Tabla de contenidos para November 2020 en Cosmopolitan India

I have always marvelled at my mother’s ability to find beauty in sometimes unexpected, often simple, things. A Kachnar tree laden with rosy-purple flowers. An old Kalighat painting, and the elementary, gold frame it is encased in. A perfectly ripened lime from the tree in her backlawn, and the curiously shaped cloud that floats in the sky above… My mother revels in each one of these beauties, experiencing blessed joy in each event. Confucius once said, “Everything has beauty but not everyone sees it”, but my mother, clearly, didn’t have to be told. For many of us, the definition of beauty has everything to do with the physical form. Growing up, my own idea of ‘good looking’ was deeply influenced by pop princesses—the sultry smize and perky nose of Christina…

A few days before we speak to John Legend, he releases a music video that goes viral. The video, for his single, Wild, features him and his wife Chrissy Teigen on a crazy journey involving cars and horses, and ends with the couple on a beach with their two children, Luna and Miles. Wild is John’s (real name John Stephens) fourth single to be released from his latest album, Bigger Love. It’s another success story for a man who seems to be able to do no wrong. At 41, he has worked with everyone from Jay-Z to Kanye West, fought for criminal justice reform in US prisons, and become the second youngest person (and first Black man) to acquire EGOT Altus (that’s a winner of an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and…

1 I AM TROUBLE BY KC “Highstreet-chic is a thing, and here’s a brand that gets the philosophy. I am especially taken in by the skirt with messages on the hem, and the jumpsuits featuring a large dot across the chest—such a stylish way to make your point!” 2 NIKHITA TANDON “I spotted this dress on the designer’s Instagram page and haven’t been able to get it out of my head since. Sequins and multi-coloured flowers come together on a glimmering party outfit that will stand the test of time—and trend. The noodle straps on this design are perfect to flaunt your collar bones, and the hand-embroidered floral details keep things flirty.” 3 NIIAASHI “It’s impossible not to fall in love with these dramatic, statement danglers! I know I did,…

Tarini Manchanda FOUNDER, THE INITIAL STUDIO “I got this lounge-set from Siyona By Ankurita, and love it for the interesting use of jute and crepe. I haven’t been able to wear it much yet, but it is something I see myself wearing a lot—with chunky earrings and metallic heels when dressing up, or with sneakers for a casual look… or barefoot at home! It’s the kind of piece that can go from day to night with ease, and is perfect to lounge at home in, or wear to small, cosy gatherings. I see this set working well during colder days, too. Being a local business-owner myself, I’m trying to focus on younger brands with unique perspectives and wearable clothes for the current landscape. I love Cord for its perfect minimalism,…

AKANKSHA YADAV, 23 “The transition weather ATM is perfect to have some sartorial fun! Like here: I’ve layered a blazer with a turtle-neck tee, over a pair of shorts. The neon tee adds a pop of colour, which I’ve further played up with the bag. The studded belt gives definition to the ensemble, while also complementing the boots, and lend an element of punk-edge.” NATASHA TYAGI, 26 “I’m an avid, all-white fan, and love to style the shade in all permutations and combinations. For Cosmo, I’ve opted for mustard-yellow accents to go with the outfit, by way of the coat and headgear, to add an element of cheer.” ISHIKA SINGH, 29 “I like to style my outfits around the accessory I want to highlight. Oversized, tinted sunglasses have been huge…

Fresh-AF Skin The runway skin aesthetic has seen a massive shift over the last few years. With bare, glossy skin taking over, make-up artists are using less and less foundation every season, and relying on concealers to camouflage imperfections, if any. Add to that a hefty dose of highlighter, and you now have runway-worthy glow. And even though, this season, designers like Gucci, Balmain, and more chose to keep the face completely bare, adding a thin liner, a few coats of mascara, and a hint of colour on cheeks and lips will certainly add polish to the look. Golden Girls Yes, gold lids are trending. But this shade is constantly upping its game… thanks to the make-up pros wielding their magic brushes! Once thought of as somewhat flashy, this season’s…

Things that smell nice but won’t burn down your apartment. THE Woodsy ONE These bbs are full of earthy notes like sandalwood and patchouli—but in a ‘cosy Joshua Tree getaway’ way, not an ‘actually sleeping on the ground’ way. They are rich and calming and give off warmth, kind of like your favourite vintage cashmere sweater. HOW TO NAVIGATE THE (VIRTUAL) FRAGRANCE AISLE Stalk Your Past Faves Peep the notes on your old perfumes to help decode what you’re into. Judge the Packaging Think of it as a visual representation of the scent. Looks clean and minimalist? The stuff inside likely will be too. Stock Up On Minis Miniature ’fumes are your friend (truly, they’re, like, a fifth of the price). Study the Reviews Hit up BaseNotes.net and Fragrantica.com for…

LAKSHMI LEHR Celebrity Stylist “We all know that a good hair day can turn even a bad day into a great day! And to ensure that I never run out of ‘great days’, I rely on Balmain’s Texturizing Salt Spray. It’s the only product I use on a daily basis, and it gives my hair the perfect bounce and texture. Just a few spritzes is all I need.” ANUPRIYA GOENKA Actor “I give more importance to skincare over make-up. And one of my favourite things to do—my routine self-care, self-love ritual, if you will—is massaging my face with flaxseed oil. It’s something I swear by! It makes my skin supple and glowy. And when my skin looks good, I feel pretty good about myself!” DAISY SHAH Actor “As actors, we…

Fasting has been a common practice throughout human evolution. Historically, humans didn’t always have access to food all year round. Avoiding food for several hours was (and is) also observed in many religions and social customs across the globe. Our species, as a result, can function without food for extended periods of time. And while, over the years, we have had diet fads aplenty, a new trend that a lot of beauty, fitness, and wellness influencers are obsessed with at the moment is not eating during certain periods of time. Intermittent fasting, as the name suggests, is a timed approach, which involves alternating between periods of fasting and eating. Two of its most popular modes are fasting for 16 hours daily, and then eating meals in the remaining eight hours;…

ELIXIR SHOP Nikita Anand, CEO “Elixir Shop was co-founded by my mother [Dr Seema Anand] and I in 2016. We are a certified Ayurvedic brand offering a range of essential oil-based serums that tackle specific skin and hair concerns. Our brand has grown organically, through word of mouth, and we consider that a huge achievement. My mother designs the formulas, and it took her three years to create our first line. We were one of the first brands in India to use essential oils to create potent serums. Another one of our unique products is the Hair Fall Serum, which is supposed to be mixed with your shampoo and then applied—we are thrilled to say that it’s a one-of-a-kind innovation. We are certified by the Ministry of AYUSH, India, and…

Bare Anatomy All Day Hydrating Moisturizer, ₹2,250 (for a three-step regime) This homegrown brand has just launched a line of personalised skincare, formulated as per your unique skin requirements and concerns. Bonus: their science-backed formulations use clean ingredients that are ethically sourced and free of toxins. This moisturiser is part of the three-step regime, and promises to hydrate parched skin, and keep it soft and supple all day long. The Mom’s Co. Natural Age Control Night Cream, ₹798 Featuring the It ingredient of the moment, bakuchiol—a natural alternative to retinol—this cream targets fines lines and wrinkles. Other ingredients include niacinamide, hyaluronic acid and natural Vitamin E, which restore firmness and smoothness while you sleep. The result: healthy, glowing skin in the AM. Kiko Milano Wonder Woman Power Flush, ₹1,190 This lipstick…

It’s time to turn to the heavens and indulge in some star gazing! Aquarius 20.01–18.02 Compatibility with bae might take a hit this month as you get busy with other priorities. Mars and Venus work in tandem to boost love prospects for single Aquarians, but a word of caution: do not rush into a new relationship. A splendid month for professionals—you will find all the support you need from your work fam to progress smoothly (yay!). With abundant ka-ching pouring in, you can indulge in a bit of retail therapy, too. Good health will keep your spirits high. Pisces 19.02–20.03 Exuding warmth and compassion, you are likely to be more flexible when it comes to matters of the heart. Singles can possibly attract the right matches with their charm. Being…

Let’s say you’re about to transition from the backbreaking work of sitting on your couch while you WFH to binge-watching the night away. You’re probs gonna go with an old fave that will let your brain go numb (aka you know its entire plot, down to which episode to skip). But ppl listen: there are so many great shows you *haven’t* seen before that have similar themes to the ones you love, plus 2020 takes that will make you think the big thoughts (in a good way). And now you won’t even suffer any Branching Out stress, because we made you this list of newish must-sees. If You Love THE OFFICE TRY BROOKLYN NINE-NINE As many of us miss going to work (enough WFH now!), this cop comedy might just…

THE TRICK It’s an accessory that lends itself to other accessories, so don’t shy away from loading up on other, zany bbs: baubles, sunglasses, masks, the works. Scarf It Up! There’s something so Parisian-chic about this little piece of cloth, it ‘haute-coutures’ almost any ensemble! And the nippier weather seems to make an even stronger case for this silken accessory: seen adorning many a neckline layered over clothes, even plaited in hair, or simply tied around the head as bands, wraps and bandanas. (And in a deluge of prints.) Match your scarf with your outfit. Clash with a print you have on. Or consider a scarf-print outfit to take things to the next level.…

THE TRICK Be fully sorbet-ed out! Try these dreamy colours head-to-toe, in the same shade or diff pieces in diff tones. Style with catchy, luxe accessories (+ slick hair and a bold mouth) to ace the race! Hey, there softie! Orange sherbets, pistachio greens, baby blues, pale pinks, calming lavenders, etc… it is the soft shades making the loudest noise this season. The perfect palate cleansers after deep-hued outings, they pair well with other, similar milky hues. And, when picked cleverly, can be the hero pieces to any ensemble! FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN…

WELCOME TO CAPE TOWN All (fashion) superheroes are wearing capes this season. TBH, its return for the winter is hardly surprising, but the latest iteration is togged up in a sophisticated, vintage-bourgeois vibe. So, you don’t necessarily have to schlep any cumbersome woollen coats to get in on the trend, this time around, they come tacked on your dresses, in a throng of fabrics. Emanate the same sense of ‘power’ in a sculptural, mid-length revision, like presented at Givenchy, or pick a lustrous, floor-sweeping iteration, like Balmain’s, to be party-royalty. Or, consider Valentino’s all-leather version to make an impactful entrance. Pick silhouettes with conspicuous elements, like supersized collars, puffed/domed shoulders, ruffles, bows etc, to dramatise x 2 the spectacle. But keep your accessories to bare essentials, perhaps just one statement…

Botanical Benefits The Everlasting Foundation features the exclusive Clarins triple anti-pollution, anti-radical, and anti-UV protection formula. And that’s not all: the organic quinoa extract, combined with the Plant Micropatch, helps maintain skin’s moisture levels. And the mattifying bamboo powder, paired with the High Fidelity System+ technology, delivers long-lasting, flawless finish. Keep Shining, Minus the Shine We looked at the back of the packaging to find this bomb piece of info about this formula… It’s got hyaluronic acid and Vitamin E that soothe and hydrate skin. And, the formula also features a blend of bamboo powder and kaolin clay, which, together, keep excess oil and shine at bay. Yes, it is a foundation, and it works towards perfecting your skin, too. The weightless formula is crease-, sweat-, and humidity-resistant, and also…

For most of us, spending our summer months social distancing meant that we had to dabble in a bit of DIY beauty. From at-home waxing to haphazard hair colouring, we got creative when it came to self-care. But now, hair and beauty salons across the country have reopened, and while we’ve gladly waved goodbye to some of our newfound skills (fringe trims are definitely best left to the pros), the effects of lockdown can still be seen in the rise of at-home beauty tech. Adapting to the need for a more socially distanced approach to beauty, brands have dreamed up new-age devices that claim to do everything from rebooting collagen production to clearing out pores. But can the tech in our bathroom cabinets really rival a clinical treatment? Let’s find…

LIPSTICK ROULETTE One can never have too many lipsticks. And if you are looking at adding a selection of nudes, pinks, or reds to your collection, we have a few suggestions that are worth considering! #Trending A GLITZ BLITZ Okay, we know that the runways have been dripping with all metallic everything for many seasons now…but we are literally freaking out at the cool new way backstage pros decided to spin this sparkly trend. Yes, 2020 has been a bit much and a bad*ss ’do might just be the distraction you need. Enter: metallic hair. And we aren’t talking streaks, we are talking full-blown metallic locks! We love Marni and Erdem’s take on the trend. IRL, you can achieve this effect with loose glitter + mixing medium + hair chalk…

It’s a classic movie plot: couple starts an epic screaming match with each other, then mid-fight, one partner pushes the other up against the wall, they kiss oh-so passionately, and things escalate to hot, steamy make-up sex. (I mean, raise your hand if that scene from The Notebook still leaves you hot and bothered.) The argument = over. Relationship = restored. The end. You and I both know this actually happens IRL, too. Whenever my ex and I would argue, I’d immediately want to tackle him—not in a physical fight kind of way, but more in like an I-suddenly-need-to-jump-your-bones way. The make-up sex was always soooo good. Why is this a thing? Is there a link between being angry and horny? Or are we all just kinky AF? After speaking…

A day before this interview was scheduled, Alaya Furniturewala—or Alaya F as she prefers to be called—had boarded a flight to Dubai, for her first “proper” holiday this year. “I don’t know after how looong I’ve stepped out,” she says enthusiastically over the phone the next day. “I can’t tell you how much I am enjoying myself!” Happy to be vicariously transported to vacay-lands, I gladly probe deeper…what are her plans, what’s on the itinerary, the works. “You know, I went to eat out last night, and it felt other-worldly! I can’t even remember the last time I went to a restaurant and saw people around me…it was really nice. So yeah, there’s a lot of safe going-out on the cards!” The break is a well-deserved one, that the newcomer…

GET IT RIGHT While many consider floral print feminine, the right mix of colours and patterns can help create a romantic yet modern space. Try mixing masculine and feminine hues (like pinks and blues, or greys and reds) for a stylish, refined feel. If you don’t want a full-blown wallpaper or wing chair in your nook, consider smaller pieces like a vase, photo frame, painting, or an accent pillow to liven up a room.…

ANIMAL KINGDOM Yeah we know, feels like you’ve seen a lot of it lately, but trust us, you haven’t really! From the usual big cats (leopards, tigers, et al) to snakes, zebras, giraffes, cows, and more, this style-jungle just keeps evolving, splattered on clothes to shoes, bags, and even baubles. We suggest you ditch tamer versions for more madcap options (via textures, fabrics, silhouettes) to use this print for what it’s actually meant to do this season: S.T.A.N.D.O.U.T. A BOHEMIAN RHAPSODY Remember Sienna Miller and Kate Moss at their hippiest best? This is that, but with a more luxe glow-up: a more dressed-up free-spiritedness, if you please. The paraphernalia comprises relaxed maxis, tiered dresses, flowy kaftans, peasant blouses, and more, in georgettes, crepes, silks and satins, complete with plush accents…

Cosmo: Who is the most inspirational woman in your life? Shuba: “Rihanna. Since the beginning of her career, she’s always stayed true to herself and her values.” C: What’s the one thing that’s not good for you, but you always do? S: “Playing the comparison game on social media.” C: What song is guaranteed to get you on the dance floor? S: “Anything from 2008. I know that’s oddly specific, but that’s when we got Katy Perry, Lady Gaga, and Ariana Grande.” C: If you could collaborate with any artist in the world, who would it be? S: “Freddie Mercury, hands down. It would also be a dream to collaborate with Eminem and Rihanna.” C: What song could you listen to on repeat for the rest of your life? S:…

FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN…

THE TRICK Pick alluring bbs pieced together in the most outlandish styles and designs, for an instant all-look-hither update! FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN"…

Cosmo: Can layering skincare help us get better skin? Dr Howard Murad: “It can help you, but sometimes, too much layering can result in diminished benefits from individual products. Layering two to three products on a daily basis is best to reap maximum benefits.” C: And what kind of products can one layer together? DHM: “Typically, acne and anti-ageing, or hydration and dark circles or dullness repair formulas go well together. You can also have different morning and night routines, where you can switch up your treatments. For instance, mornings can be focused on brightening treatments like a Vitamin C serum. And at night, you can focus on fine lines and wrinkles with a retinol-based serum.” C: What products would you recommend for a beginner’s kit? DHM: “You should always…

Don’t take it personally, but your make-up bag is absolutely disgusting. Probably. And that random bag under the bed filled with half-used hair masks and eyeliners. Oh, and your vanity table, if you’re lucky enough to have one rather than leaving your beloved palettes, well, on the floor. It’s fine—we’re all low-key gross and far too busy to religiously disinfect every make-up brush that touches our faces, so zero judgement here, sis. However, scientists are providing some pretty inconvenient truths. It turns out our make-up bags could be petri dishes for grime, aka bacteria that’s grown resistant to medicine. In a recent study, researchers at Aston University in England found E. coli, staphylococcus, and fungi with high levels of antibiotic resistance in nine out of 10 make-up bags. But panic…

The mercury has dropped and there’s a chill in the air! It’s time to welcome winter vibes with a wardrobe filled with pieces that will keep you warm and cosy. Delve into the world of lush materials, moody colours and bold prints with the latest trends at DLF Avenue, Saket. Embrace the beauty of the season with an array of stylish winter wear from millennial-favourite brands like Desigual, Perona, Jack & Jones, Vero Moda, ONLY, Minizmo, Uniqlo, Under Armour, Marks & Spencer, among many more. Whether you’re someone who prefers their classics like fur coats or black-on-black, or you want to get a bit spunkier with a bright neon look, there’s something for everyone’s taste at the shopping landmark. Keeping the fact that Delhi winters can be rough in mind,…

Mostly As You’re in lust. And, TBH, that sounds great and fun. Enjoy the late-night dates, the sex, and the freedom of being in something non-committal. But maybe pump the brakes if you’re thinking you might want more than this, unless of course, they’re into solidifying a situationship into something more. Whatever you do, be sure you want to be around them way more often than just Fridays at 2am, ya feel? Mostly Bs You’re in love. Eek, I hate to break it to you, but you’re disgustingly, ridiculously in love with this person. Doesn’t it suck? Isn’t it wonderful? Can you even believe some of the outrageous thoughts you’re having? Well, believe it. Love is rare and ~*~special~*~ and doesn’t come all the time (for most people, anyway). Embrace…

THESE BOOTS WERE MADE FOR Traveling in all of AW/20’s best old-school trends, obviously. What were you about to say? BEAUTY BONUS Speeding around top-down is all fun and games…until you take a look at your hair in the rearview mirror. Tame annoying flyaways fast with L’Oréal Paris Extraordinary Shine Serum, ₹499. SKIRTING THE ISSUE Side slits = the only way to comfortably wear one of these for hours in a car. It’s the range of motion and no fear of wardrobe malfunctions. OKAY, MS ELLE WOODS Fact: a pink suit honestly looks great in both a courtroom *and* a random hotel’s lobby. DISTRACTION TACTIC No-one can yell at you for getting up on the counter when you’re mesmerising them with sparkles and fringe (and also gorge Valentino boots). GET…

Q I am obsessed with the illuminated skin seen on the runway. But no matter what I do, I am not able to replicate the look. I don’t like OD-ing on highlighter as I’m not a fan of shimmer, but I want to look ‘lit’. What’s the secret? A: The secret sauce is an illuminating moisturiser. If your skin is not well-rested and hydrated, no amount of make-up can recharge it. What you need is a product designed specifically to ‘wake up’ your skin. This one by Glamglow, enriched with hyaluronic acid, vitamins, and Teaoxi golden root technology, instantly tackles dullness, and floods skin with moisture. Plus, the illuminating pearl particles in the formula leave you looking radiant by blurring imperfections and reflecting light. Q I have very fine, oily…

We all deserve the magic that is fresh basil on a large pile of tomatoes and mozz—without the tender patience it takes to raise an entire plant. And now, because nature, water, and these genius instructions exist, you can create a very simple (and also very cute) garden in, like, 10 minutes. Here, allow us to help you help your herb children grow into strong, independent, edible adults… STEP 1 Take some sprigs of almost any herb (think: basil, chives, mint, thyme, oregano) and pluck the leaves off their lower stems. Then cut each stem base at a 45-degree angle. STEP 2 Stick your sprigs in cups or jars of tap or filtered water so that the stems are fully submerged. Place them in a spot with lots of sunlight…