The Style council

Coconut Popsicles

2016-06-17T02:36:00.001-07:00

I've been craving popsicles off late and putting away too many shoots because of the heat. Is it only me or is everyone else as bummed out as me knowing that the coming months are only going to get hotter?

I'm a winter baby and cannot stand summer. I prefer layering over shorts and sun dresses any day!

On another note, in today's look I paired a sheer bohemian dobby blouse over well fitted high waisted pants and addeed in pops of red because, why not? Loos waves seemed perfect for the look. A boho updo wouls work well too but I had 2 back to back shoots so had to go for something simple. I know I've been posting less often but you guys can keep up with my life on instagram @askthestylecouncil I promise, I'm very active on there !

Blouse, Sandals: Mango, Jeans: Calzedonia, Bag: DKNY

Frowning Glory

2016-05-29T09:54:00.002-07:00

Shooting outdoors is getting unbearable for me, which is why you'll notice that I'm frowning in these photos. I cannot even begin to think what the coming months are going to be like. That being said, I'm trying to squeeze in as many outfit posts as I can for you guys. Of course instagram still has my #OOTD's and so does snapchat! So you guys will excuse me if there are fewer posts on here , right? No? Ok.
Moving on , I went for a classic combo here, pairing red, black and white. The light wash jeans add as a nice accent color and this particular pair, hugs me in all the right places. I threw on a medium red tote that sat back beautifully with my sandals . To finish off the look, I left my hair loose and messy and added a thin chocker to give the look a little edginess!

If you aren't following me on Instagram @askthestylecouncil and Snapchat @ashwathysk yet, make sure you do and show me some love!

Jeans : Mango, Top: Zara, Shoes: Schutz, Bag: Coach

Ahoy!

2016-05-02T11:21:00.000-07:00

My love for nautical looks is no secret and my quick getaway at Rotana was a great excuse to bring out all my favorite pieces to sport around the resort.

This sailor top from Camaieu has been my favorite piece for a while now and I did get them in all the colors. Not only is the boat neckline flattering, its also a great piece for days when you’re having a style block. Paired with jeans, skirts or leggings, this essential is going to be a wardrobe savior and I urge you to get them in your life now.

Moving on, I paired the tee with high waisted shorts and used a scarf as a head band and carried my favorite tote to finish off the look! We shot this look before breakfast at Choices at The Art Rotana Baharin where we pigged out on a delicious spread!

Pristine

2016-04-25T10:29:00.000-07:00

If you guys have been following me on snapchat , you know that spent my weekend at Art Rotana Bahrain. I've covered almost everything on snapchat and Instagram but I will be putting up some info for you guys on here as well, early next week!
Moving on, These images were clicked right before brunch at Rosso, and it was only fitting that I wear white to an Italian brunch! I put half my hair up and added crochet espadrilles to match my look.
On another note, the weather is getting unbearable so we had to switch indoors to shoot which is why dual locations. Its so hard to be putting up this post while I still cant get over the amazing time I had with my best friend/ Photographer last weekend. So until I get over that and can manage typing out my experience at Rotana, enjoy this post .

Dress: H&M , Shoes: River Island, Bag : Parfois

Bronze Goddess

2016-04-04T09:16:00.003-07:00

It’s mid week and as my schedule gets busier, my stress levels are up the roof and it’s taking a toll on my hair! Sometimes I have to remind myself to breathe and just relax. And when I’m having a bad hair day, I just go back and look at these amazing photographs clicked by Pritham ( @themetalfarmer ) during his time in Bahrain and feel good about myself. Obviously, I had my entire Gloss team work on my hair to look this good.

On another note, this dress is 4 years old, and I’ve only worn it once before. I decided to pull it out for the shoot and pair it with my rose gold pumps. I love the combination of brown and orange so I decided to keep my lips a plummy brown and bronze the F out of the rest of my skin!

I’ve got one more look coming up so make sure you keep your eyes peeled.

Hope you’ve been having a great week so far.

Photography: Pritham Denzil Dsouza

Hair: Gloss Salon and Spa

Location: Marriott Executive Apartments Juffair

Dress: River Island
Shoes: Dune

Blue Jewel

2016-04-01T04:05:00.002-07:00

As promised, here's another look shot by Pritham of @themetalfarmer for my blog. We shot all 4 looks the same day and it was so hard to pick a few from all the pictures he clicked! I'm even going to put up some BTS shots later!
So in this look, I wore a dress my sister left behind (heheheheh) . I love the beautiful jewel tone of this dress and how beautifully it sits back with my two tone pumps. I painted my lips a deep berry color as a contrast to the blue and Stephan at Gloss Salon helped complete my look with an effortless wavy do!
I'm not going to write much details about this look because the photographs pretty much do the job for me , right?
You can check out Pritham's work on Instagram @themetalfarmer

Dress: Forever21. Shoes: Dune
Hair : Gloss Salon and Spa
Photography: Pritham Denzil Dsouza

Lavender

2016-03-27T08:10:00.002-07:00

Last week I had an incredible day shooting with Pritham of @themetalfarmer photography. He covers everything from fashion shoots to events and architectural stills.

I am so happy to reveal some images from the first look we shot, in collaboration with Gloss Bahrain and Marriott.

In this look, Stephan, the new stylist at Gloss kept my hair really straight and glossy to compliment the mauve makeup look and also keep more focus on this slit body con midi dress. I absolutely love midi dresses at the moment, especially figure hugging ones. The color is light and pretty and my holographic heels were a perfect match for this ensemble!

Make sure you check out @themetalfarmer on instagram , and I cannot wait to show you guys the rest of the looks!

Until then, follow me on instagram @askthestylecouncil and snapchat @ashwathysk !

Hair by: Gloss Salon and Spa

Location Courtesy: Marriott Executive Apartments, Juffair

Photography: Pritham Denzil Dsouza

Dress: Missguided, Shoes: Miss KG

Honeycomb

2016-03-20T11:12:00.000-07:00

Are you all dreading the heat that’s taking over as much as I am? I’m a winter baby so the sun is a complete NO-NO for me. No, the sunshine does not make me cheery, it actually makes me go into hiding. I love cloudy/ gloomy weather and honestly I feel much more energetic just when it’s about to rain.

Moving on, in today’s look, I paired this ribbed midi body con dress with a burgundy bag and rose gold heels. You would have seen on my snapchat that I’ve been loving lace-up flats and sneakers with dresses off late and while I would also pair this little number with a pair of white sneakers, I thought I’d show you guys how to “casually” dress it up!

Try this look out with a denim vest and a messy bun or a pony tail with sneakers and it’s still going to look super hot.

I’m currently loving midi body con dresses so don’t be surprised if you see an over-kill on my feed, heheh.

Dress, Bag :Mango. Shoes :Dune, Necklace: River Island, Watch : Jlo

Sweet as Wine

2016-03-05T01:33:00.000-08:00

I’m finally back to my blogging routine and as much as Id like to blog everyday for you guys, its impossible for me, having a full time jobL . I’m definitely going to try and make it 2- 3 looks a week. And if you guys are following me on Snapchat and Instagram, you’re getting much more of my shenanigans there, so yay!

Moving on, I’m loving this mock wrap skirt as it can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. I’ve previously paired it with a lace blouse to dinner and here I’ve paired it with a jersey tee to give off a more relaxed vibe. While I would even pair this with a pair of platform sneakers, I’ve been dying to feature these holographic shoes on the blog and decided to wear them instead. It sits back beautifully with my grey handbag, that adds a nice contrast to the burgundy skirt.

On another note, Hope you guys are all doing well! I know a lot of you have been asking about wedding details. I may not answer on a public forum, but feel free to PM me or mail me on ashwathysk03@gmail.com and Id be happy to answer them all!

Top: Camaieu, Skirt & Bag: River Island, Shoes: Miss KG, Sunglasses: Prada

Engagement Diaries

2016-01-30T04:29:00.000-08:00

Hey guys! Firsty, so sorry for the lack o0f posts and secondly, so sorry for the dealy in posting details about my engagement. So many of you have been requesting this since December and I finally had the time to sit down and blog. As busy as my days are getting, I am trying to find the time to blog. so until I get back to the usual grind, do follow my Insta account @askthestylecouncil and Snapchat @ ashwathysk for mini posts and reviews.
Moving on, lets get straight to the details of my engagement look. I opted to go for a bright colour, and this Pink- Red ombre lehenga with mirror work and huge buttis was the perfect one. I draped the dupatta in a very unusual style, with the corner as the starting point on my shoulder that was draped around the back and brought to the front. The pleats were secured with pins and held to my waist with a delicate Gold belt.My accessories were all from Sia, except the bangles, which were handpicked from India.
My hair, ofcouse was the magic of my favourite Nabil Ghanem at Gloss Salon and my makeup was by Najla- Al- Bastaki.
If you guys have any more questions, feel free to leave me comments or mail me and I'll get back to you!
xx

Lehenga- Aanchal Bridals, Banagalore, Jewellery- Sia, Malabar Gold, Devji, Hair- Nabil Ghanem, Gloss Salon, Makeup-Najla Al Bastaki

SPARK

2015-12-21T10:20:00.001-08:00

My engagement is 5 days away and I have 2 nasty zits on my face! Cannot believe this is how I decided to start this post, But it has been annoying me so much and all I want to do is rant.

Moving on, for this look, I paired my super floaty peasant blouse over washed denims and threw on my cape to add a bit of statement. Burgundy has and will always be my favorite fall color so it was but obvious that I would match mustard and the deep red. I love how beautifully my new lipstick ( L'oreal matte- Mon Jules) matches the bag and how well it contrasts against the yellow.

What has been your favorite fall color? And please give me a quick fix to make these zits disappear!

Bag and Shoes: Mango

White Christmas

2015-12-17T02:18:00.002-08:00

Can you believe 2015 is coming to an end? I for one cant and with my engagement just 10 days away, I'm freaking out about every single thing. Honestly, If this is the case now, I don't know what the wedding preps will be like.

Moving on, today's look is my festive party look for the season. With almost everyone going for dramatic looks and heaps of sparkle, white will definitely stand out. what's more Christmas-y than the color white? Channel your inner snow queen and opt for a frosty white and rose gold this holiday season and pair it with a cranberry lip, and you're sure to turn heads.

In this look, I paired a mini LWD with a crisp white coat and added champagne accents instead of brighter colours, that can come off as quirky, which is not what we're going for here.

Finishing off with a cranberry lip and a side twisted do , we're ready for champagne fizzies and some holiday cheer!

Coat: Mango

Little Red Riding

2015-11-14T01:37:00.001-08:00

Hello beautiful people! I’m finally getting around to blog shoots in between meetings with caterers and event planners and It feels great to be putting up a post after so long!

With the weather getting chilly in Bahrain, It’s the best time to layer with oversized lightweight knits and this pressed felt sleeveless coat from Quiz* is perfect . It comes in a beige shade too and I absolutely love how you can just throw them over anything!

For this look I paired the perfect black high waisted pencil skirt with a silk blouse tucked in- both by Quiz, and threw on the bright red coat to match my lips. Y’all know I love a white, red and black combination. Speaking of love, this pencil skirt is something I’ve fallen in love with. Why? Because unlike other skirts that I have from Zara, the fit of this is so perfect it stretches to fit all your curves, so you can wear it high waisted or low, and it just takes the natural shape of your curves!

If you’re a working woman and love wearing skirts to work, please make this skirt a part of your wardrobe immediately. You can thank me later.

*Quiz is located at Bahrain City Centre and Centre Mall in Bahrain.

Blouse, Skirt and Coat- Quiz, Shoes- Dune, Bag - DKNY

Wine Notes

2015-10-27T10:26:00.003-07:00

Hey guys, sorry for the in-consistent blog posts, I try to be as active as I can on snap chat and instagram, so here’s hoping those weigh things out a bit. I’ve finally finalized the venue, photographer and makeup artist for my engagement in December and I can’t wait to reveal the names. But until my engagement series start, let’s talk about today’s look.

I paired my burgundy skirt with a sheer tank top and used a hair tie to create a neat knot at the front, instead of tucking in the blouse. I love how instantly casual this outfit becomes with one small step. I threw on my short pea coat and added some gold sling-backs to balance the casual-ness of the outfit, so overall; the look I was going for was casual but lady-like.

On another note, now that my hair is growing out fast, I’m running out of ideas on how to style them; this ‘half up half down ‘ do has been my “go-to” style for the past couple of weeks. It’s quick, easy and when done right, doesn’t make you look frumpy.

Waterfalls

2015-10-18T08:18:00.001-07:00

Sorry guys! This post has been long overdue and I've honestly been away for so long because I've been so busy planning my engagement. Seriously guys, 7 days a week is not enough. I feel time is going by super fast and I barely get the time to blog, which is why I try and be super active on instagram and Snapchat!
Moving on, this look was shot in Kerala, when I visited Athirapilli and Vazchal Falls. It was beautiful and inhabited by monkeys that follow you everywhere until you give them food!
On a different note,I cannot wait to start my engagement series. I would really love to share my experience planning a huge event and my recommendations and such. I should be stating the series by the first week of November so make sure you're all following me on Snapchat as well to get some BTS action. (@ashwathysk)

Mellow Yellow

2015-10-08T10:49:00.001-07:00

I’ve always loved fringes-be it on bags, shoes or on clothing. While I am very picky about the fall of each strand, I find myself clearly defining bad fringe and good fringe. It might not make any sense, but the suede used should always be good quality in order for the style to look good. Cheap quality leather and PU used to duplicate similar styles end up looking tacky and unfinished.

I chanced upon this fringed beauty at Zara and although it’s not very practical ( I cannot fit more than 5 items in there), it’ quite a statement and I love how it sits back with simple clothing, and still come across as chic. In this look , I paired a pale yellow printed chiffon top with a pair of my favorite jeans and salmon colored heels to add a nice pop of color.

On another note, December is approaching fast and I’ve got some really exciting news that I cannot wait to share with you guys! Any guesses on what it could be?

Going forwards, all outfit details will be up on my Instagram feed, so make sure you follow me on @askthestylecouncil .

Cat Print

2015-10-06T11:09:00.002-07:00

I can’t believe it’s almost the end of 2015. Just 2 more months to go until 2016 and somehow, time seems to be going even faster for me. Post my vacation I’ve been so caught up with a lot of unfinished business that I barely get time for outfit posts. That and the scorching heat. I’ve taken a break from my You tube channel and will resume in January 2016 , but in the mean time, you can catch my mini reviews on my snapchat feed, @ashwathysk.

Moving on to today’s look, I felt a little experimental with this tulle and lace overlay miniskirt. While I would usually pair it with something more glamorous, I decided to quirk it up by throwing on some conversation prints and sneakers. Sticking to the colorless theme, I opted for a neutral colored cross body bag , A burnt brick lipstick and a sporty ponytail to complete this look.

Clean Cuts

2015-10-02T10:56:00.003-07:00

I've forever been a fan of tailored shirts and clean silhouettes. When it comes to neat and crisp tailored pieces, I love to keep my look as simple as possible. This sleeveless white shirt is a key piece of my summer wardrobe and I absolutely love the fit. Its not too tight nor too loose.And because it's one of my favorite, It was but obvious that I had to pair it with something special- enter , this skirt my sister presented to me recently. I love pairing collared shirts with pleated skirts that sit at the waist and this look has easily become one of my favorites looks. In this look, I added minimal accessories to really let the simplicity be the hero. A pop of dusty peach added a nice contrast to the soft blue tones and a half up-do completed my look!
If you're too shy to bear skin, try a full sleeved fitted shirt rolled up to the elbows and a midi A-line skirt, It'll look just as amazing.
On another note, my co- model is Oreo, a friend's terrier . He was amazing throughout the shoot and you'll definitely be seeing more of us together.

Subtle Glam

2015-09-28T03:03:00.001-07:00

Now that my outfit posts are back to normal, there are so many outfit ideas that I just couldn’t wait to share with you guys! Because I’ve been loving olive tones for a while, this deep forest green chiffon top had been collecting dust in my outfit because I didn’t know what to wear underneath it. A camisole would have ruined the back and in no way am I built to go Bra-less. The idea of wearing a normal, matching bra did cross my mind, but I decided to wait until I found something a little more glam. That’s when I chanced upon this gorgeous bedazzled back strap bra at Hunkemoller that was just made for backless tops. With the clasp closing at the sides, this baby looks like an attachment to any backless outfit and I’m glad I have it in my life!

For this look, I paired black and taupe accents to sit in beautifully with the olive and added a pair of OTT earrings as a neck piece would break the attention of the back detail. If it’s a night look, I would swap the taupe with glittery gold and make the shoes strappy instead

Delayed

2015-09-22T10:50:00.001-07:00

Here are a few images from my trip to Fort Kocki, Kerala. We only got few pictures as I preferred exploring the place through my eyes and not a camera, but when I did get the chance, I managed to get a few shots taken around.
With the weather so humid, It was hard to be in jeans and although I'm smiling in the pictures, I'm dying to get out of my clothes.
Moving on, My posts have been very un-scheduled off late because I've been extremely busy with work and other stuff. So for that and being m.i.a on instagram, I truly apologies! I', hoping to get back on my blogging routine by the weekend , so bear with me until then please! I do, however put up pics and mini videos on snapchat so come on over and add me on @ashwathysk !

Vacation-ing

2015-09-14T09:20:00.001-07:00

Let me start of this post by apologizing for not posting sooner, as promised- It was only because my network was terrible over the last few weeks!
As most of you know, I spent the last three weeks in Kerala, India at my family house and was later joined by my BFF/ Photographer Suaad. Apart from sight seeing , watching GOT and shopping for the perfect outfit for a huge milestone in my life, I did manage to get a few blog photos taken.While I was there, I gave most of my usual styles a break and re-discovered my college days ,sticking to loose cotton kurtis and leggings. I even ditched make up on most days, and yes, this includes my statement winged eyeliner. I kept my style rather minimal throughout and only really accessorized with a pair a sunglasses or dainty gold chains and a watch.
Below are a few places to check out, if you ever visit Kerala :

Athirapilli & Vazachal Falls- Located in the middle of dense forests, these falls are famous shoot locations and have been taken over by monkeys that will stop you and signal you to give them food.
Fort Kochi- A ferry ride away from Cochin, discover a gem of a village that's swarming with tourists and have csome amazing places to dine- Think Kashi's Art Cafe.
Alleppy- Backwaters, House boats and more greenery than the usual, this is the place to visit for the real feel of Kerala.
Lulu Mall- Now it may not sound like where're you'd want to go, buut its completely different from the Lulu we have here. Apart from the hypermarket, the mall has a lot of designer brands, food courts and local design labels. Claimed to be one of the biggest malls in India, Lulu is definitely worth a visit.
Goodwill's- Situated in Ernakulam, this is every accessory hoarders dream. From traditional semi precious jewelry to imitation and modern pieces, Goodwill is a place I visit every single time I'm in Kerala.
Seematti and Jayalakshmi Silks- Both competing to be the biggest bridal destinations in Cochin, these two places offer amazing sarees, something a woman must own after a trip to India!

Crossing the Line

2015-08-10T13:00:00.000-07:00

Sale time is my favorite end to every season. Be it the Mid Season sale or End of Season Sale, it’s always nice to find a few pieces at a cheaper price. I obviously am a very picky shopper. I don’t buy occasion / smart dresses during sale but I do stock up on basics like plain tees, leggings denims and casual dresses. I also love stocking up on other basics like hair ties, clips, bobby pins and such. Don’t be afraid of buying basics in every color- they’ll all come in handy very often. I personally pick up basic tees and tanks in every color possible and if my favorite pair of continuity leggings are marked 30% down, I buy 2 to 3 pairs.

Moving on, as my hemlines get shorter in summer here, I’m soon going to change up my style a little along with my surroundings. Yep, I’m travelling to my homeland this Thursday and I can’t wait to take you all on a virtual tour with me as I roam the streets, discover new places and of course BTS scenes from all my shoots. I’m also going on a huge shopping spree so you can stay connected with me via Instagram to feed back your thoughts .

Until the next post, which will go live from Kerala, much love.

Capers

2015-08-09T00:59:00.004-07:00

I have a thing for black and denim. On days when I'm not feeling color, I go back to this trusty combination.White works well too, but I couldn't resist this black cape top. Paired with a tan hand bag and gold strappy summer wedges, this look is one of my "go to's". It's simple,easy to recreate and a fool-proof look.
On another note, I'm flying out this Thursday to Kerala and will take you though my trip via vlogs and all my social media platforms! The month of August has been a new start for me and I'm super excited. Cannot wait to share BTS of what i'm upto in India with you guys , so make sure you follow me on Snapchat as well (ashwathysk)

Top: BFH, Jeans & Bag: Mango, Shoes : River Island

High Tea at Noor Lounge

2015-08-04T19:31:00.001-07:00

Bahrain being such a small place, it’s amazing when you find a place that’s been left untouched and un-hyped- almost like a hidden jewel that you’ve just discovered.

Last week I had the chance to visit Noor Lounge at The Intercontinental Regency with my crew and it was a great experience, especially since you don’t really run into many people there and because it’s a great escape from the usual hangout spots- think Adliya, Seef etc.

With beautiful mirrored pillars around the lobby and a bespoke white piano in the center of the lounge, enjoy the ambiance and relax over a pot of your favorite tea or refreshing drinks accompanied by mini treats and pastries. We ordered cold coffee post our shoot on the rooftop and enjoyed the homely feel, sinking into the comfy couches and catching up on team talk.

If you’ve been keeping track of us, you’d already know that we love discovering new places to eat and love recommending them on the blog. Know that feeling you get when you’ve been to a place you love too much that you’ve begun to hate it? We don’t want that now, do we? So if it’s some quiet time for catching up with a bunch of close friends you’re looking for (and not really hungry but wouldn’t mind munching ), check out Noor lounge and call in for the High Tea where a tower* full of sandwiches, scones and macaroons come with a pot of tea. We’ve got some more great places at The Intercontinental coming up for you guys, so stay tuned and follow us live on Snapchat (ashwathysk) for Behind the Scenes feed.

*One tower good for 2 people.

Vintage Romance

2015-08-03T12:28:00.000-07:00

My love affair with off-shoulder tops and dresses hasn’t died out yet and neither has my fascination with vintage style. I love how sophisticated the era was - full of glamour, neat silhouettes and crisp tailoring. Replicating a look these days can be tough especially when all the high street retailers are all about trendy, street style looks, Which is why I resort to good vintage finds online.

I chanced upon this top while browsing through ASOS and immediately fell in love with it. It can be worn so many ways, which is why I decided to order it in the first place. I was iffy about how the quality would turn out, but luckily, it was just as I imagined it, or even better.

For my weekend look, I paired this delicate woven lace top with a midi full- circle skirt. Simple red peep toes and a bright fuchsia lip adds a pop of color and a wavy pony tail completes my retro look.

Top: ASOS, Skirt: Chica, Shoes: Dune, Clutch :Pull and Bear
Shot at The Intercontinental Regency Bahrain