Book Review: Private India

Book Review: Private India

About the book: When Santosh Wagh isn’t struggling out of a bottle of whisky he’s head of Private India, the Mumbai branch of the world’s finest PI agency.

In a city of over thirteen million he has his work cut out at the best of times. But now someone is killing women – seemingly unconnected women murdered in a chilling ritual, with strange objects placed carefully at their death scenes.

Book Review: Private India

As Santosh and his team race to find the killer, an even greater danger faces Private India – a danger that could threaten the lives of thousands of innocent Mumbai citizens.

Gist: When a series of seemingly unconnected murders rock the city of Mumbai with the macabre rituals and artefacts found around the corpses, Private India, a leading investigation agency takes the case. Santosh Wagh, the head of the organization, has only one mission. He needs to stop the killers before they strike again. However, in a city of over 13 million people, he finds that the clock is ticking too fast. He finds himself pitted against underworld dons and a Godman who isn’t what he seems. However, the worst is yet to come and Private India itself may be threatened with a revelation that could destroy the entire organization.

MRP: Rs.350/- (Rs.190/- HERE)

Private India is co-authored by James Patterson and Ashwin Sanghi.

About the Authors

Ashwin Sanghi is an Indian writer and entrepreneur. He has also written: Chanakya’s Chant and The Krishna Key. He is also known by his pseudonym: Shawn Haigins.

James Patterson is a bestselling American writer. He is best known for Along Came a Spider, Jack & Jill, When the Wind Blows and Step on a Crack among over 100 others.

Don’t go by the thickness or size of the book, the font is big and you can easily finish the book in 1-2 days if you get too engrossed, to max 3-4 days.

Its actually quite engrossing, once you get into the story. Nice twists and turns in the plot.

Private India is the most hi-tech and reputed Indian private detective agency headed by the inimitable Santosh Wagh and it runs as a branch of ‘Private Worldwide’ detective organization, the one and only of its kind.

You do feel at times that there are too many characters to remember, though each have their part to play. I personally like the character of Nisha Gandhe.

The story revolves around Mumbai, from Colaba Causeway to Dharavi, it portrays a picture of Mumbai less known to people.

I liked the fact that the plot was fast paced, a trait of James Patterson. And also that the plot grips you till the end and does not give out the mystery anywhere. But, in the middle it does get a little loose. It could have been more gripping throughout.

Rating: 3.5/5

Have you read James Patterson/Ashwin Sanghi’s Private India yet ?

P.S: This review is a part of the biggest Book Review Program for Indian Bloggers. Participate now to get free books!

Everyday Skincare & Makeup Products on a Budget

Everyday Skincare & Makeup Products on a Budget

Hey everyone,

So as many of you know that I am nominated for the Elle Beauty Awards ‘Blogger of the Year’ 2014, we had an interesting challenge in round 2.

We had to buy skincare and makeup products which we use on an everyday basis i.e our ‘daily’ ‘face’ stuff within the budget of Rs.5000/-

And since we had to buy only from Jabong and from the brands available on the site, it added up to the challenge 🙂

This is the perfect kit for you, if you are in college and surviving on pocket money and don’t have big bucks to spend on luxury products. Spending big bucks is not even required actually, you can create a nice kit for yourself within this budget.

For brides to be, this also makes a part of my Bridal Diaries. If you are someone who was never into skincare and makeup, then this kit would work for you too. Or if you want to buy stuff for your trousseau within the budget of Rs.5000/-

I  have linked products to their reviews which I have already reviewed on my blog before or have given my 2 cents here on products I have used, but not reviewed yet.

So here we go..

1. Ponds White beauty Naturals Spot Less lightening Cream- Rs199 for 50g

Reason: Super light in texture with no greasiness. Has camellia (Green Tea) leaf extract, niacinmide and tocopheryl acetate which help in fading spots and regeneration of skin cells. Added bonus: SPF (titanium dioxide aluminum hydroxide stearic acid). This can be your perfect affordable daily moisturizer.

2. VICHY Normaderm 3-In-1 Cleanser – Rs.450/- for 50ml

Reason: A unique combination of Salicylic acid, Glycolic acid and 25% Clay with a soothing agent. Use it as a cleanser/face wash or a scrub or apply a thin layer as a mask. The blend of salicylic acid and clay is perfect for oily skin and prevents from breakouts. Glycolic acid helps in mild exfoliation. I won’t recommend it using everyday. For everyday use, a mild cleanser like the Auravedic Saffron Almond one we selected, is good. But its perfect to use for a weekly scrub/face pack. It dries quickly too, not taking too much of your time. If you use it weekly, its going to last long and turns economical for its multiple uses.

3. VLCC Lip Balm Strawberry- Rs.125 for 10g

Reason : Heals chapped lips. Smells nice (Strawberry fragrance). Gives a pretty pink tint.Added bonus: SPF10

4. L’Oreal Paris Uv Perfect Aqua Essence Sunscreen Moisturiser- Rs.475/- fro 30ml (Review HERE)

Reason: A Sunscreen with good SPF protection is a must. Whether you are in your teens or in your 30’s, you need to protect your skin from the sun’s rays. L’Oreal Paris UV Perfect Aqua Essence has SPF 30 PA+++ UVB UVA protection with a PPD of 15.5. It also has Advanced Mexoryl XL Filters (only found in L’Oreal Paris sunscreens- this and Vichy Capital Soleil which is on the expensive side) that protect against broad spectrum UVA/UVB rays, Adenosine that repairs deep skin damage and fights wrinkles, and Vitamin E that helps fight against free radicals and external stress. It also hydrates and moisturizes the skin. Best part: It somewhat protects skin from tanning too.

5. Forest Essentials Facial Tonic Pure Rose Water Facial Mist- Rs.575 for 100ml

Reason: Natural toner. 100% Steam Distilled Rose Water. Alcohol based toners rip the moisture from the skin. One should go for alcohol free toners as much as possible. It cools, soothes and moisturizes the skin. You can also carry it along in your bag. (You need one in the Mumbai heat especially in summers!)

6.Biotique Bio Almond Oil Soothing Face Eye Make Up Cleanser – Rs.149 for 120 Ml

Reason: It’s a blend of almond, castor, sunflower and few other oils. Oils are always the best makeup remover one can use. It melts off toughest of your waterproof mascara. No stinging or burning. One of the pretty decent and affordable makeup removers in the market.

7. Maybelline Colossal Kajal 12 Hour Smudge Resistant – Rs. 175 (Review HERE)

Reason: One of the deepest and most pigmented rich black kajals in India right now. It stays whole day and hardly smudges. I recommend this to everyone all the time. Does’nt even hurt the pocket at 175. Best budget buy for college girls too. I guess most of us love our kajal and lip balms and swear by it everyday whether you in college or working. This is definitely a must have!

8. Maybelline Vex Falsies Waterproof Mascara- Rs.425

Reason: Who has the time and patience to apply falsies and remove them everyday ?! But we still want those fluttery, long lashes right ? Well, look no further. Maybelline Falsies Mascara is the answer. With 2 coats of this, you get a false lash effect! I mean it. Do try it for yourself. And at 425 if you get killer long lashes, it does not hurt, right ? :p

9. Maybelline Hyper Sharp Liner- Rs.425 (Review HERE)

Reason : No reasons are enough for this baby. Its my favourite liner ever. Pigmented. Stays long. Perfect stiff tip. And the hypersharp tip gives the thinnest most defined lines to more thicker wings. It also does not dry up quickly and works as good as new for a long long time.

10. Maybelline Color Sensational Mirrored Mauve High Shine Lip Gloss- Rs.350 for 5ml (Review HERE and HERE)

Reason: Pigmented, High shine, Affordable, Good qty, Non Shimmery, Prettiest Nude Mauve shade ever. This is bang on for your everyday wear whether for work or a day out with your girlfriends.

11.Maybelline Cheeky Glow Blush- Fresh Coral- Rs.275 (Review HERE)

Reason: If you have to include one affordable blush in your kit, it has to be Maybelline Cheeky Glow. Its matte, smooth, pigmented and long staying. 7g of quantity would last for a long time. Fresh Coral is a warm coral pink and gives that ‘just out of the gym’ healthy pink flush. One of the best budget blushes in India.

12. Street Wear Color Rich Perfection Compact Powder- Rs.160 for 7g

Reason: Cute packaging again. Provides medium coverage and controls oil and shine. Thoughtful hygienic packaging, the separator in between prevents the foam applicator from getting dirty. No more expectations at this price and quantity. Again a perfect budget everyday compact.

13. Street Wear Color Rich 11-Pink Passion Lipstick- Rs.180 for 4.2g

Reason : Street Wear has nailed it with this latest Color Rich Range and these Ultra Moist lipsticks are the best in the collection. Cute packaging. Semi matte texture, Long staying power, Economical price and quantity. A perfect bright pink shade to perk up your evenings or weekends. Psstt: It’s a dupe of MAC Flat Out Fabulous 😀 I am sure you want this in your kit! Plus it won’t pinch your pocket.

14. Ponds White Beauty Blemish Balm Cream- Rs.125/- for 18G

Reason: A BB Cream that also acts as a moisturizer and sunscreen and gives amazing coverage! Gimme! I use it everyday. Its one of my favourite BB creams out of the lot in the market right now. It has Vitamin B3, Vitamin E and Allantoin which helps against pigmentation and heals the old scars/spots faster. Has SPF30PA++. The shade suits me perfectly and the coverage is medium, more than any other BB creams. Stays put the whole day. The silicones in it make it work as an eye shadow primer too!! Beat that. And all for this price is fantastic.

15. & 16. Auravedic Revitalizing Face Care- Rs.325 for a combo of 2 products (Pulpy Saffron Almond Face wash and Pure Aloe Vera Gel) (Review HERE and HERE)

Reason: Both the products separately cost you a little more, so buying a combo means savings 😉 The Radiance by Nature is one of the best face washes I have personally tried and recommend. Its made up of natural ingredients and a blend of essential oils. No SLS or parabens. Chemical and color free. Cleanses skin well leaving no dryness or stretchiness. There is a neem and tea tree variant for oily skin and a rose and saffron variant for dry skin. And 50g lasts really long. Total value for money.

Pure Aloe Vera Gel is packed with green tea and pomegranate extracts and a blend of essential oils again like lemon, avocado, grapeseed, olive. Its super cooling and gel like in texture. Smells amazing. Keep it in the fridge in the summers and apply it whenever your skin feels dehydrated or thirsty. I am sure you will love this refreshing cold aloe gel in the harsh summers. No preservatives and chemicals. Also recommended to be used as a hair styling/shaving gel. I personally use it post waxing/threading coz it instantly soothes and reduces the redness on the skin. Quite a multi tasker this is!

17. Auravedic Almond & Grapeseed Night Repair Cream- Rs.350 for 100g

Reason: Skin cells are the most active and repair itself during the night time. The whole regeneration of new skin cells takes place during night. A rich, heavy night cream with some essential nutrients is a must have. It nourishes your skin inside out and also helps delay signs of ageing. This rich night cream has almond butter, grapefruit oil and few other essential oils. Auravedic has no SLS,parabens or chemicals. And you need just a tiny bit, so 100g would last you really long. But investing in a good night cream is a must. It is as important as a sunscreen.

18. Star’s Cosmetics Bronze-2 Pressed Eye Shadow Rs.195/- for 1.66G

Reason: Even if you are not a daily eyeshadow person, you need one bronze/gold shadow in your kit. Indian weddings are when you will need it the most. Or just smoke it out with a black kohl base for a night out. Instant glam!

Overall View: I think it was an interesting challenge. I included everything necessary from skin care to makeup used in day to day life. (and covering weekends/occasions too) A total of 18 products,and also saved on some bucks (Though 27 :D)

Skin care: Face wash, Toner ( Facial Mist), Moisturizer, Sunscreen, Lip Balm, Makeup Remover, Night Cream, 3 in 1 (Cleanser, Scrub, Mask) for your weekly pampering, Pure Aloe Vera Gel for shaving/post waxing,etc.

Makeup: BB Cream, Compact Powder, Lipstick, Lip Gloss, Blush, Kohl Pencil, Liquid Pen Eyeliner, Mascara, Eye shadow.

I have not included nail paints, shower gel,shampoo, conditioner, hair serum/oils coz it was ‘daily face’. You need to add those too which will be another 750 bucks approximately.

I hope you liked my kit. If you did, I would love for you to vote for me HERE. Just click on the heart under my name ‘Bhumika Thakkar’ and it will turn red 🙂 Or you can tweet to @elleindia with the hashtag #EBA2014. Thanks in advance.

 What all would you include in your kit within the budget of Rs.5000 ?

Lakme Absolute Gel Addict Liner Vine Yard Review, Swatches

Lakme Absolute Gel Addict Liner Vine Yard Review, Swatches

What the Company claims: Soft gel texture, easy to a apply with a small brush attached with cap.

KEY FEATURES:

Professional finish gel liner
Very intense, vibrant color
Smudge proof and water proof
Long lasting formula
Recommended by Lakmé’s makeup experts

MRP: Rs.800/- for 2.3g

Shades Available:

  • Must Have (Black)
  • Deep Sea
  • Tempting Teal
  • Metallic Bronze
  • Grey Ash
  • White Delight
  • Vine Yard

Lakme Absolute Gel Addict Liners are a new launch in the Lakme Absolute range and were a part of the Lakme Fashion Week Winter/Festive 2014 Collection designed by the bridal team of Cory Walia and Manish Malhotra.

Available in 7 shades, they come in a small cute tub form with an extended handle and a brush within the handle. No need to carry a separate brush now. (or worry about loosing it/misplacing which happens most of the time :p)

Texture wise, its more like a mousse. Very very creamy and super light. It will get digged in with just a single dip of the brush. It goes on smooth too. Very long lasting and smudge proof, even the swatch on my hand did not budge. You will need a good makeup remover to remove this completely.

It stays on for a good 7-8 hours, and then starts fading in bits, but does not go away completely.

My only issue was the shade. This particular shade Vine Yard needed layering. I have to go over it 2-3 times for the eyeliner to show up, on my eyes, as it waters down a little, when applied on the eyes.

I have seen the swatches of all the shades and that’s not the case with all the shades. Most of them are pretty pigmented and bright and show up on the eyes in one swipe. I think its only Vine Yard and probably Grey Ash that needs layering.

The shade Vine Yard looks more purple in the tub, but it comes up as a bluish purple with gold shimmer.

Must Have (Black), Bronze, Teal and Deep Sea are the most pigmented. I loved the bronze, it looks gorgeous. Definitely trying that next.

Its slightly over priced too, like all other products in the Lakme Absolute range. I feel it could have been priced at around Rs.600-650/- max.

Overall, its super creamy in texture,easy to use and long staying. Other shades in this range are super pigmented too. Recommended.

Rating:

Quality: 3.75/5
Value for money: 3.5/5
Availability: 4/5

Overall Rating: 3.5/5

Would I buy it again: Yes

Have you tried the new Lakme Absolute Gel Addict Liner ?

P.S: Gifted by brand. Honest Review

Sleek MakeUP Bare Skin Foundation Review, Swatches

Sleek MakeUP Bare Skin Foundation Review, Swatches

What the Company claims: This unique super-light foundation gives skin a barely-there no makeup feel, whilst delivering a beautifully even and natural flawless finish. .

Provides light to medium, buildable coverage
Conceals blemishes and imperfections
Innovative formula evens out skin tone
Advanced moisturising properties help to keep skin nourished
Light base feels weightless, allowing skin to breathe
Instantly enhances and illuminates skin

MRP: $13.49 for 30ml

Directions: Blend smoothly and evenly with your fingertips or a foundation brush, working outwards from the centre of your face.

Ingredients: Paraffin oil, Isooctyl palmitate, Isododecane, Beeswax, Sorbitan sesquioleate, Cetyl PEG/PPG-10/1 dimethicone, Titanium Dioxide, Magnesium stearate, Dimethicone, Sodium chloride, Iron OxidesCI77491,77492,77499, Phenoxyethanol, Methylistohiazolinone

Shades Available: 12

I have the shades Barley and Praline.

It comes in a glass square bottle packaging with a black cap and a black pump dispensor. Since it is glass, not very travel friendly and slightly heavy too.

I like the fact that it comes in 12 shades and cater to every skin tone possible from lightest to darkest. Its thick and creamy unlike your runny liquid foundation.

It gives medium coverage, even though buildable, wont give that complete flawless coverage hiding your marks/scars. Its good for everyday use, like a tinted moisturiser. And gives that dewy, glowing finish. It stays for 3-4 hours and then starts getting shiny on the T-zone since its quite rich. Oily/combination skin needs powder touch up after 3-4 hours.

Barley is  light for me and Praline is dark, so I mix the both and get the perfect shade.I think Bamboo or Creme Caramel would suit my NC37 skin tone well.

Here it is on me. I have mixed both the shades here.

I would recommend this for people with dry skin looking for a dewy finish foundation and those who do not need much coverage.

Rating: 3.5/5

You can buy it HERE.

Have you tried the Sleek MakeUP Bare Skin Foundation ?

P.S: PR Sample. Honest Review

OOTD: Airport Travel/Friday Dressing with One Pants

OOTD: Airport Travel/Friday Dressing with One Pants

Hey guys,

I am back with an OOTD after a long long time. Remember my Goa trip with Blogadda last month ? (See HERE) I am going to Goa again tom early early morning with a bunch of friends. Yay! Can’t wait 😀 Probably my last trip as ‘single’ with friends, so kind of bachelorette too. (Though we have guys along :/ But its ok as long as we will be having fun!!) (P.S: Follow me on Instagram HERE to see the pics from Goa ;))

So, this is what I wore to the airport last time. A basic brown floral pants which are thick and warm. I paired them with a basic white Tommy Hilfiger tee, blue loafers, pearl studs and a Daniel Wellington watch. I also had my reliable black Marks & Spencer sweatshirt along to keep me warm during the flight. Keeping it simple is the best when you are travelling.

Some tips to keep in mind for airport travel dressing:

  • Wear longer tees/tunics. You may have your hand luggage or need to bend, etc. Keep it long and comfortable.
  • Wear closed loafers/ballets/brogues/shoes/boots. My feet get terribly cold and if it is the same with you, better keep them covered.
  • Always have a scarf/jacket/sweatshirt out and handy.
  • Wear minimal accessories. Airport is not the place to show off your statement pieces.
  • Wear comfortable denims/tracks/pants. No skinny or tight bottoms.
  • Carry a good big tote and don’t forget the basic stuff like lip balm, hand cream, moisturizer, face mist, sanitizer, etc. in the bag.

I guess ya, you are good to go, wearing some basic, comfortable outfit.

I converted the same pants into a more semi formal Friday wear, by replacing the casual white tee with a linen white shirt and tucking it in and my favourite black bag.

Some tips to keep in mind for Friday dressing at work:

  • So casuals on Friday does not mean shorts, bodycon dresses, etc. coz its still a work place after all. Stick to denims in basic blue and black.
  • White/Black shirts work well for semi formal Fridays
  • Again not too many statement pieces or accessories. You are not there to seek attention and neither would it be comfortable to work with any heavy accessories.
  • Blazers look super chic for semi formal wear
  • Monochromes/Neutrals/Blues look good.
  • Sheath/Wrap dress in neutral colors also looks perfect for Fridays. Sometimes on all days coz its formal too, depending on the cuts/design/color and the work place environment.

Outfit 1:

Tee: Tommy Hilfiger
Pants: American Swan
Watch: Daniel Wellington (You can win one HERE. I have a giveaway going on where you can win one of the Daniel Wellington watches of your choice!)
Earrings: Aldo

Outfit 2:

Shirt: Marks & Spencer
Bag: Romwe

That’s it guys! I hope you liked the tips. Do let me know what do you wear on Fridays at work in the comments below.

ZA True White Cleansing Foam, Toner, Night Cream Review

ZA True White Cleansing Foam, Toner, Night Cream Review

Hey guys,

I had reviewed my favourite moisturizer these days HERE. i.e ZA True White Day Protector. I have been trying the cleansing foam, toner and night cream from the same range since quite some time and would be reviewing those today.

About the ZA range by Shiseido : ZA (pronounced as zi:ei) True White features three best whitening ingredients –Revolutionary 4MSK Formula penetrates deep within the skin to diminish the formation of excessive melanin, reduce blemishes & dark spots that are visible on the surface giving an even-toned radiance.

Vitamin C Complex with a potent combination of APM (Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate) and VC-IP (Tetrahexydecyl Ascorbate) lightens the deep rooted melanin pigments to restore skin’s translucence.

The range is enriched with exclusive SPA ingredients like Natural Spring Water from the foothills of Mount Cazzaro in Tuscany, Italy, Trehalose and White Lily extract to give unparalleled moisture to the skin. Its Prism Enhancer System removes unwanted dead corneal cells and allows for maximum diffusion of light on the skin’s surface making it radiant with brightness.

ZA True White Cleansing Foam

What the Company claims: A whitening cleansing foam that provides essential care for moisturized translucent skin.

How to: Squeeze a small amount onto palm and work into a lather using cool or lukewarm water. Gently massage over face in circular motion. Rinse thoroughly.

Ingredients:

MRP: Rs.349/- for 100g (Available for Rs.339/- HERE)

It comes with a flip cap packaging. It is the creamiest face wash I have ever seen or used, like literal cream! It has small brown granules which help in light exfoliation and not harsh. It cleanses well and even removes your basic makeup.

Only issue being, I find it slightly drying, though thats the case with most cream based face washes. I generally like gel based ones for the same reason. But still it was the least drying and the most creamy cream based face wash. I would not recommend it for dry skin, unless you are used to cream based face washes. But would work great with oily combination skin, with some moisturizer above it, of course.

Rating: 3.75/5

ZA True White Toner

What the Company claims: A whitening toner for moisturized translucent skin.

How to: Smooth an appropriate amount over face with hand or cotton pad after cleansing.

Ingredients:

MRP: Rs.699/- for 150ml

Its a runny watery liquid, has a soft floral smell and does not dry out the skin even though it has alcohol.

I am not much of a toner person. I know people always recommend the CTM routine, but I am more into facial mists. Toner is not really my thing. Though it helps in cleaning and tightening pores,etc. I have not seen any major difference with/without toners on my skin. Or may be I am never regular enough with toners.

I definitely prefer alcohol free toners, as alcohol totally rips the moisture from the skin. There are not many options in India as far as good alcohol free toners are concerned. If you are into the CTM routine and tone regularly and are ok with toners having alcohol, do give this a try. I did not see too much of a difference though. Might work more for people with oily skin.

Rating: 3/5

ZA True White Night Cream

What the Company claims: This whitening Night Cream works hard while you are fast asleep. Gives high Whitening effect by diminishing melanisation, dark sports, blemish marks and patchiness to reveal translucent, clear skin; and Moisturizing effect by removing excess surface cells, while deeply hydrating skin from inside-out.

How to use: Smooth an appropriate amount over face with fingers after toner. Apply several dots on the face and spread evenly from the centre of the face outwards.

MRP: Rs.999/- for 40g

It comes in jar packaging like the ZA True White Day Cream. It has a gel like texture and is water based. It gets completely absorbed into the skin and there is no greasiness with this.

You don’t even need too much product, but just a pea sized amount. This will best suit people with oily skin. If you have dry skin and prefer light creams, then you will like it. But if you love heavy rich creams at night, this won’t be enough in terms of moisturization. I like water based creams especially in summers. Though at times I prefer richer ones when I feel my skin looks dry and needs hydration and moisture.

I did not find it deeply hydrating as claimed but it did help in healing a few acne spots faster. Worth a try.

Rating: 3.5/5

My favourite from the ZA Range is still the True White Day Protector, followed by the Cleansing Foam, Night Cream and Toner.

Have you tried the ZA skincare range ? If yes, what is your favourite ? If no, what would you like to try first ?

P.S: PR Samples. Honest Review.

International Giveaway: Win a Daniel Wellington Watch

International Giveaway: Win a Daniel Wellington Watch

Yes, you heard it right. A Daniel Wellington watch of your choice! Is’nt that amazing ?!

About Daniel Wellington: The story behind Daniel Wellington begins with a trip half way around the globe where Filip Tysander, the founder of Daniel Wellington, met an intriguing gentleman from the British Isles. The man had the inspiring ability to be gentlemanly but still relaxed and unpretentious. He had an impeccable style, and loved to wear his watches on old weathered NATO straps. His name? Well, Daniel Wellington, of course..

The “preppy” trend is bigger than ever before. And while there are many big players in the fashion industry that cater to preppy needs, such as Ralph Lauren, Gant and Brooks Brothers, we felt that there was an empty space in the watch market. There was something missing.

We believe that Daniel Wellington fills that gap. Our vision is that when someone thinks of a preppy dressed person, he or she is wearing a Daniel Wellington watch.

Slowly but surely, a beautiful watch emerged. It was thin, refined and perfectly round. It was minimalistic and didn’t have too many details. We believe that the traditional, yet crisp design blends together perfectly with the colourful NATO strap and will appeal to almost everyone with a sense for classic and timeless design.

The straps themselves are an important part of the watch. NATO straps originate from the British navy, where divers would use the strong nylon straps over their wet suits. Even though they were originally made to avoid rust, we love the look and versatility of them. That’s why we wanted to create a line of different straps with different colours and patterns – but all with a strong bond to the British Isles.

Sean Connery, another big fan of the NATO strap, wore one in the James Bond movie “Goldfinger”. Need we say more?

The Daniel Wellington watch is suitable for every occasion. Regardless if you’re attending a black tie event, playing a game of tennis or enjoying a sunny day at the beach club – the Daniel Wellington is a beautiful companion.

Not only that, but with interchangeable straps you can have a different watch for every day of the week.

Daniel Wellington Watches range from $135 to $229. They have some super classy designs. I personally love each of them. And once you own a watch, you only need to buy straps then, since they are all interchangeable. They have dials in gold, silver, rose gold. My personal favourite is rose gold <3

I owned a Classic Southampton Lady, which I have shown in many of my outfit posts here. And the recent additions are Classic St.Andrews Lady and an strap for my Classic Southampton Lady dial.

This is the first giveaway I am conducting that is open for men as well. Its open both for men and women and worldwide. So, basically anyone can participate. Its open for all.

Rules you need to follow:

1.  Like Daniel Wellington on Facebook and follow us on Instagram (@danielwellingtonwatches)

2. Like our page on facebook and follow me on Instagram.

3. Follow me on twitter and tweet about the giveaway.

4. Comment below this post,a link to the Daniel Wellington watch (from www.danielwellington.com) you like the most and want to win.

Some other optional rules. You can enter in the Rafflecopter widget below.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

The giveaway starts today and ends on 28th September.

Good Luck 🙂

The Mumbai Bride Diaries: 3 Months to Go!

The Mumbai Bride Diaries: 3 Months to Go!

Hey guys,

If you are new to my blog, check out all the bridal diaries posts and updates HERE.

I wanted to update you all with a 4 months remaining post and what all I am done with, from the things which were pending in my 6 months post HERE, but I have no idea where time is flying! Like literally flying.

So ya, exactly 3 months to go now. I still can’t believe it!

Things Done from the ‘things I had to do’ mentioned in the 6 months post 😀

  • Done with most of my trousseau shopping. Rushing to the tailors and all these days.
  • Got my gharchoda from Khatri and panetar i.e the wedding sarees. Yes, we need to wear two together.
  • Nothing on the weight front yet :/ God, I just have 3 months and I have’nt started with anything yet.
  • Done with the honeymoon bookings
  • Done with the photographer and videographer bookings
  • Bangles and Dupatta are pending. I got the white chooda part though.
  • Got a nice sela with paithani work from Ratanshi Kheraj. The entire work comes on the front when the saree is worn Gujurati style.
  • Yet to find a nice gown for the DJ
  • Done with the gold and diamond jewellery shopping too.

I buy my diamonds from Manubhai Jewellers in Mumbai. I think they are the best in Mumbai when it comes to diamonds and the designs they have are more than any other store in Mumbai.

In addition, I got some nice golden leg thongs (the one which are tied up like anklets but connect to the second toe like haathphool) and a pretty rose gold clutch from the World Trade Center exhibition. I am planning to wear the leg thongs during the wedding. Also, I got nice gold Inc.5 weddingey shoes.

Also bought sarees and dresses and few dresses from the boy’s side too. Few are semi stitched, so have to get them stitched. Got one white and pink pretty chaniya choli. Even that was semi stitched, have already given that for stitching.

Next week, going to Gaurang, the famous guy who designs and stitches designer blouses for gharchoda since I don’t know how many years. (Pink Lady in Ghatkopar) I have heard a lot about him. I would be getting my morning mandva sela and gharchoda blouse designed by him.

I stocked on some basic lingerie during the Marks & Spencer sale. Have to get a few more things. You must have seen the bikini and chemise I got HERE. Also have some stuff from La Senza (Love this blue one from the Show Off Collection..my first La Senza :p ). Planning to buy a few more things like a multi way bra, pasties, etc.,you know how the backless and deep back cholis,etc are.

I know I have to do a bridal makeup artists and photographers in Mumbai post since a long time. I will definitely do it, caught up with a lot of things right now.

Also, yours truly is nominated for the ELLE Beauty Awards Blogger of the Year 2014. Our first challenge was a braided look. If you can please spare a second to vote me HERE, I did be thankful 🙂

More updates soon! Follow me on twitter HERE or on Instagram HERE for more rants.

Garnier Fructis Triple Nutrition Shampoo,Conditioner Review

Garnier Fructis Triple Nutrition Shampoo,Conditioner Review

What the Company claims: Garnier Fructis Triple Nutrition Range:  Enriched with the goodness of oils and fruit  vitamins,  Triple Nutrition nourishes and strengthens* the hair  from scalp,  through lengths to tips, leaving hair strong, nourished, shiny and manageable. This range has been specially developed for Indian women and has an exquisite fragrance. The conditioner can be applied on hair and scalp.

Garnier Fructis Triple Nutrition Strengthening Shampoo: Available in 80 ml for MRP Rs. 69, 175 ml for MRP Rs. 135, 340 ml for MRP Rs. 230, sachet:6.5ml for MRP Rs.3

 

Shampoo Ingredients:

Garnier Fructis Triple Nutrition Strengthening Conditioner: Available in 80 ml for MRP Rs. 70, 175 ml for MRP Rs. 135,sachet: 7.5ml for MRP Rs.4 

Conditioner Ingredients:

Recently Alia Bhatt,being the new Garnier Fructis Brand Ambassador, launched this new Garnier Fructis Triple Nutrition Strengthening Shampoo and Conditioner at Palladium Hotel.

It comes in a lovely yellow colored packaging. Triple Nutrition involves Coconut Oil, Almond Oil and  Olive Oil. I was never much impressed with Garnier Fructis range especially the conditioner, coz what I seek in a shampoo is smooth, silky, shiny hair which the previous range did not give me.  Though it helped in cleansing well and frizz control, straighter hair.

So I did not expect much from this range too, but reading the claims and ingredients, I did find it interesting.

L’Oreal Paris had launched the 6 Oil Nourish Range sometime back, and both L’Oreal and Garnier Fructis fall under the L’Oreal Paris group. So another oil based nourishing shampoo range from the same parent company, was intriguing.

The ingredients of both the ranges are quite similar. Even the 3 oils out of the 6 in L’Oreal 6 Oil Nourish Range are the same, with actually the slightly more expensive ones like Argan, Jojoba and Camelina being removed, when the price of both the ranges is exactly the same for the same quantity.

Though I would say its nice that its not completely oil based and has a blend of fruits like lemon, apple and sugarcane extracts too, which makes it lighter and perfect for oily scalp and hair.

Both the shampoo and conditioner are white in colour. Not too thick nor the runny kinds. I love the fresh lemon, apple smell!

Shampoo cleanses hair amazingly well in one single wash. If you have oiled your hair, you might need two washes. Conditioner is creamy but not rich. And not gel like which slips or falls from the hand, like in some brands. Its the perfect texture and moisturizing enough. Though they say you can use it on your scalp, I never use the conditioners on my scalp.

Leaves the hair softer, smoother and stays so for 2-3 days without the scalp feeling oily/greasy. And hair was tangle free. Though it does not help much in hairfall and dandruff, which I did not even expect it too.

If the shampoo/conditioner is not moisturizing enough, it may leave the hair dry, but if it is too rich and creamy, it weighs down oily scalp and hair, though works well for dry hair.

L’Oreal Paris 6 Oil Nourish Range is richer and perfect for dry hair. This one is moisturizing yet light enough for normal to oily hair.

Overall, I liked it. Much beyond expectations being Garnier Fructis. The 1st ever Garnier Fructis range that worked so well for me.

Have you tried the new Garnier Fructis Triple Nutrition Shampoo, Conditioner ?

P.S: PR Sample. Honest Review

Sleek MakeUP i-Divine Rio Rio Palette Review, Swatches

Sleek MakeUP i-Divine Rio Rio Palette Review, Swatches

What the Company claims: This exclusive i-Divine Palette is inspired by the explosion of vibrant exotic colours seen at the Rio Carnival, with bursts of golden yellow, intense fuchsia and metallic green hues.

Each shade is highly pigmented, reflecting the exciting carnival celebrations and everything that is Brazilian! Create shimmering eyes with super-charged shades that pop.

This palette of vibrant colours suits all skin tones and the exclusive packaging captures the flamboyant, exotic carnival costumes.

* Available only while stocks last

Weight : 12X1.1g/12×0.03floz

Storage info :Store in a cool dry place.

Not tested on animals

Please note, that this product is not available in the USA due to shipping regulations. We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause.

Directions to use:

MRP: $9.99

Another Limited Edition i-Divine Palette from Sleek MakeUP. This time its all about bright shades, for this is inspired by Brazil’s Rio Carnival!

It has the same standard Sleek MakeUP i-Divine palettes packaging and comes with a mirror and a two-sided sponge applicator.

Though I am not a fan of brights, this palette has some beautiful warms and n*des too!

The matte shades in Sleek MakeUP i-Divines were always a little powdery. But all the shades in this palette including the mattes are super bright, smooth and pigmented!

I could’nt believe the pigmentation these had. All the swatches are just one swipe.

Top Row:

Tropics: Matte bright coral orange

Night Fever: Matte bright reddish pink

Ipanema: Satin Plum with gold shimmer

Caipirinha: Metallic lime green

Urca: Beautiful satin finish muted light gold. My favorite <3

Leblon: Deep Matte Jet Black. Most pigmented black in a palette!

Bottom Row:

Cachaca: Metallic white

City of God: Metallic bright yellow

Copacabana: Satin finish beige n*de with gold shimmer

Sao Conrado: Matte carrot pink

Bossa Nova: Beautiful satin finish bluish purple. Another favorite <3

Leme: Gorgeous satin deep blue. Perfect for blue smokey eyes.

Overall, I would say, this is by far the most pigmented Sleek MakeUP i-Divine palette. If you are into brights, grab it right now before the stocks get over since its a limited edition. And even if you are not into brights like me, 5-6 shades are such that are super versatile, pigmented, warm, wearable and match up/blend with everything.

You can buy it online HERE.

This one is a must have! And also watch out for another Sleek MakeUP Palette review coming up, which I have huge expectations from!

Did you like the Sleek MakeUP i-Divine Rio Rio Palette ?

P.S: PR Sample. Honest Review.