Bungalow 8's Store: An Emblem of Rustic Chic

June 15, 2012

The d?cor of Bungalow 8?s retail store is almost as famous as the brand itself. The atmosphere of their stores is certainly of luxury, but of a refined and rustic kind. Add in the traditional Indian influences, and it is not hard to see why Bungalow 8 has gained such attention for their stores. The d?cor of Bungalow 8?s retail store is almost as famous as the brand itself. The...

Read More

Behind the Label | Bungalow 8

June 15, 2012

Founded by Maithili Ahluwalia in 2003, Bungalow 8 has been regarded as a retail enigma. The brand, named for the address at which Maithili grew up, is suited for the individualist. The Bungalow 8 philosophy is to create products that combine opposites in an effortless harmony. From the global product selection to the lived-in atmosphere of their retail stores, there is no wonder why Bungalow 8 has been regarded so highly in India?s fashion world.

 

Founded by Maithili Ahluwalia in 2003, Bungalow 8 has been regarded as a retail enigma. The brand, named for the address at which Maithili grew up, is suited for the individualist. The Bungalow 8 philosophy is to create products that combine opposites in an effortless harmony. They have the confidence to do what is unexpected, mixing vintage with modern, traditional craft with post-modern design and Indian-ness with global-ness.

 

 

 

 

By ?Indian-ness,? they do not mean ?kitschy? and ?kurti.? In fact, they deliberately strive to make products that transcend that theme. Instead, the Bungalow 8 products are mature and developed expressions of Indian culture, offering a refined and renewed version of products people have come to perceive as traditionally Indian. They are unembellished yet detailed, couture yet craft, and reasonable yet quality conscious. From the global product selection to the lived-in atmosphere of their retail stores, there is no wonder why Bungalow 8 has been regarded so highly in India?s fashion world.

 

 

 

 

 

How would you describe the overall style of the collection?

Bungalow 8 has always been about blending an Indian and Global sensibility to create designs rooted in India but with an international appeal that make them stand out in Paris as much as they do in Mumbai.

 

 

 

 

 

 

What inspired you to start your own collection in addition to running and buying for your own store?

 

 

Bungalow 8 has always been about unique and unconventional finds that blend an Indian and Global sensibility - I didnt feel that this aesthetic was adequately represented in the fashion arena.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Where do you find inspiration for your collections? 

 

 

Everywhere - my eyes are always peeled.

 

 

 

What do you find the most inspiring destination in the world?

 

 

I would have to say India because it is an infinite journey of discovery if you are willing to be completely open. You need several life times to experience it all, that's why we believe in reincarnation.

 

 

 

 

 

How would you describe your own personal style and how is it reflected in your new collection? 

 

 

I always find these questions difficult to answer because I never think too much about style - but I hope it can be described as effortless, fearless and individualistic. I believe strongly in the imperfection of perfection.

 

 

 

 

 

 

What is one of the best shopping finds you?ve had in your travels?

 

 

My recent ikat kaftan from kazakhastan as I had a very prominent French lady follow me from the airport to the hotel to buy it off me. 

 

 

 

Globetrotter | Maithili Ahluwalia

June 14, 2012

Maithili Ahluwalia has certainly foraged her own distinct presence in Mumbai. A woman with fastidious taste, Maithili founded Bungalow 8 as a place to share the collection of hand-picked items she has spent her life curating. Maithili established Bungalow 8 in 2003, and was regarded as avant garde, gaining an immediate reputation of refined luxury. Maithili?s philosophy is minimalist with a focus on overturning the ?bling and embellishments? that India...

Read More

Hotel Secrets | RAAS Hotel, Jodhpur

June 12, 2012

RAAS Hotel is the calm within the storm. Located in the heart of Jodhpur, a city of colorful clamor and steeped in tradition, the serene modernity of RAAS is an Indian oasis.   The RAAS Hotel is the calm within the storm. Located in the heart of Jodhpur, a city of colorful clamor and steeped in tradition, the serene modernity of RAAS is an Indian oasis.        ...

Read More

City Secrets | Nilaya Hermitage, Goa

June 11, 2012

Nilaya Hermitage is located in Goa, India?s tiny treasure ? a state defined by its beautiful beaches, hippie vibes and Portuguese influence. It is no wonder why it draws a posh and international crowd including celebrities such as Kate Moss, Jade Jagger and Peter Lindbergh. Drawing from cosmic inspiration, each room is individually designed with different themes including moon, star, water and air. Founded by ex-Parisian fashion stylist Claudia Derain...

Read More

Final Edit Sale | Style Inspiration

June 07, 2012

Our Final Edit Sale may be items from seasons passed, but they are just as fabulous today as they were when they first arrived. To stimulate your stylish senses, we picked out some of our favorite products that inspire L-atitude looks. Our Final Edit collection includes pieces from Halston Heritage, Thakoon, Chako, Maru and many others - and they're up to 80% off. Upgrade to first class by signing up...

Read More

Globetrotter | Tara Matthews

June 06, 2012

Tara Matthews? extensive world travels are reflected in her clamored-for swimwear line, with vibrant color palettes and intricate details revealing inspiration from exotic destinations across the globe. With a true understanding of the jet set lifestyle, Tara?s collection is made for the woman who wants both fashionable luxury and functional, flattering comfort ? a balance she herself has perfected in her own life of style and travel. With her eponymous...

Read More

City Secrets | Sardinia

June 04, 2012

Known for its picturesque beaches and exquisite cibo, Sardinia is Italy's answer to the Grecian Islands and the south of France. Frequented by the world's elite from the Saudi Royal Family to the Missoni family, Sardinia is truly a national treasure. Known for its picturesque beaches and exquisite cibo, Sardinia is Italy's answer to the Grecian Islands and the south of France. Frequented by the world's elite from the Saudi...

Read More

Private Islands

June 04, 2012

Most likely shopping around for your own private island isn?t as close to your mind as designing your dream apartment because, like most of us, your bank account won?t allow it. But as is the case with anything out of reach, island ownership is an indicator of wealth and high society. Most likely shopping around for your own private island isn?t as close to your mind as designing your dream...

Read More

FINAL EDIT SALE

June 03, 2012

Final Edit Sale! Become a member and upgrade to first class! Get up to 80% off past season collections! Snag serious discounts on designer threads!  L-atitude is offering great deals- like up to 80% off on labels like Halston Heritage, Kimberly Ovtiz and Thakoon!      SHOP OUR MEMBERS ONLY FINAL EDIT SALE! Click here and start shopping!

Read More