1 THE A-LIST FACIAL
If your skin needs a glamorous pampering, try Vaishaly Patel’s Signature Facial.
A must-visit destination for those-in-the-know, even if you do have to wait six months for an appointment. It is Vaishaly’s ‘magic’ touch, facial massage skills and skin insights that keep many devoted clients returning for more.At a glance – and a touch – Vaishaly was able to tell a great deal about my skin’s needs. Her sought-after, hour-long signature facial is a powerful combination of extraction, microdermabrasion (a mini appliance blasts the face with aluminium-oxide crystals, then removes dead skin). This was followed by a blissful lymphatic stimulation massage, followed by a clay mask and soothing moisturiser.
2 THE RICH GIRLS FACIAL
If your skin needs ‘crème’ of the crop style luxury that promises eternal youth,try the Crème de la Mer facial.
This spa experience converges the healing energies of the sea, light, sound and touch to impart a profound sense of wellbeing. I lay down on a relaxing treatment bed in view of a gently lit aquarium with water quietly flowing over slate. All stress floated away as my feet were smoothed and massaged in Crème de la Mer’s sensorial waters. This was followed by a face massage using sea quartz and pure diamond dust to refine the skin and prepare it for a concentration of the original Miracle Broth™(a priceless extract sealed with the legendary Crème de la Mer, infusing skin with vital nutrients and energies). After 90 minutes of pure skin indulgence, my hands were then treated to a therapeutic pressure point massage.
3 THE DRY SKIN FACIAL
If your skin needs an SOS hydration fix, the E’SPA Rehydrator Facial is the one for you.
This is the ultimate rescue for dry, stressed-out and tired complexions and skin that needs a little help. My face, neck and décolleté was treated to a deep cleanse, followed by exfoliation and a nourishing, hydrating facial massage incorporating acupressure and lymph drainage using the latest E’SPA wonder product – Botanical Rescue. A firming mineral mask was then applied and left to absorb while I was given a heavenly, mind clearing scalp massage. The treatment was topped off by a nourishing moisturiser.
4 THE ANTI-BOTOX FACIAL
If your skin needs a natural lift, the Jurlique Fingertip Facelift Facial will work wonders for you.
My therapist called it the ‘natural alternative to cosmetic surgery’. The DeLuxe Rejuvanessence Jurlique facial comprised of a unique and very precise massage technique, using facial reflexology on the 91 muscles of the face, neck, skull and shoulders, whilst working on the connective tissue to make it more elastic and flexible. The massage was carried out using specially selected anti-ageing and rejuvenating products taken from the holistic, natural and organic Jurlique range. The aim of this facial approach is to help melt away lines and wrinkles, and revitalises the skin, leading to a younger, silkier and healthier appearance.
5 THE SKIN-KNOW HOW FACIAL
If you need some skin education, book yourself in for the Dermalogica facial.
After a full consultation and a beverage prescribed to suit your needs – relax, energise or detoxify. I lay back and relaxed whilst the therapist gave me a double cleanse under steam. This was followed by a thorough and unique Face Mapping skin analysis procedure (where my face was divided into 14 zones and the therapist pointed out areas of concern – from dehydrated areas to areas which were over-sensitive). After this, the treatment was tailored according to my skin’s concerns. Mine followed with an exfoliation, massage and finished with a helping of an addictive nourishing moisturiser.
6 THE HEALING FACIAL
If your skin needs a bespoke and personalised fix, the Gem Stone Facial will suit you just fine.
The Gem Stone facial was the first completely bespoke, personalised ayurvedic facial I have tried. My treatment started with a facial and pulse diagnosis, Iridology and Tongue Analysis to identify your skin’s needs. This diagnosis identified my ayurvedic elements or doshas, which control particular organs or bodily functions. You could be a vata (air), pitta (fire) or kapha (water) – or a combination. According to the findings in the diagnosis, fresh ingredients are blended specifically for your dosha (personality type) and your skin’s needs – all handmade with organic ingredients and infused with crushed gem stones (such as bloodstone, jasper, quartz, tiger’s eye), mineral extracts, homeopathic remedies, ayurvedic herbs and therapeutic oils (such as lavender, lotus, neroli, bergamot, rose geranium, rose oil, ylang ylang). What impressed me most about this facial was the attention to your specific needs. The products include not just herbal remedies but also homeopathic and ayurvedic ones that are individualised and specially added to the mix during your treatment. My neck pains were also treated with some reflexology and acupuncture. At the end of the facial, I got to take home all the products that were used in little bottles, to continue the good work!
7 THE YOUTH BOOSTING FACIAL
Elemis Visible Brilliance presents the Elemis Facial for those whose skin needs a youthful boost.
Before I started, my facialist informed me that my skins elasticity would increase by up to 28% and moisturisation levels by up to 38% after just one of these facials. The anti-ageing face and eye treatment instantly firms, decongests and plumps up the skin whilst reducing dark circles from around the eye contour. Specialised micro-circulatory massage techniques combined with the powerful proven formulations of Liquid Radiance, Cellular Recovery and the two-phase Amino Active Mask to help smooth, sculpt and restore skin radiance and plumpness. The superior treatment was further enhanced by a luxurious hand and arm massage and de-stress scalp treatment. Papaya Enzyme Peel, a gentle steam gives an even coverage by targeting any congested areas. After 75 minutes of pampering, I was woken by the gentle chime of tingsha bells, symbolising the ‘awakening’ and the end of the treatment.
8 THE PAMPERING FACIAL
If you’re looking for a treatment that is more than ‘just a facial’, opt for the Dr Hauschka Facial Treatment.
The treatment began with my feet being bathed in an aromatic sage filled bath. The foot and leg massage, hand and arm massage and head relaxation prepared me for the rest of the facial. The five step treatment started with a cleanse – including warm aromatic compresses, followed by a facial sauna and a clay-based mask mixed up to suit my skin. After two hours of pure bliss – which included the use of brushes with rhythmical sweeping movements to stimulate the lymph system, application of homeopathic ampoules to balance the skin and the use of the most gorgeous smelling products – I woke up to a thoroughly energised.
9 THE THERAPEUTIC FACIAL
If your skin needs a therapeutic boost Japanese style, try SK II Gen Ki Facial.
Steeped in ancient healing techniques incorporating tsubo energy pressure points and traditional Japanese facial massage, the SK-II Gen-Ki Energy facial left my skin visibly energised and firmer. The luxurious facial massage treatment uses four Japanese techniques of cleansing, steaming, energising and moisturising. The facial began with a tension releasing neck massage and a hot towel facial wrap to improve the circulation of blood, oxygen and nutrients to the face. My skin was then purified with SK-II’s Facial Treatment Cleansing Oil and toned with the Treatment Clear Lotion. This followed by an application of SK-II’s signature product Facial Treatment Essence loaded with Pitera, applied to the face, neck and decolletage to help combat dehydration. Next is an application of SK-II’s Facial Treatment Massage Cream, using massage movements that help to lift and firm the skin. Specially targeted facial pressure points were then stimulated. SK-II’s Signs Uplifter is then applied to target areas, where loss of elasticity can be seen. This is followed by the application of a Facial Treatment Mask to further tackle elasticity issues
10 THE CHOCOHOLICS FACIAL
If your skin needs a naughty treat, try the Co-co2 facial - the ultimate experience of feeling uplifted and looking radiant.
Co-co2 is a unique combination of Herzog’s unparalleled oxygen skin care products and the beneficial properties contained in chocolate. The treatment begins with a deep cleanse and skin preparation and moves on to include a heavenly deep drainage massage using exotic Monoi oil that has been infused in cocoa beans. As the aromas of the beans begin to infuse the air, my skin was lavished with a deeply penetrating oxygen rich mask. In a layering action, this is a Karin Herzog exclusive vitamin rich chocolate cream, blended with the purest Swiss cocoa powder, delivering a multitude of essential anti-oxidants, potassium, lipids, and vitamins to instantly lift and brighten the skin. Finally a delicious layer of freshly melted real Swiss chocolate was used to gently warm and insulate my skin, allowing for all the beneficial ingredients to penetrate deep into the skin. To top it off, I was spoilt with a warm cup of hot chocolate, and a tasty chocolate gift.

CANDY GIRL

Flushed Cheeks



Who doesn't look better with a healthy girly-glow? A pink blush instantly wakes up the complexion and as the cheeks represent the two largest and most noticeable areas on your face, it makes sense to highlight them. For a more radiant finish opt for a creamy formula, they blend beautifully and look great on naked skin or over foundation.



Top Tip: Make-up artist Laura Mercier says “Put a few dots of colour right on the apples of your cheeks, blend with your fingers or cream blush brush and voila!”



Pastel Eyes



Soft shades of marshmallow pink, sherbet blue, and pistachio green dressed on the lids oozes femininity and gives the face extra radiance. Mix and match the colours or stick to one family of shades for a softer effect. Don't forget to frame the eyes with black mascara and keep the rest of the face clean and fresh-looking.



Top Tip: If you feel that pastel hues are making you look a little 'washed-out' blend with a rich chocolate colour to add depth and contrast.



Bubblegum Lips



If you're stuck in a rut and want a change from your usual shade of lip colour, go for pink. When balanced with otherwise neutral make-up pink lips look sweet and compliment all skin tones. The choice of pink is all yours - pick fiery fuchsias for a shockingly daring look, or frosty pastels for a more subtler, lollypop-stained finish.



Top Tip: Layer a juicy lip gloss over a similar shade of lipstick. Should the gloss wear off, you are still left with coloured lips.

BEAUTY MYTHS EXPOSED!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

1.THE MYTH:8 GLASSES OF WATER A DAY IS A MUST

We know it's been declared by almost every magazine that guzzling eight glasses of water a day is essential – but the shocking truth is that there are absolutely no studies that have ever proved you must drink this much. Dermatologists say that the key is to drink what's appropriate for you instead of paying too much attention to the exact amount. The right amount can vary from person to person depending on your weight and how effectively your body uses that water. And there is such a thing as over-hydrating – drinking too much water, but you'd have to drink a lot to get to that point.

2.THE MYTH: NATURAL AND HERBAL PRODUCTS ARE BETTER FOR YOUR SKIN

Dayenne skincare founder, Raj Bhachu says ‘The terms natural and herbal, when put together with skincare generally resonate ideas of gentleness and effectiveness. Recently, the beauty industry has attempted to package every single natural ingredient and cleverly market the products as being gentle simply because they are derived from herbs or nature. However, caution must be exercised when choosing products that you intend to apply to your skin because some herbal or natural products also include various other ingredients, some of which may not necessarily be natural.’
Raj adds, ‘You must also bear in mind that organic products that do not contain preservatives may do more harm than good since “natural” and “herbal” products tend to deteriorate without preservatives.” The key to finding good skincare products is to identify one with a combination of good active ingredients in the formulation. Raj adds “Natural does not tell you about the effectiveness or risk of the product, it simply defines the source of the ingredient’. Skin experts suggest that the key word to search for isn't natural, it's noncomedogenic, which means the product won’t clog the pores.

3.THE Beauty Myths Exposed! MYTH: SOAP IS BAD FOR THE SKIN

Until recently soap had a bad reputation as being pore-clogging, drying and detergent-laden. “This is no longer the case with the new batch of soaps, which are milder, fragrance free and often dermatologically approved”, says Raj Bacchu, of Dayenne Cosmetique. When using soap, ensure you remove any residue with plenty of water and pat the face dry with an absorbent, non-abrasive towel. Choose a soap that is complimentary to your skin type. Clinique Facial Soap, (£9.50) is a mild, fragrance free cleansing soap, ideal for dry skins. ‘It is super-fatted, which makes it specifically designed to help protect the skin lipids and has been buffered with ingredients like petrolatum and glycerin to assure that skin is not stripped taut and dry during the cleansing process’, says Debbie D'Aquino, Vice President Global Product Development at Clinique. Oily skins should go for a non-greasy soap such as the Dayenne Soap Bar, (£9) which is great for cleansing oily areas of the face, neck, bust, back and shoulders that may be prone to breaking out in acne. It achieves ultra deep cleansing without damaging the skin's protective acid mantle (pH).

4.THE MYTH: APPLYING OIL TO THE HAIR WILL MAKE IT GROW

No matter what your mother or grandmother keeps telling you the truth is that the actual oil does nothing to promote hair growth. However, regular head massages can stimulate the circulation in the scalp, which causes the hair bulb to be flooded with the nutrients necessary for healthy hair growth. The oil itself will only work to nourish and condition the hair and make it appear shiny and luscious.

5.THE MYTH: SKIN LIGHTENING CREAMS MAKE YOUR SKIN FAIRER

‘Harsh chemical bleaching ingredients such as hydroquinone and mercury and kojic acid can lighten even the darkest of skin tones, but, they do this by totally stripping the skin of its melanin, which is needed to protect the skin from UVA and UVB rays. So whilst the results can be permanent, they are by NO means recommended’, says Athar Iman from Fairness Direct. Skin specialist and scientist, Sujata Jolly says ‘Certain skin lightening ingredients such as hydroquinone, mercury (which are banned in the EU) and kojic acid (banned in Switzerland, Japan and Korea) can lead to permanent, long term damage to the skin and in extreme cases even liver damage. From a purely cosmetic perspective rather than the desired effect of lightening the skin the bleaching agent can actually cause a darkening of the area. This then causes the user to apply more of the product to the skin, hence entering into a vicious cycle, which can eventually lead to ochrinosis – a darkening and thickening of the skin.’ So ladies, think twice before slathering on the creams and do your research on its ingredients. The good news is that there are products that can help you achieve an even complexion without the risk of any side effects. ‘Plant extracts such as willowbark, liquorice, mulberry and Vitamin C in their natural form are all ingredients that do not penetrate the basal layer of the skin so do not inhibit the production of melanin - making them a safe alternative. These natural extracts have been used effectively for centuries to help achieve a clearer and more even complexion’, adds Sujata Jolly.

6.THE MYTH: OILY SKIN DOESN'T NEED A MOISTURISER

The moisturising level of the skin is not related to the sebum amount produced by the sebaceous gland (sweat glands) in the epidermis. The skincare experts at Neutrogena say, “your skin needs moisture to function at its best. Even oily skin can have low moisture levels. That's why it's important to use a moisturiser no matter what your skin condition is”. Choose the correct formulation - oil free, non-comedogenic and water-based are your best bet.

7.THE MYTH: WATERPROOF SUNSCREEN WILL LAST ALL DAY

Dermatologists stress that sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours or immediately after swimming. The term ‘waterproof’ is misleading and was banned by the FDA. These products, that stay put for up to 40-minutes in the water are now more accurately labelled ‘water resistant’.

8.THE MYTH: TEST THE COLOUR OF FOUNDATION ON THE BACK OF YOUR HAND

The colour of the skin on the hands is usually a lot darker than the colour of the skin on our face, mainly due to the fact that they have been exposed to a lot more UV light and a lot less exfoliaton. ‘The best way to test foundation is by drawing stripes on the jaw line and examining them in natural light. The colour that blends in perfectly is your shade’, says make-up artist Nina Haider.

9.THE MYTH: LIP PLUMPERS CAN CHANGE THE SIZE OF YOUR LIPS

The majority of lip plumping sticks and glosses contain ingredients such as cinnamon, chilli and grapefruit that work by stimulating blood flow to the lips causing them to feel tingly and slightly numb. Lips volume may increase for an hour or so, but results are only temporary.

10.THE MYTH: APPLYING TOOTHPASTE ON A SPOT WILL MAKE IT DISSAPEAR

Although it will dry the pimple – fluoride and tartar control ingredients found in toothpastes can actually be quite irritating. Dr Manjit Kaur, Specialist Registrar in Dermatology warns, ‘you need to be careful with this approach as the drying effect of the toothpaste could irritate the skin or result in a skin reaction’. For instant spot banishing, try the bacteria killing Zeno (£129, myzenoeurope.com)

11. THE MYTH: SLEEPING ON A SILK PILLOW PREVENTS WRINKLES

The act of pressing your face into a hard cotton pillow makes your skin crease. As we get older the sleep creases we wake up with take longer to smooth because the amount of collagen and elastic tissue - the skin's spring-back mechanism becomes weaker. Dr David Orentreich, Clinique's Presiding Dermatologist says, ‘It doesn't matter what your pillow case is made from, the only way to prevent sleep creases is by sleeping on your back, so you don't squash your face. Not easy, but you can train yourself with an orthopedic pillow.’

12. THE MYTH: REGULAR TRIMS WILL HELP HAIR TO GROW FASTER

Each hair strand is a thread of dead protein, which means the root of the hair strand has no idea of what is happening at the tip. Trichologist Phillip Kingsley says that ‘there is no scientific or physiological evidence or reason why cutting hair should make it grow faster’. Hair can be compared to canes of bamboo: a long cane bends and flexes easily, but when cut short it is impossible to bend and feels stronger, even though it is the same cane! Similarly with hair: shorter hair feels stronger. Also, when short hair grows longer it is more noticeable than when long hair grows longer. Unfortunately regular trips to the salon won't make your hair grow faster, but regular trimming of straggly, frayed ends can help it look fuller and healthier.

13. THE MYTH: SPLIT ENDS CAN BE REPAIRED

While some conditioners and serums can temporarily 'glue' split ends back together, there is no way to re-attach the hair shaft permanently when the individual layers of cells separate. The only way of getting rid of them altogether is to snip the hair beyond the point of the split.

14. THE MYTH: PLUMPING YOUR MASCARA WAND WILL GET RID OF CLUMPS

Plumping the wand only fills the tube with air making the formula dry out faster and clump more. It's inevitable for the pigment to start clinging to the wand after the initial few applications. Your best solution is to wipe the wand with a paper towel, as opposed to a tissue before each application.

15.THE MYTH: SHAVING CAUSES THICKER REGROWTH

‘There's no evidence that hair grows back thicker after shaving,’ says King Of Shaves chairman, Hiten Dayal. Prickly stubble just feels like coarser regrowth. But exfoliating, then using a moisturising shave prep, helps skin to stay smoother for longer

16. THE MYTH: YOU SHOULDN’T WASH YOUR HAIR DAILY

‘Without a doubt, shampooing is the most effective way to keep hair shiny and healthy,’ says trichologist Philip Kingsley, author of the Hair Bible. ‘If it’s not, you’re either using the wrong product or using it incorrectly. Think about how dirty your face gets by the end of the day, and you take you hair to the same places! You wouldn't dream of not washing or cleansing your face on a daily basis, so why leave out your hair? Frequent shampooing is the single most important way to happy hair days’, says Philip Kingsley. New York dermatologist Dennis Gross adds, ‘If hair seems dry and brittle, then shampoo as needed. But if it looks healthy, there’s no reason to stop.’

17. THE MYTH: CAFFIENE AND CHOCOLATE CAUSE BREAKOUT

Dr Manjit Kaur esays, ‘There is no scientific evidence to suggest that spots are caused by over indulgence in foods such as chocolate or coffee. Some people feel their spots are aggravated by certain foods so it makes sense to avoid them as long as you're still eating a balanced diet.’ The exact cause of acne is unknown, but doctors believe it results from several related factors including excess grease production (sebum) which is often driven by rising hormone levels in teenagers during puberty, hereditary factors, blocking of pores due to a build up of dead skin cells.

WEDDING SEASON OF CHOICE

Summer will never fully be usurped by autumn as the wedding season of choice, but judging by the fierce floral palettes of rich burgundies, smouldering indigos and fiery reds, it’s hardly surprising that an increasing number of brides are choosing the darker months for more visually dramatic celebrations. And you’ve certainly picked the right season for it!
While flowers are primarily the focus on the wedding registry and reception, the autumn and winter flowers are perfect for the re-emerging trend towards traditional weddings, complementing the rich embroidery and warm hues apparent throughout the setting.


With theming and colour co-ordination becoming de rigeur for even the simplest wedding, it’s crucial to pick arrangements that reflect the mood of the weather as well as your wedding. For instance, berries are a wonderful addition to any arrangement because they define your Big Day by its season, creating a poetic impact while remaining fairly inexpensive. It’s easy to get lost in a quagmire of flower names and budgeting, so it’s imperative that you consult your florist before settling on colour palettes.


Silla from Illusion Flowers is an expert on floral theming and advises:

‘Seeing as autumn colour palettes are very similar to traditional colours for Asian weddings, it’s perfect for going back to the classics. And even if you don’t want to go for a traditional wedding, other flowers in similar hues, like orchids and lilies are brilliant for contemporary bouquets and arrangements. Autumn and winter weddings can be just as beautiful, it’s just a question of re-working the themes.’

UPCOMING MUSIC ALBUM

MUSICBOX
HUMAN
Brandy
MAG Rating:***

Brandy, where were you a few months back? At that time, the Top 40 fans among us were so finished kissing a girl and were besieged by some Pussycat Doll atrocity. A frothy confection of pop like this one would have been manna. Unfortunately, it's a few months later, and Human will be the third buy for mainstream-music fans, behind Beyoncé's and Pink's superior, more original albums. Rightly so, since by comparison, Brandy isn't offering much of a rallying cry: ''If you like it then you shoulda put a ring on it'' seriously dusts Brandy's ''I'm only human — forgive me.''
Unsurprisingly (if you've read a tabloid over the past five years), contrition is Human's major theme. She's sorry. She's learned from her mistakes. She's more mature... except where her voice is concerned. The huskiness that defined Brandy's prior work has been replaced by wispier and higher tones. The result is pleasant but far less ambitious than her last CD, 2004's Afrodisiac. Longtime collaborator Rodney Jerkins has crafted some standouts, like ''Piano Man'' (thankfully not a remake), that are hooky enough to combat Early-'90s Midtempo R&B Malaise. First single ''Right Here (Departed)'' is fun but has a touch of that condition — or it did before DJs Bobby Blanco and Miki Moto recently made a kickin' disco remix of it. Sadly, their version isn't included here. Release that and apology accepted.

Miss World 2008 at the 58th international beauty pageant in Johannesburg

Russia's Ksenia Sukhinova, 21, won the title of Miss World 2008 at the 58th international beauty pageant in Johannesburg, the South African Republic, which took place on December 13, 2008, outshining 108 other international beauties and pledging to "help people." The Siberian girl holds the title of the most beautiful girl of the city of Tyumen. She won the Miss Russia contest a year ago.
The second runner up was Gabrielle Walcott of Trinidad and Tobago and the first runner-up was Parvathy Omanakuttan of India.
The 21-year-old blue-eyed, blonde beauty, who declared shortly before her win was announced that being nervous made her "feel stronger," takes over from Zhang Zi Lin of China to become the 58th Miss World.
"I think I can help people and I want to help people and today if I walk away with this crown I will do that," Sukhinova told judges through a translator after being asked why she should be crowned the winner. Hailing from Nizhnevartovsk in the northwest of Siberia, Sukhinova was dressed in a purple gown, with a decorative neckline and flowing skirt. Sukhinova becomes the second Miss Russia to win the global event after Julia Kourochkina took the crown in 1992.
Ksenia Sukhinova devoted her victory to the whole of Russia. "I am very glad to have brought this crown to Russia. I am proud that it is Russia that got the crown and I devote my victory to the whole country and to its every citizen… and to my grandmother," Sukhinova said at a press conference.
The most beautiful girl in the world said that the competition at the pageant was very serious. She also said that she Miss World 2008 Ksenia Sukhinovahoped to improve Russia's international image to show the world that a girl from Russia could personify kindness, beauty and happiness.
When asked who was the first to congratulate her on the victory, Ksenia said that it was her mother and the directors of the Miss Russia beauty pageant.
Ksenia had very good impressions of the South African Republic, where the contest took place. "It is a wonderful country with its traditions and culture. I am glad that the contest took place there, and I would love to visit the country again. We did a safari ride, and it was great fun, we saw rhinoceroses and giraffes," Ksenia said.
When asked about her private life, she said that her heart did not belong to anyone yet. "I was not going to get married long before my victory in the contest," she said. "Everyone wants to know how I am going to spend the prize money. I can only say that I have not received anything yet, so I am not planning anything," Miss World 2008 said.
Sukhinova has shared that she is not sure whether she should continue her career as a model. "It is a difficult question for me now. My biggest plans for the time being are to meet my relatives and friends and see the New Year together," she said.
Sukhinova’s favorite pet is a cat named Shustrik, her favorite movie is Moscow Doesn't Believe in Tears, and her favorite book is Master and Margarita by Mikhail Bulgakov. As for her favorite music artists, Sukhinova named Sting, Madonna and Justin Timberlake.

PREMIERE RAB NE BANA DI JODI

One often cribs about Yash Raj repeatedly casting SRK in similar roles, in film after film. However, this allegation is far from true. Right from Darr to Chak De India, the combination has collaborated on varied subjects. With Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi, they take this association to another level altogether.
Set your eyes anywhere and you see countless unknown faces. In markets, malls, streets, airports, stations, just about everywhere. And everyone who walks this planet has a story to tell. With Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi, Aditya Chopra talks of one such ordinary person. Living in one of those crowded bylanes of Amritsar, his life undergoes a 360 degree change the moment he sets his eyes on a beautiful girl.
Like SRK does a 360 degree turn in the movie, Aditya Chopra too does a complete turn as far as the story is concerned. Seeped in Indian emotions and traditional values and very desi at heart, Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi is a complete departure from the good-looking, picture perfect YRF movies that sport glam bodies parading designer outfits.
Surinder [Shah Rukh Khan], a simple, clean hearted, honest man working for Punjab Power, leads a humdrum life, but the moment he sets his eyes on Taani [Anushka Sharma], his life undergoes a change. She's flamboyant, fun-loving, and vivacious, unlike Surinder. But unforeseen circumstances bring them together.
Director Aditya Chopra chooses a desi plot and weaves a story around an ordinary, middle class couple. The story begins with gusto and the initial scenes between Shah Rukh and Anushka are thoroughly interesting. But the screenplay falters the moment Shah Rukh's character Surinder transforms into Raj and his personality undergoes a sea-change. The first question that strikes you is, why didn't Anushka realize it's him, her husband, not someone else? Sure, he has undergone a complete makeover, but how can you not recognise your husband's voice or appearance? That's a glaring flaw, it's like taking the viewer for granted!
There's a twist in the tale only towards the pre-climax, when Anushka is ready to elope with Raj, her dance partner. The climax, the drama that ensues during the finale of the dance competition, is excellent. Even the end [the honeymoon in Japan] brings a smile to your face.
On the whole, Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi is vey desi at heart. Having said that, you cannot deny the fact that you expect much, much more from Aditya Chopra.

FASHION ACCESSORY

Fashion accessories are decorative items that supplement one's garment, such as jewelry, gloves, handbags, hats, belts, scarves, watches, sunglasses, pins, stockings, bow tie, leg warmer, leggings, necktie, suspenders, and tights.

Accessories add color, style and class to an outfit, and create a certain look, but they may also have practical functions. Handbags are for carrying, hats protect the face from weather elements, and gloves keep the hands warm.

Many accessories are produced by clothing design companies. However, there has been an increase in individuals creating their own brand name by designing and making their own label of accessories.

Accessories may be used as external visual symbols of religious or cultural affiliation: Crucifixes, Jewish stars, Islamic headscarves, skullcaps and turbans are common examples. Designer labels on accessories are perceived as an indicator of social status.

Accessories are also available in the form of bracelets, necklaces and earring.
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CLOTHING

The habit of people continually changing the style of clothing worn, which is now worldwide, at least among urban populations, is generally held by historians to be a distinctively Western one.[dubious – discuss] At other periods in Ancient Rome and other cultures changes in costume occurred, often at times of economic or social change, but then a long period without large changes followed. In 8th century Cordoba, Spain, Ziryab, a famous musician - a star in modern terms - is said to have introduced sophisticated clothing styles based on seasonal and daily timings from his native Baghdad and his own inspiration.
English caricature of Tippies of 1796

The beginnings of the habit in Europe of continual and increasingly rapid change in styles can be fairly clearly dated to the middle of the 14th century, to which historians including James Laver and Fernand Braudel date the start of Western fashion in clothing.[2][3] The most dramatic manifestation was a sudden drastic shortening and tightening of the male over-garment, from calf-length to barely covering the buttocks, sometimes accompanied with stuffing on the chest to look bigger. This created the distinctive Western male outline of a tailored top worn over leggings or trousers which is still with us today.
Marie Antoinette was a major fashion icon during the late 18th century.

The pace of change accelerated considerably in the following century, and women and men's fashion, especially in the dressing and adorning of the hair, became equally complex and changing. Art historians are therefore able to use fashion in dating images with increasing confidence and precision, often within five years in the case of 15th century images. Initially changes in fashion led to a fragmentation of what had previously been very similar styles of dressing across the upper classes of Europe, and the development of distinctive national styles, which remained very different until a counter-movement in the 17th to 18th centuries imposed similar styles once again, finally those from Ancien Régime in France.[3]:317-24 Though fashion was always led by the rich, the increasing affluence of early modern Europe led to the bourgeoisie and even peasants following trends at a distance sometimes uncomfortably close for the elites - a factor Braudel regards as one of the main motors of changing fashion.[3]:313-15

The fashions of the West are generally unparalleled either in antiquity or in the other great civilizations of the world. Early Western travellers, whether to Persia, Turkey, Japan or China frequently remark on the absence of changes in fashion there, and observers from these other cultures comment on the unseemly pace of Western fashion, which many felt suggested an instability and lack of order in Western culture. The Japanese Shogun's secretary boasted (not completely accurately) to a Spanish visitor in 1609 that Japanese clothing had not changed in over a thousand years.[3]:312-3 :323 However in Ming China, for example, there is considerable evidence for rapidly changing fashions in Chinese clothing,[4]
Albrecht Dürer's drawing contrasts a well turned out bourgeoise from Nuremberg (left) with her counterpart from Venice, in. The Venetian lady's high chopines make her taller.

Ten 16th century portraits of German or Italian gentlemen may show ten entirely different hats, and at this period national differences were at their most pronounced, as Albrecht Dürer recorded in his actual or composite contrast of Nuremberg and Venetian fashions at the close of the 15th century (illustration, right). The "Spanish style" of the end of the century began the move back to synchronicity among upper-class Europeans, and after a struggle in the mid 17th century, French styles decisively took over leadership, a process completed in the 18th century.[3]:317-21

Though colors and patterns of textiles changed from year to year,[5] the cut of a gentleman's coat and the length of his waistcoat, or the pattern to which a lady's dress was cut changed more slowly. Men's fashions largely derived from military models, and changes in a European male silhouette are galvanized in theatres of European war, where gentleman officers had opportunities to make notes of foreign styles: an example is the "Steinkirk" cravat or necktie.

The pace of change picked up in the 1780s with the increased publication of French engravings that showed the latest Paris styles; though there had been distribution of dressed dolls from France as patterns since the 16th century, and Abraham Bosse had produced engravings of fashion from the 1620s. By 1800, all Western Europeans were dressing alike (or thought they were): local variation became first a sign of provincial culture, and then a badge of the conservative peasant.[6]

Although tailors and dressmakers were no doubt responsible for many innovations before, and the textile industry certainly led many trends, the history of fashion design is normally taken to date from 1858, when the English-born Charles Frederick Worth opened the first true haute couture house in Paris. Since then the professional designer has become a progressively more dominant figure, despite the origins of many fashions in street fashion.

Modern Westerners have a wide choice available in the selection of their clothes. What a person chooses to wear can reflect that person's personality or likes. When people who have cultural status start to wear new or different clothes a fashion trend may start. People who like or respect them may start to wear clothes of a similar style.

Fashions may vary considerably within a society according to age, social class, generation, occupation sexual orientation, and geography as well as over time. If, for example, an older person dresses according to the fashion of young people, he or she may look ridiculous in the eyes of both young and older people. The terms fashionista or fashion victim refer to someone who slavishly follows the current fashions. A new term originated in the USA during the economic difficulties of 2008: recessionista combining the words recession and fashionista. Recessionista may be defined as: a person who strives to remain fashionable on a minimal budget.[7] [8]

One can regard the system of sporting various fashions as a fashion language incorporating various fashion statements using a grammar of fashion. (Compare some of the work of Roland Barthes.)

Fashion

Fashion- exemplifies the appearances of clothing, but fashion can also include beautiful accessories. There are many fabrics that can be put together to make professional styles and display a designer's individuality, which may catch the eye and delight potential buyers. Many fashions are popular in many cultures at any given time. Some of the high style Couture designs may change quickly or flash-out, and that brings the "fashion" in the street sense (common level), which is the latest version of these styles, change rapidly also. Instinctive in the capture of people's minds is the idea, that the course of design and fashion will change quicker and more rapidly, than the culture as a whole.

The terms "fashionable" and "unfashionable" are employed to describe whether someone or something fits in with the current or even not so current, popular mode of expression. The term "fashion" is frequently used in a positive sense, as a synonym for glamour, beauty and style. In this sense, fashions are a sort of communal art, through which a culture examines its notions of beauty and goodness. The term "fashion" is also sometimes used in a negative sense, as a synonym for fads and trends, and materialism. A number of cities are recognized as global fashion centers and are recognized for their fashion weeks, where designers exhibit their new clothing collections to audiences. These cities are Paris, Milan, New York, and London. Other cities, mainly Los Angeles, Berlin, Tokyo, Rome, Miami, Hong Kong, São Paulo, Sydney, Barcelona, Amsterdam, Madrid, Montreal, Mumbai, Vienna, Auckland, Moscow, New Delhi, San Juan, and Dubai also hold fashion weeks and are better recognized every year.

STYLISH JEWLERY

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