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Being Gender Fluid

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FWD Life new Being Gender Fluid cover story

What the term means to FWD and how we managed to portray it through the cover of our fashion special issue

Words by Rheanna Mathews     Photos: Jinson Abraham

Gender Fluidity is a new term, one that has nothing to do with one’s sexual orientation, but a gender identity that is best described as a dynamic mix of man and woman. There is the general tendency to consider gender a binary concept, when in fact, it isn’t so black and white. It is a wide and fluid spectrum and human beings needn’t conform to this binary that society has etched out for us.

This year, starting with the Paris Haute Couture to the Amazon India Fashion week, innovation, sustainability and gender fluidity were common among them all. So, it was decided that fashion and innovation would be the sub-theme with the main focus on gender fluidity. The idea was that the three models, of different genders, without accentuating their own gender or secondary sexual characteristics, would be able to enhance the features of the costumes, instead of their own identities.

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Alan Alexander Kaleekal, an emerging Malayali designer caught our attention. His show at the Lakme´ Fashion Week last year featured gender neutral clothes. “In a world that is fast shedding its gender specific roles, it is high time we initiated the conversation about a versatile wardrobe that questions the conventional rules and norms set by our society,” is Kaleekal’s thought on his designs.

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Siddharth Menon, Ketaki Narayan and Anjali Ameer have been featured on our fashion special issue’s cover, for it’s not about what gender you belong to, or what you identify with, but how you define yourself. Siddharth has been a follower of Gender Fluidity and inclusivity long before it was popularised. “I used to wear accessories that were generally tagged as something only girls wore. But I used to feel very stylish when I used to wear it, so I did. My style has changed a lot since then though.”

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Ketaki, who rose to fame with the music video ‘Thirayi’, said “We see the discrimination on a day to day basis, be it against women, men or transgenders. So I think it’s a very good topic, and I’m glad that I’m a part of this.” Anjali, who is the first transwoman who’s acted opposite one of the biggest names in the Malayalam Industry. She was inspired by Kaleekal’s clothing line, and said “ I was glad to see that the lines were blurring and the clothing was not stereotyped.”

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Throughout the shoot, the team was very clear on what they wanted to focus on and how they wanted to portray it. There was a thought to be expressed, after all. Without careful expression, it could get lost in the glamour of the shoot. Each shot was clicked with movement in mind. The frames are caught in mid-movement to express the uninhibited self usually constrained by attire. Clothing that focused on fluidity was expressed through the freedom of movement. There is a free flow of thought, a liquid momentum as we go through the pages. Again, freedom of movement becomes apparent in the layout as well, with overlayed images showing the transition from one pose to another. One is left in wonder at the collective efforts of the whole team to portray a thought, be it in attire, the shots clicked, or in the final outcome in print.

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We thought it was high time to blur the lines of gender discrimination and work towards a positive approach, where men, women or people of any other gender are not stereotyped for who they are born as, or who they choose to be for the rest of their lives.

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Models: Anjali Ameer, Ketaki Narayan, Siddharth Menon
Photographer: Jinson Abraham
Designer Label: KALEEKAL
Styling: Lakshmi Babu
Makeup & Hair Styling: Santosh Kumar
Photography Assistants: Aghil Menon, Deepu G S, Shan S H
Styling Assistants: Teresa Boban, Sangeeth Vempala
Retouch: Jemini Ghosh, Nimal Neeraj
Production: FWD Media

Digital version: https://goo.gl/HGTOLN

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Cover Story

Insta – Glam : Best Fashion from Aparna Thomas

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Instagram has developed into a busy runway in the fast-paced world of fashion, where influencers like Aparna Thomas showcase their own looks, creating trends and motivating millions of others. Aparna Thomas has enthralled audiences with her varied and imaginative ensembles thanks to her outstanding taste and passion for fashion. Let’s delve into some of her best fashion looks that have left a lasting impression on fashion enthusiasts around the globe.

Effortless Glamour

Aparna Thomas looks sophisticated and alluring in this beautiful rainbow saree by Fitting Room Couture, styled by talented Sabarinath. Her look as completed by jewels from Pure Allure

Shimmer Glam

How to add a touch of glamour to any occasion without sacrificing comfort or style, just add some Shimmer. Aparna looks gorgeous  in the stunning golden sequined flared dress by D’Roz for Christmas theme shoot.

Chic Style

Aparna looks casual chic with urban sophistication with her street style look in this green dress by Urbanic

Regal Beauty

Aparna is a natural at stealing the show; she looks magnificent in her exquisite blue saree that Sabarinath styled. The saree comes from Luxurion World. 

Mythical Magic

Aparna looks stunning in an embellished saree by T & M Signature thanks to her excellent sense of style. The blouse features soft and elegant hues with delicate foliate motifs and elaborate crisscross patterns. The MOD Signature jewels completed the entire look. 

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Cover Story

Explore the Hidden Gems: Must-Visit Places on Lakshadweep

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Lakshadweep, meaning “a hundred thousand islands” in Sanskrit, is a mesmerizing archipelago nestled in the Arabian Sea. With its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life, Lakshadweep is a paradise for travelers seeking serenity and natural beauty. Lakshadweep offers activities for all types of visitors, including nature lovers, water sports enthusiasts, and beach bums. These are the top  activities to do in Lakshadweep when visiting.

The only ways to get to Lakshadweep are by air or boat. There are frequent flights from Kochi and Bangalore to the single airport, which is located on Agatti Island. Another option is to travel by ferry from Kochi, which takes between 18 to 20 hours. To enter Lakshadweep, visitors must get a special permit, which can be obtained online or through the tourism department of Lakshadweep. When the weather is nice and sunny, from October to March is the ideal time to visit Lakshadweep. Since there aren’t many resorts or guesthouses in Lakshadweep, it’s crucial to reserve your lodging well in advance.

Agatti Island:

Agatti, the gateway to Lakshadweep, welcomes you with its breathtaking beauty. The island boasts stunning coral reefs, making it a haven for snorkelers and divers. Take a stroll along the shimmering white sands or indulge in water sports like kayaking and windsurfing. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness the spectacular sunset painting the sky in hues of orange and pink.

Minicoy Island:

Experience the rich cultural heritage of Lakshadweep on Minicoy Island. The island is renowned for its traditional Maldivian-influenced culture, evident in its architecture, cuisine, and customs. Explore the charming villages adorned with colorful houses and visit the iconic Lighthouse built by the British. Don’t miss the chance to savor authentic Maldivian cuisine and witness captivating cultural performances.

Kadmat Island:

For those craving solitude and tranquility, Kadmat Island is the perfect escape. This serene island is renowned for its untouched beaches fringed with swaying palms. Dive into the azure waters to explore the vibrant marine life teeming with colorful fish and coral formations. Relax under the shade of coconut trees and savor fresh seafood delicacies served by local vendors.

Amini Beach:

If you’re searching for quiet tourist destinations in Lakshadweep, Amini Beach is a great choice. This beach is well-known on Amini Island because of its coral sandstone surface. Adventure sports like as snorkelling, scuba diving, reef walking, and kayaking are available for you to try. Amini Beach is a great place to unwind and spend the day drinking cocktails and soaking up the sun.

Bangaram Island:

Dubbed as the jewel of Lakshadweep, Bangaram Island is a postcard-perfect destination. With its powdery white sands and emerald lagoons, it’s a paradise for beach lovers. Spend your days basking in the sun, snorkeling amidst the coral gardens, or simply unwinding in a hammock under the shade of a palm tree. Indulge in a romantic beach picnic as you watch the stars illuminate the night sky.

Lakshadweep beckons travelers with its pristine beauty, diverse marine life, and warm hospitality. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, the islands offer a myriad of experiences to cherish. Explore these must-visit places on Lakshadweep and create memories that will last a lifetime.

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Beauty

Kiara Advani’s Soft Glam Makeup Look

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Kiara Advani is proof that a look may be beautiful without always requiring intense contouring and layers of makeup. The actor from Satyaprem ki Katha has a natural, luminous, and unquestionably head-turning approach to soft makeup that is worth emulating. Lekha Gupta, her makeup artist, created the ideal mix between a clean, glowing complexion and a subtle brown smoky eye. Whether it’s for her big day or multiple red carpet appearances, the actor has a reputation for doing minimalist makeup flawlessly.

Kiara Advani, wearing a body-hugging pink gown by Tran Hung, was spotted having a pink moment that was enhanced by her bold beauty appearance. Her face was defined by the delicately bronzed cheeks, her glossy nude lips completed the ensemble, and her gently smudged out makeup accentuated the shape of her eyes.

Lekha Gupta, the makeup artist, accentuated Advani’s eyes by using mascara to lend drama to the lashes. She gave Advani’s skin a dewy base and then defined the cheekbones with a warm, peachy bronzer. Her lips were covered in a glossy lip gloss that complemented the brightness of her pink costume, and her brows were nicely shaped and filled in. In terms of hair, the actor sported a glossy, blow-dried mane that had a contemporary centre part to complete the symmetry of the ensemble.

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