All posts by : AyFa Collections

Cunha’s powder-white ensemble was painted in sunset hues. Floral motifs were deftly interspersed with elements from the couple’s journey, and no two panels were alike—some featured wildlife, depicting their love for safaris, while others sported Jaipur motifs as an ode to their wedding destination.

Over six months, the multidisciplinary artist and her designer friend, Simone Contractor Vakil of the clothing brand Simone Handcrafted, tested materials and paints. “Simone provided 12 raw silk panels that became the blank canvas for the art. Throughout the wedding planning, even if I was on a Zoom call discussing details, I’d be painting my lehenga on the side.” Her partner loved the final result so much that she made him a matching bandhi for their wedding in January last year.

For most brides, wedding ensembles transcend mere fabric, sequins and embroidery. The outfits present an opportunity to tell deeply personal stories—of their cultural background, their love for craft and the journey behind creating a look that befits a milestone.

The weaves and folds of Jasleena Singh’s lehenga hold the story of a treasured friendship that began from before she was born. “My family has known Taara’s [designer Taara Mehta] parents since before we were born. They planned each other’s baby showers. We’ve done life together,” the New York-based medical practitioner says. When Singh decided to tie the knot in February 2025, she wanted to say ‘I do’ in her best friend’s creation.

Luckily for the bride, Mehta had envisioned the outfit a long time before she was asked to bring it to life. “We’ve done sweet sixteen parties and travelled together. When you know someone on such a deep level, you can just picture the moment,” Mehta recalls. That connection translated into a ruby-red silk lehenga with zardozi embroidery, honouring Singh’s Punjabi roots.

Other brides have also chosen to honour deep connections through their wedding ensembles. Fashion designer Nishka Lulla’s bridal look expressed her bond with her mother, Neeta. Crafted over three months, the rani-pink lehenga borrowed patches of embroidery from her designer mum’s own wedding outfit. Featuring pearl embroidery and encrusted with precious stones, it was hand-painted with Tanjore art depicting scenes from the Raas-Leela of Vrindavan. “The Tanjore art transformed it from a mere design into a tribute to my heritage. The precision made it feel animated,” she says.

With breakups often come an exquisite mix of disappointment, rejection, anger, fear and grief. Sometimes, there’s also debilitating jealousy, or even a strange sense of relief—but no matter the particular blend of feelings, one thing is certain: getting over a breakup can be brutal, regardless of who initiated the split.

“Breakups are challenging because relationships are deeply rooted in our emotions, routines and sense of identity,” explains sexologist and relationship coach Allie Theis. “When a relationship ends, it’s not just the person you’re losing—you also lose the shared memories, dreams and the future you envisioned together.”

And the hurt is not solely emotional. Losing your beloved actually triggers the brain’s anterior cingulate cortex and insula—the same regions that process physical pain. “Add in attachment, unresolved feelings and societal pressure, and it’s no wonder breakups often feel like the end of the world,” says Theis.

While there’s no easy way through a breakup, there are healthy ways to process the pain—and, hopefully, come out on the other side stronger than before. “Breakups give you the chance to rebuild yourself and become the best version of who you are,” says therapist Misty Williams. “You get to focus entirely on your own expectations and priorities without anyone else’s influence. Think of it as cutting down a huge, shady tree that’s been blocking your sunlight. Now you can grow freely and bloom again.”

Below, expert advice on how to get over a breakup:

How to accept that a relationship is over

Accepting that a relationship is over is a major step towards healing—and ultimately moving on. But often, it’s easier said than done. We might find ourselves romanticising the good times, fixating on the past or clinging to the hope of reconciling down the line. Yet more often than not, such behaviours only make the suffering worse.

“It’s important to stop focusing on what-if scenarios, like whether you’ll get back together or what you could’ve done differently,” says Williams. “Acceptance starts with acknowledgement.”

Practising what Buddhists and dialectical behaviour therapists call “radical acceptance” can help. This requires a level of surrender and the cognisance that certain circumstances are simply beyond our control. “Acceptance does not mean that we like or agree with what is happening,” says therapist Kristin Money. “Acceptance means that we choose to allow ourselves to feel what we need to feel without judgment.”

Natural tones, such as beige and sand, are perfect for raffia crochet work. They’re also are joined by multicolor proposals – crochet quotes 70s fashion, with pouch and shopping bags that are designed for daytime or for going to the beach. Summer 2025 celebrates handcrafted creativity and relaxed boho-chic style with a big comeback: crocheted bags. Colorful, in natural shades or deep black, these bags are no longer simple beach accessories, but true style statements. The Chloé and Elie Saab Spring/Summer 2025 fashion shows are proof that crochet is the protagonist, reinterpreted in a modern, elegant and sophisticated key.

The allure of handmade craftsmanship

Crochet has always been synonymous with craftsmanship, slowness and attention to detail. In an age when fashion is rediscovering the value of “handmade,” crocheted bags perfectly embody the desire for authenticity and sustainability. Each piece is unique, often made from natural yarns such as cotton, linen, or raffia, and can be easily customized in color, shape, and detail.

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In 2025, this tradition is mixed with the latest trends, resulting in bags that combine bohemian design and contemporary spirit. The result? Versatile accessories capable of completing both daytime looks and evening outfits with a touch of summer lightness. Natural hues = casual elegance.

Natural shades: casual elegance

Alongside more vibrant proposals, natural shades dominate: beige, écru, sand, ivory. These neutral colors enhance the texture of the crochet and convey a simple elegance, perfect for summer in the city or country outings. Raffia or raw rope bags, perhaps decorated with bangs or wooden handles, are ideal to pair with total white or light denim looks.

The Maison’s focus on these nuances to offer a chic yet casual accessory that perfectly complements the philosophy of slow and sustainable fashion.

₹1,55,384

Prada – Crochet shopping bag

₹2,81,633

Valentino Garavani – VSling tote Bag

₹56,326

Hibourama – Vannifique tote bag

₹3,787

H&M – Knitted cotton shoulder bag

₹47,586

JW Anderson – Popcorn sling bag

₹3,884

Mango – Natural fiber clutch bag

₹1,942

H&M – Straw tote bag

₹24,764

Eugenia Kim – Crochet tote bag with chelsea leather trim

₹2,913

Mango – Crochet handbag

Black crochet bags: the sophisticated and unexpected accessory

If crochet is traditionally associated with a sunny and light aesthetic, black crochet bags offer an unexpected reinterpretation of it. Black gives crochet a mysterious and sophisticated allure, turning these bags into ideal companions for evening wear as well.

Elie Saab proposed black crochet bags paired with long transparent and embroidered dresses, creating a perfect balance between romanticism and sensuality. Ideal for those who love minimalism with a handcrafted twist.

₹189,374

Prada – Mini crochet bucket bag

₹8,643

COS – Cavatelli clutch bag straw black

₹1,64,124

Chloé – summer Banana Small Shoulder Bag

₹43,701

JW Anderson – Cable knit small bag in raffia

₹47,586

Jacquemus – Le petit carré beach raffia shopping bag

₹1,942

Ynport Crefreak – Women’s crochet cotton knit shoulder bag

Colorful crochet bags: energy and lightheartedness

Colorful crochet bags are at the heart of the trend. From vitamin shades such as orange, lemon yellow, and turquoise to multicolor patchwork-style combinations, these bags brighten up even the simplest look. Perfect for pairing with linen maxi dresses, kaftans and flat sandals, they become the stars of festival looks or beach vacations.

Chloé brought models on the runway in sand colors brightened by neon details, while Elie Saab played with pastel contrasts and metallic inserts, giving the crochet bags an ethereal yet glam aura.$

₹1,34,989

Chloé – Bracelet paravent bag in crochet

₹2,427

Ausing – Crochet Beach Bag

₹218,508

Miu Miu – Wander crochet tote bag

₹27,192

Alanui – Crochet mini bag

₹15,538

Marni – handbag

₹2,913

Zara – Mini braided top bag

₹2,913

Zara – Fruit crochet crossbody bag

₹5,244

8 by Yoox – Organic cotton crochet handbag

₹13,207

Nannacay – Nicoletta crochet-knit shoulder bag

₹387,974

Zara – Mini bag with metallic handle

This article first appeared on Vogue Italia.

Also read:

The key Spring-Summer 2025 bag trends to know now

Beauty bag charms have become the new luxe flex

12 Gucci bags you’ll want to borrow from Alia Bhatt’s bag collection

Communication is your medicine now—clear, kind, and aligned, Virgo. There’s a clearing happening—in your mind, your heart, your energy. Old fears are loosening their grip, making space for clarity and calm. You’re being asked to release the weight of overthinking and speak from a place of truth, not fear. Let the words flow, even the ones you’ve held back. Your path is becoming lighter, more purposeful, more honest. Trust that what’s meant for you doesn’t need chasing—it will meet you where you stand when you’re aligned within. This is a moment for deep inner truth, peaceful boundaries, and fearless self-expression. Let stillness guide you.

Cosmic tip: Let your voice be your freedom.

Emotions may run deep right now, but they carry messages meant to soothe, not overwhelm. Let intuition lead where logic cannot. The answers you seek aren’t outside—they’re blooming in your stillness, in your calm, Libra. Speak your truth with grace, even if your voice trembles. You are being aligned with serenity, with inner knowing, with strength that doesn’t need to force. This is your moment to soften without shrinking, to lead with both wisdom and peace. Trust what flows, trust what feels, and trust what gently returns to you.

Cosmic tip: Trust the quiet clarity that is rising.

Scorpio, your heart is your compass now—bold, tender, and wiser than it’s ever been. You’re being called to lead with love, not the kind that pleases, but the kind that knows. There’s strength in softness, power in passion, and beauty in choosing what truly sets your soul on fire. Old patterns around love, worth, and desire are ready to be rewritten. What you crave is craving you, too, but only if you’re brave enough to receive it. Root into your truth, honour your emotions, and let your desires rise without shame. This is heart-led transformation. You’re not too much—you’re finally just enough for the life you’ve always deserved.

Cosmic tip: Let love lead.

Your mind is expanding, your soul is waking up, and your path is being rewritten in quiet, golden strokes. This is a season of insight – of deep truths rising from within and bold visions arriving from beyond, Sag. You’re not imagining it; you’re evolving. The shifts feel cosmic because they are. Trust the intuitive nudges, the mental sparks, the dreams that won’t let go. You’re being invited to lead, to transform, to embody a version of yourself that no longer hides from power or purpose. Let clarity guide you. Let change elevate you. What you’re building now is both sacred and destined. Stay open, stay grounded, and know – your brilliance is not accidental.

The details include: a plunging blouse, a straight skirt and duppatta-like drape all cocooned in a mesh GG monogrammed jaal. For her beauty look, she went will Old-Hollywood waves falling over her shoulders, and for jewels—a diamond tennis necklace brought it together.

CANNES, FRANCE – MAY 24: Alia Bhatt attends the closing ceremony red carpet at the 78th annual Cannes Film Festival at Palais des Festivals on May 24, 2025 in Cannes, France. (Photo by Andreas Rentz/Getty Images)Andreas Rentz/Getty Images

Alia Bhatt’s red carpet debut at Cannes 2025 may have come wrapped in a Schiaparelli gown, but it was her beauty look that carried the mood. Where others might have chased high-drama glamour, Bhatt chose something quieter, rooted in softness, clarity and a sense of personal rhythm.

Her makeup followed a single cohesive palette—rosy, glowing and softly sculpted. The skin was dewy but not glistening, with a lived-in finish that felt like skincare dialled up, not airbrushed on. A soft flush bloomed across her cheeks and temples, echoing the tones in her gown. The eyes, defined only by a whisper of kohl and a brushed-up brow, resisted anything too sharp or editorial.

Lips wore a creamy nude, veering petal pink and holding the tone of the look without pulling focus. The jewellery—pearl and diamond studs, a single pear-shaped diamond ring—spoke in the same language: polished, not performative.

But the star of the beauty look was undoubtedly the hair. Styled in a slick, sculptural bun, Bhatt’s face was framed by baby hairs curled delicately at the temples—each one gelled with intent, looping like calligraphy against her skin. It was a nod to vintage styling with a distinctly personal inflexion—more storytelling than trend, and a detail that softened the minimalism of the rest.

A final flourish, almost invisible unless you looked closely: a kaala teeka tucked discreetly behind her ear. Worn not as an ornament but as an inheritance, it added a quiet cultural beat. In a space that so often calls for spectacle, Alia Bhatt’s Cannes debut proved that sometimes, the most lasting impressions are made in the softest tones. It was a beauty moment that balanced tradition and modernity, marking a new chapter in Bhatt’s ongoing evolution as both a global ambassador and a red carpet minimalist, and a definitive Cannes 2025 beauty moment.

Also read:

All the Indian stars on the Cannes red carpet 2025—from Aishwarya Rai Bachchan to Janhvi Kapoor

All the best looks from the red carpet in Cannes

EXCLUSIVE: Alia Bhatt debuted at Cannes 2025 in a soft nude Schiaparelli gown

Earlier this year, in frigid New York, I witnessed Hura’s series Things Felt But Not Quite Expressed, comprising slice-of-life frames in soft pastels on paper that allow him to mix and match emotions. There is humour, satire, grief, and, at times, scenes that he just ‘lets be.’ But it’s always the captions he adds, longhand, that lend the kind of tongue-in-cheek flavour to his art that Gen Z salivates for. See, for instance, how the painting of a forlorn boy wedged between two couples making out is anointed ‘Saturday Night, 2022’. Another featuring a tiny fist reaching out from between two airplane seats to pluck a hair from the leg of a fellow passenger is presciently titled ‘Delhi to New York, all sixteen hours of it, 2023’. There’s a boy on the commode whose privacy is compromised with a birthday cake christened ‘The story of my life, 2023’. With gouache, Hura’s art takes a more surrealist vein. Ghosts in My Sleep, for example, is named for the silhouette of his late grandfather that would hover over his cot in his grandmother’s Chinsurah home.

‘Stranger Things Season 4 Episode 1, 2023’

‘A sudden bout of love, just before bath, 2022’

For Hura, shuffling between lens and paper is like “tuning the radio through different channels. Sometimes we might want the news, at other times we might want to listen to music.” His pastel paintings herald a “softer era” in his oeuvre, a practice he has found to be more “broken” than photography. Drawing instils the “importance of glitches in an increasingly sanitised and perfect world of images.” He needs drawing, Hura tells me. For now, at least. “I’m living with the contradiction of needing the softness of the pastels to get by (effects of long Covid and caretaking hinder his travels for his film work) and the responsibility of witnessing a livestreamed genocide.”

‘The bus screeched to a halt and I made a mad dash to the toilet at the far end of the stop but, 2023’

‘They ran out of milk so Gupta uncle and Vicky rushed to Mother Dairy, 2023’

Ultimately, Sohrab Hura asks that we consider his oeuvre and his role more mutably. He is many things. Documentarian, surrealist, satirist. Cartoonist, even. Above all, he is a critic. He is currently working on two photo books, Snow and The Song of Sparrows in a Hundred Days of Summer, the latter based on his work in Pati. He continues making moving images on his walks in Delhi as he convalesces from his lung damage, whilst drawing to stay close to the family he cares for. Like the range of characters in his paintings, he, too, contains multitudes.

An unfortunate fact about my life: I have spent a lot of time planning funerals. I was 21 when my mom died of stage four colon cancer. She requested a traditional Methodist service where Cat Stevens/Yusuf Islam’s songs were to be played. Both of my American grandparents wanted smaller to-dos in a chapel connected to the funeral home and asked for open caskets (something I still think about to this day). And then there was my dad, who died of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) last year; he had a remarkable-for-the-disease four years to meticulously plan his funeral. The memorandum was full of staunch requests (my fiancé was to read this exact passage from the Bible by memory, there would be a slideshow of approved photos at the country club reception), which made the planning almost too easy for somebody who was larger than life.

These experiences helped me learn something important about myself: I want to have a fun funeral. After all, the word does have fun in it.

Wear an outfit you think I’d like, but please remember I hate high-low dresses, skinny jeans and khaki pants—the inspiration is Naomi Campbell at Andre Leon Talley’s funeral. A movie-theatre-sized slideshow should be only hot photos of me—if I’ve ever texted you a tasteful nude, go ahead and throw it in there to remind everybody how good I looked. Let’s hire Caffè Panna to hand out ice cream cones while a Champagne tower overflows (each glass finished off with a crunched-up antidepressant adorning the rim). Maybe Sephora can do beauty touch-ups on-site, giving everybody a dab of Victoria Beckham lip gloss and a pop of Westman Atelier blush? Book the venue for the entire night, even though we all know if I was there, I would have snuck out at 9:15pm sharp to be home with my cat. But I want my funeral to be a capital P party.

Last month, transgender Filipino-American drag performer Bianca Castro-Arabejo (also known as Jiggly Caliente) passed away. Instead of a traditional funeral, ‘Slaybill’ (a play on Broadway Playbill) was hosted in her honour. The event took the idea of a celebration of life to heart—guests wore pastel colours and the run of show included eulogy-turned-comedy acts all about Caliente, as well as roasts that walked the line between dark humour and just plain dark. Fellow drag queen Karl Westerberg, known as Manila Luzon, embodied it all in his laughing-and-crying-at-the-same-time eulogy. When recalling filming Caliente’s Drag Race tryout video in an Apple store, he said “it was giving a glamorous Augustus Gloop going up the chocolate tube in Willy Wonka,” but also “I’m so sad we can’t keep doing and dreaming bigger and bigger things together.”

Sequins have fallen in and out of favour across the decades. And if Shanaya Kapoor’s latest look is anything to go by, then sequins are a sure-fire way to feel dressy. The actor wore a silvery-grey Sabyasachi sari for the Zee Cine Awards night.

Her feminine and floaty tulle look is part of Sabyasachi’s 2025 heritage collection. Her cocktail sari channelled the retro glam aesthetic, right from its silver shade to the embroideries and embellishments. The languid fabric was enerously accentuated with intricate floral thread embroidery and highlighted with sequin work. The border and pallu were brought to life with contrasting gold sequin work. Complementing it, a pale gold sequin sheet bralette completed her look.