes to Indian wear, I take baby steps because of a rather humorous first attempt at wearing a saree, but since then, I've successfully worn ethnic wear that's manageable and easy on the eyes as well. 

That's why, when I coyly unwrapped this stunning salwar suit that Max Fashion sent me this festive season, it was a delight in more ways than one. It sits comfortably on my frame, looks decadent but is a feather weight and celebrates the tradition of India, especially this season and all year through.

xo
Dayle

Recently, social media has been witness to a lively discussion on the very subject of social media. For the unaware, here's how it began. 19 year old Essena O'Neill, was a social media influencer based in Australia; a pretty young thing with immense popularity charting over half a million Instagram followers and two lakh YouTube subscribers. That was until she sensationally quit all social media platforms (which was her primary source of income), leaving nothing in its wake. Once her statement was out, she opened up about her longing for social approval and the lengths that the business can reach. Essena has now started a project Lets Be Game Changers, going to the extent of re-uploading her previous images on her website with captions telling the true story behind the picture.

As an individual with career in the digital sphere, I love using social media, for a variety of reasons. Topping that list would be, the ability to share my thoughts and creatively seek different directions; which I'm incredibly grateful that Style File and its social media channels have enabled me to pursue. However, the debate that arises is not on whether I enjoy using social media or not. Is is about the validity we gain from it, which ties social media and our self esteem together, further pushing the need making us more reliant on it.

Source

I've previously blogged about a few things I've been apprehensive to share because they break the mold on what a stereotypical fashion blogger should be. While that was three years ago; my views remained unchanged, especially that of the number game. Before social media had the clout it holds today, blogging was more simplistic. This is not true anymore because the incessant need for ever increasing numbers has led to the extent of purchasing followers to keep up with the Jones'.

You've got to admit, when you see the likes shoot up for that rosy toned selfie of yours, it massages your self-esteem just a little bit more; which can be a good thing! One of the best parts of social media is the positive impact it can have. Similarly, the Eff Your Beauty Standards campaign embraces a body positive stance and The Power of Makeup campaign took a stand on makeup shaming. Those are just two instances and there are a million more that prove how truly powerful social media is. So unleashing that power while maintaining authenticity online, that lies in your hand.

Image by Raynor Pereira

It goes without saying that posting on social media often has certain dictum's that are generally adhered to. You will see scenic locales and pretty plates of food at brunch. What you do not see is the messy inner section of your handbag and an undesired pimple cropping up on the chin. It is extremely easy to mask what is mundane and paint a rosy picture. The reason why we follow these made-up guidelines goes back to the debate on how the perfect picture will gain the most likes and validate our self-esteem. Don't get me wrong, everyone likes a pretty picture but pretty can't be the sole dictator of posting a picture - I like when mine has a story behind it.


A wise man once said, "With great power, comes great responsibility" In the same vein, having the power of social media is like holding a magical elixir in the palm of your hand - its potential is enormous. Using that very potential to the best of its ability, is up to you. What you upload or what you don't, how much a like affects your mood or whether it doesn't, the amount of your life you share or what you don't - that's your call. With influencer marketing reaching new heights, it is up to influencers to find the sweet spot that balances the validity that social media has on readers with the need for a genuine opinion, whether it be in their brand associations or sharing a viewpoint.

Source

We can sit up all night and debate about how Essena is a brave girl to bare it all or just a publicity seeker that's using her fame cleverly but there is a lesson to be learned. Your standing on social media is not the be all and end all. There's a lot that goes behind the making of a picture and just because it looks perfect, does not mean it is. You can do without the Internet every once in a while and FOMO be damned, it can be really good for you.

xo
Dayle

As autumn is just around the corner, so is the impending festive season of Diwali. Besides adorning the house and lighting a sparkler or two, it won't be long before the proverbial question about gifting arises. While I'm no pro at gifting for the festival of lights, I've witnessed my fair share of mithai boxes and dry fruit cases to know that a personalized, thoughtful present is always well appreciated. That is when I decided to give this whole festive gifting business a more contemporary spin.

Now if the Style File archives have taught us anything; it is that I have a mild obsession with jars, especially of the mason variety. So what better way to combine my favorite decor item and stay true to the elements of the festival of lights than with a Diwali themed jar as a well-thought, refreshing present.

For my jar, I've kept the theme to include generic items that are apt as per Diwali traditions as well as a little something something for those with a sweet tooth. The wondrous aspect of this project is how you can customize your jar just the way you like as the items that you include within it can vary depending on the person being gifted. If the individual has an affinity for decor, include a candle or if they are particular about a relaxed vibe in their home, throw in an essential oil.

  

Take a lesson from Drake and start from the bottom; of the jar that is. My base is layered with beads and foil confetti to add a more wholesome quality to the jar overall. Next, take your most heavy item and place it on the floor of your jar which, for me, are the potlis of organic rangoli colour. Then stack your item which is slighter lighter, which is my tea light candles. Finally, top it up with your lightest item which are my chocolates.

 To finish it off, sprinkle a little more confetti over the items. Start sealing the jar by spreading your fabric tightly over the mouth of the jar and tie a rubber band around the neck to keep it taut. Then with the help of a ribbon, conceal the rubber band by tying a bow around it.

  

Depending on the size of the jar, you can pack more or less items within it. It is a good idea to pack edibles in a separate package before layering it with the other items in the jar. Finally, there you have it - your Diwali themed gift in a jar is personal and modern while staying true to the festival of lights.

Here's to a warm and prosperous Diwali!

xo
Dayle

Time and again, I revert to telling you a merry story which has, most often, taken place on a warm, summer day. That's because the summer is made for memories and this story is no different. It all started during a wonderful summer vacation which was brimming with possibility. I had envisioned myself spending my afternoons playing Uno, eating ice lollies and strategically planning my moves in a Hide 'n Seek game. However, my dreams were dashed when I was set up to learn how to cycle.

Now, as an individual who is not highly inclined to athletics, my first reaction was to refuse it completely. How was I supposed to spend my summer doing nothing when I was to do something, especially one involving muscle exertion? But no meant no, was the answer I got; which led me to strap on my sneakers and begin a daily ritual of attempting to gain balance, swerve maniacally and get saved from a crash by my dad.
 

So while the rest of my gang continued with Uno, I continued to attempt to cycle. Soon enough, my legs were stronger, my balance was better and I could turn without skidding myself to a halt. One fine evening, which I remember as clear as day, I could feel the familiar weight of my dad holding the cycle frame firmly, until I didn't. My vacation until that point made sense in that very moment. That momentum which I had create all through the summer had finally thrust me forward into a moment of sheer weightlessness where I was finally able to progress, no training wheels necessary.
 

Westside printed kimono | Topshop lace trim tank top {London} | Zara frayed denim shorts [Previously seen here] | Promod micro messenger bag | Forever 21 layered necklace | Street bought head chain {Colaba} | Montego Bay at Payless gladiator sandals | MAC Viva Glam V lipstick |

Photography: Leo Alemao / Style File

And while I hope this long-drawn snippet of me learning a new skill was mildly entertaining, I've found it very relevant to life lately. Getting the hang of the cycle is without a doubt, a daunting skill but once you find the right amount of momentum, you will find that moving forward is easy and all you need to do is go for it and pedal.

While there isn't even a glimpse of autumn in sight, I've decided to start moving towards it with the light layering of a kimono while still being practical with high hems. Once I started mixing and matching the pieces, I found the bohemian accessories and metallic accents really bring the achromatic ensemble together. So while I reminisce about the season to come, layer by layer, I'm getting there.

xo

Dayle