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10 Wardrobe Essentials for WOMAN

Fashion is an art of personal self expression. I believe that fashion is not about what you wear but how you wear it !!! It's more than putting together outfits and creating different looks . It's  a form of expression of ones identity. It's creating a new outer layer of skin. I love to experiment with clothes but I don't follow the trends blindly. As a teen I used to do it but  as a woman I believe in comfortable dress up, which is minimalistic and casual yet chic and ravishing. I generally go for colors & shades that suit my skin tone the best !!!

We all love shopping but these ever changing trends can be a little overwhelming. We cannot shop everything under the sun, keeping in mind the big hole our pockets  can create.Hence,I decided to invest in clothes which will never ever go out of fashion. Whatever you shop, if it makes you feel confident, strong, beautiful, sexy and powerful, then I have done my job. As a mother of  two wonderful  daughters ...I feel free to invest in classic, stylish, chic, expensive and statement clothes, whose  fashion and value will never go down till my kids grow up.  ...Always be a girl with a mind ,a woman with attitude and a Lady with class !

No wardrobe is complete without some must have staples which prove as a base for most outfits :


A PLAIN WHITE TEE / TOP / BLOUSE  :
         
You can layer perfect T- shirt under a Sweater or over a Tank top, tuck it into a skirt or let it hang free with a pair of denim cutoffs. One thing is for sure : Nothing  is more essential to your closet than plain white tee / top / blouse.

CLASSIC BLACK PANTS :

Every woman needs one pair of black pants that will always make her feel good - the cut is upto you (high waist or low rise, cropped or wide leg). Wear them with a silk blouse and pumps for work or a T -shirt on a casual Saturday.

DENIM PANTS :

If you own a pair of denim, make it a dark shade. Not only are they super slimming, they also work for a wider range of events than other shades.

CARDIGAN :

It can add little texture and interest to a plain tees or dresses . They are excellent for balancing out a prominent upper body. Secure them in your best naturals ( beige or camel or skin colours )and in fabrics suitable for the climate you live in . A cardigan works as tone it down piece and fabulous layering garment.



AN ELEGANT BLAZER :

Need an extra something to pull together an office look? BLAZER . A great out wear substitute when it's not quite cold enough for a heavy coat? BLAZER. The can't go wrong jacket to throw on over your cocktail dress? BLAZER .




A CLASSIC WHITE SHIRT :

With endless options for how to wear it, consider the classic white shirt your wardrobe pinch hitter. Since finding the right one can be a bit of a process.



A LITTLE BLACK DRESS :

No item is more of a blank slate for accessorizing and styling yet completely chic on its own . It's LBD ! In the business world, a perfectly tailored black dress is a fail - safe gold standard. It is important to invest in the best constructed dress you can afford , even if it means spending more than usual.



MAXI SKIRT / DRESS :

We can't deny to wearing it , it's a most comfy thing in the world. You can wear it from casual to formal , that you can rock all you round. Add a t-shirt  over it and make a easy breezy casual look, pair your dress with a blazer...it is works for a formal night out. You can style your maxi with statement neck pieces or any stylist accessories.



DENIM JACKET :

Jacket is an everyday essential and the last finishing touch an outfit can get. It's a perfect companion with your sun dresses and tunic tops. No matter the season , denim is the ultimate essential. 



BLACK TANK TOP / CAMI : 

Black top/cami, go great with your cardigans and sweaters. Super essential for any fashionista who loves the casual chic look.  Black is perfect for everything. That can be easily matched with your jeans and skirts. Fashion is a way to describe yourself. Something that doesn't need to be done and yet must need to be done. Fashion means everything and anything.




What does the word fashion mean to you ? Comment below !!!

February... A Month Full Of Dates!

February...I love this month! Short and really a sweet one! February this year however turned out to be a month with "Dates"! The so called "#Date" phenomenon struck me right at the beginning of the month. It all started with a 'whats app' message from my younger sister in law. The sweet message was about a "#Date" in February. This time it was rechristened as the "Rose Day"
The picture of lovely bouquet of roses in the message brightened up my mood. My mind wafted to my engineering days... Rose day was celebrated as a part of the Annual Gathering. Believe me in those days, getting a yellow rose; forget even "the" red one, was talked about in hush hush tone. What a taboo it was!!! Looking back, only thing that comes to my mind now is.... "LOL"!!!! 
To make up for the loss of so many years, the valuables ones, I went on a spree to send the lovely roses to all my near and dear ones. Before you start thinking that what a waste of money... let me clear the air...whats app pe pictures bhejane ko paisa nahi lagata....hahahaha!!!
Out of curiosity, I downloaded few more picture messages on whats app that very day. And lo...and behold...there were host of days...the #Dates!!!! I was thrilled at the thought of making so many remarkable moments...wondered where were they for so long??? So I armed myself with lots of twinkle in my eyes for a mission... a mission to celebrate all the # Dates!!!
First on the list was a "Chocolate Day". Ek sunahara mauka tha...our blog Mocktail Mommies had recently crossed 20000 page views mark! So...celebration to banata tha! Mauka aur chauka!!! Bought some chocolates aur fir kya, baant diye chocolates, jo bhi mila un sabko!!! While giving away the chocolates I carved a great #Date in my memory! Spreading joy, adds joy!
Next one was a "Hug Day". Oh my my...suddenly I felt as if I was in desert land. Couldn't remember the last time I hugged someone, even lovingly... forget passionately.But the desert does has its "Oasis"! My saviour, my daughter... she just had got up from her bed...at so called early hours of 9am, after lots of coaxing and reprimands. She came and gave me a tight hug and let her body loose for me to bear her weight. The desert around me turned into the lush green Moughal gardens! 
Then came a very hot and sizzling "Kiss Day". Hmmm... my partner in crime for past 18 years, my husband, was out of town. So I consoled myself, dear forget the kiss day, rather kick it off your mind. But there are many shades of "Kiss" as well! Before your dirty minds wander, reign in your horses!!! That very evening, my little friend Kanishka gave me a flying kiss! She had learnt this art recently, I learnt from her mother. The innocence filled flying kiss, really had a charming appeal!
Teddy Day was next in the line. Gone are the days when I can turn a teddy bear for my kids. Rather my children don't belong to the "kids" category any more. And if I resort to those early years tricks, they sure were to give me a dirty look..."mom has gone crazy" ones! So how was I going to celebrate the Teddy day??? This very question bothered me that day, more than the power tussle in Tamil Nadu. My chain of thoughts was broken, when I spotted a bear family occupying the corner in my children's room. This family was languishing in that corner for a long while.  I picked them up, kissed them good bye and handed them over to my cook....Of course not for cooking... but for her kids to play with! 
The best was yet to come, the very famous Valentine's day. The man of the house was to return from his tour that very evening. And I was wise enough to inform him, well in advance in the morning, that I was in a celebratory mood... and the reason was, Valentine's day! Enough an indication, for his so much occupied brain and schedule, to buy me some gift, I thought! But the airlines most of the times turn spoil sport...and they lived up to their reputation. I got a call from my husband that his flight was delayed. The dinner date candles that I had already set in my heart, blew off...thanks to this call! But I consoled myself that he was only going to be late. After training and mentoring him on such topics for past 18 years, my efforts sure would not go in vain...I was desperately telling myself!!! By the time my Valentine returned home, the entire house was half way through the moon. I opened the door on a very sleepy note and welcomed him with a great yawn! Half way through the moon, and I had forgotten everything about my wish for a Valentines gift. As I turned, I realized that my man was holding back my hand. I was annoyed. I gave him a look to clearly convey him the message that I was not going to get the food warm and serve him dinner...better do it on your own! But the grip tightened even further. Before the volcano in me could burst out, I was engulfed in a warm hug...was planted with an affectionate kiss on the forehead... and was gifted with a whisper in my ears..."You were and will be my sweet Valentine today and tomorrow..forever!!!"

To Beloved's Heart...A Culinary Way!

Valentines Day is right around the corner!!! Being a true romantic, I am always on cloud nine when my husband showers me with all the love and attention. I guess that holds true for both men and women. But you know what’s more romantic??? When the love of your life knows to whip up some exotic dishes to tantalize your taste buds. 

Being a foodie, my partner in crime broadened my horizon with amazing food experiences around the world. Sharing 3 such simple yet classic Italian recipes with you all. Give it a try to impress your partner this Valentines Day!! As someone said, “THE WAY TO A MAN’S (WOMAN’S) HEART IS THROUGH HIS (HER) STOMACH”. 

GRILLED PANEER PESTO

Cooking Time: 30 mins
Serves: 2...Two is "company" after all!!

INGREDIENTS:

Fresh Malai Paneer   : 250 gms
Extra Virgin Olive Oil : 2 tablespoons

Pesto Sauce:
Basil                       : 100 gms
Pine nuts                 : handful
Parmesan Cheese     : 50 gms
Garlic                      : 4 cloves
Extra Virgin Olive Oil : 2 tablespoon
Squeeze of half a lemon
Salt and pepper to taste.

METHOD:

Check out the video for making "Grilled Paneer Pesto" in a jiffy...



In case you  are not able to watch the video on this blog, kindly click the link below. Same video is available on Mocktail Mommies You Tube channel as well!
PASTA AGLIO  OLIO: (PASTA IN GARLIC AND OLIVE OIL)

Its a classic Italian Pasta with just 5 magic ingredients.

Cooking Time:  30 mins
Serves: 2

INGREDIENTS:

Spaghetti Pasta          : 250 gms
Parmesan Cheese     : 1 cup grated
Extra Virgin Olive oil : ½ cup
Fresh Parsley            : ½ cup finely chopped
Garlic                       : 10 – 15 cloves. Thinly sliced.
Salt, pepper and chilli flakes (optional) to taste.

METHOD:

See it to believe it...



Trouble opening the video...check out the same on You tube at...


CLASSIC MOIST CHOCOLATE CAKE WITH CHOCOLATE HAZELNUT CREAM

Last and most important...the desert course! So here is a no hassel cake recipe.

Cooking Time: 1 hour
Serves: 6 people

INGREDIENTS:

For the cake.
Dry Ingredients:
Refined Flour or Wheat Flour : 1 and ¾ cups
Cocoa Powder                      : ¾ cup
Baking Powder                     : 1 and ½ teaspoon
Baking Soda                         : 1 and ½ teaspoon
Salt:                                    : 1 teaspoon
Walnuts                                : ½ cup roasted and chopped

Wet ingredients:

Milk                    : 1 cup:
Vegetable oil       : ½ cup
Sugar                 : 1 and ½ cup
Over ripe banana : 1 or Egg: 2
Vanilla essence    : 1 and ½ teaspoon

Hazelnut Cream:

Chilled Fresh cream : 200 gms
Nutella:                : 250 gms

Here is a the step by step guide...a video...



Not able to view it, no problem, check it out on You Tube at...



Good food is good mood! So with the good food on the platter, let us know how did you enjoy your Valentine's Sizziling Date....

The World of Kaori

Ever stepped into an elevator to be engulfed by that tantalizing fragrance which leaves you floored? Or ever found yourself involuntarily following the mesmerizing trail left behind by that lovely lady in your building??? Well, that's the magic played out by perfumes. It not only attracts you but fills one's senses with various emotions which need no words to be expressed!!

Perfumes are not merely concoctions invented to fight body odour, but they are almost an extension of one's persona. There are various reasons for which people might collect perfumes. Some collect them for their fragrance, while others collect them for the beautiful bottles that they come in. I,personally, love to collect them for the sense of happiness, calm & serenity they bring to my mind with every breath that I take.

So you can gauge the level of my excitement when we received an invite to the launch of a new brand of perfumes....KAORI. These perfumes are aptly named so as it is Japanese for FRAGRANCE. This is a new brand of perfumes curated by Fragrance curator NISHA SHAH. Kaori is a bunch of BESPOKE FRAGRANCES, which claim to "speak for you" and tell the one that you value, all that you ever wanted to say with a PERSONAL TOUCH. In short, it makes your loved ones feel SPECIAL!!

We got the wonderful opportunity of being able to try on a few of these fragrances and i must say that they were impressive!! I am putting down a few details about the fragrances that we got to try...


But before I get into the details about the individual perfumes, I would like to put down a few words for the benefit of those who are new to the concept of NOTES in perfumes. Every perfume consists of three notes namely TOP notes, MIDDLE/HEART notes and finally BASE notes. 

TOP NOTES : These are the initial or first fragrances perceived upon applying the perfume.They are usually sharp and hence responsible for the "first impression" that a perfume gives.

MIDDLE NOTES : These are the heart of the perfume.These scents emerge just before the top notes fade away.They are usually mellow & help to mask unpleasantness of the stronger base notes.

BASE NOTES : These form the base of the perfume and are usually perceived once the perfume "dries down" typically after around 30 minutes. They are the most long lasting notes of any perfume.

With this, I would like to introduce you all to the individual fragrances that we tried out...

APHRODITE :            Named and designed after the Greek Goddess, it is an utterly feminine composition, perfect for a bit of seduction & love!!
Top Notes: Nutmeg, Berries
Middle Notes: Rose, Violet, Ylang-Ylang
Base Notes: Musk, Woody
Type : Seductively Feminine

EMPRESS :                 A sparkly composition that reflects the magic of green          misty wood on a beautiful spring morning!!
Top Notes: Bergamot, Lemon
Middle Notes: Hyacinth, Orchid, Subtle Violet
Base Notes: Mossy
Type : For Ladies who love natural notes

ENGLISH GARDEN: A beautiful blend reminiscent of walking in the floral                            woodlands or in a meadow!!
Top Notes: Rose, Black Currant
Middle Notes: Rose, Ylang-Ylang
Base Notes: Musk
Type : Delightfully Feminine

FLIRT :                 Flirts with your senses and leaves you craving for more!!

Top Notes: Lavender, Orange, Mandarin
Middle Notes: Musk, Geranium
Base Notes: Amber, Woody
Type : Feminine/ Unisex

ORION :          A deep composition inspired by the Greek legend & now, a Constellation of that name!!
Top Notes: Lemon, Bergamot
Middle Notes: Woody, Patchouli
Base Notes: Mossy, Vetiver
Type : Sophisticated Male(but loved by ladies too!!)

ROYALTY:            A composition made of complex notes, well suited for a person of royal character!!
Top Notes: Bergamot, Petitgrain, Lemon
Middle Notes: Woody
Base Notes: Amber, Musk
Type : Definitely Male 

TERRAIN :           Fragrance that wins the hearts of many men and women!!
Top Notes: Bergamot, Petitgrain, Lemon
Middle Notes: Woody
Base Notes: Green mossy
Type : Predominantly Male

WANDERER :   Perfect blend of leathery, strong notes spiked with spice notes..... perfect for a wanderer at heart!!
Top Notes: Amber, Nutmeg, Pink Pepper
Middle Notes: Cedarwood, Vetiver
Base Notes: Moss, Vetiver
Type : Supremely Male



Although most perfumes are broadly classified as masculine or feminine, there is rarely any clear cut demarcation. They can be worn on the basis of personal preference or mood of the individual. I would really suggest Kaori as a good option if you would want to gift that SPECIAL SOMEONE something that would speak more than words!! If you are interested in knowing more about KAORI, you can contact NISHA on the following media.



You could also follow Kaori Fragrances on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram @kaorifragrances











So, what are you waiting for??? Go ahead and indulge your senses with some really lovely fragrances or gift your loved ones some perfumes to make their day!!!
Wishing everyone a HAPPY VALENTINES DAY from all of us at Mocktail Mommies in advance
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