Fashion
Zeeshan Ali, The Man Who Transforms Personality Through Makeup
Zeeshan Ali, a revolutionary makeup artist and Instagram blogger, uses makeup not as a beauty tool but to showcase dramatic expressions
Text Credits: Nivedita V
Zeeshan Ali is a famous Instagram blogger, model, fashion icon, and an astounding makeup artist. He moved to Bangalore after chucking his initial plan of pursuing medicine and doing something that he was actually passionate about, where he uses people’s face and body as canvas to showcase bewildering transformations. He shares with us his experiences, beliefs, and his journey on how he has reached this far.
What made you take up makeup as your profession?
As I realised that medicine wasn’t my pursuit to happiness, I quit it and chose fashion as my term of education through which I was exposed to modelling and makeup. The same old application of makeup got me bored. As makeup became my niche, I started experimenting with it. That led me to the discovery that with my skills as a designer, makeup could be used for transformation. And as I could use designs to incorporate costumes into it, it helped me in merging many things to form that final spectacular image at the end.
Why did you decide to continue it?
I started doing makeup on myself and that’s how I got into it. Many people started asking me to do makeup on them and after doing that I saw a completely different personality in them which motivated me to pursue further. Once when I tried on a girl, I knew just by using makeup the person had a complete ‘makeover’ in her personality, from a shy girl she transformed into a powerful goddess.
Which is your favourite work that you have done till now?
Well, each work has a different story behind it. There is always a uniqueness in the process of its creation and that is what makes each work, one of a kind. One of my favourites is the one where I used my mother’s handed down products, her garments, and jewellery, and incorporated them into one of my looks. It bore a special meaning as I was using inherited products and had an emotional connection with that work.
What sets apart your makeup style from the others?
There is no monotone. It’s ever evolving and changing. It’s not constant. And for me as a person, that’s what keeps me excited as I’m always on my feet wondering what to do next. Also, I think that’s what people appreciate about my work. I have my own specific ways of using my products. I don’t limit my products to where it is only supposed to be used. I play with a lot more than just beauty makeup and I think that concept has been introduced to India very recently. So I think that’s something I have an upper hand at. I had recently done a shoot incorporating the Met Gala theme of 2018, Heavenly Bodies, which is one of the craziest transformations that I have done until now.
Whom did you enjoy working with the most?
Recently I had an opportunity to work with Waseem Khan, a well-known photographer in India. He is such a humble person and the energy that he brought was exceptional and that’s the kind of atmosphere I love to work in because it helps in bringing out our best work.
What kind of response have you received?
I receive amazing messages from my followers which makes me feel that the effort put in has paid off. Around six to seven months back, I was in Mumbai and I had met a person at a party and I had absolutely no clue who he was. He walked up to me and told me how my work had helped him embrace his side of creativity which he had always tried to shun. That’s what made me realise that my work is creating an impact.
How do you think the makeup industry has evolved?
Earlier, though the makeup industry was in the mainstream, it was very secluded and the artists had their own hacks and people did not have any knowledge about it. Presently, there has been a huge shift in the industry and it has become a case where the industry is inclusive of everyone. People are experimenting more than they used to and the boundaries that were set only to basic makeup have been broken and expanded. Finally, I would like to say that, makeup is an expression, a coverage to gain confidence and to be present with full confidence.
Fashion
The Year of Statement Hat
When Anya Taylor-Joy stepped out at this year’s Cannes Film Festival in Jacquemus’ Le Chapeau Bomba, a delightfully oversized raffia hat it was clear that this accessory had become the season’s ultimate statement piece. The fall 2024 runways echoed this sentiment, with Chanel and Prada showcasing hats as the new must-have. Think of Sarah Jessica Parker’s oversized Maryam Keyhani creation, worn on the set of And Just Like That… earlier this year, or Margaret Qualley donning Chanel’s nautical style at Cannes. These hats are for the main characters who command attention, making a bold statement long before you arrive.
Altuzarra’s fall 2024 collection featured boxy headpieces on some models, each designed to evoke a specific character. “It was about finding joy in wearing a complete look, fully embodying a character,” explains designer Joseph Altuzarra. Interestingly, this was the label’s first foray into hats beyond casual knit and woven styles. ‘We didn’t plan to sell them,’ Altuzarra admits, ‘but they ended up being a hit.
Similarly, milliner Gigi Burris O’Hara has experienced a surge in demand. Although she launched her brand, Gigi Burris, in 2012, she only opened her first store late last year. “During leaner times, when people become more selective with their spending, they seek joy in thoughtful purchases,” she explains.
After years of embracing a more casual style, we’re now gravitating toward all things expressive. Maximalist content creator Sara Camposarcone has been embracing pieces from small brands like Potion23, renowned for its whimsical, witchy hats. “I feel like I can now wear bolder headpieces that complement my extravagant outfits,” Camposarcone shares. “Since discovering vintage fashion, I’ve developed a passion for finding great vintage pillbox hats or a 1920s fascinator.”
Fashion
The Iconic Bags and Their Names
Handbags are more than just functional accessories; they are statements of style and symbols of status. Over the years, several handbags have achieved iconic status, becoming synonymous with luxury and timeless fashion. Here’s a look at some of the most iconic bags and the stories behind their names.
Hermès Birkin
Origin: The Birkin bag was born from a chance encounter between actress and singer Jane Birkin and Hermès CEO Jean-Louis Dumas on a flight in 1981. Birkin mentioned her struggle to find a perfect weekend bag, leading Dumas to design a bag tailored to her needs.
Icon Status: The Birkin is known for its exclusivity, craftsmanship, and high price tag. It has become a symbol of wealth and luxury, often with a waiting list of years.
Chanel 2.55
Origin: Created by Coco Chanel in February 1955 (hence the name), the Chanel 2.55 was revolutionary for its time, introducing the concept of a shoulder bag, freeing women from the inconvenience of clutch bags.
Icon Status: With its quilted leather, chain strap, and distinctive CC lock (added in the 1980s by Karl Lagerfeld), the 2.55 remains a timeless piece, beloved by fashionistas worldwide.
Louis Vuitton Speedy
Origin: Introduced in the 1930s, the Speedy was designed as a smaller version of the Louis Vuitton Keepall. It became particularly popular in the 1960s when Audrey Hepburn requested a smaller version, leading to the creation of the Speedy 25.
Icon Status: Known for its classic monogram canvas and practicality, the Speedy is a versatile bag that has remained a staple in the fashion world for decades.
Dior Lady Dior
Origin: First presented in 1994, the Lady Dior bag was initially known as “Chouchou.” It gained its iconic status when Princess Diana was photographed with it in 1995, leading to its renaming in her honor.
Icon Status: The bag’s signature cannage stitching and dangling Dior charms make it instantly recognizable. It’s a favorite among celebrities and royalty, symbolizing elegance and sophistication.
Gucci Jackie
Origin: Originally called the Fifties Constance, this bag was renamed the Jackie after Jackie Kennedy was frequently photographed carrying it in the 1960s.
Icon Status: The Jackie bag’s hobo shape and piston strap closure make it a timeless piece. It has seen numerous revivals and remains a classic in the Gucci lineup.
Prada Galleria
Origin: Named after the historic Prada boutique in Milan’s Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, the Galleria bag epitomizes the brand’s heritage and craftsmanship.
Icon Status: With its clean lines, structured shape, and Saffiano leather, the Galleria bag is a symbol of modern elegance and understated luxury.
Fendi Baguette
Origin: Designed by Silvia Venturini Fendi in 1997, the Baguette was named for its shape, resembling the French baguette loaf, and designed to be carried under the arm.
Icon Status: Popularized by its appearance on the TV show “Sex and the City,” the Baguette became a must-have accessory, famous for its countless variations in colors and materials.
Balenciaga City
Origin: Introduced in the early 2000s, the Balenciaga City bag, also known as the Motorcycle bag, was designed by Nicolas Ghesquière. Its casual yet chic design quickly gained a cult following.
Icon Status: Known for its slouchy silhouette, distinctive hardware, and tassels, the City bag became an icon of the 2000s and continues to be a beloved piece.
These iconic bags have transcended fashion trends, becoming enduring symbols of style, craftsmanship, and luxury. Each bag tells a unique story, adding to its allure and making it a coveted piece for fashion enthusiasts around the world. Investing in one of these iconic bags is not just about owning a stylish accessory but also a piece of fashion history.
Cover Story
Sonam Kapoor Ahuja’s Traditional Ladakh’s Heritage Attire
As Anant Ambani’s pre-wedding festivities come to an end, Sonam Kapoor Ahuja chose to dress in Ladakh traditional garb. The event featured a number of topics, with India’s rich past being the focus yesterday night. Sonam Kapoor Ahuja emphasized this by dressing in Namza Couture, which was established in 2016 by Padma Yangchan and Jigmet Disket and is renowned for its commitment to Ladakhi fabrics.
The Mogos, a gown-like item with a shimmering zari border and pistachio green brocade, was part of Sonam’s ensemble. She wore a rani-pink shawl called a “Bok,” which is usually made from silk or goat skin and is worn to keep warm by the locals. This outfit was made of silk by Benaras artisans, and it had intricate phoenix embroidery, which stands for knowledge and vigor. It also had a crane image, which stands for prosperity and peace.
Her jewelry selections also honored custom; she wore a neckpiece set with diamonds and an emerald stone in the center. She accessorized this with striking statement rings and copper handcuffs, all tastefully matched with pearl earrings. She chose metallic juttis to complete her look, and she carried a bespoke purse by re-ceremonial.
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