All posts by : AyFa Collections

This week, earthy tones ruled the fashion mood board. Shades of camel, treacle & khaki were sported by stars like Dua Lipa, Alia Bhatt, Mindy Kaling and Sydney Sweeney. No longer confined to utility wear, these hues took center stage in statement dresses and sharply tailored separates.

At a recent pop-up event, Dua Lipa turned heads in a rich chocolate-colour leather gown by Christopher Esber. With a sleeveless cut on one side and a cape sleeve on the other, the piece leaned into celebrities’ love for unconventional draping this season. A cinched waist with a peekaboo belt added intrigue, proving that deconstructed silhouettes are having their moment. Keeping it unfussy, she let her sleek black hair flow freely, pairing the look with subtle silver jewellery.

Alia Bhatt eased into summer in a crisp white dress. The fitted tank-style bodice, featuring wide straps and a square neckline, gave it a clean, effortless appeal, while the flared knit skirt added movement and texture. The balance of structure and softness gave it a relaxed yet polished look. She kept accessories minimal, opting for sculptural gold hoops that stood out against the all-white ensemble.

On the other side of the world, celebrities like Mindy Kaling and Lilly Singh leaned into khaki-adjacent green suits, each experimenting with texture. Kaling embraced a suited-up look in a green corduroy Essentiel Antwerp blazer and matching pants, layered over a black-and-off-white striped cotton shirt with an embellished button placket. Meanwhile, Singh opted for a silky satin blazer suit, posing alongside Bhumi Pednekar, who brought contrast in a sleek black leather ensemble.

Khaki just got its fashion upgrade, trading in its utilitarian roots for elevated style. Sydney Sweeney proved the point, turning a safari adventure into a runway in an olive Miu Miu mini dress with cargo pockets and gold buttons. Cinched at the waist with a Hermès leather belt and paired with Prada sand-hued walking boots, the look was equal parts polished and adventure-ready. Posing effortlessly off the side of a safari jeep, she made the case for khaki as the season’s most stylish neutral.

That’s not all though; scroll further to see more of the best fashion looks of the week.

The Sherwani for Men is more than a traditional outfit; it represents a legacy of heritage, elegance, and grandeur. A well-paired sherwani for the groom can leave everlasting memories on occasions like weddings, receptions, or festivals. Among the styles available, the two major ones are Nawabi-style sherwani and Achkan sherwani, which are bound to change the look and feel of the outfit and stand out with their respective tastes. 

So let’s check a few angles, including history, design elements, and suitable occasions for each style, to help you figure out which one works best for you.

Nawabi Style Sherwani: A Royal Legacy

With its roots in the Mughal styles, the Nawabi sherwani has long been associated with noblemen and aristocracy. This style evolved in the royal courts of Awadh, where the Nawabs adorned themselves in rich and elaborate garments that fully glorified grandeur. The Sherwani for Men in the Nawabi style carries that royal charm even today. 

Design-wise, it mostly remains long and flows gracefully below the knees, snapping a beautiful silhouette. Using luxurious brocade, velvet, and jamawar fabrics, this sherwani showcases intricate hand embroidery, zari work, and stone embellishment proportions to its glory. The flared cut just accentuates that royal appeal finished off with a pearl necklace, embroidered juttis, and a statement turban for that aesthetic touch.

The Nawabi sherwani for the groom is just right for those who wish to make a grand entrance. It is best suited for a traditional wedding, a lavish reception, or cultural festivities that call for an air of royalty. In case a palace or a heritage property stands as your wedding venue, this style of sherwani will be an ideal complement to the setting.

An Achkan Sherwani: Exclusiveness as Timelessness

This is an entirely different sherwani called the Achkan that combines Mughal heritage with British tailoring styles. It was once reserved for wear by aristocrats and dignitaries; however, it has come to form the essence of modernity yet must remain a somewhat traditional, much prayed-for statement piece. Achkan sherwanis are more tapered towards the body improving the frame of the wearer as compared to the flowing structure of the Nawabi sherwani.

The length is generally just above the knee, somewhat shorter than the Nawabi, and made out of lighter fabrics such as silk blends, jacquard, and linen, providing that luxury feel of comfortable elegance. The embroidery is generally very soft, usually accentuating the collar, cuffs, and button placket rather than the whole attire.

This is a wonderful article dress for any pre-wedding occasion, like engagement sangeet, mehendi, etc. It perfectly fits cocktail receptions and destination weddings where one has to balance tradition and modernity. Achkan style sherwanis can be worn with very little accessorizing, so the focus is mainly on the fit and the fabric.

Choosing the Right Sherwani for Your Wedding

It also plays a vital part in personal style, comfort, and the event. The deciding argument: between Nawabi sherwani and Achkan Sherwani for Men, if they have to betroped. 

If it is traditional and mega for your wedding, the Nawabi Sherwani for Groom would definitely work effectively. The absolutely lavish details in embroidery, fabric, and texture will neatly come in line with the most opulent settings a wedding can have. Should one have the luxury of going for an unsuspecting yet sophisticated look, there’s always the Achkan for the groom. It can also be more comfortable for summer weddings and outdoor ceremonies.

Another important factor is comfort. The Nawabi sherwani is more suited to a cool place or indoors because of all its heavy fabric and heavy embroidery. The Achkan sherwani, on the other hand, has better ventilation and gives more freedom for easy movement, making it ideal for warm outdoor weather festivities. 

Your choice must also be driven by your style. If you appreciate heritage designs and very intricate details, the Nawabi sherwani will resonate with your aesthetic. If you prefer clean lines and minimal elegance, the Achkan sherwani would be more appropriate.

Why Nihal Fashions is the Best Choice for Sherwani for Men

Sherwani for Men is all about the finest craftsmanship, textiles, and tailoring. Nihal Fashions designs an array of sherwani for the groom of dastar or Nawabi and Achkan types. Their sherwani exhibit rich embroidery, premium materials, and impeccable cuts such that every groom easily finds a perfect match for himself. 

For those pursuing the best in Nawabi sherwani, Nihal Fashions offers stunning and intricately detailed designs, with regal silhouettes made from rich fabrics. If you fancy Achkan sherwani that are sleek and tailored, Nihal Fashions boasts an array of classically elegant options that communicate class. 

These sherwanis are not confined to weddings but can also be worn for festivals, receptions, and cultural gatherings alike. Every sherwani at Nihal Fashions is a work of art, keeping in mind every artistic quality and ancestral commitment, with quality at its heart. Whether you choose the Nawabi sherwani grandeur at a royal wedding or the Achkan sherwani cut-and-dry elegance at an understated affair, Nihal Fashions has the magic outfit all set for you. Visit their latest collection and amp up your look with a Sherwani for Men that defines your style. Order Indian Clothes online as per your choice only at Nihal Fashions. Start shopping!

On March 29, a brand new lunar cycle begins: a very special new moon in Aries, which is accompanied by a partial solar eclipse and a supermoon. A supermoon is when the moon is between the Earth and the sun, and this one is particularly close to the Earth (although you can’t see it).

This is the last eclipse in the Aries-Libra eclipse cycle, which we have been dealing with since April 2023. Eclipses are considered accelerators and life correctors; they suddenly reveal information or enable events that feel fateful.

New moon in March 2025: Don’t look back in anger

Cosmic tip: Now is the time to think back to April 2023 and realise what has happened since then in terms of your relationships, your identity and your ability to show up authentically. As the last eclipse in the cycle, the solar eclipse in Aries on March 29 represents a culmination point, and you may even feel on a physical level how much you’ve changed. You may realise how you have evolved in your relationships and be able to see yourself more clearly for the self-confident person you have become.

The new moon in Aries brings vigour and confidence

Like every new moon, this is a time for new beginnings, and Aries new moons are generally good for trying something new and innovative. You will want to assert yourself, take control of your life and discover your personal courage. This is a good time to focus on some of the constructive qualities of the Aries zodiac—enterprising, straightforward, sincere, courageous—and consider how you can bring these qualities into your life in a positive way.

Mercury is still retrograde

During this eclipse, we may feel a strong urge to act on impulse. However, this new moon is taking place under a Mercury retrograde, which can make it difficult to see the way forward. It is important not to jump to conclusions or assert yourself without considering the feelings of others.

What you should and should not do in the days around the new moon:

The new moon in March 2025 is particularly suitable for this:

Think back to April 2023: The partial solar eclipse in Aries on March 29 celebrates a final point and the completion of a cycle that we have been working with since April 2023. Take a few minutes to take yourself back two years.

What did you start? What did you end? Did you have to separate from relationships or perhaps relationship dynamics that were no longer good for you? How has your life changed since then, especially in terms of relationships and how you show up in them? Do you feel more confident when it comes to the people you choose to surround yourself with?

Kurta Pajama for Men is one of the highly stylized and classical wear in the entire Indian closet. Wedding festival, or even a casual family gathering, you need to find the right fabric that will style you best. Cotton Kurta Pajama or Silk- you name it: both have their charms. But which will suit you most? Let us find out the advantages and disadvantages so that one can decide accordingly.

Understanding the Kurta Pajama for Men

The best example of simple elegance and comfort in Indian mens fashion is Kurta Pajama. Consists of an extended tunic-style top (kurta) with either loose fitting or normal fitted pants (pajama), it is a timeless attire. There are several fabrics in which you could have it, several patterns and styles, and dressed for several occasions. Long Indian Dresses for wedding functions to lightweight casual wear, its fabric decides comfort and style.

Cotton Kurta Pajama: The Everyday Classic

Cotton is the most commonly used fabric for Indian menswear. Its lightness and breathability make it the best bet for daily wear and semi-formal occasions. A cotton kurta pajama is the regular wear that will fulfill every need.

Why Choose a Cotton Kurta Pajama?

• Comfort & Breathability: Good for the hot and humid Indian climate. Absorbs moisture, allows keeping cool even in the hottest days.

• Ease of Movement: Whether you are attending the Pooja, family gatherings, or lying back around the house, it has given maximum comfort and satisfaction.

• Versatility: Pair it with a plain white or pastel cotton kurta pajama with a Nehru jacket for an instant transformation to a festive wear.

• Least Maintenance: Unlike silk, cotton is not too difficult to wash and maintain, so perfect for use every day. 

• Budget-Friendly: Cotton is generally a lot cheaper than silk so it can be available to everyone.

Best Occasions to Wear Cotton Kurta Pajama

A cotton Kurta Pajama for Men is ideal for:

• Daily wear
• Religious ceremonies
• Office ethnic days
• Semi-formal events
• Summer weddings

Silk Kurta Pajama: A Statement of Opulence

Silk has always been a symbol of grandeur and luxury and this makes it a prime candidate for wedding, reception, and festive affairs. The silk kurta pajama spells elegance and sophistication, an outfit worthy of making a statement. 

Why Silk Kurta Pajama? 

• Regal: The silk is meant to add a royalty factor to your looks and a sophisticated aura. 

• Rich Texture & Shine: The sheen of silk renders an extravagant and aristocratic look to Indian attire. 

• Perfect for Grand Occasions: When it comes to weddings, the silk kurta pajama is your ultimate fashion statement, whether you are the groom or a wedding attendee celebrating his calling. 

• Cultural Importance: Silk has great cultural importance in Indian traditions and is invariably worn for auspicious occasions. 

• Variety: There are many options in silk, from raw silk to Banarasi silk, for variety under silk fabric.

Best Occasions to Wear Silk Kurta Pajama

A silk Kurta Pajama for Men is ideal for:

• Weddings & receptions
• Festivals like Diwali and Eid
• Engagement ceremonies
• Grand cultural celebrations

Cotton vs. Silk Kurta Pajama: A Detailed Comparison

Cotton and silk are both important kinds of fabric that men can choose for kurta pajamas; however, men must keep many dimensions in mind, including comfort, maintenance, cost, and fit for the varied occasion. Both possess their own merits, making them favorites in different settings and personal tastes.

Comfort and Wearability

A cotton kurta pajama is incredibly breathable and lightweight, making it perfect for India’s warm weather. The fabric absorbs moisture, ensuring that you stay comfortable even on humid days. Cotton also allows free movement, making it a great choice for casual outings and day-to-day wear.

On the other hand, silk kurta pajama equals luxury and elegance. It feels beautiful and soft against the skin but is less breathable than cotton; thus, it is not very useful at places where under-airing is not being set, at evening events, or in a cooler environment. The beautiful drape of silk gives a more structured and regal look. 

Maintenance and Longevity

Cotton hardly needs any care or maintenance; it can even be washed at home, which makes it a good option for regular usage. However, the cotton fabric tends to wrinkle quite easily and may fade over a period if not properly taken care of. 

On the other hand, silk needs special attention. Its maintenance involves dry cleaning, careful handling, etc., for preserving luster. Though silk comparatively delicate, well-maintained silk kurta pajama can live for years, hence considered a valuable investment. 

Affordability and Occasion Use 

Cotton Kurta Pajama for Men is usually light on the pocket and apt for informal and semi-informal occasions such as religious gatherings and lighter office ethnic wear as well as during day functions. 

Silk is that luxurious fabric that adds an extravagant touch to a costume. Silk is the first choice on occasions like marriages, receptions, and festivals, where creating a fashion statement is important.

Selecting the Perfect Kurta Pajama by Nihal Fashions for Men

When it comes to shopping for the optimal kurta pajama, Nihal Fashion has got a wide range of super top-quality collections in cotton and silk options for all men.

Cotton Kurta Pajama Collection

• White Cotton Kurta Pajama: A must-have in every man’s wardrobe, perfect for daily wear and even at religious ceremonies.

• Printed Cotton Kurta Pajama: Perfect for casual hang-outs with friends or as office ethnic wear as it comes in attractive patterns and designs.

• Cotton Kurta Pajama with Nehru Jacket: A piece that can be styled for semi-formal occasions yet adds a structured look to the jacket.

Silk Kurta Pajama Collection 

• Banarasi Silk Kurta Pajama: Rich, royal, and made to cater to all needs during solemn wedding functions.

• Embroidered Silk Kurta Pajama: Adorned with tedious embroidery that promises a grand experience on special festive occasions.

• Designer Silk Kurta Pajama: Premium pieces made with handwoven silk, perfect for the groom or wedding guests.

Cotton or Silk: Which One Should You Choose?

At the end of the day, it depends on the choice of cotton or silk by the end-user for himself, the occasion of wearing, and also the comfort possible. 

• Pick Cotton if: You want a breathable, light, low-maintenance daily wear worth taking to small gatherings or semi-formal occasions.

• Excels in Silk if: You are after the loud stuff and take great pride in using a heavy fabric to adorn yourself during marriage, reception, or festival.

Conclusion: Get Your Perfect Kurta Pajama at Nihal Fashions

For men, both cotton and silk Kurta Pajama for Men have their specific charm and purpose. Comfort and simplicity versus opulence and grandeur are both available in various collections from Nihal Fashions. You can directly check their latest Indian Mens Clothing collection, where tradition and contemporary meet. 

Search for the best Indian Dresses for all occasions and style them more easily with the best kurta-pajama combination. Visit Nihal Fashions today to shop the latest designs!

If the installation feels girl-coded, it’s intentional. In Shakeel’s hands, crystals and couture are not ornamental—they’re tools of storytelling, mysticism and power. “Crystals, couture, astrology—these aren’t just aesthetic; they’re portals,” says the London-based artist who is currently showcasing Jewel System at ArtisTree in Hong Kong. “They’ve long been tools of healing, storytelling and power, especially in the hands of women. This project honours the sacred feminine energy that has always known that there is magic in the stars and strength in softness.”

All of these elements—material, method and meaning—converge in a final act of unity. That sense of unity pulses through the finished installation, which is as much a statement of identity as it is of aesthetics. “By using Pakistani embroidery techniques to recreate the cosmos, I wasn’t just decorating planets, I was weaving our cultural identity into the fabric of the universe,” Shakeel explains. “I was making a statement: We are not behind. We are timeless.’”

For a generation navigating the space between digital innovation and inherited tradition, The Jewel System offers a tempting proposition: that the future need not eclipse the past. Shakeel’s cosmos suggests that cultural memory, feminine energy and technological possibility can coexist—not in conflict, but in conversation.

Also read:

Sara Shakeel, the Pakistani artist who bedazzled Billie Eilish’s Vogue cover, has launched crystal-studded sunglasses

What does fashion owe its Muslim karigars?

Pakistani designer Rano Usman pays tribute to ancient traditions of the subcontinent in her debut solo show

As someone who’s been called “too sensitive” more times than I can count, I get that attempting to learn how to not take things personally can feel about as possible as trying to “just relax” or “stop overthinking.” (What else am I supposed to assume when a friend leaves my last three texts on delivered—meanwhile they’re actively posting on Instagram? How does it not say something about my apartment when my partner prefers to sleep at their own place instead of mine?)

It’s normal to be annoyed, hurt, or even suspicious when you don’t really know the true intentions behind a person’s words or actions. But you should be able to move on from these moments, Geoffrey Gold, PhD, New York City–based psychologist at Therapists of New York, tells SELF—or at least talk it out. Taking it personally, on the other hand, means you’re internalising words or actions as hard truth, whether that’s They must hate my new haircut or I’m not good enough.

Your brain can spin these unhelpful, mean stories for all kinds of reasons. While some people are naturally blessed with an “IDGAF” mindset, factors like low self-esteem, perfectionism, and anxiety can make it hard to shake off the small stuff, Dr. Gold explains. However, this self-destructive habit of reading too much into things is definitely worth addressing, because over time, it’s bound to crush your confidence, waste your time, and sabotage your relationships. With a little effort and the expert tips below, you can slowly break that cycle of defensiveness—and in turn, protect your peace of mind.

1. Check your own biases before jumping to conclusions

Sometimes, those knee-jerk instincts to go on the offense are more about your own perception versus the actual reality of a situation, Pavan Basra, LMFT, a Los Angeles–based therapist specializing in relationships, tells SELF. Maybe two of your buddies hung out without you—but you’re convinced they hate you because your former toxic circle always excluded you. Or it hits especially hard that a Tinder match didn’t respond to your DM, probably since you were just unexpectedly dumped a few weeks ago.

According to Basra, recognising that your defensiveness may be rooted in past experiences—not the present moment—can be a solid first step toward interrupting the spiral and rethink whether you’re truly being targeted.

2. Ask before you assume

When something feels off, don’t just jump straight into mind-reading mode. You’ll save yourself a whole lot of energy (and mental gymnastics) by simply asking for clarity, Basra says. Dr. Gold recommends keeping it casual with phrases like: “Hey, what did you mean by that comment?”; “I noticed we haven’t talked much this week. Is everything okay?”; or “That hangout looked so fun—just curious, can I ask why I wasn’t invited?”

Mushroom coffee sounds funky, and rightly so. They’re indeed not your typical cup of joe. But if you’re seeking enhanced focus, more energy, and a powered-up immune system, pairing (or replacing) your morning latte with mushrooms may be a good idea. These thoughtful beverages, which supplement coffee with mushrooms like reishi, lion’s mane, and chaga, offer a lower dose of caffeine alongside a higher amount of micronutrients. Because of that, and depending on the exact combination of mushrooms, they offer additional perks beyond the typical energy surge, helping to offset fatigue throughout the day or allowing you to concentrate for a longer period of time.

Whether you choose to pair your mushroom with the real thing or swap coffee entirely for a new flavour, these expert-recommended mushroom coffees are a good place to start.

What is mushroom coffee?

Mushroom coffee is a type of coffee that’s paired with mushrooms like chaga, lion’s mane, reishi, and cordyceps. Depending on the brand and blend, mushroom coffee may offer roughly 40 to 50mg of caffeine per cup, which is about half that found in a cup of coffee. And, while mushrooms themselves don’t contain caffeine, “they can still provide a natural energy boost due to their adaptogenic and nutrient-dense properties,” says Dr Powell. “Certain mushrooms, like cordyceps, enhance oxygen utilisation and cellular energy—helping to improve stamina and reduce fatigue.” Meanwhile, she says, lion’s mane can support cognitive function by stimulating nerve growth factors, which improves focus and mental clarity.

However, the flavour can require an adjustment. “Mushroom coffee doesn’t taste exactly like your typical black coffee,” says Maeng. “Depending on the brand, it can have a very earthy taste, especially if it doesn’t have any other flavour added to it.”

Is mushroom coffee good for you?

Generally, yes, mushroom coffee is good for you. “Mushroom coffee provides more nutrients than a regular cup of coffee, as mushrooms are full of antioxidants and other nutrients such as B vitamins, vitamin D, selenium, and potassium, which can help protect cells from oxidative stress,” says Maeng.

And, although mushroom coffee tends to be lower in caffeine, “it can potentially support cognitive function better than coffee, improve stress adaptation, and provide sustained energy without the caffeine-related jitters,” she says. She recommends it for those who want to cut back their coffee consumption due to anxiety, caffeine-related jitters, and sleep issues.

What are the health benefits?

As we mentioned, mushroom coffee can deliver key nutrients, help you feel more energised, and may support the immune system. But it may offer a multitude of benefits beyond that, too, thanks in part to its emphasis on adaptogenic mushrooms. A mainstay in traditional Eastern medicine, these mushrooms “help the body adapt to stress, support overall well-being, and provide functional benefits without overstimulating the nervous system,” says Dr. Powell.

Karan Torani spent more than 3,400 work hours to bring this jewel-toned purple sari to life. Drawing inspiration from the Chowmahallah Palace in Hyderabad and the Chaukhandi Tombs in Karachi, the ensemble features architecture and carving details from the historic monuments. The designer’s signature paan patta take centre stage on the pallu. She paired it with a dainty yellow-gold, polki and pearl choker, along with circular and tear-drop earrings.

Sequin sari by Sabyasachi

One of Sabyasachi’s most loved six-yard staples is his sparkly sequin monotone saris, as seen on Deepika Padukone, but also other celebrities like Isha Ambani, Alia Bhatt and Kareena Kapoor. The beauty of this beaded and sequinned ensemble is that it reflects light without being overpowering or shiny, acing the tasteful bling memo. The actor completed the look with understated dangler drop earrings. Brides-to-be, bookmark this look—it can be worn for Diwali celebrations, cocktail parties and sunset weddings.

Burnt-orange kanjivaram sari from Advaya by The House of Angadi

Beauty has always been about transformation—bottles, jars, and formulations that can change the way we see ourselves and others. But today, that transformation isn’t just about what’s on the surface. The Vogue Beauty & Wellness Honours, in partnership with Tira, expands its scope to recognise not just beauty innovations but also the evolving world of wellness—one that goes beyond traditional self-care.

“We decided to expand the beauty awards to include wellness, but not just the going-to-the-spa kind. We’re looking at wellness from an emotional, mental, sexual, even a social lens. You could be the kind of person eating organic food, working out five times a day, meditating before bedtime and still be in a rut due to social isolation, one of the major downsides of this digital age,” says Rochelle Pinto, Head of Editorial Content, Vogue India.

This expansion mirrors a larger shift in the beauty industry—one where innovation is no longer driven by a handful of legacy brands but by a new wave of creators redefining the space. “Beauty today is no longer defined by a handful of legacy brands as it was a few years ago. Cutting-edge, young brands are coming in from all corners of the world, each with its own unique approach to formulation, storytelling, and consumer engagement. This has made the industry more diverse and dynamic than ever before,” says Bhakti Modi, Co-founder of Tira.

An evolution of the iconic Vogue Beauty Awards, this platform continues to spotlight the products, pioneers, and breakthroughs shaping the future of beauty and wellness. Judged by an expert panel, it remains a benchmark for what truly works and what’s built to last.

Here’s everything you need to know before you submit.

Product categories

Makeup: From weightless foundations to bold lip colours, we’re celebrating the artistry and innovation behind every formula.

Skincare: From cutting-edge actives to time-tested rituals, we’re honouring the products that nourish, protect and rejuvenate skin.​

Haircare: From reparative treatments to styling essentials, here’s to recognising formulas that keep every strand strong. healthy and vibrant.

Fragrances: From scents that evoke memories, moods and moments to modern olfactory masterpieces, spotlighting perfumes that leave a lasting impression.

Wellness: Covering everything from ingestibles and supplements to sleep aids, wellness sanctuaries and sel that nurture the body, mind, and soul.

Key dates

Entry period: 18 March 2025 to 31 March 2025. Late submissions may not be entertained.​

In March last year, author Joanna Maciejewska presciently tweeted, “You know what the biggest problem with pushing all-things-AI is? Wrong direction. I want AI to do my laundry and dishes so that I can do art and writing, not for AI to do my art and writing so that I can do my laundry and dishes.” Everyone hates writing emails but ChatGPT has uniformised email etiquette to such an extent that every email now reads like corporate vomit. And even that is okay—after all, most emails are for formally getting across a point you can’t yell over the phone—but many new entrants to the workforce admit that they are unable to write an email without AI assistance. When it comes to schoolwork too, many studies question whether AI is helping students learn better or making them think less. All results point towards reduced critical thinking. And if our critical thinking skills deteriorate because of our over-reliance on AI, how will we ever identify AI as the culprit?

Beyond artistic, ethical and moral dilemmas, AI also poses grave environmental concerns. Studies have found that each time you use AI to generate an image, write an email or ask a chatbot a question, it comes at a cost to the planet. According to a Washington Post study conducted in collaboration with the University of California, Riverside, ChatGPT uses 519 millilitres—or just over one bottle—of water to write a 100-word email. And Ghibli-fying yourself or a single frame from your favourite movie? Apparently, that consumes as much energy as fully charging your smartphone. As soon as the OpenAI update was rolled out last night, AI filmmaker PJ Ace released a 1 minute 52 second trailer to a Ghibli version of The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (2001). Somewhere, a water body has disappeared entirely.

As I finish writing this, many Reddit users are complaining that the new OpenAI feature has already been rolled back and the notification they’re receiving reads: “OpenAI has restrictions on generating images in the style of specific artists, including Studio Ghibli. This is due to copyright and intellectual property concerns.” Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI tweeted the cause to be “images in ChatGPT are wayyyy (sic) more popular than we expected (and we had pretty high expectations). Rollout to our free tier is unfortunately going to be delayed for a while.” I’d like to believe it’s some Miyazaki magic.