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A few hallmark signs you may be dealing with this toxic type of contrarian include:

1. They interrupt your happy moments

You’re midway through an exciting story about a first date gone well or a long-overdue promotion at work, when all of a sudden they swoop in with a put-down: “Well, isn’t this only the first date?” “Actually, that’s not a promotion—it sounds more like a raise.”

2. They fixate on irrelevant details

Maybe you’re recounting a funny moment from girls’ night or showing off the retro gem you scored at a vintage shop. Rather than responding to the bigger point, a contrarian will latch onto something more trivial, like how, technically, that leather jacket isn’t truly vintage, since the brand only launched in 2010. In other words, they seem more fixated on correcting you, Dr. Ferrari points out, than connecting with you.

3. Their tone sounds more smug than supportive

It’s one thing to gently fact-check you when you’re objectively wrong (like mispronouncing someone’s name, say). But if their delivery sounds more condescending (You know that trend isn’t new, right? Or, That’s such a basic take), that’s less about honesty and more about judgment, according to Dr. Degges-White.

4. They only act this way with you

They’re overly sweet, attentive and supportive with others yet cold, critical and dismissive with you. Perhaps they roll their eyes only when you get excited about something or they’re quick to poke holes in your stories but let everyone else’s slide. These are signs that this devil’s advocate role isn’t an innocent personality quirk: It may be a targeted attempt to knock you down.

How to deal with the contrarian friend

Regardless of the reason behind their behaviour, one thing remains true: Dealing with a friend who disagrees all the time can be exhausting. Friends are supposed to lift you up, not wear you down with endless nitpicking.

“Everyone has a different threshold for tolerating a friend’s ‘poor’ behaviour,” Dr. Degges-White points out. “But if you find yourself dreading time with them or avoiding contact, it may be a good idea to have a heart-to-heart about what’s bugging you.” In the moment, you can consider gently setting boundaries with a simple one-liner like, “Can I share something without it turning into a debate?” or “I’m not really looking for different perspectives—I just want to vent.”

For fashion lovers, there’s no debate: handbags are the most coveted accessory (second only to shoes) at the start of every new season. This autumn-winter 2025, the trends continue to evolve with some of the most refreshing ideas seen on the runways, bringing a playful twist. Think designs adorned with all kinds of charms, snakeskin-inspired prints, bold shades like lime green, and even controversial choices like mini bags. Each one invites us to question whether we really need that basic brown model, or if it’s finally time to embrace bold fashion, bursting with colour and possibilities. Silent luxury, rest in peace.

With charms

The most adorable trend on this list is the addition of charms to all the accessories we incorporate into our outfits. After the Sonny Angels craze—once commonly seen hanging from phone cases—it’s now the turn of Labubus on handbags. But the possibilities go far beyond plush toys. Classic teddy bears, keychains, and even metallic accents are just as on-trend. The latter are often seen in nostalgic pieces like Chloé’s iconic Paddington bag, once the most coveted handbag of the 2000s. Now revived by Chemena Kamali, the design fits perfectly into this playful, naïve trend. With its signature padlock and key, it comes pre-accessorised, no extras needed. Brands like Acne, Etro, and Coach are also embracing this cute aesthetic in all its forms, proving that the key is to personalise your look in a way that’s uniquely charming.

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Chloé

Vestiare Collective – Chloé Paddington

The colour of the season: brown

If you’re only going to invest in one bag for fall-winter 2025, make it this colour. Brown is the shade of the year, and for good reason. It functions like a neutral, pairs effortlessly with all kinds of outfits, and despite being one of the season’s top trends, it’s timeless enough to wear for years to come. The fact that The Row has embraced it in its latest collection only confirms its status as the next fashion editor’s obsession and the ultimate quiet luxury staple. Joining the Olsen sisters’ brand are Hermès, Prada, and Burberry, all showcasing the colour’s versatility. You’ll find everything from solid designs to ombré finishes and even prints that combine multiple shades of brown for a rich, layered effect. This is what autumn was made for.

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The Row

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Burberry – Highlands Tote

An alternative for those who want more colour: lime green or mint green

Despite what we said in the previous paragraph, brown isn’t the only colour making waves on the catwalks. While some shades are still riding last year’s high (like cherry red, which went viral), a cooler tone is crashing the warm-toned party: lime green—or mint green—emerges as a bold statement. Sporting a bag in one of these hues creates a striking, unexpected effect you’ll want to repeat again and again. It’s the perfect antidote to the incoming winter, bringing a refreshing, summery touch to colder months. Labels like Marni, Casablanca, Gucci, and Miu Miu are embracing the trend. A little brat, as Charli XCX would say, and a step before diving into the neon green that fashion insiders are already head over heels for.

Marni

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Gucci

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Bimba y Lola – Bikini Paper

A print: the snake

The leopard print has officially taken a back seat with the arrival of autumn. This might be disappointing for die-hard fans of the print, but there’s a worthy substitute: snake print. Reptile-inspired designs appear at Schiaparelli, Valentino, and Stella McCartney, perfectly complementing the brown tones that define the season. It’s a wild-inspired alternative for those looking to add a neutral accessory with extra depth and texture to their collection. As Gabriela Hearst shows, snake print pairs beautifully with fur coats, the staple we won’t be giving up anytime soon to brave the cold. One last note: while snake print has appeared on all kinds of accessories during Fashion Weeks, it’s in roomy bags—large enough to carry your entire life—that it truly shines.

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Schiaparelli

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Mini bags

Opposites coexist—and thrive—in autumn-winter 2025. On one end, there are large, all-terrain bags with room for everything. On the other hand, their complete opposite: mini bags. These tiny designs are so small they might only fit a lip gloss (if that), serving mostly as a charm for other bags—or a quirky little “helmet case.” This trend, already popular on social media, evolves from the double bags that debuted in recent years, now prioritising aesthetics over utility. Brands like Chloé, Chanel, Coach, and Isabel Marant are leading the way with mini silhouettes so adorable they could hang from a single finger. It sounds impractical, but let’s not forget the buzz Jacquemus’ Chiquito bag created back in 2020. It’s not always about carrying everything; sometimes, it’s about pure fun, a flirty, playful detail that replicates our favourite styles in micro size. Plus, it’s the perfect gift for our little daughters.

Chloé

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Coach

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Isabel Marant – Moon mini

Saint Laurent – Gaby micro

Baguette bags

The classic and comfortable baguette bag continues its journey. Its elongated shape appears in collections by Prada and Courrèges, cementing its status as a must-have accessory. This staple, beloved by fashion insiders, is closely associated with Fendi, which naturally includes it in its seasonal lineup. The real novelty? How it’s worn. Moving away from the usual over-the-shoulder style, the baguette is now carried like a clutch, which is perfect for events and special occasions, but equally stylish for dinners with friends and family.

Courrèges

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This article was first published on Vogue.it

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The key Spring-Summer 2025 bag trends to know now

Sonali Bendre’s enduring sense of style is one that leans into elegance, nostalgia and wardrobe classics that transcend time. Her latest appearance in a stunning shaded chiffon sari by Nachiket Barve is a continuation of that narrative. Dyed in warm sunset tones that move from saffron to deep scarlet, the sari is a lesson in how simplicity can be nothing short of spectacular.

“There’s a very interesting backstory on how this sari came about,” shares designer Nachiket Barve. “I had created a chiffon look for her about 13 years ago for a television show she was part of back then. She wore a sari from my Caravan collection that was inspired by the silk route. It was a gradient sari in sunset hues, while the blouse emulated armoured doors.” The memory sparked the idea for a new collaboration when the designer and actor met recently, leading to this reimagined drape for her upcoming reality show Pati, Patni Aur Panga.

Crafted in gossamer-thin chiffon, the sari is dyed entirely by hand to mimic the sky as it transitions through dusk. There’s an ethereal quality to the way the colours melt into each other. But it’s the blouse that truly sets the look apart. “It is my trademark appliqué work, which is a technique that we have been trying [in order] to perfect the idea of three dimensionality in ornamentation,” Barve explains. “For Sonali’s blouse, we have handcrafted about seven different types of flowers. Each flower is enhanced with sequin work, beading, thread embroidery, cutwork, bugle beads and, of course, appliqué.” The intricacy is breathtaking and yet the blouse is nearly light-as-air. “Despite being designed at a haute couture level, it’s weightless. The blouse alone took over 500 hours of weaving and embroidery. It’s a look that marries a contemporary sari with Indian craftsmanship,” he adds.

What makes her ensemble especially compelling is its versatility, which makes it endlessly adaptable, occasion after occasion, season after season. She styled the look with oxidised silver earrings by Tribe Amrapali, engraved with the label’s signature chand motifs and orange stones that complemented the sari. Her makeup was kept soft and radiant, with dewy skin, flushed cheeks and a rose-toned lip, while defined eyes lent subtle drama. In keeping with the nostalgic appeal, her hair was styled in a half-up, half-down ’do with a bouffant.

Also Read:

Sonali Bendre’s midnight blue Manish Malhotra sari is drenched in sequins

Manushi Chhillar brings painterly florals to monsoon with her Label Anushree sari

Tamannaah Bhatia’s butter yellow Manish Malhotra gown is adorned with crystal work

Cosmic tip: Back those ideas with emotional stability.

If adventure is solely what got you going in the past, Taurus, it is not what will sustain you in the long run. Relax, I’m not saying life will be drab and boring, but your sense of adventure will need to be backed by planning and structure. You sure can look forward to some really exciting stuff that is lined up for you; however, remember that you have closed, and some are still winding up massive chapters in your life, and the old ways simply won’t welcome new pastures anymore.

Cosmic tip: Responsibility enmeshed with excitement is what will drive you forward.

Yay! You’ve made a decision, and how! Gem, you chose what lifts you chose joy, and you chose love for life over mere protocol. You have understood that following the norm and authority might not be your cup of coffee, but you still crave companionship and community. And here you are, experiencing and building all of that while still sculpting your masterpiece.

Cosmic tip: Authority, structure, and leadership are what will get you where you wish to be, not mindless action.

You have kept on sowing the seeds of an amazing life ahead, and truth be told, Cancer, you are not what you used to be—even energetically. You are not only recognising your new needs but also getting comfortable with them at your core. This new idea that you have received—it will not only make your life easier, but also more fulfilling. This is your time to carefully handpick all you want in your basket, not just now but also in the future. And then, work your way towards it.

Cosmic tip: All those ideas you have—they are leading you to the growth and abundance you seek. Organise them and get the ball rolling now.

Woof! Your intuition, Leo—it has been on point and how! Now listen up, darling, the cosmos has not only given you a green light but also increased your speed limit, and don’t you love a good speed! The one thing you must remember, though, is that the lighter your vehicle and the more grounded it is, the quicker it gets to the finish line. Also, yes, when you shift from survival mode into abundance mode, you not only ease up your energy and nervous system, but you also shift your focus to what you think deserves attention.

A staunch advocate of conscious living, Dia Mirza has long used her voice and wardrobe to spotlight indigenous artisanal work and handwoven fabrics. So it comes as no surprise that, for a recent outing, the actor and environmentalist turned to a label deeply rooted in slow fashion and textile revival. Mirza chose a rani pink kurta set from Tilla by Aratrik Dev Varman, which reflects her deep-rooted commitment to slow fashion.

“Her kurta set is crafted using handwoven silk organza, which is block-printed with vertical stripes,” shares Dev Varman. The result is a luminous top that creates texture and depth without overwhelming the fabric’s simplicity. “The yoke is inspired by Islamic architectural influences and features pitta work,” he adds. The same ornamentation is mirrored on the sleeve cuffs. Her kurta is rounded off with solid flared pants and an organza dupatta with small buttis and a delicate border. Thanks to its vibrant colour juxtaposed with intricate work, her well-balanced look is a study in mindful luxury and a deep connection to India’s textile legacy.

Dia Mirza accessorised her look with a pair of statement chandbali earrings from Maya Sanghavi Jewels, “crafted with 18-carat gold and adorned with 4.87 carats of polkis and 1.79 carats of full-cut diamonds along with natural pearls. Handcrafted using the open-setting technique, this piece blends regal heritage with modern refinement,” shares Darshan Sanghavi of Maya Sanghavi Jewels. Her styling was purposefully minimal, letting the outfit speak for itself. With natural makeup and a hairdo showcasing soft curls, the focus stayed on her kurta set and its understated intricacy.

This handwoven kurta is the kind of versatile piece that transitions effortlessly from AM to PM and across special events. You can dial it up with a choker for a wedding or keep it pared-down, like Mirza, with minimal styling for festive occasions. It’s the kind of look that doesn’t rely on trends or embellishments to make an impact, but instead offers a deeper connection to the idea of dressing with intention.

Also Read:

Kajol’s blouse features a micro pearl trim you might have missed

From Apatani to Moirang phee—mapping out India’s lesser-known handlooms

Shilpa Shetty trades in her signature saris for an embroidered peplum kedia jacket

This week, beauty didn’t follow a single arc; it curved, smoked, blushed and gleamed. Sushmita Sen leaned into sculptural glamour with high-shine lids and bold blush, while elsewhere, minimalism found its footing in matte skin, kohl-lined eyes, and soft waves. The tension between restraint and statement played out on every face, proof that good beauty isn’t about uniformity.

Shilpa Shetty strikes the perfect balance with radiant skin, soft contouring and a perfect wing liner. The nude lip adds just the right touch of polish to her look. Donning her stunning jhumka ear cuffs she let her features shine and pulled her detailed fit with grace.

Beautifully subtle and elegant, exactly what Shruti Haasan’s look feels like. Her flawless matte skin creates a soft and natural base, while the eye-liner and perfectly shaped brows add intensity. A deep, muted berry lip complements her all-black outfit. The oxidised jhumkas, ring and black bindi adds an extra 5 points to her look.

Fatima Sana Shaikh’s dewy skin glows with a natural finish, a hint of blush that adds warmth to her cheeks. Subtle definition with mascara and a touch of eyeliner, while her lips are painted in a muted pink that upgrades her look without overpowering it. A classic no-makeup makeup look.

Call it molten or mirrored, either way, Sushmita Sen’s lids did not come to play. The bronze-champagne eyeshadow caught light at every angle, lending her glam eye moment a high-definition sheen. Paired with sculpting blush, a rosy pink gloss and those signature power brows, it was the makeup equivalent of a mic drop.

Sonakshi Sinha is perfectly mirroring her all-black attire. Her skin has a velvety matte finish, with sculpted cheeks. Her eyeshadow came with a smoky afterthought—part molten, part mood. The taupe gradient added depth without harshness and the high-sheen finish kept it firmly in the realm of glamour, not grunge. A nude-mauve lip shade was the perfect finishing touch, making her appear soft and strong at the same time.

Kajol’s beauty look this week synonymised grace and warmth. With soft flushed cheeks and a hint of highlight, her skin glows with a radiance and a natural finish. The classic kohl and defined lashes drew attention without being too dramatic. Her soft pink lips add a fresh charm, while she rocks the black saree, ear tops and her hair tied back.

Consider this an official entry into the shrine dedicated to all things retro, where ’90s slip skirts, with their simple, clean cuts and satin finish, reign supreme. We can say with absolute certainty that they are present on every inspiration board under the category “minimal chicstyle”, with images ranging from the classic silhouettes of Jil Sander and Calvin Klein to Prada’s luxurious interpretation of simplicity. Not to mention off-the-runway looks, such as Carolyn Bessette Kennedy’s favourite midi-drop piece, which invites you to lean into sensuality, without compromising on your elegance.

Recognised for its low waist and silky look, often accompanied by lace at the hem, the fashion trends for Spring-Summer 2025 bring back the garment that influential designers such as Helmut Lang, Alexander McQueen and Tom Ford immortalised for decades to come. A statement that, despite its ups and downs in the fashion cycle, is always gracefully received.

How to wear 90’s slip skirts with sandals this season

Whether day or night, on-trend skirts for Spring-Summer 2025, whether satin, slip or lingerie style, are quickly asserting themselves, catching all eyes and reflecting the mood of the season. Sophisticated, fun, sexy, elegant, casual and distinctive styles converge in them. Of course, the personality they convey will depend on how they are styled. That said, back to the sandals to start discovering their full potential.

Lace and satin-effect mini skirt styled with sandals

Edward Berthelot/Getty Images.

This is the space between effort and expansion — a breath, a toast, a moment that says: you are going to do that. Leo, you ventured onto something, you dug your heels into the ground, and here you are—reining it all in. Take a moment to pause and get clear on what it is that you are walking towards—let your emotions be your compass and your mind forge the path ahead. Remember that you are not trying to control things; you are simply trying to ensure you put your best foot forward. This period of deep transformation is the harbinger of good news, but first, you must willingly choose the brighter side to stay on it.

Cosmic tip: Community, kinship, and support come in unexpectedly. Create space for celebrations.

Filter. Filter your life, your choices, your friends, your loved ones, your thoughts, your habits, your beliefs, your faith in possibility, your drive, your ambition, your goals —everything. Virgo, this period of emotional contentment and opportunity urges you to think creatively and dream your wildest dreams. Something is ready to overflow in your life—and you get to choose if it will be stress, worry, anxiety or happiness, joy and fulfilment. Abundance knocks at your door in every way—open it to receive it.

Cosmic tip: Stay open, stay curious, stay soft.

You thought something might turn out a certain way—but really, is it? Libra, hold space for yourself and others. Remember that mercury is retrograde with the full moon basking in all its glory—so be kind, and wait for clarity to dawn, even in communication. Assumptions often lead to miscommunications and breakdowns—and this may not be the perfect time for either. Stay grounded and practical through it all, and you will realise that there is so much to be grateful for that the moon is only helping you see through all this chaos.

Cosmic tip: Be generous—with your heart and soul. Generosity is, sooner or later, greatly rewarded by the cosmos.

Your fears may be getting the better of you, Scorpio, but breathe, it is a powerful full moon, and while there may be some meat in the game, all is not lost. Tread carefully and walk in your shoes with utmost awareness. Turbulence in relationships is likely, not because all is meant to fail, but because something needs to be settled in. Carefully evaluate all the options currently at your table, and make choices that feel aligned. You don’t need to choose today. You only need to consider the options. Ride the wave and let clarity set in.

Instagram.com/kajol

The blouse is sleeveless, cut low in the back and features scalloped edges trimmed with tiny pearls, to add just a hint of detail without drawing focus away from the sari.

The makeup stays soft: lightly defined eyes, Kajol’s usual kohl, and a berry lip that keeps things grounded. Her hair, in a loosely pinned low bun, looks simple and neat.

When it comes to accessorising, the actor lets her polki earrings take centre stage. Shaped like blooming rosettes, they add structure to her face. Along with the studs is an emerald-cut gemstone ring that sits on her pinkie—a personal talisman slipped on without occasion, the kind of element you’d miss in motion.

It’s not about standout pieces or bold choices. It’s about how everything sits together: quiet, considered and completely lived-in.

From Vogue’s fashion desk:

“This National Handloom Day, take a cue from Kajol—the black sari is our very own LBD. Her floral drape strikes the perfect balance between heritage and effortlessly classic. The motif or print really helps you define the look you are going for: bigger florals lean towards a retro ’50s look, while a smaller floral motif in certain colours can be a fresh take on it. A sleeveless blouse is lovely but why not swap this for a balloon-sleeved black georgette or organza blouse? Keep accessories refined: sculptural earrings, a touch of pearls and a classic bag. Finish up with dewy skin and a cat eye to lean into retro sophistication,” says Vogue India fashion editor, Divya Balakrishnan.

Also read:

Kajol’s ivory sari featured a gold lampi border done entirely by hand

Kajol’s peach organza sari with marodi embroidery is the perfect antidote to grey monsoon

Kajol’s black pre-draped sari came with a corset featuring 3,500 Swarovski crystals

For her red-carpet appearance at the Red Sea International Film Festival, she opted for a custom gown from the Miss Sohee spring 2023 couture collection. Crafted from milky-grey satin, the dress was accented with deep lavender-vine embellishments and black creeper motifs inspired by a 19th-century Korean painting. The mermaid silhouette featured a corseted torso, a sweetheart neckline, dramatic, voluminous, double-puffed sleeves and a long, embellished train.

Chocolate-brown gown by Gaurav Gupta

For the opening night of Jio World Plaza, Bhatt wore a sculpted chocolate-brown gown by Gaurav Gupta that showcased architectural fluidity and volume. The strapless corset bodice featured satin ribbing and a sweetheart neckline, cinching her waistline and contouring her figure. The gown’s dramatic, floral-detailed caged skirt added eccentric volume and was complemented by matching brown tights. The asymmetrical rose motifs along the skirt’s length brought a sculptural, contemporary edge, while a high slit added movement and intensity to the look.

White pearl gown by Prabal Gurung