Posts in category: Life Style

Blame it on Chemena Kamali. The resurgence of the clog does predate her arrival in the creative director’s chair at Chloé, but the designer’s wafty dresses, lace bralettes and bloomers have certainly done nothing to quell the fashion set’s renewed appetite for all things boho.

Her new proposition for the house – introduced for her autumn/winter 2024 debut – memorably included stompy ’70s clogs as well as daintier heel hybrids, and the shoe has been a recurring theme on runways (and the high street) ever since. Among the brands championing the clog for spring 2025: free-spirited favourites like Ulla Johnson and Etro, but also less boho-inflected brands like Hermès – whose studded Kos clog is an update on the coveted Chypre sandal – and Miu Miu.

Miu Miu primavera-verano 2025.

Ulla Johnson primavera-verano 2025.

An ideal transitional shoe, the street-style set has naturally picked up the trend and run with it, teaming clogs that a San Francisco art teacher would approve of with everything from minidresses and socks to tracksuit bottoms. The traditional, nostalgic wooden clog (think Swedish Hasbeens) is always a good first port of call. Still, designers and brands are reimagining the shoe in fresh ways, too, from open-toe styles to unexpected colours or materials.

Hermès primavera-verano 2025.

Chloé primavera-verano 2025.

Jeremy Moeller/Getty Images

Sandalias con suela de madera

Zuecos

Isabel Marant, ₹ 24,500

This story first appeared on Vogue Spain

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How to style long blouses with flared jeans inspired by the 70s

Embracing white as the temperatures rise is a no-brainer. Whether it’s the classic poplin shirt, a pair of comfy jeans or a linen slip dress, white is a summer staple that can sail you through any event. But Madhuri Dixit Nene is making the classic white sari a hero this season, dressed in a romantic drape by péro.

Her understated sari showcased a fuss-free half and half silhouette in a soft, flowing fabric. The pleats of the handloom were left bereft of embellishments, while the pallu was embroidered with delicate red and pink roses. A halter neck blouse with a key-hole open back completed her set.

A pair of pearl drops from Tara Fine Jewellery and statement rings by Joolry made for her accessories. The veteran actor pulled out all stops to elevate the romanticism of her ensemble with a side-parted ponytail adorned with a beautiful pearl-encrusted bow.

The rebellious writer has blazed a path in a rural Muslim community that most do not understand. She attended university when most of her peers were tying the knot in their teens, married for love at 26, became a reporter for the award-winning vernacular paper Lankesh Patrike, then an activist in several protest literary circles including Bandaya Sahitya and eventually an advocate; not to miss her two terms in the municipal council. The daunting prospect of owning her writerly voice only came to her through a crisis.

Upon graduating, Mushtaq was ready to embark on her journey to teach, explore and write. But it was marriage that came tumbling down on her dreams like a ton of bricks. “I had always wanted to write but had nothing to write because suddenly, after a love marriage, I was told to wear a burqa and dedicate myself to domestic work. I became a mother suffering from postpartum depression at 29.”

Finding marriage, motherhood and domesticity against the very fibre of her being, Mushtaq chose a radical solution. “One day, I doused myself with white petrol kept in a can at home to clean watches since my in-laws had a watch-cum-spectacle shop,” she recalls. “With a matchbox in my hand and ready to strike, it was my husband, who I had married for love, who clung to me and kept our three-month-old daughter at my feet, telling me to stop.”

In ‘Heart Lamp’, the eponymous short story, Banu Mushtaq concludes the incident much more poetically for Mehrun, who, drenched in kerosene, is interrupted by her adolescent daughter and the baby placed on the floor. “She picked up the baby and pulled Salma, her young daughter, to her chest, feeling as if she was being comforted, touched and understood by a friend. All she could say was ‘Forgive me, my darling.’”

Heart Lamp, published by Penguin Random House India

The difference may seem subtle, but according to Higgins, it’s pretty powerful. “The language you use matters in helping you approach the situation with more clarity,” she explains. “And taking a break in a relationship can imply something is fundamentally broken or disjointed, which might make it feel more final and negative than it actually is.” Space, on the other hand, sounds a lot more neutral: It signals that you’re intentionally giving each other room to breathe and reflect—something that even the healthiest of couples need occasionally.

2. Consider the goals of your temporary reset early on

Basically, why do you even want to take a break in the first place? Are you trying to figure out if you can forgive your SO for emotionally cheating? Do you need space to work through personal challenges, like deep-seated insecurities or an unhealthy relationship with alcohol, without the added responsibilities of a partnership? Or maybe you’ve both been feeling disconnected lately, so you’re hoping that a little time apart will help you reconnect—or confirm you’re better off going your separate ways.

Being clear about your goals from the start can give your break more direction, structure and purpose beyond delaying a breakup, Higgins says. Without that intention, you might end up spending the whole time…waiting for the other person to text you back.

3. Decide how long the break will last up-front

According to Farrell, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer for how long a relationship break should be. For some a few days are enough to gain perspective, while others may need weeks or even months. What’s important is having an end date. “Otherwise, the break may extend indefinitely, which is more indicative of avoidance rather than a genuine attempt to strengthen or reevaluate the relationship,” Farrell says.

The good news is, you’re free to adjust the timeline of your temporary separation if needed—simply chat with your partner ahead of time about how you’ll touch base about potential changes. On that note….

4. Establish a few ground rules before you hit pause

Are you going to stay exclusive or hook up with other people? Will you check in occasionally or maintain radio silence for the entire month? Too often someone impulsively declares a break without addressing the details, which “results in confusion, misunderstandings, resentment and hurt feelings,” Farrell explains. That’s why both therapists suggest establishing clear expectations beforehand to avoid messy, dramatic surprises down the line.

There’s nothing like a stroke of liner in a fun colour for an unexpected beauty moment—and the best eyeliner shades are an easy way to achieve that. But where do you begin with a rainbow spectrum of shades to choose from? While there are no hard-and-fast rules for makeup, referencing the colour wheel is always a good place to start (and perhaps a nostalgic reminder of grade school art class). “Contrasting your eyeliner to enhance your eye colour is an easy trick to bring attention to your eyes,” says Los Angeles-based makeup artist Beau Nelson. Long story short, a complimentary colour creates a strong visual impact.

Once you’ve determined the colour you want, it’s time to choose your actual liner. Professional makeup artist Anastasia Vavina recommends a pencil over a liquid liner when getting playful. “Pencils allow for more application control than liquid eyeliners. You can stay precise or easily achieve a smoked-out look,” Vavina explains, adding that mistakes can also be easily blended and buffed with creamy pencil formulas. Since we’re not the colour theory masters, we tapped four pros to share their tips and tricks for playing up eye colour—and which of the best eyeliner shades to choose to make your gaze pop.

The best eyeliner shades for brown eyes

“Brown eyes are already neutral, so you can really play with colour on brown eyes,” explains Katie Jane Hughes, who gravitates toward jewel-toned eyeliners for brown-eyed clients (and regularly reaches for Glossier’s eyeliner pencil in the shade Rococo). When in doubt Hughes says to think rich berry tones, deep purples, and emerald greens. For a more subtle approach, consider makeup artist Tasha Reiko Brown’s go-to eye-brightening strategy: A gold eyeliner dabbed on the inner corners. “It catches the warm light of brown eyes [for extra sparkle],” she says.

The best eyeliner shades for blue eyes

Thinking back to the trust colour wheel, Nelson reminds us that the contrasting colour to blue is yellow. Rather than taking that as a literal interpretation, he leans towards more flaxen colours. “Golden browns, bronzes, and coppers all set blue eyes off nicely,” he says. Hughes agrees and leans towards warm hues like rusty orange to make all variations of ocean eyes (as Billie Eilish might say) truly stand out.

The best eyeliner shades for hazel eyes

With tones of green, gold, and brown, hazel eyes are inherently dimensional—and there are many different approaches one can take with eyeliners to emphasize their multifaceted irises. “Purples, pinks, burgundies, and cranberries bring out the green tones in hazel eyes,” says Nelson. For Hughes, a rich teal supplies a cool contrast, while for Brown, taking a tone-on-tone approach with an emerald green “really makes the colours [of Hazel eyes] jump.”

Tania Shroff, too, was swayed by its beauty for Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant’s wedding celebrations in July 2024. For one of the events, the model and social media influencer wore a lehenga rendition of Mandanna’s look. Barring the silhouette, her lehenga also echoed the same crafts on its pink silk fabric.

For the last leg of the same wedding, Janhvi Kapoor chose peacock-inspired lehenga by Manish Malhotra. The 3D look featured intricate embroidery with sequins and Swarovski crystals in a vibrant peacock motif, a crystal-encrusted blouse and tonal dupatta. “I knew I wanted to wear things that have a personal meaning. Everywhere you look in Jamnagar, you will be greeted by a beautifully preening peacock or two, or three; or 10. And so what started as a peacock coloured lehenga, ended up as a full on peacock feather skirt,” Kapoor wrote about her ensemble that was accessorised with emeralds.

Riding off into the sunset on horseback—does it get more ‘happily ever after’ than this? Malhotra posted a picture with a heartfelt caption: “It’s not the journey or the destination it’s the company that matters, Thank you for being the best partner on this crazy ride called life.
#HappyAnniversaryMyLove ❤️😘”

July 2024: Wimbledon together

An important relationship milestone is attending your first live game together. Advani and Malhotra’s moment came at Wimbledon last year. “I have to to (sic) be honest I was recently introduced to tennis by my husband and this has been the best experience ever! @wimbledon live, centre court, strawberries and cream and a fabulous game – doesn’t get better! 🎾🍓🤵🏻‍♀️👨‍💼💯✔️,” Advani posted.

August 2024: Family celebrations

When it comes to Indian Clothes, few garments are as iconic and versatile as the Kurta Pajama for Men. Whether you’re attending a wedding, a festival, or a casual get-together, the Kurta Pajama is the go-to choice for comfort, style, and tradition. However, like any fashion item, choosing the perfect Indian outfit depends on understanding your body type and personal style.

At Nihal Fashions, we’re passionate about helping you look your best while staying true to your roots. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to choose the perfect Kurta Pajama for Men based on your body shape and share some tips to make sure you rock this timeless attire like a pro.

Why the Right Kurta Pajama Matters

The Kurta Pajama is a classic element of Indian Dresses, and when styled right, it can elevate your appearance to a whole new level. When you wear a Kurta Pajama, you don’t just embrace comfort but also a piece of culture and tradition.

However, not all Indian Outfits are designed to fit everyone in the same way. Just like with any piece of clothing, finding the right fit and style is key to looking and feeling good. If you choose the wrong fit or style, you might end up hiding your strengths or accentuating the wrong features.

Step 1: Understand Your Body Type

Before you pick out a Kurta Pajama, it’s essential to understand your body type. Not all cuts, styles, and fabrics will look flattering on everyone, so recognizing your shape will help you select the perfect outfit.

Here are the most common body types and tips on how to choose the right Indian Clothes for each one:

1. The Tall and Lean (Rectangular Body Type)

If you’re tall and lean, with a straight, rectangular body shape, you can go for a Kurta Pajama that adds some structure to your frame. This body type can carry off almost any style of Kurta, but some styles work better than others.

• Fit: Choose a Kurta that is slightly fitted or has a tapered cut to give you some shape, but avoid anything too baggy or loose. A straight-cut Kurta will work well, but something with slight side slits or a slim-fit design will highlight your lean silhouette.
• Length: A slightly longer Kurta (just above or at the knee) will enhance your proportions and make you look more balanced. Make sure the length of the Kurta Pajama is just right, as overly long kurtas can drown your frame.
• Style: Go for kurtas with intricate detailing or embroidery around the chest or shoulders to add some volume and dimension to your upper body.
• Fabric: Light fabrics like cotton or linen work best for this body type. Avoid overly thick fabrics as they may add bulk and make you look even leaner.

2. The Stocky or Broad-Shouldered (Inverted Triangle Body Type)

If you have broad shoulders and a wider upper body with a narrower waist and hips, your goal is to balance your proportions.

• Fit: Avoid anything too tight around the chest and shoulders, as this can accentuate your upper body and make you look disproportionate. Instead, go for kurtas with a loose, comfortable fit that provides more room around the upper body. A slightly A-line cut can be a great option as it creates a balanced appearance.
• Length: Short to mid-length kurtas work best, especially if you’re looking to draw attention to your legs. Avoid long kurtas, as they can make your torso look even wider.
• Style: Experiment with vertical stripes or minimalistic designs that direct attention downwards and elongate your body. V-neck or mandarin collars are also great choices for creating a slimmer neckline.
• Fabric: Avoid heavy fabrics like velvet or wool, as they can add volume. Instead, choose lighter, breathable fabrics like cotton, silk, or blended materials that won’t overwhelm your frame.

3. The Curvy or Full-Body (Oval Body Type)

If you have a rounder frame with fullness around your stomach, hips, and chest, the key is to choose a Kurta Pajama that creates a streamlined, elongated silhouette.

• Fit: Go for kurtas that are not too tight or too loose. A slightly fitted, straight-cut Kurta with side slits will help create an illusion of a longer, leaner figure. Avoid boxy cuts, as they may make you look broader.
• Length: Opt for kurtas that end just above your knees or at mid-thigh to avoid drawing attention to your midsection. Longer kurtas can also work if paired with slimmer pants or churidars.
• Style: Choose kurtas with vertical lines, minimal embroidery, or clean lines to help elongate the body. Avoid heavy embroidery or large prints on the stomach area, as they can make the area look wider.
• Fabric: Soft, flowing fabrics like georgette, crepe, and cotton will work best. Stay away from stiff materials like brocade or thick silk, as they can add extra bulk to your frame.

4. The Short or Petite (Triangle Body Type)

If you’re on the shorter side with a narrower build, you’ll want to select a Kurta Pajama that elongates your body and gives you a tall, slim look.

• Fit: A more tailored or fitted Kurta will accentuate your frame and make you look taller. Avoid long, flowing kurtas that may overwhelm your frame.
• Length: The ideal length for a shorter man is a mid-length Kurta that hits around the knee. A slightly shorter Kurta will make you appear taller and give you a more youthful appearance.
• Style: Go for simpler kurtas with less bulk and more streamlined details. High collars and short sleeves can help add to the effect of lengthening your body.
• Fabric: Stick to lightweight fabrics like cotton, linen, or chiffon, which won’t weigh you down. Avoid heavy, thick fabrics like wool and brocade.

Step 2: Consider the Occasion

While choosing the right Kurta Pajama depends on your body type, it also depends on where you’re planning to wear it.

• For Weddings and Formal Events: Opt for kurtas with intricate embroidery or embellishments. Rich fabrics like silk, velvet, and brocade are perfect for these occasions. Pair with a churidar or straight pants for a sharp look.
• For Casual Gatherings: If you’re attending a casual event or a family function, choose a lighter Indian outfit like a plain cotton Kurta. A simple design with minimal detailing, paired with relaxed pants, will keep you comfortable yet stylish.
• For Festivals and Celebrations: For festive occasions like Diwali or Eid, you can experiment with bright, bold colours or even a combination of contrasting colours. Light embroidery, rich colours, and festive prints can make you stand out while keeping you in the spirit of celebration.

Step 3: Experiment with Accessories

Accessories are an essential part of any Indian outfit. Here are a few tips to accessorize your Kurta Pajama for maximum effect:

• Footwear: Pair your Kurta Pajama for Men with traditional footwear like mojaris or juttis for a complete ethnic look. For a modern twist, loafers or stylish sneakers can also complement your ensemble.
• Jewellery: A simple brooch or a necklace can add a touch of class. For a more traditional look, consider a turban pin, cufflinks, or a watch.
• Scarves & Stoles: A simple scarf or dupatta can add elegance to your look. Choose one with a subtle texture or light embroidery that complements your Kurta.

Conclusion: Feel Confident in Your Kurta Pajama

Choosing the right Kurta Pajama for Men based on your body type and style preferences is all about finding a balance between comfort and style. When you dress according to your body type, you not only look better but also feel more confident in your attire. Whether you’re attending a wedding, a festival, or a casual outing, the Kurta Pajama remains a timeless choice for any occasion. At Nihal Fashions, we offer a wide range of styles and fabrics for every body type, ensuring you always find the perfect fit. So, next time you’re looking to rock a Kurta Pajama, keep these tips in mind and enjoy a truly stylish experience that celebrates your unique style!

In March 2024, Bhatt attended the Gucci Ancora launch in Mumbai, wearing a black pantsuit, and yet again accessorised with the black Jackie. With a gold statement neckpiece, Bhatt effectively channeled corp-core.

Gucci x Adidas Duffle

For Vogue India, the actor revealed what was in her off-white Gucci x Adidas duffle bag. Relatable as always, Bhatt showed that carrying all your essentials, including an unending supply of hair ties, is the way to go. For her makeup and skincare, the Gucci Ophedia cosmetic case also made an appearance.

Gucci B Shoulder

Alia Bhatt carrying the Gucci B shoulder bag

Manav Manglani

It’s a time of intense celestial activity—February 28’s seven-planet alignment will be followed by the Venus retrograde from March 1 to April 12, 2025. The last time Venus was in retrograde was between July and September 2023 and this year’s retrograde will highlight the cycles and themes that unfolded for you eight years ago. This time, Venus retrograde begins in Aries and concludes in Pisces, marking a symbolic beginning and end with Aries being the initiator of the zodiac wheel and Pisces being the culminating point. Read on to know what the Venus retrograde will bring forward for your zodiac sign.

Aries

Gear up to reclaim your power like never before, Aries. If you’ve obsessed over your treasures like Scrat with his acorns in Ice Age, the universe is likely to shake things up for you. With the retrograde dance beginning in your sign, you may feel all the feels and question your goals, only to come of age on the other side of this seemingly manic time. Remember to redirect your focus inward to get the best results outward.

Taurus

As your home planet slows down, you, too, feel the urge to deflate and huddle up in your cave. Certain decisions, however challenging, are meant to be taken and these must be made, graciously allowing old chapters to close while focusing on the reset the cosmos is bringing your way. A long-term outlook will help you rise above fleeting temptations.

Gemini

Your outgoing persona may feel stifled during this retrograde, but that is only fodder for growth. This is your opportunity to master creation through stillness and release your pulsating life force in ways that uplift you, irrespective of what your environment is compelling you to believe. This is when the cosmos gifts you a dusty old lamp: whether or not you choose to rub it is entirely up to you.

Cancer

You may find yourself in serving others, but in only serving others, you may lose yourself too. Venus comes in hard with revelations about self-worth, making balanced decisions and watering your own tree. Rethinking Long-term financial goals, restructuring your work schedule and taking a chance by releasing the rut that keeps you chained will help you grow.

Leo

Focus is your keyword for the next 42 days. Let go of the hocus pocus and point your wand to the most important things you wish to create. Not all that is broken needs fixing but what would you like to fix in the long run? Choosing your battles and standing your ground are two things you will master on the other side of this retrograde.

Virgo

Are you fixated on tradition or rooted in it? Adaptability, flexibility and steadfastness are unfolding for you as you not only burn away old cords and attachments but also your linear ways of thinking. You may find yourself questioning everything from self-worth to your relationships. How were things then and how are they now? How did they get to this point? What’s the way out? Pause the overthinking and accept bygones as bygones.

Libra

While you may be more action-oriented during this time despite your home planet being in retrograde, you are encouraged to cut through the fog by listening to your intuition. When that feels like a hard thing to do, alternate thinking and creative solutions may save the day. These will come easier when you focus on deep breathing.

Scorpio

Your inner child may be screaming and your old wounds may feel like they’re being split wide open. However, this is your time to let your mind lead over your heart. Clear out the clutter that holds you back and take this as your chance to right the wrongs inflicted upon you; not by dealing the same blow to others, but by nursing yourself.

Sagittarius

Take this time to infuse self-discipline, routine and willpower into your life so that your sleepless nights and fragmented energy realign themselves, bringing you back to your centre. Allow the world to captivate your senses, making you wonder about everything you encounter. At the same time, continue with your efforts to seed something long-term.

Capricorn

You are healing at the very core—an ancestral challenge, a habit you didn’t realise you have, a feeling of lost love or loneliness—but through it, you are rising. Your soul evolves rapidly as you ascend to higher planes of consciousness. Choose wisely all that you wish for, expecting only the best to follow. Remind yourself that there are no consequences, only results.

Aquarius

A new interest may catch your fancy as will life skills like financial planning, investing and charting out your goals. This time will feel abundant and prosperous while also teaching you the importance of balancing your masculine energy (logic, rationale, action and strength) with your feminine energy (creativity, receptivity, intuition and nurturing).

Pisces

As the retrograde dance culminates in your zodiac, you draw from the inner reserves of your creative energy to manifest a life of your liking. Your relationships thrive as you focus on the smallest things that make you feel content. Your fears around security dissolve into thin air as you begin to acknowledge all the ways in which you are looked after by the cosmos.