Posts in category: Life Style

The best lip oils of 2025 are leading beauty’s gloss renaissance. Forget matte fatigue—these formulas prioritise hydration over high drama, delivering a slick of shine with serious skincare benefits. Think lightweight, nourishing, and effortlessly cool.

With smart, skincare-adjacent ingredients and a finish that feels as good as it looks, the best lip oils do more than gloss over—they replenish, soften, and enhance. Whether you love a sheer wash of colour or a lacquered, mirror-like effect, this year’s standout formulas prove that a well-dressed pout is one that’s deeply conditioned.

Below, the definitive edit of the best lip oils to shop for now—from cult classics to homegrown heroes.

The best lip oils of the moment

Dior Addict Lip Glow Oil

Still undefeated. A colour-morphing, mirror-shine oil that’s on every runway-ready face and deserves a space in every bag.

Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Tinted Lip Oil

Selena Gomez’s take feels almost like water—except it clings, in the best way, and gives a flattering flush that doesn’t move.

Lakmé Lumi Cream Lip Oil Gloss

A glossy lip treatment-meets-makeup from a true Indian beauty legacy brand. The finish is balmy, the shine high, and the wear time surprisingly long.

Clarins Lip Comfort Oil

A French pharmacy classic that packs its plant-powered formula into a luxe-gloss finish. Chic et practical.

Kylie Cosmetics Tinted Lip Oil

A new-gen player from Kylie Jenner’s beauty empire—unexpectedly hydrating, surprisingly chic. The colour payoff is soft but satisfying.

Kosas Wet Lip Oil Gloss

Makeup that moonlights as treatment. Peptides, hyaluronic acid, and just the right level of slip.

Typsy Beauty SPF Lip Oil

Active-infused and ingredient-forward—think sun protection, hydration, and a barely-there glaze that works across looks.

Fenty Skin Lip Oil

Think of this as the red carpet prep step—conditioning, glossing and scented deliciously.

82°E Clear Lip Oil Balm

Deeply conditioning and endlessly wearable—this lip oil from Deepika Padukone’s wellness line is as elevated as it is effective. An everyday essential with an Ayurvedic backbone.

Byredo Liquid Lipstick Vinyl

Is it a gloss? A lipstick? A lacquer? The answer: yes, and it’s brilliant. With its high-shine vinyl finish and buttery slip, this beauty-lovers’ favourite offers intense payoff with a creamy blend of vegan oils and shea butter.

TIRTIR My Glow Lip Oil

A K-beauty sleeper hit that deserves the spotlight. Think glassy shine with featherlight feel, enriched with squalane and camellia oil. Quiet luxury for the lips, bottled.

Also read:

10 peptide lip balms that do more than just hydrate

How skincare-infused lip gloss and tints are becoming the new lip balms

If you have lip pigmentation, these are the 12 mistakes to avoid, according to a dermatologist

Few rituals are as universally cherished as that first cup of coffee in the morning. For some, it’s a moment of stillness before the day begins; for others, it’s a social prelude to the workday, shared over clinking cups and quick exchanges. While green tea has made its case as a worthy alternative, the allure of a perfectly brewed arabica remains unmatched.

But here’s where the ritual gets tricky—drinking coffee on an empty stomach might not be the best idea. While it jolts you awake, it can also trigger a cascade of side effects, from digestive discomfort to heightened cortisol levels (read: unnecessary stress before you’ve even opened your inbox). In a world obsessed with wellness, it’s worth reconsidering whether your morning caffeine fix needs a supporting act—a bite of something solid to keep your system in check.

So, before you reach for that espresso shot first thing, you might want to rethink the order of your morning routine. Your stomach will thank you.

What happens when you drink coffee on an empty stomach?

Acidity and poor digestion

Drinking coffee on an empty stomach can increase gastric acidity. Coffee stimulates the production of hydrochloric acid in the stomach, which, if not balanced by some food, can irritate the gastric mucous membranes. This can lead to a burning sensation, gastroesophageal reflux (when stomach acid flows back up the tube that connects the mouth and the stomach), and gastritis – especially in those who are already prone to stomach problems. Acid can erode the gastric mucosa (the slippery protective layer that lines the inner surface of the stomach) more easily when it is not protected by food, increasing the risk of inflammation.

Cortisol spike and hormonal stress

Beyond its rich aroma and energising kick, coffee has a direct impact on our hormonal system—specifically, cortisol, the so-called stress hormone. Naturally, cortisol levels peak in the morning to help us wake up, but drinking coffee on an empty stomach can push those levels even higher, sending the body into a state of unnecessary stress.

The result? A jittery, anxious feeling that’s less “calmly caffeinated” and more “edge-of-a-burnout.” Over time, excess cortisol can throw your metabolism off balance, disrupt sleep patterns, and leave you feeling more wired than wonderful. In short, that first cup—when consumed without a buffer—might be doing more harm than good.

The white skirt has quietly returned—not as a sweet afterthought but as a uniform. The best way to style white skirts? Separates. Think ribbed tanks, baby tees and silk shirts. Ahead, we curate cool ways to style them from day to night.

Brunch dressing

For daywear, lean into contrast. A tailored white midi with sharp pleats or an asymmetrical hem thrives when paired with a black funnel-neck top and low heels that mean business. Add a pair of angular sunglasses and the effect is less “good girl,” more “cool authority.” Clean lines, crisp fabric, and that deliberate balance of structure and fluidity—it’s a uniform for the woman who knows where she’s going.

Date night

On weekends, the white mini skirt takes a casual turn. Style it with a boyish tank top, unfussy flip-flops, and barely-there gold jewellery. Throw on a lightweight shirt, left unbuttoned, and suddenly you’re referencing ‘90s nonchalance with just the right amount of effort. The mini doesn’t ask for attention—it assumes it.

Cocktail hour

Then comes the evening. Long, slinky white skirts in satin or silk pair beautifully with an oversized graphic tee or a vintage button-down. Knot it at the waist. Or don’t. The point is to keep it unexpected. This isn’t about being polished, it’s about being personal. Add a kitten heel if you’re feeling playful or a flat sandal if you’re not.

Accessories should never shout—a single sculptural earring, a sleek crossbody, maybe even a sports watch to disrupt the softness. Consider a red lip, but only if it feels earned. And if the skirt gets a little wrinkled through the night? Even better. Perfection is boring.

What makes the white skirt feel right now isn’t just the cut or the length—it’s the attitude. It speaks softly but carries presence. It’s versatile without being vanilla. It doesn’t perform femininity, it reclaims it—with a wink, not a wave.

This season, forget about saving white for weddings or holidays. Let it be your weekday armour, your Saturday uniform, your answer to what now? And wear it with just the right amount of edge

Also read:

7 stylish heels to wear with a white skirt in spring summer 2025

9 miniskirts you need in your closet to make heads turn

14 denim skirt styles to wear with everything in your closet

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.

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Scarf neckline + flares

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

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White on white

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

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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