Posts in category: Life Style

There was a time when falling in love on screen meant declarations in the rain, last-minute airport chases and slow-motion glances across train platforms. We grew up on a cinematic diet of chiffon sarees fluttering amidst Swiss landscapes, misunderstandings smoothed over by a hug and heroes who always, always, knew when to bring flowers. Were those romcoms perfect? No. They were laced with casual sexism, obsessive jealousy and far too many no-means-yes moments. And yet, for all their flaws, they gave us something that is achingly rare today: stories that made us believe in love; foolishly, but earnestly.

A still from Nadaaniyan (2025)

Today, love feels different. We prefer texting over talking. Dating culture is more about the ick than the spark. Romcoms haven’t just vanished; they’ve lost their magic. Bollywood finds itself torn between reflecting the present (Gehraiyaan) and rebooting the past (Ishq Vishk Rebound), neither of which captures the messy, heart-on-sleeve charm of an old-school love story.

“I think the romcom is a dead genre,” says journalist and screenwriter Devarsi Ghosh. “The younger crop of actors helming them just can’t seem to carry them. And more than that, there’s a widespread feeling of heteropessimism.” Ghosh attributes part of the genre’s fall to a cultural mood shift. “Misogyny among young men is extreme today, and young women find no reason to see heterosexual relationships as aspirational.”

The problems aren’t just ideological—they’re industrial. The genre faltered when ’90s heartthrobs aged out of ‘puppy love’ roles and younger stars failed to fill their shoes. Love stories, once framed against family (Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge, Mohabbatein, Saathiya) and religion (Veer-Zaara, Jodhaa Akbar) as the big villains, started dealing with existential crises instead (Katti Batti, Tamasha). It was novel, until it wasn’t.

VI: The heirloom quality comes through in the designs. How did you balance that kind of poetry with practicality?

AK: There’s one piece I love, a phone case that stretches to fit any size phone. I’ve reached a point where I don’t even carry an entire bag. I just want to carry my phone. The idea is that you can still make a statement without carrying much. We also have more traditional silhouettes, lined in satin, embroidered, and printed on the inside. Some are highly functional, others are almost like jewellery.

VI: How does this collection reflect your ongoing dialogue with craft?

AK: The essence is unmistakably Indian. It’s rooted in craft, in memory, in culture. But I also wanted these pieces to blur lines. I’d just as happily wear one of them with denim as I would with a sari.

VI: Were there specific techniques or craftspeople you collaborated with?

AK: All the metalwork was done in Bengal, by artisans who traditionally make fine jewellery. But I didn’t limit the work to one region or craft. It was more about creating a shared language, borrowing techniques where they served the idea best.

Over the years, the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s annual Costume Institute gala, popularly known as the Met Gala, has become synonymous with striking displays of couture, rivalled only by the masterful coifs—decorated with subtle blooms and subversive headpieces alike—that accompany them. See: Beyoncé’s beaded birdcage veil, circa 2014, designed by Riccardo Tisci, or, in a move that has left an indelible mark on red-carpet history, the extraordinary bejewelled bishop’s hat that Rihanna donned to the “Heavenly Bodies: Fashion and the Catholic Imagination” gala four years later.

This year, the Met Gala returns with the theme “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style”, spotlighting the artistry of Black dandyism and the transformative power of tailored menswear. As we anticipate a parade of bespoke brilliance on the red carpet, it’s the perfect moment to reflect on the head-turning hair accessories that have crowned past Met Galas—from veils whispering secrets to headpieces that redefined the boundaries of fashion.

Photo: Getty Images

Photo: Getty Images

Marisa Berenson, 1974

Marisa Berenson glittered from head to toe at the 1974 “Romantic and Glamorous Hollywood Design” gala.

When it comes to ethnic wear, a kurta pajama stands out as one of the most versatile and timeless outfits in a man’s wardrobe. But let’s face it—no matter how stunning the fabric or rich the embroidery, if the fit is off, the whole look falls flat.

If you’ve ever ordered a beautifully designed kurta pajama only to discover it feels too snug at the shoulders or too short at the sleeves, you know exactly what we mean. That’s why understanding how to take your measurements accurately is essential before purchasing your next outfit, especially if you’re ordering online.

This guide is here to walk you through every measurement you’ll need to ensure a kurta pajama for men fits just right—comfortable, elegant, and ready to impress.

Why Accurate Measurements Matter in Ethnic Wear

A kurta pajama is not just a garment—it’s a reflection of style, tradition, and personality. The right fit can enhance your appearance and confidence, while an incorrect one can make even the most luxurious fabric look awkward. Custom sizing or choosing the best fit from a size chart depends entirely on one thing: precise body measurements.

Unlike casual Western outfits that might allow some leeway, ethnic wear typically involves specific tailoring. Whether you prefer a slim-fit kurta for men or a relaxed classic style, accuracy is the only route to sophistication.

Getting Started: What You Need

Before diving into the process, make sure you have a few essentials on hand:

• A soft, flexible measuring tape (cloth or tailor’s tape works best)
• A mirror or a friend to assist (some measurements are tricky solo)
• A notepad or your phone to record the numbers
• A well-fitting kurta or shirt for comparison if needed

Ensure you are standing upright in comfortable clothing. Avoid measuring over thick garments or loosely draped fabrics.

Upper Body Measurements for the Kurta

1. Chest

Wrap the measuring tape around the fullest part of your chest, just beneath the arms. Ensure the tape is straight across your back and comfortably snug but not tight. This is one of the most crucial measurements as it defines the overall fit of the kurta across your torso.

2. Shoulder Width

Measure from the edge of one shoulder bone to the other across your upper back. This determines how well the kurta will sit across your shoulders. If it’s too narrow, it restricts movement. If it’s too broad, it hangs loosely and spoils the shape.

3. Sleeve Length

Start from the shoulder tip and extend down to your wrist. Keep your arm relaxed while measuring. If your kurta style is three-quarter or rolled sleeve, adjust accordingly by reducing 1–2 inches.

4. Kurta Length

Measure from the top of your shoulder (near the base of your neck) straight down to your desired length. This can range from mid-thigh to below the knees, depending on your preference and the occasion. Shorter lengths work well for casual wear, while longer kurtas are perfect for formal and festive looks.

5. Neck Circumference

Place the measuring tape around the base of your neck where the collar of the kurta will sit. This is especially important for mandarin collar or bandhgala designs.

Lower Body Measurements for the Pajama

6. Waist

Measure around your natural waistline, which is usually just above your belly button. Do not pull in your stomach or hold your breath. A relaxed waist measurement ensures comfort, especially if you’re going to be wearing the outfit for long hours.

7. Hips

Stand with your feet together and measure around the fullest part of your hips and buttocks. This measurement helps in getting the right width for the pajama, especially if it’s a straight or slim-fit style.

8. Thigh

Measure around the fullest part of your thigh. This ensures that your pajama allows free movement without appearing tight or restrictive.

9. Inseam

Start from the inside top of your thigh and go down to the ankle. The inseam determines how high or low the pajama will sit and whether it will ride up when you sit or walk.

10. Outseam

This is measured from your waist down to the ankle along the side of your leg. It gives the total length of the pajama and is essential for churidar or narrow-bottom designs.

Putting It All Together

Once you have all your measurements, note them down carefully and double-check. If you’re shopping from a trusted online ethnic wear store like Nihal Fashions, compare your measurements with the size chart provided. If custom stitching is available, you can input your exact sizes for a tailored result.

It’s a good idea to keep a copy of your measurements saved for future purchases. Also, remember to retake measurements every 6 to 12 months, especially if your body size changes or you’re shopping for a different fit or style.

Fit Advice Based on Kurta Pajama Styles

Different styles of kurta pajama for men require slightly different fits. Here’s how to adapt your measurements accordingly:

Slim Fit:
Choose measurements that are closer to your actual body size, especially chest and waist. Avoid adding extra inches unless you want slight breathing room.

Regular Fit:
Add about one inch to your chest, waist, and hip measurements for a relaxed look that doesn’t cling to the body.

Churidar Pajamas:
These require longer inseams to create the ruched look at the ankle. Always measure a bit more than your actual leg length.

Pathani or Loose Pajamas:
Comfort is key, so you can add 1.5 to 2 inches around the waist and thigh for ease of movement.

Avoid These Common Measurement Mistakes

• Measuring over bulky clothes: Always measure over thin garments or directly on the body.
• Loose measuring: If the tape slips or hangs loosely, your size will be off.
• Using incorrect units: Make sure all measurements are in the same unit (inches or centimeters), depending on what your tailor or the website prefers.
• Not checking shoulder symmetry: Shoulders aren’t always even—measure both sides if needed and average them.
• Guessing sizes: Everybody is different. Skip the assumptions and go for precision.

Why Nihal Fashions Is Your Go-To for the Perfect Kurta Pajama Fit

Nihal Fashions understands that ethnic wear should feel as good as it looks. That’s why we offer detailed size guides, expert tailoring services, and premium fabric selections. Whether you’re shopping for festive occasions, family gatherings, or weddings, your fit should reflect both style and comfort.

Our platform is built to help you make informed choices—backed by an experienced team that ensures every kurta pajama for men meets high standards of design and measurement.

From fabric selection to final stitch, we make sure you feel confident in what you wear.

Final Thoughts

Finding a perfect kurta pajama for men begins with accurate measurements. It might feel like a task at first, but once you understand the process, it becomes second nature. The results speak for themselves: better fit, greater comfort, and a polished look that turns heads.

Whether you’re ordering a classic kurta for daily wear or an embroidered ensemble for a celebration, always begin with measurements. At Nihal Fashions, we’re here to help you look your traditional best one well-measured outfit at a time.

Cosmic tip: Trust what you see for yourself, even internally, over what others show you.

As you are willing to fuse your logic with your intuition, your patience with your swiftness, your surrender with aligned action – a lot becomes possible for you, Taurus. The cosmos asks you what is your decision and as you make a resolve it gears up to fill your life with more of what you ask for. Here is a pro tip to beat the mental fog – observe the cues and the synchronicities filling your life currently to make decisions that will lead you to your ideal place without delay.

Cosmic tip: Mother your dreams while you also teach yourself to fight it out.

Your third eye is being activated, Gemini, and while yes this can result in psychic gifts opening up for you, it is not limited to this. Your creativity, intuition, ideas and flair may be in full swing as your willingness to put these into action and test the waters. As you create and ideate from a space of serenity and bliss, you automatically tap into the wisdom of your star ancestors (can you spot your starship yet?). The world does not bind you down anymore because you are accepting that you are beyond it, and hence all magic is now possible.

Cosmic tip: See yourself doing well and you will.

Ready to burn textbooks that you assumed were guiding you but instead they only were teaching you how things work for others? Cancer, when you are born to be a guide you hols the guidebook within your soul, your heart and no where else. Whatever may have conspired up until now may have been tough, but the cosmos is here to applaud you for you inner grit and resilience to not back down. You are stepping into overflow and this abundance comes from within where you are the source of your happiness and nothing else.

Cosmic tip: You are what you seek.

You will always end up doing and being what you are meant to, Leo. Yes, there may be times you may go astray but it is in those moments that you must remember to ask yourself – what is it that I am meant to do? Give the cosmos and your guides permission to intervene and bring you back on track and trust that tiny voice that leads you on. Sometimes a little faith in yourself takes you a long way along the road. And sometimes that one step is the difference between night and day.

High heels will always have their place on the runway and the red carpet, but they’re no longer the only way to step up your game. From pointed flats to sculptural mules, skipping the high heels no longer means sacrificing style. Sometimes, style looks better grounded—literally. So if you’re dressing up but don’t fancy wobbling through the night, here are some foolproof alternatives for high heels that get the job done.

Ballerina flats

Dependable and unbothered. Whether you prefer The Row’s razor-sharp minimalism or Miu Miu’s girlish gloss, these classics are proof that staying close to the ground doesn’t mean sinking into anonymity.

Square Ballet Flat in Leather, The Row

Satin Ballerinas, Miu Miu

Platform loafers

Equal parts prep and punch. They’ve been stomping around for seasons now, from Prada’s patent renditions to Gucci’s colourful on. They say, “I’m serious, but not about to suffer.”

Chocolate patent leather loafers, Prada

Women’s Horsebit wedge loafer, Gucci

Kitten-heeled mules

They offer the whisper of a heel, minus the martyrdom. Jacquemus and Bottega Veneta keep the shapes sculptural and the sass intact—ideal for the fashion editor who’s been on her feet since sunrise.

Les Mules Basses snake-effect leather mules, Jacquemus

Blink Mule, Bottega Veneta

Sneakers

…are still the cheat code. Loewe’s slick leathers and Chloé’s laid-back silhouettes continue to be the go-to when you want polish without pretence. Worn with fluid dresses or a tailored suit, they toe the line between casual and capital-F Fashion.

Ballet Runner 2.0 in nylon and calfskin, Loewe

Chloé Kick sneaker, Chloé

Kohlapuris

The OG flat sandal. Sleek, hand-stitched, and unapologetically Indian, they’re the kind of shoe that looks just as good at a destination wedding as it does at a Soho brunch.

Karom – Flats Red, Aparajita Toor

Mary Jane

Always around, occasionally rebellious. With glossy straps and a side of hardware (thank you, Chanel and Dior), they’re the sensible shoe’s cooler cousin—slightly nostalgic, slightly naughty.

Also read:

Sneaker ballet flats: The trendy lovechild of sport and style

Mesh flats are everywhere—here are the most popular ones to buy

20 fun party flats to help you dance through the season

In an interview with Vogue last year, Karisma Kapoor had underlined her reticence towards accessories: “You’ll rarely see me wearing earrings. I like sharp looks and sometimes jewellery just isn’t required.” True to her words, Kapoor kept her accessories to a bare minimum for a recent Easter outing with her family, letting her outfit do all the talking.

The Murder Mubarak actor stepped out in a breezy bubblegum pink midi dress by Eka, with subtle panels and motifs in lavender, pink, and yellow that seemed like an unwitting nod to traditional Easter-egg colours. Kapoor layered the dress with a relaxed-fit rose-pink blazer, also by Eka, which was left unbuttoned to beat the heat.

Classic white Golden Goose footwear paired with Nike socks added a cool street style edge to her look. Yet again, Kapoor kept the accessories simple: a choker with a cross pendant, along with fuss-free rectangular huggies earrings, and oversized black sunglasses.

Be it walking the runway in Satya Paul at Lakmē Fashion Week or idyllic vacations in far-off coasts, Kapoor is all about less-is-more. Here are some notable examples of how her choice of understated accessories makes for sophisticated dressing.

Cooking among the clouds might sound like a bucket list item for most aspiring chefs, but I have little time for the idyllic landscape blanketed below and even less time to notice the storm clouds bunching ominously on the horizon. Without warning, a flash of lightning strikes and the hot air balloon starts we’re in plummeting towards the ground. The ingredients I had meticulously chopped are careening wildly, rocked back and forth by the wind. I am certain there is a plate somewhere at hand, but my visibility is impaired by the plumes of fire lining the way.

My husband is frantically calling out instructions from the other side of the fray—whether words of encouragement or crucial troubleshooting information, I will never know. All my attention is on the burger in my hand and the counter that lies just out of reach. Before I can entertain any thoughts about serving this order and saving the day, the words ‘game over’ flash mockingly on the screen, and I sink back into the sofa cushions in defeat. My fingers release their death grip on the controller, and my breathing returns to normal as my eyes stray to the far right of the screen. “The fire extinguisher was right next to me the whole time. I could have put out the fire,” I sigh. “I know, which is why I kept asking you to reach for it,” comes the response.

There is a testiness to the air. Overcooked, a chaotic cooking simulation game, has been popularly dubbed the “ultimate friendship breaker” by the internet. “If your relationship can survive this, it can survive anything,” proclaims a meme featuring a couple barking instructions at each other as they chop, slice and dice to save their (virtual) lives.

My husband and I decided to give the game a whirl in a bid to spend more time with each other. The manic scramble to beat down zombie hordes or conquer the inferno left me limp with exhaustion, but surprisingly, our relationship emerged stronger. As we made our way through shark-infested waters, we grew to realise some fundamental truths about our relationship and how each of us responds to stress. I found that I have a difficult time with task-switching, unable to focus on anything until the task at hand has been seen through from start to finish. My husband, on the other hand, has an unflinching eye trained on the bigger picture, steering our ship in the right direction while fighting off pirates.

Summer, in all its sultry splendour, doesn’t come quietly. It arrives with sweat, swelter and the slow, insidious rub of skin against skin. Thigh chafing, underarms, waistlines—no crevice is safe from the burn. Add tight fabrics, long days, and hot, humid weather that clings like polyester, and it’s no wonder skin chafing becomes a seasonal rite of passage. Pigmentation, rashes, irritation; your skin doesn’t just speak, it screams.

Enter the best anti-chafing products in India: elegant solutions to an inelegant problem. These aren’t your average body balms. Friction-fighting sticks, anti-chafing creams, barrier-building serums, and featherlight lotions laced with soothing botanicals. Designed for every curve and contour, they work hard so your skin doesn’t have to.

Below, our edit of the top-rated anti-chafing products that glide on, stay put, and keep you comfortably cool, no matter how high the mercury (or hemline) climbs.

Gold Bond Friction Defense Stick

This discreet anti-chafing stick glides on like a dream—cream-based but never messy—and creates a smooth barrier that works for all skin types. Aloe vera for chafing calms irritation, easing the burn and itch of rashes without any greasy aftermath or medicinal whiff. No drama, just soothing thigh chafing protection where you need it most.

Pee Safe Anti-Chafing Stick For Men & Women

One of the best anti-chafing products in India, this homegrown stick steps in like a calm best friend. Powered by coconut oil, aloe vera, vitamin E and eucalyptus, it balances your skin’s pH while keeping you cool, fresh and completely unbothered—even in hot and humid weather.

Sanfe Natural Anti-Chafing and Rash Cream

For the days when the weather feels personal—tight clothes, surprise heatwaves, long commutes—this anti-rash cream is your skin’s support system. Chamomile and coconut extracts reduce skin irritation and strengthen the barrier, while the lightweight formula sinks in fast, leaving zero greasy residue. A must for chafing prevention.

CosIQ Anti-Chafing Roll-On Serum With Bioecolea & Inulin

A post-workout essential, this anti-chafing roll-on targets irritation and body odour in all the sensitive spots. Formulated with Bioecolia and inulin, it glides on smoothly, dries fast, and keeps things feeling fresh, even after the sweatiest spin class or summer workout.

Skift Dry Feel Anti-Chafing Cream

Friction hotspots—inner thighs, waistlines, underarms, underboob, nipples—meet your match. With shea butter for skin, this ultra-soothing cream forms a breathable, comfortable barrier that keeps skin calm, even on the stickiest days. Your new go-to for daily chafing relief.

Megababe Thigh Rescue Anti-Chafe Stick

Dermatologist-recommended, gynaecologist-approved, and rumoured to sell one every 30 seconds, this cult-favourite anti-chafing stick is the real deal. Gentle enough for sensitive skin and seriously effective, it’s no-frills, no-fuss, and worth every swipe, especially during sweaty summer months.

Astercare ClearChaf – Anti-Chafing Cream

One cream, three benefits: it soothes rashes, prevents friction and tackles chafing-related body odour, courtesy of shea butter, almond oil and aloe vera. Ideal for post-workout recovery or sticky weather, it keeps irritation firmly in the rear-view mirror. A solid pick in the best anti-chafing cream category.

Body Glide Original Anti-Chafe Balm

A minimalist’s favourite, this balm offers fuss-free friction protection that runners and athletes swear by. It goes on dry, stays put, and is free from fragrance, petroleum and allergens. Just clean, effective defence against heat, sweat and skin friction—perfect for all-day wear.

Amaterasu Lifesciences LLP SkinEasi Activ Silicone Anti-Chafing Gel

Sweat-proof, movement-friendly and long-wearing, this silicone-based anti-chafing gel forms a lightweight shield that protects skin for hours. Ideal for inner thigh chafing, it’s perfect for long city days when stepping outside feels like walking into a furnace. Your rescue gel for summer skin struggles.