Indholdsfortegnelse for August 2019 i Cosmopolitan India

CAN VISUALISATION CHANGE YOUR LIFE? A few years ago, I misplaced a cat. My friend’s feline, Leo, was staying with me while her mom was travelling, and on Day 2, I woke up to find him missing. I spent all day and night searching the streets, putting up ‘Lost Cat’ posters, going door to door to check if any neighbours had seen a tabby cat, and basically driving myself into a puddle of guilt and tears. On Night 5, there was still no news of Leo. I had made myself physically sick with angst by then, and decided I would call my friend the next day, to give her the terrible news. That night, as I tossed and turned in bed, I remembered something I had read about visualisation and…

The Boiler Suit? Although it’s been around for decades, the boiler suit is moving up our wardrobe must-have list at a rapid pace. Here’s how to work the glammeets-utility look… IT HAS MANY TALENTS It channels the utilitarian aesthetic—but you can also make it glam. Unzip (or unbutton) the top, and layer it over a T-shirt for casual street style. Or elevate it with a peekaboo lace bra and heeled boots or mules for a feminine twist. IT CAME, IT CONQUERED It was once a workman’s uniform: the ‘protective overalls’ worn for manual labour. It’s been a thing since World War II. But where men previously dominated it, women are now owning it. It’s gained popularity among celebs such as Rita Ora, Gigi Hadid, and Lena Dunham. IT’S A CHIC…

Riddhi Parekh “The idea behind each image is to showcase women as individuals, without any bias or prejudice, and let the viewers decide the takeaway. I want to normalise being an individual, regardless of their gender. And, at the very least, bring these women of diverse backgrounds, ages and cultures to the fore, so everyone can see their points of view and hear their stories. It’s simple: sometimes, seeing is believing.” Shatabdi Chakrabarti “I think it’s important for female photographers to photograph women as there is a definite shift in the ‘gaze’. I’m a heavily tattooed woman myself, and have been researching the subject for years now. I mainly document stories around this art form to understand the dichotomy that exists in it for women: in traditional, tribal spaces, tattoos…

JUNGLE JAMBOREE Leopard print is now a classic, but this season saw an uprising in snakeskin, cow, and deer prints. While an animal-print co-ord set is great for making a statement, these pieces work well as separates too. Pair them with monotoned-anything to break the visual chaos. CHECK, PLEASE! If you thought checks are best reserved for boring boardroom sessions, you couldn’t be more wrong! With options ranging from skort suit-sets to rad colour-clashed ones, edgy belt details and more, you can work any room (at work or a party) with these babies. THE KNIT JOB Looking at this season’s offerings, we wish we had saved everything our grandma was knitting back in the days! Knitted co-ord sets don’t just look super-stylish, they’re also perfect for the nippy weather. Bonus:…

BRIGHT LINER All the rage at the moment, put on a bold colour and let your lids live their best life! BRIGHT LASHES All coloured mascara wands down, please. TODDLER BANGS A little extra length means even easier! easier styling. And an effective ironing tool makes the job BABY BANGS Fun but a real pain to maintain. IRL BROWS Full, feathered, and lightly tinted—they’re your real brows, just with more oomph. INSTA BROWS For your feed, not your face. SLEEK LOW PONY When it’s humid as hell and a thousand degrees, this slick style is the chicest way to keep cool. SLEEK HIGH PONY Thank U, Next.…

Fashion is in a great space right now—stylish workout gear that works both for your gym sessions and a night-out with friends are all the rage ATM. And hummel, the 95-year-old Danish Sport Style Brand, has got the athleisure memo bang-on. Offering relaxed silhouettes in eye-catching colours and fun styles, the brand has everything an ‘athleisure junkie’ could ask for. We got actor Rakul Preet Singh to sport hummel’s most-coveted this-season pieces, and dish out her fitness mantra along with what she loves about this trend. These styles are now available on hummel’s website www.hummel.net.in and their stores: Bangalore, Chennai, Surat, Pune, and Amritsar. MONOTONE MAGIC Sporting a single-toned outfit is hardly news, but an athleisure co-ord set can win you some major style points. It’s the perfect outfit for…

You’ve heard it a million times: ‘Think positively, be grateful!’ It’s become virtually impossible to scroll down your Instagram feed without seeing a barrage of posts with messages like, ‘Inhale The Good, Exhale The Bad’. It’s a #PositiveVibes takeover! Yet, when ‘life happens’, no amount of positive thinking, laws of attraction, and self-help books seem to work. In fact, we find ourselves feeling emptier than ever. So while positive thinking is well-intentioned, it only works when you allow for negative thinking as well. Don’t believe us? Studies at Harvard and Stanford have actually proven that ignoring or overexpressing unresolved emotions is actually toxic. The next time you feel terrible because you’ve lost your job, boyfriend, or a loved one, and anyone tells you to be grateful, positive and strong, just…

If we had to guess, we’d bet you’re wearing the wrong foundation right now. That’s not to say you’re totally clueless, it just means there are a billion different shades, finishes, formulas, and coverage levels to choose from, making your base both as customisable and confusing as your Starbucks order. But don’t freak—we’re here to help you figure it out. SHADE MATCHING 101 STEP 1 TRY ON SOME JEWELLERY You already know where you fall on the basic foundation spectrum—light, medium, dark, or somewhere in between. The right undertone though? Trickier. “It’s a secondary colouring—warm, cool, or neutral—that determines which shade complements your skin,” says US-based make-up artist Robin Black. To find yours, pull out your necklaces and bracelets. If gold looks best against your skin, you have a warm…

Q My hands have been feeling super dry and flakey of late… Help! A: Well, chances are it’s because of weather changes and it should get better on its own. Sometimes even washing your hands too many times can lead to dry hands. A good, nourishing hand cream will come to your rescue—use it a few times daily, especially right before you hit snooze as our skin repairs itself while we are asleep. These ones by The Face Shop and Innisfree are super-nourishing and non-sticky, and take their job quite seriously. Just slather some on your palms a few times a day and let ’em work their magic. Q I’m not big on foundation and like to keep my look natural. What can I use to camouflage imperfections and add…

Now and then, I like a bit of drama. And this pleated circular skirt by Rahul Mishra, ₹3,990 is just that. I’d pair it with a crisp white shirt, and sleek black pumps for a sharp look. Yes, mismatched earrings are still a thing! The trend has been around for a while and, by the looks of it, isn’t budging any time soon. Take these gold, textured pieces by Flowerchild by Shaheen Abbas, ₹5,900 for example. They are perfect for adding a touch of bling and edge to your outfit. Sometimes, we all need a li’l cheer-me-up. On those days, wear this vivid yellow organza skirt (with laser-cut leather appliqués) by Vidhi Wadhwani, ₹18,500 with a classic white shirt or a sexy bralet. Featuring beads, cutdana, and silk thread embroidery,…

With many coveted laurels already ticked off, new achievements on the cards, and a bunch of firsts in the offing, Katrina Kaif seems to be on an ‘onwards and upwards’ trajectory in the real sense of the phrase. An established ‘bankable star’, all of her last four films crossed the `100-crore mark globally. She will next be seen in Rohit Shetty’s Sooryavanshi opposite Akshay Kumar—the teaser has already received one million views on Instagram in just a fortnight of its release. But that’s in 2020. Before that, as we find out, there’s a whole lot lined up! Starting with her new role as the brand ambassador of Reebok India. Talking to Cosmopolitan India on her latest stint, the actor also lets us in on the beauty venture she is going…

Metal Mania Beam me up, Scotty! The fashion world has been obsessed with high shine for some time now. But AW19 has taken things to the next level: it’s not just plain ol‘ foil-finish metallics anymore; it’s also about liquid-metal illusions, through iridescent sequins, glistening leather, and shiny, reflective fabrics. Hues That Girl? A trend so bright, you’ll need shades to face it! JK, JK…AW19 runways were awash with catchy, zesty colours—think, shocking pinks, acid greens, canary yellows. The most wearable (nay, recommended) way to wear acid colours is with some stoic black—perfect for balance and style cred. Yes, You Should(er)! Talk about ‘shouldering’ some serious style-responsibilities…we are crushing on everything bold shoulder-y ATM. A far cry from its Dynasty version, this 1980s’ reissue lends ‘power dressing’ a new width…

IT’S AQUATASTIC If you’re a water-sports enthusiast, Super-LumiNova®, from Longines’ HydroConquest Collection is just for you. Featuring a unidirectional rotating bezel, screw-down crown and case back, it preserves the traditional style of diving watches. The range has been given a contemporary update, thanks to a highly technical and ceramic bezel, an ergonomic design, and a brilliant strap that matches the dial. NO FASHION VICTIMS HERE With conversations around animal-cruelty becoming pressing, even the ‘purists’ in the industry—both creators and consumers—are warming up to the idea of vegan fashion. Since designer Stella McCartney first turned ‘vegetarian’ in 2001— an idea hitherto much-discussed but barely implemented—a number of labels, both high-end and emerging, have joined forces to create fashion that is cruelty-free and ethical. This essentially means that instead of killing animals…

Cosmopolitan: How is life post your debut film, Student Of The Year 2 (SOTY2)… Tara Sutaria: “Well, I just finished shooting for my second film, Marjaavaan [co-starring Sidharth Malhotra], and I’m quite excited about it. Right now, I’m attending workshops for my third film, RX 100, which will go on floors in about a month’s time. So I’ve been quite busy, and I’m enjoying every moment.” C: You started your career as a VJ for Disney Channel India. How has the journey been so far? TS: “It’s been very interesting and unique. I started working when I was 13 years old, and, now, I’m 23! It’s been 10 years in the entertainment world, and I can’t wait to see what the future holds for me. I’ve grown up performing and…

The day I learned how sausage gets made (literally, I was in a cooking class with my then-partner) should have been a great memory for a city girl like me who spends birthdays washing down pizza with beer. But that night also marked the end of my longest relationship. (Turns out, the meat and spices mixed better than he and I ever did.) “ More than three years later, Facebook still serves me an ‘on this day’ flashback of the occasion—as if I need a reminder of the night my sexual sausage count went from one to zero. Why does the same social network that suggests I ‘Friend’ a future colleague before I even change jobs not understand that I’d rather smash my iPhone screen than see that picture? Finding…

Sorry is supposed to be the hardest word (if Elton John is to be believed…and he almost always is). But step inside any workplace across the world and you’ll find it tripping off our tongues in the boardroom, post room, stationery cupboard, and kitchenette. So much so that it won’t surprise you to know that women apologise more frequently than men, and are far more likely to keep quiet when something really does need saying. To ensure that what you think of as basic human decency isn’t mistaken for weakness, try our no-frills guide to not taking any crap at work. The Situation YOU’RE THE ONLY ONE STAYING LATE A little overtime is often unavoidable—but if you constantly find yourself working after hours on your own once the rest of…

Dior Backstage Lip Palette, ₹4,500 The secret weapon of Dior’s make-up artists has finally hit Indian shores. This palette from the brand’s Backstage range will help you recreate runway looks, ranging from natural to bold, easy-peasy. What’s amazing about this palette is that it offers shades that work for all skin tones, in buildable matte, satin and glossy finishes. Clarins Extra-Firming Nuit, ₹5,700 This night cream is packed with the wrinkle-fighting power of hydrated silica extracted from moonstone (hello, inter-galactic rocks to the rescue!). In just two weeks, it improves skin’s elasticity and makes it visibly firmer. Bonus: it also comes with Clarins’ Anti-Pollution Complex, which helps fight the effects of pollution and free radicals, making it youthful. Bath & Body Works Lovely Dreamer Exfoliating White Clay Scrub, ₹1,499 If…

Leo 23.07–22.08 As a Leo, you already know everything revolves around you. Write this down: August 14th is your best day, so go ahead and plan the most extra birthday bash. Is it hot in here, or is it just you? (It’s you.) Virgo 23.08–22.09 Yeah, you have an invite for basically every night of the week, but you’re also craving some alone time. Your ruling planet, Mercury, is in homebody Cancer until August 11th—but don’t worry, you’ll still be up for texting all your besties! Libra 23.09–22.10 It’s not your season, but it def feels like it. Use this energy to make moves in your career, friendships, love life, or all of the above. Venus and the Sun team up on August 14th to find you your next crush.…

STORIES THAT MATTER “Huma Qureshi looked stunning on the cover. I found her interview equally interesting. I agree with her, we need to have more women in front of, and behind, the camera. The Curious Case of Dutee Chand was engrossing as well! It was great to see the athlete all glammed up, and heartening to read her story.” —Devika Singh IN A NEW LIGHT “How amazing was Sari, Not Sorry?! I could have never imagined wearing the traditional drape in such cool, modern ways. Other stories that also had me invested were Hey, Are You Sinking in D*cksand? and The Best Love Advice from Relationship Experts. They helped put things in perspective, answer so many questions, and explain many failures!” —Paavni Gulati THE MONTHLY FIX “Cosmo is my monthly…

CHEESE PULL I run a cheese stan account now. This is what dreams are made of. Cheese, but make it If you listen closely, you can hear the whimper of my Lactaid pills. PASTA The three most important food groups: pasta, Parmesan, focaccia. Name a thing pasta can’t cure. I’ll wait. Keto who? It’s a lifestyle. AVO TOAST Bought this avo toast instead of a house because #Priorities. This expensive bread is worth all my bread. Still eating brunch like it’s 2014. DESSERT THIS IS LITERALLY ALL I WANT IN LIFE, OKAY?? She is beauty, she is grace. BRB, need a nap. Sorry, I missed everything after ‘Wanna get food?’…

Cosmo: Longines has been associated with equestrian events for a long time now. Tell us more about it… Simon Baker: “An equestrian event is all about performance. But before the said performance, there is a lot of specificity, work, and data that goes into it—just like in watch-making. They both embody tradition, performance, and elegance.” C: What’s your earliest memory of watches? SB: “I was always obsessed with watches. As a kid, I would go to the beach with friends, but I had to get back home at a specific time. I must have been around 16 at the time, and couldn’t afford a watch. So, I’d ask my friends for the time because I wanted to stay in the water for as long as possible before heading back. It…

The modern mini phenomenon is going strong this season, and while it might seem like a 21st-century trend (hello, mobile phone!), its roots can be traced back to the 1900s—at the time, carrying reticules was considered a status symbol. Circa now, Karl Lagerfeld sent models down the SS15 Fendi runway with tiny, embellished purses (with oversized keychains). However, it was French designer Simon Porte’s ‘Le Chiquito’ bag (AW17) that truly revived the trend. Since then, his creations have been embraced by the likes of Kim Kardashian West, Rihanna, and Kendall Jenner. It’s safe to say that you can totally jump on the bandwagon, and embrace a minimalist lifestyle (the less you carry, the less you have to worry about) without losing out on major fashion points.…

SHIKHA TALSANIA Actor “Urban Decay might be known for its amazing eyeshadow palettes, but I found love in the Naked Flushed Palette (in Strip). It’s got a bronzer, highlighter and blush, which can be used separately or together, depending on how glam a look you want to achieve. What I love about this palette is that it’s extremely easy to blend—seriously, you can do it with your eyes closed!—and the coverage is buildable. Another one of my favourites is Benefit’s Hoola Matte Bronzing Powder.” ELENA FERNANDES Model “My favourite bronzer is from Orlane Paris—they’re known for their fabulous formulas. Not only is the luxurious packaging to die for, but the way the product reflects on your skin (with a hint of shimmer) is beautiful! It doesn’t feel heavy, and gives…

WINGS FOR DAYS Cat-eye has changed many a form over the past couple of years, and the AW19 runways brought to life yet another avatar—extreme, sharp wings that lead up to your temples. And, we have to say, this look is super-dramatic and surprisingly easy to nail. Paired with bare lips, you can cop this trend by using a smudge-proof liner (colour and finish no bar) and add a couple of coats of mascara to lend more edge. See, easy-peasy! Trend Alert! ‘MILK-TEA HAIR’ IS A THANG! If you lurve tea, you can now take that obsession to the next level with this cool, new hair trend that’s a rage all over Asia RN. Hashtag #MilkTeaHair is majorly trending on Instagram—a creamy beige shade, falling between light brown and dark…

Sure, SATC’s Samantha lit-er-al-ly started sleeping with a pro actor to bring her fave sexual fantasies to life…but she was always a little extra. If you’re nervous to play pretend for hotter sex (or your acting skills are more ‘I was in my fifth-grade play, I think?’ than ‘My Oscars speech is ready to go’), we’re on it. Here’s how to get it right on your first take. PLAY WHAT YOU KNOW Actual actors do full character studies, but you can just think of roles you’re already familiar with, from real life (masseuse + client) or pop culture (superhero + whoever’s lucky enough to hook up with a superhero). Starting with a known scenario cuts down on prep so you can get right down to business, says US-based sex therapist…

Maria is going to die this year. And I could die too, just to witness that temper of hers once more. To see the rush of blood to her face and fight that evil tongue of hers with my own, to let her determined little fists crash against my body in revolt. To see her wreck my car, kitchen and heart with measured recklessness. She is a bad-tempered, ill-mannered, violent woman. And I’m not getting a taste of her bad medicine anymore. Except only seasonally, when she chases away a lover and I’m around to pick up the broken pieces of her heart. Then she lets me in, lets me make love to her, take her to movies and buy her things. Then her heart heals and she returns to…

Mood: a full tank of cheap-*ss gas… …and a cup holder that perfectly fits your fries. ONE How often do you fill up your fuel tank? a. I wait until my empty light turns on because I’m busy, K? b. I’m filling up any time I see a pump. c. As soon as I drop to half a tank. I’m not about to get stranded while stalking my ex. TWO What’s chilling in your backseat? a. A cold, soggy McD fry that missed my mouth two weeks ago. b. Some deodorant and a toothbrush. Gotta be ready for unexpected overnights. c. An old bra. I change in my car all the time. THREE Be honest, are you a good driver? a. Never not lurking in your blind spot. Sorry! b.…