Little things in life can go a long way. I have actually managed to make this list so that even you can experience the same feeling I get as I indulge myself in any of the items listed below. You should definitely give it a try next time you visit any of the following places!

1)Waffles: It’s an amazing place that serves all kinds of deserts from creamy mousses to mouth watering sundaes. As the name suggests it’s a place that is truly devoted to bringing us the best waffles in the country. Choco lotto, my personal favorite, is a crunchy waffle stuffed with walnut brownie, slurped in hot chocolate, and served along with it is one scoop of chocolate and vanilla ice-cream each. If you truly are a desert fan, please give this a try!

2)Birdy’s: If it’s one of those days you really crave some type of luxury, then chocolate éclair is your perfect match. This smooth cream filled delight guarantees to take you to an all time high.

3)Crepe Station: Very classy place serving pancakes, waffles and crepes (so totally French). If you want to just fill your stomach with some fries don’t forget to ask for that yummy yum white sauce, I think, garlic maybe…but trust me it rocks!

4)Subway: Weight watchers take a hike! Beware of the delicious taste of the Double Choc Chip Cookie or Oatmeal Cookie near those highly low cal sandwiches. That is one thing that called me back to subway!

5)Garcia’s Famous Pizza: My advice- If you’re a die-heart chicken fan, this one’s for you. Spicy Italian pizza. Its an extra yummy pizza topped with chicken sausages and chillies and loads of cheese. Like the idea? Call your nearest Garcias quick!

6)Sweet Palace: Located somewhere, where most of us would least expect it. In lokhandwala! It’s a small chaat centre serving one of the best Pani puri’s I have ever had! They even home deliver, just incase you don’t want to step outta your crib!

7)Candies: Great place to chill with friends whenever you want. Next time you pay a visit try ordering for a Dragon Chicken Roll or people like me with the sweet-tooth can go for the blueberry cheesecake, I guarantee you a great experience so sit back and relax!

8)Yummies: Ok…this place rocks. Its like a tiny place at Bandra which serves the best and most affordable Chinese ever! Get there and call for a Triple Schezwan Rice and you’ll get what I mean to say!

9)New Yorkers: If your Italian food crazy, this is the place to be! Nachos with Mexican beans is something you should definitely have, just incase you decide to crash in.

10)Juhu Beach: Last but not the least, Laxmi Pav Bhaji, one the oldest pav bhaji stands present on juhu beach. Serves the yummiest pav bhaji maska marke…and trust me once you taste it, you are completely hooked! Those extra pavs will never stop coming!

Well, I know all of us have that place and that particular comfort food you want everyone to try, so go ahead express yourself and let everyone enjoy what you enjoy!

BlackBubblegum

New year, new college, new friends, new campus, new opportunities, new life!
Let me help you out on what’s hot and what is completely important to keep in mind for this new academic year.

1. Stationery: The most important of them all! We shouldn’t forget the very reason we go to an educational institute…to gain knowledge! Make sure you have enough pens, pencils, handbooks and all textbooks before hand, so that you are in tune in what’s going in class no matter if you’re in or out of it! And perhaps if you want, glance through the texts so that you know what you need to before the teacher begins the topic, and wouldn’t be attending just for the sake of compulsory 75% attendance.

2. Trendy college bag: Very important. Choose a bag that not only suits your personality but also allows your journals to fit in it. (We should never forget the real reason for buying it in the first place, don’t you think?) Something huge and plastic-y and less leathery or fabric-y is what you should look for. And make sure its waterproof so that your books are safe just incase there is a downpour.

3. Dungarees: A short dungaree dress or normal dungarees either 2/4th’s, 3/4th’s or full ones teamed up with pair of leggings and a solid tee will look just fab!

4. Contact lenses: Just incase your on glasses, get yourself some change. Nothing against people who wear glasses, I do too, but the feeling of clear vision without my pair sometimes makes me feel at the top of this world and makes you feel like a million bucks!

5. Pair of black leggings: Please tell me you know this one by now? Team up with minis, shorts and all sorts of tops. And please word of advice, own only solid color’s like black with some lace or brown because everything else looks a little to fake and can look very cheap!

6. Tunics: Very here, very now! I am sure you have at least one of these in your closets by now. They not only put you in the spotlight but also grab you few “WOW” glances once in a while. A simple black tunic along with denims or leggings might just be the look for a casual hot day or a cold classy night with a bunch of accessories kicked in!

7. Skinny denims: New addition to class of ’07-08! Skinny people can team it up with all sorts of tops but just incase you think your thighs look to huge team up with long tunics or kurtees for you to look extra-ordinary baby!

8. Printed umbrella: If you don’t have one of these, I reckon you buy one. They might come in huge sizes, but trust me; they look super hot and keep you dry all day long! And don’t forget very sturdy!

9. Chunky long chains and hair accessories: Get a long silver chain with perhaps a pendant of a crown for the cute princesses, heart for the lovey dovey ones or perhaps a skull for the outrageous ones! I hope you get the point. This chunky bling will not only make you stand out, but also make you’re very simple outfit look very simply “haute!” Add hair clips, hair bands and crazy accessories to jazz up your look!

10. Footwear: Two words: Flip-flops! Hmmm….Comfy slip-on’s you can run around in and also converse for a more classier look just incase you wanna look girly one day and tom boy-ey the next!

And last but definitely not the least; don’t forget to carry your confidence and positive attitude.

Quick Pointers:
Be friendly and let no comment effect you.
Act sober and decent just incase you don’t want to fall prey to ragging.
Believe in yourself and act polite with teachers and students.
Don’t forget to thank someone after you receive help and do the same if you’re asked for help.
Be generous, kind and speak to all kinds of people around you.
Do not limit your friend circle.
Don’t judge any one by the first look, dig deep.
And please people smile like an a** if you have to, though some people might think your completely nuts, but trust me, many would fall in love with that gorgeous smile!

What else…Have fun…Go Nuts….And F.Y.I.?

Welcome to Life Baby! This is where the fun begins!

BlackBubblegum

We all love to enjoy the gloomy clouds and days-off during the monsoons, but absolutely hate it when it comes to the rain damaging our hair or skin. When was the last time you did something to save your hair or skin from the rains in your busy schedule? Here are a few tips, that may help you cope up with the monsoons without making you look “all washed out”!

Skin Care

Cleansing

Skin requires regular cleansing in order to keep it looking fresh and healthy. Here are some home recipes you can use to get ever-refreshed skin.

Dry skin: You can use almond paste or honey. Take ten crushed almonds and make a paste and add two tsp of honey. Massage on face for 5 to 7 minutes, rinse face and pat dry.

Oily Skin: You need a very mild cleanser to get the dead skin and dirt off from skin. Use pure oatmeal scrub to cleanse oily skin or use ripe papaya pulp as a mild exfoliant.

Toning

Toning is a necessity at night. During monsoon, a lot of airborne and waterborne germs are let free. So a good anti-bacterial toner will go a long way to prevent skin infections and breakouts. It is a good idea to get anti-bacterial face wash too.

Dry Skin: You need to gently tone a dry skin since the size of your skin pores is small. Use five drops of chamomile oil in a one tsp milk to tone dry skin

Oily Skin: Mix ten drops lavender oil in one tsp water to tone oily skin. Sweep the above mixture on your skin with gentle strokes by help of a soft cotton ball and nothing very harsh so that you avoid scratching pimples with further may result it scars or blemishes.

Moisturizing

Moisturizing in the rains is as important as it is in summer.
Monsoons can mean a de-hydrating effect on dry skin and an excessive-hydrating effect on oily skin. The skin gets wet often and with the constant wetting and drying, a lot of dehydration (yes, in the rains!) takes place. That explains the itchy feeling one gets during monsoons. Use a non-water based moisturizer, if you happen to get wet often. Otherwise a water- based moisturizer will do just fine.

Dry Skin: Take I tsp honey, I tsp fresh curd and I tsp jojoba oil. Mix all of these together and apply on your face and neck. Leave it on for 10 mins and then wash off with plenty of water.

Oily and Combination Skin: In 2 tsp rose water add 2 drops of strawberry oil and fresh orange oil. Mix and apply on face and neck for 10 mins and then wash off.

Hair Care

Hairstyles and Grooming

Styling can only be done when it goes suddenly from damp to dry. Damp hair is very flexible. It stretches easily and breaks. It needs to be handled cautiously. Towel dry gently and don’t pull or comb wet hair. Use your fingers or a blow dryer to dry hair until it’s just slightly damp. Then pick up your styling brush. If you have to rush, just style the front and sides of the hairline, which frames your face. Focus on the top of the crown, which creates the top layer of the hairstyle.
My best buy is L’Oreal Liss Extreme Reflexium Leave-In conditioner to tackle the frizzy hair and Schwarzkopf’s Hot Oil Treatment.

Got trapped in the rains? Your hair is limp and lifeless. And you have a party or an important meeting to attend. Don’t panic! Here are some tips that can put life into limp hair. Firstly detangle using a wide-tooth comb. Blow-dry until hair’s just a little damp. If you’re at work, let hair air-dry. Take a few long curler clips (available at markets) and insert them wherever you want to restore wave or shape. Let hair set for a few minutes, remove the clips, and shake.

Home Remedies

Beer makes the super soft silky and shiny. Use it after shampooing your hair by rinsing beer on your hair and leave it on for twenty min. See the difference to believe for yourself.

Three teaspoons of Olive oil, half teaspoon of castor oil and coconut oil mixed together with a paste made of methi seeds is a must try tip to avoid frizziness in rains.

Two tablespoons of curds which is kept outside for three to four days mixed with three teaspoons of lime juice applied as conditioner after shampooing. Keep the mixture on your head for 30mins and wash off. This is the best method to avoid flaking of scalp and roughness.

Important Tips for Clean and fresh hair:

• If possible keep your hair tied in the monsoons. Go for a shorter hair cut if you want to avoid dirt build up on your scalp or get splits ends. A well-groomed look is essential in the monsoons.
•Do not let your hair get wet in the rain. Pollution, floating toxins in the air come down with the rain and settle on your scalp. This makes your scalp feel itchy and may cause dandruff. Always cover your hair. My advice- make umbrellas or raincoats your best friends, to avoid danger to your pretty locks.
• Rinse your hair with a gentle shampoo and condition it after, if your hair happens to get drenched in the rain. This way you prevent dirt build up on your head.
• While traveling by public transport or perhaps if you drive a scooty or something, keep your head covered with scraf/cap,etc. This protects your hair from probable damage.

By the way, the famous BOB cut has returned and perhaps you can try the new side swept bangs with slightly longer strands around the centre.

Further recipes, remedies and any find of extra helpful information is always welcome. Feel free to express yourself and ask for help, after all, I am here to help you’ll out. And please if you guys want me to write about something let me know so that I can gather all the neccessary information and help you all out!
As I always say, Glad to have helped!
After all monsoons are there to be enjoyed, so take total advantage of my guides!

BlackBubblegum

Monsoon is finally here…so I am thinking….bright colours to uplift our spirits on gloomy rainy days! Time to remove those umbrellas and be a part of the “splish splash” around! Finally the season of paper boats is here!
What you waiting for? Read on and get in the mood for some real fun!

Fashion

•Avoid full lengths bottoms like denims (they tend to get heavy, so like you can’t run around having fun) or trousers (they tend to get sticky…eeeeks!) instead opt for capris or shorts in lighter fabrics and darker shades so that it doesn’t get all transy when wet!

•Fashion goes bright in monsoons, if you get what I mean! Bring out those gorgeous bright umbrella’s (love those huge multicolored one’s that have just hit the fashion scene) or maybe graphic printed umbrellas (try something called vintage umbrellas) or raincoats. Oversized rain poncho’s or windcheaters are the key here not just in a fashionable manner but in a precautious way too cause, they help you keep dry! If you’re a classic fan look around for black umbrella’s with lace trimmings in the ends which will give you an edge over others!

•BOOTS! I ain’t kidding! And please don’t get me wrong by thinking I am talking about the leather ones that were in some time back….I am talking of those nice shiny ones which never get ruined and protect your “better” shoes from damage!

•IF you’re not the outrageous types, flip flops you get a lot of them nowadays “everywhere”! From greeny blues to hot pinks..they have everything…very easy to slip on and run around in the rains..just make sure you get something which gives you a good grip so that you don’t slip off…very possible in the rainy days!

•Transparent Handbags look great and help in saving your important stuff from getting wet! They look trendy and make a great fashion statement. Oversized work well, as I always say the bigger, the better!

Here’s an pictorial illustration made by me for you guys just to let you know what’s hot this season!

Beauty Fix-Ups!

•Foundation:
Forget about it! Unless you want a streaky face if by chance you are caught in the rain without an umbrella! Use face powder instead.

•Powder
Powder should only be used sparingly to blot the shine off of your nose. Powder on naked skin, and powder that’s been overused; you don’t want to look like a ghost, do you?

•Mascara & Eyeliner
Use the waterproof variety of mascara to avoid weeping black tears. Forget eyeliner during monsoons. Try using your kajal pencil or apply a dark eye shadow on your eyelids with eyeliner brush.

•Lips
Use the long lasting color-stay/non-transfer types. Stay away from liquid lip colors this season, especially if you have to be outdoors for some time.

Now, this was just part 1 look out for many more helpful tips for the monsoons in my next article. Till then…keep reading and guys do contribute if you yourself have found something real interesting out there! After all its a BIG world !!

Till then,
Keep it trendy!
BlackBubblegum

Who doesn’t want to get noticed? Right? And which one of us would want to buy new clothes when you already have so much lying around! The key here is Mix-Match! Throw in simple classic outfits and turn them retro and fun in an instance. Not every one was born with the sense of fashion…But trust me, if I am around you can never go wrong! So you go gurl!

1. I know, its summer…so I am thinking telling you to layer will be a bad option…but you really can’t expect me not to mention such an integral part of recreating a look! Don’t worry I have got a solution. Remember that racer back top you haven’t worn in ages just cause it shows little too much of your belly? Well, just wear a plain sleeveless tank top over it, which is long enough or even better wear a solid colored fitted tee with half sleeves under it…to give you that edge over others!

2. Got belts, don’t you? Wear those slightly wide ones around your hips..over long tunic tops. You can also wear those thin ones just below your bust, real tight (i.e. actually your waist region).This helps in giving your body shape and making you look curvier.

3. Tie ribbons left by gift-wraps on the side loops of your denims..team it up with bows (again got by those gift wrapping papers) in your hair by using a bob pin. This makes you look girlie and cute..still smart yet fashionable.

4. Got those canvas shoes? You know those white, black or blue-white sport shoes. Something that you wore when you were in school? Replace boring laces with bright fluorescent colored laces from your “better” shoes! If you have a creative side, you can paint them with fabric paints or waterproof sketch pens; to give it your own touch.

5. One word, Leggings! It’s about time you have at least one black one in your wardrobe! Wear ultra mini skirts over them with short cropped tops. Good option for college if your college has problems with too much skin show. You could even wear hot shorts or knee-length knickers over them..if you really are a wild child, that is! Leggings are great…light and comfortable so you don’t even feel hot and just incase you aren’t waxed and are in a mood to wear a skirt…then unwaxed legs wouldn’t stop you from wearing what you feel like!

6. Scarves…according to me are about to come back again. So make use of the one’s your Mum has! If you’re a scooty chic, you could always wrap your face with the help of a scarf, to protect it from the U.V.! Can also be used as a hairband, and just incase you happen to forget to carry a rubber band use it to tie your tresses with help of a gentle yet firm pull back knot!

7. Go crazy by rolling denims to capri length and team up with bright knee-length socks! Or even better wear a short skirt with knee-length socks and bright stilettos. Sounds interesting, eh? Worth a try..trust moi!

8. Got old denims? Cut them half! No, I am not kidding! Go to your tailor let him take your measurements. Leave a little denim about 2 to 3 inch below the knees and ask him to fold them inside-out and stitch them or you could use safety pins from home to make your new look even more stylish! I advice dark colored denims, cause the silver-ness in the safety pins are more prominent that way!

9. Did you wear a tie to school? Still have that in your closet somewhere? Remember how it was a pain to wear it every morning and reach school on time…and remember how you hated to wear it because it looked so ugly? Well, not any more! Find them…and wear it really loose over a classic half sleeved white shirt with a contrast colored singlet within, with first two buttons open!…Yes, Yes…I know…You never thought something that seemed to be so ugly can actually manage to make you look so hot now?

10. Got a jacket, t-shirt, tops, or anything that you have grown out of? Which is shorter than it should be? Has got stretched a little too much by the washing machine? Or just shows off a little too much of cleavage? Just wear a thin plain tunic within it….which will end up looking stunning!

I hope you guys enjoyed this and I hope I helped you save some pocket money!
If you guys, have your closet fix-ups or new ideas that I haven’t listed above, be free to share it with all of us!
But remember everyone,
A confident posture and a broad smile contributes almost 50% to your look!
So keep Smiling!

BlackBubblegum

[P.S : I am BACK]

Stock up on the basics, just incase you are left behind…Here are a list of make-up essentials you’ll be needing all year round! Here is a list of the new products in the block which are definitely worth a try!

1. Foundation: One of the most essential parts of make-up is foundation, which is usually applied to get more coverage than any other base. If you need an overall “even” look opt for foundation. Choose a foundation closest to your skin color, and since the summer is already here, I reckon you go for something light. Tinted moisturizer is also a good option, just incase you don’t find it you can mix your foundation with your usual moisturizer.
Check out: Lakme Daily Wear Soufflé or Maybelline Wonder Finish.
For an elegant sheen try Revlon Face Illuminator Lotion

2. Concealer: Yes…it’s completely alright if you have some dark spots on your face that you want to hide, like those scars left by break-outs or dark circles that haunt you as you can’t get enough sleep. Concealer’s usually blend well in such areas and just incase you do not have a concealer you can use the dried off part of foundation that is left in its cap.
Check out: Maybelline Cover Stick and Lakme Magic Face Concealer

3. Kohl or Kajal: No one in this planet will disagree on this one. A girl might forget to wash her face but she can never forget to wear “Kajal”. Simple yet elegant, kohl makes your eyes speak volumes! Always keep it handy and opt for a waterproof and smudge-proof one for the summers!
Check out: Lakme Kajal and Kohl Sparklers to add that extra sparkle!

4. Mascara: Flirty lashes are forever in season. Black mascara’s have always been an important part of every girl’s make-up regime let it be thickening, lengthening, or waterproof. Just incase you want to break the rules and go wild…try blue mascara…it’s all of a sudden come back again! Go retro chic.
Check out: Loreal Volume Shocking Mascara Maybelline Volume Express Range.

5. Nail Color: Keep it fresh! Vivacious greens, flirty pinks, steamy reds or just fun oranges, go crazy with your nails…nothing is as hot as perfectly well polished nails!
Check out: Colorama in Pink Sparkle and Wonder Violet or Street Wear Nail Color in Sand Stone.

6. Cleanser: A good cleanser is needed to remove all that dirt, oil and grime from your face in order to save your skin from untimely break-outs.
Check out: Clean and Clear Face Wash for Oily Skin
Garnier Pure Face Wash gel for Combination to Oily Skin
Ponds White Beauty Skin Brightening Facial Foam for Normal Skin
Nomarks Face Wash for all skin types

7. Sunscreen: Now who wants to get tanned? No one does…so a good sunscreen is something you need all year round because the sun in India can get very bad sometimes!
Check out: Lotus SPF 40 Matte Look Daily Sunblock
Everyuth Derma Care Daily Sun Block SPF 30

8. Matte Lipstick: Very essential for lipstick wearers everywhere. Gloss might give away soon but matte lipsticks are better option for daily wear and for longer hours.
Check out: Maybelline Moisture Extreme in Desert Bloom and Sugar Plum Ice.

9. Lip Balm: Yes…lips get damaged in summers too! You need to protect them with the right product so that they remain smooth and don’t get tanned. Applying lip balm before putting lipstick helps in longer wear of lipstick.
Check Out: Vaseline Petroleum Jelly or Blistex Lip Tone SPF 15.

10. Facial Wipes: Facial Wipes are life saviors when it comes to traveling and getting rid of all that make-up from your face. They leave your skin clean, cool and refreshed.
Check Out: Baby Wipes (Inexpensive substitute to costly facial wipes)
Dove Fresh Blue Facial Wipes

11. Eyeliner: Black liner nowadays is worn in winged style…something that you saw Angelina Jolie wear in Alexander! Very Cleopatra…but still very haute! You can also experiment with bold colors like metallic blues and bright greens.
Check out: Lakme Liquid Intense Shine Eye liner in ink blue, sky and bronze.
Maybelline Expert Eyes Pencil liner in Charcoal.
Revlon Colorstay Pencil in Black.

12. Eye Shadow: Dramatize your look by giving your eyes a splash of color! Crème eye shadows stay for longer hours and do not smudge. For a more outdoorsy look you can just sweep some basic glitter over your lids, to go glam!
Check out: Loreal Color Appeal TrioPro Eye Shadow Kit
VOV Pearl Powder in White

13. Lip Gloss: Clear lip gloss is the way to go this spring. It gives a clear shiny yet glossy look which makes your lips look fuller and more juicilicious!
Check out: Lakme Starshine Lip Gloss or Lakme Lip Gloss in Chocolate and Strawberry
ColorBar Perfect Gloss

14. Blush-on: Go girlie with that slight pinkish blush. Natural is always the best option when it comes to blush-on. Pinch the apples of your check right after your bath…the redder or pinker they get is the most suitable color for your blush-on. Brush product over the apples of your cheeks (the plump part that comes out when you give your broadest smile!) with a big brush for best results!
Check out: Maybelline Expert Wear Blush or Loreal Blush Delice

15. Moisturizer: One of the classics, without which any skin care regime, is worthless…Moisturizing is necessary in order to regain skin’s lost moisture after baths.
Check out: Nivea Soft Moisturizing Cream for all skin types
Loreal Pure Zone for Oily skin
Garnier Body Tonic for Normal to Dry skin

I hope this helped! You’ll usually find all the products listed in most of the drugstores or malls around you!
Happy Make-up Shopping you guys!
Like always…Enjoy!

BlackBubblegum

1.Join some classes: Interested in music? …join guitar classes…..not your thing? Piano maybe or the drums? …..maybe painting classes….salsa, hip-hop, ball-room dancing…..and absolutely anything that interests you.
My Tip: You can always look out for talking yellow pages….dial 022-28888888…… they have classes like these listed in their directories…or you can check out newspapers like Mumbai Mirror You Connect or On Track Suburbs.

2.Learn how to cook or make stuff: Cooking can be fun, and I mean it! Though I ain’t such a great cook myself…I always love to get in the kitchen once in while. Pay you dear Mumma a visit, in her shrine of mouth-watering homemade food and learn some of the basic stuff…you know just incase you would have to live alone for sometime or make a special meal for your significant other!
My Tip: Start with basics, tea, maggi, dal, chawal, macaroni and cheese pasta and then try your hand in chocolates, cakes, dishes, etc. You can also learn how to make candles and perfumes…!

3.Pamper yourself at home: Drench your feet and hands in warm water with some vinegar or rock salt in it, then file your nails (rounded short nails are the thing this season), moisturize and paint them anything you like! Or fill a bowl with hot water; add some marbles and sea salt. Drench your hands in it and play with the marbles for about 5 minutes with each hand. It works wonders for tired hands!
My Tip: For cracked feet apply a thick paste of haldi and castor oil on them….do this 15 minutes before bath and end up with gorgeous healthy feet or you can mix a cup of bottle lauki juice, with half cup ginger oil and heat it…..and then massage it over your feet!

4.Watch all episodes of F.R.I.E.N.D.S with your pals: Enough said? …F.R.I.E.N.D.S. has been an integral part of our lives since we saw the first initial episodes and cracked up in front of the TV without even knowing what its all about…there’s no plot…..there are only these amazingly great set of six people who are just to perfect together…..they make you wana be them trust me on that! Please if you have missed out…you have a lot of catching up to do…you can never get enough of Chandler, Joey, Ross, Monica, Phoebe and Rachel!
My Tip: Catch FRIENDS Monday-Friday 7pm IST on Star World! Or order in complete seasons from your DVD wala!

5.Learn how to drive: It can be a car….it can be a two-wheeler …it can be a bicycle…a e-bike or just something that you have not had your hands on! It’s always good to learn early….and never too late to learn…I hope you get my point!
My Tip: Join Motor Driving School’s just incase your siblings or parents aren’t ready to help!

6.Rent Movies: It all depends on your mood……..! Go to a movie rental place…look through all the DVD’s…see something appealing….just grab on to it!
My Tip: For teens try American Pie, Mean Girls, and John Tucker Must Die. In action check out the MI series or something adventurous then go for Jurassic park series or the classic Jumanji! On a more serious note try Philadelphia and romantics can see Kate and Leopold…….I just know you won’t regret it!

7.Get yourself some retail therapy: Get out of the house! Go to malls and markets. Literally shop till you drop i.e. until your Mum says the money she had has exhausted! New summer collections are out in various malls and stores…go get yourself something that is in fashion this season!
My Tip: Mango, Westside, Levis, Shopper’s Shop, Lifestyle, etc.

8.Call your friends who you lost contact with: When they start yelling at you that where have you been, blame it on the exams!:P
My Tip: Meet up with them and relive the good old memories!

9.Answer Nature’s Call: Get up in the morning, go for a stroll in the park, go cycling on the cool and quiet roads, play frizbee on the beach or just go for a swim in the club’s pool!
My Tip: If you’re alone, do not forget your Ipod! Or radio or whatever!

10.Log on to: http://blah.burrp.com/author/blackbubblegum and read my articles!
My Tip: Don’t only love me….check out articles written by others as well!

Liked that? I have something really special for everyone…I am coming up with articles where I am giving people I know….Style Makeovers…doesn’t it sound just fab? I am already so excited……keep coming back…….You’ll surely love it….I promise!

Glad to have helped……….Suggestions, queries, comments, anything! Are always welcome…….you guys already know what to do, don’t you’ll

BlackBubblegum

Summer doesn’t just bring along with it…the sun…but it also brings along a new fashion season! And you all must have understood by now how crazy I am about fashion right? Well, today I ain’t just here to tell you how to stock up a new wardrobe…I am here to help you make your check list of the stuff you should seriously consider buying for this season! So go on ….my fella’s indulge…..!
(Courtesy:: I have uploaded a few of my pictures just to give you a insight what you should actually look for)

Fashion

1. Sunglasses: Go ultra glam with just the perfect pair! Something huge; kind of honeybee shaped with studs in the sides…to give you that edge over others…Guys opt for something classic yet huge…if you understand what I am trying to say..Brands ain’t important….you just need to find yourself something to protect yours pretty “peepers” from the harmful UV.
Try: Fastrack Biker Collection for Guys and Ladies look out for brands like Oakley and Ray-Ban and sports fan’s you guys can check out the new collection of Carrera Sport.

2. Bright Junk Jewelry: A look is never complete without junk….Summer brings with it naughty heated moments….light flirty conversations…and everything “summer-y” you can think of…so please do me a favor go out buy yourself some subtle young light but bright colored chains, delicate bracelets, anything too heavy “is so” not summer and be very light on the ears….with small earrings, diamonds and the new plastic junk that you get!The boho look is in too!
Try: See Archie’s Collections, Hallmark, and Riverdale…in short all those gift shops….or if you want to go light on your pockets go for a stroll in linking road, lokhandwala market, colaba causeway, fashion street, etc.

3.Comfy Slip-ons: Ok…I don’t get it?…its summer and people are running around wearing keds, stiletto’s…leather straped…or knee-length boots! I mean..just cause it’s the latest fashion abroad doesn’t mean that you follow it blindly! Those people wear it because its probably winter out there….but do not forget its summer here!!! Stick to comfy slippers like osho’s or perhaps if you are a college student like me you can opt for converse…they are just so darn comfortable! By the way please keep your eyes open for this new thing that has come out called ‘Crocs’…they are just the best!
Try: Again local shop vendors, street markets, sports showrooms like nike, adidas, puma or those duty free multi-brand selling factory outlets.

4. Hair Accessories: It’s hot….and you got gorgeous long hair that is simply to hard to manage in this heat! What do you?…well nothing…just buy yourself some hair accessories.Hairbands, Headbands, clips, rubber bands, pins..the works!
Try: Cute girlie girl clips in pink, sky blue and orange…with perhaps hearts, stars and cute lil things…..single colored or bi-colored hairbands…don’t buy something multicolored cause everyone else is already wearing that…do you really want to be in the crowd or do you want to be “the crowd”? Think about it!

5. Big Handbags: Huge bags are all the rage….buy something you can dump all your make-up, your books…your novels….your clothes your wallets your everything! Buy something with long straps so it’s just comfortable enough to hold….and something bright is always advisable!
Try: In Touch in Inorbit, Malad….local vendors….Baggit branded bags in shops and asoka collection of lokhandwala. Maybe even bags in shopper’s stop and lifestyle.

Beauty

1. Sunscreen: Ban the sun this summer! Do not let the UV rays harm you! And tan you!
Try: Lotus SPF 30+, Lakme or the all time best Banana boat….Please opt for sunscreens above 25 SPF because the sun in India can really harm the skin.

2.Shampoo: Shampoo your hair everyday to have a cool and clean scalp…the heat can cause dryness, itchiness, split ends dandruff and what not! And if you think that its bad to shampoo your hair everyday…think again cause that is just a myth!
Try: Ultra Doux with plant milk, Sunsilk Velvetly Soft or Pantene balanced clean.

3. Subtle Make-up: Do not wear layers of make up cause all of it well get all greasy and stuff due to the heat..and you might end up looking like a disaster! Wear to the max only black kohl, liner to define eyes…and gloss…..for shiny lips!
Try: Water Shine Liquid Diamonds Maybelline in Crystal Amethyset or Lotus lip balm for mosturized lips.You can opt for balms that have sunscreen too…that way your lips will be protected!

4. Nail Polish: Use bright colours like pink, blue, orange nothing to bold though…just fresh! Black nails look good too….you just need to know how to carry it…that’s all!
Try: Lakme, Elle 18, Street Wear…actually to tell you the truth I don’t think brands matter in nail enamels..if you think you got the right match for you go ahead and buy it!

So I hope you are happy, aren’t you?
If you need me for any other advice…you know where to reach me!
HERE!
Cyaz

BlackBubblegum

Ok…I know, I know! India lost that match to Bangladesh….It left nearly half the Indian’s out here traumatized! Shocking I must say were the cricketer’s performance’s as we all expected more than what they acttually displayed 2 days back! Well, anyways coming back to the REAL reason am here….I am here, to get that smile back on your face…That smile that was lost and which has altered your interest in seeing the rest of the matches..I mean how log can you guys acttually be bumped about a match, right? Try catching up with these “oh-so” feel good movies which will make you proud of being an Indian! and instill that faith you have in your country…..AGAIN!

1.Lagaan:: By far, the bestestestestestest bollywood flick that left us shattered and heartbroken but also at the same time made us jump around in glee and be proud of our ancestors! It’s historically that mark which signifies the very start of the marvel game of cricket in our country! Those amazing lyrics, the fantastic dialogues, the background scenario, everything just fits in so well…story being about few villagers who have nothing left to pay up their tax aka LAGAAN as there wasn’t any water to harvest their lands. Every year they just sat around wondering when the almighty will bless them with rainfall…until one day…a young guy called “Bhuvan” realised that just sitting there and not doing anything about it will not help them in anyway…he being gutsy, outgoing and willing to do anything to take all the pain away from his fellow-villagers makes a bet with a snobby english captain that if they beat their team in a match of cricket the britisher’s wouldn’t take any tax from them for the next three years. Though people thought that Bhuvan had gone crazy, he some how manages to make a team of 11 villagers who are willing to support him. Slowly but surely, the villagers start believing in their motives and support them.The movie ends with an amazingly great end where they manage to win the match and forget all their worries for the next 3 years!
PS: IF you haven’t seen this movie, I advise you to rush and see it and maybe thank me later

2.Iqbal:: Ok, I know what you are thinking…how did this movie get into this list? well, i have no explaination acttually, this movie was one of the major films that instilled in me keen interest for cricket….It’s just a simple yet elegant movie that potrays how a dumb and deaf boy believes in his dreams, realizes his potentinal and actually achieves them with his mentor and his very sweet sibling by his side. Iqbal was born with a passion for cricket. It was somthing he lived for; he gave his cows names of renowed cricketers!While attending to them, he would stop and watch youngsters being trained by the renowned Guruji. When Guruji finds out about Iqbal’s interest in the game, he recruits him, but lets him go when a dispute flares up between his top pupil, Kamal, and Iqbal. A disheartened Iqbal finds a new mentor, in the form of alcoholic, Mohit, who reluctantly decides to tutor Iqbal, so much so that Iqbal qualifies to play in the Andhra Pradesh team for a Ranjee trophy match. The match is won, and a way is cleared for Iqbal to find a place in the Indian team. It’s butt obvious that they are faced with factors like his dad not having interest in the ’stupid’ game or maybe stiff competition by the stubborn players he plays against…all in all its a complete film and a must watch!

3.Sarfarosh:: Ok…..this is something I am sure all of you have seen….its sarfarosh for god’s sake! It’s the time all girls my age were babies and fell in love with Aamir Khan for the very first time! The plot is that this guy Ajay Rathod living in South Mumbai falls in love with this totally uber-cool chic called Seema, she being Sonali Bendre. But to the girl’s suspense, we find out that Ajay is actually Assistant Commissioner of Police, Ajay Singh Rathod, who has been assigned the task of looking for a group of terrorists, that are being sheltered and protected by corrupt parliamentary representatives, with arms being supplied by Pakistan. Ajay does not know that the trail which he is following will lead him to Rajasthan, right into the house of the person who runs this operation - a person who is someone he has already met in the past….!

4.Rang De Basanti:: This brought about that thing which was called a youth movement! It showed that truly, youth nowadays are actually interested in their country and are finally rising against the corruption we have been facing since centuries! Here a UK based girl called Sue on setting foot in India, is very enthusiastic in making a movie on the lives of the freedom fighter’s which was witnessed by her grandad…She enlists a gang of college students to participate in a documentary about India’s freedom fighters. Initially, these students scoff at the ideals and people of the past, but a sequence of events set in slow motion a merging of the past and present and bring in chaos and disorder. In the end they realize their worth and decide to awaken an entire GENERATION!

5.The Legend of Bhagat Singh:: Our nation was blessed with soles like Bhagat Singh, Rajguru, Sukhdev, and Chandrashekhar Azad. If you thought you are a true patriot…think Bhagat Singh..he is your role-model! They sacrified all that they had for this nation….they are the reason we can run about freely in this country! Only when you see this movie you’ll understand the real meaning of sacrifice! All schools had taken their students to watch this movie in order to show them the real patriotism that resulted in our independence! This movie, though having a totally emotional ending passes off as a great entertainer! It not only educates you about our history but also makes you feel proud of being an Indian!

I hope I helped!
BlackBubblegum

Ok this is a *GUYS ONLY* area….(Oh girls! It’s OK, if your already on this post…its fare for you people to cheat!)
This is private and coinfidential…
It’s something every guy out there has been waiting for…
It’s a sneak peek to what is called “Girlfriend’s Code of Honor”..
And hereby I begin~!
I asked nearly a dozen or more girlfriends of mine, of what they thought were the most desirable traits a chic looks for in her guy?…and guess what? I actually formulated the top ten and came up with this list! It’s 100% true stuff…it’s what the chic’s feel…so go ahead, read up and if you stick to it…nothing can stop you from becoming the next “Haute thang!”

1. Intelligent and Aware of things happenning around him:: Ok now…do you think a hot babe would want to waste her time on some guy who has a brain of a size of an peanut? I guess not! Nothing is more desirable to a girl than a man with superior intellect! Don’t worry boys, I am not talking about geeks,nerds or bookworms (though this season nerds are all the rage..hehe :P)….you just have to be apt enough to be aware of all that is happening around you and her call it knowing the latest books, latest music, latest hangout’s, or whatever she’s interested in!

2.Good Sense of Humour:: All girls, and I mean it….all of them, want their man to have what it takes to get a smile on her face! Great sense of humour is a good way to set the fireworks!

3. You Make her feel Beautiful:: Gals,if you don’t know the obvious yet…love compliments! So start the showering boys….!

4.Good Dresser:: Now, this is very important…chic’s don’t want to be seen around in public with guys who wear “cheap flourescent green”-similar clothing!

5.You Challenge her to be Better:: For example, you see her letting a great talent go to waste, encourage her; maybe that’s all she needs. Don’t be afraid to sign her up for an art class, or push her to pursue a career you know she’d be good at. The fact that you care that much about her well-being will make her want to keep you around longer.

6.You Respect her and her Family:: It’s important to avoid letting your ego get the best of you, so if your mentally still stuck in the 18th century you must adjust to changing times. You have to understand that she’s an equal part of the relationship. Bid advice is to try to embrace her family early on. In addition to scoring goodie points, being kind towards her parents is a great way to show that you’re serious about the relationship!

7. Give her space::Trust is the key to the happiest of all relationships. Let her hang-out with her guy friends, let her have fun without you! She expects you to understand! She can’t just stop talking to all of her guy friends! It’s awkward! So be a nice guy and remember this!

8.Guys that keep their Hormones in Check:: When they first meet you. Chics are very turned off by guys that act like a dog in heat that make sexually suggestive remarks and become all touchy with them very soon!

9. Ambitious:: Girls are looking for guys who know what they want. They want guys who know where he is going in life and how to get there.

10. Good Conversationalist:: Last but not the least…he should listen to what she has to say! Girls adore guys who listen to them and love sharing things…so be quite…give her some time to open up!

I hope you loved it! Crumb away on what you feel….suggestions, queries and anything and everything are welcome!

BlackBubblegum