Posts in category: Life Style

What used to be a whisper: “I’m on Ozempic” has recently become a shout. Celebrities like Serena Williams, Oprah, and Kelly Clarkson are on the jab, AKA an injectionable medication like Ozempic, Zepbound or Mounjaro, which are synthetic versions of the GLP-1 hormone our body produces and the results typically include weight loss.

“GLP-1 is short for glucagon-like peptide-1, a hormone that we produce in our gut after we eat,” says Rocio Salas-Whalen, a board-certified physician who specializes in obesity medicine and endocrinology. Some 90% of Dr. Salas-Whalen’s patients are currently on a form of the medication, and it inspired her to write the book Weightless, out in December. “The main function of this hormone is to regulate glucose, but it also helps us feel full after we eat, reduces cravings and slows down gastric emptying. We have receptors for this hormone all throughout our bodies. GLP-1 medications, such as Ozempic and Zepbound are long-acting versions of our body’s GLP-1 hormone and have the same effects.”

Last year one in eight Americans reported having tried one of the drugs, which is typically prescribed to those with diabetes or obesity, because of the weight-loss side effect. Along with the weight loss, though, have come hair loss, facial sagging (known as Ozempic face) and potentially shady knockoffs. The latest trend tied to the drug? Microdosing. Watch What Happens Live host Andy Cohen recently confessed that he’s been doing it on his show Radio Andy.

“Given that for 20 years I have been asking people about their body regimens and that I’ve been pretty vocal about every time I go on a diet, I think it would be completely hypocritical not to share,” Cohen says. “This summer, [I lost] a good chunk of weight by microdosing a GLP-1.” The father of two said he was unhappy with his weight, but other health concerns, like “plaque in my arteries and high blood pressure,” motivated his decision to go on the drug.

“Microdosing a GLP-1 refers to taking a dose that is smaller than the FDA-approved therapeutic dose,” says Dr. Salas-Whalen. Dave Asprey, founder of Bulletproof Coffee and inventor of the term biohacking, agrees that microdosing is a fad that he hopes passes. Asprey began his weight-loss journey in 1995, weighing in at 300 pounds. It wasn’t exactly done what we would call the old-fashioned way (AKA just diet and exercise) because his tactics involved then experimental techniques like MCT oil, but he didn’t have GLP-1s as an option at the time.

“We’re all obsessed with GLP-1s right now because they deliver visible results in the short term and we live in a world that loves a quick fix,” Asprey tells me. “For someone who’s severely obese, that can be a real breakthrough. But the catch is that in most cases, you’re not just losing fat, you’re losing muscle. And it’s not just a little muscle. Scientists compare the muscle loss from GLP-1s to severe starvation.” He adds that he only tried a version of the drug once but “felt like I had morning sickness the entire time and thought, I really don’t want to feel like this all the time.”

What does the modern Indian bride want? It’s a (frequently exasperated) question many ask planners, photographers, decorators, brides’ mothers and, most of all, brides themselves. The truth is: it is a bold new era for the Indian wedding and, by extension, it’s a wide playing field for the Indian bride. As Vogue India speaks with women who are on the verge of tying the knot, round the year, we have lately found overwhelming emphasis on finding balance—between the traditional and the contemporary, the family and the individual, the past and the present.

There is perhaps nothing that better crystallises this desire, this ethos, this spirit than the heirloom: the pieces of jewellery, the saris, those well-preserved objects that defy the order of time and live on, across generations, embalmed in love and memory. Three brides tell us how they interpret the idea of heirlooms, as well as weddings, to their own unique, individual
tastes and style.

Aishwarya Ganesh, marketing professional, 29, Paris

Aishwarya: Corset, trenchcoat, BODEMENTS. Sari, PATOLA BY NIRMAL SALVI. Jewellery, TYAANI JEWELLERY. Shoes, FIZZY GOBLET

Love story: “We met back in 2014 during a college festival in Symbiosis (Pune). As friends and dancers, we were inseparable. Somewhere between the rehearsals and the spotlight, we realised we wanted more from each other. We’ve been dancing through life together ever since.”

An heirloom is: “About memory more than anything else. It’s the way an object can instantly bring someone close, even across time.”

I’m building my heirloom collection: “By holding onto objects that truly mean something: the sari my mom wore to a special celebration, the handwritten recipe she cooks every time my brother and I visit home, the nose piercing my grandmother wore since she was young.”

In season 5, Karen, who has always been kind of unaware about the whole Upside Down of it all, is suddenly confronted by a demogorgon who is after her youngest daughter, Holly. And, against all odds, she, like Joyce, suddenly transforms into a fearless warrior. She hides in the bathtub under her bubbles with her daughter, then, breaks her wine bottle and attacks the monster to keep her daughter safe. Once again, I found myself wanting to let out a riotous cheer.

While this might look like Karen’s first fight, it is, of course, anything but. Because, as the show subtly implies, every mum goes through their own quiet, unrecognised battles long before they ever encounter their first demogorgon. And while they may not involve actual monsters, these fights are just as real.

© 2025 Netflix, LLC.

For Karen, it’s the fight to keep her three children and husband’s lives in order. You see her balancing demands from her teen daughter, while spoon-feeding her youngest, while also calmly asking her husband, Ted, for help. She’s always the one to answer the door or the phone. She’s always the one to ask where her damn kids actually are. She’s always the one doing pretty much everything. (I will give Mr. Wheeler some credit for racing at the monster with a golf club rather than running off to leave Karen and Holly to fend for themselves.)

Courtesy of Netflix

Courtesy of Netflix

And, although they may have smaller roles in the show, the other mums in Stranger Things are just as powerful in their own ways. There’s Max’s mum, Susan (Jennifer Hargrove), a woman who finds herself married to an abusive husband and doing her best to keep him calm for the sake of her children. Later, after he leaves, we see just how much a struggle being a single mum is (and perhaps a reason why she married the guy in the first place). In season 4, Susan is living with Max in a trailer park, struggling to make ends meet and sinking into depression and addiction. Her one moment with Max, though, shows that she’s trying to keep fighting for her sake. Then there’s Lucas’s mum, Sue (Karen Ceesay), who is also shown balancing pressures from multiple directions in her domestic scenes. When her son is being questioned by the police, she winds up fighting his corner.

Face conflict today with a gracious heart. Conflicting relationships and patterns are only here to either help you shed something or make you stronger. A detached, outsider’s perspective might just be what you need today, Scorpio. At this point in time, you are not only holding space for opposites but also slowly building a life you can truly thrive in, Libra. You can clearly see now that things aren’t always black or white. You are beginning to love the greys that come with it. You are here to forge a path, not follow one. Leo, this is said with grace, not rebellion. That quiet strength you feel in your bones is the cue to keep moving forward. The place you have reached today, but never imagined you’d get to before, proves that the cosmos is watching and supporting you. The power struggle you feel trapped in time and again? Cancer, it is your cue that perhaps it’s time you accept that you are not for everyone. Let this be the sign to mind your own lane, stay on course and stop letting others’ projections distort your internal dialogue and self-worth.

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.

How much longer are you going to “think it over” or “sit on it”? Aries, this is your moment to dive into what you’ve been craving. Instead of allowing logic to overpower your every move, take a stand for what your heart has been saying all along. This loop has to come to an end and only you can bring it to one. Stop overcomplicating life when it is not needed. Because ultimately, the heart wants what it wants.

Cosmic tip: Say yes to change.

You are not there to simply ace one thing. You are here to grow personally, emotionally, physically and spiritually, sometimes through relationships, and sometimes through reflection and isolation. Taurus, a huge karmic cycle is over for you. Now that you are ready and waiting for newness in life, bid adieu to old ways of thinking, restrictive thoughts, ingrained patterns and even the way you approach money and life. You are worthy of the life you imagine. No compromises.

Cosmic tip: Serve the world by being you and let the cosmos serve you in return.

On the other side of this void lies freedom and aliveness. Gemini, you are being activated in ways you cannot fathom yet. Your boredom, resentment, and aloofness are not because of stagnation, but because your mind is moving faster than your reality. Use your overthinking superpower to not only ideate but to plan. Put an end to this seemingly endless cycle of uncertainity by pegging your thoughts and ideas down into tangible steps of action, one bit at a time.

Sunscreen isn’t only for heat waves and beach days. Reliable sunscreens for winter can protect your skin from the crisp air. UV rays stay steady all year long, which is why SPF deserves a spot in your daily routine, no matter the season.

It’s an essential step to keep your skin barrier protected when cold air and indoor heating start pulling moisture from your skin. It also keeps pigmentation, dark spots and fine lines settling in during the cooler months. Think of it as a small investment with a big payoff.

And because winter can make your skin feel drier and more reactive, choosing the right formula becomes even more important. Good sunscreens for winter should feel comfortable, sit smoothly under makeup and never make you look chalky or greasy. The ones we’ve rounded up check all these boxes. They’re hydrating, easy to wear and dependable; the kind of SPF you’ll reach for without thinking twice, even on the coldest mornings.

A cult-favourite, moisturising SPF that absorbs instantly and leaves no white cast. It feels soothing on the skin, which makes it great for winter dryness or irritation. The finish is natural and comfortable, so you don’t feel like you’re wearing anything.

Light, fresh and boosted with antioxidants. It hydrates just enough without feeling sticky. The texture blends in quickly and leaves your skin looking awake and healthy. Great if you want a sunscreen that has multiple benefits.

Fragrance-free, gentle and designed for sensitive skin. It doesn’t sting or irritate and sits comfortably even if your skin is usually reactive. The finish is clean and breathable.

A more nourishing option with antioxidants that support your skin through winter dryness. The texture is creamy but not greasy, making it perfect for mature or dry skin types. It keeps your skin nourished and protected throughout the day.

A silky formula that feels nice the moment it goes on. It blends in easily, evens out texture a bit and creates a smooth base if you wear makeup. It offers steady protection without the oily shine some SPFs leave behind. Great for anyone who likes a refined, skin-like finish.

Hydrating, soft and perfect for winter when your skin needs a little extra comfort. It adds moisture without feeling heavy, and has a boost of vitamin C. The finish is smooth and fresh, so it works well with both, makeup and bare skin.

A convenient stick that allows you to re-apply as often as you need to. It absorbs quickly, doesn’t feel greasy and sits well under makeup. If you like formulas that don’t overwhelm your skin, this one keeps things simple and effective.

This one’s great if you spend a lot of time outdoors or commute in the sun. The texture is light, so it doesn’t leave any tacky feeling behind. It holds up well through humidity, sweat or long days and gives your skin an even look. A solid pick if you want something dependable and versatile.

A dermatologist-approved option with long-lasting protection and an airy, light feel. The high protection formula is especially helpful on long days or when the sun feels harsh.

This creamy, rich formula leaves a sheer tint behind that evens out complexion while providing high protection. It’s extremely nourishing and rejuvenating, perfect for that dewy glow.

I spent two years trying not to look too closely at myself. I wasn’t living on classically inflammatory foods. On paper, my lifestyle looked balanced. I walked my 10k steps. I didn’t binge on weekends. Yet almost overnight during the lockdown, my body felt unfamiliar. My gut was unsettled. My usually predictable skin developed angry patches, flare-ups and a general sort of puffiness that made everything feel slightly swollen.

I thought the culprit had to be something dramatic. A night of cocktails. A food slip-up. Something obvious. Instead, every practitioner I spoke to circled back to the same boring phrase: low-grade inflammation. It took time, scans, blood tests and uncomfortable honesty to realise that what was happening to me was a more intense version of what many people live with without realising it.

You think you’re doing everything right, yet your body reacts as if you’re living on takeout. Dietitian Vinoshini Rengaraj, nutrition expert at Bodycraft Clinic, sees this pattern often. “What I notice first in clients isn’t dramatic symptoms. It’s the things they ignore,” she says. “Feeling unusually tired by afternoon, mild puffiness around the eyes, random sugar cravings, slower digestion or skin dullness.”

When I finally sat down with my nutritionist, she didn’t ask about cheat meals. She asked about normal days. We broke it down: the rushed breakfast that was a banana and a protein bar, the 4pm Americano, the late-night handfuls of peanuts because “I haven’t eaten properly all day”.

What experts wish you’d focus on instead

The two biggest shifts my nutritionist suggested sounded almost too simple. Rengaraj frames them as daily habits rather than rules.

Stay properly hydrated

Inflammation builds when things stagnate: circulation, digestion and lymph. Drinking water throughout the day sounds basic, but it supports your body’s own anti-inflammatory pathways in the background.

Add, before you subtract

“Add at least one naturally antioxidant-rich food to your meals every day,” says Rengaraj. “Colourful vegetables and fruits, herbs, spices, nuts and seeds all provide compounds that buffer inflammation.”

My own plan also involved stabilising blood sugar. Pairing carbs with protein and fat made a measurable difference: fruit with nuts instead of fruit alone, toast with an egg instead of a swipe of jam and avoiding the all-day drip of liquid sugar through juices and smoothies.

Sometimes it isn’t obvious ‘junk’ that causes trouble. It’s the foods you rely on without question. “Even nutrient-dense foods can trigger inflammatory responses depending on your gut health, genetic tendencies, stress levels or hormone balance,” says Rengaraj. Dairy for one person, particular grains or nuts for another, even specific fruits for someone with a sensitive gut. It’s less about labelling foods as bad and more about accepting that your body has preferences.

Switching to a Mediterranean-style eating pattern helped me. A 2014 study shows that this pattern, rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, legumes, olive oil and fish, can reduce inflammatory markers, like CRP (C-reactive protein: an “inflammation smoke alarm” made by your liver) and IL-6 (interleukin-6: a messenger chemical used by your immune system) over time.

Indo-Western fusion has become a go-to choice this season, with celebrities pairing corsets with lehengas and jackets with dhoti pants. Karisma Kapoor’s latest appearance on Indian Idol offered her own interpretation of the trend in a Manish Malhotra ensemble.

Styled by Esha Amin, the actor chose a dusty mauve sari with a satin finish. Its long pallu, hemmed with sparkly fringe, trailed behind her, adding a playful edge to the soft drape. The twist lay in its pairing: instead of a traditional blouse, Kapoor wore a blazer in the same shade, embellished with geometric sequin work. Its clean structure offered a sharp counterpoint to the sari’s fluid movement, all while keeping the set cohesive within a single-tone palette.

Her accessories remained minimal: small rhinestone earrings embedded with gemstones from Minerali and layered silver rings from Curio Cottage, adding a subtle glimmer without clashing with the sequins. Transparent pointed stilettos embellished with rhinestones completed the look.

The makeup was kept within the same mauve-toned palette: a brush of sparkly mauve eyeshadow, thick eyelashes and a dark mauve lip. The hair was pulled away from the face in a sleek half-up, half-down style with a soft side part.

From Vogue‘s Fashion Desk:

“Roll the sleeves up and add a chunky watch to give the look a touch of insouciance. Tie the hair up into a messy low bun, open up the jacket and swap the pumps for a pair of strappy high-heeled sandals. Now the code switches from evening party to city sleek,” says Vogue India fashion associate Manglien Gangte.

Also read:

Karisma Kapoor’s mirrorwork moment, Aneet Padda in metallic sequins, and Kalki Koechlin’s mehendi-lime sari stood out in this week’s best fashion looks

Let Karisma Kapoor’s blazer and dhoti set show you how to wear black but still look cool

Madhuri Dixit Nene’s ivory Gazal Gupta drape skirt + blazer set took 450 hours to finish

At the end of the Second World War, when the Nazis invaded the Soviet Union, a young girl bravely fought the intruders and died in the process. Her name was Volga, and she soon became a symbol of resistance. Inspired by her courage, PV Subba Rao, a sarpanch in the Edlapadu village of Andhra Pradesh, named his eldest daughter Volga.

When she died in an accident at the age of 16, his youngest daughter, Popuri Lalitha Kumari, adopted Volga as her pen name. “It was a tribute to my sister and also suited my views, as I was a member of the Students’ Federation of India,” says the author. “Right from the beginning, the personal was political for me.”

Over five decades, Volga has written fiction, poetry, translations, film scripts, essays and co-founded the Asmita Resource Centre for Women. More than any single work, her legacy lies in foregrounding feminist consciousness in Telugu writing, long before the term found mainstream currency.

As a teenager, Volga wrote romantic poems about nature, but two events changed her trajectory: her sister’s death and the Visakhapatnam Steel agitation of 1966, where students protested Indira Gandhi’s reversal of a promised steel plant. The innocence of her early poems soon gave way to the turbulence of the Naxalbari years, pulling her toward social issues. “Those were the early days of capitalism and structural exploitation of the marginalised,” Volga says. “These issues changed the way I wrote.”

Volga with her partner Kutumba Rao.

She soon joined the Revolutionary Writers’ Association, which boasts an alumni of major literary figures like her partner Kutumba Rao, Raavi Sastry, Vaddeboyina Srinivas, Rivera and Kaseem, though she left it in the mid-’70s. Afterwards, she turned towards a different line of inquiry: one that placed women at the centre. This shift crystallised in her fiction. Sahaja (1985) explored four women reviewing their lives after marriage, while Svecha (1987) juxtaposed ‘gruhinitvam’ (wifehood and motherhood) against citizenship. “Both novels explore the limits society imposes on women. Unless they have agency over marriage and childbirth, women cannot take control over their lives,” Volga says.

Svecha, translated and reprinted to this day, marked a seismic shift in Telugu literature as women began recognising patriarchy in intimate ways. Its protagonist, Aruna—whose loving marriage is tested when she steps out to work for a human rights group—embodied the tension between private domesticity and public citizenship. While criticised as an attempt to weaken the institution of marriage, the book struck a chord with middle-class women who identified a voice born out of their collective trauma.

Fashion in 2025 is no longer confined to borders. It is a global exchange of creativity, craftsmanship, cultural expression, and sustainability. Among all the international influences, Indian clothing has emerged as one of the most powerful forces shaping global fashion trends this year. From runways in New York, Paris, and Milan to everyday streetwear in London, Dubai, and Singapore, Indian silhouettes, fabrics, and embellishments are enjoying a massive spotlight.

What makes this rise even more remarkable is the shift in consumer mindset. Today’s fashion lovers want clothing that tells a story—something rooted in heritage, handmade artistry, and textile richness. Indian garments deliver exactly that. Whether it’s the elegance of a saree, the comfort of a kurta set, or the regal charm of sherwanis and lehengas, Indian wear resonates with a global audience seeking individuality and authenticity. As we step into 2025, Indian Clothes isn’t just participating globally—it’s leading it.

A Global Shift Toward Cultural Fashion

In recent years, there has been a conscious shift toward fashion pieces that have cultural significance. People are actively seeking apparel that feels meaningful and rooted in tradition. Indian clothing—with its vibrant history, diverse crafts, and timeless silhouettes—fits perfectly into this global demand.

Designers across Europe and North America are incorporating Indian elements like mirror work, zardozi embroidery, bandhani patterns, and block prints into their collections. These handcrafted details offer a refreshing alternative to mass-produced, factory-made fast fashion.

Sustainability First: India’s Handcrafted Textiles Shine

2025 marks a pivotal moment for sustainable fashion. As the world rejects synthetic fabrics and fast-fashion culture, Indian textiles have become the top choice for eco-conscious buyers.

Key reasons for the popularity of Indian Mens Clothing include:

• Natural fabrics like cotton, silk, khadi, and linen
• Handloom weaving, which promotes slow fashion
• Environmentally friendly vegetable dyes
• Long-lasting craftsmanship

Indian artisans have mastered sustainable production for centuries, and now global luxury brands are collaborating with them to create ethical, high-end clothing.

Celebrities and Hollywood Are Fueling the Trend

From Beyoncé to Zendaya, global celebrities have played a major role in the rise of Indian fashion. In 2025, movies, music videos, and red carpets have showcased Indian outfits like:

• Embroidered lehengas
• Sarees with contemporary drapes
• Indo-Western fusion gowns
• Men’s bandhgalas and sherwanis

These global appearances have made Indian clothing instantly aspirational and stylish. When a major celebrity chooses a designer lehenga for a premiere or awards show, millions take notice.

Versatility: Indian Clothing Fits Every Occasion

One of the biggest reasons Indian Clothes are trending globally is their versatility. Whether someone is attending a wedding, a festival, a work event, or even a casual outing, Indian clothing offers an endless variety of options.

• Sarees work for formal galas or festive evenings
• Kurtas fit casual wear, office wear, and travel wardrobes
• Lehengas and anarkalis make perfect event or party outfits
• Sherwanis and bandhgalas bring sophistication to men’s fashion

This adaptability makes Indian fashion appealing to a global audience that wants clothing suitable for multiple lifestyles and cultures.

Indian Designers Are Dominating Global Runways

Indian designers have made history on the world stage in 2025. From Paris Couture Week to Milan Fashion Week, Indian brands are redefining luxury with:

• Intricate embroidery
• Modern draping techniques
• Fusion silhouettes
• Rich textiles and artisanal craftsmanship

Their collections prove that Indian clothing can be both rooted in heritage and perfectly aligned with modern fashion sensibilities. This blend of old and new is exactly what international buyers are looking for.

Fusion Fashion Has Gone Mainstream

Fusion fashion—mixing Indian silhouettes with Western styles—has exploded in popularity. In 2025, some global trends include:

• Saree gowns
• Indo-Western jackets
• Kurta-style dresses
• Palazzo pants with structured tops
• Ethnic prints used in streetwear

This merging of cultures appeals to international youth who want bold, statement-making styles. It also helps Indian clothing fit effortlessly into global wardrobes.

Comfort Meets Elegance: The Perfect Combination

The post-pandemic era prioritised comfort, and Indian Outfits delivers it effortlessly. Natural fabrics, breathable weaves, and relaxed silhouettes make Indian wear comfortable across different climates and cultures.

While Western fashion often sacrifices comfort for structure, Indian outfits strike a perfect balance—offering elegance without compromising on ease of movement.

The Global Desi Diaspora Is Influencing Fashion Choices

The expanding Indian diaspora has increased the visibility of Indian fashion worldwide. Countries like Canada, the US, Australia, the UK, and the UAE have thriving communities that showcase Indian clothing during festivals, weddings, and cultural events. This has led non-Indians to adopt and appreciate the beauty of traditional and fusion Indian wear.

Digital Shopping Makes Indian Fashion Accessible Worldwide

With global e-commerce, Indian clothing is now easily available across continents. International shoppers can browse collections, choose sizes, and have premium ethnic wear delivered to their doorstep.

High-quality photography, size guides, and AR try-on tools have made online ethnic fashion shopping more seamless than ever.

Indian Menswear Is Undergoing a Revolution

It’s not just women’s clothing—Indian menswear is also dominating global trends in 2025. The demand for asymmetric kurtas, embroidered sherwanis, Nehru jackets, and Indo-Western tuxedos has surged. These outfits offer sophistication, personality, and cultural richness that many Western suits lack.

End Notes

Indian Clothes are winning global fashion trends in 2025 because they represent a beautiful combination of craftsmanship, heritage, sustainability, and modern design. As the world embraces cultural diversity and meaningful fashion, Indian outfits stand out as the perfect blend of elegance and identity.

If you’re inspired to explore the finest Indian ethnic wear—from sarees and lehengas to sherwanis, kurtas, and Indo-Western outfits—check out the exclusive collections available at Nihal Fashions. Our premium designs, authentic craftsmanship, and worldwide shipping make us a top destination for anyone who wants to embrace Indian fashion in its most stylish form.