Posts in category: Life Style

It’s easy to dismiss vanilla as basic, saccharine, the olfactory equivalent of a basic formulaic rom-com. But vanilla isn’t a one-note wonder. It’s a mood, a memory, a feeling. And when captured the right way in the best vanilla perfumes, it’s something you can’t get enough of, even when hidden in the most unexpected, intriguing layers.

Forget the cheap, syrupy versions that bombarded you in the school halls. True vanilla—crafted with precision, expertly blended into a fragrance—can be so much more. It’s creamy and smooth like a whisper, sharp and spicy like a secret. It can be dusty and powdery, inviting you into an antique apothecary shop or dark and smoky, like embers from a far-off fire. Vanilla is complex, versatile, and, dare we say, mysterious when done right.

Here’s our breakdown of the best vanilla perfumes that will completely change your perception of this beloved note—each offering a unique, intriguing interpretation of vanilla that goes far beyond sweet and simple.

Gourmand vanilla

These perfumes embrace the purest form of vanilla, making it a rich, indulgent treat for the senses. Think creamy, dessert-like scents that evoke the warmth of freshly baked cookies or the smoothness of vanilla-infused desserts. It’s decadent, comforting, and the definition of indulgence.

Maison Mataha Brownie Pop

This is a decadent, ultra-rich vanilla that leans deep into its namesake—imagine warm, fudgy brownies fresh out of the oven. The caramel adds buttery depth, while the tonka bean enhances the smooth, creamy vanilla base, making it a true dessert-lover’s dream.

Kayali Vanilla 28

A crowd favourite, Vanilla 28 is a sweet, sensual take on vanilla that doesn’t hold back. The rich, deep vanilla is paired with the warm sweetness of brown sugar and tonka bean, while amber adds a luxurious depth. The result is a fragrance that’s undeniably sweet but with enough complexity to avoid feeling one-dimensional.

Al Rehab Choco Musk (Oil)

A true gourmand fragrance, Choco Musk blends the richness of vanilla with irresistible sweetness. If Parle G biscuits could be bottled, this is what you would get. The slight musky base does keep it grounded. Sweet but balanced, this one is a little less about sugar rush and more about soft, velvety warmth.

Smoky vanilla

These fragrances contrast vanilla’s sweetness with woody, smoky, or resinous elements, creating a sultry and mysterious effect.

Tom Ford Tobacco Vanille

A deep, bold take on vanilla, this fragrance pairs rich tobacco with warm vanilla and hints of dried fruit and spice. It’s sophisticated, intense, and perfect for cooler weather.

Maison Margiela Replica By the Fireplace

By the Fireplace is a smoky, slightly sweet vanilla with the warmth of burning wood and roasted chestnuts. It’s cosy and comforting, like sitting by a crackling fire on a cold evening.

BDK Parfums Velvet Tonka

This scent gives vanilla a smoky, nutty twist, blending it with almond and tobacco for a creamy yet slightly rugged feel. The orange blossom keeps it from being too heavy, making it a well-balanced, smoky vanilla.

Floral vanilla

When vanilla meets flowers, it creates a fragrance that’s soft, airy, and romantic. These perfumes feel like spring—a bouquet of delicate petals and sweet vanilla that lingers in the air.

Casamorati Dama Bianca by Xerjoff

Dama Bianca is a powdery, floral vanilla with an ethereal quality, soft yet compelling. The opening is bright with kumquat and lime, lending a delicate citrus sparkle before melting into a powdery bouquet of iris, violet, and jasmine. The vanilla in this fragrance is smooth and creamy, wrapped in a cocoon of white musk and sandalwood. It’s refined and weightless, like a silk dress catching the light—effortlessly elegant, never overpowering.

Kilian Love Don’t be Shy

This fragrance is famous for its dreamy, sweet vanilla base. Love Don’t Be Shy is a delicious blend of marshmallow and caramel with the warmth of vanilla, giving it a comforting, almost edible sweetness. The floral notes of neroli and orange blossom keep it fresh and light, creating a soft, romantic feel that’s impossible to resist.

Yves Saint Laurent Libre Intense

Libre Intense takes the original Libre’s floral structure and drenches it in richness. The signature lavender and orange blossom remain, but this version deepens the sensuality with creamy vanilla and smoky tonka bean. The jasmine and orchid add a velvety floral opulence, making it feel bolder and more enveloping. The vanilla isn’t sugary or light—it’s warm, golden, and infused with an almost ambery depth.

Fruity vanilla

For those who love a playful twist on vanilla, these fragrances blend the warmth of vanilla with juicy, vibrant fruit notes, creating scents that feel lively, luscious, and effortlessly addictive. They strike a balance between gourmand sweetness and fresh, fruity brightness, making them perfect for anyone who wants their vanilla with a touch of fun.

Mugler Alien Goddess

A tropical vanilla that feels like golden sunlight on warm skin. The creamy coconut immediately transports you to an island escape, blending seamlessly with vanilla’s smooth sweetness. Jasmine and heliotrope soften the edges, adding a dreamy, powdery quality that makes the fragrance feel ethereal rather than overly gourmand. The bergamot brightens the opening with a touch of citrus sparkle, preventing it from feeling too heavy.

Jimmy Choo I Want Choo

An effervescent, juicy vanilla that feels flirtatious and full of energy. The peach in the opening is ripe and mouthwatering, giving the fragrance a sparkling, fruity sweetness that instantly lifts the mood. As it dries down, the vanilla and benzoin create a smooth, amber-like warmth, while jasmine adds a soft floral dimension that keeps it from veering into syrupy territory.

Burberry Her Elixir

A decadent, berry-soaked vanilla that feels plush, creamy, and irresistibly smooth. The opening is all about the juiciness of ripe strawberries and blackberries, lending a tart yet sweet quality that keeps things vibrant. As it settles, the vanilla takes center stage, wrapping the fruitiness in a velvety, almost whipped-cream-like texture. The amber and sandalwood in the base add a rich, musky depth, giving the fragrance a warm, cosy finish.

Milky vanilla

For those who love their vanilla soft, creamy, and almost tactile, these perfumes wrap you in the scent of warm milk, delicate sweetness, and a plush, velvety finish.

Giardini Di Toscana Bianco Latte

A gourmand lover’s dream, Bianco Latte is a lush, milky vanilla infused with caramel, tonka bean, and soft woods. It smells like vanilla gelato melting into warm milk—rich, comforting, and effortlessly decadent.

Commodity Milk Expressive

A creamy, skin-hugging vanilla with airy marshmallow and a subtle splash of musk. It’s the perfect balance between sweet and sheer, making it an ideal everyday vanilla that lingers without overwhelming.

Liquides Imaginaires Blanche Bête

Ethereal and slightly mysterious, Blanche Bête pairs milky vanilla with white florals and soft musk. The result? A dreamy, weightless vanilla that smells like fresh snow, fluffy clouds, and a touch of mythical enchantment.

Boozy vanilla

For those who prefer their vanilla served neat, on the rocks, or blended into an old-fashioned, these fragrances are rich, indulgent, and laced with notes of rum, cognac or whiskey.

Lorenzo Pazzaglia Van Py Rhum

The opening features a luxurious blend of bourbon, Madagascar, and Tahitian vanillas, creating a creamy and indulgent introduction. This sweetness is enhanced by a generous splash of rum and the warm, nutty nuances of tonka bean. As the scent develops, caramel and white flowers add depth and a hint of floral elegance. The base is grounded by earthy Indonesian patchouli leaf, smoky black vanilla husk, and a touch of agarwood (oud), providing a dark and sensual finish.

Kilian Angels’ Share

Angels’ Share is a decadent fragrance inspired by the heritage of cognac-making. It opens with a distinctive cognac accord, rich and inviting, immediately setting a warm and luxurious tone. The heart introduces a blend of cinnamon and tonka bean, adding spicy sweetness that complements the boozy opening. As the fragrance settles, the base reveals notes of oak and praline, evoking the aged barrels used in cognac production, while vanilla and sandalwood provide a creamy and smooth finish.

Maison Margiela Replica Jazz Club

Jazz Club captures the essence of a cosy, dimly lit jazz lounge filled with the rich aromas of aged liquor and cigars. The fragrance opens with a subtle hint of pink pepper and citrusy primofiore lemon, leading into a heart dominated by rum absolute and clary sage, which create a warm and slightly herbal boozy core. The base is characterised by tobacco leaf absolute and vanilla bean, adding a smoky sweetness, while styrax resin contributes a balsamic depth.

Every few weeks, it seems like there’s a new relationship-related term that everyone’s using, whether it’s the now-familiar “ghosting” or “breadcrumbing” or the “all or nothing” dating trend. The concept of limerence—a.k.a. obsessive longing—is well-worn. Even though it’s currently enjoying a rise in popularity, there are endless examples of weepy book and movie protagonists investing way too much in their would-be significant other, from Romeo Montague and Goethe’s sorrowful young Werther to Raanjhanaa’s (2013) fanatical Kundan.

Below, find everything you need to know about limerence, including its full definition and how it can affect relationships:

What is the psychological definition of limerence?

According to Psychology Today, limerence is “a state of involuntary obsession with another person.” While the state of falling in love or lust is often predicated on those feelings being reciprocated by a partner, limerence is specifically based on uncertainty about the object of your affections (a.k.a. your “limerent object”) returning your ardour.

Where does the term limerence come from?

Psychologist Dorothy Tennov, who coined the term in her 1979 book Love and Limerence, described her experience of the concept as follows: “I don’t direct this thing, this attraction, to Emily. It directs me. I try desperately to argue with it, to limit its influence, to channel it (into sex, for example), to deny it, to enjoy it and, yes, dammit, to make her respond! Even though I know that Emily and I have absolutely no chance of making a life together, the thought of her is an obsession. I am in the position of passionately wanting someone I don’t want at all and could find no use for if I had her.”

Tennov has noted that limerence can affect anyone, regardless of gender, age, ethnicity, background or any other trait.

What are the key hallmarks of limerence?

As a state of mind, limerence can be characterised by irrational or intrusive thoughts, emotional dependency, uncertainty and fear of rejection, and, perhaps most tellingly, idealisation. In other words, limerence means being so obsessed with the image of your limerent object that, ironically, you might really not be focusing on them or getting to know them at all. In this way, limerence can preclude genuine connection, as the person experiencing limerence might be so focused on the intensity of their own feelings that they’re not really present or able to establish or deepen interpersonal bonds.

What are the three stages of limerence?

The three stages of limerence are infatuation, crystallisation and deterioration; infatuation refers to the period of falling for a limerent object, crystallisation refers to the process of idealising said limerent object or, as it’s often phrased, “putting them on a pedestal,” and deterioration refers to the inevitable emotional crash that comes with the loss of a limerent object as a potential solution to all of one’s problems.

What’s so wrong with limerence, after all?

At first glance, limerence might sound like a good thing; after all, it’s all about the romantic notion of falling for someone headfirst, right? However, according to the Attachment Project, problems can occur when “the limerent person struggles to think about anything else but their ‘crush’ and neglects their social life, work and other responsibilities as a result.” I guess what we’re saying is less ‘every move you make, I’ll be watching you’, more ‘wise men say, only fools rush in.’

Art silk sarees are widely recognized for his or her opulent, elegant appearance, just like that of natural silk sarees. But that allows you to create lovely Art silk sarees, additionally known as Artificial silk sarees, craftspeople take a minor twist and replace artificial fibers like polyester and rayon.

With their many designs and colorful shades, these sarees have captured the hearts of Indian women of all ages by offering them a sense of delicacy and elegance. Naturally, the silk material offers the saree an extraordinary allure. Art silk is fairly priced and has an advanced luster that is similar to that of herbal silk.

Although they may seem captivating, the amount of effort and commitment the craftspeople put into creating them is far greater than anyone may realize. In order to capture the spirit of India’s rich creative and cultural legacy in the art saree, traditional textiles are given careful consideration.

A fabric art silk saree, renowned for its extravagant design, shine, and elegant appeal, is a wardrobe essential for any fashion enthusiast. Art Silk sarees offer a captivating symphony of colors, patterns, and motifs, and each Indian area adds an own touch of adornment to the saree fabric.

The most striking ethnic themes and handiwork from Tamil Nadu’s creative culture can be seen on the Kanjeevaram saree. The difficult handwoven Zari embroidery with steel threads alongside the rims highlights the saree`s colour and gleams via the pleasant silk, giving it a luxurious appearance. However, in comparison to natural silk sarees, Kanjeevaram artwork silk sarees are appreciably lighter and much less expensive.

Rich brocade designs adorning the artificial silk fabric are the hallmark of this type of Art Silk saree. The saree`s grandeur is greater via means of present day motifs and designs that draw ideas from Mughal and Persian art. These sarees are best for sporting celebrations and weddings, amongst different crucial events.

Baluchari sarees keep a completely unique vicinity in India`s fabric history. They are well-known for his or her elaborately woven designs that use the Jacquard approach and function scenes from the Vedic Epics just like the Ramayana and Mahabharata. They are made with the aid of craftspeople from the West Bengal state.

A Warli Art saree is the primary component that springs to thoughts while thinking about a saree that is wealthy in subculture and captures the spirit and customs of a community. The Warli human beings of Maharashtra, India, are the originators of Warli innovative abilities. In particular, the ladies of this tribe depict pics from their tribal life, nature, and ceremonies. The designs are created using geometric shapes along with squares, rectangles, triangles, and circles. A monochrome colour scheme with black and brown designs is typical of proper Warli Art Silk sarees; they’re understated but sophisticated.

An Art Silk saree has several qualities that make it appealing for women to wear, even if it mimics a pure silk saree and does not completely violate its attributes.

After processing, the fibers of artificial silk give the skin a texture and feel that is almost identical to that of pure silk cloth. However, women typically prefer to drape an Art Silk saree for a comfortable fit because of its light weight.

The delicate natural silk strands need to be handled and cared for carefully. However, an art silk saree is simple to care for; it may be hand cleaned at home and kept in a suitable location to preserve its beauty.

The exorbitant cost of genuine silk sarees deters many ladies from purchasing them. Art Silk sarees are relevant in this context. The Art Silk saree within reason priced even as keeping an super and sleek appearance, and it has almost the equal visible attraction because the natural silk saree.

Genuine pure silk sarees are frequently hard to get in physical or virtual stores, however Art Silk sarees are widely accessible and come in a wide range of beautiful styles.

It is surely withinside the quality interests of all women who experience showcasing their femininity and charm to drape a beautiful saree, which offers them an expensive appearance.

To gain the precise appearance at the same time as draped in an Art Silk saree, use those tips & tricks:

• Wear a pair of traditional oxidized or stone earrings with your favorite Art silk saree to lend a touch of elegance to your entire ensemble.

• To define the form of your eyes, use Kajal to create smokey eyes.

• Put on some high-end heels and style your hair into a sleek bun.

• The key to a magnificent drape is to keep the entire appearance simple and fresh by avoiding letting the jewelry and makeup overshadow your gorgeous saree.

Read more – Exploring the Different Types of Silk Sarees for Your Collection

Every Art Silk saree is a display of India’s rich cultural legacy, and it is a part of exquisite family heirlooms that are handed down through the ages as a sign of love and devotion. Women of all ages find it to be a popular option. Art silk sarees are the most aesthetically pleasing and give the wearer a more flowing drape than pure silk sarees. Art Silk sarees, which are handcrafted by industrious weavers from all across India, radiate tradition and timeless appeal that is always in trend.

If skincare had a holy grail, rose water would be in the running. A staple in vanities and apothecaries for centuries, it’s the rare beauty ingredient that’s both nostalgia-laced and clinically relevant. More than just a fragrant mist, it’s packed with skin-loving benefits—soothing inflammation, balancing hydration, and adding that elusive glow. It’s the kind of product that feels like a little luxury but delivers on science-backed results. But what makes it so effective, and how do you separate the good from the gimmicky? Ahead, experts break down the real benefits of rose water and how to use it.

What is rose water?

Originating from Iran, rose water is a liquid created by steaming rose petals in water, explains Marisa Garshick, MD, board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology. Garshick goes on to explain that making rose water involves extracting essential compounds from rose petals that will help soothe and hydrate the skin while also providing antioxidant properties. It’s a versatile ingredient, adds lead esthetician at Casa Cipriani New York Spa, Samantha Susca, and you can find it in many beauty products, culinary dishes, drinks, and baked goods.

The benefits of rose water

Rose water is great for the skin for many reasons. The experts list the following as its main benefits:

Boosts hydration

Perfect for dry skin, one of rose water’s main benefits is its hydrating properties. Susca says that it is a natural humectant and pH balancer for the skin. Sonia Badreshia-Bansal, MD, board-certified dermatologist at Elite MD, agrees. She adds that its cooling, hydrating effect can also help the skin feel refreshed.

Prevents acne

Celebrity esthetician Ian Michael Crumm says that rose water helps control excess oil and prevent those pesky breakouts. It also has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that can reduce redness and prevent bacterial growth.

Reduces inflammation

Speaking of anti-inflammatory properties, Crumm says that rose water is especially great at soothing irritation and redness that you might experience from any sensitivity.

Soothes irritation

Badreshia-Bansal says that rose water is a great go-to for sensitive skin. Thanks to its soothing properties, it will calm skin irritation and is particularly helpful for skin conditions like eczema and rosacea.

Brightens skin

“Rose water can help brighten a dull complexion due to its hydrating properties and ability to refresh and tone the skin,” says Crumm, explaining that the antioxidants also help to rejuvenate skin cells. “Hydrated skin equals glowing skin,” adds Susca. “Rose water is a phenomenal addition to any routine, focused on increasing hydration, elasticity, and—ultimately—glow.”

Fights and prevents bacterial growth

As mentioned previously, rose water is known to have mild antibacterial properties. Badreshia-Bansal explains that this can help prevent acne. Rose water also contains antiseptic qualities to prevent bacteria from growing in minor cuts, burns, and scars.

Protects skin from environmental aggressors

Rose water is packed with antioxidants that protect the skin from free radicals. As a result, Badreshia-Bansal says it has antiaging benefits, and you might see a reduced appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Useful in aromatherapy

Bansal points to rose water’s aroma, which she says has a soothing and calming effect on the mind. This helps reduce stress and indirectly calms stress-related flare-ups. “The scent can uplift the mood,” adds Crumm.

The downsides

All experts agree that rose water is generally safe for all skin types, but there may be some negative side effects. As with any ingredient, there are a few things to keep note of. “Some people may experience allergic reactions, such as redness or irritation,” Garshick warns. “Those with severe allergies to roses should avoid using rose water.”

“If a rose water is labelled as or contains rose hydrosol in its ingredients, it may still contain trace amounts of essential oils, which, even in trace amounts, can be reactive to some skins—especially those that are acne prone,” adds Susca.

So, if you’re introducing rose water into your routine, do a patch test to see if you experience any sensitivity before applying it to a large area of your skin. This will help determine if rose water is safe for you to use.

How to use rose water

Rose water is found in many skin-care products, from lotions to rose oils, and can be easily integrated into most skin-care routines. Garshick says to start with a gentle cleanser to remove dirt, debris, and makeup before applying a rose water toner to balance the skin’s pH levels and add hydration. Then, you can follow up with your serum and eye cream of choice before locking it all in with a moisturiser. Should you need a midday refresh, she suggests a rose water facial mist, such as the Herbivore Rose Hibiscus Hydrating Face Mist or the Mario Badescu Facial Spray with Aloe, Herbs, and Rose Water.

In these situations, emotional distance is likely at play, experts say. Whereas if someone’s simply not looking to date you, you’ll know it’s a lack of interest because there’s zero effort being put into the relationship, even with shallow stuff. Speaking of which…

2. They keep conversations surface-level

You’re probably not going to dive into your complex childhood trauma or deepest insecurities with just anyone. But with your partner? You should be comfortable sharing those parts of yourself (eventually).

With an emotionally closed-off partner, however, they may be reluctant to talk about their upbringing, for instance, past breakups, or relationship insecurities, instead fixating on lighter subjects. (Think: TV shows, sports and work—things that don’t require you to be so raw and exposed.)

3. They withdraw during your moments of vulnerability

How a person responds when you discuss deeper topics can tell you a lot about their emotional availability…or lack thereof. To be fair, “developing intimacy within relationships takes time,” Lurie points out. “It’s not uncommon to be uncomfortable at first.” But as you get to know each other better, you should ideally notice early healthy signs of engagement and support, like them actively listening. You may even get a response that signals empathy, like, “I really appreciate you sharing that with me. Actually, I know how you feel because….”

On the flip side, signs of emotional unavailability might look like a partner who changes the subject when things get too “serious.” According to Lurie, they may revert back to flirting and jokes to dodge those topics. Or, when you do gently nudge them to open up, they might even get defensive (“Why are you trying to make this about me? This is your issue, not mine”).

4. They’re reluctant to “define” the relationship—or acknowledge long-term potential

Their actions might resemble those of a committed partner, spending tons of time together, meeting your friends, doing all the things any couple would. But the moment the conversation shifts to “What are we?” (whether it’s hard-launching on social media or a casual mention of the future), they panic.

Even if these next steps don’t seem like a drastic transition to you, the sheer concept of rigid labels can feel like a pressure point to others—one that comes with more expectations, responsibility and a level of intimacy that can be intimidating for some. And, to be fair, both experts agree there are valid reasons one might hesitate: Maybe they need more time to process a messy breakup, or their personal life at the moment is too chaotic to take on anything serious.

Have you fallen for boho style all over again, thanks to the recent efforts of Chemena Kamali, Sienna Miller and Daisy Edgar-Jones? Perhaps you saw Miller’s delicate white lace-edged blouse, high-waisted denim flares and a pair of wedges for the Met Gala after-party. Even committed LBD fan Zoë Kravitz has had her head turned by ruffles in recent weeks.

Evidence of this new mood is everywhere you look: for one thing, the sensible clog is fast becoming this season’s status shoe. The swiftest way into the trend that’s set to dominate spring 2025 is via a boho blouse. Take a leaf out of Sienna’s book and combine a romantic whisper of sheer lace with blue denim, choose a blouse with floaty sleeves for a touch of drama like Edgar-Jones, or lean even further into the ’70s feel by adding a nostalgic blouse to a pair of wide-legged pants in chocolate brown.

Below, six photos of the street-style set to inspire you to add a little retro romance to your spring wardrobe via a boho blouse.

Boho lace blouse + tailored skinny trousers

Lace blouses with a boho aesthetic have already secured their victory in the city in Spring-Summer 2025.

Christian Vierig / Getty Images

Sheer blouse + brown flared pants

The fashion savvy ones choose designs with a vintage feel that add a unique touch to the look.

Raimonda Kulikauskiene / Getty Images

Pussy bow detail + flares

Look like a disco queen with chic button down blouses and retro pants to match.

Daniel Zuchnik / Getty Images

Ruffled deep-V blouse + blue denim

The hottest blouses for Spring-Summer are those with lace and in neutral tones that go with everything.

Getty Images

Scarf neckline + flares

Look minimalist and chic with bow blouses in neutral tones and retro jeans on trend for Spring-Summer 2025.

Christian Vierig / Getty Images

White on white

Monochrome outfits will look more attractive with white lace blouses and matching jeans.

Raimonda Kulikauskiene / Getty Images

March concluded with Lakmé Fashion Week, which is now in its 25th year. Every season, LFW showcases some of the most exciting names in fashion while also drawing an impressive lineup of celebrity showstoppers. Turning heads in corsets and mixed metals, the runway was packed with the who’s who of the industry. Here’s a quick recap.

Ananya Panday opened Anamika Khanna’s AK|OK show

Ananya Panday, who is also Lakmé’s brand ambassador, opened fashion week at Anamika Khanna’s show. She walked the runway in a captivating silver bralette, blue trousers, and silver jewellery. The designer incorporated the silver piece as a drape, complementing it with detailed cutwork and embellishments on the satin trousers. A stack of silver bangles and kadas added drama to the ensemble. Dewy, defined cheeks and blue eyeliner completed her look.

Karisma Kapoor closed the Satya Paul show

A luxurious liquid shadow that delivers a luminous, satin finish. The kind of refined shimmer that looks expensive—but in that ideal understated but eye-catching way.

rem beauty Lustrous Liquid Eyeshadow

They have matte colours as well but their glitter eyeshadows deliver a celestial-level glow to your lids. The formula is ultra lightweight and glides on effortlessly, depositing a high-shine metallic finish that feels barely there yet lasts for hours.

Rare Beauty All Of The Above Weightless Eyeshadow Stick

A soft-matte shadow stick. Just swipe, a quick buff and no one needs to know you pulled this off during your commute.

NARS Total Seduction Eyeshadow Stick

A silky, high-impact shadow that glides on smoothly and lasts all day. Think of it as the red-brown shade Strip Down as the little black dress of eyeshadows–always appropriate, effortlessly flattering and endlessly wearable.

Dior Mono Couleur Couture High-Color Eyeshadow

A finely milled, high-pigment powder infused with skincare ingredients like aloe vera for a smooth, luxurious finish. The kind of eyeshadow that makes even a single wash of colour feel intentional.

Kay Beauty Eyeshadow Sticks

A blendable, long-wearing formula that delivers smooth, even pigment. For the days when you need your makeup to match your schedule: quick, efficient, and entirely unbothered.

Shiseido Pop PowderGel Eye Shadow

A hybrid formula that blends like a cream but sets like a powder for all-day wear. If eyeshadows could be overachievers, this would be the valedictorian.

Pixi Endless Shade Stick

A crease-resistant, shimmer-infused crayon that glides on without dragging. It’s the kind of product that makes you wonder why you ever bothered with blending brushes in the first place.

Kiko Milano Water Eyeshadow

A unique wet-to-dry formula that delivers a radiant, almost metallic sheen. Like jewellery for your lids—polished, luminous, and designed to catch the light.

Urban Decay Moondust Eyeshadows

A viral internet favourite, this is an ultra-fine, high-shimmer formula that gives lids a soft-focus sparkle. Because sometimes, the difference between ‘effortless’ and ‘elevated’ is just the right amount of glitter.

ColourPop Super Shock Shadows

I find getting enough protein daily challenging. “Protein is essential for building and repairing every cell in your body,” says Ayla Barmmer, MS, RDN, LDN and founder of FullWell Fertility. “It supports the creation of enzymes and hormones, boosts immune function, and helps transport nutrients.”

I know I’m not alone: Whether or not they know it, a lot of woman are dealing with a protein deficiency. “Inadequate protein intake can have widespread negative effects on the body, impacting multiple systems and functions,” says Barmmer, listing off a host of symptoms I’m simply not interested in experiencing, including feeling weak, reduced strength, brittle hair and nails, reduced ability to fight infection or illness, and mental fog.

When it comes to asking “how much protein do I need?” the nutritionist also shares some simple rules: If you’re a sedentary adult, aim for one gram for every kilogram you weigh; if you’re an active adult, 1.6 to 2.2 grams per every kilogram you weigh; and if you’re over the age of 65, 1.2 to 1.5 grams per every kilogram you weigh. So if you weigh 165 pounds, that translates to 72.5 kilograms, so you’re aiming for around 145 grams of protein a day.

Phew, this is even more intimidating than I thought. In an attempt to step up my protein game, Barmmer compiled a list of foods for me to eat as much as possible—and I’m sharing it with you. 2025 is the year of protein.

Fish

When it comes to eating fish, not all have the same amount of protein. There are more than 36 varieties that the FDA declares as healthy options, and the four that are the highest when it comes to protein are tuna (24.4 grams of protein in a 100-gram serving for ahi tuna), salmon (25.92 grams in a 100-gram serving), cod (19.36 grams of protein in a 100-gram serving), and mackerel (25.45 grams of protein in a 100-gram serving).

Hemp Seeds

These seeds may be tiny, but they are surprisingly mighty. Two tablespoons of hemp seeds have just as much protein as two egg whites—along with all nine essential amino acids (a rarity), omega-3, and omega-6.

Eggs

“Eggs should absolutely be part of your weekly rotation, but you want to eat the egg with the yolk,” says Barmmer. In a large egg, you’ll get about six grams of available protein. “Eggs also have a good dose of brain- and liver- and gall-bladder-supporting choline.”

Nut butter

“While they can and should be part of your rotation, don’t expect things like peanut butter to be a significant protein source in your diet,” levels Barmmer. “They will give a small boost but it simply requires too much in terms of volume and calories to reach your protein needs with them. For example, it would take 679 calories worth of peanut butter (7 tablespoons) to equal 175 calories of a three-ounce serving of lean beef.

Quinoa

If you’re gluten-free, plant-based, or on a whole foods diet, quinoa should be a big part of your diet. “This grain-like seed is one of the few complete plant protein sources providing about eight grams per cup,” says Barmmer. “It’s rich in magnesium and fiber as well.”

Greek yoghurt

Thicker and creamier than regular yoghurt because it’s fermented for longer, Greek yoghurt’s health benefits far surpass the OG variety. “From a nutrition perspective, Greek yoghurt typically has significantly more protein—often two times as much!—and fewer carbohydrates than regular yoghurt,” says clinical nutritionist Heather Hodson, RDN, CDCES at NYU Langone Health. It’s also a fantastic source of calcium, which helps maintain strong bones and teeth.

Cottage cheese

Big on social media recently, cottage cheese is having a come back. “Just half of a cup of cottage cheese can provide between 12 and 16 grams of protein,” says Barmmer. All you need to do is read the label. “It contains casein, a slow-digesting protein that supports muscle repair and growth. It’s filling and rich in calcium.”

Powders

Protein powders or collagen peptides are a great addition to you diet if you’re looking to up your intake. “Collagen peptides are a convenient, bioavailable, and effective way to support your body’s collagen needs, particularly as production naturally declines with age,” says Barmmer. “Adding them to your diet can help maintain youthful skin, strong joints, and overall connective tissue health.”

Also read:

4 signs you’re not getting enough protein

The best time to have ashwagandha, according to experts

The best time to eat protein, according to experts

Ashwagandha has been having a moment in the wellness and health space, but its roots run deep—over 4,000 years deep, to be precise. This adaptogenic herb, known scientifically as Withania somnifera, has long been a staple in Ayurveda, celebrated for its ability to relieve stress, boost energy, and even improve sleep.

After chai, ghee, coconut oil, and turmeric cemented their place in the global lexicon, ashwagandha has emerged as the next Indian-origin superfood, seamlessly integrating into modern routines. You probably already have it in your kitchen or medicine cabinet, even if you don’t realise it.

But does when you take ashwagandha affect its benefits? We asked the experts.

The many benefits of ashwagandha

“Ashwagandha is a natural stress-buster. It lowers cortisol, calms the mind, and improves sleep. It boosts energy and stamina—once used by ancient warriors before battle. It supports hormonal balance, aids memory and focus, strengthens immunity and fights fatigue,” explains Shweta Shah, celebrity Ayurvedic nutritionist and founder of Eatfit24/7.

Why timing matters

As with most things, timing is everything. Shah explains that while bioavailability remains unchanged, the benefits you experience can vary based on your body’s needs at that time of day. “Ayurveda focuses on syncing with nature, so choosing morning or night depends on what effect you’re looking for.”

Cortisol levels are naturally higher in the morning. Taking ashwagandha at this time can help balance stress, boost energy and improve focus without overstimulating the body. “But in the evening, cortisol drops, signaling relaxation. Ashwagandha can then help promote deep sleep and reduce anxiety,” she adds.

The best time to take ashwagandha

Dr Manoj Kutteri, an expert in integrated medicine and holistic wellness and Medical Director & CEO of Atmantan Wellness Centre, recommends taking ashwagandha in the morning if you’re using it for thyroid support, ideally paired with selenium and zinc for better efficacy. Those dealing with insomnia or sleep disturbances, however, should take it in the evening.

Individuals with chronic stress or nervous system imbalances may benefit from consistent intake regardless of timing. “It might be absorbed quicker by younger people or those with faster metabolisms, so morning doses provide longer-lasting energy. Evening dosages may work better for older people or those looking to reduce stress and improve their sleep. It can enhance strength and endurance for sports performance or muscle recovery by taking it before or after exercise,” says Dr. Sachin Chauhan, BAMS and Ayurveda expert at Rasayanam.