Posts in category: Life Style

Of course, it’s normal to stay in a little cocoon with your newborn for the first couple of weeks, Dr. Degges-White says, but after that, “it’s good to get out.” Leaning on friendships and having engagements (even conversations!) outside your “baby bubble” can help manage stress, boost your mood, prevent isolation and buffer against postpartum depression, Dr. Degges-White explains. Not to mention, “it actually makes you a better partner and parent when you have a chance to have some fun.”

2. Be honest about where you’re at

It might be obvious to you that you’re not intentionally ignoring your friend’s texts; you’re just too fried to squeeze in a shower some days. But “being upfront and open” about how your capacity and priorities are different right now can reassure your friend it’s not about them, Dr. Degges-White says. “Let them know that you’re trying to manage a new way of life,” adds Dr. Mills. “Remind them that it’s not personal and you’ll be back, you just need some time.”

For instance, you might say something like, “I know I’ve been MIA lately, so I just want you to know it’s not you, it’s me! Parenting has me wiped, and some days I barely have time to wash my face. Still figuring it all out, but I miss you!” As Dr. Degges-White explains, “Even if they’re not a parent, they’re gonna understand that life changes.”

3. Invite them into your daily life

If the prospect of showering, putting on real pants and going out for sushi feels positively harrowing, keep your sweats on and rethink what hanging out looks like. Because it “doesn’t have to be overwhelming,” Dr. Mills says. Think about what would actually be easy for you right now, and embrace the convenient or low-key hang.

If you’re going grocery shopping, running errands or taking the baby to a checkup, ask your pal to come along, Dr. Degges-White says. Or invite them to join you on your morning walk around the neighbourhood or for a super-quick coffee. “A little time is better than no time,” as Dr. Mills puts it.

4. Arrange baby-friendly meetups

In an ideal world, you’d get regular baby-free hangs to unwind and stay connected to your identity outside of parenting, Dr. Degges-White says. But that’s not always realistic—or you might want to see friends more often than you can find childcare. In that case, “finding ways to include baby in the activities you do with your friends is a way to keep those friendships alive,” Dr. Degges-White says.

Once, when the women turned up to play a match, they were told that as there were not enough women ice hockey players, those waiting for their turn on the rink should instead set up a men’s match—by doing a traditional dance.

With the taunts piling up, Jahan says, “We thought, ‘Let’s come together and form an organisation.’” That resulted in the formation of the Ladakh Women’s Ice Hockey Foundation in the winter of 2015.

The first initiative was meant to be a Learn to Skate camp for kids in Leh. But soon enough, they realised they would have to create their own skating rink—in DIY mode. Dividing themselves into shifts, starting from 6.30pm, they first poured water onto the frozen pond and smoothened it out to create the first layer. It took four hours for that to freeze, before the second shift could repeat the process, going on until about 3am as the temperature dropped to around minus 25 degrees Celsius, turning the fronds of hair sticking out from under their caps into icicles. They can laugh about it today “because we had each other”. During their first international event, they rented gear from the men, playing in oversized clothing, mismatched skates and refurbished cricket pads. But no more.

A player has her eye on the puck. Photographed by Mathieu Richer Mamousse

If you were to ask Sofia Richie Grainge, Jennifer Lawrence, the Olsen twins, or any stylish Vogue editor in the office if they own mesh flats or a “naked shoe”—they’ll probably spout off a variety of styles they love and new ones they’re coveting. The mesh ballet flat first took flight in early 2024, but it was The Row that initially pushed them into the spotlight in 2019. Now, sisters of the mesh flat have materialized—and the unlikely see-through styles, from crochet knit to embellished flats, have become wardrobe heroes for warm-weather dressing.

However, Alaïa and The Row are no longer the only brands offering these gauzy, open-knit, and studded footwear favorites. There are new mesh styles on the high street, with options ranging from cobalt blue mules at Cos to sock-like barely-there flats from Khaite. For added texture (and a hint of everyday preciousness), look at the crochet flats on the market now. There are floral appliques at Magda Butrym, woven cotton trimmings from Hvoya, and high-end crocheted ballerina flats from Miu Miu. For the evenings, Christopher Esber’s cage-like silhouette would look alluring complemented by fringe skirts or organza tops. And, Jil Sander’s cutout leather ballet flats will add a welcome pop of red to any minimalist ensemble.

There’s no shortage of options available, whether you’re on the hunt for studded flats, or a revamped version of the beloved mesh ballerina, and you can find them all below. Ahead, embellished, crocheted, netted, and mesh ballet flats to indulge in.

Mesh Flats

Leading the charge of pared-back mesh flats is, of course, The Row. Their sock flats embody the label’s signature sense of lived-in minimalism. For a color burst, look to Proenza Schouler, Dear Frances, and Cos—these pleasant spring hues will break up the dreariness of the current season.

Luna mesh ballerina flats

Bergdorf Goodman

₹ 50,500.00

Mary Jane mesh ballet flats

Saks Fifth Avenue

₹52,500.00

double-strap mesh ballerina flats

Crochet Flats

Remember the trending au natural footwear of early 2024? Well, there are more styles available that are a visual ode to more temperate, balmy days. Wear a crochet flat, like Mango’s or Larroude’s, with transitional essentials, like trench coats and baggy denim.

floral-appliqué crochet ballet flats

Chaotic cotton ballet flats

Moda Operandi

₹ 37,000.00

metallic crocheted ballet flats

net-a-porter

₹ 1,40,000.00

Verona macrame ballet flat

crochet bicolor ballerina flats

Bergdorf Goodman

₹ 1,29,000.00

Netted Flats

Part fisherman aesthetic, part prep, the best flats of the moment have a netted nakedness to them. Dip your toe in with a more classic style from Reformation, or go big bait with a standout style from Christopher Esber or Bottega Veneta.

stretch ballerina flat

Bottega Veneta

₹ 1,25,000.00

mesh ballet flats

net-a-porter

₹ 59,000.00

cutout knotted leather ballet flats

net-a-porter

₹ 1,59,000.00

Embellished Flats

The embellished ballerina flat is nothing new—if anything, the styles ahead are more amplified versions of those favorites we’ve come to know and love. You know the ones; often studded, metallic, and beaded. There’s an eyelet-adorned suede from Toteme, and a crystal-covered flat from Khaite, to start.

crystal stud mary jane ballerina flats

Neiman Marcus

₹ 1,29,000.00

lace-up eyelet suede ballet flats

net-a-porter

₹ 66,000.00

studded suede ballet flats

This story first appeared on Vogue.com

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According to Kylie Jenner, ballet flats are back in fashion. Do you agree?

As the forecast brightens, Genelia Deshmukh will convince you to make saris your first port of call. For a recent outing, she turned to an elegant green drape by Label Anushree. Constructed using breathable bandhani, it will appeal to lovers of craft, colour and comfort.

Styled by Pranay Jaitly and Shounak Amonkar, Genelia Deshmukh’s forest green silk sari was offset with intricate red dots characteristic of bandhani. The age-old art form, native to Gujarat, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh, dates back to the Ajanta Caves, which depict women in apparel featuring tie-dye patterns. These patterns were also seen in twelfth-century Jain manuscript paintings. Across generations, bandhani has retained its status as a top choice for women of a certain elegance. Its heritage craft comes with its own lexicon—the Sanskrit word banda, which translates to ‘to tie’. Bandhani comes to life through a resist-dyeing technique, where the textile is plucked with fingernails and tied with a cotton thread, forming figurative designs such as elephants, parrots, peacocks, dancing humans, flowers, diamond-shaped barfis, and mango-inspired paisleys. Eventually, the fabric is dyed in the desired colour. It is a labour- and time-intensive process that can take anywhere between four months to a year to complete, depending on the number of artisans involved, but the results are unparalleled.

The Indian summer can be unforgiving, with temperatures soaring to uncomfortable heights. However, amidst the sweltering heat, one piece of clothing stands the test of time and weather – the Kurta Pajama for Men. This traditional Indian attire has managed to remain not only relevant but also incredibly stylish, offering comfort, breathability, and timeless elegance. Whether you are attending a casual gathering, a festive occasion, or just looking for something cool yet trendy, the Kurta Pajama for Men is your best summer companion.

At Nihal Fashions, we understand that looking stylish doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice comfort. So, let’s dive into why the Kurta Pajama for Men is truly the perfect choice for the Indian summer!

1. Lightweight and Breathable Fabrics

One of the primary reasons why Indian Dresses, particularly the Kurta For Men, are perfect for the summer months is the choice of fabrics. Kurtas are made from lightweight and breathable materials like cotton, linen, and khadi. These fabrics allow air to flow freely, keeping your body cool even on the hottest days. Unlike heavy synthetic fabrics that trap heat, the natural fibers used in kurtas absorb sweat and help maintain a comfortable temperature.

Cotton, for instance, is soft, durable, and moisture-wicking, making it ideal for hot weather. The breathable nature of cotton ensures that you stay fresh and comfortable, even after long hours of wearing your Mens Kurta.

2. Comfort Meets Style

Let’s face it – the Indian summer is brutal, and during such times, comfort becomes your number one priority. While many prefer to wear lightweight shirts or tees during the day, they often end up feeling too snug or too casual for more formal settings. This is where the Kurta Pajama for Men steps in.

The Mens Kurta offers the perfect balance between style and comfort. Its relaxed fit and breathable materials make it an incredibly comfortable option, while the diverse styles, ranging from simple to elegant, ensure you never compromise on looking good. Whether you are attending a family gathering or a festive celebration, the kurta allows you to feel comfortable while still looking sharp.

3. Versatile and Fashion-Forward

The versatility of the Kurta For Men is another key reason it works so well for the Indian summer. Kurtas come in various designs, colors, and patterns, making them suitable for different occasions. You can choose from a simple cotton kurta for casual wear or opt for an embellished version for a more formal or festive look.

In addition to the design flexibility, the Kurta Pajama for Men pairs perfectly with a variety of accessories, giving it the edge when it comes to fashion-forward summer dressing. Whether you want to add a statement necklace, a stylish watch, or a sleek pair of sandals, a Mens Kurta complements these accessories beautifully, making you look dashing while staying cool in the heat.

4. Perfect for Casual or Semi-Formal Settings

Summer is often the time for casual family gatherings, relaxed festivals, and evening parties. The Kurta Pajama for Men is the ultimate go-to outfit for such occasions. Whether you’re enjoying a backyard BBQ, attending a wedding, or visiting a temple, the kurta fits every setting with ease.

A light cotton Kurta For Men paired with cotton or linen pajamas gives off a relaxed yet refined vibe. For more formal events, you can opt for a silk or satin kurta with intricate designs and pair it with a more structured pajama. This makes the kurta an incredibly adaptable choice for the summer season, suitable for both casual and semi-formal occasions.

5. Timeless Appeal with Traditional Elegance

While fashion trends come and go, the kurta has remained a symbol of tradition, culture, and elegance in India. The Mens Kurta has been a staple of Indian dressing for centuries and continues to exude timeless charm. During the Indian summer, this traditional outfit is a beautiful reminder of our roots.

Even as modern fashion influences evolve, the Kurta Pajama for Men has kept up with the times. You’ll find contemporary versions featuring unique cuts, embroidery, and prints that blend traditional craftsmanship with modern sensibilities. Whether you’re a fan of minimalistic design or love rich embroidery, there’s a Mens Kurta to suit every taste.

6. Easy to Maintain

Another reason why the Kurta Pajama for Men works wonderfully in the summer is its low-maintenance nature. Since most kurtas are made from durable cotton, khadi, or linen, they require little to no upkeep. They are easy to wash, and unlike other summer fabrics, they don’t easily lose their shape or fade in the sun. Whether you’re wearing your Kurta For Men to the office or an outing, you don’t need to worry about complicated care routines.

7. Great for Layering

While summer can be hot, the evenings in India, especially in coastal and hilly regions, may become a little chilly. The Kurta Pajama for Men is perfect for such weather transitions. Pair your light kurta with a stylish nehru jacket or a soft shawl for an added layer of warmth when needed. This versatility allows you to enjoy your Indian Dresses in varying climates without any discomfort.

8. A Sustainable Fashion Choice

Sustainability has become a major focus in today’s fashion world, and traditional Indian Dresses like the Kurta Pajama for Men have embraced this movement. Made from natural fibers such as cotton and khadi, these garments are biodegradable, making them eco-friendly choices for summer wear. Moreover, many Indian brands are now focusing on sustainable production practices, ensuring that the clothes you wear not only reflect your style but also your commitment to the environment.

9. Stylish Yet Relaxed Fit

One of the most attractive features of the Kurta Pajama for Men is its relaxed and comfortable fit. Unlike other tight or form-fitting clothes, the kurta offers a laid-back silhouette that allows for freedom of movement. This makes it a great choice for those days when you want to look good without feeling constricted by your clothes. The loose-fitting nature of the kurta allows air circulation and minimizes discomfort during hot weather.

10. Ideal for Summer Celebrations and Festivals

India’s summer months coincide with many cultural festivals and celebrations. From weddings to religious events, the kurta plays an important role in the festive attire. Whether it’s Eid, Diwali, or a traditional family gathering, the Kurta Pajama for Men is always an excellent choice for such occasions. Its ability to combine tradition and comfort makes it the go-to attire for celebrations in the scorching heat.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Kurta Pajama for Men is the ultimate summer solution for Indian men looking for a stylish, comfortable, and versatile outfit. Its breathable fabrics, relaxed fit, and adaptability make it perfect for everything from casual outings to grand celebrations. At Nihal Fashions, we understand the significance of this timeless piece of attire and offer a wide range of kurtas in various designs, fabrics, and colors to suit your unique style.Whether you’re looking for a traditional Mens Kurta or a contemporary twist on the classic, our collection has something for everyone. Embrace the heat, stay stylish, and experience the comfort and elegance of the Kurta Pajama for Men this summer. Visit Nihal Fashions today to discover the best of Indian fashion!

Another reason to check first: Some people have phones issued by work or that they use for both personal and work purposes, and explicit language could violate rules for how they’re supposed to use that device, says Lexx Brown-James, EdD, LMFT, director of the Sexual Health Certificate Program at the University of Michigan’s School of Social Work.

Not to mention, asking can help you sort through the logistics of time and place—you might not want to send them three eggplant emojis when they’re sharing their screen at work or tell them how much you loved feeling their [insert body part] last night while they’re in the midst of dinner with their kids, for instance. Even if they’re just busy, it can suck to be waiting on a reply to a saucy text for a prolonged period of time, Dr. Brown-James says. That’s why you want to get on the same page about if and when they’re generally into sexting before diving straight in.

It also doesn’t hurt to double-check (hell, even triple-check) that you’re sexting the right person before you actually hit send on anything, Dr. Brown-James adds: Being on the receiving end of a sext from a friend may be awkward in a funny way—but sending a sext to your boss, parent, sibling or PTA group chat? Not so much.

Start simple, then layer on the descriptions and the adjectives

It doesn’t have to be carnal, Dr. Brown-James says. And it probably shouldn’t be right off the bat. Dr. Tara suggests starting out with energy compliments—for instance, “Your energy is so sexy.” You can also try some playful teasing to signal the vibe, she adds, like: “Guess what I’m wearing right now?” And when they ask: “That naughty lingerie you got me.”

Once you’re both on board with what’s happening, you can pile on more descriptive words. As Engle says, it’s easy to see how just adding “juicy,” “wet” or “thick” to the imaginary scene you’re painting or compliment you’re dishing out could make it very filthy.

Todd Baratz, LMHC, psychotherapist, AASECT-certified sex therapist and member of the plusOne Wellness Collective recommends focusing on sensory details to take things up a notch. Maybe you’ve raved about their physical appearance—but is there some way they smell, feel or taste when they’re at their sexiest that you can describe? Or flip the script and use that same lens to portray characteristics of yourself being turned on by them. Whichever you choose, serve it up piecemeal—just a few lines max at a time, Dr. Brown-James says: “Reading a dissertation in a text can kill the vibe.”

If you’ve hooked up with them before, describe your favorite parts about it…

A simple approach is just reminiscing on the best sexy encounter you’ve had with this person (if they’re a regular partner) or the most recent one. As Dr. Brown-James says, you don’t have to be an erotic novelist; you just have to jog your own memory. Any specific thing you loved about that hookup or something you know you want to do again with them will work here, like: “I’m still thinking about when you went down on me last weekend,” or “I literally can’t wait until the next time you [insert spicy thing they did here].”

…Or paint the picture of an ideal future sex session

Maybe you haven’t gotten physical with them yet—or there’s just some sexual avenue you haven’t explored together. Engle suggests taking a minute to think about what that might look like and asking yourself what would be most arousing in a future hookup: Is there a certain sex toy you’d like to bring in? Do you want to try bondage? Role-play? Whatever it is, use your imagination to depict the experience you want to have with them.

If they’re not catching your drift, pause to offer more context

Let’s say you start recounting your last romp in graphic detail or elucidating why they’re so damn fine, and they’re giving you little more than one-word responses (or, worse yet, settling for mere heart or thumbs-up reactions). Engle herself has been there. She suggests taking a step back and sharing a bit about what you’re trying to achieve in a straightforward (but not aggressive) way. Explain briefly why sexting matters to you, and follow it up with a request: “Would it be possible for you to give me back what I’m serving?” According to Engle, most people who are game to sext are also happy to be more engaged if their partner asks.

Use your fantasies as fodder for inspiration

Since sexting isn’t actually sex, it can also function as a low-risk setting to explore kink. Maybe you have a fantasy about having sex in public, and the idea of someone else seeing you is thrilling. Or perhaps there are specific kinds of role-play that really get you off—like the scenario of a nurse and their patient, or a boss and their assistant. You can use any and all of that to guide your sexting forays. As Engle points out, this isn’t an essay you’re turning in at school or submitting for publication so feel free to lift ideas directly from your favourite pieces of erotic material. The truth is, nobody cares if what you say isn’t wholly original. Certain fantasies become cliché for a reason: Tons of people find them hot. So put yourself in the POV of a porn star, and describe exactly what’s happening, she says.

Love is Blind: Sweden returns for its second season, inviting a fresh cohort of Swedish singles to explore the depths of emotional connection without the influence of physical appearance. Hosted by Jessica Almenäs, this social experiment challenges participants to engage in heartfelt conversations within secluded pods, fostering bonds that transcend superficiality. Among the diverse cast are Alexander, a 30-year-old financial advisor; Alicia, a 31-year-old recruiter; Amanda, a 27-year-old fashion sales manager; and Anna, a 34-year-old middle school teacher.

Streaming on Netflix

The Wheel of Time season 3 (March 13)

Between awards season, film premieres, and gala events, our best-dressed stars have kept things bold on the red carpet, serving up some of their most high-glam looks to date. After all, these nights aren’t just about celebration—they’re where true fashion prowess is put to the test. We’re talking sequins, cut-outs, and a bevy of barely-there evening wear, served by A-listers like Sonam Kapoor, Ananya Panday, Mindy Kaling, and many more.

For starters, Sonam Kapoor embraced 1920s flapper-era glamour in a milky-white satin dress by Anamika Khanna, layered with tassels and a matching cape. Hand-painted florals—a signature of the designer—added an artisanal touch, while Kapoor’s choice to wear her jewels in reverse nodded to an emerging trend.

More notably, sequins, crystals, and other dazzling details had their moment this week. For the annual South Asian Oscar event, Mindy Kaling slipped into custom Rahul Mishra couture—a corseted sari-style gown with jharoka detailing—which she paired with radiant emeralds and diamonds from Effy Jewelry. Meanwhile, Banita Sandhu lit up the 33rd Annual Elton John AIDS Foundation Academy Awards Viewing Party in an electric midnight-blue Georges Hobeika Couture Fall 2024 gown. She completed the high-glam look with a Judith Leiber disco ball clutch and diamond jewellery from Lisa Nik’s Diamond Game and Asymmetric collections.

A bolder take on the bob, this shorter version, stopping right at the chin, accentuates the jawline and cheekbones, adding a touch of playful chic. It’s a great option for those wanting a low-maintenance yet stylish look.

Pixie cut

A timeless symbol of nonconformity and chicness, the pixie cut is surprisingly versatile. From the gamine charm of Audrey Hepburn and Jean Seberg to the supermodel edge of Linda Evangelista, this cut can be tailored to suit any personality. Think effortless cool with minimal upkeep.

Curtain bangs

Instagram.com/@ananyapanday

Evoking a touch of French girl chic, curtain bangs scream effortless cool. These soft, parted layers delicately frame the face, drawing attention to the eyes and cheekbones. From Brigitte Bardot, who practically defined the look, to modern-day celebrities like Jennifer Lopez and Selena Gomez, this style has remained timeless.

Long layers

Celebrities don’t tend to walk the red carpet without meticulous preparation. There are the hairstylists and their assistants, wielding tools, clips and tongs; working around the make-up artist (and their assistants) who, in turn, are working around the manicurists. Not to mention the styling team, additional friends and anyone else in the general vicinity. As Isabella Rossellini recently told British Vogue, “It’s pretty crazy!”

instagram.com/@anyataylorjoy

So, when a star steps out sans the expected accoutrements (like Pamela Anderson, for example, who in recent years has sworn off make-up), it’s a refreshing change. This is exactly why Anya Taylor-Joy, Reneé Zellweger, and Nicola Peltz Beckham all eschewing nail polish has felt like such a step change this awards season.

Ernesto Ruscio/Getty Images

Seen variously attending a Tiffany & Co. event in Paris, France, on the red carpet at the Italian premiere of Mad About the Boy, and on the front row at the Burberry autumn/winter 2025 show in London, each woman has seemingly done away with colourful manicures, choosing a ‘naked manicure’ of a short shape and sheer, glossy top coat instead.

Dave Benett/Getty Images

Perhaps they’re just taking a break from the norm because their nails need it? Respite for nail beds and cuticles exhausted by the cycle of constantly changing manicures? Or, perhaps it points to a real sea change – a doing away with the old standard of block colour or a classic French and embracing au naturel nails in the form of a naked manicure. It certainly looks as though the natural nail revolution has arrived.

This story first appeared on Vogue.com

Also read:

The biggest nail colour trends of 2025, according to experts

Malaika Arora and Janhvi Kapoor show off red nails and glossy lips in the best beauty looks of the week

30 of the best ever celebrity manicures