flareddenims – Her Tinted Closet

The Denim Fetish!!!

August 7, 2020August 10, 2020 Rupika Chopra19 Comments

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”.

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.

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”.

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.

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 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.

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.

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

Gotta Shirt Up!!!

March 25, 2020March 27, 2020 Rupika Chopra15 Comments

Shirts – “A whole new ball game” :

There were days when a perfect LBD was a must have in a woman’s closet just like a well cut suit in a man’s wardrobe. But an equally important place has been taken by a spectacular looking shirt. You cannot call yourself “debonair” in the truest sense if you don’t have some classic pieces. Shirts are my go to choice for most occasions. It simply makes up to be an understated, classy, formal and a graceful attire. From cotton, linen, satin, georgette, etc. both well fitted and loose shirts have gloriously paved a way for it to be statement piece in itself. Shirts have evolved much from it’s evolution in the 17th century.

A well fitted shirt always leaves an impact. Shirts are dynamic and have so much to play with – the flirty arms, the ruffled collars, the A Symmetric cuts add much character and story to this torso loving garment.

Sometime back, I had written about the funky ways of wearing a shirt. There are so many ways of adorning a shirt and look sexy and edgy at the same time. I can never forget an image of Cindy Crawford look drop dead gorgeous in a knotted shirt.That look became a rage for all fashion lovers. There is a famous image of the models of the 90’s posing in a white shirt on the beach, adding oomph to the sophisticated garment. After that shirts took a keen space in a woman’s closet.

I love the simplicity a shirt has and the fact it can be worn with both denims, shorts, skirts and trousers, make it an absolute favourite.

Shirts give a unique definition to one’s style and yes their classic appeal is enough to make heads turn. Shirts are being made in the most creative styles and cuts, with embroidery and gorgeous prints. One has many wonderful options to choose from and I love how each shirt can change one’s look completely.

Shirts were first designed as a European dress in the 17th Century, as a garment worn to protect the waistcoats from getting spoiled from sweat. By the 18th Century, Shirts had become an essential male garment. By the middle of the 19th Century, shirts were most sought after worn by men mostly working in the white collar jobs. Men involved in manual labour found it impractical to wear it, as it would get spoiled easily. During this period of time, the shirts were not mass produced in factories. A well suited man bought his shirt from a tailor, while the common man wore a shirt made by his wife. Those were the days, when women learnt how to sew and learnt new skills.

Collars have also changed from time to time. Earlier the “Dog Collars” were quite popular it was later that the smaller collars came into fashion and were a more sophisticated option for work. Shirts were quite simple in the earlier days, but later more colourful options were being designed with chest pockets and shorter sleeves.

Shirts are a must have in a man’s and a woman’s closet. There are endless designs and styles existing today with different cuts, collars and cuffs. Different fabrics give a different flair to a shirt. Numerous brands today have fabulous fits and styles. One of my favourite brand for shirts is Haws & Curtis. They specialise in making shirts of all kinds. I love the collared shirts but I also love the bow shirts as they are artistic. The ruffled collar shirts look rather aristocratic. The Big collars are back in vogue again on the lovely poplin shirts with crochet work on the collars and cuffs. The oversized shirts are the coolest ones and can be worn with pants, shorts and denims.

Today shirts are worn with so much style. One can add a belt on a long shirt to make it a perfect one for a party. The shirts that I am wearing are in satin and cotton. The satin one’s look a bit more dressy and can be worn to a formal occasion or a dinner.

My tiger printed satin shirt is an expressive one in itself. I love the chest pockets on it. It is a perfect blend of masculinity and femininity. I have accessorised them with gold accessories and funky gold belt which makes it perfect for a formal occasion.

I love the shirts from Zara, Sandro, Maje, H&M, Versace, Topshop, Polo Ralph Lauren, Gucci, Rangeela etc. The list is endless because one can find an amazing collection by numerous designers and at the boutique stores.

The white shirt that I am wearing is a cotton one with an A Symmetric style with a layer style on the front. I love this shirt for this is an effortless choice for most occasions. This can be worn with pants and denims charismatically. The combination of white on white always looks dynamic and white being my favourite colour I would rank that first. However, this A symmetric shirt will look amazing with denims and shorts aswell.

The polka dotted shirt with my flared denim looks quite retro. Polka dots will never go out of style and will always be an iconic print. Remember the Polka dotted bikini worn by Miss America. She made polka dots swell in the fashion scenario. Dior’s famous polka dress made in the year 1954 grabbed the attention of many gorgeous damsels like Elizabeth Taylor, Lucille Ball, Marilyn Monroe. Polka dots are graceful and a happy print. One can accessorise one self with chunky earnings along with a shirt like this one. Mine is a semi – casual look yet it looks elegant when worn with peep toes, it certainly adds a dash femininity and I love that.

Shirts : Zara , Denims : J Brand, White Pants : Zara , Belt : Chanel , Earrings : Chanel,

Heels: YSL

The unconventional “BELL BOTTOMS”!!

May 1, 2019September 4, 2019 Rupika Chopra23 Comments

Ring a Bell – with “THE BELL BOTTOMS” :

Bell Bottoms or the flared pants are the coolest depiction of a personality with distinctive views and someone who is a lethal combination of being firm, strong and liberated at the same time.

Bell bottoms are worn by “history makers”. There is something inspiring about the the flared styled bottoms that only a personality loaded with passion can do justice to this creation. I know skinny jeans and pants look amazing as well but the spell of “bell bottoms” is UNMATCHED.

Bell bottoms have been my best mate from High School. Just like one has an “X Factor ” and the other “does not” – the same way one either likes the “bell bottoms” or does not. “Bells” are worn by the Go – getters and dream weavers.

My dress code on a casual day is an absolute well fitted flared denims / pants with a statement belt, combined with a T- Shirt / Shirt. I am simply a cowgirl in my heart and soul. I not only love horses, but I love the euphoria of breaking the norm that bell bottoms can create. The “cowgirl” in me instantly awakens as I brace myself in the magical flared pants. And yes, when I add a “hat” and “boots” to the look, I ain’t stopping for anyone!!

The “flared legs” were originally made in the 17th century for men working on the boat, as they could be easily rolled up while washing the decks. It became the uniform of the U.S Navy in the 1950’s. And if the sailors fell overboard the pants could be easily pulled off over boots or shoes. They could also be filled with air and used as a floatation device. So bell bottoms emerged from the functionality and the ease it created. In the 1960’s and 70’s “Bell Bottoms” became extremely popular as they were simply unconventional and cool. The youth began to love the flared pants for the same reason, rebuking the old fashion and expressing their love for freedom.

During the 1960’s, those among the youth who did not conform to the conservative styles of dressing, fell in love with the then inexpensive “Bell Bottoms”. Young people at that time shopped for the flared bottoms at the Military surplus stores. Wearing a part of the old military uniform added much appeal to their personality reflecting change and strength. The “Bell Bottoms” became a symbol of the rebellious one’s in the 60’s.

The youth painted the pants with colourful peace symbols and embroidered flowers, to promote the Anti War message to the world, showing how much they were against the Vietnam War that took place from (1954 – 75).

Flared pants became so much of a rage, but those who could not find them, often made their own flared pants by cutting the sides and attaching an extra triangle cloth to be fashionable.

By the 1970’s, the designers had started manufacturing the bell bottoms in different fabrics like denims, satin, cotton, polyester. Both men and women started wearing them with zest and liberation. My favourite singer Cher, James Brown wore “bells” with absolute style. Some of the flared pants were so wide at the bottom that they were also called the “Elephant Bells “.

They became popular among the pop stars and became an outlandish symbol of glamour. From printed to shimmery all sorts of bell pants were seen worn in the 70’s. The trend successfully continued in the 80’s as well. But also straight pants and denims had taken over the fashion scenario again. But none the less the style picked up momentum in the 90’s and since then it has been repeatedly on the runways across the world.

The bell styles today are inspired by the funky designs of the past and now bell pants can also be seen on the lace fabric. Infact, I recently picked up a lace suit with lace bell pants being an attractive element of the outfit. It is seldom that I will miss out on a well fitted bell bottoms ever, as one does not find them easily and even when the new styles are produced by brands, they are the first one’s to be grabbed from the shelf.

In the 70’s the “bells” were more high waited one’s. But now the ” bells ” are modified to the mid waist and low waist huggers. I love the fact we go back to where we started when it comes to fashion and the evolution today matches the basics of yesterday.

Some of my favourite designers for the bell bottoms are Celine, Elisabetta Franchi, True Religion, Balmain, Zara, TOPSHOP, J Brand, For All Mankind, Frame, D&G, YSL, DONDUP, Stella McCartney, Sonia Rykiel, Liu JO etc. These brands have the most fabulous fits that sits like a glove on your bottom.

Adorning “bell bottoms” gives you a BOHO vibe. When you wear your bell bottoms with a shirt just like mine, it takes you to an era. My “red polka” shirt is completely retro and takes one back to the 80’s style. I love to wear linen flare pants in the summer season. They are simply chic and breathable.

My satin bell pants are sultry and fun as well but these can be worn to formal occasions. Whatever the fabric may be ” bells ” are a statement in it self. So grab the best hugging bell bottoms this season and team it up with a funky top or a shirt. Spice up your look with accessories and perfect stilettos and go on and flaunt your FLARES with all your Flair!!

Denims : J Brand , Shirt : Haws & Curtis , Satin Shirt : ZARA , Pants : ZARA