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Unfiltered Lifestyle Blog By Smriti Notani

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Real Girl Loves: My Favourite Prints!

March 1, 2016 By: RealGirl5 Comments

I always thought of myself as a solids kind of girl. Not solid girl (well, that too) but solids as in flat colours as opposed to busy prints. But before I knew it I found myself getting drawn to all sorts of prints, especially the quirky ones. I’ve realized they make me happy and have the power to cheer me up instantly. Not to mention they are major conversation starters. They make you stand out from the crowd and add that little something to your home, wardrobe, and life. I guess if we were on Indian Idol, you’d call that the X Factor. Thank God we aren’t though, there’s no way I’m letting Anu Malik near any of my personal belongings. He’d shout at them all, make them feel awful about their existence, and then proceed to discussions about himself. Umm, anyway, so I was saying? Ya…these are all the prints I’m loving currently!

The Crazy Cushions

When I moved into my current house, I was so damn worried it won’t have my vibe. Since it’s rented, there’s only so much I could change around the house. But I’ve found a way to add happy touches in every nook and corner. For instance, these cushions were a love at first sight kind of story. I bought them (the covers and fillers both) from a really cute, small store at Pali Naka (next to Pali Village Cafe) in Bandra (Bombay). I used to see that store every time I passed bustling Pali Market, but one day I finally went and checked it out. It has really cool cushion covers and bolsters and huge floor cushions too. If you like these, you must check it out. I deliberately went in for three different prints instead of matching them because I thought it looks funky like that. Do you agree?

Real Girl Loves Prints

Real Girl Loves Prints

Jutti Love

Okay, so I’ve been lusting after floral Juttis for a while now. I never went ahead and bought a pair because I was afraid of two things: 1) That the trend will last a hot minute and then just disappear. 2) I will not end up wearing them as much. So imagine my happiness when recently a close friend got married, and these were the giveaways at her Mehendi. What a cool idea no? For me it was instant love, and I stared at the basket for a good ten minutes just deciding which one to go with. I really liked this particular one and recently wore it with a mint green lace top and jeans. Luckily, I was wrong about the trend because it definitely seems like it’s here to stay!

Real Girl Loves Prints

 

Of Vintage Boxes

This vanity box was a wedding present and a super functional one at that. I love the print – it’s so Parisian and vintage and classy all at once. You know the best part? I’ve filled it to the brim with all sorts of things like Nail Polishes and earrings and no one would even know. It looks like home decor but it’s excellent for storage. The handle is a God sent making it really easy for me to travel with it too.

Real Girl Loves Prints

Real Girl Loves Prints

The luxury of a lap tray

Okay, confession: I wasn’t sure I’d actually use, let alone get obsessed with, this item – the lap tray. None the less, when I moved into this house we were generously gifted two lap trays. [The concept is that one side is hard and solves the purpose of a tray while the other is a soft cushion you can keep on yourself] Seeing the India Circus packaging only made me super excited. I’ve been a fan of the brand for as long as I can remember so I was stoked to see what’s inside. And with both the prints, it was instant love! In fact, to date I don’t know which one I like more. But the most amazing thing is just how much I use these trays. When I’m sitting on the couch with a big mug of coffee and a bowl of chips right in my lap, I marvel at the invention that is a lap tray. It’s one of those things you never realized you needed till you actually got around to using one!

Real Girl Loves Prints

Laptop Lovin’

For a while now I’ve been needing a laptop bag and have been procrastinating buying one. Just recently Myntra had a huge sale and I got around to checking for laptop bags. I totally loved the funky print on this bag by House Of Tara. Plus, it was on discount so I revved up my meter and ‘auto’matically hit the Buy Now button. What do you think of it? Good move?

Real Girl Loves Prints

Coffeeholics Anonymous

How can we talk of funky prints and not include Chumbak, right? Don’t worry…we are getting there! Those who know me know there’s nothing more important to me in this world than my coffee! So naturally, when the boy and I moved…instead of looking at buying important things…like furniture, for instance, I was like “OOOOOOHH, you know what we *really* need? Nice new coffee mugs!” And I absolutely adore these ones because they have our initials on them. Also, it worked out perfectly because S is all girly with pinks and purples while K is more boyish with browns and such. Or wait, am I just imagining things? I could be.

Real Girl Loves Prints

Bagging the Owl Trend

Okay, okay…I know The Owl Trend is a bit overdone but then, this bag isn’t new. I bought it at some point in 2014 and it’s been with me on all my travels ever since. Besides, did you know those are cats? Yeah, I’m not sure about that either. But the good folks over at Chumbak definitely think so. This is actually a laptop bag but I tend to use it as a general backpack and still love it even though it’s a bit tattered from all the travels. Luckily, the colours are so bright and happy, that you tend to not notice that at all; no?

Real Girl Loves Prints

The Blue Blanket Theory

In case you didn’t know, I recently had a lovely holiday in Udaipur (Click here to read all about it). This trip wasn’t about shopping at all and surprisingly I was happy to skip on that too. Luckily though, as part of one of our sightseeing tours we walked into the official Rajasthan Tourism museum (or some such government recognized body) which also sells things made locally. I’m in love with all things Rajasthani anyway and couldn’t resist picking up this quilt. Not only am I in love with it’s cool blue tones (which faded by the way because I’m an idiot and tried to wash it) but I also love the fact that it’s made in the forest area in Udaipur with cotton and bamboo fibres. It is said that these kinds of blankets keep you warm in the winter and cool in the summer. I’m yet to test that theory. But just as I’ve been loving quirky prints I’m also starting to fall for ethnic ones, right from the one on this blanket to phulkari to leheriya to batik. Let’s see where this obsession goes, perhaps straight onto the blog if it doesn’t die down soon. Well, that’s my guess anyway. 🙂

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Let me know what you thought of my Print-ess Diaries! 😀 (Mighty pleased with myself because of that silly pun!)  If you like it, perhaps, I’ll do more posts like that. If you thought it sucked, that’s fair enough too. I’m no designer, there is no technical basis to liking these prints. They just make my heart happy, and as you already know, I find no reason to deny my heart the simple pleasures of life. 🙂 Until next time, stay quirky!

 

 

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Real Girl Confessions

February 20, 2016 By: RealGirl5 Comments

You know you’re a real blogger when your titles start to become more and more click-bait, amirite? Truth is; I really thought I should do a post that lets you know a little more about me than you do at the moment. I mean sure it’s always nice to read about my travels or when I have something funny to say – or so I will take the liberty to believe. But those stories don’t always help you get to know me. So you can call ‘em confessions or just random facts or trivia but I think it’s time we got better acquainted. Here goes nothing:

I think my secret dream career has always been interior design.

I *heart* design. As a child too I’d find a way to get my hands on expensive design magazines. Yes, there was no internet back then. Yes, I’m that old. But even now I can spend and by spend I mean waste hours looking at decor (and design) ideas on Pinterest. Someday though I will put this little secret ambition to good use and design my own work space. Someday 🙂

Office Goals

Found this on Pinterest. It has Real Girl written all over it, don’t you think?

 

Kuch Kuch Hota Hai was my favourite movie.

Oh, who am I kidding? It still is! But growing up, I hung onto every single word in that movie. I totally believed pyaar dosti hai and was obsessed with the idea of falling in love with my best friend. Only problem? I was in a Girl’s Convent school and there were no boys. Totally thought I’ll end up alone. I love you to bits KJo, but no thank you for that one!

Kuch Kuch Hota Hai

 

Nun-the-less

Speaking of Convent schools and love, I also had a phase where I thought I’d grow up and become a nun. Oh, don’t judge me! If you went to a Convent school, I’m sure you’ve been there too. Well anyway, so much for that!

Joke Of The Century

 

I *might* just be the least domesticated person on the planet!

I can’t cook to save my life. I’m one of those people who were legit affected when Maggi was banned. And when it came back, I said a little prayer in gratitude. I’m also extremely messy. My cupboard is always dirty. I’m not sure I understand the concept of ‘folding’. Basically, I shouldn’t be allowed to adult. I know nothing about it…clearly.

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I hear ya buddy!

 

I can’t understand numbers

Now, I don’t mean to offend anyone with a learning disability and I’m not saying this with certainty – but I have a strong feeling I have (at least a mild case of) dyscalculia. Look it up, it’s a real thing. It’s like dyslexia but with numbers. Throw numbers at me and I feel the same way as young Eenu did in Taare Zameen Par. And even though you may think it’s funny (I laugh at myself too), but I’m pretty sure it’s a legit problem.

Taare Zameen Par

 

I’m NOT a morning person.

And that’s putting it mildly. I’d ban them on the whole if I could. Seriously though, why must we do anything in the morning?! It’s exhausting to even talk about this. I just…no…mornings…can’t do…hate…. *Zzzzzz*

 

Cant do mornings

 

Of unbroken records

I can’t seem to recall ever leaving a movie theatre during a movie – no matter how bad it was. Now according to me, this is a pretty effin awesome record to have and I have no intention of breaking it. I’m so proud of myself for this (as if it’s some important Guinness Book of World Records) that my poor best friend has had to endure so many crappy movies because I just refuse to get up once inside a theatre. Also, because I’ve sat through so many crappy movies…my threshold for crappy movies is extremely high. Please note the pride in my tone of voice. What can I say? India’s Got Talent!

Proud of my dumb achievement

 

Make up Tutorials!

It’s so silly but it’s like I’ve suddenly discovered something magical you can apply on your face! I’ve newly gotten obsessed with makeup…something I couldn’t even be bothered with until a few years ago. I used to always make do with Kajal and lip balm. (And for all you know this is just a phase and I go back to that shortly.) But this one’s a real confession: I just bought concealer for the first time in my life! Don’t worry, I’m as amused at myself as you probably are. Along with the fascination for makeup products, I’m currently loving make up tutorials. I like watching Zoella and Akriti Sachdev on YouTube. Check them out, they’re really good!

Yay for Make-Up!

 

And that’s it for now. I *really* think that’s enough embarrassment for one day. Do let me know if this was a completely pointless post and I should never attempt such a thing again. Or on the other hand, if you liked these little insights into my life or found them entertaining. I could totally do more editions of #RealGirlConfessions – so let me know either way, okay? Thanks for reading! 🙂

 

GIF Courtesy: tumblr, gifsec

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Real Girl: The Wedding Diaries

February 8, 2016 By: RealGirl8 Comments

It was a cold Sunday morning in February (Bombay standards, at least) and I was wide awake – miracles never cease, do they? Not only was I awake, I was actually pretty calm and put together. I was happy. And that’s honestly what every bride should feel on her wedding day.

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The ceremony was in the Gurudwara, a traditional Anand Karaj. We wanted to keep it simple and meaningful no matter what style of wedding and venue we chose. We debated many options while planning the wedding. Being Sindhi, I pray to Guru Nanak and though not overtly religious; the Gurudwara has always felt most peaceful to me. My husband is Gujarati and is largely agnostic. He’d happily have a civil wedding if given a choice. We were sure we didn’t want a noisy affair where all our guests are chewing loudly on all the food while we are taking the holy Pheras in some non-descript corner of the hall. We got lucky – both sets of parents didn’t care what we finally chose as long as it made us happy.

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The principle of the Sikh wedding (Anand Karaj) is based on equality. Between male and female; and subsequently between husband and wife. This really appealed to me. It’s what I always wanted from my marriage. It had to be a give and take. It had to be a two way street. Even though we had been together for almost a decade before we got married, and I knew I was extremely lucky – I was marrying my best friend. I still had this niggling fear that marriage would change the equilibrium of our relationship. Did it, though?

It’s been one year to that beautiful morning in February. ONE-WHOLE-YEAR. Wow. Let’s give my brain a moment while it processes this information, okay?

Yup, so it’s been a year and it has indeed been a ride of a lifetime. I won’t lie to you. Life as you know it; does change! This change can be super scary but it can also be pretty frickin’ amazing. You now have two families and double the social commitments. You have more friends and more plans that you just have to be at. But most importantly, you have each other to come home to every-single-day. You have a steady date 365 days a year. You have someone to fuss over you even if you’re running just a slight temperature. You have a travel companion. You have a perpetual date to all social occasions (can’t even begin to explain what an advantage that can be).

And if you’re as lucky as me (I really hope you are!) you have someone who just gets you. Who sees through your soul. Who pushes you to excel. Who laughs at all your jokes – even the not so funny ones. (Come on, we all know that’s the dream!) Who makes you the most amazing coffee in the world. Who lets you whine when it’s the need of the hour. Who doesn’t believe some things are just a ‘woman’s job’. Who contributes. Who partakes. Who just happens to be your better half. Who completes your world.

Thank you husband (sometimes that word still amuses me) but I am not a cynic anymore and it’s because of the love and care you bring to this marriage. I may still be a raging feminist – but that doesn’t stop me from loving the fact that I am, in fact, married. You’re my partner in every sense of the word. And I may not credit you enough, but it takes a Real Man to be with a Real Girl like me. 😉

And given a chance I’d do it all again with a smile on my face and the same feeling of contentment in my heart- even if it’s in the morning; again.

 

Happy Anniversary!

 

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Photo Courtesy: www.amogh.in

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Welcome to Real Girl

February 3, 2016 By: RealGirl2 Comments

Hi, welcome to my blog!

I’m assuming you are new. That would totally make sense, since this blog is new.

I wish I had something smart to say right now so you’d read and throw your head back and laugh like those women in television ads who seem perfectly content with life. If you found me funny I guess you’d think I was endearing and I know you’d come back for more.

But the truth is, I can’t ensure that. All I can wish for is that you read it and perhaps give me another chance soon enough. Just as with every new role in our lives, I hope to grow into that of a self assured blogger.

For now all you get is: awkward, and not-so-great in parts, and honest, and real. Oh, that’s one thing I promise you. You’ll always get real. 🙂

Thank you for taking the time out to read this. Welcome to the Real Girl Family.

Hope you enjoy my blog. Happy exploring!

 

Gif Courtesy: tumblr

Gif Courtesy: tumblr

 

These Are A Few Of My Favourite Things!

February 3, 2016 By: RealGirl2 Comments

I want to start doing these proper ‘favourite list’ things soon. Like maybe monthly or something. You know, because I’m a blogger and all now, sooo, yeah. *Flips hair*

Anyway, when I learn to write and click like all the legit bloggers out there, you’ll get a proper list of favourite things. For now you have to make do with my randomness.

Here goes nothing:

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I may or may not have been gifted this Guess wallet by someone special for an uber special occasion. *blushes same shade of pink as wallet*

Isn’t it gorg?

 

 

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This stunning ring I found at a shop called Dazzle at Santacruz market if I’m not wrong. I don’t remember the price , or I would have definitely told you. But now that I’m a blogger *ahem* I will keep such things in mind. Also, I will click better pictures. Promise!

 

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Of course my camera is one of my newest, most treasured loves. I know there will come a day, when it will just be part of my job;  something I sort of have to lug around. But I’ll tell you one thing, that day is not today!

 

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I am obsessed with this fragrance  Sea Rose by Davidoff. Clearly right? Since the bottle is almost over. I was trying to figure a way to not show you that – but it’s super tough…what with ya’ll having eyes and all. So anyway, I never thought I would like anything with the word rose on it but this particular fragrance is divine. It stays on for hours too. I wish I knew more about perfumes so I could give you’ll some gyaan but I’m guessing the top notes are made of..umm..flowers..and perfection! Yeah. I’ll stop now.

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AN UNFILTERED LIFESTYLE BLOG FOR THE REAL GIRLS BY A REAL GIRL

Hi, I’m Smriti Notani and I have an incessant need to keep it real. I live my life like someone has attached a giant #NOFILTER sign above my head.
When I figured there was legit nothing out there catering to strong, funny, wise, bold, sassy, sensible, REAL girls, I decided to start this blog. The content you’ll find here will be veering towards adulting, feminism, food, and truthfully terrible puns – the kind that make you laugh despite yourself. Apart from being on a mission to build a tribe of real girls, one (hopefully) witty post at a time, I’m a lifestyle writer with various websites who literally lives on the Internet. Hopefully you’ll find yourself at home here at Real Girl and you’ll keep coming back for more. *Insert creepy, shy smile that lingers for way too long*

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