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DFF picks of the week...
What: Let's talk lengah's.
Why: This week we couldn't just pick one, we wanted to showcase the various styles that give off that goddess-like feel.
Where: Seasons India
The simplicity of this one says it all.
Many of us have experienced the ups (and some downs) of growing up desi and love it when we can find people who can relate to the quirky ongoings in our wonderful and eccentric upbringings (kinda like how our parents feel when they run into someone from their pind – mia familia). On the Outside Looking Indian, written by Rupinder Gill, is a true story about growing up in a non-Indian town, Rupinder’s struggles and achievements, and best of all her ability to fulfill her lifelong dreams regardless of age (refer to chapter on summer camp). It’s funny, and witty with a slight note of sarcasm (we must be related) but most of all it’s inspiring. Hannah Sung, former Much Music VJ, talks about Rupinder's experiences and their shared philosophy on first chances in the May issue of Flare magazine in the article 'Second chances: Don't wait a second longer to seize yours'. Rupinder was quoted as saying "Adults are so defeatist. We get comfortable and don't bother with second chances...But most of the time they're actually first chances because they're things we've never done and wish we had."
On the Outside Looking Indian is a definite must read - side note of caution as I read this on my quiet early morning commutes on the GO train and burst out laughing (ok kinda sorta like snorting). I’m sure someone referred to it in the evening shout outs (maybe it was the evening cuss out) - sorry lady in the pink jacket, if you just let me read the part out loud you’d understand.
We interviewed (more like begged) our new DFF to learn a little more about her (not like we don’t know everything about her already) and what inspired her to tell all (kinda).
Current job: Writer.
Who/what inspires you: People who live their lives with positivity and optimism and do what they can to make the world a better place.
Favourite chocolate bar: Any. All. If they ever create one that has zero calories, I'd like to change my answer to that in advance.
Favourite place to hang out with friends: A nice dinner out somewhere.
Favourite colour: Blue
Favourite childhood memory: When my brother took his first steps at exactly eleven months old.
Top 3 things on your to do list (right now): Answer these questions. Clean my apartment. Stop watching Millionaire Matchmaker. I expect to do only one out of those three.
One thing that you regret doing/saying: Like Madonna says at the end of one of her music videos "Absolutely No Regrets". No, wait, I take that back... I regret that I just quoted Madonna.
What inspired you to write ‘On The Outside Looking Indian’? I actually didn't plan to write the book. I was doing the activities in the book and a friend suggested writing about it. I didn't think anybody would ever want to hear that story or be interested in what I had to say but I'm glad I changed my mind in the end.
You seem to have a positive take on your childhood, was this always the case, or was this the outcome of something deeper? As a kid, you want everything and never feel like you get enough. As an adult, you look back and are so appreciative for all you had. In writing the book, I really realized how much my parents had sacrificed for us and how much easier our childhoods were than theirs. It's hard to complain about not going to summer camp to people who didn't even have electricity until they were 18. Also, there were so many fun moments in my childhood and everyone in my family has a great sense of humour so we had a lot of fun.
How does your family feel about the book? When you write a book about yourself, you are really writing a book about everyone else in your life and I'm very lucky. My family has been amazing and really supportive. I dedicate the book to my parents and siblings. You don’t seem to give the impression that you missed out on anything. Is that truly the case? I definitely missed out on things. It would have been fun to go to camp with my schoolmates, explore my interests by taking lessons or spend my Friday nights with friends, instead of watching Star Trek in the basement! But I still had a great childhood and I am appreciative of all I had. (Also, if I ever compete on Jeopardy and there is a category about Star Trek, then I'll have the last laugh). Part of the realization I had during the writing of the book is that you can't always get back what you think you missed, nor should you. Nobody has a perfect childhood. Except Rudy Huxtable, but she was such a thorn in Vanessa's side.
Would you have done anything different up to this point? The old me could have written a list of two hundred items for this question. But after the amazing year I had in the book, I realized that wasting time on regrets or 'what if' is very counterproductive to one's happiness. Everything that has happened in my life has helped shape the person I am today. I'm happy with myself and I just focus on going forward' it's proven to be a much better way to live life for me.
What's your 3 year plan? The same as my 30 year plan--to keep writing for as long as possible.
Rupinder Gill is a film/television publicist turned writer. Her writing has been published in The National Post and on McSweeney's. She has also written for CBC radio, This Hour Has 22 Minutes and is currently working on a new book.
Click here for her blog and twitter info!
We heart this new trend like the boys in the Heineken walk-in closet commercial (Note to hubby - sorry that only happens on tv). With its Pakistani influences (the long flowy dress) and the pajami or trouser bottom, this beautiful style embraces all that Indian women represent - grace, style and elegance. It's a new take on the much loved Anarkali - but much more grand. Our practical side (as we always need to have one when we shop) is that the top is so long it can double as a dress (see we got your must-have excuses covered)! Variations of the suit include the back of the top being longer than the front; full length almost down to the ankles; and loads of volume (Kate isn't the only princess around here).
Many designers have incorporated this exciting new trend in their 2011 collections - we're predicting it will be a smash hit this year. The infamous Manish Malhotra was no exception and included the style with stunning displays of colour and fabric in his 2011 collections. Perfect for brides (engagements, pre-wedding events and ceremony), newly-marrieds (gotta keep your groove on), and our sexy-single-and-ready-to-mingle DFFS who just want to hit that glam factor ('cus you deserve it). We're excited to see this trend this summer, and if we see you at a party don't be surprised if our DFF street team wants to take your picture (smile for the camera and show us your best side).
-Babie
Photo courtesy of: Manish Malhotra Spring 2011 Collection
Photo courtesy of: Manish Malhotra Spring 2011 Collection
Welcome to our Lookbook where we highlight our fav shopping finds!
Have a look at our DFF pick of the week…
What: Pant suit
Why: Simple & sexy
Where: Bargello
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Statement Sets
What: Statement necklace (plus – it comes with earrings too…bonus!)
Why: Add’s interest to your outfit without going overboard.
Where: Ash Creations
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