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Austrian womenswear designer Lena Hoschek set up her eponymous brand in 2005, aged 24, based in the small Austrian town of Graz. Today, the brand has two flagship stores and an atelier in Austria and is stocked in independent stores in Germany, Italy, the US and Kuwait. Now a mainstay of Berlin Fashion Week, she focuses on high-quality fabrics and elegant, feminine design – at prices ranging from around £200 for shirts to £600 for dresses.
How did you come to be working in fashion?
My grandmother in Carinthia, southern Austria, taught me all sorts of crafts as a child: knitting, crochet and embroidery, which was my favourite thing to do. I learnt the art of attention to detail at a very young age. If you look at my clothing now, you can see this even on the inside of the garments. I enjoyed collecting different fabrics and loved floral-patterned fabrics the most. I was inspired by Laura Ashley and grew up looking through its catalogues while listening to The Sex Pistols.
Why did you decide to launch your own brand?
Even as a child I knew that I wanted to be self-employed and build my own company. When I was 16 or 17, I wasn’t too sure if I wanted to be a florist or a fashion designer, but after attending fashion college it wasn’t even a question.
How do you describe the ethos of the brand?
The female silhouette is something that is very important to me and I always aim for that to be the centre of attention. That’s why I use a lot of full skirts, cinched waists, and my garments show off cleavage. Cleavage for me is something that is very normal to show off during daytime.
Where do you find inspiration?
Every creative person is like a sponge, so everything around you impacts you and your work. I get inspired a lot by people and their lifestyles. Music is also a big inspiration. When I really want to sit down and get designing, I shut the door, turn off my phone and put on music.
What are some of the challenges of running your own label?
The main challenges come when you’re growing. I now have 40 staff, so to keep it all together is a challenge. I started out completely on my own and have grown slowly. From a one-woman-show where you do every job yourself to delegating to a team is difficult.
What have some of the highlights been since you started the brand?
My personal highlights are the developments within my company. Every new employee is a highlight. It’s very gratifying to know I can pay someone’s living costs from what I create. Brand-wise, it was when singer Katy Perry wore Lena Hoschek to her album launch in Berlin. When the first picture appeared it really gave us a boost as a brand.
What’s the best piece of business advice you’ve received?
The best business advice always comes from your customers as they will always build your business in the end.Read more at:http://www.marieaustralia.com/long-formal-dresses-online | http://www.marieaustralia.com/short-formal-dresses-australia
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Thomas Ilalaole commands a room when he/she is in it.
Once you get to know the 23-year-old's interests and aspirations, Ilalaole's bold presence makes sense.
Hawaii born but Parker, Colo. living now, Ilalaole is a natural performer – he/she's into theater and moonlights as a drag queen under the stage name StarChild.
Come Thursday, Ilalaole will add modeling during Denver’s first full week of fashion to his/her on-stage resume. Ilalaole is walking in the non-traditional and local designer show -- a natural progression as an actor.
“I've always been interested in modeling as an actor and a performer, but I've never found that there was an avenue for me to be a model,” Ilalaole told 9NEWS. “I am not a typical person that you would think would be a model.”
This year, the organizers of Denver Fashion Week held an open casting call for non-traditional and alternative models. Hundreds of people flocked to Walker Fine Art in January for their chance to be chosen for the spring show.
Of the 150 alternative models, Ilalaole was one of the 50 picked. He/she is walking for Duane Topping, a military vet who despite serving three tours in Iraq, has some non-traditional views on fashion and self-expression.
Thomas Ilalaole
“Basically he believes in non-gender exclusive fashion and [that] fashion is for everyone,” Ilalaole said of Topping. “This particular line that I'll be walking in focuses on being who you are and letting the fashion speak for itself.”
The alternative models walking in Thursday's show cover a wide swath of people -- women and men over the age of 50, petite and plus size models, as well as transgender people.
“The two other people I will be modeling with are both transgender women and I identity as genderqueer, so we all sort of live in different personhoods,” Ilalaole said.
Genderqueer is an identity commonly used by people who do not identify or express their gender within the gender binary.
The hope for the future, Ilalaole says, is that there won't need to be a modifier for his/her modeling.
"I think Denver Fashion Week is pushing this narrative so that we don't need to be called alternative models anymore, and so that we can just be regular models with everybody else."
Ilalaole thinks this show – a small move in the grand scheme – will create a change in how everyone views fashion.
“We don't need to have any specific labels; we're all humans and I think that the fashion will speak for itself. I think that we're making a good statement and I think it's really, really important.”Read more at:http://www.marieaustralia.com | http://www.marieaustralia.com/evening-dresses-online
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Actress Shraddha Kapoor walked the ramp for fashion designer Anita Dongre showcasing bridal collection on Saturday in Mumbai. During media interaction, Sharddha made it clear that biopic on ace Indian female shuttler Saina Nehwal will definitely be happening.
There were reports that biopic of Saina Nehwal has taken backseat as Shardha Kapoor has given preference of shooting to two other films ‘Saaho’ and ‘Stree’, reacting to that reports, Shraddha said “Right now the current films in which I am working on are ‘Saaho’ and ‘Stree’ and ‘Saina’ will definitely be happening later”
Sharing her experience about walking the ramp foe designer Anita Dongre, Shraddha said, “I felt really happy walking the ramp for Anita. The bridal lehenga which I am wearing is really beautiful piece of art and the color of the lehenga is also very pleasant. I share special bond with Anita and I am huge fan of her work so I am really happy that she chose me to showcase her collection on the ramp”
Talking about her love traditional Indian outfits and her personal routine outfits, Shraddha said, “I think Indian traditional wear is always special when you see a Indian women in a saree or a lehenga, I think nothing looks better than that so definitely when I also wear Indian outfits, I also get the same feeling”
“Honestly, I like to dress up on occasions otherwise, I am very lazy person. I mostly wear T-shirt and Track pant when I am doing nothing but definitely on Indian functions, I like dressing up”
Sharing her experience working with Prabhas in ‘Saaho’ and her role in ‘Saaho’, Shraddha said, “It is fabulous working with him. More than anything he is very nice person so that’s great. I think it’s too early to talk about my character in ‘Saaho’. In coming few months all will be able to know what ‘Saaho’ is all about”
Since Shraddha walked the ramp wearing bridal wear so when asked what qualities she looks in her future husband, She said, “I think it is very simple which everyone among us think that to get a good hearted person and more importantly you have to be that for the other person”
Shraddha next will be in along with Prabhas in Sujeeth’s multi-lingual film ‘Saaho’. She is also working in horror comedy ‘Stree’ along with Rajkummar Rao and then she will start shooting for biopic of Saina Nehwal which is being directed by Amol Gupte.Read more at:http://www.marieaustralia.com/cheap-formal-dresses | http://www.marieaustralia.com/mermaid-trumpet-evening-dresses
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It is never too soon and it is never too late to start taking care of your skin, but how can you ever know exactly what it needs?
Throughout most of my life my regime consisted of whatever body wash I had in the shower followed by a budget face cream, which was absolutely fine up to the age of 25.
In recent years I have endeavoured to up my game, purchasing all sorts of things from serums to moisture masks.
With little idea as to what any of them did, I never stuck to it for very long and would slip back into my old routine within weeks.
Unsurprisingly, my fine lines deepened as the elasticity across my face weakened.
I decided to visit the Harpenden Skin Clinic at The Coach House, in Pipers Lane, for a facial and, even though it was not my first, it has revolutionised my approach and understanding of skincare.
For 24 hours after my appointment fine lines were barely visible. My skin looked bright and fresh for the days that followed with the lines still vastly improved.
Leaving Harpenden Skin Clinic with completely rejuvenated skin left me determined to maintain it.
Consultation
Driving from Harpenden Station, which takes less than 10 minutes, you find yourself passing fields of animals - including alpacas. This country setting enhances the tranquillity of your entire visit and inside the luxuriously renovated, contemporary barn is a state-of-the-art offering for skin, body and face.
Despite the high end setting and upmarket offering, I felt wonderfully at home. This was partly due to the delightfully affable Ciara who chatted away, telling me all about the clinic and its innovative treatments, such as Vitamin B drips – something I thought only Hollywood A-listers had.
Ciara began by cleaning my face and then examining my skin. We had a look at it under a UV light and it wasn’t pretty I have to say, partly because I am already very freckly so the light revealed a huge amount of pigmentation underneath.
She assured me that this is normal for somebody with as many freckles as me, but if somebody had the same level of pigmentation with nothing visible on the surface of their skin this might be a concern. Without proper attention it will eventually come through and the individual may not be too pleased about the sudden change in their face.
The facial
We discussed my skin and the concerns I had and much to my surprise I discovered I have combination skin.
I always thought it was oily skin and was tentative with creams, but what the UV light revealed was that outside of my T-Zone the skin is actually quite dehydrated.
This is also common around the eyes – because the skin is thin it dries out much easier and that is why you need to use separate eye cream, a product which had always baffled me.
Ciara then advised on a tailored treatment with a light peel to clear oil and blocked pores, followed by a moisturising cloth face mask, intermingled with lots of lovely products sumptuously slathered and massaged into my face and neck.
Afterwards my face was a little blotchy from the peel, so I sat under the Dermalux for 20-minutes.
This machine is non-invasive and uses wavelengths of light with LED technology to deliver safe and effective results for a wide range of skin conditions. My redness would have subsided in time without it, but I am told it works wonders for those with acne or rosacea.
After care
Ciara sat with me and discussed different products, explaining the different ingredients that would benefit my skin. She talked me through an ideal morning and evening routine, outlining what each step was doing and why – such as the need for sun protection factor 50 every day of the year.
The leading brand at Harpenden Skin Clinic is SkinCeuticals and this is what was used during my facial.
At no point did I feel pressure to buy anything. The needs of my skin and how each product or ingredient met them was explained, and I was sent on my way with a little goodie bag of samples and a thorough understanding of how to care for my face long-term.Read more at:www.marieaustralia.com/yellow-formal-dresses | www.marieaustralia.com/green-formal-dresses
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USE A PRO
Entrust your alterations to an experienced seamstress. If you consider someone outside of a bridal salon, ask for references and photos, and visit the seamstress’ workroom before you commit.
SCHEDULE YOUR FITTINGS
Plan to buy your gown 10 months before your wedding, knowing that some gowns can take five months for delivery. It’s common to have two and sometimes three fittings, depending on the seamstress and the work to be done. The first fitting typically is scheduled about two months before the wedding, with the final fitting about two weeks prior to the wedding.
SHOP FOR FIT, NOT SIZE
Sizing is inconsistent in bridal, and gowns tend to run small. If you normally wear a size 6 dress, your perfect fit might be in a size 8 or 10 gown. Never buy a gown that’s too small, thinking you’ll lose weight. Likewise, resist buying a gown that’s more than one size larger than you need. The seamstress can’t just take it in. “You have to take apart the entire dress and cut it down to size."
INVEST IN PROPER UNDERGARMENTS
Your bra, slip and shapewear all make a difference in the way your dress fits your body. Invest in quality undergarments and bring them to your fittings.
CONSIDER YOUR HEEL
Arrive with the shoes you plan to wear on your wedding day or at least a proxy pair with a similar heel height. Vaccaro recommends a hemline that gently grazes the ground. This way, you’ll be able to walk, dance and mingle without tripping over your dress.
RELISH THE MOMENT
Have your hair and makeup done for your final fitting to give your wedding-day look a trial run. “Looking pretty will also help you see yourself as you will be seen on your wedding day,” Vaccaro says.Read more at:http://www.marieaustralia.com/cheap-formal-dresses | http://www.marieaustralia.com/melbourne-formal-dress-shops
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Studies have shown that men and women approach investing and money management differently. So, what can the sexes learn from each other?
It turns out men might have the steeper learning curve, as research suggests that women have a slight edge.
In 2016, Fidelity Investments sifted through 8 million of its investment accounts and found that women's investments earned 0.4 per cent more per year than men's.
Another study by the University of California at Berkeley's Haas School of Business looked at investing trends over six years and also found that women performed better.
This doesn't mean that all men make a mess of investing, of course. Think of it as similar to how, in general, men are taller than women, but there are still lots of tall women and shorter guys.
However, it does suggest there are some recurring differences in the way women approach money management.
"We find that women tend to think more as planners than men do," says Andrea Thompson, senior financial planner at Coleman Wealth, part of Raymond James Ltd. in Toronto.
"Women seem to be more sensitive to the complexities that financial planning involves. Obviously, not everyone is like that, but we do find that women seem to understand more that a plan drives the individual investment decision, and not the other way around," she explains.
Men generally "want to talk more about the specific investments and their performance. They come to us more often with stock or investment tips that they read or heard about. They tend to think that investment means trading, and it's not – the two are different."
Another difference she finds is that women tend to be more comfortable with the investment decisions recommended by planners, while men tend to challenge these decisions more often.
"This comes up when men question the types of investments we make for our clients – whether it's an ETF [exchange-traded fund] versus a mutual fund or a stock," Ms. Thompson explains.
Whether it is running a top hedge fund or a small family portfolio, investing has come to be seen as something that men are best placed to manage, says Meredith Jones, author of Women of The Street: Why Female Money Managers Generate Higher Returns.
This persists even though "it seems that on average women are better at preserving and increasing wealth," she says.
Current research, however, does not offer evidence that men or women perform better at a macroeconomic level, says Ambrus Kecskés, associate professor of finance at York University's Schulich School of Business in Toronto.
While it's true that some research finds gender differences among analysts and fund managers, these distinctions seldom are evident in results or return on investment.
Investors should not expect initial public offerings to be wildly overpriced or hedge funds to be traded like baseball cards just because men are in charge, Dr. Kecskés says. Similarly, on the whole, big-league investment decisions by female managers won't be more cautious or risk-averse than men's.
The lack of difference at the higher levels means that "we can all sleep easy in terms of assets like our private and public pensions," Dr. Kecskés says. The gender of the big decision-makers doesn't seem to matter.
"On the other hand, at the microeconomic level, there is lots of evidence that men and women behave differently, and that it does show up in peoples' portfolios. So whether you're a man or a woman, you may want to be aware that you might have these biases [because of your gender]."
These differences can easily be tempered by other factors. For example, a woman or a man with an MBA in finance might look at money management differently than someone with a completely different education.
Still, gender biases might be food for thought, Dr. Kecskés says: "If you're a man and the literature suggests that men tend to trade too much, you might want to ask yourself: Do I really need to buy into bitcoin right now?"
Darren Coleman, who works with Ms. Thompson at Coleman Wealth, says the temptation to trade more frequently can be exacerbated by the ease of trading and low fees offered by ETFs.
"It's not just the fact that ETF's are easy to trade. It's also the messaging from the direct brokerage companies that trading is what's required to be successful," says Mr. Coleman, senior vice-president and portfolio manager.
"Consider the ads that run on TV for these companies. They offer dozens, sometimes hundreds, of 'free' trades when one opens an account and deposits capital. They offer very sexy trading tools for things like 'market intelligence' and a 'personal algorithmic add-on.' I'm not making these terms up."
For those investors who like to trade a lot, whether male or female, the ease of ETFs may actually make portfolios more complicated, Ms. Thompson warns.
That's because ETFs, which hold a basket of stocks, are designed to be bought and held, as they include a broad array of equities on the market. Trading can thus be counterproductive.
"Just because you can trade cheaply and easily doesn't mean you should," Mr. Coleman says.
Whether you're a man or a woman, "remember, wisdom, experience and prudence come separately from trading."Read more at:http://www.marieaustralia.com/melbourne-formal-dress-shops | http://www.marieaustralia.com/formal-dress-shops-adelaide
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Polygiene, a leading provider of odour control technology and Stays Fresh solutions for clothing, sports equipment, lifestyle and textiles, is partnering with Particle Fever, a growing experimental independent sportswear label in China. Polygiene has been added in all Particle Fever’s menswear and unisex lines and will debut in its female collection shortly.
Described as the first high-end designer sports brand in China, Particle Fever is pioneering this industry with insights on art, technology, culture and creativity. They work with international key opinion leaders and have a very strong social media community.
The company, founded in 2015, is backed by investors from veterans of Alibaba, Goldman Sachs, IDG and Uber/DIDI. Sales are mainly online, but also through luxury athleisure retailer Lane Crawford and a first flagship store in Shanghai, with a second opening soon in Beijing. A future expansion into the US market is also on the agenda.
“We are very excited to start working with this extraordinary Chinese brand. We see Asia as a strategic and important market. As the sport and outdoor lifestyle is growing fast in this area, Particle Fever has a great growth potential. We are following their development with great interest”, states Polygiene CEO, Christian von Uthmann.
“Polygiene adds an important functionality to our products and is a strong ingredient brand with their Stays Fresh Technology. We also share the same target with a high-value audience. The added angle on sustainability through the Wear More. Wash Less message is becoming more important in the Chinese market” says Julianne Zhu, marketing director of Particle Fever.Read more at:http://www.marieaustralia.com/formal-dresses | http://www.marieaustralia.com/cocktail-dresses-australia
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Every now and then, I cave into the temptation of a cheap, sartorial thrill with as much buzz as the next girl, but I’m also mindful of the environmental impact of ’fast fashion’.
Plus, correct me if I’m wrong, but there’s a certain smugness that ensues when you’re constantly complimented on something you’re wearing, only to (proudly) divulge that said item was from X chain store.
I’ll admit, it does take a certain talent (and lots of time on one’s hands) to navigate the minefield that are chain stores like a pro, but with a few simple rules to shop by, it’s totally possible to find a wardrobe hero (or two) that you’ll wear and keep for years.
Be choosy about fabric
It can mean the difference between something cheap-looking that won’t last more than one wear and wash, or an item of clothing that will look ten times more expensive than it actually costs. Natural fibres like cotton, silk and linen will always have their place in any wardrobe, but also consider georgette, plissé pleated fabric, velvet, and cupro. These fabrics have an amazing drape, they rarely wrinkle and they age well, ensuring you’re more likely to keep them for years.
Avoid: angora and mohair, which can pill quickly and nastily. When it comes to coats and jackets, a wool/cashmere component tends to have the greatest longevity. Look to Zara, COS and Topshop – some of my coats from these stores have been mistaken for the likes of Max Mara (which is no easy feat!).
Be obsessive about fit
It’s a no-brainer, but this especially rings true for tailored pieces available on the high street. Things like blazers and coats require a precision fit, particularly at the shoulders and sleeves. Take note of what suits you best according to your figure or, if all else fails, have your tailor on speed dial!
Dive into trends carefully
The thing about cheap and cheerful chain store finds is that it’s so affordable to buy into that season’s trend without having to take out a second mortgage. I don’t take this as my cue to go crazy with trend-driven pieces I’ll only wear once or twice though; I zero in on items that balance elements of timelessness with directional cuts. A modern take on florals and polka dots, or an interesting sleeve tends to have the most staying power in my wardrobe, or a basic cut in a trend-driven fabric. Designer/high street collaborations are a perfect starting point – the recent Erdem x H&M collaboration is a perfect example of how you can incorporate the designer’s signature prints into your ‘forever’ wardrobe.
Do your quality control
It goes without saying, but chain stores are synonymous with below-average quality control. However, if you choose wisely and look carefully, it’s possible to find a few fashion gems. I check the stitching, hems, construction, and I often do a quick fabric ‘scrunch’ (if the fabric looks worse for wear in just a few seconds, back on the rack it goes).
Invest in denim
This may be a divisive topic, but as someone who has a high-low mix of denim in their closet, I’ve personally found the best path to take is the middle road. Jeans that are too cheap are often paper-thin, ill-fitting and will stretch out after just the first wear. I know I can always rely on Topshop and Zara season after season for ultra-flattering, comfortable and decent quality denim. They’re also available in lots of different cuts and washes to suit everyone.
Don’t underestimate the one-outfit-wonder
Some of my most favourite (and longest-serving) purchases in my wardrobe are attributed to dresses. I find it incredibly hard to justify spending hundreds of dollars on a big-ticket dress I’ll only wear once or twice a year, so I’m forever on the lookout for wedding-worthy pieces that are not only affordable, but can also see me through the next few years (or more). ASOS, Zara and H&M are my go-to stores to shop for occasion pieces.
It can be a minefield, but if you have a game plan, it’s definitely possible to find and hold onto these pieces for years. Take note of all the ‘rules’ above – fit, fabric, quality, and print – and with some general TLC, I guarantee your new wardrobe MVPs won’t have to cost the Earth (in more ways than one).Read more at:http://www.marieaustralia.com/formal-dress-shops-adelaide | http://www.marieaustralia.com/formal-dress-shops-canberra
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The British Fashion Council has teamed with the British Fashion Model Agency Association in an effort to make models’ lives safer — and easier. As part of The Models First Initiative, the two parties plan to set guidelines for appropriate work practices and help models negotiate visa regulations in the run-up to Brexit.
The BFC said it plans to help create a charter the industry can adhere to, and create a safe space where models and agencies can call out abuse and misconduct. The initiative is a part of Positive Fashion, a BFC pillar that promotes best practices and positive change in the industry.
Caroline Rush, chief executive officer of the BFC, said she had been approached by the model agency association to help in setting codes of practice for the agencies and the industry. “They understood the need to develop an independent committee that will challenge agencies, as well as industry norms, to ensure that models are treated with the same respect and care as all employees in the industry.”
Rush said the stories highlighted through MeToo, the social media hashtag used to spotlight sexual crimes and harassment in the wake of the Harvey Weinstein scandal, “has meant that there is no better time for the industry to work together to stamp out any form of maltreatment or abuse.”
She added that the fashion industry is also facing challenges as visa regulations come under scrutiny in light of Brexit “and we need to ensure that access is open and that talented individuals from overseas are not excluded from working in the U.K., diminishing our opportunity to compete on a global stage.”
The BFC’s move comes in the wake of the charter set up earlier this year by Kering and LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton to ban size-zero models from the catwalk and from fashion shoots and to ensure their well-being. The charter was drawn up after a series of high-profile incidents during Paris Fashion Week in February, including allegations that models were mistreated at a casting for Balenciaga, a Kering brand.Read more at:www.marieaustralia.com/vintage-formal-dresses | www.marieaustralia.com/backless-formal-dresses
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Winter is all about wearability and comfort, but don’t make it an excuse to let go of the style quotient. Break away from conventional silhouettes and experiment with versatile trends like embroidered capes or structured peplums to beat the chill, say fashion gurus.
Ace fashion designer Manish Malhotra, who has dressed up beauties likes Kajol, Karisma Kapoor, Kareena Kapoor Khan, Rani Mukerji, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and Preity Zinta, feels one should stick to layering, but incorporate vintage hues.
“Winter is all about comfort in style as we break away from conventional silhouettes and experiment with versatile trends that cater to a young global audience. As we mark the beginning of festivities in India, my latest collection spotlights layering as the key highlight of the season; I love layering as a trend and I always incorporate it even in my personal style,” Malhotra told IANS.
“Crafted in vintage hues of chrome, ivory, oyster grey and rose, organza capes, trench jackets, and silken kimonos draped over tea-length dresses and layered skirts add an innovative twist to the young, glamourous women. For the modern gentleman, cowl-necked kurta-shirts with embroidered dinner jackets and velvet drapes help accentuate European accent to the classic ensemble,” he added.
Designer duo Ankur and Priyanka Modi, who established their brand AM:PM 15 years ago, believe in modern simplicity. “Winter is all about wearability, comfort and style and this season we break the monotony of traditional influences to introduce bold, power silhouettes as the versatile trend to adapt. Crafted in luxurious fabrics of velvet and silk, jackets, long or short, add an understated glamour to a classic silhouette,” they shared a joint view with IANS.
Pointing out the trends to go for, they said: “Be it the embroidered capes or structured peplums, each garment can be effortlessly paired across any occasion and are thus, our staple must-have choice for the season.” A lot of people associate winter with black and grey. But try hues like pomegranate red and aubergine, says Deepshikha Khanna, Head of Product Development (Apparel) for Sustain, Good Earth, India.
“At Good Earth, our design philosophy revolves around translating simple everyday luxury for fashion lovers across the globe. With the festivities ushering in, our Sustain range highlights fusion wear as the emerging trend for the winter season,” Deepshikha said.
“Breezy kurtas worn with palazzos and printed scarves make an ideal choice for a casual day brunch while embroidered shararas and angrakhas crafted in deep, winter hues of pomegranate red, aubergine and charcoal is perfect for an evening outing. Indigenous fabrics of chanderi, silk, velvet and brocade flaunt versatility and comfort and can be styled effortlessly from day to night across various occasions.”Read more at:www.marieaustralia.com/sexy-formal-dresses | www.marieaustralia.com/backless-formal-dresses