Lucknow Chikankari in Bikaner: Pastel Feels

Hey all

Last weekend I had attended my friend's wedding in Bikaner, India and it was a blast. The whole MBA gang was there and we just couldn't keep calm.

- It was my first close friend's wedding.

- It was my first destination wedding that I had attended.

- It was my first time in Bikaner and,

- It was my first Marwari wedding.

So many firsts so I had to do extensive shopping right from design selection, fabric sourcing, tailoring and hairstyle & jewellery for each occasion.  You can imagine the number of weeks(ends) that I must have spent doing it.

Did I mention that it was my first dance in a wedding? Oh yes! So many videos and pictures coming soon. This outfit I wore on Day 3 for the Mehendi/Haath Kaam function of the groom (I was from groom's side).

This is a special post as this Lucknow Chikankari white suit was gifted to me by Mr. A himself, when he had gone to Lucknow. Funny story - he almost missed his flight (by 5 minutes) because he was buying this exact ethnic suit for me. Sowwieee! :P

I have never worn a full dupatta except for this wedding here. I never knew white would suit me as much as it did in this Indian attire. They say that best things happen unplanned but the author/poet didn't meet me. I had this exact same location and poses and voilla; look at it. Match made in heaven!

At first I was apprehensive of this traditional suit as Lucknow Chikankari is a very old (3rd century!) embroidery worn by royals and I am anything but traditional.

But, Mr. A convinced me and with a bit of help from mom, I gave it a youthful look. See the slit at the bottom (inverted V) that balances the V-neck. For the sleeves, instead of the traditional half-sleeves, I went for 3/4th length. It makes your appear look longer and slimmer.

I kept the look simple as the print and design deserved to stand out. Borrowed mom's traditional sandals and had put on some kajal and kiehl's simply rose butterstick on lips.

You guys tell me now, do you own a Lucknow Chikankari suit? I would love to see it. DM your pictures on Instagram - fictitiousfashionblog and I will share the best ones in my stories.
Also, have you been to Bikaner? Planning to visit it? If you are, definitely go after October and before April. 

Things to do in Bikaner, places to visit and what to eat - all coming up in subsequent posts.

Keep smiling

xoxo

Akanksha

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Getting a Tattoo: Tips and more

Strong wind blows into her hair, she relentlessly swings her skirt

away it flows, uncaring, unscathed and untouched. ~ AC

Tout arrive pour une raison

No, I'm not taking any lessons in French (I wish!) Just wanted to share this incredible piece of news with you guys. I've got inked! Yayy me! It was a distant dream for me, 6-7 years ago and here it rests on my side wrist like it always belonged there and no place else.

I wanted the tattoo to be personal and at the same time, something of my creation. It should mean something to me and at the same time, something that could be related and gather appreciation from the onlookers. Take a look

It means 'Everything happens for a Reason'

I truly and deeply believe in these words. These are more than words to me, they are experiences crafted together to form a meaning to my life. Ever since I've grown up (become a young adult), I've had strong feelings for whatever happens, happens for a reason. No matter how hard you work or not, no matter how much you put efforts into something; there are always some forces, or so I believe; which constantly work their way to interlink events which make sense. 

When I found what I want the tattoo to be, I chose the place where I want it to be. I had read somewhere that you should get inked at your best body part. I had two options- collar bone area and wrist. I chose the latter for my first tattoo.

But it couldn't just be words: I had to choose a meaningful design as well! After a lot of research, I ran into this infinity loop and saw a design wherein somebody had written the word- Always in between the strings. Further, I liked the idea of birds which could very well be related to life and independence.

People close to me know how much I love French! So the words obviously had to be in french. A few seconds later, I knew what I wanted to get tattooed.

For all those who dread the needles or who want to get it done anyway, I'd say GO AHEAD! My experience was particularly good.

How does it feel?

The answer to this question- nobody can explain it online, in words, in text, print.....

Nevertheless, I would try my best.

Firstly, it's better than getting an injection. Injections go deep into your bloodstream/veins. Tattoo needles are just under your skin!

Imagine two things you easily get irritated with. Like nails scratching against wall or mud stuck up in between your nails and you're trying to get it out. It could be anything. The reason why I'm keeping the feeling w.r.t. nails is so that you better associate it with touch. Now imagine those two things rubbing against each other (in this case, needle against your skin).

It's just this feeling and nothing else. You will feel as if your pet is scratching you continuously on one spot. My tattoo took me less than 30 minutes!! There was music, inspiring pictures of tattoos around and a good atmosphere around.

Just make sure:

- You have a good night's sleep the day before

- Keep yourself hydrated at all times

- If you're uncomfortable in one position then better tell the tattoo artist. It is very important that you keep moving your hand in between, for better blood circulation.

- Distract yourself if you can't bear the pain (if there's any!): Listen to some music or bring a friend along.

All in all, put a happy face and march your foot to the tattoo parlor. Trust me, it's worth it :)

WEARING:

White shirt: Lovelywholesale, Skirt: Milanoo

If you have any questions then feel free to contact me at fictitious.fashion@gmail.com

xoxo

Akanksha

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