trendsetter – Her Tinted Closet

Co-ord Sets are here to Rule!!!

May 3, 2022December 13, 2022 Rupika Chopra8 Comments

This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is IMG_5263-657x1024.jpg — **Rupika Chopra in a Colourful Co-ord Set**:

Hello Fashion Lovers!!!

Finally the world is opening up with much hope for things to be in flow and progress for all. During the pandemic everything took a back seat and surely, rewiring of one’s mind and needs made it clear to all that we can be trendy and sustainable at the same time. Decluttering the closets during the pandemic was such a soul cleanse!!

Women always have had more clothes in their closet than what they will ever use and my thumb rule now is to give away something that I have not worn for more than a year. It has been an effective detachment practice. I have always been a believer of Quality over Quantity and that rule will never change. As we are progressing towards more sustainable possibilities, it has become imperative to be thoughtful to buy recyclable fabrics.

Finally, we have a reason to get dressed up. After months of staying in comfy athleisure we can flaunt the very trendy Co-ord sets ( Co-ordinates ) blooming this Summer Season. Co-ord sets are the most sought after option whether you are headed to a super market, to a formal lunch, workplace, a fun dinner or to a formal meeting. The possibilities to dress uniquely are galore.

This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is IMG_5342-750x1024.jpg — **Rupika Chopra in Colourful Recyclable Co-ord Set:**

Co-ord sets or the Two Piece outfits have been popular for decades and they first popped as a trend in the 70’s. Now the Co-ord sets have become a fad in their own right spanning from athleisure to Knitwear. In the 70s’, the top models set the ramp on fire with the matching ensemble catching everyone’s eye along with celebrities of the time. Lauren Hutton, Margaux Hemingway, Beverly Johnson, Jerry Hall were some of the famous models ruling the ramp at that time.

This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is IMG_0435-750x1024.jpg — **Rupika Chopra in an Organically grown Linen Co-ord Set:**

If you flip through the trend over the years, Co- ord sets have been admired in every decade. The 80’s and 90’s saw different trends but the style never lost it’s zing. If you fast forward to the 2000’s the trend was made popular by a few brands like Juicy Couture again. Their colourful suede sets became an absolute must have to add that glam quotient. You could see people travelling, holidaying & lounging in them all over the world. They veneered a luxe relaxed vibe with the brand. During the Pandemic from March to June it was still warm to wear the velvet sets but they are perfect for a slightly pleasant weather that’s why it makes a perfect travel companion. The trend has never relapsed, it has recoursed to fabulous alternatives in different fabrics, cuts and styles by the leading brands today.

This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is IMG_0416-682x1024.jpg — **Rupika Chopra in an Organically Grown Linen Co-ord Set:**

This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is IMG_0454-677x1024.jpg — **Rupika Chopra in a Recycled Co-ord Set: Shorts and a Crop Top**

During the Pandemic the lounge/relaxed wear, athleisure, comfortable sets fully reintegrated into a fashion statement. Even the formal sets came back into play in full swing across seasons. The best thing about Co- ord sets is that they not only look uber stylish but also is a no fuss outfit. Whether one adorns a skirt- set, pant or co-ordinated shorts they look chic.

Matching sets with pants and bra-lets have become extremely desirable. Co- ord sets have some kind of a power play. Flaunting the mid- riff in a co-ord set is the new cool and we do it fabulously. Not only in the western wear, but also the Indian styles Co- ord sets are loved by all. Co-ord sets mostly reminded me of the creations by Gabriella Chanel. Her tweed sets are timeless and elegant. But now we have access to the eclectic and vibrant styles this season that would perk your wardrobe add versatility.

This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is IMG_0500-622x1024.jpg — **Rupika Chopra in a Recycled Co-ord Set – Shorts & a Crop Top**

Some of my favourite brands for grabbing the matching sets are The Kooples, Zara, Maje, Versace, Gucci, Adidas, Alice & Olivia, Zimmerman, Ted-Baker, Asos, etc. They make anyone look trendy effortlessly. Mostly, I love the crop tops with pants, skirts and shorts. I also knot the shirt up for a dash of Retro and make the eyes dramatic for that’s all you need as an accessory with an outfit that’s your ambassador. I like to wear neutral colour heels/shoes/sneakers with my co-ord sets to keep the look minimalistic. Too many colourful elements together can be jarring so keeping it understated with accessories is classy.

This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is IMG_8794-780x1024.jpg — **Rupika Chopra in a Summery Shirt & a Skirt set:**

This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is IMG_8777-676x1024.jpg — **Rupika Chopra in a Summery Shirt & a Skirt Set:**

Currently, Co-ord sets are available in so many happy, bold colours and patterns across many brands. I love matching my Bell Bottoms with a similar shirt or a crop – top for it does all the talking. This Summer Season, we will witness many wearing them and the craze will last a while. The best thing about them is that they can be worn independently so they are never a bad investment!!

To simply put it in words, embrace the mantra, When in doubt CO-ORD IT OUT!!!

“Crop” it…. this Summer!!!

April 27, 2021May 3, 2022 Rupika Chopra34 Comments

Rupika Chopra - Crop Tops a must in a wardrobe

Rupika Chopra in a Crop Top

Crop Tops are back to sizzle again this summer with vibrance and style. Crop Tops are also known as Half Shirt, Midriff Top or a Cut Off Shirt. Crop Tops are my favourite this season. They are simple, chic and make any outfit cool. It reveals the midriff and makes one look exotic. Cleavage is passe’ and MIDRIFF IS IN!!! With all the throwbacks to the 90’s trending right now, crops are soaring temperatures. This summer grab your crop tops and flaunt them galore because baring the midriff is in. It is a trend that is here to stay and that makes it classic!!

Crop Tops go way back in the history of Fashion and it gained prominence in the 1930’s and 1940’s. It was largely confined to swimwear at that time. But the style drew much admiration and saw a revival due to the popularity even in the 1990’s. The Cropped shirt was originally created by men for men. Men used to cut their T – shirts short and flaunt their midriffs at the gym. This trend was picked up by the Eastern part of the world by the belly dancers…who captured much attention flaunting their waists.

**Rupika Chopra in an Off shoulder Crop Top by GADO GADO**

It was only in the 1940’s that the crop tops were accepted as a fashion trend in the West, due to the prevailing conservatism that depicted the exposed midriff as immodest. The young adults loved them and wore it in fancy styles with shorts, skirts and pants. The fact that Cut Off Tops accentuate the slimmest part of a woman’s waist and made them feel sexy, as it defined their figure perfectly, it became a sensation. They became popular among the people and many cord – sets were being worn as well. Cut Off Tops became a part of the Hippie Movement of the 60’s wit floral prints and high waisted flared denims. I still love the look and wear it quite often as it brings out the Bohemian in me. Thanks to the sexual revolution models and actresses like Jane Birkin, Jean Shrimpton, Anne De Zogheb, etc. who started knotting their blouses on their ribs in a relaxed boho style, completely setting the fashion scene on fire!!!

Rupika Chopra in a Crop Top by GADO GADO and Mom Fit Jeans

By the 70’s crop tops made a comeback with shorter hemlines. Cher made them quite popular in the music industry adorning them with glittery flared denims. Crop Tops became the sex symbol worn by the pop icons. During that time the crops became shorter and got bolder that were known as Bra Tops or Bralettes. The rage for crops began in the 1990’s and dropped around the 2000’s. But for now from the last year the trend has come back with much zing and colour. This look is especially suited for a vacation but one can easily wear these to a lunch, dinner or a get together without a second thought!

**Rupika Chopra in a Knotted Shirt and shorts by ZARA**

Remember the cropped top worn with High Waisted Drainpipes that looked glorious in the 80’s. Infact the cropped top worn with the leotards became a signature look for Madonna for a while. Even in the 90’s the rage for crop tops did not subside at all. Britney Spears, Spice Girls, Christina Aguilera flaunted their toned abs in the flashy Midriff tops. The best comeback of a trend is witnessed when the world follows it and for the last couple of seasons crop tops have been embraced all around the world again. Thanks to the social media for the fashion awareness and synchronising the world virtually. It has aligned our taste and of course, life is too short to miss out the best trends.

**Rupika Chopra with a Crop Top by GADO GADO**

I have paired my favourite crop top with my high waisted denim shorts. The style looks quite chic and one can change one’s vibe pairing it with pants, denims, skirts or shorts and footwear. Crop tops are all about no fuss dressing and one can accessorise according to the occasion and you are ready to roll. Not to miss out on, the Crop Top was recently popularised recently at the Red Carpet when the French Actress Marion Cotillard opted for a crop at the Cannes Film Festival showcasing Chanel Haute Couture and Ludovic De Saint Sernin Balmain Kimono. You see it’s all about baring the Solar Plexus and owning your power with much confidence and sex appeal. And when you are toning those ab muscles – you gotta flaunt them right …. and the Mid Riff Top accomplishes that fabulously!!

**Rupika Chopra in a Crop Top and a Bandana and Mom Fit Jeans**

Crop Tops with different cuts and styles change the look of an outfit. I am wearing divergent styles from the T – shirt style to an off shoulder to a bralette and they simply look astounding. Dolce and Gabbana recently showcased their high waisted skirts with bralettes in dazzling jungle prints, while BALMAIN electrified the fashion lovers with their street style from the 1990’s.

Due to the pandemic we have had limited access to stores but none the less Zara, H&M, etc. spoil us with amazing trends and colours. Zara recently launched a wonderful summer collection with vibrant hues. My black top is from Zara and the Off Shoulder top is from my favourite Dutch brand named GADO GADO. Her beautifully detailed clothes have a vintage touch and that simply makes me fall in love with her creations. I will be covering more of her collection this summer and you will be spellbound!!

**Rupika Chopra in Off Shoulder Crop Top with high waisted Shorts**

One can pair the crop tops with skirts, loose, straight or flared pants or denims with heels or sneakers and one will never fail to be pre- eminent. Crop tops are certainly intriguing and if you want to add some oomph this summer….. grab your tops in different styles – t – shirt, knotted, relaxed, bustiers and reignite your flair.

Till I write again soon….. I am sending you all much love and light from India and prayers for good health and safety🌟❤️and remember that WINTER ALWAYS TURNS TO SPRING!!!

CHAO!!!

The Denim Fetish!!!

August 7, 2020August 10, 2020 Rupika Chopra21 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

Quarantining in Relaxed Wear!!!

May 20, 2020May 22, 2020 Rupika Chopra19 Comments

Quarantining in relaxed wear :

So whats the new normal? Well it is quarantining in the cool casuals with your favourite beverage in one hand and a zoom call staring right in your face. On the onset of the Quarantine in the month of March, no one had imagined that people around the world will be confined to their homes, moving on from one lock down to the other. Working from home is the need of the hour and that has begot a new dress code – the cool relaxed wear. Parked on your favourite couch, comfort is what one resonates with. So whilst we all are in our abodes, with no meetings to run for, dressing in formals is the last thing on one’s mind.

One certainly wants to look good whether one is home or outside, I have divided my comfort wear into categories of – very relaxed wear to cool casual wear. Pyjamas, tees and loose tracks are a part of very relaxed wear. Leggings, tracks, hoodies, denims and t shirts are a part my casual wear.

One certainly wants to look good whether one is home or outside, I have divided my comfort wear into categories below :

Relaxed wear – Leggings, Tracks, Hoodies, Tees, Racer back etc.

2. Very Relaxed Wear – Pyjamas, Tees, Shorts, Tank tops etc.

3. Cool casual wear – Tees, Denims, Linen pants, dresses and jumpsuits

Of course one cannot be in a right out of the bed look and not be presentable on calls. One has to choose to look presentable always, irrespective of the fact you are online or not. I definitely like to be more perked up for the weekdays as it keeps me focused, so I pair up a tee with a cool pair of denims on my important days from Monday to Thursday. As the weekend comes by, I throw in some athleisure like tracks, leggings, tees etc.

Keeping in mind there is no access to the dry cleaners at the moment, relaxed wear is perfect during this quarantine period as they can be easily washed at home sans any fuss. With limited access to online shopping, lounge and relaxed wear sales have seen a rise in the graph. They can still be bought with delays during the lockdown. People around the world are ordering their favourite room wear as home is where one wants to keep the vibe easy. I feel when the body is relaxed the mind will follow too and that surely enhances one’s productivity.

Comfort wear for the weekdays should be a bridge between the cool casuals and relaxed wear. I certainly want to feel good with what I am adorning. The quality of fabric is a priority for me and I never compromise on that. Some of my favourite brands for relaxed wear are Adidas, Nike, Alo, Lululemon, Hollister, Sandro, Top shop, Marks & Spencer etc.

With the temperatures rising it surely is getting hot for the hoodies so I am hanging in my tees and linen shirts with shorts. My foot wear comprises of flats and sneakers. I love the track set I am wearing by Adidas, it is from one of their limited collection and I love the flared pants that give a very retro vibe. The flowery print on the pants and the jacket is such a star on this one. It’s my Best Buy from Adidas.

The demand for relaxed wear has certainly seen a steep curve for now and will be in the coming months as well. Now when we are reaching the peak of our quarantine phase – Lets together stay positive through this with the art of relaxation and radiate good vibes for……. Winter always turns to Spring!!!

TAKE GOOD CARE & STAY SAFE

LOVE AND LIGHT

RUPIKA

Trackset : Adidas , Top : H&M , Shoes : Nike , Glasses : MIUMIU

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

Fearlessly Camouflaged!!!

January 24, 2020January 27, 2020 Rupika Chopra20 Comments

Inger Solberg

It was a wonderful Wednesday afternoon, when the three of us got together for a shoot in Goa for the gorgeous and valorous camouflage collection designed by Inger Solberg and Liv Barfoed. I simply fell in love with the name of their brand ,“LIV-ING” as it signifies “Soul”. Liv and Inger have been friends for the last 32 years and their passion for creating a line together gave life to LIV – ING. Both Inger and Liv are gorgeous women who have gained expertise in their respective professions.

Rupika Chopra & LIV Barfoed

Inger is a celebrated designer from Denmark and she fell in love with designing clothes since she was 17 years old. She kept on practicing new creations and by then her heart knew that this was her calling. She went to a formal school of Design to train herself as a Designer. As destiny played it’s part, she came to India in 1989 and she felt a deep connection with the magical country. She moved to India permanently in the year 2000 – she smiles and adorably says, ” Mera dil pakka Hindustani hai.”

Inger started her factory in New Delhi and she initiated designing for reputed private labels like H&M, BeYoung etc. LIV and Inger, proudly call their collection ” Madam Soldier” . Inger says, “she has always faced challenges like a fighter and friends compare her fighting spirit to that of Goddess Durga”. So this collection is a story of a woman who possess a heart of a warrior.

I love the way Inger describes their collection as “Rough and Romantic” and shares that, “As a woman, one has to be rough to survive in this world and also be feminine to be in sync with herself and the real world.” I love that thought!!

Liv Barfoed has been a former model and she was the first stylist in Denmark. She has been in the fashion Industry from the 80’s. She also educated herself as a designer and worked for many Danish companies one of them being “Royal Copenhagen”, where she designed a huge accessories collection. She has done many editorials and fashion shows for a lot of big Danish brands and Givenchy & Balmain in Paris. She has been involved in promoting reputed brands in Denmark. Liv has also worked as a PR and a Marketing professional and she continues to bring her expertise to their brand LIV-ING.

The collection is made of high quality cotton produced in India. The printing is also done in the country itself. I love the romance added by the lace on this indomitable print, doing absolute justice to Inger’s depiction of “Rough and Romantic”. It simply makes it exotic! The best part about camouflage print is that, when adorned, it doesn’t need to be blazoned, as it just declares the bold attitude of a personality.

The collection represents a robust and a fearless vibe. I love the fact that women of any age can look spectacular in this collection. The dresses are breathable and light and can be beautifully accessorised with beads and funky earrings. The style can make anyone stand out and that is the euphoria created by LIV-ING for their summer collection.

Well, I simply loved shooting for LIV-ING and ” THE MADAM SOLDIER ” collection has definitely stirred my emotions for now but wait till you see what LIV – ING has in store for you in their Fall collection. I cannot wait to grab my hands on it and I promise you, CAMOUFLAGE IS HERE TO STAY!!!

Photographer : Francois Matthys