My Sunny Day Essentials

The temperatures are rising, fast. And while we might not be exactly at the Equator, or in the heat of the African desert sometimes it sure feels like it!

So I thought I'd give you a little rundown of the items I never leave home without, on those hot, sunny days.

Hat:

This is an absolute essential in our weather. Which is why I'm always surprised when I hear people ask me how I have the courage to wear hats in India.

"Don't you feel self-conscious when everyone looks at you?"

Well, let's see, weird looks from people who I'll never meet again vs spending a few days in bed with a severe case of heatstroke. I know which one I'm choosing - and which one you should! If there are some people who find it strange that you don't want to spend your day fainting and/or puking thanks to the heat, doesn't that make them strange? Shouldn't you be staring at their weirdness? I say ignore the looks, your health is way more important. Grab that hat and wear it with pride. 

Added bonus: if you choose the right shape for your face, with some sunnies you look like a movie star trying to go incognito. 

My favourite hats come from Accessorize. But every store and street vendor has some to sell in this season.

Water Bottle:

It may seem very back to school-ish, yet it is an essential for our summers. With Mumbai's humidity sucking us dry, can you afford to not to carry one? 

This bright one was about Rs 50-something from One Stop. If you're looking for something cheaper, try DMart. Water bottles start at Rs 20 there. For pricier, fancier versions, sports stores and Starbucks are a good option.

Just make sure that they're small enough to fit into your daily bag. As you can see, this one is about the size of my hand. It fits into small handbags perfectly. Meaning, there's no excuse for leaving it at home.

Hairties / Hairclips / Scrunchies / Whatever you call them:

If you've got long hair, this is a must-have in your bag or around your wrist. At some point in time, you're going to want to get your hair off your neck. I prefer these accordion-type ones to the regular kind. I feel that these don't leave you with the usual 'ponytail kink' in your hair that regular scrunchies do. They're also easier to find in your bag. The only downside is that these do stretch out faster than normal ones. (Although if you drop them into a bowl of hot water, they'll go back to size very quickly.)

I usually buy mine from H&M. They are the best value for money. Accessorize has a lovely selection, but I feel they're priced slightly too high for what they are. When they're on sale though, snap them up.

Sunscreen / Suncream:

Whatever you call it, it's a requirement in this weather. The cancer risk aside, who wants their skin burnt and all uncomfortable? Or, and even worse for Indians, fifty shades darker than normal? Slathering on suncream before you step out is a necessity. You should apply it thirty minutes prior to leaving the house, if you want it to be most effective. The SPF number indicates the length of time you can stay in the sun before you need to reapply it. If you burn or get tanned after twenty minutes, an SPF 30 means that you need to reapply it after 20 x 30 (or 600) minutes. Approximately six hours later. But remember, this is a general guideline, which doesn't take into account the varying intensity of the sun's rays. If you're feeling your skin heating up, reapply it regardless of the time.

If, like me, you have super sensitive skin, and suncreams cause a breakout, try this one by Lotus Herbals. It's in a gel form which seems to work really well. I can wear this all day and not be plagued by any pesky spots (aka pimples). 

Sunglasses:

I have done enough posts about sunnies. So I really don't think I need to say much more. If you like, you can read my sunglasses post here.

What I will reiterate is that sunglasses must protect your eyes from the glare and the UV rays. Make sure that you buy yours from a reputed store, so you know that you're getting UV protection, and not just a sticker that claims so. I tend to buy mine from brands like Forever 21, H&M and Zara because the countries that these brands originate from require them  - by law - to meet certain UV protection standards. 

If you're worried about the cost, these ones from Forever 21 were Rs 400.

I think it's quite a decent price considering that these will last about six months.

And with that, we come to the end of my essentials for beating the heat in our muggy, scorching summers. What are your essentials in this weather? I'd love to know!

Till next time,

MumbaiGirl

IG: @maryannecp 

Trends I'm NOT Following

Just for fun, I thought I'd give you a run down of the Spring/Summer 18 trends that I won't be adopting. 

Every season brings those trends that are just not right for you. Whether it's because of the climate of your country, a case of conservatism vs freedom to dress as you will or simply because they don't suit you at all, there's always something that you look at and say, "Nope. No how, no way!"

That doesn't mean that it's not right for someone else. Just as these trends might be perfect for you. For me, however, they're a no-no.


Co-Ord Sets:
This one's really a Zara-led trend. They usually do lovely sets for SS every year. This year though, they seem to have missed the mark.

Would you fancy going out in your striped pyjamas? Cos that's what this one looks like to me! Maybe it's the patterns that are currently popular, but there's no way I'd wear this outside the house. 

This blouse and skirt set is really pretty, but a closer look at its description lets you know that it's made of tweed. Can you imagine wearing tweed in our current weather? Yup, me neither.

They've got some lovely knitwear sets that are an equal miss for me. Given the way the mercury's soaring in Mumbai, I'm going to skip this one.

If you are planning a summer vacation to colder climes - or if you live in them - pop down to Zara for a few of these sets. That, to me, is the only time they'll make sense.

Bum Bags/Fanny Packs:

Depending on whether you speak British English or American English, you'll call this trend one or the other of the above. You know what I'm talking about though, any kid who's lived through the 90's will. They're those bags, beloved by overweigh tourists, that go around your waist. And every single design house is churning out some this season.

Zara's offering looks very Chanel-esque, with its quilted (faux) leather and smart clasp.

Forever 21's looks typically teenage and tourist-y. Some might say that it's fabulous. You can be hands free and not have to worry about your stuff. For me though, these bags will always remind me of overweight tourists, and the not-so-spectacular 90's fashions. 

It's simply a no-go for me. If you're in the market for one, however, Aldo and H&M have this style in stock too. Aldo's versions are more like Zara's. While H&M keep it classic and somewhat similar to Forever 21.

Those Balenciaga Trainers:

Yes, these. The ones everyone is either buying, or buying copies of. They're the hottest trainer/sneaker trend this season. Everyone's trying to get their hands on a pair. I'm not. Why? Well, what do you wear it with? No, really.

Unlike last summer's Stan Smith trainer trend, these sneakers cannot be worn with dresses. They won't make the dress look casual - they'll make it look ridiculous. Likewise with trousers or for that matter, anything remotely smart. You can wear these only with jeans or leggings (Unless looking like a fashion victim is your thing. In which case, go for it!) And they're not going to add to your look, rather, you're going to look like you've come straight from the gym. Unless you work at a fashion magazine or in the fashion industry, I think these are a waste of money.

If you are planning on hopping on this trend, these trainers from H&M are quite the steal. Aldo and Steve Madden have already hopped on this bandwagon. And I expect a lot of other stores to follow suit.

Teeny-Tiny Sunglasses:

We've been into oversized lenses for quite a while, so it's only natural that fashion would slide back into the microscopic lens. This is a trend I wouldn't mind getting into - if I go to the UK this year. It's a great thing if you live in a place where the sun isn't so strong. You can protect your eyes, without darkening half your vision.

These ones from Forever 21 would be just the thing if you've got a vacation to England coming up.

In India though, our killer summers under a broiling sun nix this trend before it starts. Imagine just how much you'll be squinting if you wore these sunnies from SheIn and stepped out at 12 noon.

You'd have wrinkles worthy of your Nani before you even became a Mum! Sadly, we need all the protection from the sun that we can get. So choose that 70's trend instead, and go for oversized circular sunnies or the super-large cat-eye ones. Your eyes will thank you.

There are also two trends that I'm not following to the letter.

Tasselled Earrings:

Over the last couple of years, I've bought a few pairs of earrings with tassels. Which is why I'm not rushing out to restock my jewellery drawer. I'll just use what I have. If you do want to buy some, head to H&M. They have the best selection around. These pink ones are a prime example.

Raffia Bags:

Every Instagrammer, Blogger and their uncle has one of these circular, raffia bags. This one's from Zara. (Of course it's Zara. Who else does the trends so, well, on-trend?) I wanted something I could actually use in daily life, and not just for Instagram pics. It's why I opted for the bucket bag version. My bag is raffia and faux leather. 

It's also from Zara, but I feel that this is a far more wearable way to incorporate the trend. Zara have a ton of different versions of this raffia bag trend, as do Mango. So if you're looking for something other than the regulation circular bag (and also if you want just that) head on over to their websites, and you'll find something in your price range for sure.

Surprisingly this year, there's not a lot that I don't like, and so not a lot that I won't get into. I'll give you a series of hauls from next Monday, showing you what I've purchased for this season. On Thursday though I'll give you a run down of my must-haves for this awful weather. Honestly, we've reached a point where you literally cannot step outside at all. The temps have risen so unbearably. How to survive Mumbai's scorching heat will be on the blog this Thursday.

Till next time,

MumbaiGirl.

IG: @maryannecp

Photo credits: (In case you wanna know where to get them from)

Co-ord sets: Zara

Bum Bags: Zara & Forever 21

Trainers: Hypebae & H&M

Sunnies: Forever 21 & SheIn

Earrings: H&M

Raffia Bag: Zara (& my own)

Spring/Summer Wardrobe Staples: Part Two

I'm back with the second part of my Summer Staples series. These are trends that you'll see every spring and summer. So they're the perfect investment or saving pieces. If you wanna cut corners (and who doesn't in this economy) buying these items of clothing means that you'll be in style every spring and summer. If you've just gotten your bonus, and are all set to splurge on a designer  - or just more expensive - piece, choose one of these. You'll get your money's worth of wear for several - or more, depending on how rough you are on your clothes - years.

Ruffles & Frills: 

Who doesn't love a good frill or ruffle? They make clothes look so girly and pretty. It's definitely a trend you'll see every spring and summer, as fashions tend towards loose, flowy and very girly. You can choose your frills on dresses, like this one from Zara.

Or you can choose blouses, rompers and playsuits or skirts with ruffle details. This playsuit is from Zara's 2017 Spring/Summer collection, but there's a very similar one out this year. 

The Little (or Maxi) White Dress:

If there was ever a dress that epitomised Summer, it would be the white dress. Whether you choose a mini, midi or maxi length, you simply cannot go wrong with this colour. Make sure that yours has a slight bohemian vibe, and that lace, embroidery or broiderie anglaise is an element. It will see you through every party, dinner, festival, concert and the suchlike. Pair with beige or brown accessories for the ultimate summer touch. 

Broiderie Anglaise:

Which brings me rather neatly to my next always on-trend style - broiderie anglaise. It's that white fabric with the sort of cut-out patterns on it that you see every spring and summer. It's usually white, but you can find it in a lot of other colours if you really look. It's a must-have for spring and summer - always. If you can, find your white dress in this fabric, and you'll always be in style. If you simply can't find the prefect dress, look for blouses and tops. They're a good choice as well. This Zara dress is actually a playsuit in disguise. It's a very good option, if you're in the market for something short.

Espadrilles: 

You know exactly what I mean when I say this comes around every summer. We have a lot to thank the Spanish for, but espadrilles are definitely high on the list. The rubber and rope soles can be found on sandals, wedges, block heels and flats. Just choose the type of shoe you're most comfortable with, and you're good to go. 

Flowy, Relaxed Fits:

Summer is all about comfort. No one wants clothes sticking to them when it's hot, humid and muggy. Which means that it's time to store away your body con dresses, and super-tight minis. Naturally you don't want to look like you're drowning in excess fabric, so a little balance is required. Show a little skin. It's summer, you definitely can! Sleeveless tops, or shorter bottoms are what you should be looking for. Palazzo trousers with a tank top is a great look. Likewise a short skirt with a blouse with loose, flowing sleeves.

Just make sure that the outfit actually looks good on you! Clearly, this dress from Zara does not!! 

Happy shopping!!

Next Monday I'll be talking about all the trends I'm opting not to follow. Don't miss that!

Till next time,

MumbaiGirl.

IG: @maryannecp

Credits: Some photos are taken from Zara.com and Shein.com

Riverdale Style- The Finale

And so we reach the final part of my Riverdale style posts - Cheryl Blossom. As she would say, "Why keep the best for last?"
Strangely enough, she actually has the style most worth imitating. Although it is very OTT, and far too sexy for regular life, her clothing choices work extremely well when it comes to parties, dates and the suchlike. Given that every life will have some occasions like that, it's worth taking a few notes whenever Cheryl is onscreen.

1. High heels are (sometimes) worth the pain. They elongate your legs; make you look five pounds skinnier and bring out your inner badass. This girl ain't taking no crap from no one!

 For this shorts & tee look, I've paired black Zara shorts with a Ferrari tee and nude Aldo heels. 

The choker, which you can just about see, is from H&M, from their last summer's collection. Chokers are all over stores like H&M and Forever 21 this season as well. So you can easily find something similar. 

2. Sometimes it's good to be overdressed. 

 If you are going to wear leggings and a top, why not an eye-catching red one with black leggings so tight, everyone turns to look? The top is a handkerchief-style one from Bangkok and the leggings are Zara. 

Those watercolour-esque, striped heels are from Dune circa 2015. I have to say, they are a bit difficult to walk in. But, oh, are they ever worth the pain!

While I'm not too fond of brooches, I have to admit that they're sometimes interesting to wear. I did use a few in these looks, but they're too small to be noticed. However you can get large, eye-catching ones at pretty much any stand-alone faux jewellery store. The ones on Hill Road and Linking Road in Bandra have plentiful stock.



3. Red and black is such an aesthetic. It honestly sounds very overdone. In fact, I had my doubts when choosing the outfits. However, the minute I put them on, I changed my mind. The colours really do look amazing together. 

I love this outfit so much, I'd like someone to ask me out, so I could wear this! The choker and shoes are the same as before. My top is from Cover/Story. The skirt is actually a Forever 21 basics dress. And can I say, I love this look! 

I mean, who wouldn't want to wear this to dinner and a movie with someone cute? (Although if it's in a location in Mumbai, I might switch up the heels, and wear my Aldo ones instead. Mumbai is NOT geared to dressing up)

And there you have it: my adaptation of Cheryl's look.

Which Riverdale character is your fave? Whose style would you like to emulate? Do leave me a comment and let me know.


Till next time,
MumbaiGirl.

IG: @maryannecp

Spring/Summer Wardrobe Staples Part One

While I love a good trend as much as anyone, I do also love having some staple pieces in my wardrobe. You know, those clothes that work every single spring and summer. If you're the kind of person who prefers not to change their wardrobe around every year, or if you just want some basics that will work every single spring and summer, or maybe if you'd just like to save some money and only update your accessories each season, you need to know this. As with everything in fashion, some things do come around year after year. And for spring/summer, these are the ten items that you will see on the runway every single time.

Pastels: 

Nothing says 'Spring' like these sorbet/macaroon shades. They're around every single spring. They're light and girly and fresh, and remind us that the dark days of heavy coats are in the past. Although they usually give way to bright colours for the summer, there's never been a spring runway without them. You can buy them safe in the knowledge that you'll be able to pull them out year after year and still look fashionable. 

Brights:

Bright colours are a summer favourite. I honestly cannot recall a summer when this hasn't been a trend. While neon colours may come and go, you can rely on the fact that bright reds, blues, greens and yellows will be in stores every summer season. If you'd like to blend in with the crowd, buy your perennials in red and yellow. If you want to stand out in something a little different, choose green and blue. Either which way, you'll always been on-trend. 

Floral Prints: 

Really, when has summer and spring NOT meant florals? It doesn't matter whether you buy yours on dresses, jeans, trousers, skirts or tops - you know you're going to fit right in. The blouse I'm wearing, for example, was bought several years ago, and it still looks like a current piece. You can choose your floral prints bold like this one 

 Or delicate and pastel like this dress. Both will work well in this season. (Delicate usually is more of a spring trend, with bold veering towards summer, but either will work in all seasons)





Slides (aka Slip-On Shoes):

This is such a spring/summer thing. When the weather gets warmer, we don't want fussy shoes with a zillion laces. How will we show off our gorgeous pedicures? Besides, who wants to spend their precious vacation time doing up laces? Enter the slip-on or the slide. Shove your feet into them, and boom, you're out the door. Kick them off whenever you feel like it. They make outfits feel casual and girly. You can choose open toed ones for those fresh pedicure days and closed one for when your polish is chipped. Both of these pairs are from Zara, but H&M have some awesome ones in stock right now too.

Shorts:

They're such a summer piece, I feel everyone knows and already has their faves. Whether you choose denim or fabrics, patterns or solid colours, no summer season is complete without a pair of shorts. They're great when the temps rise. They're easy to throw on. And you can wear them casually to just hang out, or slightly more dressed up on a summer date. The stores are bursting with them right now (I counted seventeen kinds of denim shorts in Forever 21 yesterday) in styles to suit every body type. Go get yours, it'll last you years! 

Don't worry, this isn't all there is; part two is up next week. In the meanwhile, go hunt through your closet for all these staple pieces.

Till next time,
MumbaiGirl.

IG: @maryanecpereira