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Its outer celadon green façade is unmissable as you pass by the Byculla zoo. Its offerings and artefacts have been a cornerstone of Mumbai’s cultural scene since its mammoth restoration in 2008. The Dr. Bhau Daji Lad Museum in Mumbai, formerly known as the Victoria & Albert Museum, was the first building in India to be built for the purpose of a museum when its construction began in 1862. “It is a quiet, beautiful, safe space of stories,” says Tasneem Zakaria Mehta, managing trustee and director of the museum, and previously the convener of INTACH’s Mumbai chapter that led that restoration project. “It’s the kind of place where you can slow down, have real conversations and discover something new about the world and about each other.”

After a two-and-a-half-year hiatus for post-Covid renovations, the museum reopened to the public this January with the exhibition Cartographies of the Unseen by Reena Saini Kallat (curated by Mehta) that explored the idea of man-made borders and the manipulation of nature. This was followed by Eckart Muthesius and Manik Bagh: Pioneering Modernism in India, curated by Raffael Dedo Gadebusch of the Asian Art Museum, Berlin. The museum is soon going to host exhibitions celebrating 100 years of the Art Deco movement, along with shows by Sameer Kulavoor (this November), Archana Hande (next January) and Himali Singh Soin.

It turns out that there are a lot of us. More than I assumed. While researching for this piece, I discovered that people mute others for reasons that are even more unhinged than my own. A friend of mine mutes people if they post too many dogs, meals and/or babies. “I want to be entertained,” she reasons. It doesn’t help that, during this era of handing out our Instagram handles in the way prior generations handed out phone numbers, our feeds are now clogged with acquaintances whose content we might not even enjoy. “It’s become an A to Z of everyone I’ve ever met,” this aforementioned friend says. “But if you unfollow, it’s rude.”

Plenty of people I speak to say they’ve muted exes, ex flings and people they’ve “shagged once but built up an unhealthy resentment towards after being parred.” I haven’t done this myself, but I can understand the urge. Sometimes the reasons we mute people aren’t because we don’t like them, or even their posts, but because seeing them makes us feel a certain way. “I have muted ex partners so I don’t get tempted to think about them too much,” one person tells me, “even if we are friendly enough to still be on Instagram with each other.”

Politics came up a lot as a reason for muting: Too much politics. Politics that people don’t align with. Too many political infographics making the same points to followers who probably have the same views as them. For some, social media can feel like a powerful tool in which to have their voices heard en masse in ways they can’t in real life. For others, political posting can feel futile, performative or even jarring, “like having the news on your phone” as one person tells me. I’ve probably been guilty of the aforementioned. ‘Am I muted on Instagram for the same reason by other people?’ I wondered.

In fact, the more I thought about my own muting habits, and spoke to others about theirs (“If I feel a pang of anything I cut it out of the feed,” one person tells me. “Whether it’s a bit cringe, or something approaching envy or comparison, or just too much ‘look at me’ content”), I realise that the reasons are so arbitrary, so “on the fly”, that I’ve probably inspired a few mutes myself—if I’m lucky. Maybe you have too. “Okay, fess up, who’s muted me?!” I could post on my Stories in the unhinged tone that probably got me a few mutes in the first place. Except, those who the question is directed at wouldn’t hear me. As is their divine right.

Vests are a garment that enhances your look. This accessory, which usually elevates a style, occupies the position of the third garment that goes over blouses or shirts. However, sometimes it can become the main piece. Vests can enhance a simple combination and lend it personality, as well as determine the wearer’s style and incidentally dictate the occasion of use.

Vests in this season are essential and you can make the most of them. And the fact is that at the beginning of the mid-season, the possibilities of style increase, because it is a time of weather that allows you to play with different combinations and at the same time maintain that freedom that we bring from the summer. While multiple looks might be coming to guide the season, you will only really need a vest to keep the place of best dressed.

We’ve spotlighted seven standout vests for the season—and with so many variations, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. The runways set the tone, with Brunello Cucinelli, Alberta Ferretti, Chloé and Etro championing designs that quickly rose to dominance. But the influence doesn’t stop there—street style has been just as decisive in shaping which vests will truly lead the season, as this guide (complete with styling inspiration) makes clear.

Leather vest

Acielle / StyleDuMonde.

Cosmic tip: Stop trying to be everywhere and choose to be where you want to be instead.

This phase in your life is asking you to move on. This phase is asking you to turn over a new leaf and perhaps even strike that balance where you are not really as bothered about all that has drifted away, but are looking at and cherishing what is becoming of your life and yourself, even your closest relationships. Sag, you have already spread your wings and the winds in your life may be unearthing certain wounds; however, at this point in your life, you need to remind yourself that the burning towers in your past do not define your future. Instead, your vision and passion do.

Cosmic tip: New opportunities await only if you dare to take a leap and stay focused.

You may want to look out for everyone and you may, in many ways, be the mothership of your tribe or immediate setting—be it at work or anywhere else. And Capricorn, your perceptiveness is what makes you unique and strong. Your guides jump in to let you know that you are not imagining things, and neither are you overthinking. You are picking up vibes and this is what you need to learn to trust. Your grounded approach, coupled with your inventiveness and grit when it comes to finding solutions and ways out is your winning move. Stay on track.

Cosmic tip: Things are looking up! This is the end of a tough phase.

Channel your passionate, wild side in a practical, focused manner, Aquarius, for you to effectively not only put an end to an old narrative but also turn over a new leaf in your life. Your memories from your childhood or past may be surfacing and perhaps you may catch yourself also reminiscing about the good old times. But here is the thing—your present situation needs immediate attention and focus. While you could draw a golden nugget or two from your past, you must remember that staying stuck there may not be the place where you find your solutions.

Cosmic tip: You have got this, right where you are at now.

Missed opportunities, looking back at where you once wished you were but you are presently not, or perhaps even reflecting upon the wondrous route your life has taken on, Pisces, you are here in this very moment and the cosmos wants you to wake up and feel grateful for all that lies ahead. Some of you may be in the in-between phase of life and some of you may also be at the brink of a new beginning. However, remember that the only way forward is through love, intuition and kindness. You are entering the soft era in your life and you are doing pretty well.

Cosmic tip: Look forward to the happier times that lie ahead.

In the hills of Sittilingi, Tamil Nadu, a language nearly vanished. Lambadi embroidery, once practised across many southern states, had thinned to the memory of a few. At the Porgai Artisans Association, co-led by Dr Lalitha Regi, the tradition was held close and coaxed back.

Visible/Invisible: In Sittilingi, the artisans of Porgai have woven a dream to preserve and nurture the precious ecosystem of the valley.

A couple of years ago, 10 of their women artisans came together for a rare four-month residency at the Porgai centre, to treat the craft as art and to empower the artisans through the freedom and liberty of creation. For most, it was their first time working uninterrupted by domestic duties. What emerged were 26 embroidered artworks, all deeply personal and richly observed.

Neela stitched her ancestral memory of water collection: women digging into the sandbank by the stream, waiting for spring water to surface, covering clay pots with traditional ganno textiles, pausing to give water to cattle before heading home. Another piece told of marriage customs passed down orally—feasts served on banana leaves, bullock carts, tamarind trees lit by hurricane lamps, freshly whitewashed homes (which tend to look blue) and a daughter’s worth exchanged for two fine bullocks. Some stitched aspirations—gold, never used in tradition, appeared in Lavanya’s work to reflect changing desires. Despite mobility issues, Neela rode a bus daily to complete her piece. “I am keeping the memory of my ancestors alive,” she says. The residency formed a bond between the artists and previous generations—they listened to their stories and paralleled their own into each creation, speaking for the community. An articulation of lived knowledge.

Communal Thread: The artisans from the Porgai Artisans Association depict tales of lived memory through their works—Life in Our ValleyDr Pravin Singarayar P; Melanie Hinds; Courtesy of Porgai Artists Association

Kantha is one of India’s oldest stitches. A simple running thread technique, used for over a thousand years by women in West Bengal to join worn-out fabric into quilts. At She Kantha, an organisation working with thousands of artisans across the region, just like the embroidery, the leadership too has been passed down through three generations. From Shamlu Dudeja to her daughter Malika to her granddaughter Mahima. One of their artisans, Chandana, spent five years quietly stitching a tribute to her grandfather, a freedom fighter. As a child, she used to sit beside him, listening to his stories about colonial rule, village life and the complex roles of women in that
era. Around a central mandala, she stitched a forgiveness prayer to her ancestors.

She goes on to say that one protein bar a day is generally fine for most people. For those who are very active or struggling to meet their protein goals, she says that two might work. But be sure not to use protein bars as complete meal replacements.

What is the healthiest protein bar?

This depends on what your health goals are. In general, the healthiest protein bars are the ones that are made with whole food, minimally processed ingredients, limited added sugar and high-quality protein content (and added bonus if they have fibre, says Dieras).

“I would limit bars with excessive fat and sugar added,” she says. “Look for bars with more whole food ingredients, and avoid artificial ingredients like sweeteners, flavours, colours or preservatives.”

What are protein bars good for?

Other than providing you with protein and other nutrients, one of the biggest benefits of a protein bar is convenience. It’s an easy and healthy snack for when you’re hungry, and it can easily help you achieve your protein goals. “A protein bar is a good way to supplement (not substitute) protein intake,” says Dieras. “They are helpful when you are not able to consume whole meals or used to increase protein to achieve a goal.”

Protein bars are also known to help with muscle mass growth recovery as a post-workout snack. So something to think about if you’re training.

What are the drawbacks of protein bars?

While protein bars make for convenient snacks, experts say to be super careful when picking which ones to eat. Some are made with saturated fats, and Manaker says that a lot of protein bars actually have high amounts of added sugar (think high fructose corn syrup, etc) and can be calorie-dense. Dieras agrees and adds that eating too many protein bars may lead to digestive issues, dehydration and unwanted weight gain.

Are there any other considerations when choosing a protein bar?

As mentioned above, the best protein bar for you is the one that works best with your health goals. Manaker says to consider asking yourself questions like “Are you trying to curb hunger?” or “Are you trying to build muscle post-workout?” The answers to these will help narrow down your choices.

She adds that you’ll also want to be cognisant of any added sugar, as you don’t want to increase your blood sugar levels. Instead, opt for ones that are as low in sugar as possible without tasting bad and looking for a bar with some fibre to help keep you full and support your gut health wouldn’t hurt either.

Dieras recommends letting the nutrition label be your guide, as it will show you a breakdown of the macronutrients, fat, carbs and protein it has. From there, you can decide if it will help with your personal goals. And most importantly, you need to actually like the type of protein you’re consuming. She says that looking at the bar’s protein source will help determine whether you’re going to like the taste and texture of it. “Even the healthiest protein bar will not work for you if you won’t eat it,” she says.

This article first appeared on Vogue.com

Also read:

8 everyday habits that impact your blood sugar

11 serotonin foods to boost your mood, from chocolate to cherries

Is your matcha latte making your hair fall out?

This week in beauty, the eyes dominated. Alia Bhatt leaned into bronze smokiness, Sonam Kapoor went deep and dramatic, while Nargis Fakhri’s winged liner carried vintage glamour. Elsewhere, Janhvi Kapoor, Sara Ali Khan and Sharvari kept it fresh with softer touches that proved minimal can still be memorable.

Janhvi Kapoor made her eyes the centrepiece at the Homebound premiere. Black liner, kohl and defined brows built a smoky gaze, softened by glossy nude-pink lips and sculpted cheeks. A small bindi and her mother Sridevi’s sari tied the look to legacy as much as style.

Smoky drama came courtesy of Sonam Kapoor, whose matte base and earthy shadows were pulled into a sultry, elongated shape. Kajal rimmed both lash lines, while a nude-brown gloss and subtle highlighter kept the intensity from tipping over.

Attending Demna’s Gucci debut, Alia Bhatt also kept the focus firmly on her eyes with a bronzed smoky lid that carried warmth and depth. Metallic tones were blended across the lids and smoked out at the edges, with kohl tracing both lash lines to intensify the gaze. The lower lash line was softened into a diffused haze, adding dimension without heaviness. Balanced brows framed the look, while a luminous base, peach-beige blush and nude lips kept everything else minimal.

Sharvari leaned into a tonal palette that mirrored the gold at her collar. Metallic lids were blended softly to the crease, edged with a faint flick of liner and light mascara. Her skin stayed luminous with a muted rose-beige flush on the cheeks, while nude satin lips and brushed brows tied the look together. The effect was cohesive and refined, less about restraint than about letting one warm spectrum carry through.

Nargis Fakhri channelled vintage glamour with sharp winged liner set against bold red lips. The liner’s precision lifted her eyes, while luminous skin and a touch of blush kept the overall effect fresh. Paired with her black sari, the look was amplified by an oversized hat and choker that pushed it firmly into retro territory.

Sara Ali Khan opted for a pared-back palette built on a matte base and softly contoured cheeks. Clean strokes of mascara gave her eyes a subtle lift, while a maple-toned gloss brought warmth and kept the look from feeling too minimal.

To the average tennis fan, the US Open wildcard pairing of tennis legend Venus Williams and rising star Leylah Fernandez sounded like just another doubles matchup. As the two advanced to the quarterfinals—before losing to Taylor Townsend and Kateřina Siniaková—their chemistry and effortless camaraderie both on and off the court had the entire internet rallying around them. “It’s the best partner I’ve ever played with outside of Serena,” Williams said about Fernandez. “We’re almost the same. We play the same style. I’m just a little bit bigger. We’re a great team.”

If you didn’t know, Fernandez is 22 while Williams is 45—a notable gap (and one of the widest on the tour, which only adds to the intrigue). So we got to thinking: Could their age difference be one of the reasons they hit it off? (No pun intended.)

Just as we’ve started to culturally normalise age gaps in romantic relationships (thanks in part to recent movies like Babygirl and The Idea of You), experts say it’s also worth opening our minds to what we might gain when we engage in platonic age-gap friendships. Whether it’s five years between you or 20, these types of relationships can actually enrich our lives in ways same-age connections can’t, according to Jennifer Hoffman, LCSW, Connecticut-based therapist and the founder of Instar Healing.

Here are the most surprising perks of an age gap in a friendship—and what we can all learn from befriending someone 10-plus years our senior (or junior).

What are the unique benefits of an age gap in a friendship?

There’s less pressure to compete or compare

Despite what you may think, being in totally different life stages can actually be helpful for bonding. Friends who are roughly the same age more easily fall into the trap of mental scorekeeping, Hoffman says. (Cue the flashback reel of being the only single one at your college friend’s wedding, watching a coworker who started when you did get promoted before you…etc.)

When you’re with someone of a different generation, however, it’s less likely you’ll feel as competitive, envious and pressured—which makes it easier to enjoy each other’s company and celebrate each other’s wins without envy or nagging anxiety about where you “should” be.

Their wisdom and experience offer a unique perspective

According to Kimberly Horn, EdD, MSW, psychologist and author of Friends Matter, for Life: Harnessing the 8 Tenets of Dynamic Friendship, one of the greatest benefits of an age-gap friendship is the built-in mentoring.

The minimalist dress has also found its place on the red carpet. Vittoria Ceretti attended the Los Angeles premiere of her partner Leonardo DiCaprio’s latest film, One Battle After Another, in a white Tom Ford look from Haider Ackermann’s Fall 2025 debut collection.

Her dress followed the same formula as Ratajkowski’s, heightening the impact with slits that ran from hip to floor on either side. A streamlined clutch, black stilettos and layers of silver jewellery—including statement ear cuffs that pulled the gaze upward—gave the silhouette a refined yet magnetic quality, perfectly suited for a premiere.

Michael Buckner/Getty Images

What unites these two moments is a minimalist philosophy: a manifesto of modern sartorial sobriety that prizes essentials without ever veering into dullness. What appears simple, on closer inspection, reveals its craftsmanship.

The minimalist dress code to keep in mind this fall and winter? Straight, unfussy cuts, sleeveless lines and a closed, high neckline—ideal for when the temperatures drop. Think block colours in trend-driven chocolate or rust, or timeless black and ivory. A piece you can fold into your wardrobe for years to come, ready to pair with this season’s more outré accents or wear on its own as a one-and-done.

Your body has been giving you signs, Leo. Have you been listening to it? Your answers may not lie in the traditional route—in fact, quite the contrary—they may come to you through your intuition, other alternative routes, your gut, the way your body is responding to people, foods, situations or in any other ‘non-traditional’ way. And your job, my friend, is to simply pay attention to it. To listen intently and to take charge of your life in ways that work for you. Get out there and get some fresh air, and while you are at it, remember to keep breathing properly throughout the day—your body, mind, a nd soul will thank you for it.

Cosmic tip: Take charge, not just for now, but with a long-term outlook.

Your life has been a bit of a stretch to say the least—at least lately. Virgo, your guides remind you that it may be time to get back to your core beliefs, faith and inner magic and really put it to good use now. Things may seem bad on the outside, but your words, thoughts, deeds and actions hold the power to shift your life in immaculate ways, and nope, this is not some ‘woo-woo’ nonsense. Your cells react to every thought vibration you emit, and this forms a lot of what conspires in the world. Now, if this is even 1% true, isn’t it worth your while to give it an honest shot?

Cosmic tip: Are you trapped, or are you simply in a situation or mindset that you did not see coming?

Hmm, what have you been bingeing on—content, thoughts, food—all included. Libra, go easy on yourself and others. There may be little point ushing to the end only to realise it was never about the winning post but always about how you made it there. What if your true victory was in helping your companions get there together? What if your true victory was in sharing smiles along the way? What if your true victory never really lies in the goal post, but always along the tracks that you race through?

Cosmic tip: Graciously accept where you are and allow yourself to revel in your glorious present.