Posts in category: Life Style

Samantha Ruth Prabhu, who was styled by Prayag Menon last evening, wore a kamarbandh with her Krésha Bajaj sari. Kamarbandhs have been part of Indian attire for centuries, especially during weddings and classical dances. They were usually ornate, made of gold or silver, and worn over saris or lehengas. In recent years, this trend has inspired both designers and stylists. Last month, at Lakmé Fashion Week, designers like Mohammed Mazhar paired saris and contemporary silhouettes with statement belts and wooden corsets.

The actor wore an ivory sari crafted from a sheer, lightweight fabric featuring a scalloped border of thread embroidery and lace detailing with geometric and floral mandala-inspired patterns. A gold kamarbandh added definition and structure to the look. For accessories, she opted for statement earrings and a slim bracelet, allowing the sari to remain the focal point. Side-parted soft waves and nude makeup added the finishing touches.

Dreams can feel stunningly real, leave us shaken and surprise us with their surreal storylines. But do dream interpretations amount to anything? Sigmund Freud, the famed neurologist and founder of modern-day psychoanalysis, had a lot to say about how we might interpret the visual, emotional and cognitive sensations we experience while asleep. He believed our dreams are actually the disguised representations of our unconscious desires, thoughts, wishes and motivations. It’s a theory that is still very much alive today.

“Throughout history, there has been both fascination and debate about what dreams are, what causes them, what they mean and the benefit they may carry,” Stephanie Gailing, wellness astrologer and author of The Complete Book of Dreams, explains. “Since antiquity, they have maintained a very important role in cultures across the globe, revered for their visionary wisdom.”

The act of trying to suss out the possible meaning of dreams can be traced as far back as the ancient Sumerian civilisation, when many people used them as prophetic guides and to help them make important decisions. According to Gailing, it wasn’t until the early 20th century—and the birth of modern psychology—that dreams were seen as a reflection of the subconscious. Nowadays, it’s common to interpret dreams in order to better understand our overall well-being.

Thea Gallagher, PsyD, clinical associate professor of psychiatry at NYU Langone Health, breaks down dreams, which typically occur in the rapid eye movement (REM) sleep stage where images or stories play out in our minds, into three types: a pleasant dream with an ideal outcome, one with a less preferred outcome (or oftentimes a bizarre one), and a nightmare. What these dreams mean is personal and can vary; it all depends on the dreamer.

“Dreams can show us things that we are experiencing in waking life but are not acknowledged in our conscious minds,” explains Gailing. “Either because we don’t have space to process them or we don’t want to deal with certain feelings or thoughts.”

Though the interpretation of dreams will be different for everyone, there are universal themes that pop up and are worth looking into if you’re trying to figure out what your dreams might mean. Consider this your crash course in basic dream analysis—or, a handy little dream dictionary, just for you. Read on for 14 of the most common types of dreams and what they could mean for you.

Dreams of being pregnant

Depending on what is going on in your life, being pregnant in a dream can mean totally different things. Gailing says it’s important to look at the details of your dream to help flesh out the overall meaning. You’ll also want to explore how you’re feeling after the dream; she says your emotional reaction can provide insights into what the dream might mean to you personally. “For example, if you have a dream about being pregnant and you have been working hard on a creative project, the dream may relate to this period of creativity you are experiencing and how you feel about it,” she explains. “It’s always important to take the dream into the context of what is happening in a person’s waking life.”

Dreams of falling

If you’re dreaming about being in a free fall, Gailing says it could mean that you feel out of control and don’t “have steady footing” in some aspect of your life. On the other end of that spectrum, however, she says that if you find yourself falling in a dream but then start flying, it could represent freedom and trusting the timing of your life.

Dreams of being chased

Someone chasing you in your dreams is another sign that you might not feel in control. Gailing says it could signify a couple of different fears, such as concern that someone is out to get you or that you’re avoiding certain responsibilities.

Dreams of flying

Whether you’re dreaming of flying like a bird or cos-playing your favourite Marvel superhero, Gailing says that the vivid dream of flying symbolises freedom and a need for adventure. However, if the dream turns into you falling as you fly, it could also mean you feel ungrounded. So remember to pay attention to what’s going on in the dream and how you feel.

Dreams of death

An obvious reading, Gailing says, of dreaming about death is that it could signify your internal fear about dying. But here’s another way she says that you can look at it: it could just be giving you a sense that a chapter or situation in your life is coming to an end—and that doesn’t always have to be a bad thing.

Dreams of your teeth falling out

One of the most common dreams people tend to have involves teeth falling out. Gailing says that there are three main dream interpretations for this. First, it could signify some sort of rebirth and transformation, as you’re releasing something old and making space for something new. The other two are more introspective and could signify feeling some sort of loss of control or internal concerns about how you present in public.

Dreams of being late or missing a deadline

These habits of tardiness showing up in your dreams usually show some sort of worry you have internally. Gailing says that it could represent worrying about a lost opportunity or stress around your relationship with time. It could also show that you’re overwhelmed by being overcommitted with responsibilities.

Dreams of being naked in public

Have you recently fallen flat on your face while walking through a crowd? Or accidentally liked an old photo of an ex while on a social media (read: stalking) deep dive? If you’re not one to brush it off and keep it moving, those embarrassed feelings may manifest in dreamland as you sleep. If you find yourself dreaming about being naked in public, Gailing says it’s most likely connected to a recent embarrassing situation you’ve found yourself in.

Dreams of infidelity

The good news: dreaming of infidelity isn’t necessarily a sign from the universe that you’re with the wrong person or that you’re tapping into some psychic ability to predict the demise of your current relationship. The bad news: you might be dealing with trust issues in general and operating from a place of fear. Both Gallagher and Gailing say that if you’re not feeling secure or have been betrayed in the past, it’s normal to have those subconscious feelings of distrust creep up. Maybe you’re having this dream because a partner has cheated on you in the past or you’re scared something will ruin a beautiful current connection. Just remember, it’s important to ground yourself rather than lash out over this particular dream.

Every generation seems to go through a rite of passage where they “discover” trends—like the classic shirt and jeans combo—and ideas already recognized by those who came before them. Among these, fashion is a particularly vulnerable area. The entire fashion trend cycle can often feel like a long exercise in collective forgetfulness. So, let’s take a moment to acknowledge that the outfit formula that fashion experts claim will be the trend for spring 2025 is neither original nor new. It is not particularly interesting or, as Miranda Priestly would put it, “groundbreaking.” However, perhaps that lack of originality is precisely what makes it appealing.

Edward Berthelot/Getty Images

Valentina Frugiuele/Getty Images

Yes, a shirt and jeans broke the internet when Kate Moss traversed the runway for Bottega Veneta’s Spring/Summer 2023 show. And yes, Charli XCX may have donned a striped shirt and skinny jeans for her big Billboard shoot in 2024. But they did so because this simple pairing has a long-standing pedigree in the It-girl’s wardrobe.

In the ’70s, it was the Jane Birkins and Farrah Fawcetts who put the nonchalant pairing through its paces, opting for free-loving flares and slim-fitting shirts. Fast forward to the ’90s, and it was Naomi Campbell, Princess Diana, and Cindy Crawford who repped double denim and waist-cinching silhouettes with their dashing-through-the-airport style. Then, in the Noughties, we flipped back to flares—except this time they came with pubic bone-grazing waistbands, boho button-ups, and ballet pumps. Kate Moss, we salute you.

Daniel Zuchnik/Getty Images

Claudio Lavenia/Getty Images

For 2025? Oversized is king. This fashion week, off-duty models and fashion editors alike sported oversized, corporate-coded shirting that looked like it had been swiped from a junior associate at JP Morgan. The colours? Crisp whites, pale pinks, classic stripes, and city-boy blues reigned supreme.

Denim-wise, despite fashion’s ongoing attempts to (re)discover skinny jeans, it’s clear the mantra remains: the baggier, the better. But whatever you do, skip the heels—take your cues from the ’90s jet-setting supers and stick to low-key flats like sneakers, loafers, or ballet pumps. Less Posh and Becks, more Sofia Coppola.

Silhouettes may shift and colourways come and go, but in its purest form, a shirt and jeans is the so-basic-it’s-brilliant outfit pairing that has become a gold standard for a reason. And as they say—if it ain’t broke…

Plaid shirt + chain-detail jeans

Grained Leather Bucket Bag

Ruffled Checked Woven Mini Shirt Dress

Blue Balloon-Fit Jeans With Cuffs And Detachable Chain

Tasman Embroidered Suede Slippers

Studded jeans + white shirt

Brown Distressed Leather Bomber Jacket

Lui Organic Cotton-Poplin Shirt

Uma Patent-Leather Mary Jane Ballet Flats

Harvey Nichols – Winona studded wide-leg jeans

Pink shirt + patchwork jeans

Clean Cut Regular T-Shirt

Cropped Denim Jeans With Tartan Patchwork

Layered check shirt + grey baggy jeans

Buckle Leather Bucket Bag With Studded Belt

Cinched-in shirt + dark-wash jeans

Bootcut jeans + fitted shirt

Le Teckel Small Shoulder Bag

Tokyo Suede Low-Top Trainers

Sneeki Low-Rise Straight-Leg Jean

Blue poplin shirt + turn-up jeans

Ginnie Leather Penny Loafers

Facade Turn-Up Straight-Leg Jeans

This story first appeared on British Vogue.

Also read:

8 denim trends we predict will be big in 2025

The coolest jeans of 2025 are a hybrid of two classics

Are sneaker heels the new power shoe for Gen Z?

Spanx founder Sara Blakely is tapping into the sneaker-heel frenzy with Sneex, her latest foray into shaping and structure—this time for your feet.

Last year, the Puma Speedcat was the unexpected footwear star, gaining traction among the fashion crowd for its sleek, motorsport-inspired silhouette. The shoe embodied Balletcore’s influence on footwear, with its form-fitting, ultra-streamlined design. Sneaker heels take the sharp, athletic aesthetic Gen Z loves and elevate it—literally. They’re the perfect blend of sporty and ironic, which is why they’re being spotted on every fashion-forward celebrity, from Rihanna to Bella Hadid, Alexa Chung, and Zara Larsson.

Why sneaker heels are the ultimate Internet shoe

What makes sneaker heels even more appealing is their Instagrammable quality. In the era of “photo dump” culture, fashion is about making a statement, and these shoes do just that. Sneaker heels are visually striking, and designed for close-up shots, mirror selfies, and editorial-style fashion content.

We’ve all been there—you chip or break a nail and immediately ask yourself how to make your nails grow faster.

For some reason, breaking a nail always seems to happen at the most inopportune time, so I’m sure I’m not the only one who’s wondered how to fix a manicure ASAP. Luckily for us all, there are solutions. Even if you haven’t dealt with a broken nail before, but you’re just hoping to grow your nails to be longer and stronger, we’ve got you covered. From keeping a healthy diet to using cuticle oil, a nail strengthening serum, or lotion regularly, helping your nails grow faster isn’t as hard as it may seem (there are also plenty of natural home remedies you can try).

Keep in mind, though, that everyone’s nails grow at different rates. “Nails, like hair, can be a reflection of our internal health, so the number one thing is to pay attention to your overall health,” says Stephanie Stone, an Essie celebrity manicurist based in Los Angeles. We tapped her and two dermatologists to weigh in on the eight best tips on how to make your nails grow faster.

Try minoxidil

Wondering where you’ve heard of minoxidil before? Minoxidil is the active ingredient in Rogaine, which treats hair loss. “Minoxidil stimulates hair growth by increasing blood flow to hair follicles,” says Ravi R Patel, MD, board-certified dermatologist and founder of House of Dermatology in Alpharetta, Georgia. It can actually have a similar effect on nails (after all, they’re both made of keratin). “Since the nail bed lies just beneath your nail and is rich in blood vessels, better circulation can mean healthier, quicker-growing nails,” he explains.

Using 5% topical minoxidil twice daily can help promote nail growth, says Carmen Castilla MD, board-certified dermatologist at New York Dermatology Group. It usually comes in foam or liquid form and “can be gently massaged into the nail area,” adds Dr Patel. Accessibility won’t be an issue with topical minoxidil: It’s available over the counter without a prescription.

Another minoxidil option is going the oral route (2.5mg by mouth daily), though this one does require a prescription from your doctor. We’d probably stick to the topical option, since oral minoxidil “comes with potential side effects such as leg swelling, palpitations, and unwanted hair growth,” warns Castilla.

Get your collagen

Collagen peptides are all the rage right now in wellness routines, and for good reason. The skin, nail, and hair health benefits this supplement can provide are dermatologist-approved: “Collagen is rich in amino acids like proline and glycine that support keratin production, the key protein in nails,” says Patel. “Studies have shown that taking 2.5 grams of collagen peptides daily can improve nail growth and reduce breakage and brittleness.” You can buy collagen peptides in powder form and stir a scoop into your morning coffee, tea, or smoothie.

Skip the manicure

As much as we love our trips to the salon and fun nail art, remember to give your fingertips regular breaks from manis, nail polish, and nail polish remover, especially if you have gel nails or acrylic nails. “Frequent exposure to gel polish, acrylics, and harsh acetone removers can thin your natural nails over time, making them weaker and more prone to damage,” says Dr. Patel. While it may not directly cause your nails to grow more quickly, giving them a little time to recover will give them the chance to grow out without chipping or breakage.

Check for nutritional deficiencies

To the doctor’s office we go: Make sure to schedule regular checkups with your physician, such as a board-certified internal medicine doctor, “because internal factors such as low iron or abnormal thyroid hormone levels can impact nail growth,” says Dr Castilla. Specific vitamins like biotin, iron, zinc, vitamin C, vitamin D, and vitamin B12 are essential for nail growth, adds Dr Patel, and deficiencies can not only lead to slow-growing nails but also brittle or ridged ones. Your doctor will order a quick blood test and advise which supplements to add to your daily routine to restore balance and increase nail strength.

Cosmic tip: Share what is on your mind. What began as a seed around October last year must grow now.

Honour your commitments now, Sag, as this is more a time to give rather than take. You may have felt drawn to introspect, even carve a perfect niche in your head before you feel ready to leap forward, however, look around you, your hard work is paying off. Your consistent efforts are what have brought you onto this point where you can see where you wish to go, even though you are still making your way there. Hold onto your vision and do not allow the external noise to add chaos to your mind. Delegate, accept help and simply review what you would like to shift from your current reality for a more solid and relaxed future.

Cosmic tip: Assert your creativity and go for the kill.

Are you making time for your loved ones? Are you focussing on striking a balance between your ambitions and your present life? Capricorn, while you may be reminiscing about a perfect time that was, remember to also take action in your now. Move your energy from your heart space towards a more grounded approach to life – implementing your ideas and thoughts in actionable ways to create something lasting. Your life can be shaped any way you like – so choose a path where you are comfortable with the results in the long run.

Cosmic tip: Have confidence in yourself – you are a child of the cosmos.

Making peace with your past may not be easy, but Aquarius, it is the need of the hour. How do you do this, we hear you say? By finding an effective outlet for your thoughts, feelings and pent up emotions aka memories. Put on some frequency music, or the sound of some calming ocean waves, close your eyes and meditate to this relaxing sound. It will not only soothe your soul, but also help you open your eyes to the possibilities that lie ahead. Remember that after a great release, comes some healing time of peace and calm.

Cosmic tip: Express your love and fears around losing it, as openly as you express your thoughts.

If major life decisions lie ahead of you, Pisces, this may feel like a pivotal time in your life. Your angels chime in, reminding you that in life, there is never a loss that you encounter. Either you create a win-win situation, or a learn-and-grow situation. When you cling on too tightly you not only create a resistance to change but also to the myriad of ways in which you can allow your life to bloom in unknown and fortunate ways. Luck is on your side, Pisces, so why not choose with the heart, why not choose what really matters, why not let the mind curate what the heart shows?

Cosmic tip: Expect a miraculous release or forward momentum this full moon.

This isn’t the only summer floral in the actor’s repertoire. While promoting her two recent romantic comedies, Loveyapa (2025) and Nadaaniyan (2025), Kapoor stayed true to her soft-girl aesthetic, elevating every ensemble with accessories. Think back to her bohemian floral look for Lollapalooza or the ivory corset top by Montsand, styled with denim jeans and heels.

And she’s not alone—other Gen Z stars are embracing similar trends. Ananya Panday’s vacation wardrobe was full of playful prints and relaxed silhouettes. From her fitted yet comfortable leopard print skirt from Skims x Dolce & Gabbana, styled with a black tube top and Chanel’s mesh clutch from their Spring-Summer 2025 runway, to breezy sarongs in swirls of blue paired with laid-back tank tops, bandana tops, and bathing suits in primary colours, capturing the carefree spirit of summer dressing with a high-fashion twist.

From Vogue‘s fashion-desk:

“Keep the floral top, but pair it with slouchy cargo pants in a soft olive or stone, something that gives it a bit of grown-up grit. A cropped bomber or worn-in denim jacket thrown over adds that undone, off-duty edge. Trade the sandals for something sharper, like kitten heels or a pair of well-loved sneakers. Keep the Lady Dior for that perfect contrast to an insouciant look,” says Vogue India’s Fashion Associate, Manglien Gangte.

Also read:

Khushi Kapoor sported a lacy summer outfit for Lollapalooza

Khushi Kapoor promoted her film in a Maje Paris satin mini skirt with flowers inlayed with beads and sequins

Ananya Panday’s vacation wardrobe was full of playful prints

Positioned as a refined Japanese izakaya, the space undergoes a transformation come night, turning into a buzzy Tokyo bar called Neon Nights—a tribute to the city’s after-hours culture. With Michelin star chef David Myers at the helm, you can expect a menu offering a smattering of gastronomic bites such as toro tartare with sriracha and crispy rice, yakitori chicken meatballs with onsen tamago, and cocktails that aim to capture the soul of Tokyo with Asian-inspired ingredients.

Address: Asset Area 4, Hospitality District, Aerocity, New Delhi. Tel: 08527488127

Aujasya Cafe, The Leela Ambience Gurugram Hotel & Residences

Aimed at offering patrons a holistic wellness experience, the hotel’s new cafe, Aujasya, makes for a serene pit stop for a quick bite or detox smoothie, especially after enjoying a spa treatment. The wholesome menu features superfood-forward soups and salads, Himalayan earth bowls, smoothies and herbal brews that will cater to most dietary requirements of individuals.

Address: National Highway 8, Ambience Island, DLF Phase 3, Sector 24, Gurugram, Tel: 09717596088

Indian Accent x Benares London

Your wedding reception is the ideal opportunity to make a statement—a celebration of love and design all combined. Though the wedding day appearance usually follows convention, the reception is when new trends, audacious experiments, and personal flair really come through. With striking designs, vivid hues, and novel style ideas, Indian brides in 2025 are reinventing post-wedding fashion.

This list of the most discussed reception outfit ideas for Indian brides this year will help you find either classic elegance or modern charm.

1. Desi Drama Fusion Gowns

Indian bridal trend in 2025 will revolve on fusion clothing. Consider Western-style ball gowns including traditional Indian embroidery including mirror work, gota patti or zardozi. Combining Western fashion with Indian work, brides are choosing dramatic flares, plunging necklines, even capes. For receptions, pastel-toned gowns in lavender, mint green, ivory and dusty rose are particularly sought for their gentle yet royal mood.

Hot Tip: For that dramatic walk-in, go for a detachable trail or cloak; then, change to something smaller for dancing the night away!

2. Embellished Sarees with Modern Drapes

At receptions, sarees are making a major comeback—but with a twist. Pre-stitched, concept sarees that are easy to wear and look absolutely dazzling are designers reinterpreting classic drapes. On the scene are sequins, crystals, feathers, and metallic finishes. Think shimmering silver sarees, pure materials, modern blouse cuts like bustiers, halters or backless styles.

Style It With: Statement diamond chokes or ear cuffs, then finish the reception flair with a sleek ponytail or vintage waves.

3. Modern Lehenga Sets

Though they’re not very popular right now, lehengas have surely changed. Brides in 2025 are leaning toward thinner fabrics like georgette, organza, and crepe in sleeker designs. More elegant is embroidery; consider 3D floral appliqués, ombré hues, or tone-on-tone thread work. Particularly in style are colors including emerald green, champagne gold and deep mauve.

Modern Twist: For an edgy but elegant appearance, team your lehenga with an off-shoulder shirt, ruffled dupatta or corset-style choli.

4. Elegant Indo-Western Co-ords Set

Coord sets are becoming popular among brides seeking something elegant and distinctive. Consider high-slit skirts with embroidered crop tops, palazzos with asymmetric jackets or even pant sets modeled from sarees. Brides who want to veer from the conventional path but yet make it festive will find these enfits ideal.

How It Works: Total win-all: co-ords are simple, incredibly comfy and you may reuse them later for celebrations or parties.

5. Velvet is Back – But Better 

Especially for winter events, Velvet is making a lavish return in bridal wear. But this year it’s more about deep jewel tones like sapphire blue, forest green, and wine than about strong maroons. Loving velvet lehengas, dresses and even fusion jackets that accentuate richness without overpowering the outfit, brides are.

Pro Tip: For the ideal winter bride gloss, balance the thick texture with few accessories and dewy makeup.

6. Metallics and Mirror Work

Brides in 2025 are wearing foil designs, glittering sequins, and vivid shine with mirror work. Mirror embellishments on reception clothing not only provide glitter but also accentuate photos under lights. Whether worn in sarees, dresses or lehengas, gold and silver metallics accentuate a glitzy red-carpet impression.

Style Idea: For a whole diva moment, use metallic shoes, smokey eyes and delicate curls.

7. Minimalist Beauty for the Win

Not every bride wants to go OTT, hence minimalist celebration designs become really important. Rising in popularity are monotone palettes, clean cuts, solid colors, subdued needlework. Understated elegance with sleek silk sarees, satin gowns or lehengas with geometric designs and rigid forms is being sought for by brides.

Keep It Simple: Without overdosing a simple appearance, a strong red lip or a sleek bun with fresh flowers might accentuate it.

Read more – How to Style Indian Outfits for Any Occasion?

Final Thoughts

For Indian brides, 2025 seems to be the year of self-expression. There is no shortage of reception dress inspiration regardless of your taste in glam gowns, striking sarees or eccentric Indo-Western ensembles. The secret is to pick something that not only captures your style but also lets you boldly and comfortably celebrate. Ultimately, your reception is your chance to shine, dance and really savor the happiness of being a bride—in style!

Based on your wedding theme or body type, want Indian outfit ideas or styling advice? For tailored suggestions, drop a note below or contact with us on Instagram.

It feels like everyone is drinking matcha these days. Every time I open Instagram, someone’s busy whisking up a cup. I asked a nutritionist friend if it actually had any real benefits, and she said it’s a great alternative to coffee for an energy boost.

“Matcha gives you sustained energy because it comes from a concentrated form of green tea,” explains nutritionist Mariana Perez Trejo, who drinks it regularly. “Coffee causes a sharp energy spike—that’s why you feel like you need cup after cup just to keep going.”

When she told me it helps with fatigue, I was intrigued. But, as she warned, the quality of the matcha really matters. “If it’s not high quality, you miss out on most of its benefits.”

So I decided to dig deeper—turn to the experts, figure out what makes matcha actually healthy (or not) and understand its benefits.

What are the benefits of matcha?

Matcha, in itself, is great for your health. “Green tea in powdered form lets you consume the entire leaf, which is where all its benefits are concentrated,” explains food coach Giovanna Alva. “One of its biggest advantages is its high antioxidant content, especially EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate), which is known for fighting cellular ageing and reducing inflammation.”

What does matcha do in the body?

Alva also notes that matcha helps improve focus and mental calm. “It contains theine, which is combined with L-theanine—an amino acid that smooths out the effects of theine, promoting a steady state of alertness without the sharp spikes or crashes you get from coffee.”

He adds that L-theanine also boosts the production of dopamine and serotonin—AKA the “happy hormones.” “That’s why people say matcha ‘activates’ you without overstimulating the nervous system. It’s a gentler option, especially for those prone to anxiety or nervousness,” says Alva.

And the benefits don’t stop there. According to the nutrition expert, matcha also stimulates metabolism, helps regulate blood sugar levels, and supports the immune system. “That’s thanks to its high concentration of polyphenols and vitamins C, A, and E.”

What are the downsides of matcha?

“If it’s not high quality, matcha can contain heavy metals and lead due to soil contamination where it’s grown,” warns Giovanna Alva. “It can also cause acidity or digestive discomfort in people with sensitive stomachs—especially if consumed on an empty stomach.”