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If 2024 was the year of the kitten heel and the ballet flat renaissance, 2025 is shaping up to be the year of the stiletto’s structural sister: the flared heel. She’s a little bit ’70s and a little bit Art-Deco – equal parts retro glam and futuristic chic. Because, hey! We really can have it all. Distinguished by unexpected proportions and subtle scoops, these playful styles are popping up on both runways and red carpets.

Edward Berthelot/Getty Images

The flared heel has its roots in the 1970s, an era known for bold fashion choices and disco-ready footwear, and while the halcyon days of Studio 54 have been replaced by nights in spent watching “evening routine” TikToks, the decade’s style has returned, with designers blending nostalgic references with cutting-edge design. Amina Muaddi has been spearheading this particular trend for seasons with her signature geometric heels, but now the look has gone fully mainstream, with the likes of Bottega Veneta and Jimmy Choo offering up sculptural heels.

The flared heel has already racked up plenty of A-list endorsements, when Sabrina Carpenter joined Taylor Swift on the Eras tour in New Orleans she was wearing a sculptural pair that added a few extra inches to her “five feet to be exact” stature.

Sabrina Carpenter at The Eras Tour

TAS2024/Getty Images

On the movie star front, Nicole Kidman turned heads at the Venice Film Festival wearing a sleek black pair that her Babygirl character, business-casual Romy, would surely take to the dancefloor in at a Brooklyn warehouse rave. Chrissy Teigen is another flared heels devotee, having sported them everywhere from the set of Celebrity Family Feud to a series of Instagram fit checks. Meanwhile supermodel Bella Hadid, who can always be relied on to opt for eye-catching footwear (platform Uggs, we’re looking at you) was spotted in New York City rocking an exaggerated pair from NYC girl fave, Sandy Liang.

Nicole Kidman at the Venice Film Festival

Anadolu/Getty Images

For those looking to dip a toe (or rather, their heel) into the trend, there’s no shortage of designers delivering their own take on the silhouette. From JW Anderson’s tan tassel leather mules to Dries Van Noten’s silver slingback heels, alternatives to simple stilettos are everywhere. Shushu/Tong and Simone Rocha have also embraced the flared heel with their signature romantic flourishes, and let’s not forget Phoebe Philo’s Club Loafers, a sculptural take on librarian chic.

This story first appeared in Vogue.co.uk

Also Read:

5 effortless ways to wear wide-leg trousers in 2025

Vogue-approved sneakers that will take you from work to play

How to wear kitten heels with jeans to the office this year

Small talk can feel like a chore—surface-level exchanges that don’t lead anywhere. But the secret to great conversation is keeping a list of small talk questions handy—although it isn’t just about asking questions; it’s about asking the right ones. Whether you’re at a networking event, on a first date or stuck in an elevator with a colleague, knowing how to steer a chat into something engaging can make all the difference.

Good small talk is an art. It’s the foundation of strong relationships, professional connections and even friendships. The key is curiosity: asking thoughtful, open-ended questions that make the other person feel heard. But instead of defaulting to the usual “What do you do?” or “How’s the weather?,” why not shake things up?

We’ve compiled a list of 100 best small talk questions, covering everything from lighthearted and funny to insightful and deep. The key, always, is to centre the focus on your speaker—and instil in yourself the belief that everyone you meet knows something you don’t—everyone has something valuable to share, and it is your job to excavate that kernel. Whether you want to make a lasting impression or simply avoid awkward silences, these questions will help you ace small talk in any situation.

Casual icebreaker questions

1. What are you looking forward to today?
2. Do you have a favourite spot in this city?
3. What are you reading these days?
4. What’s the most fun you’ve had so far this year?
5. What’s your go-to coffee order?
6. What’s one thing you always carry with you?
7. What’s your idea of a perfect weekend?
8. What’s your guilty pleasure TV show?
9. What’s your dream vacation destination this year?
10. What’s your signature dish in the kitchen?
11. What’s one song you always sing along to, no matter where you are?
12. Have you ever met a celebrity? What was the experience like?
13. What’s your favourite way to unwind?
14. If you had a free afternoon with no responsibilities, how would you spend it?
15. Do you prefer podcasts or music while commuting?
16. Are you more of a morning person or a night owl?
17. What’s the best gift you’ve ever received?
18. If you could master any instrument overnight, which one would it be?
19. What’s one TV show or movie you think everyone should watch?
20. If you could instantly teleport to any place right now, where would it be?
21. What’s a fun memory that always makes you smile?

Quirky questions

1. What’s a conspiracy theory you actually find interesting?
2. If you had to describe your last meal in three words, what would they be?
3. If you could only wear one colour for the rest of your life, what would it be?
4. What’s the most ridiculous thing you’ve ever spent money on?
5. If your life had a theme song, what would it be?
6. What’s your weirdest talent?
7. If you could swap lives with a fictional character for a day, who would it be?
8. What’s your ultimate karaoke song?
9. If you could have dinner with any celebrity, dead or alive, who would it be?
10. What’s one meme-slang you refuse to stop using?

Questions for networking and work events

1. What inspired you to get into your line of work?
2. What’s a productivity tip you swear by?
3. What’s an industry trend that excites you?
4. What’s one job you’d love to try for a day?
5. What’s the most exciting project you’re working on right now?
6. What’s one workplace habit that has made your life easier?
7. What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
8. If you could instantly master any skill, what would it be?
9. If you could have lunch with one leader in your industry, who would it be?
10. What’s one piece of work-related wisdom you live by?
11. What do you enjoy most about your job?
12. What’s the best work-related book or podcast you’ve come across?
13. How do you stay motivated on tough workdays?
14. How do you approach professional networking—do you enjoy it or find it challenging?
15. What’s a work-related accomplishment you’re really proud of?
16. Have you ever had a mentor? What’s the best advice they gave you?
17. How do you handle difficult conversations or workplace conflicts?
18. What’s your take on work-life balance—do you think it’s achievable?
19. If you could create the perfect job for yourself, what would it be?
20. If you could work with any company or brand in the world, which one would it be?

Pop culture questions

1. What’s the best TV show you’ve watched this year?
2. Is there any current internet discourse you just can’t understand?
3. If you could reboot any TV show, which one would it be?
4. What’s your all-time favourite movie scene?
5. What’s a book that completely changed how you think?
6. If you could star in any movie, which one would it be?
7. Do you have any guilty pleasure movies?
8. What’s your favourite song to sing?
9. If you could meet any musician, who would it be?
10. What’s the last song you had stuck in your head?

Deep and thoughtful questions

1. What’s something you’ve learned about yourself recently?
2. If you woke up and found out the world was going to end in a week, how would you spend it?
3. What’s one belief or opinion you’ve changed your mind about?
4. If you could have a conversation with your younger self, what advice would you give?
5. What’s a cause or issue that you’re passionate about?
6. What’s your idea of a fulfilling life?
7. If money weren’t a factor, how would you spend your time?
8. What’s something you’ve done this year that you’re really proud of?
9. What’s a moment in your life that you’ll never forget?
10. How do you define happiness?
11. What’s one fear that you overcame, and how did you do it?
12. If you had to write a letter to your future self, what would it say?
13. What’s a core value that guides your decisions in life?
14. If you could relive one moment from your past, which one would it be?
15. What’s one thing you’ve always wanted to say to someone but never did?
16. How do you personally define success, and has that definition changed over time?
17. What’s a challenge you faced that made you stronger?
18. If you could only be remembered for one thing, what would you want it to be?
19. What does personal growth mean to you, and how do you actively work toward it?
20. When in your life have you felt the most at peace?

Random and unexpected questions

1. If you had a time machine, what era would you visit?
2. What’s the most interesting fun fact you know?
3. If you had to describe yourself in three words, what would they be?
4. If your pet could talk, what’s the first thing they’d say?
5. What’s one thing you’ve always wanted to try but never have?
6. If you could live in any fictional universe, where would it be?
7. What’s one mystery in history you wish you knew the answer to?
8. What’s the best compliment you’ve ever received?
9. If your pet turned into a human for a day, would they like having you as their pet?
10. What’s something you’re currently learning?
11. Do you believe in fate or free will?
12. What’s a quote you live by?
13. If you could make one wish right now, what would it be?
14. What’s your most used emoji?
15. Do you believe in luck?
16. What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever gotten?
17. What’s a random act of kindness that made your day?
18. What’s a small thing that instantly makes your day better?
19. If you had to describe your personality as a weather forecast, what would it be?

Dating in your 30s hits different. I’m sorry to say it, but it just does. It’s not because your face suddenly starts to sag and you wake up covered in scales. Nor is it because coupled-up friends start looking at you with sad eyes. It’s not even necessarily because you feel an instantaneous urge to become a mother and start hearing a strangely loud ticking sound wherever you go.

It’s none of the clichéd things, actually. At least it hasn’t been for me since I turned 30 in May, a fully fledged single woman without even a situationship to show for herself. I had nobody and nothing on the go; the roster was completely clear. And let me tell you: it felt fantastic.

Since then, the whole experience of dating has taken place in a different part of my brain, one that has far more awareness and compassion, as well as a lower threshold for games. Call it maturity, growth or the fact that I’ve now been writing about this stuff for the better part of a decade, I don’t mind (so long as you don’t call it old age). Whatever it is, my single friends and I have entered this new era with a spring in our step when it comes to our love lives.

Gone are the insecurities that kept us tolerating flakiness and mixed messages, thinking we deserved no better. If a person we like lets us down, we don’t eviscerate them in the group chat and start posting warnings across social media. We simply move on, taking comfort in the knowledge they weren’t right for us. And if someone starts communicating exclusively in bird impressions over dinner, we’re out of there faster than you can say “twit twoo”. (This happened recently to a friend.)

I’m not saying dating in your 30s is perfect. But since leaving my 20s, there has been a notable perspective shift that has made dating feel a lot more fun than it used to be. So, after doing some serious crowdsourcing among my single pals, I’d like to share some of the biggest lessons we’re taking into our dating lives as 30-somethings. Sure, it’s still early days, and in a few weeks, all of this might well go to pot courtesy of some 6’4” creative director with a Mubi subscription and an avoidant attachment style. But let’s try to be optimistic for once.

Don’t date for the plot

This is something I used to do a lot in my 20s. Don’t get me wrong, dating for the sake of a good story (or, ahem, article) has its appeal: it can be sexually satisfying, you feel liberated knowing emotions aren’t at stake, and you rack up an impressive amount of anecdotes ready to wheel out at any social gathering whenever conversation runs dry. The thing is, it gets old fast. It doesn’t serve you in the long-run to treat dating with such flippancy. Take it from the girl who once found herself doing shots of tequila at 9am with a man who booty-called her after a night out. I went for the plot. I left with a midday hangover.

Ask people what they’re looking for immediately—and listen to them

None of this beating around the bush in fear of scaring someone away. As adults, everyone is well within their right to ask the person they’re dating what their intentions are right off the bat. And if that freaks them out, good riddance. Are they looking for something casual? That’s great: you can decide if that’s something you’re up for. If they’re after something more serious, even better: you can travel down that path together with that in mind and see how things develop. If they’re unsure, that’s where you can run into trouble. As the old adage goes: “If they like you, you’ll know. If they don’t, you’ll feel confused.” Don’t let anyone waste your time because they’re still figuring themselves out.

Don’t date actors

To all the actors I’ve loved before: please don’t take this one personally. You’re all great, really. But after extensive field research, I wholeheartedly believe it’s in everyone’s best interest if you stay away from us muggles and focus on dating each other. With a flair for the dramatic and a requirement to be professionally charismatic, you’re much better equipped to deal with your own kind. It’s best I don’t expand on this one too much. Non-actors: you’ll thank me later.

Don’t let your dating life be the only thing you talk about

“I feel like I’m performing every time I see them,” a single friend recently lamented about her recent interactions with some married pals who, upon seeing her, immediately started begging for stories about her “wild” dating life. “It’s like that’s my entire personality to them,” she sighed. After pointing this out, the married friends apologised and they resumed talking about other, arguably more interesting, topics. But I think putting on “the single show” is a trap all of us can fall into. If dating is all we’re ever talking about, we wind up neglecting other parts of our lives and putting too much onus on the pursuit of romantic love. Coupled up or not, all of us are so much more than our love lives.

Be patient with people

The ick has gone too far. Nobody deserves to be written off for dangling their feet off a stool, snorting when they laugh or having long fingernails. Grow up. The problem is that we’re far too quick to dismiss the people we’re dating over minor grievances (blame disposable dating app culture), and as a result, aren’t giving anyone a proper chance. Also, I’m convinced that if you actually like someone, those little things you might consider icks can quickly metastasize into the very things you find most endearing about them.

Have fun on your own

It’s important not to see singlehood as a waiting room. Shortly after a break-up in 2022, I travelled to Greece on my own for a weeklong solo holiday, and it was one of the most empowering things I’ve ever done. You don’t need a partner to go on that trip or eat at that restaurant. You’re an adult and can (and should) do these things on your own, regardless of your relationship status. Try it and cherish every moment.

Be careful how you talk about the people you’re dating

The narrative you create around someone you’re dating will stick, so choose your words carefully. In a moment of anxiety, you might say something you don’t mean, only for your best mate to cling to it, using it to undermine how you feel when things are going well again.

Question the story you’re telling yourself

I’ve wasted hours needlessly agonising over the behaviour of men I’ve dated. He didn’t reply to my WhatsApps all day? It must be because he’s met someone else and has spent the afternoon in bed with them laughing about my Instagram captions. He didn’t watch my Instagram Story within the hour? He’s on the Eurostar about to propose to the 24-year-old woman he’s been secretly dating this entire time. He’s running 20 minutes late and my messages aren’t delivering? He died and his wife terminated his phone contract. This is nothing more than insecurity paired with an over-active imagination. Don’t let it get the better of you. Instead, take a deep breath, go to therapy, and maybe consider writing a novel.

Focus on choosing rather than being chosen

It’s so easy to get caught up in obsessing over whether or not someone fancies us that we often forget to think about whether we actually fancy them. This is essentially how I spent all of 2023: playing kiss-chase with a bunch of boys I was so desperately trying to impress that I didn’t even bother to stop and wonder if I was impressed by any of them. I made a lot of bad decisions that year.

Don’t put someone who delivers the bare minimum on a pedestal

Just because someone isn’t a raging narcissist doesn’t mean they’re your future spouse. The first good egg you date after a series of terrible experiences could well be a lovely person. But be wary of deifying them too early on; you’ll wind up conflating the person they are with a fantasised version in your head that’s impossible to live up to. In other words: don’t start looking at wedding venues because someone asked you a few questions.

And finally, take your own advice

I really should do this more.

When Dua Lipa was first pictured wearing a diamond ring on the fourth finger of her left hand in December, speculation around her potential engagement to actor boyfriend Callum Turner reached fever pitch. While neither party has publicly addressed the rumours, the couple’s impossibly romantic display under the Eiffel Tower during Couture Week did nothing to dispel them. Still, one imagines that the pop star’s commitment to wearing said ring on that finger is all the confirmation we’ll be getting right now.

Whether official or not, Dua’s ring – believed to be an 18-carat yellow-gold band with a two-carat diamond, estimated to be worth around £30,000 – is definitely trending in 2025. “I think the replacement of fine bands and delicate claw settings with chunky engagement designs speaks to the shift in people seeking rings that feel both more contemporary, and wearable,” London-based jeweller Kitty Fuller – whose chunky rings are a signature of her brand Kitty Joyas – tells Vogue.

As we’ve seen a shift towards the celebration of eclectic personal style in recent years, it makes sense that people are moving away from the classic solitaire ring. “I love the bold, sculptural aesthetic of them,” says fellow London-based fine jeweller and goldsmith Jessie Thomas of the rise of the chunky engagement ring. “They feel more unique and make for a cool, wearable statement piece, yet remain timeless.”

Jessie Thomas’s 18-carat gold and two-carat cushion-cut Bombe ring.

Courtesy of Jessie Thomas

Kitty Joyas’s custom diamond and pink sapphire engagement ring.

Courtesy of Kitty Joyas

Although the chunky engagement ring trend may seem like an alternative choice nowadays, the style actually dates back to the Victorian era. “The gemstone is embedded into the band – as opposed to claw-set, which was very much the style at the time – creating a flush surface,” Thomas continues, noting that it’s a less showy way of setting a larger stone, making it more suitable for everyday wear. “The design was, and continues to be, extremely appealing for its practicality and durability, with the flush setting protecting the gemstone from wear and tear.”

Fast forward to today, and wearers are choosing to put a modern take on the style. “Dua’s ring features a half-set diamond with open sides which feels very cool and modern,” Thomas notes. Meanwhile, Fuller – who is the proud owner of her own chunky engagement ring, which she unwittingly designed for herself – has found that an increasing number of clients are opting for coloured gemstones, too. “Diamonds definitely remain the most popular stone choice, but I’ve seen a real uplift in people being open to adding coloured gemstones next to their diamonds as a way of reflecting their personality, or upcycling heirloom stones that they inherited,” she explains.

When it comes to Indian Dresses, few outfits are as universally loved and versatile as the Kurta Pajama. Worn by men across the country, from weddings to casual outings, the kurta has become synonymous with comfort, style, and elegance. One of the most important factors that affect the look and feel of a Kurta Pajama is the fabric. From light cotton to luxurious silk, the fabric you choose can transform your kurta into something special.

At Nihal Fashions, we offer a wide range of fabrics for your perfect Kurta Pajama, whether you’re looking for something comfortable for a sunny day or elegant for a wedding. In this blog, we’ll explore the different fabrics used for kurta pajamas, their advantages, and how to choose the right one for your occasion and comfort.

Ananya Panday has recently been embracing her role as a part-time baraati and serving striking Indian wear ensembles. Ananya Panday’s recent outing saw her in a dust-pink chikankari sari paired with a gold corset blouse replete with mirror work. The off-shoulder sleeves also featured strings of mirrors. The phool sari is by homegrown label Itrh—a brand slowly becoming synonymous with wedding-guest ensembles.

As for Ananya Panday’s look, the Lucknowi sari boasts delicate hand embroidery, punctuated with long-mirror tassels in gold to balance the otherwise subdued palette. For stylist Priyanka Kapadia, who has consistently partnered with Panday to represent her individualistic style, the memo seemed to be clear: romantic and maximal Indian wear.

The corset blouse with mirror work was paired with a Sunita Shekhawat polki-kundan necklace with emerald accents covering most of her neck and matching earrings. She opted for a pink daisy gajra and nude makeup to complete the look.

Priyanka Chopra Jonas is all over our Instagram feeds celebrating her brother’s wedding. True to her impactful form, the star opted for Indian designers from Rahul Mishra to Anita Dongre and more during the ongoing pre-wedding festivities.

For the haldi ceremony, dressed in a bright yellow Anita Dongre lehenga, she embraced minimal glam with a clean base and soft matte brown lips. Her eye makeup featured a soft brown eyeshadow on her lids, generous coats of mascara, and minimal faux lashes. A subtle wash of bronzer and peach-toned blush added a natural flush to her cheeks. Defined arched brows and a deep brown lip completed her ensemble. Her hair was styled in soft waves in a half-up ponytail falling loose over her shoulder. She accessorised with statement jhumkas, a necklace, a crystal micro bindi and yellow glass bangles.

For mehendi, the Chopra Jonas opted for a floral corset gown by Rahul Mishra, paired with a pink diamond Bvlgari necklace. Her makeup leaned into shimmer and glow with pink and gold eyeshadow, lots of mascara and well-defined brows. A warm sunset blush blended in peach, with a touch of highlighter, added a natural glow to her cheeks and she completed the look with semi-matte peach-pink lipstick.

Forget 14th February, Khushi Kapoor is serving Galentine’s Day inspiration in a white lace dress this week. Simone Ashley, Olivia Rodrigo and more stars are putting their own spin on romantic dressing to bookmark for your girl dinners.

Khushi Kapoor is ushering in the rom-com dressing for 2025, delivering multiple looks that fit the bill. Most recently, she slipped into a floral dress with a Victorian-era influence—wearing a delicate handmade knitwear dress from Lacemade featuring a romantic ruffled hem, and drawstring shoulder sleeves that blend vintage charm with a modern sensibility. Bringing out the soft, feminine side for Galentine’s Day, she completed the look with a dainty heart-shaped locket and matching earrings.

If your plans call for something unfussy yet statement-worthy, Aditi Rao Hydari’s latest look can help. She opted for a denim jumpsuit by Ani Clothing with a deep neckline, and gold-button details striking the right balance, while the wide-leg fit kept it relaxed—ideal for a day that revolves around food and friends.

The best date night perfumes are the final step in getting ready for a night out with a special someone (yourself or a partner). Consider it the finishing touch of a fantastic outfit, an invisible accessory. When you put it on, it boosts your confidence. Sexy and flirtatious scents are always up for interpretation, with the key factor being you—attraction is entirely subjective.

From florals to smoky, tobacco-infused notes, sensual spices, and mysterious animalistic musk variations, shop the best date night perfumes, according to Vogue editors and experts.

Vogue’s Favorite Date Night Perfumes

• Best Modern Vanilla: Henry Rose Dave, ₹12,000.00
• Best Bright Citrus: Vilhelm Parfumerie Room Service Eau de Parfum, ₹19,500.00
• Best White Floral: Parfums de Marly Delina Eau de Parfum, ₹23,500.00
• Best Musk: Frederic Malle Musc Ravageur, ₹37,000.00
• Best for Daytime Dates: Diptyque Orphéon, ₹24,000.00
• Best Boozy Scent: Perfumehead La La Love, ₹25,000.00
• Best Affordable Yet Flirty: Boy Smells Flor de la Virgen Eau de Parfum, ₹9,800.00

Best With Patchouli: Chanel Coco Mademoiselle Eau de Parfum Intense

Coco Mademoiselle Eau de Parfum Intense Spray

• Why We Love It: For the elegant Charlotte York type willing to spice things up a bit, look no further than Coco Mademoiselle. Fresh yet bold, Coco Mademoiselle is the younger, cool little sister of Chanel No. 5—and ideal for someone who likes a hyper-feminine fragrance with a bit of a mischievous twist. The initial note from the first spritz is a vibrant orange, followed by a blossoming burst of florals and a balanced, unexpected edge of patchouli and vetiver.
• Key Notes: Orange, bergamot, rose, jasmine, iris, ylang-ylang, patchouli, tonka bean, vanilla, white musk, amber, cedarwood

Best Modern Vanilla: Henry Rose Dave

• Why We Love It: Michelle Pfeiffer’s clean fragrance brand, Henry Rose, recently launched an utterly delicious scent. Dave (endearingly named after Pfeiffer’s husband) is a seductive vanilla layered with delicate neroli notes wrapped with cocoa shells and tonka bean. The rich, grown-up gourmand has a bold entrance that warms down to something more intimate and decadent—an essential fragrance if you want to smell absolutely delicious. In fact, I recently spritzed myself at the office with this perfume, only to be showered with near-immediate compliments from everyone nearby asking: “Someone smells amazing. Is it you?”
• Key Notes: Tangerine heart, neroli, pink pepper, lavandin, orange flower, almond blossom, vanilla bean chantilly, cocoa shell, tonka bean

Best Citrus: Vilhelm Parfumerie Room Service Eau de Parfum

Room Service Eau de Parfum

• Why We Love It: Vilhelm Parfumerie never fails to have the most creative inspirations for their fragrances—and this one just happens to be Greta Garbo’s rose bath at the Carlyle Hotel. Evoking the ambiance of a luxurious night in a candlelit bathroom jacuzzi with bright citrus and florals colliding with warm water. So, who needs a date with someone else, when you can lavishly treat yourself?
• Key Notes: Mandarin nectar, blackberry, pink orchid, sandalwood, bamboo, violet, black amber, musk

Best Boozy Scent: Perfumehead La La Love

La La Love Extrait de Parfum

• Why We Love It: La La Love is a seductive gourmand that’s an ode to wild nights out in Los Angeles, blending animalistic notes of musk with woody scents and comforting vanilla absolute. Topping off the fragrance, boozy cognac and amber create a mysterious, moody lingering trail—like lipstick from a Kate Moss–esque femme fatale on a cigarette bummed from a Hedi Slimane–type fashion boy.
• Key Notes: Cognac, saffron, davana, nutmeg, vanilla absolute, sandalwood, black tea, incense, peru balsam, tonka bean, smoked amber, musk

Best Splurge: Maison Francis Kurkdjian Baccarat Rouge 540 Eau de Parfum

Baccarat Rouge 540 Eau de Parfum

• Why We Love It: This luxuriously intoxicating scent is iconic for a reason—it’s the ultimate prestige fragrance. The bold scent blends jasmine, ambergris, and cedar mesh so well that the scent trail lingers for hours after the initial spritz, thanks to its highly condensed formulation. Considered universally flattering for all, ambroxan offers balanced, woody facets accentuated by saffron.
• Key Notes: Jasmine, saffron, cedarwood, ambergris

Best White Floral: Parfums de Marly Delina Eau de Parfum

Delina Eau de Parfum

Neiman Marcus
₹ 37,500.00

• Why We Love It: If Sofia Coppola’s perfectly pink archive book was a perfume, it would absolutely be Delina. This fragrance evokes opulence with notes of Turkish rose swirling together with rhubarb, nutmeg, and musk for a scent that’s as flirtatious as it is feminine. Known for it’s impeccable staying power, a trail of fragrance will be left behind no matter where you saunter. Best of all, the rococo inspired bottle makes the perfect decoration on any vanity, with ornate tassels wrapping around the cap.
• Key Notes: Rhubarb, lychee, bergamot essence, Turkish rose

Best Cherry: YSL Beauty Black Opium Eau de Parfum Over Red

Black Opium Eau de Parfum Over Red

• Why We Love It: If you’ve been avoiding cherry-based fragrances due to lingering memories of syrupy, cough medicine-like scents, YSL Beauty’s new interpretation of Black Opium will completely change your perspective. Unlike the overly sweet, medicinal cherry notes that might have turned you off in the past, this scent features a sophisticated, juicy cherry accord that is balanced by rich coffee and warm vanilla. It’s the ideal fragrance for those who want a cherry scent that’s elevated, refined, and entirely wearable.
• Key Notes: Coffee accord, cherry accord, white flowers, vanilla infusion

Best Musk: Frédéric Malle Musc Ravageur

Musc Ravageur Eau de Parfum

• Why We Love It: Frédéric Malle’s Musc Ravageur is an undeniably sexy unisex fragrance that blends animalistic notes with resinous amber and cinnamon. Nothing smells quite like this fragrance, which evokes Tom Ford–era Gucci in the ’90s: super-sensual and utterly cool. “Musc Ravageur by Frédéric Malle was created by master perfumer Maurice Roucel. It deservedly was the Hall of Fame winner at The Fragrance Foundation Awards during the pandemic and it became a favorite date perfume since. I wear it as often as possible,” Fragrance Foundation President Linda G. Levy tells Vogue.
• Key Notes: Bergamot, mandarin, cinnamon, vanilla, tonka beans, sandalwood, amber, musk

Best Niche: The Maker Lover Eau de Parfum

• Why We Love It: When looking for an idyllic date night perfume, one called Lover seemingly hits the sweet spot—quite literally, as this fragrance slowly reveals itself to be a hypnotic blend of black pepper and fig balanced by animalistic and woody notes. “My coworker Conçetta tested this perfume at her desk, and I immediately had to try it myself, smelling it from a full desk row away,” says Vogue app community manager Sam Ravin. “Later, when I got home after work, my boyfriend said I smelled amazing and loved whatever perfume I wore.” Do we need to explain further why you should add this fragrance to your cart?
• Key Notes: Madagascar black pepper, fig, gurjun balsam, vanilla, narcissus, suede, jasmine sambac, cedarwood, oud, vetiver, white sandalwood, musk

Best for Daytime Dates: Diptyque Orphéon

• Why We Love It: Diptyque’s bestselling fragrance is an ode to Paris in the ’60s. Named after a local jazz bar of the same name, the Orphéon was filled with interesting creatives and this is an olfactory portrait of the legendary location. The woody fragrance evokes feelings of being immersed in a dimly lit bar lined with burnished dark wooden tables and plush velvet seating. “This is my favorite scent for a daytime date, and my husband often wears it, as well,” Levy tells Vogue.
• Key Notes: Juniper berry, cedarwood, tonka bean, jasmine

Best Marshmallow: Killian Love, Don’t Be Shy

Love Don’t Be Shy Eau de Parfum

Saks Fifth Avenue
₹ 45,000.00

$450$382

SAKS FIFTH AVENUE

• Why We Love It: While it’s never been officially confirmed that Love, Don’t Be Shy is Rihanna’s signature scent, it’s been widly speculated as such online for some time now—with supporting evidence from beauty influencer Jackie Aina who suspected as much after meeting the superstar, and recognizing the familiar, powdery scent. Opening with a burst of orange blossom, the scent dries down to a sophisticated mixture of sugary marshmallow, and warm neroli.
• Key Notes: Neroli, orange blossom, marshmallow sugar accord

Best Tobacco: Tom Ford Tobacco Vanille

• Why We Love It: Tom Ford’s Tobacco Vanille blends two opposites: smoky tobacco and the comforting warmth of vanilla. At the heart of the scent composition is tobacco—smoky, leathery, and animalistic with a subtle sweetness. The scent is a deeply sensual, spice-forward, unisex fragrance that’s both sophisticated and mysterious. Best of all, according to an older British Vogue article, this is allegedly Harry Style’s favorite fragrance. Say less!
• Key Notes: Tobacco leaf, vanilla, cacao, dried fruits, spice, cedar

Best Rose: Narciso Rodriguez Musc Noir Rose for Her Eau de Parfum

Musc Noir Rose For Her Eau de Parfum

• Why We Love It: “Musc Noir by Narciso Rodriguez is a fabulous sexy floral,” Levy tells Vogue. Musc Noir takes the essence of the original For Her fragrance by Rodriguez—yet this fragrance has a deeper, more intensely sensual edge. At its heart, the fragrance opens with the rich sweetness of plum, seamlessly blending into the softness of heliotrope and a sultry leather suede note.
• Key Notes: Plum, pink pepper, bergamot, musk, rose, tuberose, vanilla

Best Affordable Yet Flirty: Boy Smells Flor de la Virgen Eau de Parfum

• Why We Love It: For an affordable yet flirtatious, high-performing fragrance, look no further than Boy Smells. Flor de La Virgin is one of its most energetic scents, blending the delicate femininity of jasmine with heady musks. All in all, the scent exudes a resinous, mildly floral, citrus and spice scent, refreshing enough to wear from day to night without being adolescent.
• Key Notes: Pomelo, saffron, lemon rind, ivy leaves, jasmine petals, olibanum, musk, ambrox

What makes a date night perfume?

“A date night perfume is a fragrance that truly completes your look, your mood, makes you feel confident, and at your best,” explains Levy. “I am fortunate to enjoy wearing fragrances every day for every occasion for every mood, including for date nights at home or out with my fave date, my husband.” The ultimate expert when it comes to the wonderful world of fragrance, Levy helps to break down the most popular notes when picking the best date night perfume.

• Rose: A favorite, rose evokes a classic olfactory representation of romance
• Floral Variations: Florals appeal to a broad audience, ranging in personality. They can be worn be worn at all times of the day depending on its intensity.
• Vanilla: A popular note in many fragrances, vanilla adds a sweet and sultry hint (while making you smell delicious).
• Oud and Spice: Notes of oud, or spice-forward variations add a mysterious aura to a fragrance, and work well for evening dates.

How to Pick a Date Night Perfume

There are no formal rules or steps when picking a date night perfume. Since the concept of what’s sexy is entirely subjective, it’s all about discovering your own personal preferences and what makes you feel your best. “Date night fragrances can cover a wide range of scent ingredients. It all depends on how the fragrance makes you feel when you wear it. This is where a wardrobe of fragrances works best,” recommends Levy.

This story first appeared on Vogue.com

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The director tells me that it’s the “first day of my life in India, which I’ve been waiting for an eternity, and you are my first interview.” This news should ideally bring me joy, which it has, but I now realise that I can’t ask him anything about India. I have a list of questions ready, the usual mix of clichés and the unexpected: Did you see the Gateway of India? How was the vada pao? Did you lose some of your sanity in Mumbai’s unrelenting traffic? All these questions are irrelevant if I’m the first person he is chatting with on his very first day here. Then, he throws me a lifeline, which I cling to for dear life: A meeting with Satyajit Ray in 1973 at the Berlin Film Festival when Ray won the Golden Lion for Ashani Sanket (Distant Thunder), a film about the devastating 1943 famine of Bengal, told through the eyes of a selfish Brahmin man and his compassionate wife.

“He had won the Berlin Film Festival with a thunderstorm, and I was very nervous to even approach him when he was standing in the lobby of the festival theatre, drinking his coffee,” Wenders says. “He was very gentle with me and took time to answer all my questions, and I even have a photograph to prove it—the two of us in deep conversation. I can’t find it anywhere now; it’s probably in some archive box.”

The conversation was about Ray’s films, particularly how he used light and music as characters. Wenders had seen most of his movies at the Cinémathèque Française in Paris, where he moved to in 1966 with dreams of becoming a painter. Instead, he ended up spending countless, obsessive hours at the Cinémathèque, sometimes watching more than four movies a day, every day, immersing himself in the works of auteurs like Jean-Luc Godard, François Truffaut, Howard Hawks and Ray. Some of the Indian films he saw had subtitles in “funky” languages he could never understand.

Alice in the Cities (1974)