Innholdsfortegnelse for December 2018 i Cosmopolitan India

It’s the end of the year. Also known as the time I tend to get a smidgen sentimental and ask existential questions like, ‘What is life?’, ‘What is happiness?’, et cetera. It’s like Charlie Brown and Snoopy, with some wine thrown in. So, the other day, at dinner with friends, I was in the middle of a lively discussion about the meaning of happiness. Each guest had their own interpretation of what it takes to be joyful, but there was a common thread that was hard to miss. Most of us believe that happiness is something we have to work for. Something we have to earn. As with most things in life, we can trace this back to our early years (‘It’s always your fault, mom and dad!’). Most children…

“My friends and I threw a going-away party for one of our BFFs who was moving abroad. At the bar, a guy just randomly came up to me and asked if he could talk to me outside. I agreed, ’coz I thought he just wanted to buy me a drink (and he was cute!). To my horror, he straight up asked me if I’d like to have a threesome with him and his friend, who was creepily staring at us from a distance. I refused, and walked away real fast. So creepy!” —-AKSHITA L., 21 “I went to use the bathroom at a house party. As always, I laid down toilet paper on the seat. When I was finished, I walked out of the bathroom with two long pieces hanging…

Don’t let the crazy-cold winter months cramp your style. Miu Miu’s found the perfect solution that allows you to keep your feet on fleek, even when the temps go down. Just grab a pair of thick socks, and contrast ’em with your best party shoes—glittery, embellished, sequinned, gilded are all a go. Just remember, the brighter the contrast when styling, the cooler it’ll look. Need inspo, look to your right: fuzzy, rib-knit socks meet glamorous, sparkling shoes for a sensational match.…

1 SPRAY MY MANE DIFFICULTY 1.5/3 Lo and behold, our AW/18 Christmas-party hairdo inspiration comes… in a can?! And according to Tina Farey, Editorial Director at Rush, recreating the look is as simple as it sounds. The trick for truly popping colour? Be ruthless. Grab a vibrant pink spray-on hair colour and go to town on your locks, making sure to work in sections and spray every strand thoroughly (dark-haired women should do it twice). Fancy going the whole hog? “Have some fun with chopstick styling tongs to get a ringlet-like curl, before you get spraying, then brush the hair out for more volume and to give it a softer edge,” says Tina. Run some gel through the front of the hair and twist outwards for a crispy-looking fringe. Party…

THE LBD vs THE BODYSUIT The one-piece wonder nailed the current fashion vibe. 2018 proved that a form-fitting bodysuit is literally all you need to look effortlessly stylish, without skimping on the oomph factor that a li’l black dress brought to the table. With options ranging from sheer, monochrome, printed and lacey, this trending silhouette pairs well with literally everything. Want to look major? Opt for a standout piece under a sheer dress—we guarantee heads will turn. THE LEATHER JACKET vs THE JUMPER If you’re a ’90s kid, you’d know that sweaters were major. However, the functional-chic movement has totally changed the game. Giving the beloved leather jacket a run for its money, the humble jumper had been building its big moment for a few seasons now. And there’s something…

AUTHOR “It’s been quite the year for big, fat celebrity weddings. Lavish productions designed around creating as much of the ‘fairy-tale factor’ as possible. What’s better than watching two impeccably turned out, impossibly proportioned, beautiful, famous people stare into each other’s eyes against a picture-perfect backdrop? Well, maybe watching the same people make a sex tape, but that’s a story for another day. I’ll admit, I battled tiresome time difference and a significant amount of whining by my wretchedly unromantic family to watch, from start to finish, the live coverage of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s wedding. I could almost feel the pressure emanating out of Meghan’s shining-with-love expression as she looked up at Harry in church. Almost as if she was waiting for someone to yell, ‘Cut!’ so she…

FOUNDER, SHAPE-SHIFTER.IN “While I loved the old-fashioned ‘hip-hugger’, it’s the level of ‘everything fits’ convenience (and of course, the fact that it was/is probably the best travel companion), it’s the new wave of fanny bags that have my heart! Everything about this 2018-version screams F-A-S-H-I-O-N! From varying shapes, sizes, colours, and not to mention choice of legendary logos to go with your mood, the belt bag saw a marked revival this year. While we saw this baby being sported in all shapes, sizes, and finishes, its standout moment was definitely when celebrities wore it like a cross-body, versus tying it around the waist. I love the fact that this new batch of, let’s just say, ‘millennials for hip-bags’ aren’t just a travel companion anymore—they make a statement. Though the convenience…

YOUTUBE STAR AND MAKE-UP EXPERT “Growing up, I was obsessed with watching my mom do her makeup—and I always ended up wanting to fix it. I then started using my parents’ camcorder to make home videos—like a makeover show. I remember watching A Makeover Story, The Swan and beauty pageants as a kid, and that inspired me to create my own show. It was around this time that I started DIY-ing and playing with make-up. I started getting inspired by YouTube—I’d do tutorials and apply my technique. As a teenager, I started working at the M·A·C make-up counter, and that’s where I learned everything. M·A·C is like Hogwarts—but for artists and professionals. I became a sponge there, absorbing every little thing about make-up. I’m also a tech enthusiast, and with…

IMMEDIATELY AFTER Cuddle Your Hearts Out This ups oxytocin, which can make you both happier in your bond (yep, even more than sex can). Whether it’s for one minute or 15, snuggle up and try to sync your breathing, says Toronto-based host of the Sex With Jess podcast, Jessica O’Reilly. “As your breath becomes one, you’ll likely feel more connected.” THE NEXT DAY Have Some Pillow Talk While you’re still recovering from the physical and emotional sex high, open up and be vulnerable with each other, Jessica says. Kick off a convo by asking, ‘What would constitute a perfect day for you?’ (That’s one of US-based psychologist Arthur Aron’s 36 questions that may make you fall in love with someone.) TWO DAYS LATER Send a Flashback Text Sentiments like ‘Missing…

1. You’re invited to a white-tie wedding (like, the fanciest). You wear: a. The same sheath dress and nude pumps you sport at most nuptials. b. An edgy everyonewillthinkneedstailoring (it’s fashion, c. Something lacy and bright. If people question the colour, you’ll offer up a white-gloved hand. 2. As a tween, you fantasised about meeting your future spouse… a. In a co-ed school hallway, where you’d bond over your matching shoes. b. On a mysterious blind date with a total bad-boy type. c. At a family function—your kin invite the most interesting people. 3. You’re walking into a restaurant when bam—you bump right into Bieber. You: a. Nod, give a polite smile, and say ‘Bon appétit’. b. Convince him to make his next bop an overtly feminist anthem. c.…

Modern and fun, this embroidered circular top handle bag by Duet Luxury, ₹13,000, has the makings of the perfect party date. Plus, this colour pairs well with everything. This jumper by Gucci, ₹1,46,800, is basically my spirit animal for 2019. Yep, I’m ready to take the new year head-on. Plus, how cute would it look with a teeny-tiny mini?! I collect monochrome bodycon dresses, and I’ve found the perfect accessory that can jazz ’em up in this embroidered belt by Bhumika Sharma, ₹11,990. These sequinned shorts by Manish Arora, ₹1,09,000, can be the life of any party—and who wouldn’t want to be that? With all the OTT outfits that one ends up wearing during the party season, dainty earrings are the perfect add on. I’ve found my lobster in these…

1 A great manicure is the last piece in the puzzle that completes a superchic look. Here’s what the season’s trending nail shade card looks like: opt for a bright pop of orange, or mix it up with contrasting hues for #ManiGoals. 2 This freshly dropped coin purse charm is not just chic, but also utilatarian—big enough to fit plastic, keys, and a mini lip balm, and even bigger on the style meter. 3 We have a thing for versatile pieces. And this tailored number, featuring intricate embroidery, can be worn as a coat and also double up as a power dress when cinched with a sleek belt. 4 Need a new arm candy? This bag is functional and chic in equal measure, making it the perfect companion for your…

Blinged-out nails are ready to replace jewellery this season. Our inspo comes from Sophia Webster’s AW/18 show, where nails were treated as a canvas to create mini pieces of art. The mani featured a bright metallic varnish with light-catching crystals, glistening stones, and unexpected accents covering the moons, making the talons look like mini jewels. Pro tip: match your major mani with an equally OTT bag for the ultimate party accessory.…

A slippery, film-foaming gel that some will love, and some will hate. Teamed with hydrating heroes like shea butter and urea, it sees off dry patches on the body, easy-peasy. But if you have super-oily skin or, if you’re prone to breakouts, we’d suggest you stay away from it. Creamy and lavender-oil-laced, this superhero is a unique blend of nourishing ingredients that helps transform unhappy skin to nourished and hydrated one. This multi-tasker works as a body balm, lip balm, hand cream, and is great for ‘chapped’ relief. This is closer to a cream texture than a balm, so it leaves less tackiness on the skin. It’s packed with shea butter, beeswax, and manuka honey (as good as repairing parched skin as it is on toast). Bathing in colloidal oatmeal…

THE CROWN JEWELS The AW/18 hair runways witnessed a major bling situation. Giving the biggest hair accessories of the decades past a go, designers adorned everything from messy ’dos to sleek hairstyles with embellished/cyrstal-encrusted bobby pins and clips. While Dolce & Gabbana stuck to what they do best—merging headbands with statement crowns for an out-there look—other designers like Simone Rocha and Zadig & Voltaire paired hair jewels with XXXL earrings for a statement look that’s perfect for the party month. Pro tip: keep your make-up minimal to let your bling take centre-stage. PARTY JUICES There’s something magical about December—multiple parties bring in new acquaintances and also a chance to meet some cuties. Which makes it the perfect time to break out a new fragrance. If you’ve been wondering what scent…

DIMPY MUNPARIA, 19 “I adore pastels, and love experimenting with different shades. For this look, I’ve played with the evergreen blue-and-dirty pink combo… The black knee-high boots, sling bag and cap make for a chic contrast.” JANNAT KHAN, 26 “A classic denim shirt is the most versatile piece of clothing ever. You can use it to create a denim-on-denim look, or layer it over a monochrome outfit—knot it in the front for a retro look—to elevate the look.” AMRITA SAHNEY, 23 “Tomboy meets girl-next-door—that’s my personal style. For this look, I’ve thrown on a pair of ripped jeans and a bralet, layering it with a military bomber jacket and vintage aviators to nail a biker chic vibe.” ANGELINA PONGENER, 21 “I’m in a grunge phase RN, and since I love…

The year 2018 began innocuously enough, but just a few months in, started showing signs of becoming one of those landmark years we’ll remember forever. Our newspapers and Insta feeds were dominated by attention-grabbing headlines, and milestone moments that will be spoken about years later. There was the rise of several body positivity movements, a big win for the Indian LGBTQIA+ community with Section 377 being abolished, a move towards the beauty industry becoming more inclusive, and India’s major #MeToo moment. Here, a walk down the memory lane……

ACTOR “I recently put up a post that gave women steps to achieve a bikini body. Two simple steps: buy a bikini, and get your body into the bikini! That’s literally how simple it is, and it should be. Over the years, I’ve stressed over being fat, being too fat for my profession, being fat for hot boys, and then being comfortable in my own skin. I’ve been unhealthy and ‘fit looking’, I’ve also been really internally healthy and happy, but not a size small enough. I’ve obsessed over yoga and loved my morning practices, and I’ve also gotten extremely carried away with how much fun weight training can be at the gym! At every point, I’ve realised that my body is not just a place where I’ll be living…

HEAD OF RETAIL, NYKAA.COM “Around this time, last year, in 2017, several global beauty moghuls predicted that 2018 would be the year of natural beauty. And they were right. At Nykaa, we have noticed a strong and increasing base of customers interested in naturally-led beauty solutions. I think there are two reasons for this: one, as Indians we have a tradition in natural beauty solutions. We’ve been handed down, through generations, the benefits of traditional ingredients like haldi, honey, neem, among many others. Secondly, with a global shift towards more holistic living, the value of this knowledge is really coming into the spotlight. Among our millennial customers, there is a great emphasis on authenticity. Our customers are discerning about what products they use, what goes into the product, and how…

ACTOR “My journey has been an unusual one, but not entirely unheard of. Many women have walked this path before. But what I went through 10 years ago has taught me many lessons—helping me in becoming who I am today. Coming from a small town and having started my modelling career in Pune, I always knew I’d have to work twice as hard to find a place for myself in the glamour industry—where success is fleeting and big opportunities are reserved for those in the right clique. Even though I managed to get where I wanted to—I won the Miss Universe India title in 2004 and became an actor—it was all pulled from under my feet in an instant. The incident on the sets of Horn Ok Please in 2008…

The Sugar Spoon As the little spoon, hook your upper leg back over your man. Have him rub your clitoris with one hand. WHY IT’S ROMANTIC Maximum body contact signals “You. More, please.” The Couch Rocker Have your guy sit on the edge of a sofa, then sit on his lap. Rock gently while holding him tight. WHY IT’S ROMANTIC It’s basically a hug with orgasm potential. And it’s easy to make out face-to-face. The Figure 8 Lie on your back with your knees raised and bent and a pillow under your butt. He can grind against you in slow circles. WHY IT’S ROMANTIC The friction gives you both time to build up to an intense climax.…

Achieving your biggest goal is a high like no other, but the road to success is littered with a fear of the unknown, risk of failure, and chronic self-doubt. So, where does one even begin? Often, we get so caught up in the big picture of our goal that we can’t see the small picture and identify the steps we need to take to make that dream come true. There are two key steps to send you in the right direction on the way to Success Town. STEP 1 THE IDENTIFICATION PROCESS What is it you want? Be as precise as possible. Instead of saying you want to get into a fantastic university, think about what would make a university wonderful for you. It could be the country in which…

1 FIGHT FLU Your new power breakfast? Sweet pumpkin. Thanks to its ridiculously high levels of beta-carotene (which is then converted into Vitamin A), as well as Vitamin C, it’s one big immunity-boosting, liver-supporting, collagen-pumping powerhouse. Steam it and spread it onto gut-friendly sourdough, then top with nuts and seeds for a protein hit. Add a little maple syrup or honey to sweeten. 2 TRAIN SMARTER The easiest way to keep up your fitness when you’re doing more bar work than barre work? HIIT. Research has shown that these workouts (which last around half a minute, with you working at maximum capacity) have the same heart-health and muscle-tone benefits as longer, moderate-intensity exercise workouts, even when participants only exercised for seven minutes. Do three sessions a week in December, and…

MOSTLY As CLASSY KATE You’re one posh woman: graceful, well-mannered, and humble…but with a spine of steel. Good on you for keeping your cool and always putting up a steady front. Just remember that it’s also okay to bare your flaws and real feels once in a while. MOSTLY Bs MODERN MEGHAN Fearless is an understatement. Like the latest addition to the Windsor crew, you’ve been sparkling since birth. That said, you know how to rein it in when the situation requires, which makes you a whiz at navigating new challenges and uncharted territories. MOSTLY Cs KWEEN B Beyoncé who? People bow down to you. You demand respect (without having to say a damn thing), and while you may be a bit of a traditionalist, you still have the ability…

This magic potion (featuring charcoal oil) transforms from black to transparent upon application, and leaves you with clear, dewy skin that’s protected from environmental aggressors. The best part: you can use it in your AM and PM routine and also as a make-up base. An easy way to make bathtime more luxurious—this oudhinfused shower gel, featuring actual 24 carat gold flakes (yep!). The light texture lathers well and leaves you with a heady scent. Bonus: you can also pour it into a bath soak. Maybelline’s latest drop offers va-va-volume in just two coats. This mascara features a creamy, whipped formula enriched with coconut oil that leaves you with irresistibly soft, separated, and fluffy lashes, minus the weight or clots. Launching a new scent after 20 years, this fume from the…

In our busy lives, we often skip moisturising, which can leave our skin feeling dry and flaky. But now, Spawake’s recently launched White Solution Insta Glow Spa Sheet Mask is here to save the day. The sheet mask is infused with rich beauty ingredients and sea minerals, which instantly moisturise your skin and give it a healthy glow. Furthermore, it has a sealing effect that lets your skin absorb all the moisture and locks it in, giving you brighter skin tone in just a single use. It contains ingredients like splash polymer that provides a comfortable fresh base while the emollient capsule makes the skin soft and supple. The product contains moisturising agents like Vitamin C & B3, rich sea minerals, and algae extract making it an efficacy product in…

1. On cheat days, I love to eat anything cooked at my (paternal) grandmother’s place. 2. My 3am friends are Kunal Rawal and Aarti Shetty. 3. I’m currently binge-watching The Marvellous Mrs. Maisel, Narcos Mexico, and Modern Family. 4. If I wasn’t an actor, I’d be a director. 5. My typical Sunday would be spent lazying around in bed, binge-watching TV shows and movies, and having dessert from Bastien’s (in Mumbai). 6. My favourite social media trend is Karan’s (Johar) Toodles because it’s damn funny and I can’t deny it. [Laughs] 7. 2018, for Arjun Kapoor, has been a big learning experience. 8. One thing I hate about being an actor is that I’m constantly judged even when I don’t want to. 9. The first thing I notice in a woman…

ABRAHAM &THAKORE Fine Indian textiles take a new definition when it comes to Abraham & Thakore. With over 20 years in the business, their silhouettes are effortless and minimal with a strong contemporary Indian look and focus on fabric (all of which are designed and woven in-house). “We cater to the modern Indian man who loves comfort and luxury with a special affinity to fine Indian textiles,” says Rakesh. DHRUV VAISH Marrying contemporary designs with traditional silhouettes, Dhruv Vaish presents myriad garments varying from a bandgala overcoat to an exaggerated lapel shirt. Before he started his namesake label, Dhruv worked with Calvin Klein, Diane von Furstenberg and Rohit Bal, exposing himself to the best of the Indian and international market. Go to him for unique separates with sharp tailoring. ASHISH…

BEAUTY IS SKIN-DEEP “I’ve always admired Kalki for being someone who doesn’t shy away from speaking her mind. But after reading her interview, I’m a fan of hers for life. I totally agree with Kalki’s approach to beauty and her stance on the unrealistic standards followed world over. Also, it’s great to know the work she’s been doing behind the scenes to support India’s #MeToo movement. More power to her!” —Ananya Kapoor HEALTHY SKIN FTW! “My skin has been under a lot of stress lately, and I had almost given up on it till I came across Beauty and the Pain. After reading about the non-surgical procedures, I’m tempted to try one and see how it goes. But until then, I’m going to take inspo from In Colour and work…

Tucked away somewhere in Kim Kardashian West’s mansion right now is a box that contains an old chicken-nugget container, just one of the many items she’s saved from memorable dates and experiences—with guys other than Kanye. “Everyone has an ex box,” she recently insisted on an episode of the family’s reality show. You know what she means… that container filled with ticket stubs, mushy birthday cards, and other mementos of a previous lover—the kind of emotionally charged stash that can sometimes be harder to give up than the relationship itself. The question is, do you even need to? Well, it depends. An ex box might simply be filled with innocent keepsakes that remind you of your personal growth, says Michelle Janning, PhD, a professor of sociology at Whitman College, US,…

GLAM GOAL High Volume Serve up sexy retro vibes by adding extra height at your crown with rollers. Start by blowdrying strands in two-inch sections along the top of your head. While hair is still warm, wrap each section around a roller, up to your roots. This allows the hair to set in the shape of the roller as it cools, creating body. GLAM GOAL Epic Mani Press-on nails let you rock the OTT designs you can’t do by hand (and peel off when you’re over them). Prep by pushing back your cuticles, then place each nail (these have adhesive on the back) on top of your natural nail, right up to the cuticle, and press down for a few seconds. GLAM GOAL Glitter Eyes “Always apply sparkle first,” says…

THE COLLAGEN BUILDER Similar to pro microneedling tools used by derms, GloPRO is covered in tiny needles that create superficial, painless punctures in the skin when rolled back and forth. These wounds prompt production of collagen and elastin (proteins that keep skin plump and firm) as the skin heals, which can result in smaller pores, improved texture, and fewer lines with continued use. THE MULTI-TASKER Behind the mask: 100 red and 62 blue LED lights that work together to create your most epic skin. “LED is the ultimate do-it-all ingredient,” says derm Dennis Gross, MD, the mask’s creator. “The skin has receptors for LED, just like it does for other topical ingredients, such as Vitamin C and retinol. This allows the blue lights to control excess sebum and acne-causing bacteria…

SHIVAN & NARRESH “Kicking off from our latest Koi Series collection, these sneakers are an extension of the same. Illustrated with the series’ Handcrafted Signature Koi Skein Work and raffia-frayed flaps with metallic trims, they are dipped in the essence of Gond art contribution. The addition of black pearl detailing has provided an elegant luxury to the process, making them appropriate for a celebratory soirée or a fun night out with friends. They are a perfect match for Shivan & Narresh Unisex Mamba Jumpers and bomber jackets from the same collection. We imagine these being styled with printed rompers, pyjamas, and cropped skirts. They’ll also be a fun addition to a bride’s Shivan & Narresh lehenga/sari on the beach or by the pool.” PANKAJ & NIDHI “Our aesthetic has always…

THE GLITTERATI HAVE ARRIVED! Brace yourselves ’coz this season, minimalism is out and OTT is in. Runways around the world have witnessed a sparkly takeover, thanks to designers like Alberta Ferretti and Dolce & Gabbana, who’ve gone wild with sequins, lurex, and metallic fabrics. So as muted winter staples become a thing of the past, make place for sequinned, floor-length dresses, fringed-hem midis, metallic slip dresses and more. BUCKET LIST IT Fendi’s Mon Trésor bag just got an It makeover. Crafted with Selleria leather, it comes in bold hues like red and blue, along with various shades of beige. Packed with multiple pockets, a detachable double strap and a drawstring fastening, it’s the perfect amalgm of style and glamour. TREND ALERT This winter’s going to be lit (literally) thanks to…

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, THE LALIT SURI HOSPITALITY GROUP AND FOUNDER, KESHAV SURI FOUNDATION “As afternoon set in on September 6, 2018, the roots of a just and equal society were being sown. Chief Justice Dipak Misra delivered a landmark verdict in the Supreme Court and the country swelled with pride. It means I, and many others like me, will now live freely, without the fear of being falsely prosecuted by law. It means equality, and that we, as a nation, have been ushered into a new era. My belief, in my country, was reiterated. Though the judgement has tremendous significance, we have only scratched the surface. There’s still a long way for us to go. While, homosexuality is no longer a criminal offence, it will take time for the community to…

ACTOR “As a little girl, I was a big Bollywood aficionado (I still am). I would lie awake in bed for hours, thinking about the films I had seen. I always had a multitude of questions: ‘Why did the hero and heroine not communicate the truth to each other in a timely manner?’; ‘Why were the heroines always and so easily ashamed?’; ‘What was this izzat, really?’; ‘Did rape mean to strip someone of their clothes?’ (I hadn’t had sex-ed classed yet); ‘Why did only vamps dance on top of tables?’ (It seemed like fun!); ‘Why did only bad women smoke and drink on screen?’; Why did women never have jobs in Hindi films?’; ‘Why did the ones who had jobs stop working after marriage?’; ‘Why were women who continued…

FASHION JOURNALIST “While the focus of Indian designers has steadily been shifting towards indigenous textiles over the past few years, 2018 saw a real celebration of Indian weaves and fabrics. From young labels like Torani by Karan Torani who launched his label with a range of hand-printed chanderi just six months ago to Sanjay Garg, whose Heer campaign focused on Benarasi weaves—India’s textiles have come into their own this year. For me, as a fashion observer, it was always the work of designers like Abraham & Thakore, Rajesh Pratap Singh, Anavila Mishra, and Palak Shah’s Ekaya that stood out. But this year, the story of Indian textiles has found new converts. For example, Pratima Pandey brought zari weaves into her collection as a focal point at her Spring 2019 show,…

You’ve been told that certain conversations are never okay in the workplace—even with your work wife and other close co-workers. But some of the rules surrounding taboo workplace topics were made to be broken. In fact, speaking your truth may even strengthen some of your workplace relationships, reduce your stress and frustrations, and make you a more productive and confident employee. Here’s how to speak up about the following topics—smartly. 1 COMPENSATION Comparing compensation with a coworker was once a faux pas under any circumstances, but NYC-based career coach Roy Cohen says it doesn’t pay to stay silent about the size of your paycheck: “How else can you know where you stand and your value in the food chain?” Just reserve the conversation for colleagues you have a trusting relationship…

Q. When I started dating my BF, he was more into me than I was into him. Now I think that bothers him. How do I make sure he doesn’t question my current feelings? A: Insecure guys can be the most stubborn. They hold on to doubts and put up emotional walls, making it tough for the truth to get through. There’s no easy fix here, but you can wear down his defenses by continuing to tell him how much you care. The longer you’re together and the more you show your appreciation, the more comfortable he’ll feel in your relationship. Q: Why are men in their mid-30s averse to dating women their own age?! A: Ah, an age-old question. Fortunately, it’s nothing to take personally. Unfortunately, patriarchal and outdated attitudes…

BREAKFAST BRAMBLE SLY GRANNY, KHAN MARKET, NEW DELHI Ingredients: 45ml gin, 15ml crème de mure or blackberry syrup, 15gm apricot jam and rosemary jam, 15gm plain yoghurt, 15ml lemon juice Glass: Hurricane Method: In a shaker, put ice and then add all the ingredients. Shake and strain the concoction into the glass. Top it off with crushed ice, and garnish with blackberries and a slice of lemon. POPCORN MARTINI CIVIL HOUSE BY HEMANT OBEROI, KHAN MARKET, NEW DELHI Ingredients: 60ml vodka infused with pocorn, 10ml orange liquor, 10ml caramel syrup, a pinch of salt, some popped popcorn Glass: Martini Method: On low heat, simmer water, popcorn, a pinch of salt, and caramel syrup to form a reduction. Add it to a shaker along with the orange liquor and infused vodka,…

ON THE COVER On Sonakshi: CUE by Rohit Gandhi + Rahul Khanna— D-15, Defence Colony, ND. La Perla—DLF Emporio, Vasant Kunj, ND. Eina Ahluwalia— www.einaahluwalia.com. H&M— DLF Mall Of India, Noida, UP. FASHION Abhishek Gupta & Nandita Basu— 1, MG Road, Mehrauli, ND. Arpita Mehta— www.perniaspopupshop.com. Arvind Ampula— Instagram: @ arvindampula. Aldo— DLF Promenade, Vasant Kunj, ND. Armaan Randhawa— www.armaanrandhawa.com. Bloni—284/2, Lane 3, Said-Ul-Ajaib, Saket, ND. Bijoux By Priya Chandna—www.carmaonlineshop.com. Bluestone— www.bluestone.com. Burberry— DLF Emporio, Vasant Kunj, ND. Christian Louboutin—DLF Emporio, Vasant Kunj, ND. Coach— DLF Emporio, Vasant Kunj, ND. Christian Dior— DLF Emporio, Vasant Kunj, ND. Charles & Keith—DLF Promenade, Vasant Kunj, ND. Diesel— Ambience Mall, Vasant Kunj, ND. Fila— www.fila.co.in. Fendi— DLF Emporio, Vasant Kunj, ND. GAIA by Sidharth Sinha—www.nsgaia.com. Gauri & Nainika— 560, Lado Sarai, ND. Good Earth—9, Khan Market, ND. Gucci— DLF Emporio, Vasant Kunj,…

Arjun Kapoor can come across as “silent and broody”. Or, at least that’s how he sees himself. Others, not the same story. At the Cosmo cover shoot, Arjun walks in several minutes before the scheduled call-time, and is in a good mood. He greets the crew, and there are hugs and hellos all around. Later, he reveals that he makes a conscious effort to be more friendly, lest people see him as a moody type. He’s doing a good job of it, because within minutes of setting the shoot in motion, Arjun’s ‘reserved’ side takes a backseat, allowing a wittier, warmer version of him to take over. The energy on the set changes—with Arjun playfully teasing the photographer and indulging in self-deprecating humour. The atmosphere is light, easy, and there…