Posts in category: Life Style

This week’s fashion calendar saw a striking mix of textures and moods across events and galas. Ananya Panday served contemporary Chanel minimalism, while Janhvi Kapoor channelled ’80s Ungaro glamour in Paris. Kareena Kapoor Khan arrived in a black bodycon in Dubai, while Huma Qureshi and Sara Ali Khan closed couture runways. Closer to home, Indianwear found fresh expression in Sanya Malhotra’s cape-draped sari. Whether archival, artisanal or avant-garde, each look stood out for the clarity of its vision and execution.

Kareena Kapoor Khan brought sculptural glamour to Dubai in a sweeping black bodycon gown from Rahul Mishra. The sweetheart neckline gave way to off-shoulder mesh sleeves that extended dramatically past her shoulders, holding their solid structure with black stripes running across each arm. Styled by Rhea Kapoor, her diamond bijoux—oversized solitaires by Mehta & Sons and statement rings by Anjali Bhimrajka Fine Jewels—amplified the gown’s architectural precision. Her centre-parted hair, worn loose, and winged eyeliner added a striking finish.

Navya Naveli Nanda reimagined traditional finery through a crystal-encrusted lens in an Abu Jani Sandeep Khosla set from the Raj collection. Her sheer kurti, churidar and dupatta were covered in thousands of hand-placed crystals arranged in scalloped motifs, marrying European sensibilities with time-honoured Indian silhouettes. Transparent heels and delicate diamond earrings completed the look. Side-parted hair and blush-toned makeup complemented the opulent vibe.

She tells me about her early student days, when she received over-the-top praise for her first poem and her professor told her, “You’re a poet.” She stopped writing and dropped out of the class. “I was just afraid to be a disappointment with the next thing I wrote. I felt like I could only go down from there. I worried that what I’d written was a fluke and that I didn’t actually have real talent.”

Margaret Atwood considers Awad her “literary heir apparent”. If we were considering contenders for “it”—that mysterious talent, charisma, voice, whatever makes someone exceptional—Awad would definitely be in the running. Her work has brought people together in strange ways. “Friends and strangers find each other, people form communities, they even reconnect with family because of Bunny. These are the stories I hear again and again as I go on the road in every city. I love that because ultimately, that book is about love. About the transformative power of love. And so is We Love You, Bunny.”

Art is central to Awad’s life and writing, and it shows. She cites Frankenstein, The Hare’s Bride, Beauty and the Beast, and the works of Shakespeare as inspirations for We Love You, Bunny. We talk about poetry, and she observes, “The strangest thing about poetry is that it’s impossible to sell it. It’s very difficult. People don’t buy it. But when you get married, when you’re dying, in these really incredible moments in your life, these transitional, huge moments, you want a poem. It’s work that allows you to meet the biggest moments in your life. But novel writing is something else.”

She’s already at work on a new novel, a dark romantic bookstore comedy inspired by Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night. Bunny is also being developed as a film. And yes, there will be a third Bunny book. She plays coy at first, “There might be, yes. No, there will be. Oh, there will be.” When I ask if I can guess the next book’s plot, she smiles secretively. “Sure.” Hearing my guess, she smiles wider. “It’s a pretty good one. I’m impressed. That’s all I’ll say.” We would love to tell you, Bunny, but it’s our little secret, K?

They’re securing a last-minute dinner reservation for six. They’re calling the Uber—and double-checking that no one left their phone, ID and wallet behind. They’re confirming the time and place for next week’s hangout in the otherwise quiet group chat. Meet the unsung hero of every social circle: The “mom friend.”

Even if people don’t call them that outright, “this really is one of the most common roles in friendships,” says Christina Ferrari, PsyD, a clinical psychologist based in Miami. The mom of the friend group is the person who organises, plans and keeps things on track. But don’t get it twisted: While being the responsible one in fun social settings sounds like another way of saying you’re uptight, controlling and boring, “they’re the glue that holds the crew together,” as Dr. Ferrari points out—even though their efforts usually go unnoticed. Here are a few classic traits of the ‘mom friend’—and the behind-the-scenes ways they keep everything (and everyone) connected.

1. They’re proactive in making plans happen

Everyone has probably tossed around the vague, “We should hang out soon!” However, it’s the “mom” friend who makes sure it actually happens. According to Dr Ferrari, that might involve wrangling everyone’s schedules until they align, scrolling through endless restaurant reviews to snag the perfect reservation or sending thoughtful day-before reminders so the plan actually sticks. “When hangouts go smoothly, people often assume they just came together,” Dr Ferrari says. “However, this is all a result of the ‘mom’ friend’s emotional, invisible labour, which goes unnoticed until it’s missing.”

2. They’re especially thoughtful and attentive

“The ‘mom’ friend is great at anticipating the group’s needs ahead of time,” says Kimberly Horn, EdD, MSW, psychologist and author of Friends Matter, for Life: Harnessing the 8 Tenets of Dynamic Friendship. “They’re high nurturers and extremely detail-oriented.” For example, they might show up to movie night with extra snacks because they knew someone would get hungry. Or they always remember everyone’s birthdays—and make sure each one feels special with a thoughtful text, card or some other small gesture that says, I see you. These subtle but compassionate acts often go overlooked, but Horn says that for the “mom” friend, they’re always a top priority.

3. They’re reliable, emotional anchors

Whether it’s wise breakup advice at 2am or career guidance to get you closer to a promotion, Dr. Ferrari says the “mom” friend is the one you’ll instinctively turn to (and trust) whenever you need support. They bring steadiness when everything feels uncertain and offer a listening ear for all of your problems without judgment. And much like a parent, they‘ll quietly make themselves available through sweet, “Just thinking about you—is everything okay?” texts or surprise coffee runs when they know you’ve had a bad mental health day.

4. They look out for everyone’s safety

No one wants to be the person reminding everyone to reapply sunscreen or drink water between tequila shots. But the mom friend will—and make it feel less like nagging and more like an act of care.

“Safeguarding is a very underrated but important role in friendships,” Horn points out. It can feel like a buzzkill in the moment, but it takes a surprising amount of intentionality, thoughtfulness and emotional intelligence to make sure no one gets left behind at the bar, or to notice when another friend’s mood is off.

In the world of Indian menswear, a well-fitted kurta pajama can exude elegance, heritage, and refined taste. It’s no surprise that many men gravitate toward sleek, snug silhouettes, especially when selecting traditional Indian menswear for weddings, parties, or cultural festivals. The sharp tailoring and flattering cuts lend themselves well to celebration.

But while fitted styles may look appealing, they aren’t always the best choice for everyday wear. Prolonged use of tight kurta pajamas may come with unexpected health, hygiene, and comfort risks that are easy to overlook in the name of fashion.

At Nihal Fashions, we believe clothing should enhance (not compromise) your lifestyle. Here’s what you need to know about the hidden dangers of wearing tight-fitted kurtas daily and how to strike the perfect balance between form and function.

Restricted Movement and Circulation Issues

Tight kurta pajamas can seriously limit your body’s natural range of motion. Constriction in areas like the chest, shoulders, waist, and thighs can reduce blood flow and increase discomfort during long periods of wear. While the impact may not be immediately noticeable, wearing tight garments daily can lead to cumulative stress on your muscles and nerves.

• Common Effects: Numbness in arms or legs, tingling sensations, or shoulder stiffness.
• Risk Areas: Tight collars, sleeve cuffs, and narrow leg fits are the main culprits. These areas may feel fine at first, but after hours of wear, discomfort often sets in.
• Posture Impact: Restricted movement may alter how you sit, stand, or walk, potentially contributing to long-term posture problems.

While a structured kurta pajama might be appropriate for one-time events like receptions or family photoshoots, it is not built for daily mobility. For frequent use, your Indian men’s clothing should support comfort, not suppress it.

Skin Irritation, Overheating, and Hygiene Risks

Wearing tight kurtas (especially in hot or humid weather) can lead to excessive sweating and reduced airflow. This not only creates discomfort but also raises serious hygiene concerns.

• Friction & Sweat: Constant rubbing against the skin, paired with trapped sweat, can cause rashes, itchiness, and even fungal infections.
• Non-Breathable Fabrics: Synthetic materials like polyester may look polished, but they don’t allow your skin to breathe. Moisture gets locked in, leading to bacterial buildup and unpleasant odors.
• Heat Retention: In summer, tight fits can overheat your body faster, contributing to dehydration, fatigue, or dizziness.

Your skin is your body’s largest organ. Treat it with care by choosing breathable fabrics such as cotton, linen, or blended silks, especially for everyday wear. These materials help maintain optimal skin health while still honoring the elegance of traditional Indian menswear for weddings and beyond.

Long-Term Posture and Musculoskeletal Stress

Most men don’t associate kurtas and pajamas with back pain or joint strain, but poorly fitted garments can play a surprising role in musculoskeletal discomfort.

• Lower Back & Hip Strain: Overly tight pajama pants restrict leg movement and strain the hip flexors. Over time, this can affect your lower back.
• Knee Discomfort: If your pants don’t provide enough flexibility at the knees, sitting or bending may place undue pressure on the joints.
• Shoulder Fatigue: Sleeves that are too tight across the shoulders can limit arm rotation and lead to chronic stiffness.

The consequences may take weeks or even months to appear, but they’re very real. A little extra room in the cut of your pajama or kurta sleeves can go a long way in preventing long-term discomfort.

Compromised Confidence and Energy Levels

Fashion is supposed to make you feel confident, right? Ironically, tight-fitting clothes can have the opposite effect over time. When you’re physically uncomfortable, it’s difficult to remain mentally composed or socially engaged.

• Self-Conscious Adjustments: Constantly adjusting tight collars or tugging at constricted pants is not only distracting, it draws attention and erodes your confidence.
• Physical Fatigue: Clothing that doesn’t let your body move freely can reduce your energy output and make daily tasks feel heavier than they should.
• Mental Drain: When your outfit is a source of discomfort, your mood and productivity may decline throughout the day.

Looking good shouldn’t come at the cost of feeling good. The right fit balances both, and that’s where thoughtful design comes in.

How to Strike the Right Balance

Wearing a kurta pajama doesn’t have to be a choice between beauty and comfort. You can have both if you know what to look for.

1. Fabric First

Choose breathable, skin-friendly fabrics like:

• Cotton: Perfect for daily wear, highly breathable, and easy to care for.
• Silk-Cotton Blends: Elegant with a soft feel, great for semi-formal wear.
• Linen: A top choice for hot climates, allowing maximum airflow.

Avoid thick synthetics unless they’re reserved for short-term, high-style events.

2. Mind the Fit

A “tailored” fit doesn’t mean tight. Look for:

• Slight room around the shoulders and chest for natural breathing.
• Relaxed sleeve cuffs that don’t dig into your wrists.
• Pajama bottoms that allow full knee and hip movement without bunching.

You’ll be surprised how much better you feel in clothes that fit well without squeezing you.

3. Reserve Structure for Special Occasions

For weddings, festivals, or formal photoshoots, it’s fine to go with a sleeker silhouette. Choose from our structured traditional Indian menswear for weddings at Nihal Fashions, designed for short-term elegance without long-term wear.

For daily outfits, shift toward comfort-driven tailoring that honors the same heritage in more breathable forms.

Shop Smart with Nihal Fashions

At Nihal Fashions, we’ve curated a collection of Indian men’s clothing that bridges the gap between tradition and comfort. Whether you’re suiting up for a wedding or choosing breathable daily wear, our designs prioritize both aesthetics and function.

• Tailored Kurta Pajama Sets: Available in a wide range of cuts and sizes to suit every body type.
• Premium Fabric Options: From handwoven cottons to lightweight silks.
• Wedding-Ready Styles: Formal pieces with embroidery, embellishments, and regal detailing.

Our team understands that style should serve your lifestyle, not work against it. That’s why we take pride in offering clothing that moves with you, not against you.

Your Health, Your Style, Your Choice

Wearing tight kurtas every day may not seem like a big deal, but the effects can stack up quickly. From reduced circulation and posture problems to hygiene concerns and energy drains, your daily wear decisions matter.

That doesn’t mean sacrificing elegance or tradition. You just need to make smarter choices.

Start by investing in pieces that are:

• Comfortable for daily wear
• Breathable in all climates
• Thoughtfully designed for modern movement
• Rooted in timeless cultural heritage

Let Nihal Fashions be your guide. Whether you’re shopping for a big celebration or refreshing your weekday wardrobe, you’ll find everything you need to look sharp and feel great.

Shop smarter. Dress better. Feel the difference.

You are a walking glitch in the matrix, Taurus. Now, will you simply take a moment to soak it all in. You think and the Universe moves, you blink and time skips a beat and you take that leap of faith and the cosmos pulls out your safety net. Wow! You really are onto something, my love. Now that you know your little secret to your synchronistic little life, you, why don’t you consider trusting yourself and the cosmos a tad more? Allow the sun to revitalise your entire being and the moon to guide your intuition.

Cosmic tip: Think long term and take action accordingly.

You know what your hidden superpower power, Gemini? Your ability to keep going at something, no matter how long it takes. Once you have your eyes set on your destination, nothing comes in the way of you making your way towards it, not even you. You have shown tremendous courage in your recent past, and your angels, guides and the cosmos are rewarding you deeply and generously.

Cosmic tip: Your fortune is about to turn for the best. Keep going.

You have finally made a choice, Cancer and the divine, the cosmos, your angels and guides are all supporting you. Your next steps are to be led through intuition, not habit. Your plan is to be crafted through your soul not through logic. You are already able to see the future you want, and it feels so comfortable and reassuring in all the best ways. Now this is your time to gain clarity about how you want to manifest and create it. Rest your swords, take some downtime, and then emerge when you are ready. If you can think it, you can craft it.

Cosmic tip: Nature is not perennial, and you are nature.

Soon you will be ready to walk away from all that nonsense that keeps you thinking overtime and working non-stop, even while you crave restful periods. Leo, you may have many options on the table, but are you still looking for something more? Yes, you are. The meaning you are seeking in your life is seldom found where the crowds lead. It is found in quiet, introspective moments when you are with yourself: mind, body and soul. The question remains—are you willing to go where no one in your circles has been before and more importantly, are you willing to meet yourself all over again?

Start with the legs

If you’re new to working out, it’s best to focus on the legs. They are the largest reservoir of muscle mass in the body and also the quickest to deteriorate. In addition, the legs contain a lot of fast-twitch fibres, so training them is vital.

Prioritise intensity over reps

Do reps at a high intensity (quickly) to work the fast-twitch fibres. It is recommended to do a few repetitions, half or less of the maximum you can do, to avoid fatigue. “The key is speed and intensity, because that’s what activates the fast fibres through the nervous system,” says Isidro.

Incorporate rest

Give yourself plenty of time to rest between sets. At a minimum, rest time should be one minute, but two or three minutes between exercises is even better. “You’re fully recovered when you can speak and sing, not just grunt monosyllables,” says Isidro.

Avoid fatigue

“It is essential that the exercise be non-exhausting or fatiguing. When you fatigue, you’re working the slow-twitch fibre and continuing to lose fast-twitch fibres,” says Isidro. “It’s better to do a few exercises well and repeat them a couple of times. Stop before fatigue sets in.”

Start small

Start with short workout sessions that last five to 15 minutes. Do them in circuit format, alternating exercises with breaks. “We all have 10 minutes a day if we prioritise. Forget your previous experience – many of us think that exercise should be tiring and painful [in order] to work. If we do less, we enjoy it more and see the benefits, creating a positive ripple effect.”

Breathe right

Working the respiratory muscles is also essential, because it improves recovery and endurance. Take long, full breaths, breathing into the diaphragm.

When, where and how

According to Isidro, the best time to exercise is in the morning. “This stimulates the sympathetic system early, which makes it easier for the parasympathetic system to be stimulated in the evening, improving sleep.” If possible, exercise outdoors, because contact with nature and socialisation have a direct and positive effect on health.

You don’t need a gym to get the benefits. Working out with your own body weight can be really effective. “The important thing is that the exercises are adapted to your fitness level, so that you can repeat and maintain them over time,” Isidro says. “And if you can do them in a group or with friends, even better. Socialising motivates, engages, and, as studies show, lengthens life.”

How to test your muscle function

Several simple tests can be done at home in order to check your current strength level and to show you where we may need to improve. “The important thing about these tests is not only to know where we are, but also to measure how we are progressing,” notes Isidro. “Sometimes the change is perceived in how we feel, but other times we need objective data, and these are very simple tools that allow us to tangibly see how strength training is helping us improve.” Below, some of those tests:

This 100-day pop-up promises to be an immersive experience for patrons, where there is a new concept to savour and explore every 30 days. Conceptualised by Eaterrati, a food and drink platform in collaboration with PORT Kitchen & Bar tucked away in Mahalaxmi, the pop-up unfolds in layers with plates and cocktails with a twist. This month features a festive edit with chef Yash Chhabria doing a selection of bonbons based on stereotypes in everyone’s social circles—think boozy options along with Indian burfi-inspired ones, from mezcal and honey to raspberry-infused gin and matcha, walnut halwa and masala chai caramel.

Address: Shakti Mills Lane, Lower Parel, Mumbai, Tel: 09833897317

The Oberoi, Mumbai x Odette Singapore (pop-up)

The Singapore-based three Michelin-starred modern French restaurant is popping up at Vetro at The Oberoi, Mumbai for two exclusive evenings, as well as at Wabi Sabi at The Oberoi, Bengaluru. Guided by award-winning chef Julien Royer, the exclusive menu includes highlights such as mangrove crab with horseradish, nashi pear and kristal caviar, avocado gourmandise with finger lime and coriander, and Kyoto miso endive with sake butter and yuzu, among other refined plates—all paired with exceptional wines.

Leopard print loafers are a timeless wardrobe staple reinvented for this season, combining classic style with a bold, trendy touch. This year, moccasins in leopard bring elegance and a sharp edge to any outfit.

Supermodels Gigi Hadid, Hailey Bieber, and Cindy Bruna have already embraced the trend. Whether styled in elegant silhouettes or casual looks, leopard print cleverly elevates their ensembles. Gigi Hadid pairs leopard loafers with a colourful outfit, combining a cardigan, a satin shirt and low-rise jeans, accessorised with layered necklaces, a multi-tone bag and pink socks. Hailey Bieber opts for a sporty-chic take, styling hers with white socks, an oversized leather jacket, a crisp T-shirt, black shorts and a matching cap.

Cindy Bruna adopted moccasins in a chocolate silhouette that paired with a white shirt and a leopard bag.

Which leopard print loafers to choose this autumn?

Saint Laurent – Leopard Print Loafers

Versace – medusa ’95 loafers with leopard pattern

Isabel Marant – Fitza Leopard Print Loafers

Christian Louboutin – patent leather penny loafers

This story first appeared on Vogue.fr.

Also read:

From embellished to cropped, 6 blazer styles making power dressing feel new again

Vogue-approved shoes that are perfect for the office

7 ways celebrities are styling jeans with sneakers, loafers and more

Diwali, additionally called the festival of lights, is a good reason to have a good time and celebrate an amazing time. The gathering consists of family, friends, yummy food, and adorable attire. Get the most out of Diwali via means of dressing in traditional, elegant, and comfortable attire. New outfits are bought by people of every age so as to feel good about themselves and appear their best look. To make Diwali a blissful occasion, youngsters have to wear elegant but comfortable attire.

Kids experience burning diyas, decorating the house, and making rangoli for Diwali, which celebrates the right winning over evil and Lord Rama returning to Ayodhya after fourteen years. They should appear appropriate and experienced, confident on this holy day.

When selecting Diwali outfit for girl kids, it`s vital not to forget modern ethnic clothing. These garments should be elegant and comfortable. The clothes have to improve confidence and make your daughter seem lovely. These outfits have to combine cultural signatures with current silhouettes or textiles. This Diwali birthday party is best because it blends modern and traditional. Children will experience things related to their lifestyle through wearing traditional clothing.

Your little princess has to wear bright, lovely garments on Diwali to experience the festivities.

On Diwali, your girl should look beautiful. What she wears will make her look and feel great. It should be unique ethnic clothes with a stylish twist. This list of Diwali outfit ideas for girls can help your little princess look her best.

1. Sharara

The shape of a sharara is very beautiful and unique in traditional clothes. It just means a pair of loose, wide pants worn with a kurta or some other kind of top. They`ve been more famous in recent years because they are comfortable, flexible, and smooth to style. They will make your lady confident and gorgeous.

There are different kinds of shararas. Some are written, while others are colored. Prints on shararas, like the Floral Sharara Set with Dupatta, give ethnic clothes a new look. As you can see, the Floral Sharara with Empire Line Kurta shows how adaptable Shararas are because it has a modern shape on top that gives the outfit a heavy, elegant feel.

2. Lehenga Or Skirt Sets

Ethnic clothing regularly features in this feminine fashion. The top is cute and the skirt is ankle-length. Because they float like princess robes, lehengas make people appear royal, particularly tiny women. They’re accurate for Diwali because they may be fancy. Lehengas decorate the Indian appearance.

There are different styles of lehenga skirts. The Multicolored Strapped Top with Tiered Skirt set shows how it could be stacked or tied in different ways. Something big and bright could even be printed on it, like a Frill Top with Printed Skirt. For little girls, lehengas don’t have to be worn with traditional shirts. The frill top in this set or the strappy top in the Strappy Top and Skirt Set are two examples.

3. Pair of Pants and Tops

Another popular Indo-Western outfit for Diwali is a modern shape of a fancy top with loose pants. The set might have traditional Indian prints on it or look like traditional shapes in some way. These sets are more comfortable, give the user more options, and make it easier to move around. This way of combining custom and modernity really meets the needs of kids today who want to be connected to their culture while also being modern.

Little girls can choose from a lot of different sets like this one. For example, they can wear a Kaftan top with comfortable pants or a top with embellishments on one shoulder and flared pants. Each of these tops has a different shape and a flower or traditional print that is so bright and fun that it will catch your daughter’s eye.

4. Kurta Sets

Kurtas are the simplest and comfortable Indian clothing. Young women can wear kurtas of diverse lengths, hues, and patterns. Kurtas are available in specific patterns and fabrics, making them easy to select for an occasion or personal preference.

Young women like fashionable kurtas. Girls can select from shorter kurtas with pants, just like the Yellow Kurta Set, or fancier ones, just like the Net Dupatta Set. Kurtas are flexible and traditional for Diwali in children’s clothing.

Read more – Diwali 2025 Fashion Trends: Top Ethnic Wear Styles To Try

Threads of Joy, our ethnic attire for girls, blends tradition and modernity to let your kids stand out. In-house craftsmanship ensures distinctive, trendy, and comfortable alternatives. We make use of sustainable fabric so women can wear ethnic clothing in fashion and comfort. Choose an Indian Wedding Saree for a festive, relaxed, and elegant appearance. Our traditional clothing permits youngsters to celebrate their history in fashion and comfort. Traditional culture is honored in our unique and modern designs.

We sell stylish kids wear and ethnic clothing. From design to stitching, every outfit is manufactured in-house to make kids look and feel their best. We are the ideal kids’ fashion hub, so your child’s wardrobe demands are addressed!

Cosmic tip: Time to look at things from a different perspective.

You are stepping up, you are leading, and you are doing it with structure, order and elan, Taurus. You made a wish once, and that wish is coming true for you. All the wisdom, all the struggle, all that effort is all coming together, and it is you who is binding it all together in one string. Things may be moving fast, and things may feel like they are all too aw; y—however, Taurus, you must learn to handle things in a judicious, kind and loving manner. Good news is on its way, and you are about to be victorious.

Cosmic tip: You are about to be recognised for all your hard work.

Past laurels may be past laurels; however, are they stopping you from looking forward, Gem? Whether or not things worked out in the past, you must remember that this is the truest essence of life—that it goes on in its ebbs and flows, and whatever we are blessed with or not is part of it. Closures abound, and what your circumstances currently demand of you is your ability to stay focused, grounded and have your priorities straight. It is up to you to stretch your wings to fly; however, are you going to crumble under the pressure of winging it all by yourself, or are you going to ask your team, support system and guides for help and assistance too?

Cosmic tip: Get creative, assert your independence and fly.

Stay open, stay optimistic and stay wild, Cancer. You’ve got opportunities, resources, time and effort all coming in hard for you—a sort of a balance that is being struck, and you, my dear friend, are on the gracious receiving end of it all. A new opportunity arises, and even though you are in between turns and phases, remember that the more you look forward with enthusiasm, passion and surrender, the more easily you will be able to shift gears in your present life. Things are moving fast, and they are moving now.

Cosmic tip: Seeds are well planted—now it’s your turn to keep the faith, keep the flow and keep up the good work and constructive intentions.