Madhu Pradhan is the managing director of Digiplus photo studio, a one stop imaging solutions in the capital and Eden food court and lounge bar, the rooftop eatery at Kathmandu Mall. Pradhan looks deceptively young to be the mother of two, the eldest turning twenty this December. [break]
The entrepreneur, who thanks her genes more than cosmetics for her beauty, nevertheless, is known much for her elegant fashion statement. While sharing some of her beauty secrets, she also suggested few fashion mantras for working-women.
“I personally am a minimalist when it comes to fashion, although a little bit of it is a must to enhance your natural beauty. It might sound too incredulous if I’d let you this secret that I’ve never had any facial,” her wrinkle-free face glowed as she smiled, something rare for a woman in her mid forties - not the smiling, but the wrinkle-free glowing face of a 20 year old.
“As far as I’m concerned, I make sure I get at least eight hours of beauty sleep, drink a plenty of water and above all, use quality cosmetics only.”
According to Pradhan, there is hardly a fashion culture in Nepal and most don’t even know the basics of fashion. “Not that I know it all, a little bit of care can do a lot to make ourselves immune to harmful cosmetics and simple fashion faux pas.”
“The first step to beauty is healthy lifestyle. Few basic things like exercise, food habit, adequate sleep and some yoga can work miracles,” she added. “For instance, last year accidentally I’d burned the left part of my face and my husband suggested getting a surgery in Bangkok. However, thanks largely to my lifestyle and quality cosmetics, it is all gone without leaving a mark.”
Pradhan is a patron of Lancome and Chanel, both Parisian brands.
Here is the list of Dos and Don’ts for wannabe smart working-women as suggested by Pradhan.
Dos1. Consult the beauty experts before using any cosmetic products. Some brands might seem too chic, but may not necessarily be appropriate for your skin type. Simple things like moisturizing and toning your skin regularly will save a lot of unnecessary bothering.
2. Make a point to visit the right hairdresser. I see many women dyeing, perming or straightening their hair. It is good to be careful about your hairstyle. But make sure that for a temporary good look you don’t cause permanent damage to your hair. Only a right beautician can come up with the right product that your hair needs.
3. It is nice to take up the fashion of seasons. For instance, it isn’t advisable to wear halters or skirts during winter, no matter how good you may look in it. One big secret behind looking beautiful is being comfortable with yourself. Cliche as it sounds but it is not the clothes but the attitude that you wear that matters.
4. For working women, a good brand body spray is a must.
Don’ts
1. Dieting is okay, but sudden weight loss is unhealthy. It not just hampers the balance of your body, but also ends up giving you a sagging skin.
2. I’m also against months-long detoxification. It is always good to get free of unnecessary toxins but prolonged vegan diets or throwing up or other medical detoxifications is not natural and hence it is better to avoid.
3. Rather than avoiding spicy food or meat, it is lot better to get a balanced food. It is not just good for your taste buds but also nutritious and healthy.
4. Too long and untidy nails are big NO. Even though they make a small part of your beauty, remember, it is an important part.
Conclusively she suggested, “Whatever might please me mustn’t be so with everyone. So, always pick things you are comfortable with. And besides, it is not always bad to make blunders. In fact, once in a while it is necessary to do so to spice up your life.”
bhushita@myrepublica.com
