The Denim Fetish!!!

The Denim Fetish - Rupika Chopra

Blame it on the Jeans! 

Hello Denim Lovers!

“The Denim Mania” is ON!!! Indeed the love for it can never be moderate for any generation. As far as I can remember, I have been obsessed with Jeans, Dungarees, and denim skirts from childhood. Needless to say Denim is still on top of my list of favourites like for most of you. Anything well cut in this strong fabric always adds a cool edge. I remember when I was in college, I had collected about 65 pairs of Jeans mostly in boot cut from Wranglers, Pepe London and of course my favourite High Waisted – Drain Pipe style from Levi Strauss. Needless to explain I am a “Denim Addict”! What more could one have asked for, as having the best pair of Jeans was nothing less than adorning a Crown. My favourite flared denims added to the cool cowgirl vibe. I am still mad about them – they simply change my gait. The kind of Denim one chooses to wear talks a lot about one’s personality. Quarantine spent well with my parents, I dived into the collection of my favourite pairs and felt over the moon, for only a “Real Denim Lover” can understand the “pricelessness” of these “collectables”. 

The Denim Fetish - Rupika Chopra

Jeans were invented by Jacob W. Davis and Levi Strauss on May 20th, 1873. The word “Jeans” got named after the city of Geona in Italy, a place where the cotton corduroy was manufactured. Levi Strauss was a businessman from Germany and during the Gold Rush period in 1853, he moved to San francisco, trying to establish his family business by selling goods and cotton denim fabric was one of them.

Let me share with you that Levi Strauss was the first one to make denim out of Hemp. They made the first pair of Jeans with “Hemp Canvas”, blending it with certified organic cotton. This is something to be absolutely proud of!!!  Levi is a Global Leader and is also known as the “Face of Denim”.

Now that the world is trying to walk the path of awareness – “Sustainable Clothing” is surely a way forward for most brands now. From luxury to the high street one’s, all are choosing to go as green as possible. Of course there is a lot being made out of “recycled denim” and responsibly sourced cotton. The consumers are making conscious choices, compelling manufacturers to adapt ways to reduce the carbon print on the planet. 

The Denim Fetish - Rupika Chopra

The Denim Fetish - Rupika Chopra

Jacob W. Davis was a tailor and he made functional items like tents, horse blankets, wagon covers etc. On demand from one of his clients for a long lasting outfit for the mining workforce, Davis landed up buying the denim material from Levi Strauss. He designed the sturdy workwear for miners in the West. He added “copper rivets” at the places pants rip off easily, with pockets and a button fly. The design was unique and he wanted to patent the pants, so he wrote to Levi Strauss and joined hands with him as a partner and launched the magnificently known as – “JEANS”.

The Denim Fetish - Rupika Chopra

Jeans had now arrived as an “independent masterpiece”, evolving from the position of merely being a uniform for hard tasks. Denim being made from cotton was easy to breathe in and wash. It’s blue colour gave it an individual identity. In the 1920’s and 30’s, Jeans became popular western wear in the United States. Further modifications were made – Jeans now had the back pockets as well, making Levi Strauss the first designer to have his label on the outside. The Durability of the Fabric made it extremely popular among all. It became desirable and a no fuss dress code for everyone. Followed by that, was a glamours model featured in the Vogue magazine in the 1930’s, flaunting Denim on the cover, showcasing it’s relevance in the fashion Industry.

The Denim Fetish - Rupika Chopra

The Denim Fetish - Rupika Chopra

Elvis Presley was one of the first celebrities to popularize Jeans among others in the Pop culture absolutely adored them. The famous boys like James Dean and Marlon Brando made them exceedingly fashionable by filming in them. That was the real revolution time  – The Rebel, The Sexy, The Strong, The Fascinating, The Rugged – Denim defined it all!!!

The Hippie movement rocked the American culture in the 1960’s adorning the Denim Jackets and making Casual Blue torn Jean a representation of freedom.

Then came a phase of personalising Jeans, making them Hip with embellishments, patches and embroidery. And how can we not mention the Ripped Faded Flared Jeans that were a “Cult” in itself to begin with. Anyone seen wearing them was akin to being a “Revolutionary”. 

The Denim Fetish - Rupika Chopra

The “Denim Trend”so as to say, brought out a new attitude in Americans. The youngsters embraced the Blue Jeans making it the new cool. The Designer jeans took on the band wagon in the 80’s and the trend has never witnessed a pause since. Some of the most glamorous models in the past, got temperatures soaring in the high waisted drainpipes and white shirts. Brooke Shields, Cindy Crawford, Janice Dickinson, Jerry Hall among others sizzled in Denim making it most stylish for everyone. I won’t forget a video of Cindy Crawford working out on the beach, wearing the Denim Hot Pants with the sports bra. She simply looked like a GODDESS!! Needless to say, the Denim fad was lasting forever. It has continued to charm the world since it’s inception, evolving even today with the most beguiling designs.

The denim Fetish - Rupika Chopra

The Denim Fetish - Rupika Chopra

Remember pop stars performing in the 2000’s with the Ultra Low Rise denims with Swrovskies all over them. I remember Britney Spears doing her fancy number in them. Denim has always been redefined from time to time.

The skinny jeans in the 2000’s came with a special stretch technology, that allowed women to flaunt their legs unapologetically. Styles like Mom jeans, Boyfriend, High Waisted Wide Straights, Culotte, High Waisted Vintage Boots Cuts, Skinnies, Baggy Paper bag, Slouchy etc. are back with a bang at present. It is not only confined to Jeans but denim jumpsuits, shorts, dresses, shirts, crop tops etc. all are tastefully available at many brands like Zara, H&M, D&G, True Religion, Diesel, Armani etc.

I fell in love with the Denim dress I am wearing. It is casual and chic. You see what I mean……..when one wears a well cut denim outfit or jeans – it doesn’t need any validation for it talks for itself. It’s an ambassador of your personality.

Denim will always be in Vogue - Rupika Chopra

The Denim Fetish - Rupika Chopra

One can simply choose to look classic or wild with the style of denim one chooses to wear. These High Waisted Boot Cut Jeans are my favourite as they hug me perfectly. You can always change your look with the footwear you choose – boots, heels or sneakers change the vibe. Somehow, denim makes styling easy. Choose your favourite shirt or a T -shirt / tank top and you are ready to roll. Being a Cowgirl at heart – I mostly lean towards the flared styles. Brands I love are Levis,  J brand, Wrangler, True Religion, Versace, For All Mankind, Acne Studio, Naked & Famous, Zara, Hollister,etc. 

It is indeed remarkable to see Denim being one of the few materials to have travelled far and wide across the world. and the fact remains that this iconic creation is here for eternity!!! The Denim Industry is estimated to produce $129.8 billion of sales by 2021. Quarantine has had many set backs on the apparel industry but the online sales have been booming. With in days, the new styles are out of stock, which is a vivid proof of Denim being a permanent Fetish!!!

Ladies and Gentleman! This iconic creation is here to RULE!

Need I say more…..Nah!!!  Let your Denim do the talking!!!

xoxo

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Power Up in Suits!!!

Power Up in Suits - Rupika Chopra

Power Dressing is SIMPLY SEXY: 

“Clothes maketh the Man” has been the famous saying which became popular from the 16th Century. And when it comes to being perked up in a well cut suit,  it better make you look beyond “dapper”. Power dressing has always been the real meat for me in my closet. It has so much to say with those fine cuts. It defines your persona and gives a no nonsense vibe. It defines your determined outlook towards life.

Power dressing is classy and reflects a personality of a person, potent with style, discipline, vision, integrity, responsibility, grace and character. Power dressing has always been used by men and women to dignify themselves and their positions, in the field of their work. Power dressing sets the tone for an individual to be treated in a respectable manner. Wearing a well cut suit is like a silent command to others to deliver their best and be treated with a sense of clout.

Power Up in Suits - Rupika Chopra

“Suiting up”  has a lot to do with how you feel about yourself. The way one carries one’s suit, is a real art of displaying grace and grandeur. 

In 1870’s Actress Sarah Bernhardt scandalized Paris by wearing a “custom made suit”. It liberated women and they wore these suits for riding, walking and outdoor activities. These “Boy Clothes” became the place of salvation for women. 

Gabriella Coco Chanel gifted the world with “Timeless Suits” in the year 1914 that gave women a sense of freedom and power among men.  

Women took to Pant – Suit in the 1920’s with “hats” and looked exclusive. 

Katherine Hepburn supported the masculine look with much oomph and resplendence. She was called “The First Lady Of Menswear”. She also supported power shoulders during the 1930’s, proving she was far sighted with her “rebellious fashion sense”.

The “hulky” shoulders were loved by the most glamorous women of the time like Joan Crawford, Ann Blyth, Audrey Hepburn, Elizabeth Taylor, Natalie wood, etc. were all seen in the dynamic “waist hugging suits”. 

Power Up in Suits - Rupika Chopra

And the trend continued to spark the fashion scene for decades. Even today, I run to my blazers if I want that edge over other outfits. I wear the blazers on torn denims, pants, skirts, dresses and shorts. A well cut jacket or even a loose style suit gives you much eminence to make heads turn.

From Royal Women to the professionals all have looked spectacular in their outfits in the 1980’s. Princess Diana was immaculately dressed in them making “power dressing” a phenomenon. 

Power Up in Suits - Rupika Chopra

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“Power dressing” was a phrase originally used in the 1970’s in America and by the 1980’s everyone was wearing the debonair outfit. Tailored Jackets, shoulder pads, tapered pants and slim cut skirts were the coolest innovation.

The look was at it’s peak when Michael Jackson wore a “suit” in his famous song “Smooth Criminal” in 1988.  The famous movie “Working Girl” gave a new sense of being to women evolving with a “fearless demeanour” in the 80’s. 

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Many women in the political scenario fell in love with the empowering sets. Jacqueline Kennedy was a benchmark of grace and her streamlined suits were marvellously worn with pearls and hats. Margaret Thatcher, Hillary Clinton etc. have adorned suits with much  sophistication as well.

And the trend continued to spark the fashion scene for decades.  In the present scenario they have made a gallant come back with bold prints and cuts. They are being worn to every occasion. From formal to casual, now suits are worn with a pair of heels and cool sneakers as well. Depends on how you want to look.

Remember the very talented singer, Lady Gaga recently wore an oversized suit to the Elle Magazine’s Women in Hollywood Event. She looked endearing!!!

I can never forget a picture of Eva Mendes flaunting her well toned curves in a perfectly tailored suit. She looked beyond vivacious. The saying less is more – Well in this case – more is certainly leaving the world restless ! 🙂

Sneakers worn with suits look urban, cool yet affirmative and desirable. With super formal suits like mine one can choose to also wear flat shoes or white sneakers and stand apart.

Brands like D&G, Sandro, Kooples, Topshop, Zara, Marc Jacobs, Whistles, Balmain, Alexander McQueen, Givenchy, Marina Rinaldi, Elisabetta Franchi, Mango, La Vie Rebbeca Taylor, Nordstrom, ASOS etc. have some great collection of suits that one check out. 

Power Up in Suits - Rupika Chopra

 

My black Tux looks rather sexy and sophisticated. I love this suit for its confident, charming, suave vibe.  It fits me like a glove and also is beautifully designed with detailing on the pants and jacket . An outfit like this one is enough to make you feel nothing less than a bond girl.

I am absolutely in love with the “Pink Suit” I am wearing. I styled it all formal with pearls and heels. This outfit looks spectacular when worn to any formal event. From shows, events, promotions, parties to after parties you will look charismatic and stunningly poised.  One can carry a classic Chanel bag or a simple bag that adds to the simplicity of the outfit with a fresh and minimalistic make up and let your personality shine through it.

I feel a “suit” allows you to be “UNAPOLOGETICALLY YOURSELF”!!! 

So grab yours this season and flatter your senses!!

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Pink Suit : ZARA , Pink shoes : LYN, Shirt : ZARA , Black Tux : ZARA , Bag : CHANEL,    Black Shoes : L.K. BENNETT 

 

“HAT” is my “CROWN”!!!

The Panama Hat :

Panama Hat - Rupika Chopra

Panama Hat - Rupika Chopra

Panama Hat - Rupika Chopra

Hello Hat Lovers !!!

I have been a “Hat lover” and a collector from the sweet days of childhood. Hat is my favourite accessory and I own an enormous collection. From Fedoras to Visor, Base ball to Floppy Sun Hats, Derby Hats, Cowboy, Panama, Cloche, Beret, Golf cap, Trilby, Qawwali, Feather Hats, Regional Hats, and many more funky one’s – I have them all 🙂 and I wear them like a “Queen” wears her “CROWN” !!!

“A HAT is my HALO” !! I love my hat collection because each one has a story and character of their own. Hat contains thought. It reflects nobility, decorum and pride. 

I would say a Hat is as important an accessory as a pair of sunglasses, shoes or bags. It protects from the harmful UV rays and also are a great way to protect yourself from weather conditions. It prevents skin damage, improves body temperature, protects hair from sun damage, protects the eyes from harsh sun glare and beyond that looks sexy and stylish without a doubt!! 

Adorning a “HAT ” reflects nobility and there is a subtle message of class, grace and tradition and it also equates to having an opinion. Come to think of it, a “Hat” dignifies your demeanour. It is clearly a knack of carrying a “Hat” perfectly and not many can pull it off with panache.

Hats have been a part of the uniform of the Military, Navy, Graduation Ceremonies, Sports, Noble professions and of course have taken over the fashion scenario for centuries. Remember the legend Gabriella Chanel – she knew it well how to look classic wearing a clouche and lacy hats with her timeless dresses. 

I believe you should let your Hat do the talking – none the less I am never short of words to express how special they are in my life!!

Panama Hat - Rupika Chopra

Panama Hats :

These hats that I am wearing in different colours are Panama Hats and they are one of my favourite summer hats made exclusively in Ecuador. 

Ecuador was the first one to make them in 1800’s but Ecuador was not the high tourist destination in the 1850’s. So the clever hat makers from Ecuador took the hats to Panama to make more business. In 1800’s many Americans went to California during the Gold Rush times and Panama is where they first saw these gorgeous light weight hats and wore them on their journey making them popular and appreciated.

Panama Hat - Rupika Chopra

Panama Hat - Rupika Chopra

The hat makers sold hundreds of hats to the gold prospects travelling from Panama to California during the Historic Californian Gold Rush. When travellers were appreciated for their hats, they told the world they got them from Panama, making them popular as Panama Hats leaving Ecuador’s name behind.

Another reason of their popularity as Panama Hats is also because of the construction of the Panama Canal in the 1880’s. The canal workers would wear these light weight sun protecting hats and were photographed many a times building the canal. Soon their pictures were circulated around the world and the workers became famous wearing Hats from Panama.

White Panama Hat - Rupika Chopra

White Panama Hat - Rupika Chopra

Many years later The President of United States, Theodore Roosevelt was photographed many times wearing the attractive “straw hat” in PANAMA and there on, it was etched in as a fashion accessory from Panama and it was too late to bring any change to that testimonial.

PANAMA HATS became a global fashion sensation for nearly 200 years and it continues to be one even today. A traditional Panama hat is woven with toquilla palm fibres by skilled artisans in Ecuador.

A classic “Panama Hat” is worn by both men and women. Mostly you will see them being adorned in the tropics and while sailing, the “White Panama” is a classic must have. So with the onset of Spring grab your Panama Hats and look uber cool. 

You can order it online from a trusted source or visit the store Wings and Maniki by Matte Hajselberg at The Boat Avenue, Phuket. 

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The Boaters Hat : 

Women's Boaters Hat - Rupika Chopra

Boaters Hat : 

A Boaters Hat is a summer hat both for men and women. It is made of a thinker weave of Sennit straw. It has a slit flat crown and brim that makes it unique bodied. The legend designer Gabriella Coco Chanel was the first one to wear a boaters hat to a Derby. She created one for herself for the Derby and made them fashionable for women to wear them anywhere in style. Coco Chanel always pushed the norm and created classic designs out of a boaters hat with lace and ribbons.

It became popular in the 19th century and was mostly used by the boaters to protect them from the heat of the sun. Then on straw hat was mostly worn for holidays and summer sports. Below is the hat that is the one worn mostly by men with a smaller rim than the one with the bigger rim mostly worn by women.

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Women's Boaters Hat - Rupika Chopra

Boaters hat is quite popular and it looks stylish with a band on the crown area. People would wear it to seaside outings, yachting clubs, picnics, sporting events. I love this Hat for its vintage elegance.

The thick band adds to its femininity. The black band also gives it a vintage touch. The wider brim covers the face and is appropriately designed for women.

Boaters Hat was also used as a part of the uniform in the 50’s and is still worn as a uniform in the United Kingdom in some schools.

Women's Boaters Hat - Rupika Chopra

 

The Wide Brim Sun Hat:

Wide Brim Sun Hat - Rupika Chopra

The Beach Wide Brim Sun Hat : 

The Wide Brim Sun Hat is simply stylish and is a lot of fun to wear on the beach and I love it because it protects your shoulders along with the entire face. Large Sun hats look very stylish with a coconut in your hand letting the heat off in the sun. It is rightfully also called the “sun helmet”.

I have at least 4 of them in different colours. It’s hard for me to say no to buying hats as I know I will use them so I don’t mind investing in good hats.  They are very much like the characters around me. Funny, but true I have named my hats : Donna, Paula, Rebecca, Sunny etc giggles…..:)

Wide Brim Sun Hat - Rupika Chopra

Large sun hats look chic make a fashion statement. The large summer hat that I am wearing is made of straw but the one’s made with fabric can be worn with summer dresses and gloves as well. They look spectacular !! A large hat like this must have a comfortable inner lining as that makes it comfortable to carry it. A good hat is defined but the way its crown is designed as that defines it structure so always see how the crown fits on your head.

So this summer embrace yourself in a happy looking summer hat 🙂

Wide Brim Sun Hat - Rupika Chopra

 

The Trilby hat : 

Trilby Hat - Rupika Chopra

Trilby Hat - Rupika Chopra

Trilby Hat : 

Trilby is a classic British Hat known for its narrow brim. They are usually made of cotton, linen and wool. Trilby when worn casually adds to the relaxed look. A trilby made of wool looks elegant when worn with some business suits. It is a hat that mostly goes well with most western casual and semi casual outfits as well.

The front brim faces upwards and the back brim is slightly lifted at the back. The Hat’s name was adapted from a play called “Trilby”. The heroine wore the hat on stage and the audiences soon started calling the hat as Trilby.

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There is a certain way to wear a Trilby Hat. Ofcourse the crown is well shaped but the way one wears it and talks a lot about one’s understanding of carrying a this hat.

It was known as the Rich Man’s hat in the 20th Century in Britain. It was a large part of the retro movement. Many rockstars were seen wearing Trilby’s and performing on stage. Trilby is a chic summer hat, worn mostly with casual attire. Just like I am dressed up in a cool white attire, the colourful Trilby is only adding vibrance to my look. So grab your Trilby now, it will never fail to make you look summer trendy.

 

Small Floppy Hat : 

Small Floppy Hat - Rupika Chopra

Small Floppy Hat : 

The Small Floppy Hat is one my go to hats as they not only protect me from the sun but are always easy to carry. This black Floppy Hat is a well woven hat and detailed with a jute string which makes it look vibrant. Basically any hat with a floppy brim is called a Floppy Hat. There is something so happy about the Floppy hats. The large Floppy Hats are glamorous in their own way. The small floppy hats have an easy going carefree boho vibe.

Small Floppy Hat - Rupika Chopra

Black is always sexy and a black hat like this can be easily worn with a casual attire. A large Floppy hat is really for the serious sun protection as that covers a larger area. This one is great to wear to a casual lunch by the beach or even for a walk anywhere. I find the small floppy hats perfect for fun occasions. So grab one for your fun holiday with friends and family.

Small Floppy Hat - Rupika Chopra

 

The Cowboy Hat : 

Cowboy Hat - Rupika Chopra

The Cowboy Hat: 

Ok guys…..I can scream my lungs out for the “Iconic Cowboy hat” !!

Something happens to my vibe when I don on my Cowboy Hat. It is truly my “real crown” as it has much personality of its own. It’s structure is edgy and daring. I feel the hat talks to me and says, ” Go on bend the rules”. It’s upward bent brim makes it very special and distinctive.

I love this Hat so much that I can wear it to a party, a lunch, beach or a dinner…….. just everywhere!! Needless to say this hat is a must have for it is the first thing to get noticed.

Cowboy Hats have a high well defined crown and it’s curved rim sets it apart from others significantly. The Cowboy Hat is most famously worn by the Mexicans and is loved by the west and worn across the world with so much love. It has been quite popularly worn by the Country music singers  and musicians in Mexico.

The First Cowboy hat was designed by John B Stetson back in 1865, during the time of the American Civil War. The Hat was also called the “Boss of the Plains”. No wonder I absorb it’s character and feel like a ” Queen ” adorning it.

Cowboy Hat - Rupika Chopra

It is made of Fur based Felt, Straw and leather. I love them in all avatars. 

A Cowboy Hat exudes confidence of a person who knows what he/she wants. Bands on the hat, accessories, feathers makes it a strong head turner. It’s equivalent to owning an outfit.

I can wear this hat any time. Yes! I love it so much that I can wear it on a saree as well:) But let me share my love for horses and of course for Horse Riding. I am not sure If my love for a Cowboy Hat lead me to love the horses or vice versa. I think each has a special place in my heart and I can’t compare the two. But the fact I love them both makes me feel like a conquerer!! 

So you have enough reason to grab on this “glorified crown” and soar the temperature.

Cowboy Hat - Rupika Chopra

 

The Visor Hat : 

Visor Hat - Rupika Chopra

The Visor Hat : 

Let me make a confession – I travel with a Visor Hat everywhere I go. Yes Everywhere!!!  

Visor is a surface that protects the eyes. Visor is a sporty hat with a strap encircling the head. I love the Visor as it is open on the crown area and is breathable. It has a wider brim than the other hats and it protects the face well.

It is easy to roll and pack in the bag and it never looses its shape when stuffed well. This is an everyday day hat for me both for a city or a beach. Protecting my face and skin are very important to me and this hat is high on utility factor.

 

Visor Hat - Rupika Chopra

Visor was invented by the man who invented the car “Visor” in 1924. The hat was originally called the “Glare Shield” as it was made to prevent one’s eyes from the direct glare of the sun.

It’s adjustable flap at the back makes it very easy to wear. This hat has a good inner lining like most hats do. Even though this hat is crown less it is stylish and looks perfect when worn for sports like golf, volleyball, softball etc. as it protects the eye from direct sunlight. It is happily worn at the beach as well.

If you travel a lot, then this hat is a must have!!!

So get wiser with the Visor 🙂

Visor Hat - Rupika Chopra

 

The Qawwali /Anarkali Hat : 

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The Anarkali / Qawwali Hat :

Qawwali is a form of Sufi Islamic devotional music originating from South Asia and is popular in Punjab and Sindh regions of Pakistan. It is very famous in the North of India and being an Indian, I thought I could not give this one a miss, especially when I own a Qawwali Hat. It takes me back to an era feeling nothing less than an Anarkali:) .

Qawwali singers follow a dress code of a Kurta  and a short jacket and they wear this hat with much grace. It is an experience to witness the whole sufi performance as it is soul stirring. Sufism has a mystical belief that through their music the singers and listeners connect to the spiritual realm and experience the sweetness of divine love and power of God. 

Qawwali Hat - Rupika Chopra

You do feel special wearing this one as this takes you back to the Mughal era when Anarkali (who belonged to a Sheikh family from Lahore ) fell in love with the Crown Prince Jahangir. This hat does make me relate to the passion in their love story and reflects the poetic romance between the two. Look at me going all Sufiyana wearing it 🙂

One can wear this Hat with wide pants and kurtas and adorn cool accessories like bracelets and chunky neck pieces. It would look great worn to a party!!

Qawwali Hat - Rupika Chopra

 

The Dainty Visor: 

The Visor Hat - Rupika Chopra

The Dainty Visor :

This Visor Hat is up on style quotient and femininity. It is a great combination of being sporty and elegant. I love the detailing on this Visor Hat and is perfect to wear it at the golf rounds. It’s nicely lined on the inside providing one abundant protection, keeping style intact.

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This Visor Hat is a dainty one and is feather light. I love hats that are a no fuss hats. More so Visor makes me focus easily while playing Golf or Tennis . White being a favourite colour this hat reflects a childlike innocence. It is a perfect one to step out anywhere in the day. It simply never fails to look cute and adorable on anyone.  It makes me feel I can be lost in my own world. 🙂

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The Baseball Cap :

Baseball Cap - Rupika Chopra

The Baseball Cap:

Baseball Cap is the most commonly worn cap in the world both by men and women. A baseball cap was part of the uniform of America’s favourite game – Baseball.

The main purpose of the cap was to keep the sun out of the players eyes and as a part of the uniform. It is also called “America’s beloved ” .

The first baseball cap was made of straw.  It was first worn in the year 1849. Then it was made of wool. It is rounded and soft on the crown with a curved peak. It’s function is to protect the wearer from the sun, keep the head cool and also to set you apart from the rest. By 1900’s baseball caps became a rage for every young person.

Baseball caps are made of wool, polyester, cotton, denim etc. With more environment friendly fabrics available now caps are being made from bamboo cotton as well.

Like any other hat, a baseball cap is also worn as a fashion accessory than just a sun shielding head gear.

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If you have noticed the Baseball cap has eyelets for ventilation. I love baseball caps like all of you and the fact it can be adjusted according to one’s crown is fabulous. Any cap like I mentioned, has to be well cut and designed well on the crown. Whether it is a hard crown or a soft one, if the cap doesn’t fit you well it will loose its purpose. The art of Hat making is equal to designing a good outfit as it can make or break your personality.

In the 1980’s baseball caps were mostly made in a standard size but later they were made more practical with the adjustable strap. 

I love the D&G print baseball cap I am wearing. It’s a perfect cap for this Spring season. Baseball caps make you look cool, young, trendy and fun. It is a part of the casual wear.

You cannot miss looking at the most stunning baseball caps displayed at some designer stores like – PhiliP Plien, D&G, Gucci, Prada, Hugo Boss, Dsquared2, Burberry, Balmain, Givenchy, Balenciaga, Valentino, Alexander Mc Queen, Ralph Lauren, Adidas, Off-white , Versace, Monclear, Isabel Marant , Loewe, Stella McCartney, Puma, Nike, Moschino, and the list is endless. 

It is clear that baseball caps are never running out of production or style for the demand it has throughout the world. They are surely here to stay !!!

Baseball Cap - Rupika Chopra

 

The Bohemian Feather Hat: 

Feather Hat - Rupika Chopra

The Bohemian Feather Hat :

Feathers are a symbol of “Flight and Freedom”.

Feather Hats are worn by the “bold – bohemian” one’s who have the “warrior spirit” to carry it off. Bohemia is a region in Czech Republic from where the name Bohemian was derived. Being Bohemian is all about being an unconventional person particularly involved in art, music, creativity etc. Bohemian mainstream fashion is drawn from the late 60’s. 

This is a perfect festival hat for a free spirited girl, who doesn’t care for trends but makes her own fashion statement and feels like a “Bohemian Princess”.

The style I am wearing is the warbonnet which is best known as the Indian headdress today. They are worn by the tribes from Sioux, Blackfeet, Crow etc. 

It is a unique bohemian hat created skillfully, putting it all together with leather and feathers. This is an art deco piece which reflects the hippie fashion. I love the fact it is unconventional and represents the nomadic gypsies. One feels like a warrior adorning this one.

Feather Hat - Rupika Chopra

I am looking like the “DAKOTA SIOUX WARRIOR”  wearing this warbonnet. This hat was worn by the chiefs of the tribe of the American Plains Indian Nations and each time they won with an act of bravery, a feather was added to their coronet. These were worn at important occasions and were typically made of Eagle feathers. 

 It casts an immediate spell on the wearer and you feel the liberation from the world of norms. A hat like this is to be worn to a festival and if you can carry this hat off with flair – you are cool in my opinion!!

One needs to have a special knack to carry this charismatic piece. The detailing is commendable and it is also not very heavy to wear. Yes, you cannot go all shaky when you wear this millinery.  Feathers play an important role in the belief system of the Native American Indians. Their belief embodies that all animals and birds have a soul and spirit. And wearing a head gear like this connects you with the divine through the feathers that act like an antenna to the high power. 

This is a piece of craft. Designing a perfect crown for this one is close to designing a jewel. I simply love the feathers hanging and draping from each side.

It was also shared with me that this one is a cruelty free feather hat so that was a happy information to receive. We don’t want to create any damage to the beautiful birds for creating such pieces for sure. 

This feather hat reflects your personality, for just like this special hat – You are one of a kind!!!

Feather Hat - Rupika Chopra

Outfit : Zara , Shoes : H&M,  Belt : Hermes ,

Panama Hats : Instagram handle – Wingsbyhajselbjerg,

Others hats : Dalaya Boutique – ( Instagram handle – Dalaya_Boutique) 

Feather Hat : MANIKI PHUKET – Insta handle – Maniki_boutique 

 

 

 

All Chic & Classic!!

Chic and Classic - Rupika Chopra

All Love for Chic & Classic!

Hello Style Lovers!!

Want to know about one of my weaknesses?? Well! It’s the obsession I have for chic dressing. At most occasions I choose to dress sophisticated. It without a doubt stimulates my fashion sensibilities. There’s something classy, neat, easy and impactful about dressing chic.  The word “Chic” is derived from a French word “Chique” – which means skilfully smart, stylish and fashionable. 

The best thing about chic dressing is one does not need to keep buying the latest trendy clothes and you don’t look like you are a fashion victim ever. No matter how old your outfit is, it will only represent who you are in the truest sense. The Classic style is flattering on just anyone and that’s the magic of timeless dressing.

Chic and Classic - Rupika Chopra

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Chic dressing is dignified and refined. One can choose to pick an outfit according to one’s body type and look suave.  Whether you look flattering in a dress, suit or a combination sets, that’s for you to decide.

I am an ardent fan of Chanel like many of you. I love the brand not only for the luxury it exuberates, but also for the magic of simplicity Gabriella Chanel gifted the world. Gabriella Chanel proved that, no matter where you may come from, the magic of being a visionary leads to the beginning of a new era.

The ever classic beauties Audrey Hepburn, Jacqueline Kennedy, Katherine Hepburn were head turners in their elegant ensemble. In the present scenario, I am a huge fan of Queen Rania’s style. Elegance leaves an impact like nothing else does. Its reflects one’s personality eloquently. It is charming, poetic, beautiful, dainty yet STRONG!!

Chic and Classic - Rupika Chopra

Chic and Classic - Rupika Chopra

Chic dressing comprises of well cut shirts, dresses, skirts, pencil skirts, well cut suits, off shoulder dresses and much more.  I have some of my favourite outfits and dresses that can be repeated endlessly on several occasions. An off shoulder dress in black and white is just discerning and tasteful…..It sits as one of my delish pieces in my wardrobe. 🙂

But nothing replaces a combination of black and white on an outfit. It is a bold yet understated combination.  Black being a powerful colour and white being a colour of purity and peace, the combination brings out a striking vibe. Not much is needed when you wear this combination. You could wear a well cut white shirt with black pants, skirt or a dress or a suit, it will always be an enticing combination. 

Chic and Classic - Rupika Chopra

This outfit is a fabulous combination of both of my favourite colours. The skirt has the perfect Dior check on it. I love the Bow – Tie shirt which has white detailing on the wrist, neck and shoulder with the bow.  Stockings add more grace to the formal look.

My well cut Italian shoes are perfectly designed to wear at work and formal events. You can see I have also teamed the outfit with long boots as well that can be worn as the temperature drops. One should always grab a pair of well made shoes as they are high on comfort and style. You can also choose to wear pointed stilettos for a more formal evening.

Chic and Classic - Rupika Chopra

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This look is perfect for work, formal lunch or dinner. My jacket is a tweed one which I completely love. Tweed makes one look fabulous as it has a vintage vibe to it. Overall the combination is “Chique “. One can always add a pair of pearl stud earnings with such an outfit. I avoid wearing any accessory in the neck with a           bow – tie styled shirt. If I was wearing a top or a plain shirt I would have loved to add a pair of pearl strings with stilettos. You can keep your make up minimalistic but a wing eyeliner will make you dazzle with this look, for when we dress chic and classy, WE LET EYES DO THE TALKING !!:)

Skirt: Dior, Shirt : Jaspal , Jacket : Ted Baker, Shoes : are from a local store in Italy ,                 Bag – Scervino Street  

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