Thinking Indian

April 6, 2015 posted by Vicki in Style

The Gypsetters are attending our first-ever Indian wedding this weekend in Kota Kinabalu and we have been eagerly preparing for it – through attending dance practices (yes, we are part of the only non-Indian group dancing for our dear friends Arrun and Vimmi!), deciding on designs for both our dance outfits and beautiful saris to be worn at the traditional Indian wedding night as well as the fun in finding different accessories to go with them.

Having never made a sari before, I was able to visit Om Lifestyle + Cafe where I was told its owner, Suman Gogna, would be able to help me.

Authentic Indian cuisine in a cozy cafe

Located in a nondescript mini-mall in Greenhills, Om offers not only a little nook where you can enjoy yummy Indian food but also buy all sorts of beautiful things imported directly from Indian markets – from home accessories, to jewelry, to pure pashmina shawls, to colorful Indian garments.

Find jewelry featuring semi-precious stones like turquoise at Om

I enjoyed the scent of sandalwood incense wafting through the air as I browsed through the shop’s wares. There are tunics for both men and women available for sale as well as all-leather sandals with those stylish pointy tips. Not only did I end up having my sari made here, I also bought authentic bangles and earrings to go with my outfit for the traditional Indian wedding. There are so many kinds to choose from! Being a newbie at this, I consulted our dance instructor Rashmi on how many one should buy for their arms! You can really go crazy.

Assorted bangles of every color and bling

Homemakers can also find delicate handmade bed linens and throw pillow covers here. There are also gorgeous leather document cases and fabric-covered notebooks or diaries for sale. Though I have yet to visit India, shopping here gave me an inkling of what I could find in the Indian markets. The beauty of Om is that everything is conveniently located in one store, plus aircon!

Ornate mirrors and intricately embossed document holders are both lovely to look at and useful too

As for my sari? It has turned out even more beautiful than I expected – and with the least amount of stress involved. Thank you Suman! I can’t wait to wear my sari with my new Indian jewelry this weekend. Now let’s hope we remember our dance moves after a few rounds of tequila…

For a real taste of Indian flava, visit Om Lifestyle + Cafe at 2/F Fox Square Building 53 Connecticut St, North East Greenhills, San Juan.

May all your gypsetting dreams come true,

Vicki