Sourcing Versatile Fabrics Made Easy ft Fabcurate

“Fit is everything. I don’t care what your body type is like: 

If you’re not wearing clothes that fit you, you can’t have style.”

— Stacy London

The quote above totally resonates my styling mantra that emphasizes the importance of exquisite clothing in enhancing one's physical appearance. Though majority of modern generation might plump for readymade garments as those are readily available in varied choices, designs, and patterns; but there is a large chuck of population that still tilts towards tailored clothing where you can always have a say in even the minute details of making of your garment and flaunt your fit inch by inch.

For those who fall in second category like me, and are keen to explore versatile fabrics, we've got you covered. If you’ve not heard me talk about Fabcurate earlier, this is an online fabric supplier platform based in Surat, serving a nationwide community of talented artisans. They have a selection of over thousands different fabrics from over hundreds of wholesale suppliers, which serves as an impressive library to source fabrics from.

While you may find tons of recommendations for branded physical stores for dress materials, I highly recommend you to have a thorough hunt at this digi-market and trust me, you won't be disappointed.

As the festive season is in full swing and it makes a fab excuse to buy new clothes to get dolled up, I've handpicked some gorgeous pieces to upgrade my wardrobe very thoughtfully and get the most snazzy ethnic ensembles curated for special occasions.

Here I enlist some of my favourite gems for dress materials you would certainly love-

Chanderi:
If you are planning for an alluring attire in Chanderi fabric, the bigger motifs are the best bet. A huge selection of quirky patterns, digital prints, geometric prints and dyeable fabrics is offered that can be your smartest fashion inns for this year. From Kurtis to skirts, dresses to tops, lehanga to saris - everything looks ravishing in Chanderi.

Raw Silk:
One of the smooth and delicate form of fabric that can easily be woven into different types of clothing items. Opt for the solid, printed, embroidered or checkered one - the garment made of raw silk can make for a gorgeous attire in any case.

Sequins Georgette Fabric:
Georgette fabric is durable, stronger, lightweight and a choice for younger women as its easy to carry. The beauty of a printed georgette fabric can be taken to next level when it's embellished with beads and sequins. The sparkle of sequins is quite voguish this year. Bright colours and neutrals both styles are getting an extra kick with all that glitters.

Organza:
Yet another most loved fabric of younger girls is Organza. Who doesn't love its stunning sheer! The translucent fabric reflects light beautifully and the attire looks so dreamy with matching accessories. Definitely a must have!

Fabcurate also gives its customers the choice to get their favourite designs printed on the fabric of their choice. Wow! Isn't it mind blowing to get your custom fabric printed with your own design to create something totally unique..

The best part is that they've an exclusive Men's Section wherein you may find premium quality fabrics for suiting, shirting, kurtas, sherwanis etc for casual wear, work wear or party wear. Don't miss out on Home Furnishing section to aesthetically beautify your space.

Fabcurate has become my go-to digital fabric marketplace coz they efficiently address the needs of an independent customer as well as emerging fashion designers. No minimum order quantity, easy reordering process, effective searching and filtering and competent prices are their distinguished USPs.

So what are you waiting for? Just explore the website to find practically everything that exists in fabric industry!

Interesting Raksha Bandhan Gift Ideas for Brothers

Raksha Bandhan is considered as one of the most loved festivals throughout India. Since ancient times, sisters tie the thread of love on their brother's wrist and in return, the brother showers her with gifts and sweets.

While your brother is busy scrambling for lovely presents for a lovely sister, why not surprise your 'favourite enemy' by the means of some cool return gifts that he might not be expecting from you!

Sisters who're contemplating as to what could be the perfect gift for their brothers, I've got a few amazing recommendations:

1. Customized or Handmade Rakhi: 

Raksha Bandhan is always special, but you may take it to another level by getting a personalizing your Rakhi with brother's name, initials or picture of you both. The unique rakhis available these days on online portals can be worn as bracelets even when the festival is over. 

The sisters who are skilled in craft can make the sacred thread of Rakhi at home using silk thread, wool, satin ribbon, foam, wool, sequins, tassels, beads and much more. Your brother would surely adore you for your efforts.

2. Premium Fragrances & Grooming Kits:

Spoil your brother for choices with some premium perfumes and finest grooming kits that he may utilize on every day basis. For the men who prioritize self-care, a luxurious grooming kit curated thoughtfully with shaving essentials, skin care essentials and bathing essentials is definitely a failsafe idea of conveying your love to your brother.

3. Classy Fashion Accessories: 
Men grab more attention when their well-endowed look is complete with a few classy accessories. Some premium fashion accessories that are undoubtedly the best picks include a leather wallet, a bowtie, lapel pins, cufflinks, neckties, silk scarves etc. You may actually choose to order accessories giftsets online from trusted websites like Mensome as there're plenty of options to choose from and that too in special packaging at pocket-friendly prices. 

  

4. Vegan Snacks & Sweets: 

With a widespread awareness of veganism, people have switched to healthy and plant-based eatables and drinks. A combo pack of guilt-free snacks consisting of roasted, sugarfree, protein-packed snacks gonna be a stand-out return gift for your diet-conscious brother that he may indulge into without having to count calories.

5. Fitness-Oriented Gifts:

For the gym rat in your life who loves spending time in shaping his body, a plethora of gift options are open to win over his heart. Choose from a portable blender, personalized shaker, foam roller, yoga blocks, gym bag, resistance band set, muscle massager or simply a gym-friendly outfit-the workout enthusiast brother will thank you for helping him melt away his body fats. 

The gifting choices for a special sibling are simply endless, however, I would choose to move away from traditional options and consider giving my brother something to enhance his individual style and separate him from the crowd.

Do share in comments which option did you like the most.

#HappyGifting 

Adorn Your Space With Artistic Bedlinen ft. WorldofEk

"Rooms should not be put together for show, but to nourish one's well-being.”

My family loves making modifications to our home decor every now n then, especially when season changes because we feel that introducing a few smart upgrades may be the best way to avoid the blues.

While it's highly wasteful and spendthrift to change furniture like sofas, dining table or bed every year, the trick is to enhance the aesthetic conveyed by same furniture by switching up the textiles used. With the similar thoughts in my mind, I wanted to give my bedroom a new lease on life by changing up soft furnishings and incorporating happy colors like fuschia, marigold orange and pastel green in my bedlinen.

In a world where it is hard to find comfort and elegance together, the magnificent collection of ethnic bed linen from WorldofEk makes it possible. I stumbled upon WorldofEk while searching for some cotton beddings with traditional prints and I was literally hooked to its vibrant aesthetic appeal. 

WorldofEk is the signature label of Ektaa R Kapoor that presents handpicked collection of home décor, spiritual jewellery, wellness accessories, premium copperware and dining ware inspired by our rich heritage. 

From the wide array of bespoke product range, I loved the Bagh Journal Collection that has beautiful exotic collection of bedsheets, dohars and cushion covers in a variety of colours and designs to amplify the ambience of any space. I ordered the Coral Bagh Journal printed Double Bed Dohar for my bedroom. 

I was pleased to receive my order in a no-plastic packaging. The dohar was neatly packed in a muslin cloth bag with brand logo printed on it. 

This dohar (coversheet) is made of 100% pure cotton that is breathable an temperature regulating. It uses natural dyes that is non-allergic and safe for even the most sensitive skin. The highest quality yarn in a beautiful weave provides you with the perfect cozy sleeping environment. I liked how this dohar gave my bedroom a sense of freshness with stunning floral patterns in a subtle color palette. 

WorldofEk has some awesome decor items created for the contemporary Indian home that one can add to give a refreshing modern twist to mainstays. 
Having said it all, its vital for a homemaker to choose colours that are calming and bring positivity, pick material that is easy to maintain and incorporate exotic prints to create a perfectly relaxing ambiance for their happy place.

Be Unique with BeYouNick Street Style Trends

The weather is heating up in most parts of the country and it's the perfect reason for the guys out there to refresh their wardrobe. 

If 'fashion merged with function' sounds like your aesthetic, KRA's trendy street style clothing is certainly your best bet. Go from the sofa to the street with ease in a tasteful, relaxed and functional outfit that doesn't stop you from having fun under the sun.

KRA is the brainchild of BeYouNick (@BeYouNick on Instagram), one of the most leading names in the content creation space. The brand focuses on philosophy of 'celebrating the streets' and offers men's fashionwear that aces style game without sacrificing on comfort.

Let me reveal the essential clothing stuff for looking good in the sun this season. 

Pick up a versatile Shacket in a shade of your choice - grey, blue, black top the charts. Essentially, a shacket is a mashup between a jacket and a shirt. Think of it as a heavier button-up shirt that you may rock as outerwear. Shackets are not just better-looking, but play really well with layering. You can elegantly layer it up by leaving the shirt unbuttoned and effortlessly tossed over a solid T-shirt.

The one I bought from KRA is a Long Sleeved Oversized Shacket made of 100% cotton, has got bellows pockets to add to its charm. Red zippers and brand logo patch on the sleeves enhance the appeal for reasons so good. The best part of owning a shackets is that it can be worn with almost anything all the year long - under a coat in winter or over a t-shirt in spring, summer and autumn.

Once your topwear is all set, it's time to individualize your style by choosing a well-coordinated bottomwear. Try pairing shorts with a long-sleeve button-down and cuffed sleeved shirt. Woven fabric shorts are remarkable because they also offer a refined look and add a dash of texture.

The Summer Essential Navy Woven Shorts I bought from KRA is certainly a summer staple in men's wardrobe. Whether lounging on the beach or strutting the city streets, this one will put your legs in a relaxed movement. 

Overall my shopping experience with KRA has been absolutely satisfactory on following pointers-

• Easy and flawless ordering process
• Quick dispatch and timely delivery
• Smooth navigation on the website
• Correct product info especially sizing and fabric
• Excellent product quality

KRA is currently offering amazing discounts on most of the product categories including Shirts, T-Shirts, Hoodies, Jackets, Joggers and much more under Knockout Summer Sale. So avail the exclusive offers and fill up your summer closet with some chic and easy summer wardrobe updates.

A Tokriful of Handloom Gifts For the Women ft. iTokri

Finding the perfect gift for the woman who has your heart is easier said than done and when it’s time to express respect and gratitude towards special women in your life on the occasion of Women's Day, you won't like to miss out on making her feel loved with a thoughtful gift. 

Most women have their personal favourites ranging from elegant ornaments to indulgent spa treatments to dinner dates and what not, but one of my favorite ideas is gift them the most treasured present of the season which makes a gift of utility as well. 

Luckily, many online platforms are flooded with exciting gift ideas these days, but not all of them are equally useful for every woman. So this time when I was planning to order gifts for my mum and sister, I decided to first evaluate the personality of my wonder women and then buy gifts depending on their current needs. Instead of sending across a surprise gift, I had a casual chat with them about the gift and caught the hints they dropped. 😉

And finally I shopped for beautiful Jacquard South Cotton fabrics from one of the trusted website iTokri.com for all of us in the colour and patterns of everyone's choice. My shopping experience went so good that I couldn't resist sharing with you all.

First thing first, why I did I buy these South fabrics? 
As the temperature has started rising in North India, it's important to make smart fabric choices that looks graceful without showing sweat patches during the heatwave. Cotton fabric is the best pick for its breathability, light weight and easy maintenance attributes. Amongst various variants available for cotton fabrics, the bordered South cotton literally has my heart. Available in hundreds of colours on iTokri, each one is prettier than the other depicting vibrant spirit of India. 

A special mention goes for the no-plastic packaging of my order (as seen in pic above). Team iTokri is not only making waves across community with their ultimate business ethics, but also is mindful of phasing out plastic and sticky tapes etc with recyclable alternatives which results in improved sustainability. My package arrived in a paperboard box with a handwritten note and two indigo cotton hankies as a sweet gesture. Kudos!

Those who're keen to explore the site, the good news is that iTokri not only houses fabrics but also offers a multitude of clothing items like sarees, stoles, skirts, kurtis for women of all age groups. You may even find jewellery, accessories, bags, face masks and footwear etc that will help you create a complete curated look for yourself. 

I love that exclusive section of the website which presents an array of authentic handicraft items fetched from different states of India. One can handpick folkart paintings, handcrafted stationery, pottery items, bamboo items, copper and brass items in wallet-friendly prices. Such items make an excellent corporate gift item too. 

Last but not the least, quick delivery is the major USP of iTokri that definitely earns them more of satisfied and returning customers like me. ✌
Hope you 'njoy shopping with them!

Guide for Choosing Women Shapewear

"There is nothing more rare, nor more beautiful, than a woman being unapologetically herself; comfortable in her perfect imperfection." - this sounds so thought-provoking, yet is not accepted the way it should be. 

Most women crave to flaunt an aesthetic body featuring their physical proportions that are symmetrical and balanced like famed celebrities. They make every possible attempt to resemble the iconic hourglass figure conforming to ‘smaller-waist-bigger-bust’ standards. But it’s important to remember that the perfect measurements that those celebrities show to impress us are not as real as they seem to be. In my opinion good dietary habits, lifestyle choices, and certain tweaks to our fitness routine can certainly influence the way our body looks. 

However, if you want to lose inches around your waist, hips or chest, there are fashionable compression garments making a buzz in the women-centric fashion world to effectively create an illusion of flatten tummy. Yes! we're emphasizing the use of body shapers for women that beautifully smoothen any lumps and bumps while accentuating the bust. Wearing a shapewear helps the body contour for achieving a feminine silhouette. Women body shapers have a typical elasticity. They not only help the body gain spinal support but also prevent concerns like humpback, flat hip, bulky leg etc. These body shapers are tight, body-hugging and completely discreet so they cover up women's weak spots while rendering a great posture for an ultimate confidence boost.

Since shapewear make women look sassy and graceful, many of them prefer to wear these on special occasion to zip themselves in a specific type of outfit. But there have been anecdotes from real users who vouch for the efficacy of shapewear when they wore it as workout waist trainer on regular basis while enjoying their everyday activities including the gym. 

Many women who initially found it difficult to even get the hooks closed for their waist trainers were successfully able to transform their figures incorporating a well-fitted workout waist trainer in their training regimen. 

For a last piece of advice while picking up the appropriate shapewear or waist trainer, I would suggest to select a garment wisely that targets your problem area, fits properly as per your hi-waist, low-waist and hips measurements & doesn't cause you pain or numbness in any body part. Because if you want to live in a compression garment for few hours every day, it should feel like your second skin. 

Dark Chocolates: The Most Satisfying Solution to Period Woes

"Periods are Red, I'm feeling Blue. 

Screw You Hormones, Mother Nature I can't handle you." 

Needless to mention, most girls and women have experienced this kind of emotion at least once when they're in the cramp town with irritable pain, heightened anxiety, low energy, extreme fatigue, mood swings and disturbed physical activities due to their monthly cycle.  

Periods are uncomfortable, painful and exhausting beyond imagination especially for females who bleed excessively. Some of them feel constantly paranoid that their clothes might get visibly soaked with blood even when it has never happened actually. 

Owing to such personal experiences, I thought of jotting down a listicle for some effective solutions for period struggle that most of us go through. 

Mild exercise during periods helps loosen the muscles and restores the hormones needed for a regular menstrual cycle. One can opt for low intensity aerobics, light walk, yoga or even a fun dance. Exercise has been proven beneficial to alleviate symptoms related to period cycle, just ensure it shouldn’t put 
additional stress on your body and interfere with your periods.

Massage therapy using essential oils during menstruation is really relaxing as it involves pressing specific points around your abdomen, legs, calves and back. I personally enjoy using lavender, peppermint and rose oil diluted with sweet almond oil. It makes your senses relieve the stress as well.

Besides working on your physical and mental comfort, yet another mindful approach is to wisely pick what you put into your mouth to keep those cramps in place. Hydrating yourself with warm liquids like Chamomile tea is a pain reliever for many that helps soothe your cramps. Try eating water-based foods, chew some nuts, or treat yourself with some dark chocolate as a dessert.

Dark chocolates not only satisfy your sweet tooth craving during your period, but it's high in potassium which helps your muscles to function. I usually stock up BeeTee's Melt bean to bar artisan chocolates for myself that are all natural, preservative-free, soy-free, refined-sugar free and gluten-free. While ordering my BeeTee's pack, the Cocoa content is quite significant for me, because it is basically a source of flavonoids which a special class of antioxidants to make chocolates such a healthy treat. 

Biting into a piece of rich, dark chocolate makes me crave for more during periods, so I usually order an assortment of different chocolates with different cocoa content in each to make a perfect combo. I admire the artistically printed tin pack in which the Beetee's chocolates came elegantly packed (I'm going to repurpose this box for sure.)

Isn't it a treat to yourself when you just want to curl up in the bed with a natural energy-elevator in your hand managing your mood swings by stimulating the production of endorphins and serotonin in your body. I really feel thankful when the traces of iron, magnesium, potassium in this best dark chocolate considerably relieve the pain, relax my sore muscles, improve my blood haemoglobin levels and relieve me from retaining water and feeling bloated. 

I agree that it’s not always advisable to give in to these cravings, but these Vegan dark chocolates are certainly an acceptable indulgence for your period woes.

In the end, I would say, "Don't be afraid of bleeding. We bleed to keep the world moving." 

Shapewear Vs Waist Trainer - Which is best for you?

"A woman's beauty is a treasure beyond body shape", but with images of 'ideal female beauty' bombarding us daily, it is really easy to forget this saying. Perceptions surrounding body types and beauty standards are so strenuous that many women who don't possess a desired body shape have to experience severe psychological effects. 

While everyone cannot have a perfect hourglass figure, one can choose to use body shapers that help compressing bulgy areas of feminine body so that they may create an illusion of desired body shape. These are special body-hugging garments made with lycra microfiber and are worn under usual female outfits without feeling uncomfortable. Markets are flooded with wide variety of body shapers that target specific body part to enhance posture like Camisole, Tummy Tucker,  Waist Clincher, Butt Lifter and Full Body Shaper.  Each of these shapewears is designed to give a toned look to the waist, belly, back, butt of the wearer and give a slimmer look. A rule of thumb while buying shapewears is to choose appropriate size and material because wearing the appropriate piece means your silhouette will look smoother in your clothes without causing your skin any allergies or reactions.

While apprising ourselves of effective shapewears, a mention of waist trainers is a must. Though shapewear and waist trainers are now a fashion must-have in a feminine closet, but they perform differently. The purpose of shapewear is to instantly give you smooth figure in your outfit irrespective your body type. On the other hand, waist trainers can help fix your body shape for longer time if the wearer uses it religiously. basically a waist trainer is made of high compression latex material that sucks in excess fat and 'trains' your waist to remain in shape. This simply means that you need to be consistent in your use of waist trainers to achieve your target. If chosen wisely, its fat burning feature can greatly impact reducing inches from your abdomen as well as your back. 

In a nutshell, the choice between shapewear and waist trainers entirely depends on the purpose you need it for. If need a temporary fix, opt for a shapewear. However, if you want a more permanently toned tummy area, opt for a waist trainer. Remember, for longer term permanent waist-reduction your waist training regime should be used in conjunction with healthy diet and moderate exercise. You can shop for different options of wholesale waist trainer for women for accentuating your bustline gracefully.