What: Overstatement Necklace by Cheny Wagma, email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or visit chenywagma.blogspot.com, starts at Rs 1,400.

Why: Because this jewellery designer strings antique gold and silver chains together with crystals to create some of the fiercest, most eye-catching neck pieces we’ve seen in a long time. She customises as well.

When: You enjoy arty-chokes.

Last week, a pricey Mumbai store decided to stop milling over the gloss and start playing to the gallery. A welcome development, even if it was just for a month. Australian women’s fashion brand Forever New moved piles of style from its Phoenix Mills store to an empty art gallery in Bandra, slashed its prices by (up to) 70%, and alerted hoards of regulars. We went en masse, but left with class - a formal high-waisted grey jersey skirt with slanting pockets (Rs 700), made even more delicious by the fact that some unsuspecting shopper once paid Rs 2,400 for it. The next day – when new shipment was expected – we returned for more goodies.

What: Wrought iron miniature automobiles, Earth, Inorbit, R City and Phoenix Mills Malls, call 26349074, starts at Rs 1,250.

Why: Because these mini auto rickshaws and bicycles, replicated down to fully functional chains and steering wheels, are a perfect melding of childhood whimsy and adult aesthetics. If you want to go all out, bag the life-size Harley Davidson, constructed entirely from wood.

When: You want to toy with the past.

As Couture Week sashays into Mumbai, bpb digs through its style files to line-up the coolest, under-the-radar designers we wish would be in the spotlight.

Ladies and Their Linen

What: Minimalist linen wear, Kishmish Design Studio, Colaba, call 9820031361, Rs 2,500 for a cowl-neck dress.
Why: Because Nikki Kalia and her partner‘s collection of deceptively simple designs in an airy palette of whites, creams and pale blues is like a bit of beach for your closet. You’ll find Kishmish offerings at Melange, Ensemble and more, but these designers also run a secret studio, where they’ll create customised pieces.
When: You want to lay it on the line(n).

What: Bag in a Bag, call Beverly on 9820792918 or visit her stall on October 10 at Candies Bazaar & Bling next to Learners Academy, Bandra (W), Rs 90 to Rs 250.

Why: These silk organisers carry essentials, fit in any bag and ensure you don’t misplace stuff on your switch from satchel to sling. We also love the patchwork lingerie and stiletto bags. Customised orders available.

When: You want to get Carrie(d) away.

What: Funky boxer shorts for men and women from SayC, call Simera on 9833073066. Check the Facebook group here.

Why: Because these super comfy boxers, sporting everything from Felix the cat to Mr. Men, are guaranteed to jazz up your underwear drawer.

When: You want to burn the briefs along with the bra.

The Gandhi hangover continues at Bombay Electric, putting an end to dry fashion days in the city. This South Mumbai mecca of style pays tribute to the Mahatma with an exhibition titled By Hand, putting the spotlight on the humble, hand-spun khadi. In collaboration with NGO Women Weave’s Organic Khadi Project, the store is retailing designs for women, men and children crafted from Gandhi’s favourite fabric, with a side of chai and farsan. Check out the organic lotus pants. Wear no evil, we say. On till Oct 9.

Getting there: Bombay Electric, 1 Reay House, Best Marg, Colaba. Call 22876276.

 

What: Garage sale at Ruby Mansion, 3rd floor, near St Stephens Church, Napeansea Road, call 9821555982.

Why: Rummage through writer/traveller Natasha Pratap’s past, on sale this weekend. You’re guaranteed to find treasures in her crazy jumble of books, CDs, clothes and trinkets. Also check out gold school girl clips from SOS and What the Fuss pom pom neck pieces at Taxxi and Vitamin K’s Diwali Bazaar.

When: Oct 3-4, 11 am to 6 pm; and Diwali Bazaar from October 2 to 4.

What: Made-to-order hemp pants for men and women, call Sarita on 9220520467, price on request.

Why: This designer-to-watch-out-for makes the coolest 3/4ths out of hemp, but remember, with great pants comes great patience; she has to order the banned fabric all the way from Nepal.

When: You like your pants smoking hot.

What: Personalised Sky Lanterns, to order call 9821030582, Rs 125 onwards.

Why: Made from biodegradable paper, these “noiseless firecrackers” are safe, eco-friendly and super pretty.

When: You want to set the night on fire.