JADE Bride Hemanshi

In our latest series on the JADE Brides about those brides who make designing a pleasure and an honour, read all about JADE Bride Hemanshi’s Jade Journey!

A Mumbai resident, Hemanshi is actively pursuing her interest in fashion by studying to be a designer herself.

JADE was a natural choice for her Big Day as she had always admired the creativity. ‘Since I study just across the road, it was a very natural move for me to admire what’s in the windows – when we decided to get married, I knew that JADE is the one brand I HAVE to visit!’

‘When I entered the store, my eye naturally went to the stunning silhouettes and the classic JADE embroidery. I fell in love with the designs and so did my family – we’re all JADE women!’

Hemanshi looked absolutely stunning during her wedding festivities and when asked about how she feels about the JADE Experience, she exclaimed, “The experience in Jade was amazing! I had a great time getting my outfits created by the designer and the service in-store was lovely – I was completely pampered and I loved it!”

Hemanshi, JADE was privileged to have designed your outfits for your Big Day! Here’s wishing you the very best! 

THE JADE BRIDE ~ Shabnum

JADE by Monica and Karishma has been honoured to have designed for some of the loveliest brides in these past 5 years. Brides from all walks of life have flocked to Jade to help them with their dream outfit for the moment they’ve been waiting for. We have been constantly inspired by these modern-day brides and our designs have tried to appeal to them on every level.

In our latest series on the JADE Bride, we sat down with JADE Brides who truly epitomize the spirit of Jade. Our first post is about Shabnum.

From London, Shabnum is part of the fashion and style industry herself. She owns Little Mistress, a brand dedicated to young women. Apart from her work, she is passionate about travelling and spending time with her family.

When the time came to choose her wedding outfit, she headed to India and the JADE posters caught her eye right away! She elaborates, “As soon as I walked in, I knew you had some amazing pieces. I am a VERY fussy shopper and I thought all your clothing was so different to what we usually see in the Indian clothing industry...I chose what suited me and didn’t have to compromise for anything!”

Shabnum looks gorgeous in her customised JADE ensemble! 

” I got two outfits – my mehendi and my wedding. My wedding outfit, as soon as I saw it, I knew it was for me!  The contrast of the colours used was stunning. Jade is by far my favorite boutique in India and I will definitely be buying again. Amazing clothing and amazing service. Could not have asked for much more!”

Like a Queen!

We wish you the best for your new life ahead!

10 Ways To Stand Out!

The Big Wedding Season is upon us and everyone wants to look fabulous – of course! How can you dress so that you can look unique and unconventional, yet very you at the same time? JADE shows you how!

1.       Don’t be afraid to experiment! Indian Style is always elegant – you can inject a bit of fun by experimenting with silhouettes. We’re in love with this multi-layered anarkali- so elegant yet refreshing!

2.    Look for ways in which you can add a bit of jazz to your outfit – the quickest way is through accessories – opt for different styles of tassels – a butterfly tassel adds instant irreverent charm!

3. Work through the trends and restyle them! Pair a fluid lehenga with a solid corset, or wear an asymmetrical lehenga – the world’s your oyster!

4.  Style your sari in different drapes – a structured jacket paired with your sari will look regal and chic. Jazz it up with unusual accessories like a deep gold nose ring or jeweled ear cuffs

5.  Step outside your comfort zone – mojris instead of heels – Chic and definitely impressive!

6. Chunk it up! Mix and match your jewellery – stacked rings and glass bangles! Your mum’s diamond bracelet with a mannish watch – so stylish!

7. Today’s It Trend – to-die-for Nails! Nail Art is a Must this Season!

8. Accentuate the Perfect Indian Silhouette with Kamarbandhs!

9. Minimalist yet indubitably stylish, shoulder cuffs styled with your blouse will be all about pairing the best of both worlds – the old and the new!

1 0.  The Wedding Season is all about Fun – chart your own Style Path!

Introducing Innana.. Celebrating Womanhood!

JADE by Monica & Karishma is spreading its wings. After establishing us as the It Bridal Boutique, we launched Innana in early 2013, thereby introducing a New Aesthetic!

The name is inspired by Sumerian Mesopotamian Goddess of Love, Beauty, War, Fertility, and perhaps best of all, Lady of Myriad Offices and Queen of Heaven and Earth.

Yes, we are all about femininity, one that is pure and free, ascetic and playful. INNANA defines a woman who stands her ground and invariably triumphs.

Thus, our collection is perfect for anyone who sees herself at Chic soirees. The INNANA collection comprises evening gowns, cocktail sarees for special soirees and capsule collection of jackets, jeans and accessories.

So, come join us as we celebrate the spirit of womanhood!

JADE's Collection 2013-14 : The Gompas of Ladakh!

JADE by Monica and Karishma has always striven to create something new, something unusual. Our quest to provide the modern Indian bride the most alluring options took us across the cultural landscape of India to Ladakh and its Gompas! 

The Sanskrit name of Gompa is "Vihara" which typically form monasteries, nunneries and university that are meant for learning, lineage and sadhana located in the regions of Ladakh in India, Tibet, Bhutan and Nepal. The art and architecture of each and every Gompas differ from region to region, however, there are common features of all the Gompas! 

These Gompas are not only famous for their places of worships for Buddhist people but also famous for their architectural marvel and beautiful paintings and locations that attracted the tourists from all over the world. A large number of pilgrims and tourists also get attracted during their religious ceremonies, annual festivals, and seasonal festivals.

This Bridal Season 2013-14, witness JADE's Artistic Marvels inspired by the Gompas come alive! 

Monica and Karishma answer all your Bridal Queries!

With the launch of our Bridal Collection 2013-14 titled 'Aum Mani Padme Hum', we invited lovely brides-to-be to ask us their Queries about Bridal Style..and here are the answers!

Q. What is the top trend this season?

A. This season, we would recommend going for more than one texture – opt for different types of embroidery that will lend a very edgy and unconventional look. And of course, you can never go wrong with pop colours!

Q. I know red lehengas are the classic option but it’s not my colour. What do I do?

A.  If you would like a traditional look that’s still unconventional, opt for warmer shades such as hues of orange, yellow, and red to lend an air of timelessness.

Q. I want to have fun at my wedding, obviously, but don’t want to be weighed down by the outfit! What do you suggest?

A.  We agree, fun is paramount! Go for lightweight lehengas made from tulle and silk. Go for embroidery in one part of the ensemble – something like this! 

Q. What are the must-have colours this season?

A. Capitalise on the weather and go for deep metallic shades such as bronze and add a bit of pure colour like candy pink! Mix and match pastels with pop hues..have fun!

Q. My fiancé and I are not into dressing up for the wedding at all but I love Jade..how can I have a Jade wedding?

A. TR Jade is about unconventional style – go for an asymmetrical skirt with a corset. It’s chic and unusual!

Another great option is a floor-length anarkali - it has a fusion vibe yet it is very festive! 

Q. I love vintage style of the 50s and 60s. How do I incorporate this into my wedding?

A  Such a classy age! Make-up’s your easiest bet – stunning catlined eyes and bouffant hair! Coral lips and tightly draped saris. Loose curls and flowers in your hair!

Q. My sister loves Jade, too! Can she get a Bridesmaid outfit from Jade?

A TR. Absolutely! We’ve got a dedicated line for the Bridesmaids – something that befits the occasion but is also perfect for the sister of the bride!

Q  I  have a themed wedding, with a specific color palette can you guys customize an outfit for me?

A. We sure do! Jade is all about unconventional styling and playing with colors.

 Customization of colors can be done according to client specifications. We do have an array of fabulous palettes for you to pick from!

Q: I need an outfit for my son’s wedding; do you have something for me?

A You can totally rock one of our gorgeous chiffon saris. We do have a striking color palette. Pair it up with a bejeweled blouse and voila!

Q: I am 17 and I want to dance at my cousin’s sangeet, without being hampered! Could you help me find an outfit that gives me enough dexterity?

Ans: Our asymmetrical lehengas and Anarkalis are lightweight and very easy to carry! Look suave and chic in a Jade ensemble for your performance! J

Q: I loved your blog about adding fun props in weddings. Could you suggest some fun ideas?

A :Quirk up wedding by having fun interactive activities! Have a bangle maker, a bolly-wood prop photo booth, a short film etc Have an offbeat playlist, Make your day special and memorable by making it fun-tastic!

JADE Inspirations : Kumbalgarh

Born as a passion bloomed into nothing less than an art-form, Jade has won admiration from all for its exquisite collections, timeless elegance and its ability to bring out the inner diva in all women! JADE is a brand that emits opulence, luxury and vintage glamour. Moreover, JADE’s opulent collections are constructed with highest form of care and precision.     

Rajasthan has served as a fashion hub for designers from India and abroad. This incessantly stylish state has innumerable and unique charms in its closet. The closer you look the more jewels you discover. In our brand new collection we have been inspired by the Grandeur of Kumbhalgarh, Rajasthan. Kumbhalgarh’s natural beauty is successful in attracting many tourists; we at JADE couldn’t resist its charms either!

The fine craftsmanship is reflected in the drawings, carvings and architecture of this fort. Be it the striking citadels or the quaint patterns etched on a haveli door our search for inspiration sure does lead us places!

Our design philosophy blends contemporary fashion with vintage grace. We strive for amalgamation of indigenous textiles that are applied across modern silhouettes. JADE’s unique pieces showcase the different phases of artistic evolutions.

Channel you inner Rajasthani princess by pairing-up your luscious JADE ensemble with Chunky earrings and a choker necklace. Step up the style quotient by adding haphazard assortment of bangles and voila! You are ready to turn heads. 

Image credit - www.tripadvisor.in

                           www.iloveindia.com

Your Big Day!

The JADE Bride is constantly on the look out for the unusual, the unconventional, something that's off the beaten path.. Fiercely independent, she's determined that one of the most momentous events of her life be the same!

That's why we compiled a list of wedding ideas that would appeal to our JADE Brides!

1. Having a dreamy fairytale-esque wedding? Opt for antique jhoolas scattered across pavillions for intimate conversations.

2. No Indian wedding can be complete with something sweet! Delectable personalised cupcakes are quite the luxe option.

3. Weddings are the perfect time to get your photos clicked - you look fabulous! Photo Booths are a fun way to capture some memories. Get a fun background, a few props, and voila! Something you'll cherish for the rest of your life.

4. The Bangle-Maker is an idea that would appeal to ladies regardless of age, style, political affiliation!

5. Themed Weddings are quite the rage now! Why don't you discover a theme that's special for you and your fiance? Maybe you'll love travelling...a destination wedding's the way to go! Maybe you'll love the glam and masala of Bollywood..opt for a Bollywood-themed wedding! The world's your oyster.

6. The ideal solution for a tech-savvy bride! Instagram! Create a special hashtag for your wedding and have guests Instagram photos of your wedding...fun!

7. Create a short film around your wedding, you and your fiance!

8. Pre-Wedding Shoots can have a completely different vibe than the Wedding Shoots.. Go for a casual, very you Pre-Wedding Shoot!

9. As day turns into night, and your guests are enjoying the reception, masks a la Venetian style could be a great accessory to add a bit of style and eccentricity to your wedding!

10. And, last but not the least, why not concoct a special wedding cocktail? After all, it's your day!

The Artistry at Aurangabad!

At JADE by Monica and Karishma we strive to amalgamate inspirations from our ancient historic jewels with modern day luxury. Our search for some inspiration led us to the world heritage sites Ajanta and Ellora located in Aurangabad, Maharashtra.

Our rummage through the glorious history of Aurangabad’s heritage has left us awestruck! The spell-binding beauty of Bibi-ka-Maqbara, the exquisite cave paintings in Ajanta Ellora, the Soneri Mahal and Pithakhora has convinced us that the plethora of magnificent aura has been around since like forever.

Strategically placed on the Deccan plateau this city is undoubtedly the land of plentiful. Aurangabad is heading towards rapid industrial growth, but it retains the nostalgic memories from its glorious past.

The Ajanta and Ellora caves situated in Aurangabad exhibit incredible murals and paintings molded into them that reflect the magic of Tantric Hinduism. The subtle yet striking color palettes that can be seen murals in dense caves of Ellora have been major inspirations behind JADE’s surreal ensembles.

The stunning cave paintings and stone carvings in Ajanta and Ellora mark the changing fortunes of three major religions Buddhism, Hinduism and Jainism between the 5th and the 10th century CE. The unique and breathtaking cave paintings have drawn visitors from all over the world making it one of the most visited places in Maharashtra. 

The rock-cut masterpieces in Kailasha, Ellora remind us of the dedication and skills of the craftsmen of that century. Like the mesmerizing murals at Ajanta-Ellora a JADE ensemble too is created with Avant-Garde perfection! The mood and grandeur exhibited by these caves have set tones for exquisite JADE collection.

The abundance of cultural wealth cumulated in India continues to enthrall us! Our maneuvers have led us to explore desolate areas of art. At JADE our search for unique styles have led us to explore newer dimensions of our very own Jade masterpieces! 

Image Credits : World Heritage Site

Signature JADE : Sheer Impact!

In our series on Signature JADE, our latest post on what makes us uniquely us, we explore the Unconventional Lehenga Styling at JADE!

Lehengas, such an integral part of a trousseau, have always been the center point of a wedding... What the bride chooses to wear, and how she wears it can set the mood of the wedding and can dictate the décor and the styling. With so much importance given to the lehenga, it is imperative that the lehenga suits the bride perfectly and vice versa! 

For the Bride who believes in being different, sheer Lehengas are not only unique but also declare ‘Fun’! Step aside from conventional sparkly ensembles for a classic ensemble in tulle. Pair it with a sultry corset, and a new look is born! The fall of sheer fabric helps to celebrate our curves like never before. Feather-light lehengas also mean that you enjoy yourself to the max, and look stylish doing it. 

For the Bride who is always looking for the Next Big Thing, asymmetrical lehengas would be right up your alley! In signature JADE shades, a strong lehenga could be paired with a romantic lace top for that touch of femininity! The high-low hemline proves to be Ethno-futuristic that is contrasted with drapes which helps create drama and an interesting form.

How would You style your Signature JADE Lehenga?

The Exquisite World of Saris - Welcome to Orissa!

In our second post on the Exquisite Saris of India, we’re here to talk about the timeless elegance of Orissa’s weaves. Famous for its Ikat weaves, Orissa has a wealth of weaving styles that have created some evergreen favourites.

Ikat Weaves

The hand-woven textiles of Orissa stand out with their unusual patterns and vibrant color schemes. The inspirations for these sarees come from the rich heritage of the sub-continent. Typical design motifs include rows of birds and animals, fish, seashells, rudraksh beads and temple spires. 

The rural areas are famous for creating weaves in tassar silk with a brilliance, glaze and texture that is unmatched. The rare silk fabric produced at Nuapatna in Cuttack district embellished with verses from the Gitagovinda is used to dress the idols at the Jagannath Temple.

Apart from the renowned Ikat Weave, Orissa has some lovely distinctive saris as well! The Berhampuri Pata are heavy silk sarees with narrow borders, generally woven without any intricate motifs.

The Saktapar sari, from the weaving looms of Sambalpur, Bargarh and Sonepur are identifiable by the double ikat checkerboard pattern and brocade border. The weaving arts of Sambalpur-Sonepur and Nuapatna have greatly influenced each other.

Style from Orissa

The Bomkai cotton saris from Ganjam district, named after a tribal village, have been influenced by tribal art, and are embroidered with temple spire patterns on the border.

The other typical varieties of Odisha  saris, in silk and cotton, include the glossy Khanduas having elaborate designs, the rich red jotai ikat with rows of stylized trees and temple spires on the borders, the unbleached cotton kotpad from Koraput offset by a vibrant red dyed border, the Taraballi and the Bichitrapuri. The tribal people of the State also excel in producing textiles of myriad hues using vegetable dyes.

Silk Saris from Orissa

An Orissa drape gives you an edge and that distinct style. A large Bindi, lots of kohl with chunky ear rings are the only accessories you will need to look like an ethnic diva! 

JADE by Monica and Karishma is amazed by and inspired by the beauty of these weaves and compelled to create ensembles that speak of timeless wonder. 

Image Credit : www.cohands.in

                         www.backstrapweaving.blogspot.in

The Exquisite World of Saris - The Bengali Drape!

Derived from the Sanksrit word ‘sadi’, meaning strip of cloth, the sari has been a garment that has captured our imagination – since, well, forever! Timeless and elegant, the sari is such a versatile garment that a nip here, and a tuck there, would create a whole new silhouette and look – what a great idea for fashionistas!

The JADE Saree is all about grace and how you style it! In our new series on Saris, we set out to explore the different styles of draping saris that stand out.

A perfectly draped Sari is bound to make you the cynosure of all eyes. The diverse landscapes govern the fabrics, designs and uniqueness. Global acceptance has grown, garnering appreciation, from fashion icon Victoria Beckham gracing the cover of fashion magazines and Gisele Bundchen to the Pussy Cat Dolls dressed and draped in saris, to Maharani Gayatri Devi in the French chiffon to Vidya balan raising the bar for the desirability of the sari.

The Bengali Style of Draping may, perhaps, be the most popular, because of the myriad ways it can be styled. A traditional sari in strong shades can be draped in a traditional manner. Paired with a classic gold blouse,the result would be quite regal and pleasing to the eye!

For a chic soiree, a tightly draped sari would look unconventional and unique! Pair it with a broad belt around the waist, and the silhouette created will be nothing short of breathtaking!

How will you style your JADE Saree? 


Image credits- Wikipedia, High heel confidential 

SIGNATURE JADE : The Tassel Bar

The sparkle of jewels, and the charming turn of a lehenga. Dreamy dupattas, and details, details! Doesn’t it paint quite a picture?

You’ve decided on your lehenga – the lehenga you’re going to get married in, the one you’re starting your life in. And all it needs is a little special something…

In the second post on what makes JADE have that distinctive style, we’re talking about Tassels. Purely ornamental (though they play such an important role!), JADE’s tassels have always been all about adding a dose of unique styling into your ensemble.

The Tassel Bar at our store is a must-stop for our lovely clients who are amazed by what an added accoutrement does to transform the look.

Incredibly detailed and embroidered, our tassels are jewels by themselves. A peacock motif sneaks in a bit of fun at your wedding!

If you’d like to jazz up your ensemble, sparkle can never go wrong! We adore this jeweled tassel – so pretty!

How would you like to add a bit of charm?

Inspirational Hampi!

JADE by Monica and Karishma has always aimed to play a pivotal role in the preservation of the cultural scape of India’s rich history of material culture. Using traditional techniques such as Benarasi Saree weaving & hand-woven embroidery that elicit an aura of royalty and decadence has been Jade’s motto.

In India, land of the plentiful, inspiration is not always hard to find. The rich history has provided so many different styles and perspectives; one is, honestly, spoiled! Jade has always drawn from this wealthy bank and have walked away richer.

One of our constant inspirations has been the glorious architecture at Hampi in South India. The Vijaynagar Dynasty, established in 1336 C.E created masterpieces of the naturally available soapstone! Buildings ranged from civic & military to religious & royal palaces.

Inspired by other schools of architecture, the final results displayed a rich amalgamation of inspired styles. Drawing both from Hindu and Islamic architecture, this can be witnessed in the geometrical structure of the temples and the intricate detailing of motifs.

JADE is inspired by this attention to detail as well as the structuring which transform the style into a masterpiece of art and dedication. We are inspired by the classic style, and the inspired creations – and isn’t that what Jade is all about? Reimagination & Preservation!

Images from www.hampi.in

The Right Pick : Choosing Your Lehenga!

The question has been asked, and the dates have been set. Before you set off in a wedding tizzy, planning ahead on what to wear on the most important day of your life is always a good decision!

Choosing your Lehenga is often an arduous task and you would definitely need a checklist. Where is the wedding taking place? What suits you? What look are you looking to get?..The list goes on!

Starting off with a basic question – What’s my Personality like? – will go a long way in choosing your Lehenga.

Personality Type: Bubbly Princess

You practically know all the lines to Alicia Silverstone’s Clueless and Sonam Kapoor’s Aisha – and have a closet to rival theirs! You like a bit of sparkle, a bit of drama, and bright colours! Opt for JADE’s jeweled lehenga with its contrast pink tones. Definitely dramatic, but also very very feminine.

Personality Type: Classic Sophisticate

You prefer the classics in all – art, music, travel et al – and a stylish alternative to it all is what you want, every day. You have a strong hold over vintage culture and prefer subtle sheen over gloss. JADE’s subtle but intricate lehenga will make you look twice!

Personality Type: Dreamy Wanderer

You’re happiest when you’re out on the road and probably start planning your next holiday when this one ends. The wedding’s on a fabulous beach, somewhere out in the Caribbean and is truly a celebration of what you and your fiancé are all about! Go for JADE’s dreamy lehenga. Incorporating unusual styling, it’s all about the distinctive vibe!