Sanianitos Style – Not just the Bohemian Destination Bride

Posted on by admin

Photo Credit: Melvern Issac

The Bohemian is often considered the outsider to society and conventional norms. Although not a hippie this identity strikes a chord with lifestyles earmarked by tendencies to revolutionize thinking adopted by knowledge seekers and dreamers with soulful purposes. Usually, they occupy roles in the field of art, music, literature, dance, fashion to name a few than filling orthodox titles in the world of work. Generally, the destination bride who identifies with some if not all of these qualities can be defined as the Bohemian Destination Bride. Trinidad is so multicultural that there is even space for the Bohemian Destination Bride. Moreover, the designer who works on Bohemian accessories for the destination bride is also a Bohemian at heart. Her name is Sanian Lewis and her label Sanianitos is a Bohemian Destination Bride’s dream come true.

Photo Credit: Nnella Stella

Sanian Lewis’ journey took her on a path that commanded her open mind and an open heart. Most Bohemians tend to believe that they have to fulfill their calling in life and so did Sanian. Her challenge to find herself took her from accomplished tennis player to the U.S.A as a student. She pursued studies in Psychology but eventually made a U turn to head for Trinidad to feverishly extinguish the burning desire to live her passion for fashion at Caribbean Academy for Fashion and Design. After some time Sanian would complete her academics and end her tenure working at a boutique. Backed by an understanding of people, retail concepts, styling, design and a desire to create from the bubbling ideas swirling around in her mind Sanian Lewis was ready to start her niche contemporary label of accessories featuring her aesthetic of Trinbagonian Bohemian jewelry, flower crowns and sunglasses (including other eyewear).

Photo Credit: Shaista

It’s been almost four years since Sanian has launched her brand Sanianitos. It is safe to say the brand is well received and Sanian has managed to fill a demand by a growing community of Bohemians locally and internationally especially the destination bride. Sanian describes her accessories as unique, bold and unforgettable. She mentions that each island or person, though similar in some ways, has a perspective all their own. Similarly, attention to detail, innovation and interest are applied to each creation without compromising its individual aesthetic. The brand hinges on its foundation; consciousness of local inspirations and consistency in producing high quality Trinbago Bohemian products that reflect the environment’s wealth of culture.

Photo Credit: Sanianitos Instagram

Destination brides who identify with this Bohemian vibe and look should invest in Sanianitos for several reasons. The aesthetic is second to none. Choose from an array of designs for flower crowns, jewelry and “sunnies”. Bridal accessories can also be customized to your preference. The accessory will be produced in Trinidad and Tobago. The bride literally takes away a souvenir that she can actually use on more than one occasion in the future. The bride takes the responsibility of making positive contributions to the destination’s economy by supporting a small business. These versatile pieces can be used for the destination bride’s engagement or on the wedding day (and are picturesque) and they also pair well with resort wear for the bride’s honeymoon. Sanian has also done a more futuristic concept for eyewear with her tinted rosette rimmed sunglasses.

Photo Credit: Crystal Ivy London Instagram

Sanianitos is an exceptional bohemian brand to enlist on the details card for the destination bride’s wedding. This way the bride can select or create a flower crown and note this as the designated design guests can purchase to fit in with the bohemian theme. The bride can go as far as gifting her bridesmaids these items to be worn on the wedding day and many times after. These items would definitely not be left as dust collecting mementos. Flower crowns and sunglasses can be worn in spring, summer and fall if not winter. There are infinite festivals, themed parties and outfits waiting to be styled with these pieces in the owner’s wardrobe. Sanianitos jewelry may have even more adaptability and functionality with the wearer incorporating these pieces year round. Overall, the Sanianitos brand stands as a reminder of the labour of love, soulful attachment and the story of how a fearless woman found the courage to not only listen but act upon her instinct and make her dream a reality.

Photo Credit: Sanianitos Instagram

With jewelry, Sanianitos is combining precious metal clay medium and goldsmith techniques currently in production. The new collection is the first of an AnceStory trilogy. The first story is called The Uli. “Uli” is a feminine art form and a form of communication by the Igbo women of West Africa.  The Igbo considered beauty in-tandem with morality and the women used this traditional art form to enhance and define it, whether on the body as walking canvases, or on houses. It is hoped that the collection empowers and uplifts those who buy them.

Photo Credit: Sanian Lewis

Photo Credit: Sanian Lewis

Photo Credit: Sanian Lewis

The Bohemian Destination Bride can make her Sanianitos purchase at Meiling at #6 Carlos Street in Woodbrook. You can also message on Instagram or send an email to info@sanianitos.com. Soon brides and guests will be able to shop online as the brand will look to carve its space on the e-commerce market.

Instagram: www.instagram.com/sanianitos

Email:  info@sanianitos.com

Website: sanianitos.tumblr.com

 

Save

Save

Save

Save

Save

VdV Accessories for the Destination Bride

Posted on by admin

Admittedly, the best accessory any bride can wear is her smile – a natural creative design crafter by the highest power. Oftentimes, the genuine smile is the direct reflection of the happiness of the bride. She is truly her happiest when she feels most comfortable in her own image. This could mean donning some jewelry, a fancy veil or adding simple but luxurious pieces to her outfit.

(Pearl Hair Comb by VdV Accessories)

(Sequins and Lace Bra by VdV Accessories)

The destination bride also accessorizes her look. In Trinidad, there are several bridal accessory designers who maintain distinct aesthetics and are exceptional in the quality of the work they deliver. Darcel de Vlugt of Van der Vlugt, recently unveiled more of the VdV accessories she has been working on by creating a separate social media presence for the pieces. Island brides are now swooning over VdV accessories, which are quickly becoming “must have” pieces when it comes to the finishing bridal touch.

(Fresh Water Pearl Hair Pins by VdV Accessories)

( Pearl Hair Comb by VdV Accessories )

The VdV brand has always been closely linked to the designer’s own story. More than just a designer, de Vlugt sees herself as a creative, having served in the role as Editor-in-Chief for CFstyle.com as well as Fashion Editor for teenage lifestyle magazine AmPassion Teen.  A professionally trained dancer from a young age, she chose to study art and fashion after a sports injury rendered a career in dance unlikely. However, she completed her dance studies past A level standard to attain her Associate diploma in Modern Theatre Jazz – making her qualified to teach dance – at just 18 years old. She has been a freelance writer for many years, writing for media publications around the world on fashion and lifestyle, as well as freelance ghost writing and a published poet and short story writer. While these creative undertakings have helped to define the woman that she is, Darcel is also very well known for her work as an ambassador for Vitiligo, a skin condition she has had since she was five years old.

( Swarovski Crystal Crown by VdV Accessories)

(Custom Swarovski and Pearl Waistband by VdV Accessories)

A graduate of the London College of Fashion, University of the Arts, London with a BA in Fashion Design Technology (Women), Darcel debuted her first post-graduation collection at the Islands of the World Fashion Week in Nassau, the Bahamas in late 2008, returning the year after to win the Next Generation Designer Award with her second collection. Deciding to venture into the bridal realm in 2013, she empathizes with the great lengths brides go to in order to look and feel their best, during what can be a very testing and fragile time. This, she says, come from her own life journey with regards to beauty and strength, both inner and outer. She considers herself to be a “world citizen”, having lived in Israel, Syria, Cyprus and England throughout her life and travelling extensively beyond that. She speaks four languages, including Greek fluently, and has a strong understanding and appreciation for various cultures, countries, languages and all the adjustments necessary when moving from one place to the next; something a destination bride will definitely benefit from. Her experiences around the world have definitely contributed to the unique aesthetic of the VdV brand, including her accessories, which are designed to evoke “a moment of fantasy and inspiration through the noise of the norm.”

( Swarovski Body Jewelry Cover Up by VdV Accessories)

( Swarovski Body Jewelry Cover Up by VdV Accessories)

The designer operates a one woman show from conception to consultation to execution, exercising her skills in pattern making, fitting, sewing, hand stitching and particularly beading and lace embellishment, which she has become known for. The range of body chains, hair combs, bandeaus, hair pins, veils, crowns, bridal belts and other pieces for bridal and special occasion is created using fine materials like genuine Swarovski crystals and pearls, silk and handmade imported lace.  She prides herself on not being conventional with the designs that are 100% her own, and pushing brides to consider less traditional options, particularly in the Caribbean where wedding traditions are still heavily embedded in the culture.

(Bird Cage Veil by VdV Accessories)

(Lace and Feather Headpiece by VdV Accessories)

“My best work has always been the original, non-traditional work that the bride trusts me to create for her; the work that is most me,” she says. Darcel designs with a whimsical touch of fantasy, shown in her runway work over the years. Since moving into bridal, old vintage glamour is also one of her biggest inspirations, most evident in the VdV accessories. The unconventional bride can definitely incorporate these far from spurious pieces into her attire, both for her special day and beyond. Even for the simple bride who may not subscribe to the “glitterati”, a touch, a sparkle from VdV Accessories is the perfect way to bask in a slice of bridal heaven.

( Veil, Dress and Hair Piece by VdV Accessories)

( Cathedral Veil by VdV Accessories)

Overall styling advice and other services for both the bride and her bridal party are available from the designer, who has found over the years that there is never a dull moment in the bridal world, with the most unusual requests constantly coming her way. One of her favourite projects to undertake is customization of gowns for the bride or bridesmaids, by taking something pre-purchased and transforming it using the VdV aesthetic into something new and original for its owner. She also believes in repurposing the bridal gown, having transformed her clients’ gowns into christening gowns when baby comes along and other items for the bride after the wedding. Having created her own daughter’s christening gown from a mix of her mother’s wedding dress and her First Communion dress, Darcel is also quite passionate about bringing luxury to the little ladies, continuing with her story.

(Pear and Crystal for Sienna Bandeau by VdV Accessories)

( Bridal Pouch with Lace and Pearl details by VdV Accessories)

Bridal season is in full swing so if you assume that this designer has her hands full, you are correct. Nonetheless, VdV accessories are available and made to order, either from previous designs or custom. Inspired destination brides can even collaborate with the designer to create gifts for the bridal party; a simple pearl necklace may be the perfect finishing touch presented as a bridal show gift to the maid of honour or bridesmaids. My advice is to get in touch and book a consultation as soon as possible, as time is definitely of the essence. Brides are able to pick up their pieces in studio, or have them delivered, even shipped internationally, so destination brides can definitely rest easy when it comes to their accessories.

( Vintage Hair Comb by VdV Accessories)(Swarovski and Pearl Dynasty Hair Comb by VdV Accessories)

I previously mentioned Darcel operating all aspects of her business. She is a major player in our fashion industry, both home and abroad. However, she contributes more than her fashion expertise, by increasing the marketability of destination Trinidad & Tobago to those brides who have the glitz and glamour of a VdV accessory in their trousseau and ever after. Mostly, purchases of VdV accessories make a profound statement – the destination bride stand to support a talented young woman who is a mother and a creative, who, despite medical challenges and life obstacles, has accepted herself and stands to be a beacon of hope for those women facing struggles but who also dare to dream and rise above them. This is the story behind her brand, and the story of the women she encounters. There is little doubt that as a bride who spends time with this designer, you will be inspired by more than the accessories she creates for you; you will be inspired by the value of her journey and the ability to move fearlessly into the next chapter of your own story.

Instagram:  www.instagram.com/VDV_Accessories

House of VDV Studio:  Central Trinidad

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/houseofvdv/

Blogspot: http://houseofvdv.blogspot.com/

Email: houseofvdv@gmail.com

 

Save

Save

Save

Save

Save

Save

The Sophisticated Destination Bride by Charu Lochan Dass

Posted on by admin

Destination brides have bridal identities too! Just because the bride is having a destination wedding does not always mean that she will be clad in typical resort wear of typical materials and shades of white.  Obvious images that grace the cover of some wedding magazine or cover story with exclusive photos of the random celebrity and her destination wedding in her common tropical inspired wedding dress comes to mind .  However stop for a minute or two and recollect that under this façade is a living person who has likes and dislikes, who has their own culture and experiences which have played a huge part in forming their identity (apart from their parents’ DNA). Now that you know this information think of the identities in your girls squad or circle or whatever you all call it these days. Are the identities as colourful as a rainbow? Can you find the tomboy, the girly girl, the hippie, the feminist, the “bourgeoisie” ? If the answer is yes then you can understand my train of thought.  Simply, brides have identities. Although destination weddings may allot some restrictions to brides in terms of choice of materials for climate this does not exempt the destination bride from having a bridal identity. Charu Lochan Dass is a designer based in Trinidad and Tobago. CLD is the name of her fashion house. She creates clothing inspired by women and her niche caters to their distinct identities. Undeniably, she will be featured here because of her unsurpassed empathy for identities as it relates to the destination bride.

Charu Lochan Dass was born in India and brought to Trinidad to live at an early age of six years. She grew up in Trinidad for some formative years of her life and later returned to India to pursue her studies in Business Administration. She left India again to study Fashion Design and Marketing at London College of Fashion. This decision to change fields was not the result of an overnight epiphany. Charu was exposed to creative thinking and creative design as a child. She developed a flair for the artsy field. In her teen years she converted her mother’s intricate Indian hand woven table runner into a belt. Moreover, Charu  spent some time with one of her aunts in India who operated a fashion boutique. Charu would take her ability to sketch designs there and bring them to life via execution of the design plans. When she returned to Trinidad she would start up her retail boutique. Yet, she would not stop there she was always at the grind designing and launching collections. Finally CLD the atelier was launched at #55 Gallus Street Woodbrook in Trinidad. CLD made its debut and its contribution to the local landscape then it began its journey to take over the fashion globe. The designer’s aesthetic had such a worldly appeal that the brand has stamped its name in fashion markets as far as Amsterdam and Spain ( sold exclusively at BoutiKm5 in Ibiza). Charu’s inspiration comes from almost anything that moves her soul. Nonetheless, the CLD brand exudes sophistication, elegance, poise, sensuality, feminine wiles and characteristics that accentuate the silhouette of the woman. Charu’s collections range from prêt a porter, bridal to resort. Often the fabrics Charu work with for these collections are silk, lace, chiffon and georgette to name a few. These types of materials allow for the movement of the clothing. Her designs come alive and sway with the wind and movement of the woman.

CLD’s recent collection is great for the destination bride who associates herself with that sophisticated bridal identity.  This destination bride does not need to hassle herself with bridal attire. If I were to describe this type of bride I would say she maintains a bridal identity that is a paradox. Her sophistication is fierce yet charming. This equates adjectives for the modern day woman who is also a destination bride. Her wedding and wedding moon pieces can be found at CLD. She can even go ahead and postpone her “bridezilla” coronation and opt for the “bridechilla” role and become the queen of “bridechilla” village with this new solution. The bridal resort collection strikes a chord with grace and empowerment. Destination brides can embrace a collection that features minimal patterns, bell bottom pant suits, peplum tops, capes, A-line, sheath and trumpet silhouettes which are flattering for most body shapes. Inherent to this collection are signature CLD details that highlight Charu’s exposure to creative culture. In addition CLD launched “Satya” an Indo fusion fashion collection for the modern woman. The timing is perfect as brides can find more variety to add to their bridal wardrobe and resort collection!! Notwithstanding, CLD also offers seamstress services  for destination brides who need a few adjustments to their choices. The cuts and styles work well for the bride hosting her destination wedding in Trinidad and Tobago. Albeit the destination bride can also work with the designer with her own design in mind and together they can bring this idea to a reality.  The decision to choose CLD would be a consequence of wise investment thinking as these designs are high quality, unique yet functional.

The CLD brand is powerful. It transcends epochs and stands out as the epitome of the new age destination bride. Women of any colour, social class, culture and background who identify with the caricature of the sophisticated woman can wear CLD.  Charu understands the women who are future destination brides, bridal party members and guests. She connects with them through these designs. In addition, Charu recently tied the knot and is living the wedded life so she has more experience and perspective to add to her destination bridal design etiquette and fervor. The bridal party and guests can also benefit from choosing CLD, the bride’s new found designer binge. Everyone can browse through the many resort and prêt a porter collection from CLD to put together their attire. Their one of a kind outfit would definitely stand out. They would be taking a labour of love with them when they return to their host country. The versatility of the pieces would allow them to wear these clothing for several other occasions. The wearer does not have to worry about looking out of place or being over dramatic as these designs were created with the woman in mind and it resonates with trends that ensure a global appeal.

Fashion designers in Trinidad and Tobago do not mass produce as the major fashion houses in other fashion destinations. Hence, when the destination bride chooses a local designer such as CLD she can bet that she will be helping to support small micro economic enterprises, diversifying the destination’s economy (via sales), distributing a multiplier effect  and circulation of dollars in that economy, diversification of the local tourism product. At the same time she gets to experience the creative process and by product of creative thinking and design that is handmade, created from the depth of the artisan’s soul , curated with individual aesthetic and customized with love just for her.  The dynamics, rationale and advantages of buying local for a destination bride are undisputed and outstanding.  So whether the bride is planning for her betrothal, destination wedding or wedding moon CLD is brand she should consider looking up and scheduling a bridal consultation for herself and her girl squad. When all goes well she can enlist the brand at her bridal shower or in her wedding invitation for the attendees to also sneak a peek at CLD’s designs and make their own preparations. Finally, this would ease some of the drama out of the bride’s life and she can breathe a sigh of relief whilst checking off these items from her wedding list.

Contact CLD here

Instagram

www.instagram.com/charulochandass

Facebook

https://www.facebook.com/charulochandass/

Phone

1.868.222.5789

Email

charulochandass@gmail.com

 

 

 

 

 

The Neha Karina Destination Bride

Posted on by admin

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/nehakarinaTT/

Trinidad and Tobago is eclectic as a weddings destination. There are so many cultures here. It is possible to do any type of wedding imaginable in a location that is united by cultural differences. Undeniably, hosting an an Indian Wedding right here is an immaculate reality. This destination has gorgeous temples, qualified marriage officiates to do Hindu wedding rites, exceptional wedding planners, Indian food caterers and of course Ind0 Trinidadian fashion designers.  Moreover, couples can choose from an array of design concepts to  copy and paste from including traditional Indian cuisine, designer wear and décor.  They can opt for Indo Trinidadian inspired weddings which are  adaptations of Indian culture rather a fusion created in Trinidad and embraced by all.  The added bonus here is that the couple gets to experience firsthand distinctive culture in an untapped (English speaking) destination at cheaper rates and closer proximity than flying to the East (if the couple is from the western side of the world). The bride can be least of all worried if she decides to choose a local  designer.  Her outfit would be designed and customized just for her. No one would be wearing a replica of her outfit. Needless to say her bridal party and her guests can also get their fittings and customization done at the same place. Instantly, the designer that comes to mind for the destination bride who yearns for a more ethnic appeal is Neha Dawar of the fashion label Neha Karina.

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/nehakarinaTT/

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/nehakarinaTT/

Neha Dawar was born in India. I officially proclaim that she is a love child of India and Trinidad. Although she grew up in Trinidad she pursued her studies in fashion at schools in India, Dubai and Trinidad. Not too long ago she graduated with her BFA in Fashion Design from The Caribbean Academy of Fashion and Design. Often she visits India and Dubai where she is exposed to fashion from that side of the world. She has been quoted as discussing her overall aesthetic as East Indian with West Indian and European details to minimalism steeped in subtle traditional elements to edgy, contemporary modern day Indian wear. The designer often starts with natural fabrics although she has used man made fabrics at times. She believes in starting with minimal designs then building and eventually developing them to the point where they are ready to achieve the style and look set out for it.  Neha is special because of her educational background, experience and the fusion blood line that pulses through her veins. Her creativity and source (s) for inspiration come from a creative space that is common to her only. There is only one Neha Dawar and this is boldly found in her label Neha Karina.

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/nehakarinaTT/

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/nehakarinaTT/

The Neha Karina Destination Bride can choose from several designs in her bridal collection. Her engagement wear can also be found among Neha Karina’s collection. The finest silks featuring intricate hand beading, hand stitching, embroidery, luxurious details and embellishments add regality and pomp to the Neha Karina bride’s identity. Undoubtedly, it was this feeling of royalty that inspired Neha to create, “The Heiress Bridal” collection, “The Princess” collection and  “ The Timeless Unique Bridal” collection  to name a few.  Now brides who want to live Disney inspired Princess Jasmine roles can look to her collection to live that dream. Even those who do not take to Disney’s productions but swoon over the labour of love and lavish details of the graceful and poised Indian Bride can peruse the collection. Modern day women who seek to find their bridal identity can also find something in the collection that suits them. Neha designs bridal accessories.  These accessories include minimal to ornate jewelry designs and other pieces that complement her stunning bridal collections.  If the bride has her own ideas then she can also connect with the designer and have a few consultations on how they would collaborate to bring to life a design. Neha has designed pieces for Hindu and Muslim brides .

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/nehakarinaTT/

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/nehakarinaTT/

The bridal party can feel less than left out at Neha Karina especially if the bridal party includes “millenials”. This is not to chastise the brand in any way as a brand for a younger demographic as senior persons from other generations often enjoy Neha Karina’s fashion and style. Basically, this is merely noted here because “millenials” are taking over and if they are not getting married one can bet they will be part of a bridal party or on someone’s guest list. Needless to say this generation is conscious of brands that are rich in culture and purpose. Hence, if the bridal party is not styled by Neha Karina outfits but they acquire bridal accessories or statement pieces, these will be worth more than memories of a time gone by for them. The symbolism and profound attachment to Neha Karina’s pieces will be pronounced by the bespoke emblems of their support for movements from cultural integration to world peace.  In any case they would still be on point as the Neha Karina brand is a powerful fashion label that is pivoted on creative and high quality fashion design that empowers the individual to stand up for a greater cause and make positive impacting contributions to the world.

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/nehakarinaTT/

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/nehakarinaTT/

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/nehakarinaTT/

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/nehakarinaTT/

Honeymooners and guests can also find reassurance in any on Neha Dawar’s collections as the designer also creates resort wear for the tropics.  Forget about being the belle of the ball or wearing what the best friend wore for her honeymoon. This is not “Keeping up with…” the lifestyles of others but “keeping up with… carving out one’s own bridal identity and lifestyle.”  Neha Karina’s resort wear is trendy. It’s contemporary designs stand out. They are designed to suit the climate of the tropics and capture the fusion of Indo Trinidadian culture without being skewed as religious Indian wear. These designs persuade brides to build their entire bridal wardrobe inclusive of honeymoon wear from Neha Karina collections. The designs are simple and functional but riveting in aesthetic appeal. Brides can step up their bridal game with modern day resort wear and set their own bridal trends. The flexibility of Neha Karina resort wear entails wearing these same pieces throughout the year and being astute enough to mix and match prints. Accessories like bangles, earrings and head pieces can be kept and used to add a pop of colour to everyday wear or a hint of swag.

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/nehakarinaTT/

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/nehakarinaTT/

Neha Karina’s flagship store is based at Hilton hotel in Trinidad. This designer boutique is also a one stop shop. Neha Karina offers styling services for the bride inclusive of hair and makeup. This makes things even more convenient and accessible. I recommend the couple to pre plan a trip and stay at the hotel where the bride will be able to work with the designer through design inspirations, consultations and fittings. The designer also does customized wedding invitations among other things. Perhaps the couple can even discover design ideas with Neha Karina for tokens/wedding favors for their “big” day. Whilst in Trinidad the couple can hire a wedding planner and go site seeing to scout for scenic locations to exchange nuptial vows and do a taste testing of  Indo Trinidadian fusion cuisine.  If the destination couple is interested in having an ethnic wedding or ethnic inspired wedding attire then their bridal bliss is guaranteed in a Neha Karina ensemble.

Connect with Neha Karina

Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/nehakarinaTT/

Email Address: nehakarinatt@gmail.com

Telephone No. : 1.868.621.5907

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nehakarina.offical/