In the presence of its President and CEO, Jean-Christophe Babin, TAG Heuer launched their new boutique at the Palladium Mall at Lower Parel in Mumbai. The event also witnessed the unveiling of the new TAG Heuer Carrera 'Monaco Grand Prix' Limited Edition Chronograph by Shah Rukh Khan and Karun Chandhok.

Evocative of the brand's association with racing, the new timepiece is inspired by the 1964 Jack Heuer tribute to the Carrera Panamericana road race of the '50s. Issued in a limited edition of 3,000 pieces, each timepiece draws on the heritage and thrill of Formula 1 racing. In keeping with the theme of the watch, Khan and Chandhok took to racing car simulators, where they competed for the fastest time. 

Speaking at the occasion, Khan stated, "My nine year long association with TAG Heuer makes me feel like an integral part of the brand and I have witnessed its growth since it entered India, and 2012 marks yet another year of excellence in watchmaking for TAG Heuer."

Addressing the launch of the new boutique, Babin explained, "India has a special place in my heart and in the world of TAG Heuer. The launch of our boutique today at Palladium Mall in the presence of both our India brand ambassadors Shah Rukh Khan and Karun Chandhok gives an impetus to our commitment to the India market. "

The new boutique will offer watch enthusiasts the opportunity to enjoy the brand's range of timepieces and other accessories, including wallets, belts, cufflinks, eyewear and mobile phones.

Jewellery
We conceptualise every collection by thinking of the entire look, including accessories because that’s how you’d wear it. Though the swimwear is important, all the other touches make the look truly exceptional, which is why accessorising is essential. This season, our accessories included Swarovski, wooden elements and acrylic, because a woman on-the-go does not want to carry heavy-duty, expensive jewellery, but still wants to maintain that stylish edge. These accessories do just that–travel easy and look chic.

Growth as a brand
Our evolution has occurred more in terms of understanding the swim and resort lifestyle and the Indian psyche. Most people don’t realise it, but we live a resort lifestyle and it’s so apparent in the little things we do, like walking into a five star hotel in chappals. Ours is a resort climate and we choose to design clothing that is right for the climate and the consumer. We believe that our clothes accentuate form and build confidence and sophistication. Gone are the days when you used fashion to try and look like someone else. Now, it’s all about feeling confident in the body you’re blessed with and using fashion as a tool to make you look the best you can.

Sneak Peek
The inspiration for our next collection is going to be the horse. The entire theme is going to be very equestrian—it will dissect the anatomy of the horse within the Indian folklore—so it should be very interesting.

Trends this season
Clothes: High-waisted flared pants and coloured trousers
Colours: Papaya orange and ochre

Accessorising Tips

This summer, dress up your ensemble with the right accessories to complete your look. Accessories in acrylic and wood are great for summer as they travel well and look chic. Swarovski is a great option to bling out your evening wear.

-Sunglasses are a good option for functionality as well as style during the bright tropical summers.

-Flowy, billowing silhouettes like maxi dresses, tunics and loose shirts in light fabrics and bright colours are completely the way to go.

-You can try the old-school, flower child vibe with 70's inspired tie-dye or stick to basic whites.

-Linen, jersey and satin are fabrics that are in vogue this summer.

-African-inspired bags and accessories, like those from Malini Agarwalla’s Malaga collection are an interesting option.

-The colour palette is exceptionally wide, going from black and white to neons, and bright colours like shades of orange, pink, red, blue and yellow.

-Flip-flops will never go out of style, whether they are chappals, sandals or Indian kolhapuris.

(Image courtesy: LFW)

What are the differences you've noticed between Indian women and their western counterparts, especially when it comes to using beauty products?
1062 The different grooming habits of women around the world are so interesting. Indian women don’t use foundation as much as their western counterparts, which, in my opinion, is a missed opportunity as it can really help even out the skin tone and minimise shine on oily skin. An Indian woman focuses on the eyes when it comes to makeup, compared to Western women, where they tend to emphasise the lips. Open an Indian woman’s handbag and no doubt you would find an eyeliner and mascara, compared to a compact powder and a plethora of lip products in a Western woman’s handbag. Finally, Indian women really pay a lot of attention to grooming and treating their hair. I think women in the West could learn a thing or two from them.

Having interacted with Indian women during your trip to India, what according to you are the common makeup mistakes we make?
1062 Generally, Indian women pick foundation shades that are too light, which unfortunately make the skin look ashen or grey. Secondly, eyeliner is sometimes used without eye shadow, making it very stark. Finally, dark under-eye circles are a common concern for Indian women.

What are the solutions for these problems?
1062 The correct way to choose foundation is to find a shade that’s as close to the skin’s natural shade. Always test the shade of the foundation on the jaw line and not on the hand, because the shade of the hand differs from that of the facial skin. Use one or two eye shadows and mascara for a more blended and natural eye look. Use concealer and foundation to minimise the appearance of dark under-eye circles. Choose a concealer that is yellow-toned and one shade lighter than your foundation. Also, use a product that does not cake under the eyes as the skin around the eyes is very thin and fragile.

What skincare tips would you give to our readers?
1062 In order to maintain a healthy and glowing complexion, it’s essential to stick to a regular skincare regimen, which should include cleansing, toning, treating specific skin concerns, if any and finally, moisturising and applying a good sunscreen.

In terms of makeup, which colour is expected to rule the roost this season?
1062 Pink will be the colour of spring this year when it comes to makeup. For Indian women, the best way to incorporate this will be to play with lips and cheeks.

Any beauty tips you'd like to share?
1062 Follow a proper skincare regimen day and night. Drink plenty of water to keep yourself well hydrated and have a healthy diet– this will help to enhance your complexion and promote a natural glow. Finally, choose the right skincare products which are suitable for your skin type to avoid unnecessary skin irritations and sensitivity.

With an illustrious modelling career behind her, Dipannita Sharma is now looking to make her mark in Bollywood. Her eclectic movie roles have even won her several film award nominations. She talks to Time 'n Style Beauty about her beauty mantras while giving us a tip or two...

What according to you is the finest definition of beauty?
1063 I think it’s difficult to have one definition of the word ‘beauty’ as it embodies a vast range of qualities, which are not just physical, although in our day-to-day life the word is used in a very superficial manner. Beauty for me is something that is indescribable, something that takes my breath away, be it a stunning view, personality or just a few words.

What according to you is the finest definition of beauty?
1063 I think it’s difficult to have one definition of the word ‘beauty’ as it embodies a vast range of qualities, which are not just physical, although in our day-to-day life the word is used in a very superficial manner. Beauty for me is something that is indescribable, something that takes my breath away, be it a stunning view, personality or just a few words.

What is your relationship with beauty?
1063 My tryst with beauty started when I stepped into the world of modelling and since then it’s been a rather steady relationship with the business of beauty. But my basic association began very early in life when my mother taught me the basics of being a well-behaved, responsible and wellrounded human being.

What are your favourite beauty products?
1063 My favourites are lip balm, moisturiser and rose water.

What's inside your makeup bag?
1063 Due to my profession, I have two makeup pouches—one for travel and the other for work. My travel bag has very basic stuff like a lip balm, mascara, kohl pencil, primer and lip/cheek tint. The other one being my professional pouch is bigger and has eye shadow palettes, base/foundation, couple of mascaras, several lip colours, blushers and eye pencils.

The face you wear everyday...
1063 Lip balm and a lip and cheek tint occasionally.

Which beauty product do you swear by?
1063 Mascara.

What's your secret for always looking gorgeous?
1063 I take good care of my skin and try and maintain a healthy lifestyle as much as possible.

What's your own personal beauty tip?
1063 Use makeup to enhance your strong features instead of trying to hide under a mask.

What is the one thing you learnt during a shoot?
1063 I learnt this great tip from a makeup artist. If you have applied your nail paint badly and it’s clumped in a particular area, you can even it out by sprinkling some nail polish remover on your other fore finger and rubbing it gently over the spoilt nail paint. It looks as good as new!

What are your favourite beauty spots in Mumbai or elsewhere?
1063 I like Palladium and Infiniti malls in Mumbai, as they provide a wide variety of products. In New York, the Soho area is amazing for all kinds of beauty products and treatments from all over the world. I also love the luxury facial spas at Harrod's in London.

How do you like to pamper yourself?
1063 I absolutely love going for luxury body and hair spas.

What's your personal style statement?
1063 I would say its bohemian meets elegant.

What has been the greatest challenge in your life?
1063 Carving my own niche has been my greatest challenge till date.

This summer spend less time in front of the mirror and more time enjoying the sunshine by trying the no muss-no fuss looks by Olivier Echaudemaison, creative director at Guerlain.

Eyes:
Olivier says: If your eyes are showing telltale signs of fatigue, remember don't layer on the eye makeup!

Try this look: Bright eyes
First, dab on an illuminator on the inner corner of the lids. You can try the Issima Precious Light. Pat lightly until it sinks in. It makes the dark circles in the under-eye region disappear without "covering" the skin. It also helps minimise fine lines and dark circles. Next, to accentuate the dewy-eyed ingénue look, use a white eye pencil, which has a hint of pink, as it brings out the whites of your eyes for a candid wide-eyed look. You can try the Khôl me Ivory. After that, apply a coat of mascara on the upper lashes with the large brush, and the lower lashes with the small brush. Save your eyebrows for last. This step is crucial, because a flawless brow line is essential to achieve a wideeyed look. Redefine your brows using an eyebrow pencil, taking care to follow their natural curve. To blend it in, brush your brows upwards.

Lips:
Olivier says: There's nothing sexier or more in style than ultrared lips. But you have to do things right and follow a few basic rules. One characteristic of a saturated red lipstick is that it will always creep up tiny lines around the mouth. To make sure that your lipstick is set for hours, always apply a lip balm to prepare the lips and fix the colour.

Try this look: Vermillion pout
After applying a base, redraw the lip contours with a lip pencil coordinated with your lipstick shade, or with the bevelled side of your lipstick if you have nimble fingers. Always apply lipstick with a liberal hand. You'll need a lip brush to fill in the contours with lip colour
perfectly, but for touchups, just use the lipstick.

If your mouth is large: Apply foundation or concealer on the lip contours. Draw new lines inside the real ones, ending at corners of your mouth. The new lines should make your mouth seem less wide. Finally, use a lustrous lipstick, which is used to set off full lips. Place a touch of gloss right in the centre of each lip.

If your mouth is too small: Apply foundation to lip contours and lightly blend in. With a lip pencil, draw a soft line above the upper lip to draw a new lip contour and make your lips look fuller. Then apply a glossy lip product to create an effect of relief.

Images via hermes

Images via hermes

(Photo credit: ZEro G)

The journey makes for one of the most memorable parts of experiencing luxury travel. And with the trend of space travel gaining momentum, we can only imagine what an experience such a trip will be. Although space tourism is famous for both business and recreational activities, the latter is soaring to newer heights. Opportunities to enter spatial territories and feel like a newborn astronaut are made available through the various programmes listed by the Russian Space Agency. Those who can’t overcome the fear of exiting our planet’s boundaries can avail the experience of floating in a craft customised to create a weightless environment, without actually having to travel all the way.

If you’re tempted to experience the thrill of travelling in space, then it’s time you learned about Space Adventures. A premier space exploration company, this privately-run organisation is the onlyone that gives you the prospect of travelling in a private spaceflight. They have already sent clients to space and successfully so. As fascinating and absorbing as the experience sounds to the ears, it surely is one exclusive to the elite. A trip to space will cost you somewhere around USD 1,10,000, if you take a sub-orbital spaceflight. Here are the four different ‘Space Adventures’ you could opt for when planning a trip to space.

(Read more in the May-June 2012 issue of Time 'n Style. On Stands Now!)

Image courtesy: Stock Xchng

People who love to cook and who love to eat often ponder about what’s served on the tables across the world. Curiosity, after all, is an innate human trait that can’t be dismissed—especially when connected to something as glorious as food. Here we track some ingredients that contribute to create some of the best tasting local delicacies across the world.

Japan: Order a bowl of noodles and you will be given a bill of ¥10,000! While noodles can make the most inexpensive meal in Japan, select hotels and restaurants serve them as a delicacy. Fujimaki Gekijo is one such restaurant located near Nakameguro Station. If you’re looking to grab a meal here, a three-day-advance booking awaits you. What you ideally want at this restaurant is a bowl of ramen noodles. The ‘Emperor Ramen’ costs a royal ¥10,000. If you’re wondering what this expensive dish contains, let us fill you in: all kinds of meat that one can think of, other than noodles of course. It is a mix of prawns, blue crab, clams, shrimps, chicken, ham, beef, pork and the like. Now isn’t that a whole lot of meat? The dish looks more like soup, but surely makes for one of the most expensive Japanese delicacies.

Read more in the May-June 2012 issue of Time 'n Style. On Stands Now!

(Photos Credit: Orient-Express Hotels Tarins & Cruises)

Chances are you gave them a skip. You probably booked a flight months ago or have a GPS ready for the road trip. Trains just don’t feature on our radars any more. The feeling of lounging on a luxurious couch watching the countryside breeze by, all things at your beck and call, and no hurry to reach your destination is unparalleled. And it’s certainly not possible on a plane, much less a car. It sounds pedestrian and done, but taking a train can change your life. It adds perspective to your travel, it fuels conversation, the humming of the axles lulls you into several catnaps, and when you have arrived, you know it’s the best way to arrive. Taking a train is the real essence of travelling. Everyone who is serious about travel loves getting on a train, and it’s the most romantic way of travelling, even when alone. We picked a few luxury trains that deliver top-class experience and give your travels just the right amount of glamour.

The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express

Let’s start with the granddaddy of all luxury trains. The Orient Express chugged off from Paris to Istanbul in 1883 and began the trend of luxury train travel. The train itself is an Art Deco icon and has been immortalised in print by Agatha Christie’s fabled Murder on the Orient Express. The amenities in the first train’s coaches were unheard of at the time and its tradition of refined service, gourmet dining, and superb French wine has continued for over a century, with a hiatus between 1977 and 1982, when the coaches were refurbished and the train became a private service.

Dining onboard the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is a refined tradition. All dishes are freshly prepared on the train by skilled French chefs, with the finest supplies taken onboard during the train's journey and served in one of the three uniquely styled restaurant cars: Cote d’Azur, Etoile du Nord or L'Oriental.

From among the several routes offered by this train service, we recommend the classic Orient Express experience, beginning at Paris and taking you through the heart of Europe to Hungary and Romania, and finally to Turkey in six days. Along the way, you can experience luxury outside the train as well, with overnight stays in the most opulent hotels in old-world Europe. This route is operational only once a year and departs on August 31 in 2012. At GBP 5,380, it surely is not for everyone; but for a journey as luxurious as this, the price is just a number.

To track the luxury train routes get a copy of Time 'n Style. On stands now!

(Photos Courtesy: Ampas, Dior, Media 8 Entertainment, Paramount Pictures, Twentieth Century Fox, Universal Pictures, Warner Bros)

I see the silhouette of a young woman walking towards me, sunlight filtering through the window behind her. As she navigates the corridor of the Ritz-Carlton Hotel, men turn to look at her and, at that moment, the lyrics of a song come rushing to my mind: Tall and tan and young and lovely, the girl from Ipanema goes walking; And when she passes, each one she passes goes: ah! Only this girl is not from Ipanema, she’s from South Africa and her name is Charlize Theron. I ask her what she’s wearing, only to find out that she’s unaware of the label. It’s evident that this accomplished actress cares little about outward trimmings; she flaunts subtle makeup and is all about being a natural woman. Even her movies reflect that quality.

In Young Adult, you're sans makeup, and in one scene you've applied your own makeup. What are your thoughts on cosmetics?

Makeup is seductive; it’s used to entrap men, that’s something women will not admit, but everyone does that and that’s just God’s honest truth. I’ll set it straight for all the guys out there, if you’re wondering if there are women out there who are gorgeous all day long, it’s just not true.

Are you telling me that you're not gorgeous all the time?

I’m sorry to tell you, my friend, [but] if you’d seen me a few hours ago, you would have run!

Where were you a couple of hours ago?

I was in my pyjamas, stuffing my face with pancakes!

You are the face of Dior, for the J'Adore perfume and Huit line of watches; what do you personally look for in a perfume and what does time mean to you?

I’m not making this up because I represent their perfume, but I love J’Adore. And it’s nice that you don’t have to lie about what you represent! I also appreciate the fact that not all women have the luxury or the good fortune to wear a couture gown, but they can experience something of the luxury world through a perfume. So for me, I don’t like to wear perfume every single day. I use it on special occasions and treat it like it’s something special, and as for time, I think that it is the greatest luxury in life. It definitely is a luxury in my life.

(Read more in the May-June 2012 issue of Time 'n Style. On Stands Now!)

Bearing the official UEFA logo on the sapphire crystal casebacks, one of the watches is made from King Gold and ceramic and features the blue of the Ukrainian flag, while the other is crafted from titanium and ceramic and possesses the red of the Polish flag. Measuring 48 mm in diameter, the ‘King Power’ case pays a tribute to the world of football by way of a 45-minute counter at 9 o'clock, indicating half-time in a football match. Created exclusively for this event, the 716.OM.1129.RX.EUR12 (Ukraine) and the 716.OM.1129.RX.EUR12 (Poland) are available in a limited edition of 250 and 500 numbered pieces, respectively.

Since its association with football in 2006, Hublot has nurtured its sporting ties and continues to serve as Official Timekeeper and Official Watch of the FIFA™ World Cup, and Official Timekeeper for Manchester United, Bayern Munich and Ajax Amsterdam.

Taking inspiration from it’s haute couture heritage, the House of Dior recently presented the Dior VIII 33 mm Quartz in white ceramic. The watch pays tribute to the rich legacy of the brand. It’s said that the number 8 was Monsieur Dior’s lucky number, so much so, that even the first flagship store address for Jewelry and Horlogerie featured the number – 8 place Vendôme.

White canvas has been a strong element in Dior’s haute couture dresses in 2012. Taking the idea forward, the new timepiece collection features 12 white ceramic and steel watches in 28, 33, and 38mm with quartz or automatic movements. The bezels feature white ceramic or diamonds. Mr. Dior always believed that “White is pure and simple and matches with everything.” We couldn’t agree more and think that the chic watches are the perfect accessory for summer.