'péro' creates simple clothing, using indigenous skills and knowledge of ancient textiles and clothing traditions from India and across the world. 'péro' means 'to wear' in Marwari, and garments are inspired by clothing and local dressing styles from the remotest of areas.

'péro' recreates these for the modern consumer seeking a similar aesthetic, wanting ease, comfort and pleasure in their clothes.

Predominantly red and white, the current line incorporates various traditional skills like ikat and natural dyed khadi from Andhra Pradesh, bandhani from Kutch, Gujarat, woven checks and stripes from Chanderi and Maheshwar, Madhya Pradesh.The highlights of this season's line are 'gamocha' from Assam and 'telia rumals' or 'asia rumals' from Andhra Pradesh. The history of these textiles is as enchanting as the fabric itself.

Kishmish

Nikki Kalia and Rekha Bhatia’s label Kishmish was created with the intent to design easy, comfort-oriented clothing with a simple, stylish aesthetic. Each piece is exquisitely crafted with attention to cut and detail. The clothes use made from natural, hand woven, and hand block printed fabric. Pre - washed cotton, silk and linen ensures softness to each garment. In a world over whelmed by technology Kishmish aims to preserve the tradition of hand made textiles and finely tailored clothing. These products support the livelihood of rural Indian craftsmen.

Events @ Full Circle

Travel Plans with the Gantzers: 19 March 2010

Hugh and Colleen Gantzer engaged with Akhila Shrikant in a conversation which had plenty of tips and clues for an audience intent on going on their own journeys to exotic destinations. The hugely traveled couple who have written 17 books on travel to date, spoke about rafting in the Kalli River at Rishikesh, underwater walking in Mauritius , parasailing in the Salon Valley in Himachal, visiting the Red Flute Caves of China, Dune Dashing in Dubai, fishing and trekking in Beemashari, Cauvery, semi-submersible diving at the Great Barrier Reef and Seychelles , Cable Car trips in Switzerland and more.

Stories in action! 27 March 2010

UK storyteller Craig Jenkins related stories from some of Tulika’s most popular books to an appreciative group of children. Part of the Live Book Tour – a multicultural collaboration between Tulika and Vayu Naidu Company that has had remarkable success in promoting Tulika’s books in schools and libraries across UK, Craig, an enormously entertaining storyteller was at his charismatic best, assisted by the spontaneous responses of his young audience.

The Truth About Tigers - A film by Shekar Dattatri: 2 April, 2010

The tiger, India’s National Animal, is disappearing at an alarming rate from our forests. Government estimates reveal that there may be fewer than 1500 left. Why have these charismatic predators declined so drastically? What exactly are the problems facing their conservation? And are there any solutions to the crisis? These and many other questions were answered in ‘The Truth about Tigers’ by award-winning wildlife filmmaker and conservationist, Shekar Dattatri. The film also provided useful pointers on how everyone can play a role in saving the iconic big cat.

Interacting with the audience after the screening, Shekar Dattatri brought out the nuances of conservation issues, in his typically direct and well-informed fashion.

Tulika Publications presents it's monthly book reading event called 'Our Myths'

Specially for children aged 8 years and above in Full Circle @ Chamiers on Saturday 23rd January at 5pm

Full Circle explores many different realms this season, getting you attuned to the end of one year and the beginning of another. Chart the meaningful moments of your life and its desires with visual clues from well-being cards, magical spell cards, healing cards, grace cards, Ask and It is Given cards, Enlightenment cards and many more. Pick your favourite foreign magazines from the latest issues we have in stock. We are beginning reading programmes specially for children at our store from December with Tulika Books. Here’s what your children can look forward to in January.

Vyasa’s Mahabharata This is a well known story of how Vyasa enlists the help of Ganesha in writing down the long and multi-layered epic that is the Mahabharata. Presented with lively humour and great affection, it shows the very recognizable human dilemmas faced by Vyasa and Ganesha, and enables a new generation of readers to connect to an old story. The delightful pictures add a whole new perspective.

Our Myths will be presented by Dr. S. Krishna Kumar, the artistic director and founder of Masquerade, which has been in existence for more than 15 years. He is also the founder of Masquerade Youth Theater (MYT) that works with and for children and teens as well as youth. KK, as he is known, has worked in more than 60 productions as a director and several performances as an actor. Since 2000 he has been working extensively with children, teens and youth. Many an artist from Chennai’s theatre in English has debuted with Masquerade, under KK.

Hanuman’s Ramayana Valmiki has barely put his pen down after completing his magnificent creation, the epic Ramayana, when he realizes he has competition. The sage Narad tells him that there is a better Ramayana, written by Hanuman. As the story of Hanuman’s Ramayana unfolds humorously and gently, the quirky illustrations based on the style of Mithila folk paintings tell their own story.

Our Myths will be presented by Dr. S. Krishna Kumar, the artistic director and founder of Masquerade, which has been in existence for more than 15 years. He is also the founder of Masquerade Youth Theater (MYT) that works with and for children and teens as well as youth. KK, as he is known, has worked in more than 60 productions as a director and several performances as an actor. Since 2000 he has been working extensively with children, teens and youth. Many an artist from Chennai’s theatre in English has debuted with Masquerade, under KK.

Launch of the Full Circle Book Shop at Chamiers

This July, the Full Circle Bookshop has opened its first branch outside of Delhi, in Chennai. Situated in the quaint 1950's art-deco bungalow of the Chamiers shop, the Full Circle bookstore is a welcome addition in Chennai, being the first of its kind. Chamiers is is much more than a shop. It provides the space and ambience for an eclectic mix of urban pastimes – whether this means special times with friends, enjoying a meal at the verdant Eco cafe, browsing for gifts, or now stepping into the Full Circle bookshop.

Full Circle enjoys a reputation of stocking the best collection of books in the country, independent and strong. All genres are very carefully selected, including fiction, non fiction, a wide range of art books and of course what Full Circle is best known for mind, body, spirit. The bookstores have expanded their section of literary fiction which is now given more importance and space, owing to a huge demand for authors such as Steinbeck, Waugh and Fitzgerald among others. The Bookshops ‘order on demand’ and ‘call back policy’ is well appreciated by visitors to the stores. Customers who want a particular title sourced can order their books at either of the branches and the books are sourced for them within a few days. The Full Circle Bookstore is also now accessible on the web at www.atfullcircle.com, which gives access to a huge section of online buyers. The philosophy is centered on the understanding that all customers are made to feel welcome and that their needs are attended to with the extremely competent staff. A unique feature of the Bookshops has been the personal recommendations that staff and readers are encouraged to make in terms of ‘must reads’. Books read by the staff or by regular customers are highlighted in each section so that other potential readers may become aware of what was read and enjoyed. The same model works for the extensive section of children’s books, where young readers put up their suggestions on ‘what to read’. The whole experience of entering a Full Circle bookstore is that of an ‘oasis’ – a get away from the daily routines of city life into a quite serene space that works on the ideals of compassion and being helpful.

The blend of books, music, café and gifts works well together in Chamiers, as there is a feeling of completeness that leaves people feeling fulfilled. The special section of gifts, though select in its choice, has its own clientele, with hand made stationery, aroma candles, herbal and organic products as well as beautifully hand painted Tibetan thangkas from Dharamshala that adorn the walls of the stores. Chamiers is a hub of social and cultural experience - a retreat that offers to the senses a blissful and wholesome home.

The Full Circle Bookshops are spaces of peace - celebrating the inner harmonious nature of humanity. The aim is to create this experince for all - through books, music, art and food for the soul and body. Our selection is therefore a reflection of this philosophy.

Payal Jain, Krishna Mehta and Sujata Sarowgi

Payal Jain Colors of Joy is synonymous with a life where we can celebrate every moment of our being. In a world full of violence, pain, anger and uncertainty, Payal Jain expresses joy through bright, vibrant colors and exciting silhouettes. This collection features elaborately draped and beautifully styled, free flowing, fluid dresses in varying lengths and silhouettes. The fabrics range from sheer georgettes to rich crepes to luxurious satins and hand woven silk jacquards. A vibrant palette of tangerine orange, viridian green, poster red, indigo blue, bright fuchsia, egg yellow, deep purple and ivory white complete this season's canvas. The prints have been inspired by old textile elements and juxtaposed on myriad textures. Folk patchwork, loose threads, summer meadows, floral motifs and overstitched prints speak of an emotional adventure. The silhouettes range from immaculately draped dresses of varying lengths, short boleros, paneled skirts, form-fitting blouses, caspian pants, wide palazzos and structured vests.

Krishna Mehta's Spring/Summer 09 collection is making an extended showing through August, reflecting sunrise in the desert sands, a timeless collection. Clothes that give a joyful and colorful twist to simple sculpted lines and evocative, chic silhouettes, in an artist's palette of Poster Red, Cobalt Blue, Egg Yellow, Viridian Green, Iridescent Orange and Violet, against deepest dark contrasts. Setting the tone for a dynamic yet traditional feel, the woven silk Ikats, luminous chiffons and georgettes, meet in geometric studied compositions with beads, crystals, sequins and the woven gota embroidery, projecting an essential, calm and determined femininity.

The forte of Sujata Sarowgi is getting sarees handwoven using contemporary motifs and unusual weaves like 2/2 twill. huck-back ,mockleno in natural fibres cultivated silk-eri ,munga, mulberry, tussar dupione on indigenous looms in the outskirts of Kolkata and Indore. 'Kantha' another traditional thrift craft of quilting is being promoted as couture embellishment with contemporary designs, myriad colours and play of texture.. STITCH ART- a new range of textiles.. which are like art pieces.(sarees / scarves / dupattas.)

Amethyst Sale

Renu Bothra’s collection which is showcased as ‘You’ is a return to a straightened look and dark sensuality with mysterious night-time shadows and hints of blacks that glints. The trend is both slim fitted, controlled and elegant.

Sunita Shankar established her label “Sunita Shanker” in 1996. She has shown her collections in various parts of the world – Japan, Hong Kong, Bangkok, Singapore, London, etc and has also been retailing from premier stores in the country. Her design philosophy is strongly influenced by traditional crafts. Her forte is a simple, clean, uncluttered look, layered yet linear, exploring the various aspects of diaphanous and opaqueness of the fabrics.

Sonam Dubal launched Sanskar in 1999. His mixed cultural background may be considered instrumental in creating his signature style, which sensitively fuses Eastern traditions with western aesthetics. ‘Sanskar’ has over time found home with eminent stores both nationally and internationally, in London, Geneva, Spain, Melbourne and Sydney.

Tarun Tahiliani founded his design studio in 1990.His distinctive signature has evolved as a fusion of textile detail,refined luxury,and meticulous tailoring.He creates couture,diffusion,pret-a-porter and accessory lines,which are Indian in sensibility,yet international in their appeal.

Chamiers Anniversary Fashion Show

The fashion event show-cased some of the later and forthcoming collections of Anokhi and Lokessh Ahuja. Anokhi’s clothes were accessorized by Amrapali, the only Indian Jewellery designers to present their collection in Fashion weeks of Milan and New York.

The sarees in the first sequence were inspired by traditional Indian and Balinese prints, block printed on silks and chiffons to give a soft and diaphanous feel. Following this were crinkled skirts in cotton voile twisted tightly to give its crinkled texture. They were in shades of green, vivid pink, plum & orange. Ideal to dress it up as an evening look with gold/silver jewellery and sparkly sandals.

The second sequence showcased 15 pieces of Lokessh Ahuja’s latest collection of linen jackets, formal blazers, trousers and shirts. It was very well received as the models look spiffy and sharp.

The third sequence had clothes from Anokhi again. Lycra and cotton trousers were worn with halter tops, bright red corduroy and quilted silk long jackets. The kurtas were block printed in natural rust & rich turquoise shades, their slimming, tailored style being a contemporary take on the traditional angarkha and anarkali styles.

The fourth sequence had tiny tots parading in the latest Anokhi’s children’s range side by side with the men’s collection of Chinese collar and fitted full sleeve shirts in summery prints and long kurtas.

The last sequence on the ramp highlighted some outfits from the forthcoming women’s range in Anokhi. A Ikat Ruby tiered skirt, Persia Peach sundress, rich yellow and coral geometric Deco Mango in a stylish Japanese dhoti, Windflower crossover blouse in rich turquoise and berry colours, Pomini, a paneled skirt with floral camisole and Indigo Lace, a smart double layered indigo Paisley worn as a dress or a kurta depending on the mood and weather.

At heart, Indian - Niki Mahajan’s prints

February brings Niki Mahajan’s prints and styles to Sundar Mahal. The Niki Mahajan label has a firm following since it first appeared on the Indian fashion scene over twenty years ago.

Niki has worked extensively with artisans and master craftsman from Rajasthan, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka, Kashmir, Bengal, Bihar and other parts of the country. Her designs project the true essence of Indian sensibilities, and specialty fabrics embellished with unique surface ornamentation, and great emphasis on form and fit have become her signature style. Specially captivating are the block prints that she has discovered and designed after painstaking research, incorporating traditional methods like bandhani and shibori.

Stark, Simple, Stunning

Aneeth Arora and Chinar Farooqui’s label ‘gaba’, known for creating simple clothing inspired by the local dressing styles that one comes across in remote corners of India brings a different buzz to Sundal Mahal all through the Chennai winter. ‘gaba’ presents styles for the modern consumer who seek ease, comfort and pleasure in their clothes.

Aneeth and Chinar are textile graduates from the National Institute of Design, Ahmedabad, and ' gaba' is a Marwari word for clothing used by the local people of Rajasthan.

The present collection is a celebration of the humble 'kala-safed' or black and white.
The woven and dyed textiles for this range have been developed, in close association with weavers from Chanderi, Maheshwar and Bengal, and tie-dye craftsmen from Kachchh, and women from villages around Delhi. Silhouettes follow lines seen in various local garments from Western India. ‘Kala-safed’ brings an appreciation of pattern, color and form that one comes across in day to day life. A checkered gamchhaa on a street vendor's head or a patterned poncha of a salwar, finds expression in clothes that are contemporary, yet firmly rooted in India’s timeless traditions. These clothes owe their impact to the delight they produce in the senses and mind of the wearer and beholder.

Charms of Sundar Mahal

Not least of the charms of Sundar Mahal is its excellent location, making Amethyst most conveniently accessible on any of your forays around Mount Road, Alwarpet, Nungambakkam or elsewhere. What makes the trip especially worthwhile is the number of ways you can savour what is on offer. You could bite into bruschetta or dip into the delectable pear and blue cheese salad, slip on an iridescent stole or browse a selection of bags, make yourself or a friend the most intriguing of floral arrangements...

There are shops and there are stores, and then there is Amethyst.

Amethyst
Sundar Mahal, 14, Padmavathi Road, Gopalapuram, Chennai 600 086.
Phone: 044 28351627/2835191

Madhu Jain’s Collection

Madhu Jain’s presents a collection inspired by India's greatest traditions sourced from master artisans all around the country, fluently parleyed into elegant contemporary fashion wear that represents a new classic chic. Employing a variety of fascinating weaves and embellishment techniques, Swadeshi style comes alive in graceful garments whose color, form and flow explore and embrace our natural sensibilities and contours.

Embodying the best of Indian heritage, these unique creations artfully crafted from Khadi and Bamboo textiles reveal delightful detail plucked even from the realms of art and poetry. Rich handwoven weaves bursting with colour flaunt ancient embroidery techniques like Aher, Banni and Suf. The natural fabric is highlighted with using the kalamkari craft tecnique in artworks ranging in style from the miniature paintings of the Pahari and Basoli tribes of Jammu to Raja Ravi Varma's glorious depictions of Indian mythology.

Saris woven in the Upadas, Kalamkari or Ikkats style from Andhra Pradesh are intricately embroidered with Kantha work from West Bengal. Rajasthan's Kota textile mingles with Lucknow's Chikankari in a rich profusion of shawls and throws. Pakistani Gota is bejeweled with Kalamkari motifs to dazzle the eye. Here is a collection that is truly a combination of fashion and art.

Latha Puttanna's February 2008 Collection

Latha Puttanna's collection of traditional hand woven silks embellished with neat and intricate embroidery, will be on sale in Amethyst this December and January. Hand embroidered silk and georgette sarees, Mughal style kurta-churidar sets, kurtis, tunics and skirts that combine the traditional with the contemporary in Latha's trademark style provide tempting choices for the festive season.

This Bangalore based designer, with a finely honed sensibility that brings out the best of heritage craftsmanship styled to modern tastes, gives you the chance to bid a graceful farewell to 2007 and a classy welcome to 2008.

Anuradha's Vakil's Winter 2007 Collection

Amethyst was home to an exhibition of Anuradha Vakil's winter 2007 collection till the middle of October. A selection of clothes from this collection continues to be available for the festive season. This features handcrafted silks in rich colours, glowing like jewels, with varied textures, from coarse khadi-like silks to shimmering, sensuous fabrics. Old textiles, lovingly restored, have been juxtaposed with the contemporary. Simplicity of styling is a common thread running through the entire collection. Above all, the mood is understatement and balance.

Drawing heavily from two diverse textile techniques, this collection uses vegetable dye prints in bagh tradition and kalabattun embroideries in silver and gold. Anuradha has found a contemporary design vocabulary within each craft, making it appealing to modern sensibilities while retaining the soul of the craft.