Posts in category: Life Style

The India connection doesn’t end there. The lacquered pillar that supports the fragrance table—and L’Objet regulars will recognise the six popular scents and the bottles they come in—“is inspired by Temple No. 17 at Sanchi, a 5th-century Buddhist site in Madhya Pradesh,” Yifrach reveals. As you step through the store’s entrance and walk around appreciating a checkered pot, a gold crocodile studded with colourful stones, an undulating serving bowl, a coffee table book on Sicily by Assouline, you might feel like the white floors are too pristine to tread on. Yifrach wants you to breathe easy: the flooring, too, is made-in-India pure limestone, designed to withstand scratches, stains and damage. The pops of burnt orange around the store are a nod to the abundance of terracotta seen around India—on the roofs of homes in the south, in kitchens to store food, in temples as decorative figurines.

For example, Malone says, simple carbohydrates (including sugars) cause an immediate blood sugar spike followed by a steep drop, setting those alarm bells off. Yes, they’ll raise your blood sugar and improve your energy in the short term—great for an acute plunge like we mentioned above—but they’ll ultimately only create a vicious cycle that’ll leave you right back where you started. That’s why your meals and snacks should represent a balance of all three macros: carbs as well as protein and fats. “That would result in a much more steady, stable blood sugar where you wouldn’t have this kind of up and down,” Malone says.

What and how much you eat aren’t the only factors that affect blood sugar fluctuations, however, according to Malone. Genetic differences, menstruation, sleep quality, certain health conditions like diabetes or hormonal imbalances, and lifestyle factors (say, chronic stress or limited physical activity) may play a role as well, to name a few others.

But your environment can come into play too…

Habit and custom can be powerful forces, so you can inadvertently train your body to expect sweet foods under certain circumstances. In this case, your sugar cravings are the result of “a routine that gets ingrained,” Malone explains.

If you always swing by a coffee shop to pick up a latte on your way to work, you might start to experience sugar cravings in the morning. If you always eat dessert after dinner, they might pop up after you finish your evening meal. Finally, if you always have eggnog or cutout cookies at Christmas, they could pay a holiday visit after you glitz your tree out.

Your body learns to associate specific locations, times, and occasions with a sugar hit, according to Malone, so as that nears, your body starts to anticipate that sweet treat.

…and don’t discount your emotional state, either

Many people have strong positive or negative feelings about sugar that can influence their cravings, according to Tsui. Sugar, after all, occupies an unusual niche in the food sphere—simultaneously revered for its enticing taste and demonised for its close ties to “junk food.”

On one hand, some folks think of sweet stuff “as comforting, as being a treat,” Tsui says. In response, they may crave sweet foods for the associated psychological benefits, like a temporary mood boost when they need that comfort, she says. Sometimes, these cravings can even amount to a form of self-medication—a way to “manage difficult or intense emotions,” Tsui says. (Hence the term “comfort food.”)

While it’s only natural to gravitate toward bold prints and vivid colours during this time of year, we’re going to show you how to wear black in the summer. Summertime is synonymous with colour—the oceans’ richness, the sky’s brightness, the sunset’s golden hour hues. But for some, especially for the city dwellers living with an artist’s edge, wearing black in the summer is as natural as throwing on a romantic floral dress. The key to embracing black during the warmer months? Experimenting with fabrics, textures, and silhouettes.

Besides, wearing black in the summertime doesn’t mean you’re forgoing all that the season has to offer. If anything, you’re just going the monochromatic route. On the weekend, swap your white poplin skirt for a black option from Aritzia—it looks chic teamed with an embroidered lace blouse and raffia tote bag. Wondering how to toughen up your go-to essentials for beach trips and lavish destinations? Easy—eschew the printed sarong, natural-coloured raffia hat, and bikini set in favor of their black counterparts. There are plenty of ways to incorporate the no-colour-colour this season, whether you’re having a busy workweek or planning a Friday date night. Below, seven all-black summer outfit ideas for every occasion, ahead.

Picnic in the Park

A fitted tank, especially one cast in black, from Flore Flore and pull-on trousers from Mango, is an easy way to elevate a casual ensemble. Amplify the look with designer accessories from Toteme and The Row.

Weekend Warrior

Embrace the essence of the season by pairing summer’s coveted textures together in one look. Embroidered lace, linen, raffia, and a jelly sandal join forces for effortless off-duty appeal.

Workin’ Gal

For the office, swap your wool blazer and straight-leg pants for an oversized black shirt from Skall Studio and Bermuda shorts (they are currently trending!) from Mango. Dragon Diffusion’s woven Japan tote will store a laptop, wallet, keys, and a desk lunch.

linen-blend suit bermuda shorts

Au Revoir

If there’s one thing we all look forward to the moment warmer weather arrives on the scene, it’s the potential to plot a much-needed vacation. Showcase an air of mystery on the beach by wearing all black.

Ludo toe ring strappy flat sandal

Business Casual

Business codes have come a long way from the boxy office wear of the past. Find feminine touch with a cinched waist linen blazer and matching pants from Alex Mill, ideal for both work and a dinner meeting afterwards.

Soho waisted linen blazer

Date Night

Silver-embellished fashion-forward accessories are an easy way to update a date night look. Rohé’s off-the-shoulder maxidress sets the foundation—anything will look good paired with it. Add whimsy and charm with a beaded bucket bag and strappy kitten-heel sandals.

off-the-shoulder ruched gathered stretch-jersey maxi dress

Pilates Princess

The time is now for Hot Girl Walks, morning Reformer classes, and weekends spent unwinding with a soundbath session. Sport all black on the way there with biker shorts and a strappy sports bra. Accessorize with Loulou de Saison’s roomy cardigan.

Aidar crop wool cashmere crewneck cardigan

Like a Cloud stretch sports bra

Spacedye Keep Pace biker shorts

This article first appeared in Vogue.com

Cosmic tip: It’s going to be worth the wait.

When you do things with love, it can be felt not just by you but also by those you do them for. Scorpio, while not many may know this, but you are a big softie, so use this tenderness to create a tsunami of possibilities and magic for yourself too. When you cannot find directions on Google maps, what do you do? Ask passersby or more likely, rely on your intuition or gut and eventually get there.. Then in life, why do you let your mind overpower what your instincts already know? Your ability to give is endless when you are connected to your inner radar that plugs directly into Source, making you a limitless receiver.

Cosmic tip: Get creative with your hobbies to get creative in life because manifesting is ultimately a creative process.

To allow prosperity to enter your life, you must allow your breath to bring you peace, and your vital life force to flow effortlessly in your veins. And how do you do that, Sag? By taking less stress and paying more attention to the subtle cues thrown your way by the Universe. It is only when you have a clear mind that you will be able to hear your inner voice. And yes, when things are chaotic, it may not be the easiest go-to, but by consciously focusing on your breath, dropping your shoulders, and unclenching your jaw, even your gut, you can make a start. Your body relays cues to you more actively than you can imagine because it was made for awareness from awareness. Create miracles by listening intently.

Cosmic tip: Simplify your life by decluttering your mind and your tasks.

We get it – your warrior mode is always on. And this may come to you more automatically than you can sum up, Capricorn. However, just because you defy the odds, doesn’t mean you have to have your spiky guard on all the time. If nobody gets you, don’t take it personally. Only children who can write alphabets can read words and sentences. And with full respect, you may either be looking in the wrong direction or expecting people who do not have the bandwidth to grasp what you are about to share. Transform your pain into wisdom and learning. Your resentment to hold more space for yourself, and soon you will realise that you hold more space for the world at large, without breaking into a sweat.

Minimal, monochrome, masterful—Soni’s aesthetic is clean and ideal for those who appreciate restraint in design, but with an Indian accent.

Kunal Rawal

Relaxed tailoring with a streetwear sensibility. Rawal’s layered, asymmetrical garments bridge Indian tradition and urban cool. Worn by grooms, rappers and rule-breakers alike.

Gaurav Gupta

A fresh new summer menu awaits you at The Bombay Canteen, featuring ripe summer vegetables and nostalgic flavours. Nosh on fare such as carrot thoran, squid kheema pao, jackfruit kulcha, Kolhapuri mutton claypot rice, aloo tikki chaat and the popular Begum’s baked brie with a summer spin, featuring a sweet and tart mulberry chutney. For sweet endings, try the chilled coconut phirni or a tasting of mangoes from different Indian regions.

Address: Unit-1, Process House, Kamala Mills, Lower Parel. Tel: 08880802424

Donmai (Sunday brunch)

The modern Japanese restaurant has recently launched its Sunday brunch experience, offering a smattering of Japanese favourites such as furikake chips, shrimp tempura rolls, miso buns, robata-style bites, comforting katsu curry bowls and yakisoba or stir-fried noodles. Pair your meal with refreshing cocktails to round off a boozy brunch.

Address: G-03, Altimus, Pandurang Budhkar Marg, opposite Worli Doordarshan Tower, B Wing, BDD Chawls Worli. Tel: 09730659776

Pune

Kiki

If fans of The White Lotus were offered the chance to indulge in the show’s fictional Thai wellness retreat, few would turn down full-body massages, yoga sessions, biometric testing, meditation, or even a stint in a sensory deprivation tank. But how many would willingly sign up for its more controversial offering—a full digital detox? Even for those tempted to unplug, it’s hardly a long-term option in today’s tech-saturated world. We’re so tethered to our screens that terms like text or tech neck, smartphone thumb, selfie elbow, text claw and computer vision syndrome have gone from novelty phrases to real, widespread concerns.

‘Tech neck’ and the modern posture problem

Dr Karishma Sanghavi, sports physiotherapist and certified MDT, believes we’re already in the early stages of a posture epidemic. “With access to technology not just for work, but for leisure, socialising and entertainment, we are looking at our screens for almost 8–12 hours per day, often in slouched and static positions. We are seeing people in their 20s and 30s with chronic pain. Also, after COVID, many corporations have adapted to work-from-home, allowing employees to work from their beds, couches, or non-ergonomic desk arrangements, contributing further to the ‘posture epidemic,’” she says.

How tech neck affects you

Once associated with ageing, the Dowager’s hump—an excessive rounding of the upper back—is now increasingly common in younger people. The rise of tech neck, driven by hours hunched over screens, is accelerating postural decline. Dr Karishma Sanghavi warns that poor posture can trigger a cascade of issues, from spinal problems and poor balance leading to an increased risk of falls to reduced lung capacity and altered mental health. Hunching causes the chest and lungs to collapse and reduces oxygen intake capacity. Poor posture also slows the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) around the brain and spinal cord, potentially affecting brain waste clearance and contributing to brain fog or fatigue. The vagus nerve is your body’s built-in calming system. When compressed by the hunched posture, it leads to poor emotional regulation, increased stress reactivity, and reduced resilience to anxiety.”

Your device is changing your hands

All those selfies might cost you an elbow. ‘Selfie elbow’ is real and happens when your tendons become inflamed from constantly extending or twisting your arm to snap photos. Another issue is text claw syndrome. Dr Ashis Acharya, Senior Consultant Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, explains that while it’s not an official diagnosis, long periods of fine motor activities can cause pain from tendon degeneration, locked fingers, and nerve irritation. He advises, “Gentle hand and wrist exercises, switching to a stylus or voice input, and regular breaks can help reverse or avoid text claw.”

Building better habits

Excessive technology use affects more than just our posture, neck, and hands. It can lead to eye strain, changes in skull structure, facial muscle tone, jaw pain and teeth grinding. Dr Anup Khatri, Senior Consultant Orthopaedics at Gleneagles Hospital, warns against ignoring early signs like neck stiffness, upper back discomfort and headaches. Physical exams, posture assessments, and range-of-motion tests can help identify tech-related strain. “Innovations like smart posture wearables, ergonomic furniture and posture trackers offer hope in preventing strain,” says Dr Khatri.

Sanghavi recommends the 20-20-20 rule: “Every 20 minutes, move 20 feet away from your screen and rest your hand for 20 seconds. Use this time to do simple forearm stretches or wrist mobility movements to ease strain.”

She shares a simple 5-minute routine to help prevent tech-related issues:

The Salwar Kameez has been the OG outfit for generations—and guess what, it’s not going anywhere. It’s timeless, versatile, and fits every mood from daily hustle to wedding glam. But while everyone raves about the embroidery, colors, and cuts, there’s one thing that doesn’t get enough attention—the fabric. Yes, the very soul of your Salwar Kameez. Whether it feels breezy, rich, stiff, or silky, it all comes down to the material it’s made from. So if you’ve ever asked yourself, “What is Salwar Kameez commonly made from?”—this guide spills it all. Fabric makes or breaks the look. And at Nihal Fashions, we live by one rule—pick the right fabric first, and everything else flows like butter. Let’s walk you through the world of textiles that make the Salwar Kameez the iconic staple that it is.

Why Fabric Choice Is Everything in Salwar Kameez

Imagine this—you order a beautifully embroidered Salwar Kameez online, but when it arrives, the fabric is clingy, itchy, and nowhere close to wearable. Total mood killer. That’s because even the most stunning outfit fails if the fabric isn’t right. The texture, drape, fall, and comfort of your Salwar Kameez are 100% dependent on its material. And different occasions call for different feels. Cotton for everyday wear, silk for shaadis, georgette for the ‘gram—every fabric has a vibe, and we’re decoding it all right here. So buckle up, because we’re about to dive head-first into the fabric jungle that powers every beautiful Salwar Kameez from Nihal Fashions

1. Cotton – The Everyday Queen of Comfort

Let’s kick things off with the most beloved fabric for Salwar Kameez—cotton. Lightweight, breathable, and fuss-free, cotton is the go-to choice for women across South Asia for daily wear. It absorbs sweat like a pro, keeps you cool, and drapes casually without clinging. Ideal for the office, college, market runs, or just lounging in style. Cotton Salwar Kameez is often simple but can be jazzed up with prints, embroidery, or even lace detailing. At Nihal Fashions, we carry cotton suits that balance comfort with clean aesthetics, so you’re never compromising on style even when dressing low-key

2. Silk – The Showstopper Fabric for Grand Moments

If cotton is your weekday bestie, silk is your red carpet date. This fabric screams elegance, and a silk Salwar Kameez is practically made for festivals, weddings, and special dinners. There’s something rich and regal about the smoothness and shine of silk that instantly upgrades your look. The beauty of silk Salwar Kameez lies in its ability to hold detailed embroidery and shimmer without looking over-the-top. Think zari borders, resham threads, mirror work—all of it pops beautifully on silk. While pure silk can be pricey, art silk and blended silks offer similar charm at budget-friendly rates, and Nihal Fashions curates both so you can pick your luxury level

3. Georgette – The Flowy, Feminine Star

Now here’s a fabric that moves with you—georgette. Lightweight and sheer with a slightly crinkled texture, georgette Salwar Kameez is loved for its easy flow and delicate appearance. It’s perfect for semi-formal occasions where you want to look polished but not overdressed. Georgette drapes like a dream, which means your dupatta game will be on point every time. Whether it’s a simple printed georgette suit or an embroidered number, this fabric adds just the right dose of elegance and drama without feeling bulky. A must-have in every woman’s ethnic wardrobe, and yes, we at Nihal Fashions offer some stunning georgette pieces too

4. Chiffon – Ultra Light and Graceful

Think of chiffon as georgette’s more ethereal cousin. It’s sheer, super soft, and flows like water. A chiffon Salwar Kameez is ideal for those who love delicate textures and light layering. It’s especially popular in Pakistani-style suits where long kameez and flared salwars are paired with feather-light chiffon dupattas. Chiffon might not hold heavy embroidery well, but it wins big in the feminine charm department. Whether you’re attending a family dinner or a small mehendi function, chiffon has your back—gracefully and glamorously

5. Crepe – The Understated Power Player

Crepe has a subtle texture and a body-hugging drape that makes it perfect for structured Salwar Kameez designs. Not as sheer as chiffon or as crisp as cotton, it lives somewhere in between. Great for formal events where you want a sleek silhouette without sacrificing comfort. Crepe Salwar Kameez often comes in solid colors, digital prints, or minimal embroidery, letting the fabric’s unique finish do the talking. If you love clean lines and smooth fall, crepe is worth checking out. And yes, Nihal Fashions offers crepe suits that feel as good as they look

6. Velvet – The Winter Royalty

Velvet is the king of cold-weather glam. Thick, plush, and oozing royalty, velvet Salwar Kameez are reserved for weddings, receptions, and grand parties—especially in the winter months. The texture is rich, the weight adds drama, and the warmth is just a cherry on top. Embroidery, sequins, and beadwork look ultra-luxe on velvet. A deep maroon or navy velvet suit with a contrasting dupatta? Instant queen vibes. At Nihal Fashions, our velvet pieces are specially curated for bridal seasons, making sure you’re warm and stunning all at once

7. Net – For the Glam-Lovers

The net is all about the look. Transparent and delicate, it’s usually used in the outer layer of a Salwar Kameez, often paired with satin or crepe lining. The main appeal is visual—think embellished net sleeves, net dupattas, or full-length net jackets. Great for cocktail nights and fashion-forward events where you want to be a little extra. While it’s not the most practical for everyday wear, net Salwar Kameez bring that glam factor like nothing else

8. Linen – The Underrated Game-Changer

Linen Salwar Kameez is a blessing for summer weddings and outdoor events. It has the breathability of cotton but looks more textured and luxurious. It doesn’t cling, it doesn’t trap heat, and it gives off a soft, matte look. If you want something classy and clean without heavy embroidery, linen is your best friend. It’s slowly gaining popularity in designer circles, and at Nihal Fashions, we’re loving how linen is giving traditional styles a fresh, global twist

9. Rayon and Viscose – Blends That Work

Rayon and viscose are semi-synthetic fabrics made from natural fibers. They combine the best of both worlds—comfort and sheen. These fabrics are often used for printed Salwar Kameez because they take color beautifully. They’re budget-friendly, drape well, and are low maintenance. Perfect for casual wear, small functions, or when you want multiple looks without burning a hole in your wallet. If you’ve bought a ready-to-wear Salwar Kameez from Nihal Fashions, chances are it’s made of one of these fab blends

10. Banarasi and Brocade – Traditional Royalty

Last but not least, if you want to go all out ethnic, Banarasi and brocade fabrics are the gold standard. Heavy, intricate, and woven with gold or silver threads, these fabrics scream tradition. Perfect for bridal Salwar Kameez, festive outfits, and cultural ceremonies. They’re heavier than most, but the rich patterns and bold colors are worth it. At Nihal Fashions, we treasure these heritage weaves and turn them into modern classics with a twist.

So, What’s the Verdict?

The answer to “What is Salwar Kameez commonly made from?” isn’t one-size-fits-all. It depends on the occasion, the weather, your style, and your comfort level. Cotton rules every look, silk owns the festive scene, and georgette plays the perfect middle ground. The good news? Nihal Fashions has something in every fabric type—so whether you’re team casual or team couture, we’ve got your Salwar Kameez game covered

Quick Style Tips Based on Fabric

If you’re going for comfort, stick to cotton, rayon, or linen. Want to glam up? Try silk, velvet, or net. Looking for flowy elegance? Georgette and chiffon are your pals. Need something crisp yet modern? Crepe is calling. And for all those special Indian moments that demand a nod to tradition, nothing beats Banarasi and brocade. Your Salwar Kameez speaks before you even say a word—and fabric is its loudest voice. So pick wisely and wear boldly.

Conclusion

From the cooling touch of cotton to the indulgent luxe of silk and velvet, the fabric you choose defines how your Salwar Kameez feels, looks, and performs. It’s the unsung hero behind every compliment you’ll receive. So next time you shop at Nihal Fashions, don’t just get wowed by the embroidery or prints. Pause and feel the fabric—because that’s where true style begins. No matter your size, shape, or style preference, we have the perfect Salwar Kameez waiting for you, crafted in the fabric that matches your vibe

Repeat after me, Scorpio, “Success and money effortlessly follow me wherever I go. The more I love what I do and how I do it, the more easily I shine into this world. My voice and my light are both important. I matter and what I am here to share matters. I am ready.” and if you feel any tinge of guilt or fear or anything but self confidence while you say this – keep repeating it until you begin feeling comfortable in your skin. It is not your skills that define where you get to in life. It is how confidently you show up in this world. Effortless manifesting has effortless feeling as its backbone. So drop your guard now.

Cosmic tip: Wave your imaginary wand and say, “Felix felicitous” to welcome fortuity in your life.

Your focus is your career, and for those not working conventionally, your focus is on your purpose, Sag. What is it that is yours and you create so wonderfully well – that lights you up, sparks joy in you and makes you forget about the world around you? That is your ikigai, your soul’s calling and what you are here for. It could be heading a big firm, or baking a cake for a loved one at home – in the eyes of the cosmos every single thing done with service is equally important. Also, a message for some – have you been thinking of turning your hobby into something that brings in some moolah? The Universe is giving you a green flag in that direction.

Cosmic tip: Get ready to elevate your life – a promotion, personally or professionally, is here for you.

Bring ethers to matter and your ideas to life. Capricorn, you have much benevolent fairy energy around you. So make the most of it. Do what you love – respectfully. Appreciate all the little luxuries that surround you and literally bask in them – respectfully. Allow your mind, body and soul to heal and recharge by welcoming this happy, vibrant and refreshing energy to enter your life and surround it with beauty and miracles. To feel this fairy presence more wholly in your life, spend some time in nature, connect with the earth or simply talk to your plant with love and respect.

At the Met Gala 2025, Shah Rukh Khan’s understated Sabyasachi look also drew global attention to some high-wattage personalised jewellery that the star wore with effortless cool. Rather than chasing spectacle, the actor leaned into intentional details: monogrammed horn buttons, his initials, and a Bengal Tiger cane set in gold. Inspired by Khan’s refined take on jewellery, we bring you a curated list of homegrown labels that focus on personalised pieces:

For those who like their jewellery to whisper, not shout, STAC Fine Jewellery crafts elegant, discreet custom charms. Delicate gold necklaces and fine initial bracelets keep personalisation streamlined, making quiet statements of identity. Much like Khan himself.

MISHO Designs offers initials sculpted into modernist heirlooms. Their signet rings and architectural pendants echo Khan’s thoughtfully composed Met Gala aesthetic, striking the balance between bold forms and strong individuality.

Outhouse Jewellery threads in a touch of whimsy with enamelled medallions and customised initials suspended from delicate bracelets. The label’s vibrant yet sophisticated take on bespoke jewellery are aligned with those who favour accessories made with a restrained hand and an eye for detail.

If geometric precision is a big deal for you, Etchcraft Emporium’s Personalised Cuboid Pendant caps it just right with charming minimalism (₹1,199). Characterised by engraved lettering, the pendant pronounces the wearer’s identity without making an overwhelming statement.

For the romantic at heart, Inaya Accessories’ 22KT Gold Plated Cursive Brass Name Necklace (₹1,499) may seem like a natural choice. Crafted in delicate cursive script, this necklace delivers nostalgia wrapped in contemporary elegance — exactly what Khan exuded at the Met Gala red carpet.

Also read:

All the Indian-origin stars on the 2025 Met Gala red carpet—from Shah Rukh Khan to Diljit Dosanjh

Priyanka Chopra paired her Balmain polka dot jacket and dress with a 241-carat emerald necklace at the Met Gala

Dua Lipa’s Chanel look for the 2025 Met Gala was adorned with feathers, crystals… and Callum Turner