Fashion Frames
A ROYAL FEEL-IN CONVERSATION WITH MIRA GULATI
Mira Gulati, principal designer and founder of Mirari Jewels, tells how crafting something stunning is the price of creativity
Words by Atheena Wilson Photographs by Mirari
Dressed in a salmon pink suit, and accessorised with a sparkling diamond choker resting resplendently on her neck, Mira Gulati epitomises poise … just like her jewellery. In a competitive market as luxury jewellery in the country today, Mira has remained unhinged and pursed her dreams which are evident in her ephemeral pieces. An identity of class begins with her logo, featuring elegant sings which looks like that of a gossamer butterfly. Mira says this symbolises angel wings, and was emblematic of a “brand that flies free of tradition and strives for the extraordinary.” With a natural taste for aesthetics, Mira’s designs go beyond just ornate, rather a proud statement on individuality and quality. Although trained as a gemologist from the Gemological Institute of America, Mira’s designs showcases the rich heritage and grandeur from the Raj and Mughal eras.
What did you envision when you started Mirari?
A jewel may be very beautiful but it is only when you can personally relate to it, because of its intrinsic meaning or story, that you feel confident about wearing it. Just aesthetically placing stones together is inconsequential. It matters what they portray and hence, you will see my jewels inspired by a myriad – from stories from the rich Indian history, to nature.
Raj and Mughal eras showcases exquisite jewellery. How do you personally connect with these designs?
I have always admired our queens for their classic trends, beauty and mysterious persona, as they have a striking royal appeal, and have always wanted to create pieces of art, keeping them as muse. You will see a lot of Mughal inspiration in my collections. Nature has also been an underlying inspiration and is reflected in my signature collections comprising of butterflies, peacocks, and other marvels.
You have said that heirloom jewellery involves a strong emotional quotient. How have you been able to redesign your jewellery?
Every piece of jewellery holds a special place in a woman’s heart. We started this redesigning concept with an outlook to keep our jewellery special forever. With an intensive designing thought process, the jewellery is given a new look without touching or hampering the sentiments attached to it. The style is played around with, while the emotional value remains intact. This helps the wearer to don that piece of jewellery without a worry of being outdated yet at the same time exemplifying a statement of elegance and choice.
When it comes jewellery, the price of gemstones and gold is crucial. The concept of design still has an unknown price tag. How has this changed in your customer’s perception?
The variation in metals, both alloy and pure, along with a rise in varied gemstones with designs have raised the bar of the consumers’ expectations. Being well-travelled and keeping a keen eye, jewellery connoisseurs have accepted the fact that not only the gemstones or gold are key factors of the price, but also the exclusivity and inimitable designs with excellent craftsmanship play an equal role.
In your opinion, what makes for an “oomph statement” with the different types of Indian wear?
Long chandelier earrings will complement a heavy anarkali suit. A striking cocktail ring goes well with this ensemble. In a saree, keep it elegant with a chic one-line necklace, bangles and small earrings. One can experiment a lot with a lehenga, such as big neck pieces/chokers, rings, bangles, and even headgears go very well.
What makes a jewellery design contemporary?
The meticulous blend of inspirational fashionable facets, with orthodox traditional aestheticism, makes a design contemporary. The process of creation is evolutionary and anything regal or imbued with pristine charm is attracts attention.
Which artists have inspired you the most?
There are many artists who inspire me in my work, each for different reasons and artistic sensibilities. One of my favourites, though, is Vincent Van Gogh. He was a passionate, moody artist whose love of nature, drawing and watercolours reflected in all his works and creations. His signature inspired artwork like “Sunflower” and “Almond Branches” were beautiful renditions of nature on canvas. In fact, one of Mirari’s creations has also been inspired by his iconic work, named ‘Starry Starry Night’.
What advice would you give on pulling off jewellery with class?
The most important advice I would like to give is to make sure you are comfortable in what you are wearing. Do not forcefully sport something, just because it is in trend.
What are the trends from Mirari on the red carpet?
Our cocktail rings and earrings have made sensations on the red carpet already. One fine example is Aishwarya Rai Bachchan who recently sported our ring for a red carpet event.
What is your favourite piece from your designs?
Mirari’s polki peacock earrings are one of my most treasured pieces of jewellery. Its intricate design and delicate contours exude a feeling of rare elegance and matchless grace.
In the spotlight :
An iconic piece of jewellery from a movie
Necklaces worn by Nicole Kidman in Moulin Rouge.
Most appropriate jewellery for a strapless gown
Classic diamond choker.
Least explored gemstone
Paraiba tourmaline.
A jewellery trend that’s making waves
There are two – redesigning and modular jewellery.
A major jewellery fashion faux pas.
Sporting together different (solo) gemstone jewels in different pieces. For instance, emerald earrings with a ruby neck-piece and sapphire ring look gaudy.
Fashion Frames
Fashion Frames : Who Wore What at Ambani Ganesh Festival
The Ambani family celebrated Ganesh Chaturthi with extra enthusiasm this year, marking Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant’s first festival as a married couple. The grand festivities at Antilla saw numerous Bollywood celebrities arriving in their finest traditional attire, transforming the religious occasion into a stunning fashion display. Let’s take a look at some of the standout outfits worn by these stars.
Kareena Kapoor and Saif Ali Khan effortlessly stole the spotlight with their stunning ensembles. Kareena looked absolutely radiant in a red suit set by Sabyasachi, featuring a straight kurta with golden borders, a matching red churidar, and a beautifully embellished dupatta. She completed the look with a Sabyasachi clutch, statement golden earrings, and metallic heels. Her minimal makeup, a red bindi, and a sleek bun added the perfect finishing touches to her elegant appearance. Saif Ali Khan complemented Kareena’s look in a traditional red kurta paired with a classic white dhoti, creating a harmonious and stylish duo. Their coordinated outfits added an air of grandeur to the festive celebration.
Tamannaah Bhatia made a striking statement in a vibrant purple lehenga by Torani. The lehenga featured intricately embroidered panels in a mix of colors, giving it a vibrant and eye-catching look. She paired it with a short blouse, adorned with delicate floral embroidery, adding to the charm of the ensemble. Draped with a purple dupatta featuring carved borders and silver motifs, Tamannaah’s outfit was a perfect blend of traditional elegance and modern flair.
Ananya Panday turned heads at the Ganpati celebrations in a breathtaking golden saree by Tarun Tahiliani. The saree featured intricate silver embroidery throughout and was paired with a short choli. Its unique double pallu, elegantly draped over both shoulders, added a touch of sophistication to the ensemble.she accessorized with striking green and gold earrings and a matching necklace, perfectly complementing her look. She carried a silver purse and opted for rosy makeup with bold red lipstick, while her sleek, open hairstyle completed the look. Her ensemble was a true showstopper.
Sidharth Malhotra and Kiara Advani made a glamorous entrance at the Ganpati celebrations. Kiara dazzled in an elegant ivory and gold Anarkali suit paired with a golden churidar. Her stunning outfit was adorned with exquisite gold jewelry, smokey eye makeup, a red bindi, and nude lips, enhancing her graceful appearance. She featured a beautifully blushed complexion and styled her hair in a center-parted bun, adding a classy touch to her look. Sidharth complemented his wife perfectly, looking dapper in a peach floral kurta paired with crisp white pants. Together, they formed a stylish and striking pair, bringing an extra touch of elegance and sophistication to the festive celebrations.
Sara Ali Khan made a vibrant and striking entrance at the Ganpati celebrations, accompanied by her brother Ibrahim, in a colorful lehenga designed by Mayyur Girotra. The skirt was a riot of colors, adorned with intricate golden prints, while her blouse added a contrasting pop of purple. She completed the ensemble with a gold dupatta, adding a luxurious touch to her festive look.Sara accessorized with a golden choker and matching earrings, perfectly complementing her outfit. Her makeup was radiant, featuring kohl-rimmed eyes, shimmering lips, a tiny bindi, and flushed red cheeks that tied the look together beautifully. She left her hair short and wavy, adding an extra dose of glamor to her festive appearance.
Shraddha Kapoor looked stunning in an eye-catching red sharara set at the Ganpati celebrations. The ensemble featured a short kurta paired with flared red pants and a matching dupatta, creating a beautifully coordinated look.Embracing minimalism, Shraddha skipped heavy accessories and opted for a subtle makeup look, allowing her natural beauty to shine through. She wore her hair loose, enhancing the simplicity and elegance of her style. Her understated approach made her stand out effortlessly, proving that sometimes less truly is more.
Sonam Kapoor wowed everyone at the Ganesh Chaturthi celebration in a bright crimson crushed silk lehenga. The outfit featured an ankle-length pleated skirt and a short choli with a cross-tied back, adorned with golden latkans. She completed her ensemble with a matching dupatta, accessorized with gold ornaments, and carried a chic gold box purse.Her makeup was flawless, featuring shiny nude lip gloss and a touch of blush on her cheeks. She opted for smoky eye shadow and applied traditional red alta, adding an Indian cultural flair. A playful crimped braid added a touch of fun, perfectly complementing her beauty and the festive look.
Kajol exuded elegance in a deep blue saree at the Ganesh Chaturthi celebration. Embracing minimalism, she kept her look understated by leaving her hair open and opting for an almost no-makeup look. This simplicity highlighted her natural beauty, making her effortlessly graceful and chic for the occasion.
Madhuri Dixit stole the show at the Ambani’s Ganpati celebration, dressed in a stunning traditional custom Patola weave sari. The sari, adorned with intricate work, showcased her timeless elegance and grace. Her choice of attire, rich in heritage and craftsmanship, perfectly complemented the festive occasion, making her one of the standout fashion icons of the evening.
Karan Johar was a standout at the grand, star-studded celebration, donning a sophisticated ensemble by Sabyasachi. He chose a rich green kurta paired with a matching overcoat, both adorned with intricate designs. His outfit added a touch of refined elegance to the festive occasion, showcasing his impeccable sense of style.
Fashion Frames
InstaGlam Ft. Parvathy Thiruvothu
Parvathy Thiruvothu, Not only is she celebrated for her powerful performances, but her Instagram feed also doubles as the perfect lookbook for fashion enthusiasts. From elegant traditional wear to chic contemporary outfits, Parvathy’s style is as versatile as her acting skills. Join us as we explore her most iconic looks, breaking down the fashion choices that make her a true style inspiration.
The Black Bae
Parvathy’s urban look in the modern black dress from Shivanii.co is a perfect blend of elegance and contemporary fashion. The dress itself exudes sophistication with its sleek silhouette and modern detailing. Abhinav’s styling choices complement the look beautifully, allowing it to stand out without overwhelming Parvathy’s natural beauty. The choice of simple jewellery from Luna Chic is a masterstroke, adding just the right amount of sparkle without taking away from the dress’s statement.
The Mallu Vibe
Parvathy’s traditional look for the promotional event is a perfect homage to Kerala’s rich cultural heritage. The Kerala saree from Salt Studio’s Onam collection exudes elegance, with its understated yet sophisticated design that captures the essence of the festival. Diya John, the founder of Salt Studio, has styled the look impeccably. The statement jhumkas from Amrapali Jewels add a regal touch, enhancing the traditional vibe while making a bold style statement. Prakruthi Ananth’s makeup complements the overall look by keeping it natural and glowing, allowing Parvathy’s features to shine through without overpowering the simplicity of the saree.
The Bold Statement
Parvathy’s bold look, styled by Abhinav, is a striking example of how to mix subtlety with boldness. The beige cords set creates a neutral base, allowing the oversized printed coat to make a powerful statement. The coat’s vibrant pattern and oversized fit add a contemporary edge to the outfit, making it both eye-catching and fashion-forward.The earrings from Curio Cottage are the perfect accessory, adding just the right amount of drama to the look without overwhelming it. Samson Lei’s makeup artistry enhances the overall vibe, with a look that plays up Parvathy’s features while maintaining harmony with the bold outfit.
The Saree Game
Parvathy’s look in the black hand-embellished patchwork saree from Medha is a stunning blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern styling. The intricate patchwork on the saree adds a unique texture and depth, making it a standout piece. Abhinav’s styling brings out the beauty of the saree by pairing it with carefully chosen accessories from Sangeeta Boochra and Aquamarine Jewellery. The chic hairstyle by Ganesh Hair Designer perfectly frames Parvathy’s face, adding a modern twist to the traditional attire.
The Golden Goddess
Parvathy’s look in the golden tissue saree by The Amara Collective is a perfect example of understated luxury. The saree’s subtle sheen and rich texture make it a standout piece, exuding elegance and grace. Abhinav’s styling once again shines through, pairing the saree with minimalistic yet striking accessories from Misho Designs. The makeup is kept subtle yet impactful by Samson Lei, allowing the saree and accessories to take center stage.
The Boss Babe
Parvathy Thiruvothu effortlessly embodies Boss Babe vibes in this standout piece from Ranna Gill’s Urban Prairie Collection. The design reflects a perfect blend of contemporary style and artistic fashion, making it an essential wardrobe piece for those who love to make a statement. Abhinav’s styling enhances the outfit’s powerful aesthetic, ensuring Parvathy’s look is both commanding and chic.Prakruthi Ananth’s expertly curated makeup adds the finishing touch, accentuating Parvathy’s features while maintaining a polished and professional vibe.
Fashion Frames
Karan Torani’s Illusion of Love – Leela Collection
In his latest collection, Karan Torani draws inspiration from Radha Rani’s timeless and youthful beauty as depicted in ancient scriptures. Revered by devotees, particularly in Braj, Radha Rani is described in the *Brahma Vaivarta Purana* as a goddess with a molten gold complexion, adorned with garlands of precious gems and flowers, often dressed in traditional sarees or ghagra cholis at her temples.
Tamannaah Bhatia, renowned for her style and elegance, recently embodied the essence of ‘Radha’ in Karan Torani’s latest collection, *Leela: The Illusion of Love*. This collection beautifully celebrates Goddess Radha Rani and her timeless love for Krishna. Tamannaah’s portrayal of ‘Radha’ is truly mesmerizing, transporting you to the enchanting lanes of Vrindavan, where you’ll find yourself captivated by the divine love story of Radha and Krishna.
Tamannaah’s photos from Karan Torani’s latest collection exude a divine grace that feels blessed by Radha Rani herself. One of her standout looks features a stunning pastel blue organza lehenga paired with a pink-toned dupatta. She accessorized with a delicate choker necklace and a sheesh patti, while soft makeup and a long braided hairstyle completed the ensemble. The addition of mogra flowers in her hair perfectly captured the essence of ‘Radha Rani’.
Another show-stopping look was Tamannaah Bhatia’s stunning appearance in Karan Torani’s *Chandramallika Manmayi* lehenga. This exquisite purple-toned ensemble, crafted from the finest raw silk and adorned with intricate zardozi, dabka, and doria embroidery, left us in awe. The actress paired it with two odhnis inspired by the Rajputana ghagra-choli, accessorizing with a choker necklace, a bangle, and an oversized maang teeka.
Tamannaah Bhatia left us speechless in a stunning green-toned lehenga paired with a red choli, a rani pink dupatta, and a mustard yellow net dupatta. She elevated the look with a choker necklace and a sheesh patti, while finishing touches like alta and a kolka chandan bindi added to the traditional charm.
Explaining the significance of the name ‘Leela,’ the label shared in an Instagram post that Krishna is known as the master of illusions, with his divine plays, or ‘Leelas,’ from Vrindavan to Kurukshetra, captivating the world. Krishna takes on the form in which each devotee envisions him.
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