All posts by : AyFa Collections

This week’s beauty looks were all about high-octave glamour and contrast. Deepika Padukone’s sculpted brows met Aditi Rao Hydari’s no-makeup makeup and hair elevated every look. Textures are placed thoughtfully, skin is treated like silk and every hairstyle comes together with precision. Here’s a closer look at the faces that are about to rule your moodboard.

Karisma Kapoor went with cool-toned makeup, complete with her classic liner and a barely smoked-out grey lid makes for a good balance between adventure and evergreen. Her natural textured ponytail adds to the polished look with fluttery lashes adding some drama. The skin stayed velvety with a subtle rosy flush, while a muted plum lip brought some fun.

Aditi Rao Hydari’s skin has that well-moisturised, hydrated sheen, paired with a fuschia pink lip that makes the whole face look fresh. The subtle shimmer on the lids adds a gentle sparkle without stepping into risky territory. The tousled waves and feathery bangs frame everything beautifully. It’s femininity with a slightly whimsical edge.

Khushi Kapoor’s look is rich, structured and steeped in old-world glamour. The deep matte lip, bold brows and elongated liner create a regal silhouette against the brocade outfit and layered pearls. Her hair is pulled back tightly that keeps the focus on the sculptural, sharp lines of her makeup.

In Deepika Padukone’s look, warm neutrals meet soft definition. Her eyes, an earthy brown wash paired with clean, lifted lashes and espresso brown nails anchor the whole mood, giving just enough smoke without weighing anything down. The monochrome lip-and-cheek palette keeps the face cohesive, while the highlight adds a sunlit glow. Her hair, left loose and catching the wind, brings in a touch of movement that softens the structured styling.

Aneet Padda’s makeup is minimalist glam done right. Glossy lips, softly defined lashes and high-glam shimmery bronze lids and on the inner corners brightens the eyes instantly. The makeup is feather-light, letting her natural features lead. Stray wisps of hair soften the frame.

Kriti Sanon’s strong liner and kohl, wet, sculpted hair and perfectly groomed brows give this look its commanding presence. The soft contouring keeps everything lifted, while the muted nude lip balances the intensity of the eyes. Her hair is slicked back with face-framing tendrils, adding just the right amount of lightness to an otherwise intense look.

Below, a roundup of the best looks from the week:

Textiles make a dress, and sometimes, they make a memorable sartorial moment. Karisma Kapoor’s recent appearance in a black-and-silver EKA dress proves exactly that. With her ensemble, handwoven linen zari steps into the spotlight, a fabric long associated with ease and but rarely considered for its festive potential.

Called ‘Ophelia’, the tiered silhouette falls from the shoulder to hem and pintucks define its yoke. A scalloped organza trim lends an air of delicacy, while hand-embroidered zardozi borders on the hem and neckline bring a festive richness. Designer Rina Singh of EKA frames the ensemble in an artisanal narrative, “Karisma is wearing handwoven linen zari metallic stripes from the Festive ‘25 collection. The weavers are based in Bhagalpur. We have worked with these weavers since the inception of the brand 15 years ago. They are masters in handloom tussar, linen and cotton weaves. The silhouette is form-friendly and easy fit, embellished with zardozi embroidery.”

Paired with the dress is the Celian jacket. A short striped blazer with balloon-style sleeves, it is cut in the same metallic handloom textile. Its relaxed-yet-refined shape offsets the fluidity of the dress, while hand embroidery as floral motifs on the sleeves elevates the surface like wearable artwork. “The jacket and dress work as coordinates to establish a strong Indian-international sentiment,” she elaborates. It’s a sentiment that resonates instantly. The look is rooted in the subcontinent, yet modern enough to feel at home in any global fashion city.

Kapoor kept the styling contemporary too, with a sleek ponytail, softly smoky eyes and a muted mauve lip to complement the metallic palette. The unexpected hero is a vintage Chanel brooch pinned to her lapel, an accent that reinstates the cross-cultural dialogue. A black calfskin quilted medallion flap bag from the luxury label rounded off her accessory look.

After a year committed to “fashion flip-flops” – see The Row’s humble-looking Dunes and Havaianas – it’s time to put our toes away. Flashes of the talus and navicular bones (on the upper part of the foot) are an exception , as this season we’ve witnessed an uptick in shoes that encase the foot like a décolletage-revealing knit. Their name? The V-neck shoe, of course.

Phoebe Philo’s V-neck shoes on Céline’s autumn/winter 2016 runway.

Céline autumn/winter 2016.

Phoebe Philo, she of divisive shoe mastery, peddled several V-neck shoes during her tenure at Céline, including styles crafted from supple, sock-like leather with angular heels, which debuted for autumn/winter 2016. Meanwhile, Matthieu Blazy introduced new interpretations at the Chanel Métiers d’Art show, worn by models who scaled a subway-station-come-runway. Featured amidst a medley of incredible textures and fabric innovations (Blazy’s calling cards), the Maison’s iconic two-tone slingbacks arrived with tapered V-shaped uppers—in white/black, black/white, red/black, and baby blue/black—and spiked flourishes on the heel straps.

And if Blazy’s versions were for New York women navigating train platforms, then Miuccia Prada and Raf Simons’s patent spring/summer 2026 iterations, delving low enough to peek toe cleavage and secured with delicate leather bows, were for after-dark outings. As for Louise Trotter’s scrunched leather Bottega takes, which came knotted at the achilles and elevated with a kitten heel? These would be suited to any occasion that calls for directional comfort.

Like a V-neck sweater, there’s an unexpected practicality to be gained from a V-neck shoe. Grounded in outré sex appeal—and no need for a pedicure—this is a silhouette that will deliver from 9 to 5 and the hours in between.

₹ 16,800

Cos – Heeled ballerinas

₹ 96,700

Phoebe Philo – Tilt mules

₹ 69,000

Babouche – kitten heels

₹ 1,19,700

Bottega Veneta – Jet mules

₹ 1,27,000

Alaia – Leather pumps

₹ 94,900

Gucci – Heeled mule

₹ 47, 100

Jude – Paw mules

₹ 39,900

Harvey Nichols – Python-effect pumps

₹ 1,02,800

Khaite – Peep-toe leather mules

₹ 73,198

Proenza Schouler – Slingback pumps

This article first appeared on Vogue.co.uk

Also read:

Priyanka Chopra Jonas’s Arpita Mehta ensemble flips the sari script with a corset-led silhouette

Alia Bhatt goes classic black in archival Pierre Balmain for the Red Sea Film Festival

Vogue India’s best dressed 2025 list belongs to those who dress with purpose

What part of the scale feels exciting for you, Aquarius? Focus on that. Balance in your mind, balance in your life, balance all around is what the stars are indicating for you. And while this may not necessarily mean that you are surrounded by a balanced environment, what you could focus on is finding that balance in small ways in your life so that you can remind yourself what you are truly capable of. Mental equations and cryptic formulations may be keeping you up at night, Sagittarius. New ideas or old ones disguised as restless thoughts and sleepless nights may be flooding you. And look at you, you seem excited. Now that you feel you have arrived, instead of focussing on probable day dreams, how about focussing on what really is right in front of you and checking that off your tasksheet. When you make a choice and stick to it, the cosmos has no option but to conspire in your favour and make it happen. Leo, your current circumstances are living proof. You leave a mark on whatever you pick and this time is no different. You see, when you fuse your power to create with determination, consistency and discipline, you make magic happen.

Read on for what the stars have in store for you, and make sure you check out your sun, moon and rising signs for the complete picture.

Be philanthropic today, Aries. Share what you feel like sharing, do your tiny bit of good for no rhyme or reason. And remember that what goes around comes around. So while the waters may feel rough and choppy—however challenging it may feel for you—keep this soft flame alive in your heart. Do good, be kind and keep the movement going. You will be surprised at the ways in which it comes back to you in unexpected ways but when you most need it.

Cosmic tip: Keep holding your vision with clarity, and balance logic with intuition.

The spoils of war may not allure you anymore. However, Taurus, you are also being awakened to something new and unexpected. Give this a shot, will you? When your heart is in something, you glow differently. And when you glow differently it reflects in all you do. Lasso your shooting stars out from the galaxies into your existence. There you will find the fire you need to fan this gift you have been given.

Cosmic tip: Make a choice based on your gut, even though it feels like it is not what you asked for. Don’t let pride come in the way.

You want to do it all, but tell me Gemini, can you really do it all at once and alone? For every perfectly crafted character you see on the big screen, there is an invisible team that works relentlessly to bring it to life. Similarly for every achievement in life, there is a support system that is needed—be it your cook showing up to make you a healthy meal, or the cabbie showing up to take you to your destination, or simply you showing up to do your bit while you allow other bits of the system to do theirs. Remember this – every time you feel like things are not worth it, ask yourself how can I let myself shine?

Dopamine hits, the fast lane, that adrenaline rush—its all great. But how about some steady dose of oxytocin too? Simply put, Cancer, slowdown. Stretch a little. Allow those ideas to marinate. Let your heart open. Let your mind rest. And let your body reset. This is a good time for you to focus on filling your cup. You know you have been a little extra edgy because quite frankly you may have been running on fumes. Take on a more patient approach. Your life is not meant to be lived in a day.

Cosmic tip: Listen, think, reflect, breathe, and then articulate.

Also read:

Aries December 13, 2025

Taurus December 13, 2025

Gemini December 13, 2025

Leo December 13, 2025

Virgo December 13, 2025

Libra December 13, 2025

Scorpio December 13, 2025

Sagittarius December 13, 2025

Capricorn December 13, 2025

Aquarius December 13, 2025

Pisces December 13, 2025

Alia Bhatt wore an Elie Saab Haute Couture gown at the Red Sea Festival, crafted from amber silk chiffon. The strapless corset bodice featured a draped sweetheart neckline and romantic multicoloured florals embroidered with sequins scattered across the gown. It hugged the body delicately, while a long sheer panel extended from one side, creating an ethereal movement. For jewellery, sculptural rose earrings added the perfect fairytale flourish. Loose waves, bronzed skin, shimmery eyelids, and a natural lip completed this dreamy red-carpet moment.

Madhuri Dixit Nene offered a contemporary spin on traditional patterns in a rust-toned Tarun Tahiliani ensemble. The draped dress folded and wrapped around her frame, while the collared blouse and loosely cinched elbow-length sleeves introduced a structured, modern touch. The geometric print added dynamism, while the sari-inspired drape brought softness and fluidity. Warm-toned accessories—including sculptural gold ear cuffs and stacked wooden bangles—kept the palette cohesive.

Very few things come close to the frustration you feel from doing everything right with retinoids and still ending up with a tight, stinging face. You ease in, you buffer with moisturiser, you follow the rules and your skin responds with redness, flaking and resistance. For anyone with eczema, dryness, rosacea or a naturally reactive barrier, the gold standard of anti-ageing can start to feel more punishing than helpful. That’s usually the point at which lactic acid becomes interesting as a gentler way to resurface, hydrate and soften fine lines without pushing your skin past its limit.

It’s technically an exfoliating acid, but it also behaves like a humectant. It’s billed as “gentle” so often that you’d be forgiven for wondering: could it actually be a softer stand-in for retinoids if your skin refuses to cooperate?

“Lactic acid gently dissolves dead cells and boosts natural moisturising factors,” explains Dr Geetika Mittal Gupta, celebrity dermatologist and founder of Isaac Luxe. “This makes it ideal for sensitive skin. Unlike many retinoids or stronger acids that can trigger inflammation, lactic acid can support cell turnover without disrupting the barrier thereby improving radiance, texture and early fine lines.”

Dr Yash Mehta, facial plastic surgeon and founder of ACSC, breaks down why it often behaves better on touchy skin. “Lactic acid has a larger molecular size than some other AHAs, so it penetrates more slowly and stays more superficial,” he says. “That slower action reduces the risk of irritation, redness or barrier disruption.”

Can lactic acid really replace your retinoid?

“Lactic acid can improve texture, tone and surface signs of ageing like fine lines, uneven tone and dullness by gently exfoliating dead cells and promoting turnover,” says Dr Mehta. “You won’t get dramatic, prescription-level results but you do get smoother, brighter, more even skin over time.”

Dr Gupta agrees, “Consistent use doesn’t give the same drastic transformation as retinoids, but it provides gentle, steady resurfacing that improves plumpness, clarity and overall skin quality. It’s a good option for those who simply cannot tolerate stronger actives.”

Short answer: it can’t fully replicate everything a retinoid does. Retinoids work on deeper receptors in the skin and have the strongest evidence for collagen stimulation and long-term wrinkle reduction but if you cannot tolerate them at all, lactic acid is still far from a consolation prize.

Where lactic acid really shines

For those with eczema or a chronically compromised barrier, the word “acid” can be intimidating. Dermatologist Dr Prachi Bodkhe from Envi Aesthetics is cautious but optimistic, “In people with eczema, lactic acid can be used, but only in low strengths and in cream or lotion bases,” she says. “On actively inflamed or broken skin, it’s best avoided until the barrier recovers.”

She also sees clear differences in how formulas behave in real life. “Lotions are usually the best tolerated because they buffer the acid with emollients. Serums tend to feel stronger, while toners can sting if the barrier is even mildly compromised.”

How to get started without freaking your skin out

All three experts agree: how you use lactic acid matters as much as the ingredient itself.

Priyanka Chopra Jonas appeared on The Kapil Sharma Show in a custom Arpita Mehta ensemble, styled by Ami Patel, that nods to the sari before reimagining its form.

Instead of a traditional drape, the look begins with a structured corset with soft blue botanical motifs on an ivory base. Cut with a sweetheart neckline and gentle peplum flare, it brings the familiarity of floral Indian textiles into a sharper, sculpted frame. The sari skirt flows out from beneath it, keeping the movement intact while sidestepping convention.

Jewellery stays pared back: silver Bvlgari Serpenti Viper earrings and bracelet introduce a sleek counterpoint to the softness of the print. Beauty follows suit, with muted makeup and a side-parted blowout that keeps the focus squarely on the silhouette rather than the spectacle. The beauty look built on the soft romantic theme of the ensemble with light defined eyes, a muted pink lip and a voluminous blowout.

From Vogue’s fashion desk:

“Ditch the blowout for a sleek wet-look bun to an add some edge to an otherwise soft girl look. Add a silver clutch, just enough to accentuate the blue print without overdressing it,” says Vogue India fashion associate Manglien Gangte.

Also read:

Priyanka Chopra Jonas looks sharp in paisley-printed Ralph Lauren

Priyanka Chopra Jonas’s Anamika Khanna sari layers ivory threadwork with statement jewellery

Priyanka Chopra Jonas’s mirrored Zuhair Murad pantsuit proves festive wear can be power dressing

In a world where identity is fluid and borders are increasingly intangible, fashion has become one of the most visible ways younger generations express their heritage and global influences simultaneously. For many today, the idea of wearing a purely traditional kurta or a sharp western suit feels limiting; instead, they seek garments that bridge cultures, marrying heritage with contemporary sensibilities. Among these hybrid styles, the ever-elegant Nehru jacket has experienced a remarkable resurgence. Worn over kurtas, shirts, or even tees, it offers an effortless blend of South Asian tradition and modern minimalism. As fashion becomes more globalised, younger wearers are redefining what it means to look stylish while honouring their roots. The result is a wave of Indo-Western outfits that are as comfortable on the high street as they are at festive gatherings.

With rising urbanisation, growing pride in cultural identity, and exposure to global trends via social media and travel, this fusion style is no longer niche; it’s becoming mainstream. From wedding mehendis to city brunches, the Indo-Western look has carved out space in every wardrobe. In what follows, we explore how this evolution is unfolding for the next generation: the influences, the trends, the styling ideas, and why this blending of East and West has struck such a chord recently.

The Roots of Indo-Western Fashion

Indo-Western fashion began as a subtle experiment, small tweaks to traditional Indian wear that made it more wearable in urban settings. Think of a kurta with a Mandarin collar, or a sherwani cut shorter so it works with jeans. Over time, designers began reimagining traditional cuts altogether, borrowing from Western tailoring to create garments that could move seamlessly between a formal dinner in London and a family celebration in Hyderabad.

At the heart of this fusion lies a deep respect for heritage. Clothing like churidars, bandhgalas, kurtas, and achkans has centuries of cultural significance. By pairing them with trousers, loafers, or even T-shirts, wearers retain a connection to their roots while embracing modernity. It’s a balance of the old and the new, where tradition doesn’t feel like a costume, but rather a living, evolving style.

Contemporary Trends: What’s New and What’s Here to Stay

Minimalism Meets Heritage

Younger wearers are drawn to clean lines and subtle detailing, a reaction against both ostentatious traditional wear and overly casual fast fashion. The result? Sleek Indo-Western silhouettes: plain linen kurtas with slim-fit trousers, bandhgalas with minimalist embroidery, and cropped Nehru-style jackets worn over T-shirts. The focus is on comfort, versatility, and a timelessness that transcends fleeting trends.

Fabrics and Sustainability

With growing environmental awareness, many are now seeking natural fabrics like linen, khadi, and cotton over synthetic blends. These light, breathable materials work well in India’s climate and give an organic feel to outfits. At the same time, they align with the global push towards conscious, sustainable fashion. The fusion aesthetic benefits from this trend: traditional fabric choices are reimagined through modern cuts and tailored shapes.

Gender-Fluid and Androgynous Styles

Indo-Western fusion has also opened the door to breaking gender norms. Women are embracing tailored achkans, oversized kurta coats, and straight-cut pants, while men might opt for draped layers or subtle embroidery traditionally reserved for women. The result is a wardrobe less constrained by binary norms and more defined by personal style.

Streetwear Influences

With streetwear dominating global urban fashion, this influence is creeping into Indo-Western wardrobes too. Hoodies under long kurtas, sneakers with bandhgalas, and denim paired with ethnic scarves, these playful combinations reflect a generation growing up on global pop culture yet rooted in South Asia.

Youth, Subculture and Identity

For many young people, especially those living in diasporas or multicultural cities, clothing becomes a way to navigate dual identities. Someone may be studying in London but get invited to a Diwali party, or live in Mumbai but work in a creative start-up valuing global style. Indo-Western wear becomes a bridge, allowing them to express cultural pride without seeming outdated or overly formal.

Social media plays a major role here. Influencers, fashion bloggers, and even students share looks that combine a kurta with a Nehru jacket with trainers. This democratization of style means that fusion fashion is no longer reserved for traditional occasions; it belongs on the streets, cafés, and campuses.

Styling Ideas: How the Next Generation is Wearing It

• Smart-Casual Ethnic: Pair a crisp kurta with slim-fit chinos and slip-on loafers. Throw a short ethnic coat over for a polished yet relaxed vibe.
• Urban Minimalist: Choose a plain cotton kurta in muted tones, pair it with tapered trousers and minimal sneakers. Finish with subtle accessories, perhaps a pocket square or a watch.
• Festive Edge with a Twist: A brocade kurta layered under a clean-lined, tailored jacket, a modern reinterpretation of sherwani.
• Androgynous Statement: Women in tailored long coats with narrow trousers; men in layered loose kurtas with wide-legged pants. Soft pastel colours and simple jewellery complete the look.
• Fusion Streetwear: An ethnic kurta worn over jeans, topped with a statement jacket, and accessorised with canvas shoes or boots for street-ready charm.

Why This Fusion Resonates with the New Generation

• Flexibility: Indo-Western garments work in diverse settings, from family dinners and festivals to travel, college, and work parties. No need for a wardrobe full of distinct outfits.
• Identity and Pride: It’s a way for younger people to honour their heritage while expressing a global, modern sensibility, a sartorial representation of who they are.
• Comfort + Style: Light fabrics, loose silhouettes, and breathable materials suit modern living, especially in warm climates.
• Sustainability & Individualism: Moving away from fast fashion towards natural fabrics and timeless designs allows for more conscious and personal wardrobes.

The Road Ahead: What’s Next for Indo-Western Fashion

Looking forward, a few trends are likely to shape the future of Indo-Western fashion:

1. Hybrid Formal Wear: Expect more suits and Nehru blazers that draw on ethnic tailoring, jackets with Nehru collars, kurtas with structured shoulders, and ethnic embroidery on formal shirtings.
2. Sustainable & Artisanal Textiles: A renewed interest in handcrafted fabrics, khadi, handwoven silks, block-printed cottons, as people increasingly seek unique, eco-friendly garments.
3. Closed-Gender and Inclusive Designs: More gender-neutral silhouettes, unisex designs, and inclusive sizing to welcome a broader audience.
4. Global Fusion: As more designers collaborate internationally, we might see Indo-Western styles mixing with other global aesthetics, think ethnic coats with Scandinavian minimalism or South-Asian embroideries with Japanese-inspired cuts.

Explore Indo-Western Fashion for the Modern Man with Nihal Fashions

We at Nihal Fashions believe in celebrating this beautiful blend of tradition and contemporary flair. Our curated collection of premium ethnic jackets and coats is handcrafted to deliver both comfort and style, perfectly suited for the modern wardrobe.

Our signature piece, the Nehru jacket, is crafted with fine stitching, elegant lines, and a timeless silhouette that honours heritage while staying utterly modern. Whether you’re dressing up for a festive celebration, an evening out, or a city brunch, our men’s jacket offers versatility like no other.

For those seeking a modern twist, our dapper range of Indo-Western suits promises to get you party-ready with ease. These pieces showcase a sophisticated blend of Indian embellishments, heritage-inspired embroidery, and luxurious fabrics such as linen, cotton, silk, and velvet, creating outfits that effortlessly bridge culture and modernity.

You can also explore our other men’s wear categories, including stylish kurta-pyjamas, designer sherwanis, men’s jackets, and elegant men’s kurtas. 

Conclusion

The revival of Indo-Western fashion speaks to a deeper cultural shift. It’s about honouring heritage without being bound by it; about creating a wardrobe that reflects who we are, multifaceted, global, proud, and individual. The Nehru jacket, and its variants like a sleek blazer or the more formal suit jacket, stand at the heart of this evolution.

For the next generation, fashion is not just about fitting in or standing out. It’s about blending roots with dreams, tradition with innovation, and modesty with boldness. In doing so, Indo-Western wear becomes more than clothing; it becomes a statement, a lifestyle, a bridge across worlds. So, whether you’re dressing for a festive evening, a city lunch, or simply want to express your heritage with contemporary flair, embracing Indo-Western fusion collections from Nihal Fashions is more than a trend; it’s the future of style.