Posts in category: Life Style

It’s time for your update of the latest OTT releases and the coming week has the perfect blend of movies and TV shows to satiate all your bingeing needs. Neeraj Pandey expands his Khakee universe with The Bengal Chapter, a gripping crime saga set in Kolkata; Parmish Verma headlines Kanneda, a gritty drama exploring the clash between ambition and survival in ‘90s Toronto’s immigrant underworld; after a triumphant Oscar sweep with five wins, Anora gears up for its much-awaited digital premiere.

Anora (March 17)

Whenever I order clothes off a website, they arrive slightly loose or too tight, made with a material I’ve never seen before, looking different from what I expected. Scrolling through online stores, I’m overwhelmed: Will this dress look as good on me as it does on the model? Will it make me look shorter? Is the colour not right?

Most importantly, though, I relish the experience of shopping more than the purchase itself. Entering a store and awkwardly smiling at the staff. Gliding on smooth tiles towards the section you’re looking for. Combing item after item until you find one that is perfect. Eavesdropping on other customers. Posing in front of a trial room mirror and then asking your friend for their opinion. Shopping offline is as convenient as it is enjoyable: everything a store offers is at your disposal to try, twirl in, then throw into a basket.

The newest outlet of Pernia’s Pop-Up Shop, replacing Zara at the iconic Ismail Building in Fort, strives to bring back these exciting moments that accompany offline shopping. Abhishek Agarwal, founder of Purple Style Labs, which acquired Pernia’s in 2018, is keen to not just revive but elevate this experience for luxury shoppers across the city. Pernia’s newest store spans 59,350 sqft. “At one point, even looking at 500 luxury items in the same space was big,” notes Agarwal. “Meanwhile, this store will have almost 5,000 pieces under the same roof for people to browse.”

Agarwal has always preferred large-store formats. “A large store can accommodate more customers and improve the shopping experience,” he elaborates. “For instance, more staff members will attend to shoppers who want to spend a few hours browsing. There will be more trial rooms, so people don’t have to wait in queues. Shoppers will also get more breathing space. All these little things matter.”

As Pernia’s Pop-Up Shop is a multi-brand, Agarwal believes that a larger space is also necessary to plan and set up divisions within the store for a shop-in-shop experience. “Historically, we’ve been a traditional multi-brand that stocked by the rack because our stores weren’t always large enough to make sections,” he admits. The newest outlet, though, will have more categories and designer-curated sections that bring each brand’s aesthetics to the forefront. “We are working on a floor-by-floor model where we try to segregate items by categories to create a smoother shopping experience. So, if you’re there to buy fusion wear between Rs50,000 and Rs1 lakh, you don’t have to move through all five floors. It saves your time.”

“Aquatic fragrances are designed to capture the fresh, breezy essence of water, whether it’s the ocean, a cool lake, or a misty morning,” says Nicole Mancini, principal perfumer at international flavouring and fragrance company dsm-firmenich.

The concept is straightforward, and getting a whiff of an aquatic fragrance would make you believe executing it is simple—these scents are often light and crisp, with an inherent effortlessness that’s not as common in other perfume categories. But nothing could be farther from the truth: After all, water itself is unscented, so what’s being harnessed here is the idea of a smell. “Perfumers recreate its presence through synthetic molecules that mimic its airy, fluid quality, emphasising an invigorating freshness that defines the category,” says Pierre Vouard, fragrance marketing consultant and adjunct professor at the Fashion Institute of Technology.

Vogue’s favourite aquatic fragrances

There’s a good chance that the best aquatic perfumes as we know them would not exist today if not for Calone. With an ozonic, crisp, and slightly fruity scent reminiscent of freshly-cut watermelon, this aromachemical became a darling of perfumers around the world in the 1990s, which is when the aquatic fragrance category was born. “Aquatic fragrances offered a refreshing contrast to the rich, opulent perfumes of the decade prior, ushering in a new era of minimalism in scent,” says Vouard.

Perhaps unsurprisingly, you’ll also often find Ambroxan in aquatic fragrances—this aromachemical is a vegan alternative to ambergris, a whale-derived ingredient used in perfume—as well as Aquazone, a note that’s similar to Calone but with a saltier, more iodine-like aroma. You’ll also see more recognisable, plant-derived notes, which can serve as helpful guides as you shop. For example, maybe you’re looking for an aquatic fragrance that’s like a Caribbean vacation in a bottle. “Coconut adds a tropical, creamy warmth,” says Mancini. “Aromatic notes, such as herbs and spices, introduce a fresh, herbal dimension, while lemon and bergamot bring a zesty brightness.” (Great when you’re seeking out aquatic scents that call to mind damp gardens or Mediterranean holidays, respectively.) Woods, like sandalwood, cedar, and oud, can provide warmth and depth.

From the ’90s to the present day, here are some of the best aquatic perfumes on the market.

The summer-inspired: DS & Durga Rose Atlantic Eau de Parfum

Rose Atlantic Eau de Parfum

Bluemercury

₹ 21,000.00

• Why we love it: Inspired by summers spent seaside in New England, this perfume utilizes an unexpected form of rose—rather than the powdery or velvety floral notes you find in many fragrances, this one is sweet, evoking the delicate beach rose (rosa rugosa) that grows along the shoreline during warmer months. To really capture the coastal vibes, the jammy rose is paired with notes of salt and seawater, the salinity of which are tempered by green dune grass and effervescent bergamot. It all comes together to create a scent that’s somehow modern yet nostalgic.
• Key notes: Bergamot, rose, seawater, dune grass
• Size: 1.7 fl. oz.

The salty option: Maison Margiela Replica Sailing Day Eau de Toilette

Replica Sailing Day Eau de Toilette Fragrance

• Why we love it: Though this is definitely more of a masculine fragrance, anyone who enjoys a crisp, light aquatic scent will appreciate this eau de toilette from Maison Margiela. “I love Replica Sailing Day—it’s a fresh, invigorating scent that gives me the feeling of gliding on open waters,” says Mancini. The scent opens with aromatic coriander, sea notes, and sparkling aldehydes. As it dries down, “the salty, woody freshness of red seaweed is associated with the mineral notes of ambergris, evoking the depth of the ocean,” says Vouard.
• Key notes: Coriander, seaweed, cedar
• Size: 1 oz.

The airy button-down: Henry Rose Jake’s House Eau de Parfum

Jake’s House Eau de Parfum

• Why we love it: This airy, unisex scent from clean fragrance brand Henry Rose is effortlessly chic and sexy; it’s the perfume equivalent of a white linen button-down left casually open. The artful blend of neroli and jasmine with marine and musk notes is well balanced so as not to skew overly feminine or masculine and is sheer enough to layer with other fragrances, but no need—it’s completely dreamy worn on its own.
• Key notes: Marine notes, neroli, ambroxan
• Size: 1.7 fl. oz.

The serene scent: The Nue Co. Relax Water Therapy Fragrance

Relax Water Therapy Fragrance

• Why we love it: Reach for this scent on busy mornings when you want your fragrance to act like peaceful background music rather than a dramatic solo. Notes of sandalwood, seaweed, amber, and sea salt get a bit of a masculine edge from fir that’s then softened with feminine rose, all of which sit very close to the skin. This fragrance is actually an aromatherapeutic perfume inspired by the concept of thalassotherapy—the serenity felt when you’re near water—and it definitely lives up to its calming claims.
• Key Notes: Seaweed, marine salt, amber
• Size: 1.7 fl. oz.

The sunny day: Jo Malone Wood Sage & Sea Salt Cologne

Wood Sage and Sea Salt Cologne

Jo Malone, Bluemercury

₹ 16,800.00

• Why we love it: Perfectly gender neutral, this bestselling Jo Malone scent reminds us of a hot afternoon spent at a rocky beach. It opens with bright, sunny grapefruit, quickly fading to marine notes of seaweed and salt. The heart notes of sage and ambrette combine to create a unique sense of dry warmth, like driftwood and pebbles that have soaked up hours of sun on a still day.
• Key notes: Salt, grapefruit, ambrette
• Size: 3.4 fl. oz.

The classic choice: Giorgio Armani Acqua di Gió Eau de Toilette

Acqua di Gió Eau de Toilette

• Why we love it: The odds are very high that you’ve smelled this one before—according to Vouard, it’s one of the most successful aquatic fragrances of all time, earning the title of top men’s fragrance in the US for 11 years in a row. It’s a masterpiece, blending Calone and sea notes with a cornucopia of citrus fruits (including lime and bergamot), a garden’s worth of lush flowers (jasmine, hyacinth, and violet, to name a few), and aromatic herbs to create a scent that’s bright, warm, and soft.
• Key notes: Calone, lime, patchouli
• Size: 1.7 fl. oz.

The oceanic floral: Skylar Salt Air Eau de Parfum

• Why we love it: The name of this unisex scent is simple yet apt, considering how mineralic and ozonic the fragrance really is. Sand, driftwood, and sandalwood give it a somewhat dry quality, while very subtle white floral notes add a hint of “clean laundry” vibes. The perfume leaves behind a bolder trail than many others in this category, making it a nice choice for misting mid-winter when you’re craving a beachy getaway.
• Key notes: Driftwood, sand, sandalwood
• Size: 1.7 fl. oz.

The edgy aroma: Tom Ford Oud Minérale Eau de Parfum

Oud Minérale Eau de Parfum

Bluemercury

₹ 16,000.00

• Why we love it: This one’s a real chameleon and best for someone who gravitates towards bolder, edgier scents that lean masculine. The sea notes take some time to reveal themselves—you’ll first notice smoky styrax and rich oud, which give the fragrance an earthy and almost gasoline-like aroma. After a few minutes, the air clears, giving way to a perfume that smells salty and gritty, like a rocky coast.
• Key notes: Sea notes, oud, seagrass
• Size: 1.6 fl. oz.

The light and green: Maison Francis Kurkdjian Aqua Media Cologne Forte

• Why we love it: While most aquatic scents are reminiscent of ocean water, Maison Francis Kurkdjian captures the essence of rainwater, making the notes of verbena, bergamot, and matcha smell even greener and fresher. Grounded by spicy fennel and velvety musks, this unisex cologne boasts impressively long wear yet is refreshing and light enough to wear on a super humid day.
• Key notes: Fennel, bergamot, musk
• Size: 1.2 fl. oz.

The subtle smell: Liis Lucienne Eau de Parfum

• Why we love it: This is a sophisticated aquatic skin scent, only projecting enough for those very close to be able to sniff the blend of rose, magnolia, citrus, and ocean notes. I like spraying this one on bare skin after showering as well as ahead of situations where I want to smell wonderful without overwhelming others—it’s subtle, sophisticated, and clean.
• Key notes: Magnolia, pomelo, sea notes
• Size: 1.7 fl. oz.

The spring shower: Issey Miyake L’Eau d’Issey Eau de Toilette

L’Eau d’Issey Eau de Toilette

Saks Fifth Avenue

₹ 9,700.00

• Why we love it: This scent came out in the early 1990s and it’s been a bestseller ever since. It’s at once heady yet crisp, thanks to a blend of feminine florals (like freesia, lily of the valley, and tuberose) and watery botanicals (melon and lotus), creating a “serene, zen, rain-like effect,” says Vouard. It’s perfect for spring—imagine April showers in a bottle.
• Key notes: Calone, rose water, lotus
• Size: 1.7 fl. Oz.

The ambery mist: Victoria Beckham Beauty Portofino ’97 Eau de Parfum

Portofino ’97 Eau de Parfum

Bluemercury

₹ 20,000.00

• Why we love it: This unisex perfume leans masculine, with warm amber and earthy patchouli anchoring marine notes, vibrant bergamot, and piquant black pepper. Inspired by a clandestine Italian vacation that Posh and Becks took in 1997, it’s perfect for sharing with your significant other if you both appreciate a bolder scent. The flask-like bottle adds a gorgeous pop of colour to any fragrance collection.
• Key notes: Black pepper, sea notes, patchouli
• Size: 1.7 fl. oz.

Everything you need to know

What are the most popular aquatic fragrances?

Aquatic fragrances started as a minimalist genre that spotlighted airy, lightweight scents, but the category has evolved over the years; today’s aquatic perfumes can be rich and complex. Regardless of whether it’s breezy or bold, the key to a great aquatic fragrance is balance, says Vouard. “A standout aquatic scent uses contrast—perhaps pairing its breezy freshness with woods, florals, or musks for depth and evolution,” he explains.

It’s almost half past six in the evening when I coax myself out of the gate. I zigzag my way around dogs and dog walkers, do the customary nods and hand-waves at acquaintances. I finish two rounds and stare at the empty road ahead. It’s now past seven and still pitch dark. Everyone else seems to have retreated. There are blind spots where street lamps are obstructed by tree branches, the rest is lit by an ominous yellow light. Unnerved, I turn back in the direction of home.

Moments later, three young girls come into view. They are dressed in tees and track pants, walking shoulder-to-shoulder as they fan out on the road. They seem unaware of the dark or its potential menace. A sliver of a smile returns to my lips upon realising that I am not alone. I turn around and march ahead. The girls have my back, I tell myself. Their chatter and footsteps offer me comfort and protection.

This is a game that I have played many times in public spaces: pretend to be part of a group that I am not a part of. It is both an act of self-preservation and wishful thinking. The girls are huddled together like an amorphous lump of human intimacy. I can’t help but feel envy at their cosy, sticky, young-girl inseparability.

I don’t have a school gang that I am still in touch with, no circle of friends with whom I meet and socialise regularly. At any given point in my life, I have only one or two deep friendships. In principle and in most movie plots (looking at you Dil Chahta Hai, Three Idiots, Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara and Bride Wars), this is considered enough. But people are busy; they have jobs, kids, ageing parents. If you have only one or two people to rely on, you must wait for your turn.

There have been a few exceptions. Early in my career, I joined a large multinational corporation as a content analyst. A bunch of us new hires clung to each other, overwhelmed by corporate processes and peculiarities. Multiple time trackers. Incomprehensible acronyms like KPIs, SOPs and SLAs. During lunch, we pushed tables together, sharing our food and discomfort. A few months later, I was assigned to a different team and transferred to a different floor. Now, lunch breaks had to be coordinated via chat. Soon, the timing of the break, the relevant gossip, the target of our ire—everything diverged. I fell away from the centre of the group to its periphery. Before long I made an unnoticed, unfussy exit.

If you’ve had a chance to digest the spring/summer 2025 runways in its entirety, you’d quickly notice an array of sheer outfits relating to an overarching theme around the softness of a woman’s inherent power. Nicole Phelps explained it best: “You don’t have to renounce your strength to be feminine.” Billowing, floaty, and bubbled silhouettes took the forefront, infusing the audience with a sense of otherworldly delight. But, these aren’t the bubble-hem basics of yesteryear—instead, these ethereal pieces remain grounded in strength. Chiffons, tulles, sheer organza, and frothy, cascading silks aren’t afraid to take up space.

A sense of wonder cascaded down the catwalks. At Khaite, chiffons and structured silks seemed suspended. For Alaïa, Mulier sent out models cast in sculptural, soft shapes, snapped onto the body like a magnet. And, at Ashlyn, peplums were decorated, gathered, and draped materials. And although we at Vogue easily fell in love with the fanciful notes showcased, we wondered: how would this be worn in real life? You’ve come to the right place because we have the answers.

The key is to combine the unlikely. Wear Mango’s chiffon mini dress over a pair of laid-back, wide-leg trousers. Tuck a button-up shirt into a semi-sheer midiskirt. Add ballet flats and basket bags to billowy dresses. And, ground a tulle blouse with sporty sneakers. Ahead, are some ethereal spring sheer outfits to recreate.

The Tulle Top

Christopher Esber’s T-shirt is unlike any other it is draped with a veil of silky texture. Turn it into an off-duty moment by tucking it into a balloon-hem midiskirt and adding sporty sneakers.

Sonora veiled short-sleeve t-shirt

Bergdorf Goodman

₹ 65,000.00

suede-trimmed leather sneakers

The Semi-Sheer Button-Up

No matter the varying personal styles, we all have come to own a plethora of different button-up shirts—whether striped or classic white. Take note of the spring/summer runways with a red organza option from The Frankie Shop. Add warm-weather accessories, like Madewell’s latest basket bag, and Massimo Dutti’s leopard sandals.

Peri silk-blend organza shirt

Net-a-porter

₹ 20,500.00

Irene straight silk maxi skirt

Bergdorf Goodman

₹ 79,000.00

animal-print heeled sandals

Massimo Dutti

₹ 18,000.00

The Chiffon Mini Dress

While we adore this idyllic mini dress (made from layers of chiffon) as an evening wear look, it can also be worn in the daytime over linen trousers.

Gala silk and linen-blend wide-leg pants

Net-a-porter

₹ 1,19,000.00

satin wedge sandals

Net-a-porter

₹ 1,15,000.00

The Sheer Skirt

There are plenty of ways to style a sheer skirt for spring—balance them out with wardrobe essentials, like button-up shirts, tees, and blazers. Complement the color of this mocha mousse find with chocolate brown stripes.

Peri silk-blend organza midi skirt

Net-a-porter

₹ 14,500.00

mesh water flats

Bergdorf Goodman

₹ 59,000.00

The Billowy Cape

The cape is often seen as a winter-appropriate topper, but we’re taking it into the warmer months thanks to silky options that dance around the body. Own the night, or day, by wearing yours with pleated trousers and flip-flops.

mulberry silk cape

Massimo Dutti

₹ 14,000.00

Saionara jelly PVC flip flops

Net-a-porter

₹ 18,500.00

leather-trimmed suede tote

Net-a-porter

₹ 1,19,000.00

Sbiru pleated wool wide-leg pants

Net-a-porter

₹ 31,000.00

The Organza Dress

This sleeveless dress from Lafayette 148 New York features an undulating handkerchief hemline made from layers of sweeping silk—a dress that goes hand-in-hand with the airy femininity of now. Bring yours back to earth with a mesh flat from Khaite, and a playful basket tote from Hunting Season.

sleeveless silk organza dress

Nordstrom

₹ 1,99,800.00

leather-trimmed raffia tote

Net-a-porter

₹ 45,000.00

The Silk Blouse

Tired of your pussy-bow blouses and simple tops? Mango is here to add fantasy back into your rotation. Let the asymmetric neckline and semi-sheer fabric do the talking, and pair with easy wide-leg jeans from EB Denim and snakeskin ballet flats from Dear Frances.

Enzo mid-rise carpenter wide leg

Winter Balla snakeskin-print leather ballet flats

Bergdorf Goodman

₹ 54,000.00

The Georgette Pant

Peter Mulier was one of the first designers to send models down the runway in floaty yet sculptural pants, and the spring/summer iteration is lighter in fabric and in hue. Go full butter with a complimentary tank top from Khaite. Add whimsy with a woven tote and jelly sandals.

pleated georgette peplum tapered pants

Net-a-porter

₹ 3,10,000.00

braided leather shoulder bag

Massimo Duttti

₹ 49,000.00

The Floral Silk Skirt and Layered Top

For the maximalist, more is more is more! And the ethereal trend is the perfect place to layer on the goodness. Pair layered squares of silky organza (found in Khaite’s top), with Loewe’s flouncy floral skirt. Instead of opting for minimalist accessories, go bold with Dries Van Noten and Cult Gaia.

Virgo leather asymmetrical sandals

Bergdorf Goodman

₹ 77,000.00

The Caldera leather clutch bag

Bergdorf Goodman

₹ 59,800.00

The Fluid Pant

Yes, sheer pants can be worn in real life—when styled correctly, of course. Before adding your preppy knit and cool-girl accessories, add a boxer brief or a bodysuit.

wool polo shirt

Net-a-porter

₹ 24,500.00

leather flip flop kitten heels

Bergdorf Goodman

₹ 45,000.00

Shop more sheer, tulle and organza fashion:

Eau draped top

Bergdorf Goodman

₹ 85,500.00

Harmony draped organza shirtdress

Nordstrom

₹ 1,30,000.00

Peri silk-blend organza shirt

Net-a-porter

₹ 20,500.00

Sissy silk-organza midi dress

Net-a-porter

₹ 1,99,500.00

Sylkie silk organza midi skirt

Bergdorf Goodman

₹ 59,500.00

This story first appeared on Vogue.com

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The colours have settled, the celebrations are over, and your camera roll is proof of a Holi well-played. But while the festivities may have ended, your skin and hair are still dealing with the aftermath—stubborn stains, dryness, and that telltale post-Holi itch. Between prolonged sun exposure, synthetic pigments, and endless splashes of water, your skin’s moisture barrier takes a hit, and your hair isn’t far behind.

“The chemicals in colours combined with prolonged exposure to water and sun can strip your skin off its natural oils, leading to dryness. It can also cause irritation, itching, and allergic reactions, especially in individuals with sensitive skin,” explains Dr Niketa Sonavane, founder of Ambrosia Aesthetics. And while your instinct might be to scrub everything off in one go, an aggressive cleanse can do more harm than good.

That’s why what you do after Holi is just as important as your pre-festival prep. Recovery is a ritual, not a rinse and here’s exactly how to do it—expert-approved.

Body & face

Start with cleansing

Begin with cleansing the colour from your skin. “Use a gentle, oil-based cleanser to remove colours without stripping the skin’s natural oils,” explains Dr Chytra Anand, founder, Kosmoderma & SkinQ. According to Dr Sonavane any mild, hydrating cleanser too will help remove colour residue and impurities from the skin. If you’re looking for a natural cleanser, Dr Anand recommends mixing gram flour, water, and turmeric into a paste, and gently rubbing the mixture on to your skin.

Try:

Minimalist Oat Extract Gentle Cleanser

Sebamed Liquid Face & Body Wash

Exfoliate

The colours mixed with your skin’s natural oils, dirt, sweat, water, and other impurities, can travel deep into your pores and clog them. To combat this, Dr Sonavane recommends exfoliating the skin thoroughly once after cleansing. “Use a gentle exfoliating scrub to slough off dead skin cells and to unclog pores—this will also help remove any lingering colour particles,” she says.

Try:

SHISEIDO Waso Soft+Cushy Polisher

Nyveda Boost My Glow Radiance Activating Sugar Scrub

Mask up

Apply a soothing face mask with ingredients like aloe vera, cucumber or yoghurt to hydrate the skin. Dr Anand recommends mixing cucumber juice with aloe vera gel to help calm irritated skin.

Moisturise

Post-Holi skin can get dry and dehydrated, therefore both experts recommend finishing off your routine with a rich, nourishing moisturiser. “I’d suggest starting with a hydrating toner to restore the skin’s pH balance, and then apply a generous amount of moisturiser to soothe and hydrate the skin,” adds Dr Anand.

“Using ‘I’ statements is always a winning tactic to communicate your needs clearly without waffling,” Dr. Shabazz says. Try: “In the future, I’d appreciate it if you didn’t cancel so last second,” instead of “Sorry to be a nag, but would you be able to give me a heads up next time?” Or, “Actually, I’d prefer to split the bill based on what we each ordered” versus “Maybe we could divide it this way? I don’t know—up to you!”

3. Resist the urge to overexplain

It’s easy to feel like you need a laundry list of justifications to stand your ground. However, both experts say it’s okay (encouraged, even) to keep your response short, sweet and to the point. “Overexplaining can actually dilute your message, make you seem less assertive and invite room for debate, pushback and negotiation,” Dr. Rubenstein says. “Being concise, on the other hand, reinforces that your choice is firm.”

So rather than offering a long-winded reason for turning down a blind date (because you don’t find them attractive, you’re still getting over your ex, you’re already seeing someone), try, “I’m not available, but thank you for asking.” Or if you want your doctor to suggest more alternatives to some scary-sounding medication, simply say “I’d like to know about my other options,” rather than, “Oh, I’m not sure…. I’ve read some scary stuff on Reddit….” The less you justify, the more final your statement sounds.

4. Blend your assertiveness with a touch of positivity

On that note…being concise doesn’t mean being a total jerk either. If flat-out saying “no” or “I want this” feels overwhelming or curt (especially with a close friend, colleague or family member), Dr. Rubenstein suggests “softening” your assertiveness by adding a positive twist at the end. For example, expressing gratitude—“I’m going to leave soon, but I had a great time!”—can help you get your point across kindly without watering down your message, she says.

Another option? Dr. Shabazz suggests offering an alternative. So instead of bluntly responding with, “Nah, I’m good,” you can say what you are willing to do: “I can’t babysit your kids this weekend, but I can watch them for a few hours on Friday night,” or, “I won’t be drinking alcohol, but I’ll still hang with you at the bar.” That way, you’re being clear about your boundaries—and without burning any bridges.

5. Don’t interpret discomfort as proof you did something wrong

Guilt—that nagging Ugh, I feel bad. Did I screw up?—is a powerful force that can make asserting yourself feel like a bad thing. However, “it’s a natural response when you set boundaries,” Dr. Rubenstein explains—not proof that you’re being selfish or unkind. “It’s simply your alarm system reacting to change,” especially if you’re not used to prioritising yourself.

Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Saawariya unfolds in a universe bathed almost entirely in blue, lending it a dreamlike, otherworldly quality. Inspired by Fyodor Dostoevsky’s 1848 short story White Nights, the film follows an artist’s longing for an unattainable love, mirroring its melancholic, fairytale aesthetic. With ornate sets, flowing fabrics and a painterly approach to light, Saawariya is an ode to unfulfilled romance, wrapped in Bhansali’s signature visual opulence.

Available to rent on Prime Video

Dev.D (2009)

The rulebook says monochrome is clean, effortless, and understated, but lately, it’s been anything but. Think high-contrast pairings, sculptural shapes, and opulent details—the black-and-white palette took on a more maximalist spirit in the best fashion looks of the week. Because while life isn’t black and white, your outfit can be, as showcased by celebrities like Deepika Padukone, Kriti Sanon, Lalisa and more.

Delivering front-row dressing at its finest, Deepika Padukone made a statement at Louis Vuitton’s Fall 2025 show during Paris Fashion Week. She played with contrast, pairing a structured white coat with sharp lapels against sheer black leggings. A wide-brimmed white hat and black leather gloves added a vintage flair, while pointed-toe pumps and a sleek top-handle bag completed the look. Serving a masterclass in monochrome moment, she proved that black and white is anything but basic.

Sharing the same space, Lisa of the Korean girl group Blackpink redefined Parisian chic in an all-black Louis Vuitton ensemble that played with structure and drape. The cleverly tailored layers, voluminous sleeves, and gilded details added depth to the monochrome moment, while her tousled waves and soft glam complemented her look perfectly.

For the IIFA 2025 Awards, Kriti Sanon commanded attention in a sculptural white Mark Bumgarner gown. The strapless white gown featured a sleek, form-fitting bodice punctuated by asymmetric cutouts and coiled fabric details that lent a futuristic look. The mermaid-style skirt flared out with just the right amount of drama, transforming the ensemble into a moving statement.

Simone Ashley turned the sidewalk into her personal runway, stepping out in a sleek black dress. The sleeveless number featured a cowl-style halter neckline, a daring open back, and a mix of textures—faux leather on the bodice transitioning into a sculpted pencil-fit silhouette. A black Hermès Kelly belt cinched her waist, while silver hoop earrings added a hint of shimmer. Finally, dark sunglasses and heeled black mules sealed the look, proving that details matter.

Recently, Tamannaah Bhatia turned heads in a striking BlONI Atelier creation—an architectural black fishtail gown punctuated by bold red sculptural accents at the neckline and shoulders. The sleek, form-fitting silhouette extended into a dramatic floor-grazing finish, balancing structure with fluidity for an undeniably commanding presence.

The prints extended to her beach clothes. Panday’s sarong had swirls of blue. She balanced the hight-octane resort wear with laid-back tank tops, bandana tops, and bathing suits in primary colours. The highlights of Panday’s downtime, however, were her accessories and high-on-blush freckled skin. Think her monogram waist-chain from Chanel styled over her draped high-slit skirt, an opal stone ring or her crab-studs from Chanel’s 2024/25 cruise collection inspired by the coastal town of Marseille.

Instagram.com/@ananyapanday

Instagram.com/@ananyapanday

Instagram.com/@ananyapanday

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From Vogue‘s fashion desk:

“Ananya Panday’s latest beach holiday wardrobe is a nostalgic ode to the early 2000s style, and it’s everything we’ve been craving. From her striking silver lame dress that reads as relaxed glam to her white tank paired with a printed skirt and playful Chanel crab earrings, Ananya’s looks are easy, breezy, and on-point for this season. The pièce de résistance? That Chanel bandeau top with a bikini. To make this your own, mix high-end accessories with relaxed pieces—think a tailored, oversized white shirt over a bikini, vintage-inspired sunglasses, and chunky coral jewelry for the perfect blend of playful and polished. Don’t forget to layer with fun, beachy textures like crochet or linen for that elevated vibe. To complete the look, opt for a bright statement tote bag and comfortable, colorful strappy sandals. As summer heats up, packing a stylish getaway wardrobe isn’t just a necessity—it’s a flex,” says Divya Balakrishnan, Vogue India’s Associate Fashion Editor.

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