Indholdsfortegnelse for September 2020 i Cosmopolitan India

I’m a devotee of To-Do lists. I have been making them for as long as I can remember, and I tend to create a daily one for work, a weekly one for groceries and chores, and a few hundred random lists for dinner party guests, travel essentials, great songs to download, books to read, and more… I like the idea of neat little directories because they not only offer structure and help me get things done, but because they also give me a sense of control in a life that can sometimes feel crazy. Recently, though, I came across a new kind of list—the To-Be List. And I believe this rendition could hold the secret to a happier, more gratified life. A To-Be List, unlike its stimulating sister, is not…

1 ‘Two colours’ is your new mantra Your layered sitch won’t be as impressive if it all blends together, so ditch the all-black and embrace brights. Alternating two hues guarantees that everyone can peep your new know-how. 2 Don’t ignore your bottom half Wear fun socks or tights with skirts, dresses, or flowy pants (even better if those pants are shorter or have side slits) for expertlevel layering. And to, uh, duh, stay warm. 3 Oh, also, texture is your friend Mix! Up! Materials! Chunky knits, quilted jackets, pleated pants, leather shoes—it all creates more visual interest.…

NEONS ARE BACK! Dresses in bold, bright neons are back with a bang. No matter what the occasion, you can never go wrong with your favourite neon this summer. GO PRINT-CRAZY! Trippy, psychedelic prints are trending right now. And dresses with colourful, geometric patterns will inject added interest to your look.…

IN THE MOOD FOR BUG 1 BHAVYA RAMESH “If there’s one thing we’ve learnt recently, it’s to appreciate the little things. Like this handcrafted bug brooch, made with recycled sterling silver by artisans in Jaipur. I like the pop of colour added by the turquoise and semi-precious coral additions—a clever way to brighten up silver.” Bug Brooch `1,900 2 GLASS SUTRA “I like a piece that can double as a conversation starter, and this handcrafted, glass ring speaks for itself. It has been created entirely with the flamework technique, and each extension and dot has been added by hand. It’s like wearing a work of art!” Shion Ring, ₹3,169 3 NAPPA DORI “Since 2020 has been about learning so many new skills, a backpack makes perfect sense—it’s like going back…

WET LOOK IS BACK Faux drenched hair is definitely hawt right now. Think Kim K at the Met Gala, but minus the corset! You can style your hair however you like, but it’s not as simple as slappin‘ on some gel to achieve the desired effect. The trick lies in mixing a strong-hold gel with styling cream, and finishing up with shine spray to keep the locks glossy and your preferred ’do in place. CHIC CASES With micro bags making a huge style statement, it’s only fair that your precious iPhone AirPods are stored in nothing less than designwear…something we have abundant options for this season. You can take your pick from these quirky, logo-ed, or bedazzled styles.…

ARIES A born leader, who is unafraid to try new things, this bold, shimmery red is perfect for you. Tom Ford Shadow Extreme Flat in Garnet Red, ₹3,200 TAURUS You like keepin‘ it real and this earthy-bronze stunner will bring out your true elements! Stila Shimmer & Glow Liquid Eye Shadow in La Douce, ₹2,200 GEMINI This gel-creme formula, offering sheer to bold finish, is a match for your playful personality. Estée Lauder Pure Color Envy Shadowpaint in Wicked Peach, ₹2,250 CANCER Hey, Moon Princess, here is a holographic top-up for your sparkling eyes. Pixi Liquid Fairy Lights in Crystalline, ₹1,460 LEO The Goddess in you wouldn’t approve of anything less than dripping gold…and your peepers deserve the same! Magnetic Eye Shadow in Gold Digger, ₹750 VIRGO This dual-toned shadow…

Okay, not that you need more of an incentive to wear a face mask (liiike, helping to protect you and those around you from the spread of COVID-19 should be enough TBH), but we’re about to give you one anyway: matching your face mask with your manicure is officially a thing. We’re talking cute-*ss polish and nail art that coordinates perfectly with your cloth mask (think: matching prints, colour schemes, designs, et al). Trust us when we say you’re about to see this trend all over your Insta feed. And, you know, your friend’s nails! So, to get you started on the trend, we rounded up the nine coolest mask and mani combos that you’ll want to start playing around with, pronto! BTW: a lot of these nail art designs…

Q Working from home has really taken a toll on me, mentally and physically. I’m always so tired! How can I fix this? A: We have a scientific and an aromatic solution for you. As per a recent survey by Blue Jeans, given the new WFH model, people are logging an additional 3.13 hours on an average, and super-productive beings are logging 4.64 extra hours each day…which can be pretty draining, to say the least! Taking short breaks after finishing each task will help you celebrate small achievements, and also take your mind away from work. Try taking a warm bath before going to bed, as ithelps relax the muscles. You can even put a few drops of essential oils like lavender in your bath water to soothe your senses,…

Cosmo: You’re an actor, producer, writer, podcast host… how do you juggle it all? Aasif Mandvi: “It comes from struggling, initially, and not knowing if I’d ever get another acting gig. So I was always creating projects for myself. There were practically no South Asian or Indian actors in Hollywood then, and I knew if I didn’t do it for myself, no-one else would. Even today, I like to keep many balls in the air. But it also comes from an immigrant mindset, where I can never rest on my laurels, and have to keep pushing forward. I guess it’s also how I deal with my anxious artist temperament.” C: An achievement you’re most proud of? AM: “On a personal level, it’d be getting married and starting a family. You…

Aavriti Jain Jewellery Designer “You’ll always spot a Casio watch on me…I have been collecting all their editions, since college. I’m not big on earrings or necklaces, only accessories on the wrists. I Iike minimal, stackable pieces, in a mix of gold and silver.” Bhavya Ramesh Jewellery Designer “I wanted to create a sharp ’everyday’ look. I’ve paired bracelets with a watch (my mum’s, which I never take off), and a tribal bangle. It’s a blend of Indian and contemporary, casual and edgy, much like my personal style.” Natasha Luthra Blogger “This is how I usually dress up my wrist, with lots of gold! And I always wear this Dior band…it’s a gift from my best friend. If I wear heavy earrings or a necklace, I go easy on the…

MENKA MISHRA, 24 “Channelling my inner diva, I opted for this bold red number with puffed sleeves. Complementing it are my conch shell and beaded strings, layered to perfection, along with a pair of drop earrings for an extra dose of glamour.” MITALI NARKHEDA, 20 “What is life without a bit of drama? I decided to dress up this basic, black cropped top-and-cycling shots combo with a grey blazer and some of my favourite accessories. Like the bejewelled ‘BABE’ choker, silver link anklets (that I wore over my boots for a fun twist), and matching link-chain sunglasses. The bubblegum-pink backpack is just the pop of colour I needed to finish strong.” NISTHA SARAF, 33 “I’ve upgraded my basic yellow top with the help of this beachappropriate shell neckpiece and straw…

1. You are three years deep in Instagram stalkage and can’t lose your place. 2. You’re really busy with your sixth quarter-life crisis of the week. 3. Your grandma hasn’t washed her face in 70 years and she’s fine. 4. You’ve been cast in the next season of Indian Matchmaking and your pristine contour isn’t going anywhere once you step out of that limo. You’re justhere to find love, okay? 5. You spent a sh*t tonne of time on your cat eyeliner and are positive you’ll never be able to do one this crisp again. 6. Your remote’s pause button is broken and you can either miss the Real Housewives finale or wash off your beat, so. 7. You’re now in love with your across-the-street neighbour and you want to…

MINIMAL CLASSIC Clean silhouettes are deemed classic for a reason—there is something so versatile about them. A crisp white shirt, or a trench coat, or black trousers are the kind of pieces that don’t just form the foundation of any great wardrobe, but also push you to find creative new ways to style them. If this is your go-to style, a floral-woody scent like Narciso is the perfect ’fume for you. DELICATE ROMANCE If, while shopping, you inevitably reach out for flowing silhouettes in wispy fabrics, accented with pastel colours and delicate prints, then you are, likely, an eternal romantic. While elegant accessories pair beautifully with your feminine style, a floral scent can further amp up the vibe. Add a hint of blush-pink highlighter to the mix, and you’re (rose)…

AN EASY WAY TO GET GLOWING We can't thank science enough for making our beauty routines easier—sheet masks, beauty capsules, wireless styling tools are all proof of that. Another fun thing that we absolutely adore are glow pads packed with AHAs, BHAs, antioxidants, and more. Dipped in potent potions, these pads are an easy-peasy way to get clearer, smoother, brighter skin by just regularly swiping them on your face. THE FUN NEW 'DO IN TOWN If you are looking to change things up in the hair colour department and don't want to commit to anything drastic, Autumn/Winter 2020 has brought along plenty of fuss-free, DIY inspo. Starting with the Dries Van Noten show, where models sashayed down the runway with slick hair featuring patches of bright-AF colour oozing out of…

“I am definitely more aware of the voice I have, and I feel more confident and comfortable in my skin…” “There was no chance of me ever looking at men in a negative light because of him [my grandfather], and my father, even my brother… who are all feminists.” The last time I spoke to Athiya Shetty was more than two years ago…which now feels like a different time, a different world, a different dimension. And battling a pandemic is just one of the things that has changed between then and now. At that time, Athiya was coming into her own as an actor…but as an individual, she knew exactly what she wanted and how she wanted it. We discussed everything from her being a staunch feminist to social media,…

We all *thought* we were anxious in 2019. Then 2020 hit like a ’90s infomercial, reminding us: but wait, there’s more! Now, physically separated from the people, places, and therapists we love, we’re suddenly very interested in appointmentand prescription-free anxiety treatments. Even if those treatments are basically…um, jewellery?! Specifically, the stick-on ear constellation kits blowing up on IG and Amazon RN—and in acupuncturists’ DMs. USbased Mona Dan of ear-seedmaker Vie Healing says prospective buyers have been late-night messaging her about them since April, wondering just how—and how well—they work. Here’s the answer: THEY’RE NOT (SUPER) SCIENCE-BACKED For decades, Chinese-medicine practitioners and acupuncturists have used this form of auricular therapy to combat anxiety, pain, insomnia, and more. The idea is that by taping the seeds (traditionally, actual flower seeds, hence the…

Achieving your biggest goals is a high like no other. But the road to success is littered with the 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(s) that we can’t see the small picture, and don’t 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…

PRINTED IMPRESSIONS Suiting for women this season is all about busting bounds. So what was once reserved for board meetings is now doing the rounds…everywhere! Loosening up its stiff-collar image, suits now come in versions that range from slouchy to opulent, structured and form-fitting, to boxy and relaxed! We say pick one in a zany print for some fun. Or mix and match prints and patterns, consider details like padded shoulders, utility pockets, and waist belts—worn over tees, bralettes, good old button-downs (even knits when the weather gets nippier). (MONO) TONE IT UP! Go minimalist in neutrals or be extra extra in neons. While the pairing rules don’t change much, for a more standout stint with this one, choose avant-garde pieces—like ones in plush fabrics (risqué lace? Feminine silk?), or…

Think of this as the other aestheticextreme of your ‘toocorporate’, classic suit. And no holds barred. So run amok with your iterations! Just choose pieces that stand out, by way of their fit, material, or shade, to be set apart. Here are some examples. DO THE DENIM Denim on denim is huge RN. But an off-centre pair makes for an instant update to the trend. SUCHA SOFTIE Monotoned pastels may not scream for attention, but they make a strong case for ‘all eyes here’ when armed with details like ruching, a sweetheart neckline, and drawstrings! PRINT-A-PAT Prints have the superpower to zing up the casual, or ease up the dressy, alike. From small motifs to in-your-face biggies, or all splattered together, choose what you like to serve the purpose. GLAM…

HOLIDAY SLIDES Flop, flop, flop…do you know what that sound is? It’s what relaxation sounds like! The humble hotel-room slides unleased their high fashion side a few years ago, and have been presented in many a form ever since. HOW TO WORK IT Slides with satin knots, criss-cross stitching, raffia, embroidery, et al, are as comfortable as flip-flops, and perfect for daytime. You can pair them with anything from a just-above-the-ankle tunic or a cropped-jeans-and-tee combo to show off your feet and them pretty slides. While the metallic, embellished, and beaded options are almost as chic as party heels…so if you want to be comfy during a night out, wear them with a modern, satin pyjama set or a slip dress. PRO TIP Since slides expose your ankles, they’re the…

GET THIS! FAN-NING WANDERLUST! If you miss travelling as much as we do (*wipes tears as types*), how about getting a taste of some exotic locales…vicariously?! Gucci's latest Resort Collection is an ode to some of the world's most coveted tropical islands, beach towns, and nightlife destinations. Inspired by the likes of the French Riviera, Hawaii, Capri, Mykonos, and more, the collection comprises woven tote bags (with personalised leather tags mentioning each location), in vivid colours, and big enough to be perfect travel partners. BTW, there's also matching pouches, fedoras, and stoles to choose from. Ah, how the next holiday beckons! HEY THERE, DRAMA QUEEN When it comes to fashion, the memo in 2020 has been loud and clear: 'Go big or go home'. In your silhouettes, sleeves, shoulders, everything!…

TAKE ME BACK! A TWIST IN THE TALE Bored of messy top buns? We’ve got something from the Victorian era that will totally catch your fancy! This Little Women-esque ’do takes only a few minutes, and is a great (romantic) option for your next FaceTime date night. Start by spritzing dry shampoo to refresh the roots—it’ll also help lift ’em. Then, create a centre parting and pull back a section of hair on each side in a twist, and secure it with a pin. BBlunt Back To Life Dry Shampoo in Spring Fling, ₹550 This step can totally be skipped, but we’re really into romantic waves ATM. Taking a small section of hair at a time, create soft waves using a curling tong to relive your Victorian princess fantasy. Philips…

Hi, we know: now *did* seem like an excellent time to completely and radically alter your skincare routine. So you slathered on that weird, probably expired cream your aunt gave you two years ago? Nice! Restarted the retinol that destroyed your skin last time around, but who cares now? Sure! LOADED UP on those sorta scary peel pads that kinda (definitely) smell like really acidic acid? Congrats! Your sanity is burning—why not your face, too?! Okay, so in hindsight, maybe doing all the things was not the best idea (don’t worry, not even beauty editors are immune). But there’s good news: we know exactly what you need to calm your sh*t down and get back to your regularly scheduled non-skin freakouts. The~YIKES ~ You Piled On the Acids “Acids break…

First up, fact: not all sugars are bad for your body. And, to reap the benefits, you don’t necessarily need to go totally sugar-free. You just have to show ‘bad sugars’ the door, and exercise control. According to experts, there are two kinds of sugars: natural sugars, like those found in fruits, honey, unsweetened milk and other naturallysweet bestowals. These contain vitamins and minerals. And then there are the refined or free sugars, like those found in fizzy drinks, energy drinks, fruit beverages, etc. These are processed from sugarcane and sugar beets, are high in calories, and have no real nutritional value. Le sigh. While the former, in moderation, isn’t harmful (unless you have any specific conditions, of course), the latter is bad-baby stuff. The World Health Organisation recommends “a…

FIND OUT 1. Still sleeping with that one-eared, barely stuffed bunny you got for your third birthday? a. RIP, I donated that thing years ago. b. She’s still the centerpiece of my bedscape. c. It may or may not be hanging out in the back of my closet. 2. Give us a status update on that dirty-dish mountain in your sink. a. You’ve got some bad intel. My kitchen has nary a dust particle, TYVM. b. Fiiiiine, they’ve been piling up for the past three days. Technically, four. c. Gonna watch one more episode of The Office and then I’ll do it. 3. Quick: what’s your go-to Starbs order? a. Venti Pike, whole milk, two Splendas. b. Can we still order Unicorn Frapps? Asking for a friend (me!). c. A…

OMBRÉ > EVERYTHING We don’t know what we’re more obsessed with: this smushy face or this modern (and very easy) take on the trendy gradient manicure. Your turn: paint each nail with one of three different polishes in the same colour fam (like hot pink, magenta, and red). And…that’s it, you’re done! Unless you insist on making it chipfree and extra shiny—then, layer on a longwear top coat (Colorbar Plump It Up Top Coat, ₹399). FASHION NAILS! German shepherd + gold accessories + Chanel nail art = the answer to all our problems RN. Your turn: start with two coats of a sheer neutral (like O.P.I Nail Lacquer in Bare My Soul, ₹850). Once it’s completely dry, use a striping brush and a deepred polish to paint thin lines along…

Aquarius 20.01–18.02 Venus, the planet of love, blesses you with a whole lot of romance from the 7th. Singles will discover love at the most surprising (strange!) places. Not such good news: career prospects seem dim this month as there is disparity between the hard work you put in and the rewards you receive. Workplace dynamics might be off, too. But don’t fret, continue to work hard…the future looks bright. This is an excellent month for health, and keeps you feeling energised and optimistic! Best to stay away from stressful situations, and prioritise wisely for best results. Pisces 19.02–20.03 Don’t let your financial preoccupations impact your love life, Pisces! Mercury helps singles find fulfilling relationships, although there could be some commitment issues. Work prospects look good, and support from colleagues and…