Dare Brave, Speak Bold

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While I’m sitting here blank infront of the laptop pasting all these pictures on my blog with my hands almost not being able to figure out whether to give life lessons on this “end of the year” blogpost, or to just write valuable fashion tips. Well, as hard as it gets, I really would like to reminisce and contemplate on the occurrences that 2017 has made me experience as I am typing these with my heart poured out.

Most of this may seem intuitive, but life is funny in what it throws at you and how it takes you for abrupt twists and turns. This year brought a few drastic changes and opened my eyes to recognize pretentious figures; who often are not how they seem.  Change is imminent and ever-occurring – most of us can live with that, but when change is metamorphic, it can feel scary and lonely all at the same time. That’s where we start to have problems.
Just typing down a few helping me outlast the wear and tear…

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3-6 months will bring you unexpected changes

Just until 4 months of 2017, I never knew or imagined being in the situation  I’m in today. How many of you can say the same? I know I’m being super vague here, even though 3-6 months feel like a small portion of time in the grand scheme of things, but a lot can happen in that little window. Never think that you’re in a situation that cannot be changed – no matter how good or bad it is.

I have planned quite a lot of things to be done in a year, but time often is said to be a bitch and puts you into situations that will break your heart and build you to be a stronger person you never thought you’d become. Planning things beforehand has left me empty in most cases.

Whatever you’re going through will change eventually, just a matter of time. Go with the flow, and always expect the unexpected.

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Someone who claims to be a good friend may turn into a snake

First of all, honestly, you don’t need a lot of friends or people in your life – only a few amazing people who are willing to go as far for you as you would for them.Friends can be the best and worst things that will ever happen to you. A true test of friendship comes when life heads south. Find and pick those people carefully. Trust people until they give you good reasons not to – especially amid separation or a break up. It’s often difficult for mutual friends to “pick a side”, but watch those words and actions carefully. It becomes obvious when “neutrality” is really a covert bias. Having said that, recognize the toxic actions that warrant unwinding years of friendship and give people time to show themselves.

And when the snake changes it’s skin, kill it.

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Even the best fall down sometime; 

No matter how great someone may be in something and no matter how perfect their life looks, you can’t help bad things to stop happening to good people. Taking good things for-granted may be the silliest thing to do, you never know while life hits you with it’s lessons.

Life is shorter than you think

We all say it but there comes a time, for everyone, when this truth actually sinks in and nestles somewhere in our brains, affecting every single little thing that we do. This happened for me in 2017 and I am so very glad it did. There is no longer anything ‘kept for best’ or ‘saved for a rainy day’. It is all used and enjoyed and appreciated, right here, right now.

Keep your private life private; even if you have to be in denial in public

The crucial lesson I’ve learned the hard way is to keeping private life to yourself and yourself only. No body has to know what’s going on around. And by private I mean, your relationship, future plans, financial abilities and your next move. Even if you have to fake it to others, do that. Be in denial; but never give in. The hard way teaches you the most valuable lessons in life and I finally know the contemplation of the quote,

“Travel and tell no one, live a true love story and tell no one, live happily and tell no one, people ruin beautiful things.”
― Kahlil Gibran

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 Nobody really knows or needs to know your story

Nor do you really know or need to know theirs. Don’t judge if you can help it – we are all doing the very best we can and we all have our troubles to face when we turn out the lights at night. If you can start each day seeing everyone without judgement and with fresh eyes, you will make decisions that come from the heart. Learn to spread the light instead of casting shade. Judging others for doing things differently only makes you a terrible human.

 

Do things that helps others; increase your productivity

Even if it is a tiny little thing; all we can possibly spare that day, it matters. Instead of spending unnecessary time and money, utilize it in things that will do greater good. Craft ideas that will help the mass and spend on things that will give you a great outcome. Do charity works and make someone smile.

Be wherever you are; do things that makes you happy

Lastly, I am leaving this year with the realization that life is about so much more than destinations, it is about the journey. The journey is every bit as important as the final goal. Stop and smell the roses along the way. Be where you are, be fully, really-fully, there. Don’t be continuously distracted by the next thing. Ignore what you ‘COULD’ have – focus on what you HAVE.
By the term, ‘do things that make you happy’ does not refer to doing what the heck ever you want and using people for your own benefit. I have seen people entirely using others for self benefits and that specific trait makes them so happy !
Lowering your standards to have a smile on your face makes you a ‘hoe’.

As straight forward as it gets, be a woman with standard and dignity. Once you lose it, you lose it forever. 
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Make-up and Photography by : Fabiha Atiq 

Styled by yours truly ❤

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Coffee and Business

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There were times when coffee shops used to be a place for casual hangouts every other day. Life gets so busy and surrounded by responsibilities as you grow, which is when coffee shops are most of the times  for business meetings and deals.

Why most people consider coffee shops for talking business? 

Business isn’t just conducted while at work. It can happen anywhere. Small businesses, large businesses, entrepreneurs, they all appreciate the atmosphere of a local coffee shop for meetings and doing projects. Free wifi, great beverages, and a hit playlist for their background music make business people everywhere choose a coffee place rather than somewhere else if they have the option.

And then there is the coffee of course !

North End Roasters has so far been my favorite coffee places of all time. Their coffees are reasonable with good brunch menus, along with the ambiance and service.

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Things to note down before you set a meeting at a coffee shop: 

1. Choose a location both parties are familiar with:
Familiarity is important when having a coffee shop meeting. Meeting in a location you know can help you feel more comfortable. You will know how to get there, where to park, and where to sit. You will also know whether or not the café has Wi-Fi, or it is the ideal setting to meet a client.

2. Bring all the techs you need:
Being prepared for any meeting is important to make it a productive one. However, meeting at a coffee shop comes with its own unique considerations. Make sure you come with all the technology you’ll need for your interview – laptop, smartphone, tablet, etc. Also, make sure your devices are fully charged, and bring their chargers, just in case.

3. Be early and set things up: 
Arriving early gives you the chance to set up, get your computer ready, and find a great spot to sit. It also gives you a few minutes to prepare, review notes and to relax to get you prepared

4. Buy Coffees and snacks: 
Always offer to buy the coffee, especially if you are the one who set up the meeting. It’s also considerate to buy some snacks, especially if you plan to meet for more than an hour. Don’t forget to save the receipt and track it as a business expense.

5. Stick to the agreed meeting time: 
It’s common for meetings to run long, especially at coffee shops. Since you are in a more casual environment, it’s common for the conversation to become more casual, as well. However, if you plan to meet for an hour, let’s say from 1pm to 2pm, as 2pm approaches, ask your client if they have to leave. This shows you respect their time. If they agree to keep chatting, great – carry on!

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Dress appropriate: 

When it’s about meeting a potential business client, it’s very important to keep in mind to dress appropriate. Keep it simple and casual; and don’t overdo your make up. The only accessory you will be needing is your watch and a nice bag. If it’s winter, a plain sweater would make you look more professional than probably a shawl wrapped around.

Last but not the least, be confident, prepare your presentation the night before and don’t be nervous while stating your desired proposals and the budget for the business collaboration. After all, this is your profession and you are only learning and keeping it professional like you’re supposed to.

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Outfit Details: 

Sweater : Huadi Weizun

Flare Trouser : Topshop

Watch : Tissot

Bag : Balmain

Pumps : Sole Society

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The Posh Affair X Khimaar

This blog post is mostly going to be about how to look classy and not overdone with make-up and 2 pieces of cloth over your body.
Let’s get it straight, a lot of you may be thinking when it comes to night glam, its all about loud glitters, bold eye make ups and undying layers of foundation, but seriously, learning to go easy on your skin is necessary. It’s not a lot of make up that makes you look good, but to know the ways to apply the right amount of everything on your face.

To me, the whole point  of make up is to look presentable in a way where people may indirectly pass judgements like, “gosh, she’s wearing too much make-up”!

Well people will judge anyway, but let’s learn to make it worthwhile, shall we?

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so, this was a quick shot of my sneak-peek with NO make up and just a lipstick. 

 

The whole point of makeup

Is to look like you’re not wearing any. And also to perfect your complexion, enhance your features and make you look prettier. I firmly believe that we all need to work on nailing the natural look FIRST.

You should be spending at least 50% of your makeup application time on your SKIN

The good news is that there are so many skin-perfecting products now that do the job without being heavy or at all detectable.

 

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HOW TO NOT LOOK OVERDONE:

Finding the right makeup to wear when you’re going for a natural look can be more complex than you think. You don’t want anything too cakey, too bright, or too dark. And we all know, that looking natural does indeed require SOME makeup application – and some skill, too.

1. Moisturize. Creating a the perfect base for your makeup is very important. Moisturizer benefits your skin by hydrating, and promotes anti-aging benefits. It will even out your skin texture creating a perfect palette to begin your makeup routine.

2. Conceal. Hide away any dark circles, fine lines or blemishes with a concealer. This will get rid of any imperfections and leave your skin looking flawless.

3. Powder or light foundation. I recommend to use a powder or an airy liquid foundation. The illusion that we’re going for is natural makeup, so using a thick cakey makeup doesn’t make sense. Be sure to apply evenly with a brush or sponge for an even, non-streaky, look and your face will appear naturally perfect.

4. Subtle blush. Depending on your skin color, blush colors will vary – but peaches  tend to look great on everyone. Blend in to your natural cheekbone line where pink undertones normally show.

5. Neutral shadows. Apply a neutral color over your lids for a muted but beautiful eye. Choose a color that is just a shade or two darker than your skin tone. If you want to go for a glam look, brush your crease with a bit darker shadows to make it look more dramatic.

6. Nude lip. When choosing a lip color, go for the light pinks, peaches and sand colors. Always remember, when you have a bold, dramatic eye look, go for muted shades of lipstick. Dark eyes and dark lips are an utter disastrous combo.

7. A little or a lot of Mascara. applying atleast 3 layers of mascara gives a 100/100 points on a perfect dramatic glam look.

8. Yes liner. Eyeliner is great for a dramatic eye. Don’t apply any eyeliner or kajal on the bottom. Invalidates the whole purpose of looking pretty with makeup.

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Last but not the least,

Dress classy.

Dressing up matters so much to elevate your look from looking homeless to flaunting on the red carpets. This black cape from Khimaar collection  is a statement piece and I’m so in love with how it instantly gives a posh vibe when you walk literally anywhere.
The color black will forever have an undying demand, and it surely made a place in my heart,especially with those 3D floral hand works.

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Outfit Details :

Mauve Pink Cape and Old Rose Hijab : Khimaar Collection

White Diamond Watch : Tissot Watches

Shoes : Fabianno Ricco 

Arm Candy : H&M Accessories

Perfume : Nina Ricci 

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Rosé Khaleesi X Khimaar

The cape has always exerted a mysterious and magical appeal. It is undoubtedly a great way to add elegance and ‘I feel like a Queen’ vibe to your  wardrobe in any season.

Talking about which, I have came across this amazing brand who happens to be really low-key but with ‘a class- apart’ designs in every outfit on their racks. Just walking into their store itself gave me the calm that I was looking for my eyes. I’m talking about Khimaar Collection based and nurtured in Dhaka and designed in Canada by a beautiful soul and designer named Ayesha Ansari. 

Being honest, I am very picky when it comes to outfit selection. If the clothes are not soothing to my eyes, I have no option, but to walk away from it.

Surprisingly, I have finally found a store where I can have an open heart and slide my hands over the beautiful fabrics hung over the racks and the designs made. And their wide array of Hijabs are just what I love and will highly recommend as a fashion influencer. They have every sort of scarves you’ve been looking for all your life, starting from regular wears to ultimate glams; super wide in length and width just for you to find peace in styling however you like.


Do I have to justify the title Rosé Khaleesi still? 

Khaleesi and Khimaar are quite inseparable and co-related. 

This custom made khimaar/cape comes with shoulder and sleeve embellished with 3D handmade flowers and classic shiny stones, and believe me, the moment I draped this beautiful piece on my body, I have lived every moment I carried it with me. It is super comfy and a perfect piece to get a not-so-dressy but ‘you’re so extra on the red carpet’ feel.

I am literally obsessed with mauve tones of pink and I can say “I OWN IT” ! Which is why, despite of Ayesha having so many other wonderful colors on her Khimaar rack, the first thing I did after I entered her store was “PUT YOUR HANDS ON THAT MAUVE, ABAYAHOLIC!!! THIS COLOR IS LIFE RIGHT THERE SCREAMING YOUR NAME!” 


I’m not even kidding.

You know what I love so much about this attire? It’s the fact that, you don’t have to waste so much time accessorizing and deciding what to pair it with. A sleeveless inner did the job perfect for me. I just had to match the Hijab and accessorize it with an arm candy, a watch, a sling bag and a nice pair of heels. Make-up plays the biggest role in look transformation. I hate hate hate, absolutely hate overdone make-up and try to keep it as neutral as possible.
This year was a win win for me; and that moment of joy when my fragrance by Gucci matched my outfit was priceless.

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Flat-lay photographed by Mumtahana Elahi
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Flatlay photographed by Mumtahana Elahi

This Khimaar is perfect evening-wear to feel like a ‘Queen’ and you never have to look back.

To me, elegance is everything. It’s not about how expensive your clothes are. It’s about how you carry it with the confidence in you. Our confidence is what makes us the person we are and grants us the strength to grow, without having to bother about what others think of us. You may wear not too expensive clothes, and still feel like a Diva, and honestly, I LOVE & APPRECIATE that charm in a person.  Be bold, be brave and have the strength to uplift someone with the style you carry; after-all, your style speaks louder than words.

And always remember, never bother listening to ‘constructive criticism’ from someone who has not constructed anything. It’s very easy passing judgment and comments from across the screen, until you ask them to get out of their comfort zone and do something to change the world which the mass will appreciate.

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Photographed by : Faiza Kabir Simran

Outfit Details :

Mauve Pink Cape and Old Rose Hijab : Khimaar Collection

Sling bag : Michael Kors 

Watch : Alba Watch

Shoes : Fabianno Ricco 

Arm Candy : H&M Accessories

Perfume :Gucci 

Summer Essentials X S C I C C O S O

Stylish, versatile, and summer-friendly—the kimono is a season staple that will add flair to your daily summer outfits. You can simply pair it with an undemanding assemblage of basics (think: a plain top/t-shirt + trousers + jeans duo) to incorporate the right amount of substance and structure into your look. Whether simple and plain or printed in vibrant colors and patterns, adding a kimono to your summer wardrobe is a quintessential way to finish off your look.

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Regardless of its cut ( as they come in millions of them) it always adds just the right amount of razzmatazz to a look, to the point that even if you’re at home, in your worst shorts or PJs, and throw one on, you’ll end up looking fab while having coffee.

The kimono I’m wearing comes in a combination of 2 fabrics, Georgette and printed Organza. The best part about this piece is, I randomly kind of started pairing my ordinary chopped taper and a plain t-shirt that I wear at home with this kimono and a beautiful Kashkha, and you can see the end results in the pictures above and below.

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You can shop this look at S C I C C O S O.

 

Outfit Details :

Kashkha Scarf :  S C I C C O S O

Kimono  : S C I C C O S O

Trousers : NEXT

T- shirt : H&M

Watch : ALBA WATCHES

Photographed byAyefa Sharmin