Pinktober

Ever so often we need to take a break from being who we are-fashion designers, journalist, bloggers, PR Executive, Lawyer, etc…- and come together for a cause that unites us all.

Last weekend, one such cause made most Bombay fashion bloggers cut short their quality time at the newly launched Forever21 store in Goregaon and head all the way to South Bombay for Elle-Ogaan Breast Cancer Awareness Campaign at Hard Rock Café.
Titled ‘Pinktober’, the main aim of the event was to create awareness about breast cancer.

[Outfit Details: Top-AND, Pink Jeans-Marks & Spencer, Sandals-Forever 21, Necklace-Pink Feather, Watch-DKNY]
Take it from someone who spends a good amount of time on WebMD, this event was an eye opener. From busting myths to making us aware of the right way of examining our breast, the doctors at the event helped us understand the disease better and how we each in our own was can prevent it.

As fashion bloggers, our blogs our are workplace. This post is my contribution to ‘Wear Pink to Work Day’ (an annual program by Ogaan Cancer Foundation and the ELLE Breast Cancer Campaign) as well as my pledge to support and spread the knowledge of breast cancer awareness more aggressively.

While the event is all about breast cancer awareness, we bloggers decide to add some spunk and quirk to make sure the message gets all the attention it needs.
Here are some fun snap shots from Pinktober.
Anyone who knows me, knows, I am obsessed with how my hair look at all times. But for a cause this noble I was ready to wear an all-eyes-on-me shocking pink wig!! 
With Kavisa{EpicChic} and Ritcha{Ri(t)chStyles}
Let's be honest-Being a drama queen is kinda my thing, plus it suits me real well. 

Here are a few important Breast Cancer related FYI's:

1. Breast cancer is the second most common cancer among Indian women. (Cervical cancer being the first)

2. Now there is a vaccination available for the prevention of cervical cancer. This vaccination is best administered between the age of 9-16 years.

3. The whole idea that tight bra or underwired bra gives cancer is a big fat MYTH. It is advisable to wear a bra that is the right size and gives good support.

4. Since you know your body best, self -breast examination is the best form of examination. One should start giving themselves a self-breast exam from the age of 25.

5. While there is no known cause or reason for best cancer, the best way to prevent it is to have a healthy and balanced diet and regular exercise.

As a fashion blogger I have shared about all thing fashion, lifestyle and beauty.
As a woman I wish to share all the knowledge that I have received about breast cancer. I strongly recommend you all pass it on to every woman you know. The more we talk about it, the more awareness we can create and help women fight breast cancer.

This post by Fashionopolis is dedicated to all the fighters and survivors of breast cancer.

Till then, tra-la,

 Amena!!

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Instagram: @a_fashionopolis
email me- a.fashionopolis@gmail.com

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The Five W's Of Fashion Blogging

On the last day of the first week of fashion school, our HOD wrote these words on the board: WHY, WHAT, WHO, WHEN, WHERE (and HOW).

She pointedly stated that finding the meaning to these words is the key to finding out what we wish to achieve from our chosen field. What started as a simple exercise at the beginning of fashion school became a way of life. 

For me, at the beginning of a new endeavour or while celebrating a milestone, these five interrogative pronouns come to mind.

On 4th October, Fashionopolis celebrated its 2nd blogoversary. While I could have done a regular run of the mill celebration post or giveaway (coming soon), I wanted to share something that has helped me from the beginning of my blogging (and fashion) journey. 

Every few months I keep asking myself these five questions. The answer to them help me figure out If I am on the right path or do I need to change course.

WHY did I want to start a fashion blog?

When someone asks me, “Why did you start a fashion blog?” I have my answer at the tip of my tongue. The answer to this is the building block of your blogging journey.

After spending years as a fashion designer, I wanted to express my views and love for fashion beyond the designing board. 

As someone who has studied and worked in the fashion field, plus has a passion for writing, starting a fashion blog was a natural progression into trying out something new but not unfamiliar.

WHAT kind of a fashion blogger am I?

When I started my blog I knew I wanted it to have an editorial look and feel. My aim was not to showcase my personal fashion or comment about celebrity fashion. I wanted to be a fashion blogger in the literal sense. Someone who wrote about all things fashion.

While my blog by large is true to its original format, I have managed to occasionally incorporate my personal style as well as red carpet events.

Once you have figured out what kind of fashion blogger you want to be, this will make it easier for you to connect with the right target audience and brands.

WHO are my readers and target audience?

A lot of times brands ask bloggers, “Who is your blog’s target audience?”
Before we can answer the brands, we need to be sure of this ourselves.

 Knowing your readers gives you a good amount of clarity in understanding what works for your blog and what does not. This will also help you connect with the right brands.

If you are looking at blogging from a professional angle, your target audience can literally make or break your blog.

The reason why Miss Malini or Prez Hilton or Bryan Boy have managed to make it big, is, because they understood their readers really well and gave them just what they wanted. 

Once you know your audience it becomes very easy for you to select your subject matter and tone of writing. 

Keep in mind: ‘Who’ must come after ‘What’.
 First, figure out what kind of a fashion blogger you want to be, then find the right audience for it. Doing it the other way round is not only risky but can backfire.

WHEN do I start my fashion blog?

A lot of readers and friends ask me this question:“Amena, when is the right time to start a fashion blog?” 

Honestly, you can start one tomorrow. I took three months to research the Indian and international fashion blogging market before starting mine. 

From selecting a name that will convey my blog message to picking the font, layout and deciding on my writing style, I looked at every aspect before I launched Fashionopolis.

Since I belong to the fashion field I was well acquainted with the fashion lingo and terminologies. 

Basic understanding of the subject matter before you start your blog is always very helpful.

WHERE do I host my blog & HOW do I reach out to my target audience?

Before I started my blog, I looked at both, Blogger and WordPress.

Initially, selecting the right blogging platform may seem insignificant, but in the long run it makes a whole lot of difference.

The idea of starting a blog is to connect with like-minded people. Be it a personal or professional blog, the aim is to reach out to people. How does one go about reaching out to the right audience? 

While Facebook helps me promote my blog to a larger audience, Twitter makes it easier for me to connect with my readers and have a one on one equation with them and Pinterest is a great platform to showcase my collages, inspiration and creative.

For people to know about your blog you need to spread the word about it. How you do it and which social media platforms you engage in depends on your target audience.


Whether you are a newbie fashion blogger or a seasoned one, these five question are a must be asked time and again.

Till then, tra-la,

 Amena!!

 Connect With Fashionopolis on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Bloglovin' & Subscribe
Instagram: @a_fashionopolis
email me- a.fashionopolis@gmail.com

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Style It Thrice: Glitter Ballerina

“Give a girl the right shoes, and she can conquer the world.” Marilyn Monroe

Once a friend jokingly said, “All that glitters has Amena written all over it!”
Even though she was joking we both knew that was not far from the truth. For the longest time ever, I have had a thing for all things glitter, baubles, bling and metallic. I love them in all shapes, sizes and styles.

As much as I love all things glitter, I know for a fact how very easy it is to make glitter go from eye catching to tacky and God forbid, trashy! This is one of those trends that can swing either way.

To make this trend work, you need to invest in a piece that is apt for your body type.
Since glitter has a statement making quality, make sure it is adorned on that part of your body that you consider an asset.

Since I am not blessed with a glitter flaunting kind of body, I decided to deck my feet out in all its bling glory.

I have always dabbled with glitter, however, this is the first time in my life I have invested in a full-fledged glitter piece.

For my first ever glitter piece I treated myself to these stunning colourful ballet flats from Catwalk. 

I got this pair for- wait for it- just Rs. 600/-from Shoppers Stop in Hyderabad. The only think I shopped this sale season! (You can buy the exact same Catwalk glitter ballerina from Myntra.com and Jabong.com)

Other than being my first glitter piece, these ballerinas are my first pair of closed shoes in 12 years! 

When I bought them I really did not think styling them would be a task, until someone asked me are these shoes a practical purchase? She further added, the fact that they are multi-colour glitter itself makes them unmatchable with many things.

Where a season mix and matcher like me saw truckload of styling potentials, for someone with an untrained eye these ballerinas could have looked like an outlandish purchase.

For this week’s ‘Style It Thrice’ segment I decided to feature what I like to call my version of the ‘Ruby Slippers’ 

Not only are the ballerinas comfortable, they can easily be styled with a number of different pieces for different occasion.

Keeping the latest trends as well classic styles in mind, here are few of my glitter ballerina styling options.

Working Girl: The first time I wore my glitter ballerina; it was during Lakmé Fashion Week. In fact, this entire outfit is inspired by my LFW Day 3 look. 

For trendy work wear look pair the ballerina with simple cobalt blue blouse, classic black jeans, colourful necklace and oversized tote. The overall look is a blend of classic style with elements of colour pop. 

For a more corporate look, trade the colourful necklace/bag with a subtle metallic/neutral one. 

[DIANE VON FURSTENBERG  Blouse, MANGO Jeans, DAVID AUBREY Necklace, CALVIN KLEIN JEANS Tote, MARC by MARC JACOBS Watch, YVES SAINT LAURENT Blush]

Fashion Week: Fashion Week is that time of the year when fashion industry's best creations are seen on as well as off the runway.
To make a significant statement, style a monochrome print mix ensemble. Pair the glitter ballerina with a black and white printed halter top and printed full skirt. To up the chic quotient, polish the look off with nude pink blazer, black and gold hardware belt,  plum clutch and cuff bracelet.

[JANE NORMAN Top, JIL SANDER Skirt, ALEXANDER MCQUEEN Blazer, REBECCA MINKOFF Clutch, BALMAIN Belt, VINCE CAMUTO Earrings, OSCAR DE LA RENTA Cuff, BOBBI BROWN Lip Gloss]

Date Night: Bored of wearing the uniform LBD or LWD to your date nights? Spice up your look and mix and match the ballerina with a fluro green lace shift dress and black and white patterned minaudiére. Polish the look off with a cuff bracelet, bright lipstick and dangling stone earrings.

[TOPSHOP Dress, ZARA Minaudiére, KATE SPADE Earrings, BACCARAT Cuff Bracelet, NARS Eye Liner Pencil, L'OREAL Lipstick]

What I really like about this pair of glitter ballerina is, that they can easily be styled with Western, Indo-Western and Indian attire. Ideal for the upcoming festive season.

Once in a while it's fun to trade you regular shoes for a pair of glittery statement making ones. Don't you agree? Share your views with me in the comment section.

Till then, tra-la,

 Amena!!

 Connect With Fashionopolis on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Bloglovin' & Subscribe
Instagram: @a_fashionopolis
email me- a.fashionopolis@gmail.com

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New Brand On The Block: Bottega di Lungavita

Every time I crib about my oily skin issues to my dermatologist, his standard reply is, that I don’t have to worry about wrinkles for a long time. “Oily skin is God’s own way of delaying wrinkles”

While the long-term benefits sound very promising, the current problems outshine that promise. Like, literally!

Take it from someone who has dealt with oily, sensitive skin half her life, we think 5000 times before trying out a new skincare/beauty brand or product. One bad reaction and the side effects can be felt for months to come.
I very rarely take anyone’s recommendation in matters of skin care. But when a fellow oily skin friend of mine highly recommended a newly launched brand, Bottega di Lungavita products, I was quite keen on trying out their products.

When it comes to skincare I never try a new brand products that are heavy or cream based.
For my first time trying out Bottega di Lungavita products, I decided to sample their make-up remover, cleansing pads and lip balm. Safe, yet something that will give me an understanding of the brand and its products.

[Image courtesy Twinkle Dalal]

Review of Bottega di Lungavita Acqua Micellare (Make-up remover)
Make-up remover is one product where I do not mind spending. My main criteria is that the remover should gives a clean finish and removes all traces of make-up as well as suit my sensitive skin.

Before I tried out Bottega di Lungavita Acqua Micellare, I had only used cream based make-up remover. I was not too sure if a water based make-up remover would be able to give a clean finish as a cream based one.
However, after trying it out, I have to say I was pleasantly surprised and very impressed with the product.

Verdict & Recommendation:

A great alternative to cream based makeup remover. It removes the most stubborn makeup with ease and gives a clean finish. Ideal for oily skin type as it does not leave a sticky residue.

Even though it is ophthalmologically tested, the remover does sting the eyes. If you are someone with sensitive eyes, it is best to avoid using the remover in that region.

Price: Rs.1350/- for a bottle of 250 ml.

Review of Bottega di Lungavita Lip Balm
Just as I have an unhealthy obsession with lipsticks, I have a one with lip balms too.
 I have to be honest, while I have tried all kinds of fruit and berry flavoured lip balms; this was my first time trying out an apple flavour one. 

Verdict & Recommendation:

Even before trying out the product I was in love with the flavour  and after trying it out, I must say this lip balm has made it to my top three all time fave lip balm list.

Lack of SPF is the only drawback of this lip balm. Otherwise, on every other counts it is perfect.

Price: Rs. 399/-

Review of Bottega di Lungavita Refreshing Cleaning Pads

It has been a while since I have used cleaning pads. One of the reasons being instead of cleaning, most of them would leave a sticky residue. I am so glad that after ages when I finally decide to try out a new cleanings pads it is this one.

Verdict & Recommendation:

These cleaning pads are idea for all skin types as they provide instant clean up. For someone with an oily skin type these cleansing pads are a boon. They clean as well as soak up the excessive oil, giving the face a clean, non-greasy and smooth finish. 

If you are someone who is always on the go and has to travel a lot, I recommend you carry a box of these cleansing pads with you at all times. 

One box contains 30 cleansing pads.
Price Rs.1690/-

After using these amazing Bottega di Lungavita products for almost a month, I can confidently say that Bottega di Lungavita make- up remover, cleansing pads and lip balm have officially become my must have skin and lip care product.

You can buy Bottega di Lungavita from www.fabulloso.com

Please Note: These recommendations are based solely on my personal experience. Before using any of these products please make sure they are compatible with your individual skin type.
Before writing the review all the above products have been tried and tested by me for over a period of 2 weeks.

Till then, tra-la,

 Amena!!

 Connect With Fashionopolis on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Bloglovin' & Subscribe
Instagram: @a_fashionopolis
email me- a.fashionopolis@gmail.com

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TONI&GUY HairMeetWardrobe India Launch

“Hair style is the final tip-off whether or not a woman really knows herself.” ~ Hubert de Givenchy

As someone who has been a part of the fashion world for most of my adult life, I have seen way more fashionable women than stars in the sky. While most women on some level are fashionable, very few are impeccably well styled and groomed.To transcend from being just fashionable to being overall well styled ever aspect has to be taken into account: Clothes, accessories, makeup and hair.

While most of us give utmost attention to our clothes, accessories and makeup; our hairstyle on the other hand is never a priority.
 However all that is about to change thanks to Toni&Guy's HairMeetWardrobe.

When Britain’s most celebrated hair-styling brand, Toni&Guy decided to launch in India they choose to combine the twin worlds of high fashion and hair styling. TONI&GUY HairMeetWardrobe coherently defines everything that lies in between. The brand’s debut launch emphasises their philosophy of ‘HairMeetWardrobe', showcasing the revolutionary concept of how hair can be worn as an accessory. Aptly put ‘Dress From The Head’ 

The much anticipated India launch witnessed a fashion forward evening with spectacular musical performance. Toni&Guy’s HairMeetWardrobe Global Hair Ambassador Mark Hampton and official fashion stylist, king of kitsch, Manish Arora together brought to life the brand’s HairMeetWardrobe philosophy by lending their creative sensibilities to hair styling and wardrobe, respectively.The effervescent Anusha Dandekar, elegant Soha Ali Khan and the dazzling Malaika Arora Khan, each of these fashionistas represented the theme of a Toni&Guy’s HairMeetWardrobe range, namely – Casual,Classic and Glamour.  Themed on the concept of ‘HairMeetWardrobe’ and the three timeless looks – Casual, Classic and Glamour - ace choreographer Shiamak Dhawar, beautifully brought to life the brand’s philosophy through a themed musical performance. At the musical, Anusha, Soha and Malaika performed as showstoppers for their respective themes.

While Manish hypnotised us with his brilliant fashion aesthetics, Mark's captured our attention with trendy, yet easy-to-create, hair styles. Combined together, the three looks created were par excellence.

CASUAL
Mark highlighted Anusha’s naturally casual and chic personality with a trendy top-knot bun using TONI&GUY HairMeetWardrobe Sea-salt texturing spray from the Casual collection. 

Inspired by Manish’s casual rock chic look created for Anusha, here is how you too can rock a look similar to hers.

[More information on the products here]

CLASSIC

Mark highlighted Soha’s innate elegance and accentuated her classic Indian beauty by giving her vintage side-swept waves. He used TONI&GUY HairMeetWardrobe shine-gloss serum, a lightweight formula, from the Classic collection to seal her flawless look.

Inspired by in Manish Arora’s ‘scarlet princess dress’ and overall look created for Soha, here is how you too can style a look similar to hers.
[More information on the products here]

GLAMOUR

Mark enhanced Malaika’s glamorous personality by emphasising her beautiful diva like tresses into a high-glamour waves. A Moisturizing Shine Spray from the TONI&GUY HairMeetWardrobe Glamour collection was used to give her hair a weightless shine. 

Inspired by in Manish Arora’s ‘Glam black baroque dress’ and overall look created for Malaika, here is how you too can style a look similar to hers.

[More information on the products here]

For someone who has been an ardent fan and follower of Manish Arora, meeting the maestro himself was the highlight of the evening. To make the night even more special, Mr Arora complimented the necklace I was wearing. His exact words, “I love your necklace. It is stunning.”

[Outfit Details: Top- AND, Jeans- Marks & Spencer, Bag- French Connection, Necklace- Accessorize]

And just when I thought the night could not get any better, I was charmed away by the adorable Mark Hampton. 

[Image courtesy Shanaya]
While most of us from the fashion fraternity are familiar with TONI&GUY HairMeetWardrobe brand, I am very happy that it has officially been launched in India. After a memorable launch event one can't help but look forward to trying out their fabulous products.

Till then, tra-la,

 Amena!!
 Connect With Fashionopolis on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Bloglovin' & Subscribe

Instagram: @a_fashionopolis
email me- a.fashionopolis@gmail.com

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Style It Thrice: Neon Layered Necklace

While some women have a love affair with shoes, mine is with eye catching statement necklace (as well as bright colour lipsticks and oversized bags). 

In fact, the amount of necklaces and bags I have bought in the past few months has crossed my outfit count!

The first time I saw Accessorize's neon layered statement necklace I had a major Amy Farrah Fowler "Who" moment (the same reaction I have every time I see Harvey Specter!)

I went weak in the knee, my mouth got dry and all I wanted to do was grab that thing and label it as mine!

Ever since I treated myself to this stunning beauty I have been wearing it everywhere. Like literally!

 One of the many reasons why I decided to feature my Accessorize neon layered statement necklace {Rs.2645} in this week's 'Style It Thrice' segment.

 Other than being absolutely gorgeous, it is hands down my favourite statement necklace at the moment; plus one of India's biggest fashion designer complimented it. His exact words:"I love your necklace. It is stunning!"

What really makes this week's 'Style It Thrice' a special post, is, for the first time I am featuring something from my personal wardrobe on this segment. 

I have to be honest- The first time I shared a picture of the necklace-as much as everyone loved it-some of my readers and friends had a few reservations about it.

Most of them felt that you can only wear it white or neutrals and not with bright shades and prints.

I have worn this necklace with white {at Inglot event}, dark brown {at Toni&Guy Hair Meet Wardrobe launch} and bright yellow {at the launch of Trinny & Susannah ‎Makeover Mission India}. 

With the right styling the necklace can easily be styled in many different ways.
Keeping the latest trends as well classic styles in mind, here are few of my neon layered statement necklace styling options.

Casual: As glamorous as the necklace maybe, it can easily be styled for a casual look. Paring the necklace with a soft beige lace top, pink coloured jean, coral tone bag and nude wedges this look is ideal for a brunch date or family gathering over the weekend.

The beige of the top acts as a subtle background for the necklace without stealing its thunder.

Classic: One does not often hear the words neon statement necklace and ornate print in the same statement.
However, when paired together the look can be either drop dead gorgeous or a complete train wreck.
To really make this combination-neon statement necklace and ornate print-work, the print colour has to be in a contrasting shade. 

For an elegant look ideal for high tea or gallery opening, pair the necklace with a midnight blue dress and silver shoes. Polish the look off with tangerine bag and pink lipstick.

Street Style: If there is one place where a trend is tried and tested in every possible way, it is the streets of fashion.
The one trend that has been the darling of street style fashion and caught the fancy of everyone from bloggers to editors, is the neon trend.

Pairing a classic white ladylike blouse, with an eye catching neon full skirt and black bling clutch, the look is bound to have a few heads turn your way. Add a pair of cobalt blue pumps and the neon layered necklace and you are set to stop traffic with this look.
From Fashion Week to first date, this look can take a girl everywhere!

Style Tip for wearing statement necklace: Avoid wearing long dangling earrings with statement necklace. More statement necklace styling ideas here and here. 

Even though the neon trend is on its way out, this necklace has an evergreen look to it. It can be worn with any style, at anytime round the year.

Like me, are you a statement necklace person? And what type of statement necklace do you like to wear? Share your views in the comment section.

Till then, tra-la,

 Amena!!

 Connect With Fashionopolis on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Bloglovin' & Subscribe
Instagram: @a_fashionopolis
email me- a.fashionopolis@gmail.com

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Monsoon Beauty & Make-Up Must-Haves

Here’s a fact: I am not a monsoon person. I just am not! While others see beauty in this season, I only see four months of inconvenience and bad hair days.

Come monsoon season, my hair and skin have a personality of their own. They start to behave like ill-mannered children and no amount of taming, begging God can control them.

However, this year I finally decided to make sure that I am in control of the uncontrollable. 

Even before the monsoon clouds hit Bombay, I was ready to face the rainy season head-on.
After much experimentation, trying and testing here are a few of my monsoon must-haves skin and hair care products -for oily plus sensitive skin and combination oily scalp and dry hair-as well plus my fave makeup product.

Beauty-Skin & Hair Care:

Moisturizer: Since I have oily skin, for the longest time I used to never use mosturizer in summer and monsoons. All this changed when a friend pointed out that one has to use mosturizer year round; just make sure it is both skin and season friendly.
I have been using Acnemoist (prescribed by my dermatologist) for a few years. However, this year I decided to swap that for good old Lacto Calamine. I originally started using Lacto Calamine-Hydration- when I got a heat rash, and since it worked wonders I have continued to use it through the monsoon season. So far no complains.

Toner: Facial toner is the best friend of people with oily skin. It provides a deeper cleanse, 









tighten open and enlarged pores and helps correct P.H. balance of the skin.

What I love about The Body Shop Vitamin E Hydrating Toner is that it helps control the excess oil without eroding the natural oil of the face skin. The end result is smooth, non-shinny skin. Since it is alcohol free it is ideal for oily, acne-prone and sensitive skin.

Lip Balm: I am someone who is blessed with healthy lips. In fact, that is the only part of my face I do not need to worry about. Two reasons why I have healthy lips: One, I drink ample water, two, I use lip balm year round.
After using a non flavoured one for a while, I wanted a flavoured on but a non-fruity for a change.
 I decided to get myself Nivea's 'Soft Rose' lipcare tube and totally feel in love with its gentle rose scent (there is no discernible taste on the lips). Since it is tinted in nature it adds a hint of soft pink colour and sheen to the lips. It does a great job at moisturizing and protecting (SPF 10) the lips and gives them a fresh and healthier look.

Body Wash: In a weather where most of us need to take a bath twice a day, a shower gel is a great way pamper the skin.

My mom recently picked up Nivea's new shower gels - Power Fruit Relax and Water Lily and Oil. While my mom is totally in love with Water Lily and Oil, I prefer the Power Fruit Relax one. I love the pleasant fruity fragrance it has and along with cleansing it moisturizes the skin making it soft and smooth.

Hair Serum: Sometimes, I feel there is not enough hair serum in the world to get me through monsoon.
For a while now, everyone I know has been raving about a miracle called Moroccanoil. I finally understood what they were saying when I got a chance to try out their products at its launch event. Since them I too have become a fan of their products, especially Moroccanoil Treatement 'Light'. 

This is an ideal hair serum for fine hair like mine. Along with protecting the hair it also eliminates frizz and provides a lovely shine. The best feature is that is non-sticky and does not leave any kind of residue. If you have an oily scalp and dry hair, Moroccanoil Treatment Light is an ideal product. I can't wait to try out their shampoo and conditioner after the monsoon.

 Body Mist: I love perfumers, but in monsoons I prefer using body mist. They are light and refreshing. I do not step out of the house without spraying a healthy dose of body mist. In fact, every bag of mine has one body mist in it. Body mist helps control body odour and freshens you up.
My current faves are The Body Shop's 'Moroccan Rose', Victoria's Secret's 'Sweet Daydream' and La Senza's 'Body Kiss'.

My monsoon season must-have beauty and make up treasure trove.

Makeup:

Coloured Eye Pencil: As much as I love my classic back kohl eye pencil, I am currently loving the colourful variant; electric blue being my favourite. I love the instant colour pop it adds to a look.
The biggest problem with blue eye pencil is that they smudge very fast. On oily skin that can be a very problematic thing. However, that is not the case with Oriflame's Very Me Double Trouble 'Blue Lagoon' eye pencil. They offer two very pretty shades of blue-dark and light- that do not smudge easily as well as last for a good amount of time, especially when applied on the eyelid.

Bright Lipstick: My name is Amena and I am a lipstick junkie. While I love all shades of lipsticks, I have always been partial towards the bold and bright shades. My summer was all things red and now I am crushing on shades of pink.
While I have a few pink shades, my current fave is L'Oreal Paris' 'Pink Passion'. Ever since I got it I have literally been wearing it to every outing. For starters, the shade is eye catching, plus, the lipstick is very well hydrated, making it easy to apply. Great colour, smooth application and long lasting, a total win-win situation.

Colourful Nail Polish: Ever since nail art became a phenomena, colourful nail polishes have been a hot fave.
 I recently had a chance to try out Inglot nail polish. A wide variety of colours to choose from, it is a must buy for all nail polish lovers. For starters, the nail polish does not chip off easily, in fact it last for a good 10 days and most importantly it does not leave a residue after removal.

Gel Eyeliner: I have never been able to master the art of applying liquid eyeliner. When gel eyeliners were introduced i the Indian market I instantly feel in love with them. They are easy to use and have a very good lasting time.
From the moment it was launched I have been using L'Oreal Paris Super Gel Eyeliner. It is the only gel eye liner I have used. Along with being oily skin friendly it does not smudge or run easily. I wear lenses and the liner has never hampered or spoilt the lenses. For someone who wears eye lens a non-flaky, non-irritating, water proof eyeliner is a catch.

 Lip Gloss: While I am obsessing over bright colour lipsticks, my lip gloss preference is more towards the neutral shades. Just something to add a hint of colour and shine to the lips.
 I am currently using Inglot's Sleeks lip gloss. What I really love about it is, it helps me enhance my natural pout and give a lovely shine to the lips. After using this lip gloss, I can't wait to get my hands of Inglot 3D lip gloss. That is bound to be something!

 Since I have oily and sensitive skin I stay away from thick foundation. I am currently looking for an oily skin friendly compact or base that will help control the shine and excessive oil from my face.

Please Note: The beauty and make up products mentioned above are not exclusive to monsoon season and can be used year round. Since I have been benefiting from them in the monsoon, they have been featured on my monsoon mush-have list.

Before using any of these products please make sure that they are the right match for your skin and hair type.
 All products have been tried and tested by me for over  a period of 2 weeks.



What all do you do to take care of your skin and hair during monsoons? And what are your monsoon beauty and make-up must-haves? Share your views with me in the comment section.

Till then, tra-la,

 Amena!!

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