February 21, 2011
Lazy Sunday lunch with some friends in Windsor, no formalities so I decided to put on my favourite skinny jeans which compliment nearly everything in my wardrobe and are super comfortable. I’m getting ready, and put them on but to my horror I hear the shameful noise of my jeans ripping, not once but twice. Whilst I’m planning the funeral of my skinnies, I’m perplexed with the death of my jeans, and then quick calorie calculations takes place in my mind. Okay, a slight overindulgence during the Christmas holidays left me 5 lbs happier however right now my clothes were screaming out at me. We all think it at some point, so let me say it – OH MY GOSH, what happened!!
I am blessed with Marilyn Monroe curves but more recently I’ve been feeling like Oprah as my weight has been going up and down like a yoyo. I must confess I have a sweet tooth which is my downfall, and more recently I seem to be going over the limit of my daily dose of chocolate. Time to become victorious over my vices that include the addiction of Chill Doritos and Cadburys caramel.
As we go through life’s challenges; tensions of work, heartbreaks, family and finances, our crazy lifestyle takes a toll on our health and I believe I am guilty of getting lost in my own world and neglecting myself in the quest of helping others whilst life whooshes by. I’m sure many of us feel the pressures but whatever the difficulty maybe your health needs to be in superb condition, otherwise how are you going to do all the magnificent things in your life when your out of breath constantly. So Prioritise Yourself and put yourself at the top of your To Do List. There can be no compromise if want Inner Greatness.
To achieve Ultimate Greatness, your inner world and outer world must balance. If ‘Outer’ can be described as your appearance, the image you project to the world or what the world see’s; and then your ‘Inner’ regarded as your wellbeing and spirituality. I know from personal experience once you master your inner greatness you will find outstanding and unbelievable results in life.
Bombarded with celebrity fitness video’s, weight loss programmes and diet plans, people seemed to be obsessed with losing weight. Rather than be inspired its actually all rather overwhelming. With my repetitive ankle injury still playing havoc I am looking at new ways to conquer Inner Greatness.
My suggestion to you is to set yourself a realistic goal and one that is achievable. If the purpose is meaningful for you it will help you change your mindset much quicker, and then losing those extra pounds will become easy and effortless. My mission is to get back into my shoes, as much as I love running around in my distinctive yellow gazelle’s which are well loved, I miss my heels.
If you require that little push to get motivated then get your self a personal trainer. I had a personal trainer a couple of years ago but my first training session I’m sure he was trying to kill me. They push you to your limits and when you think you can’t do anymore they ask you to do 10 more minutes. Maybe its time to contact Darren again.
Explore different ways to get your heart racing and focus on an active lifestyle. Take up a new sport or join the gym. Bikram yoga, Zumba dance classes, or Latin dancing, put on those running shoes and get moving, just do whatever it takes to build strength and get back into shape. I’ve been introduced to kettle bells, I’m totally loving this new workout. Its time to embrace and enjoy exercise, love it like it’s your best friend.
Schedule time for your Inner Greatness, Prioritise Yourself. Your worth it !!
February 18, 2011
I’m looking forward to an exciting London Fashion Week (LFW) first day and first stop to see Ashley Isham’s who is show casing his Autumn/Winter Collection 2011 at Mercer Studios.
Nobody does high-octane glamour better than Ashley Isham. Ashley was the official designer at the 2004 BAFTA’s and his creations have been worn by celebrities such as Florence Welch at the 2010 Brit Awards, Christina Aguilera at the 2007 Grammy Awards, Kylie Minogue, Girls Aloud, Erin O’Connor, Camilla Rutherford, Shinghai Shoniwa (of the Noisettes), Pixie Lott and Lady Gaga.
I make my way to Covent Garden, I arrive to discover the show isn’t running on time, no surprise as many don’t run on time anyway. I’m not made for queuing or the cold, it’s freezing and waiting in the wind chill factor of -75 its much fun, I thought my nose was going to drop off.
Not impressed by the venue or organisers, crowd control was messy and entrance for invitations was done by calling out every colour rainbow dot on the invitations ,which took forever, the show finally took off 120 minutes late.
A floral collection, lots of block colours especially emeralds, strong focus on the headpieces which accompanied the dresses, somewhat like a Japanese themed Ascot, I believe Ashley’s Singapore roots influenced his catwalk theme. Catwalk soundtrack was graced with the voice of Adele – ‘Rolling in the Deep’, loving this amazing artist, she gave the catwalk some extra kudos. The audience did witness the fall of an unfortunate model whom lost her balance and fell gracefully but like true trooper dusted herself off and continued with her walk.
VIP’s attended the show included Brendan Cole from Strictly Come Dancing, Paloma Faith the talented singer that dresses with a twist of eccentric vintage in her styling and indeed the lovely Kimberley Walsh from Girls Aloud.
Brendan Cole
Ashley’s collection was feminine and colourful. A nice use of textures, the off-the shoulder side ruffle dress in metallic gun-metal grey was the highlight for me, bold and sexy.
The catwalk ended with a ‘Dances with Wolves’ finale headpiece, just replace the feathers with flowers, floral’s seem to have a big inspiration in his collection.
A great collection and a great way to begin LFW, now the show is over its time to wrap up warm before facing the deathly cold outside equipped with my scarf, gloves, hat and my coat however decided to visit the ladies before returning home. To my surprise bumped into Kimberley Walsh, who is more beautiful in real life, great smile and gorgeous mermaid hair. I must admit she has always been my favourite from all the Girls Aloud’ band members, just because she is the most down to earth and very polite. Wishing her all the success in her solo career.
Maryum Sharif and Kimberley Walsh
Looking forward to more LFW shows after the weekend!
January 30, 2011
A beautiful sunny day and even though I’m hobbling on my sprained ankle I am looking forward to the Asiana Bridal Show at Park Plaza, River Bank Hotel in London. This is the first Asian show to kick off the wedding season and I hear its the one to be at.
I have been to many Asian shows, Mela’s and Asian fashion shows however I must confess I am a virgin bridal show visitor. My quest is to find out if brides and grooms to be and their families find any value from attending shows such as these.
Sunday afternoon traffic but I reach the venue fairly easy with the help of my Tom Tom, lots of free side street parking which makes life easy. I knew exactly were I was going as I just followed the trail of Asian people who led me to the Hotel.
I entered the Hotel and collected my ticket along with my show guide. I was astonished to see how many men were attending the show too, were these reluctant grooms dragged here by their overexcited brides? I was expecting a Bridesville Festival however this was one family day out, parents aunties and uncles and their children too.
Over a 100 exhibitors on four levels dedicated to pure Bridal Heaven including an array of photographers, jewellery and designers, decorations, event managements, photographers, make-up and hair services, DJ, cards, marquee, cakes, rings, event management and the list goes on.
I have been so engrossed in my own world of volunteering and charity work the past year that it was super seeing so many familiar faces.
My first acquaintance Mr. Swani, I see Swani more at the corporate events and awards ceremonies these days however I do know Swani for many years now as he was my sisters wedding photographer and he did a marvellous job. Wedding photographers are many but people skills and personality are essential when it comes to weddings. If you cannot communicate and control an Asian wedding then your in the wrong job. My family is a combination of Italian and Pakistani but Swani kept us laughing the whole day.
Swani and Maryum Sharif
As I wondering in this Bridal Laberath I heard the sweet sound of the Piano, recently started my piano lessons I simply had to request Gary a tune by Alica Keys, he delighted me with a bit of New York, great job Gary! Gary and the Piano come with Kudos as additional services, Kudos are specialist for your wedding music needs.
Gary from Kudos
Another company I was impressed by was Premier Rouge, there services included catering to event management. I found the Ascot Race Course an interesting wedding venue, which is near to where I live. I started to be consumed with my own wedding fever….
Pleasantly surprised to see some facebook friends who recognised me even though I was in glasses and writer mode, amongst the old friends was the cool Mr.Voodoo Entertainment himself – Sadiq Chikte. Sid told me he just passing by but branching into corporate events and bridal services too (Chameleon Events coming soon).
I bumped into Kiran Malik (model) who looked very ‘Pakeezah’ in Kiran Khan’s jewellery. Kiran was surely Pretty in Pearls. Emerald is also making a big come back, celebrities such as Anglina Jolie wore green at the Golden Globes and one of the colours of the season. Also modelling at the exhibition were models Sapna, Sam B and Taz.
Kiran Malik – Model for Kiran Khan Jewellery
I stumbled across Tilda rice area and tasted their new flavours, I love rice and love food, my mothers side of the family are big rice lovers so Tilda’s not an unfamiliar taste to me. My forte in food led me to be invited as an official rice taster for Tilda, to which I agreed gladly. I was also given two different samples of their 2 minute microwave rice. What a fabulous idea, a quick remedy for an empty stomach especially if when your rushing around during your busy pre-wedding days. Moreover, I admire Tilda’s outreach programme, which encourages farmers in India in growing traditional Tilda Rice quality grain. Do you know that India produces 100 million tones of rice a year, second biggest producer of rice after China. Tilda helps and shares benefits of producing the traditional basmati rice with famers, which can provide a great source of income.
I met some of my friends, one of them was getting married this year and she really needed some inspiration and advice.
Our first stop was Kyles Jewellery – the pioneers of costume jewllery. With the recession the father of the bride has a close eye on his wallet and thats why you can’t go wrong with Kyles Collections which is proving a more popular option with the brides. I haven’t seen Rav since he got married last year, so it was lovely to meet him and congratulate him on his marriage.
Outfit hunting for a bride, what a challenge with so many great designers who do you choose? As an Image Consultant my advice: choose design, not a designer, choose a colour that suits you and don’t follow fashion trends.
One of the leaders in Bridal wear is Mongas, so I was thrilled to see Reena at the show. I popped in a few times in their Southall store last year but she was soaking up the sunshine of India. Monga’s models and clothes looked beautiful and total perfection, nothing less is expected from Mongas. If its variey you want then Monags is a place to be, they will indulge you with their innovate styles which caters for all budgets.
Reena at Mongas
Next door I discovered Ekta Solanki, I’m in heaven, vibrant colours, unique designs, Ekta’s designs are like jewellery for the body. These funky designs have a feminine flow with a 21st century attitude. To my delight I discovered that Anisha Vasani – Editor of Asiana Magazine was also wearing Ekta’s outfit for the show. Anisha was wearing a stunning coral outfit with beautiful delicate embroidery that complimented her body shape and skin tone, also one of the colours for the spring summer 2011.
The time passed so quickly and we were told that we needed to reach the fashion show early if we wanted to get a good spot, however an exquisite card stand took my fancy. Cardwala had bespoke wedding invitations, a great variety of their designs on display. What a great little memorabilia for your guests and family to enjoy of your big day.
The finale Fashion Show. 11 Designers showcasing their creations. Make and hair was by Dil Matharu and Ambreen Ahmed official team for the show. The stage was dressed like the Garden of Eden, glorious green leaves.
1. Roshans
Opening designer instantly got everyone in the mood with the song ‘Sheela ki Jawani’ featuring Katrina Kaif. Great designs by Roshans, loved their diamante dupata’s, which perfectly placed on the hair, a real stunning feature of the outfits.
2. Ziggi Studio
I’m a Moghal fan. I love that whole era and loved Ziggi’s collection, a swagger style for the Modern Man. Unfortunately just abit of travelling as this designer is based in Birmingham.
3. Kyles
Audrey Hepburn look a likes suddenly appeared beautifully one by one, big hair and dazzling jewels accompanied by a contemporary dance act. Kyles highlight was the new hair accessory – jewellery that caresses the long braid with jewels. Totally divine!!
4. Khushboo’s
Nice collection full of colour, loved their sexy style necklines, perfect to show off the brides jewellery.
5. Sonas
This collection used a lot of net and embroidery in their outfits, which were over loaded with dazzle whilst some of the backs of these dresses were alomost backless, not to wear if you come from a very tradtional family.
6. Kiran Khan
A dreamy collection; an unusual contrast of pink green and blue. Loved the soft and floaty fabrics and a feather fan accessory adding the 1920’s touch to the catwalk.
7. Ekta Solanki
An amazing opulent collection, full of vibrant colours combined with differnt textures and somewhat tapestry like. Velvets, pinks and maroons. One of my most favourite designer’s in the fashion show. Classic cuts that exude quality, love them all.
8. Mongas
Beautiful collection, traditional colours, mostly reds and classic off white to champagne shades, stunning as usual and cute dancing by the models.
9. Truphae
A very traditional collection, never use red and turquoise, these colours just don’t work. Loved the gorgeous lace backs of the outfit, they looked gorgeous along their funky florals, which is big this season. Highlight was there fancy peacock feather headpiece and dress extension, not sure if I’d wear it but a catwalk item spectacular.
10. RDC
White and cream colours, I liked the outfits, they were well matched to each model, and a cute umbrella accessory also used as a finishing touch to add drama to the outfit. A dancing menswear collection, lets see if I can get my future husband to break dance at the wedding like those catwalk models!!
11. Guls Style
Vintage vibe and enjoyed this collection too, nice colour graduation of dusty pinks. Loved the layered dress, layers are big this season too, (remember follow this trend depending on your body shape) flowing jackets, with antique gold dubata’s and a grand head piece, tiara to finish.
Asiana Wedding Magazine will be out in March and the entire show will be featured in the magazine including all catwalk designs.
The fashion show was 1 hour of pure entertainment, stunning dazzling clothes and jewellery and dancing models. But a common complaint that many of the audience members shared, why are the models predominately English? The fact is catwalk models need to be tall otherwise it doesn’t justify the clothes or make them come alive. Personally I thought it was a very Arab inspired look, milky skin and dark features and hair, nicely done.
Asiana Bridal Show Benefits:
As for exhibitors they truly did find value from being at the show, it’s the ‘Who’s Who’s’ of the Asian Bridal World and it keeps everyone in the loop. An opportunity to be face to face with brides and grooms to give their personal touch to future clients.
For visitors my advice to you all is to get there early, look around and collect all your information. Look through what you really want, check your budget, time of year of wedding, and book early, these people become busy and are booked quickly and throughout the year so if you leave it late, chances are you will not obtain their services.
A few mis-directions by staff, and at one point I did feel like I was in the film Jamanji, fighting through the jungle of Brideville however overall I can say if you haven’t experienced the Asiana Bridal Show I highly recommend it. A must see show for all brides and grooms, and even if your not married, I suggest you go and visit. As a singleton your desire to be married will change and you never know you may even bump into other your other half.
Asiana Bridal Show - Total = 9/10
Asiana Bridal Show was sponsored by Madhus and Sunrise Radio.
My Recommendations: -
www.asiana.tv – Asiana Magazine & Services
www.madhusonline.com – Wedding Caters
www.swanigulshan.com – Wedding Photographer
www.premierrougeltd.co.uk – Event management and Caters
www.kudosmusic.co.uk – Music & Entertainment
www.mongas.co.uk -Women & Menswear Designer
www.gulsstyle.co.uk – Womenswear Designer
www.kylescollection.com – Kyles Jewellery
www.kirankhan.co.uk – Jewellery and Women’s Designer
www.ektasolanki.com – Womenswear Designer
www.ziggistudio.com – Menswear Designer
www.tilda.com – Tilda Rice
www.asianweddingcakes.co.uk – Asian Wedding Cakes
www.cardwala.com – Designer Wedding Cards
January 29, 2011
Oh My Gosh, I can’t believe it’s the last weekend of January, where did this month vanish? I decided to cease the opportunity and take my relaxing Saturday to address my wardrobe before it starts getting out of control.
I admit I did attack the shops over the past few months, knowing that I have a few important dates coming up in my dairy including fashion events, weddings, art exhibitions and dinner parties I need to be organised before life takes over.
Do you have a fat wardrobe? That’s right, are extra clothes are putting weight on your wardrobe. I need you to start using those styling muscles this year. Inorder to do so, you must clear out last year’s clothes and make room for 2011’s Greatness.
The key to a successful wardrobe are the ‘2P’s’ = Preparation and Planning. Like all great things we need to begin by building a great foundation. So lets do this by creating a great wardrobe.
Are there clothes that have been sitting in your wardrobe for more than six months but not even worn once? If yes, you need to take a look at your wardrobe and ask yourself why you bought that particular item. It maybe that you found a bargain in the sales, you loved the colour or you thought you would drastically lose weight and fit miraculously fit into that size ‘0’ dress somehow? Well, then I’m afraid to tell you wasted your money. I’m here to help you start shopping smartly and sensibly. As much as I love retail therapy and I use it often, I can already tell you that the clothes you have purchased have been bought on the spur of the moment for not the right reason, occasion, colour or size. Find a better home for your clothes, give them to a friend you think will suit better or give them away to charity to people who really will appreciate your old clothes.
NOTE: Please don’t throw all your clothes away; you do need something to wear to work the next day. Try and build your wardrobe slowly, so keep some clothes in that wardrobe until you start making your styling changes.
Apply this styling detox technique to all your accessories too, I.e. shoes, bags, scarves, hates, gloves, jewellery etc. Please be careful about jewellery, skin allergies are very common, so you may want to very precautious before donating.
I’m an Ambassador for The James Caan Foundation, and I decided to donate my old clothes to help the Pakistani flood victims and their families. You can donate to any charity of your choice.
www.oxfam.org or www.thejcf.co.uk
Now you have made room for yourself and have a healthy wardrobe we can start each month with advice to get your style back in shape.
Stay super star stylish and I look forward to seeing you in February for more helpful advice.
January 28, 2011
It’s freezing in the city of London and I ventured out in the cold to meet with my Golden Girls for a delicious Thai dinner and catch up at Patara Restaurant.
I’ve known Satty and Anju for over 15 years and even though we don’t see much of each other, we all keep in touch with a compulsory Christmas card every year indicating we are all alive and well. Our friendship reminds me of The Golden Girls – Priceless and Precious (minus the OLD). I remember a few years ago I was in Lahore and over stayed my visit, Satty was so concerned that she came to find me Gloucestershire. Thankfully we now keep in touch with the magic of facebook.
We started our evening with a few drinks to warm up and then naturally we all took the opportunity to update each other with the happenings of our lives. Satty and Anju are both married with children who shared their funny stories about their cutie kids, hubbies and families. Whilst I updated them with my exciting and adventurous singleton shenanigans, from online dating and disaster dates (I need to write a book about all of them) to my successful mentoring programmes and of course my latest business ventures for styling and make-up this year.
Satty, Anju and Maryum (AKA – Max)
My dear Satty previously from the corporate world, an expert in Human Resources, I remember she was always flying around the globe; and my amazing Anju is highly experienced in finance worked in Architectural company in central London.
Satty and Anju told me how they are now both looking to go back to work. Infact Satty met us after attending an interview, (fingers crossed for her) and Anju told me how she wanted to be more enterprising and was looking at something creative however they both shared their concerns on how difficult it was going back to work.
Finding new jobs after having their babies in this climate where everyone is fighting for a job seems disheartening. What do you after changing nappies for such a long time and just socialising with other mothers. Its not just about working its about having an identity said Satty. When you have been working in the corporate world for over 12 years like Satty the brain gets bored when its not being used to its full capacity, a woman needs time out and a creative outlet.
What I found out when chatting with my friends is that every woman is different; some work, some don’t want and others have to no choice other than to work. I know my sister has two young ones and it’s a full-time job looking after children and families so I can understand it’s a balancing act , and if you don’t get it right it can make you go crazy.
David Cameron stressed in the elections the importance of families at the core of the party’s manifesto. Well, Mothers have become ‘mutil-tasking machines’ and unfortunately still not appreciated and valued by our society.
My friends tell me and I’m sure all mothers reading this will be able to relate to the guilty feeling each morning when leaving for work but The Golden Girls tell me its equally essential one needs to keep active to feel respected and alive.
So, my mission is to make my Golden Girls into Yummy Mummy’s with a touch of working attitude, giving them both professional and up to date looks which are easy to achieve, affordable and that will accelerate their confidence levels. Image is so important especially when your going for interviews. This image change isn’t just about a styling challenge for mothers it’s also a mind make-over. When you look good , you will automatically feel good and that change will happen instantly.
We eventually ended our night by eating delicious chocolate pudding and making plans for this magnificent year ahead.
Look out for March’s International Women’ Day feature when I will re-launch Satty and Anju for Greatness!!
http://www.patarathailand.com/london
January 16, 2011
Another year, another chapter, so lets make 2011 – “The Year of Greatness”.
Recovering from a broken heart and bad romances, redundancy or financial loss, whatever the calamity or commotion, let it go, delete it and move on; why waste time and energy in last year’s pain, regret or rejection. Lets look at making this year the greatest yet.
This is your year of ‘Styling Greatness’, so in order to do this I am going to assist you in creating a greater version of you. Throughout 2011 I will be help how to save money, look chic and sophisticated, increase your confidence and achieve your personal or professional goals through advising you how to project yourself in the correct way.
Allow me to advise and guide you with some my styling rules and secrets, wellbeing, fashion trends, entertainment and latest styling products that will improve harmony in different parts of your life for both men and women. In addition I will be asking experts (designers, make-up artists, hair stylists, fitness and diet professionals) in Style to sharing their knowledge and top tips with us.
I was sent this message a couple of weeks ago on my phone and wanted to share these inspirational words with you.
Life is a book of many chapters, some tell tragedy, others tell of triumph. Some are dull and ordinary. Others intense and exciting. The key to success in life is to never stop on a difficult page, to never quit on a tough chapter. Champions have the courage to keep turning the pages because they know that a better chapter always lies ahead, because all things are possible and the last chapter of a book is always the best.
My Greatness Rules are simple. Re-launch yourself, grow some gumption, create style, love all and make it happen. Most importantly spend time in the company of those you cherish and enjoy conversations full of love and laughter.
I started the year off with special friends at the Shezan Restaurant, Knightsbridge and enjoyed glorious Pakistani cuisine.
Simon, Daniel Sandler and Maryum Sharif
Use this 2011 wisely and See you soon!
Love & Blessings. xx
January 1, 2011
Happy New Year to you all! Hoping you started off the year in a super way with loved ones and looking stunning.
I was celebrating the New Year at the ROCKSTAR BALL presented by The Button Club at Ill Bottaccio Mansion Belgravia London.
Richard Austin Rees hosted the Button Clubs 2011 New Years Eve Celebrations with a ROCKSTAR Theme. Richard for one night only was to be ‘Adam Ant’. So for the party I helped Richard develop that look with my professional face paint and make-up skills. The famous white strip, skinny side burns and red crosses with smokey eyes to complete the look Adam Ant was re-born!
Richard Austin Rees AKA – Adam Ant
I attended the party as aka Diana Ross, I had the best time ever with my curly locks, I might have to take Diana Ross out more often. My wish at that time that I had Diana Ross’s voice to match.
Maryum Sharif AKA Diana Ross
Adam Ant (also Director of AMIKA) was truely a fabulous host, warm and full of life. The party was attended by 300 guests including a sprinkling of Celebrities VIPs and familiar faces who enjoyed a 2 hour champagne reception before partying throughout the night to live music and tunes to there DJS including The Button Clubs resident DJ Colin Rockstar Pereira, all taking place at Ill Bottaccio Mansions in Belgravia.
Stuart Phillips & Maryum Sharif
Model/Fashionisata BarBod and Maryum Sharif
The Rock Stars
Wishing you all a magnficent 2011 year ahead full of happines and health, love and laughter always.
Love & Blessing . xxx
