5 Indian fashion hacks to beat summer heat in style

Summer in the Indian subcontinent is synonymous with scorching heat, humidity, and the dire need for breezy, comfortable outfits. In the coming months, we would welcome more sultry weather that we would be drenched in sweat and I cannot even imagine how it is going to be because February and March were so bad. I have already taken out co-ord shorts and kaftans which usually make their entry only in April.


But worry not! Here are five fashion hacks to keep those sweaty bodies cool, chic, and culturally inspired during the sweltry months.


Light layers


Layering might raise eyebrows in this heat or to put it clear it can be counterintuitive, but it is a game-changer. What you can do is opt for linen, cotton, and rayon as they are lighter and can keep you feeling breezy.



Try a cotton tank top under a sheer blouse or a linen shirt over a cotton sundress. The result is a breezy stylist look I bet you will keep repeating.



Swap heavy denim for lighter alternatives


Denim is a wardrobe staple I agree with, but then in sultry weather, I’d trade them for some things like parachute pants, denim shorts or skirts, or lightweight jackets. Because jeans can be suffocating.



Chambray and linen are equally good alternatives.



Breathe easy with breathable footwear


This is a great opportunity to bid goodbye to boots and close-toe shoes and trade them for sandals, flip-flops, and espadrilles.


I gifted myself two pairs for this summer and I can’t wait to wear them out.


And you will be surprised to see that your feet will thank you and it’s time to show off your pedicure.



Shade and style with hats


Hats are not just accessories but most wanted weapons because they are sun shields. You can opt for wide-brimmed ones which will protect your face and neck.

Baseball caps add a vibe whereas if you go in for straw hats, they scream elegance.


Scarves: The versatile summer essential


Scarves are not just for winter. They add a pop of color to your summer outfits.


Just tie them around your neck or make them a headband or even around your handbag for instant styling.


Always keep in mind summer fashion isn’t just thriving in heat but also keeping it stylish. Make sure to embrace these Indian hacks and make your wardrobe sizzle.

This blog post is part of the blog challenge ‘Blogaberry Dazzle’ hosted by Cindy D’Silva and Noor Anand Chawla in collaboration with Mads’ Cookhouse.

Experiencing luxury beauty products – A journey beyond skin deep

In the empire of beauty, luxury transcends mere products because it’s an experience in itself, and let’s term it immersive. From the luxurious packaging to the sensorial textures, these beauty products evoke emotions, elevate your routines, and leave an indelible mark. Here are a few reasons why experiencing luxury beauty products is more than skin deep.


THE ART OF UNBOXING:


Unwrapping the product:
I’d compare unboxing a luxury beauty product to opening a treasure chest. The packaging, the layers, and the anticipation are a ritual that heightens the senses.


The intricate details- The embossed logos, and the golden accents transform the unboxing experience into an art form.



SENSORIAL DELIGHTS


Texture: Luxury skincare engages tactile senses. Every touch is a moment of pleasure, from velvety creams to silky serums. 


Fragrance: The scent of a luxury product is a journey to the olfactory senses. It lingers on the skin and keeps reminding you of it.



EFFICACY AND RITUALS


Science meets Indulgence: Luxury beauty amalgamate cutting-edge ingredients with time-tested formulations.


Ritualistic application: Applying a luxurious serum, cream or oil is a meditative practice. It is self-care elevated.


PACKAGING:


Aesthetic Allure:
Luxury packaging isn’t just functional it is an object art. The crystal jars and studded compacts adorn our vanity.


Sustainability: Some brands focus on eco-friendly packaging which indicates aligning opulence with sustainability.



EMOTIONAL CONNECTION:


Self-indulgence: Using a luxury beauty product is an act of self-love. It is a way of telling yourself that ‘You deserve this.’


Shared experience :Luxury beauty becomes a conversation starter. We get to share our discoveries, holy grails, and most importantly what works for us.

What did I try ?

L’Occitane immortelle precious cleansing oil.

KAMA ayurveda kumkumadi thailam miraculous beauty fluid

Murad city skin age defense SPF 50

AHC hyaluronic dewy radiance face moisturizer cream.

Buy only if you really need to.

Luxury beauty invites you to slow down, savor the moment and celebrate yourself. Whether it’s a serum or a mask or It could be a perfume, luxury beauty transcends the physical and becomes etched as a memory.
So the next time you open the bottle or swatch the lipstick, remember that luxury beauty is an experience and a touch of magic.

This blog post is part of the blog challenge ‘Blogaberry Dazzle’ hosted by Cindy D’Silva and Noor Anand Chawla in collaboration with Mads’ Cookhouse.

Announcement of Anthology – Brave Inked Emotions

As soon as the calendar points to March, you begin to see the internet brimming with information about addressing women as their central focus. Though International Women’s Day is a moment to reflect on the progress and the challenges that still lie ahead, it is more than just a celebration it is a call for action to accelerate gender parity.
When we say emotion it not only means happiness, excitement, surprise, and sadness, but there is much more. And handling them in a better way needs a lot of life lessons. I am happy at one moment, sad the next and jump out in excitement. Am I responsible for these emotional changes and the responses that I give out? Or is there an external factor that is responsible for triggering these emotions from inside me?
Not all of us are open about the emotions that we feel inside us. It is always wise to experience the emotion and let it out. Piling it up inside will not only prove bad to yourself but also to others when suddenly it bursts out all at once like a bottle of champagne. Emotions need to be channeled well and for that emotional wellness needs to be taught from an early age.


This is precisely the theme of an Anthology that I’m about to introduce to you, “Brave Inked Emotions” by 31 authors who experienced emotions and handled them with greater strength. Guided by Roma Gupta Sinha who has a lot of accolades to her name including successful book launches this book is a gift to women across the world on this Women’s Day.


Stepping out of our comfort zone might break us but can that be handled smoothly? Yes. This book will guide you through an emotional journey of 31 different experiences that helped them come across the river of emotions that they braved ahead of and would love to share with the world what worked for them and how it can help you.
The chapter that I contributed was specific to handling emotions in kids. As a parent of two, I had different experiences in handling both my kids when it comes to handling their emotions. Parenting them both during their early days made me understand that each finger in the hand is different. That’s when I decided I would handle them differently and teach them emotional wellness from an early age.


I’d urge you to pick a copy, read it, and feel the emotions. This book will want you to share it with your girlfriends. The book will bring a change in each one of us in how we handle emotions. DO give it a read and share your experiences.

This blog post is part of the blog challenge ‘Blogaberry Dazzle’ hosted by Cindy D’Silva and Noor Anand Chawla in collaboration with Mads’ Cookhouse.

5 Essential elements for a transformative night routine

Creating a night routine can be a game changer for your overall well-being and productivity. If you still have not started incorporating one, I’d suggest you give it a try to include little changes to your existing routine to see the transformation yourself.


5 Essential elements for a transformative night routine


A night routine is a little more than a prelude to sleep, it is a ritual that sets the tone for a good night’s rest and a productive tomorrow. Here are five things to be included in your night regimen.



UNWIND WITH A DIGITAL DETOX


In the hour before bedtime, disconnect from all digital devices. The blue light emitted from the device interferes with the circadian rhythm of your body and makes it harder to sleep. Instead, you can meditate, read a book, or do deep breathing exercises to signal the body that it is time to wind down.


REFLECT ON THE DAY


Take a moment to reflect on the day. What went well? What could be improved? Maintaining a journal will help process thoughts and feelings, setting you up for a clearer mind in the morning.


PREPARE FOR TOMORROW


Lay out your clothes, prepare your lunch plan, or write down a to-do list for the next day. This can reduce your stress in the morning and give you a sense of control.


SKINCARE ROUTINE


The skin repairs itself during the night. Following a skincare routine is crucial. Cleanse your face to remove impurities and apply a moisturizer to help rejuvenate your skin.

   
CREATE A SLEEP-INDUCING ENVIRONMENT


Make sure your bedroom is conducive. This would mean having a comfortable mattress, a cool temperature, and minimal light and noise. Consider using blackout curtains, ear plugs, and white noise machines if necessary.


Always remember that consistency is the key. A night routine should be a staple and not an afterthought. Sweet dreams and productive days await those who invest in their nightly habits.

This blog post is part of the blog challenge ‘Blogaberry Dazzle’ hosted by Cindy D’Silva and Noor Anand Chawla in collaboration with Mads’ Cookhouse.

Book review of Spiritual Anatomy

For someone who only knows about the number of chakras inside us. I’d say this book will be my ABC to learn more about it, how to locate it, and how to mitigate it. When we talk about well-being we often get to think and act only on physical and mental well-being.

But I used to wonder when people keep talking about spiritual wellness, what would that be and why is it being discussed by many? Well, this book made me understand why and why not I should give it a go. Gone are the days when we presumed spirituality talks were only for older people. This book changed my perception and if it is anything about wellness, I’m game.


When I started reading this book, it raised a lot of eyebrows. Being an avid reader, it has been habitual for me to carry it along, so the book traveled with me during cab rides, and play dates, and were not. So, when I mentioned raised eyebrows, it was all the presumed notion of why she is reading about spirituality at this age. I laughed it out, because rather than wasting time on explaining why to them, I’d rather enrich myself in the words of Daaji.
The book is divided into three parts – Read and Enjoy, Do and Feel, Meditate and Transcend. I was impressed when I read the introduction, the idea of consciousness to be taken on a journey fascinated me. The simple and natural process as explained by the author will promise you that you can achieve it.
Read and Enjoy: The chapters under this topic explore the significance of spiritual anatomy and the origin of the soul.
Do and feel: This section will give you an overview of heartfulness practice, and explain the chakras- their characters and tips to overcome limitations on consciousness.
Meditate and Transcend: Throughout the spiritual journey, it could be made easier with an atlas, as it gives you a picture of experiences and the conditions during the journey.


The sections ask Daaji and self-reflection to help you with a deeper understanding of what was learned, questions that would arise after learning through the chapter, and replies from Daaji on the same.


Heartfulness essential practices is my favorite chapter in the book where we learn techniques that evolve consciousness and ways to integrate the spirit into everyday life. The only things that are needed for you to get involved in these practices are your willingness and interest. All you need is just ten minutes in your day-to-day routine to include this practice.

The mere mention of the word inventure which translates to the inner adventure will convince you to take a chance on this amazing transformational path. A simple questionnaire from Daaji will help you to locate how far you have traveled in this inventure.


The book leads you on a path to sustainable joy. The book will encourage us to integrate our fragmented lives. Natural freedom and miraculous happiness can be discovered through awareness and meditation.


Daaji blends ancient wisdom and modern practices making spirituality accessible and relevant. The book also bridges the gap between spirituality, science and personality experience.

About the Author

Kamlesh D. Patel, affectionately known as Daaji, has been the global guide for the heartfulness movement since 2014. Daaji is the spiritual leader of Shri Ram Chandra, a meditation organization with practitioners in over 150 countries. He is also fourth in line of raja yoga (which is known as “royal yoga”). His followers include the president of India, Ram Nath Kovind. He is the author of numerous books, including USA Today Bestseller Heartfulness Way (New Harbinger, 2018) and Designing Destiny (Hay House, 2019).  While balancing his spiritual journey, Daaji was also a successful pharmacist in New York City, and is married with two sons.

Buy here.

This book review is part of Blogchatter’s book review program.

5 must read books on Indian festivals

As much as I love teaching my kids about culture and tradition, there is nothing like a good old book that can help in making them understand much better. We live in a world where kids well at least some of them would not have access to experience the essence of the festivity’s books can help them understand the reason behind the celebration came into place, how to celebrate, and what preparations need to be done.


Here are some books that I came across and I’m sure you would enjoy some of them too.


FESTIVALS OF INDIA from Sonia Mehta’s Discover India series


The book unravels the vibrant tapestry of India’s diverse festivities. The book takes readers on a journey through all the festivities. With vivid descriptions and captivating illustrations, the book brings alive each festival from Holi and Diwali.


The Author weaves fascinating stories and legends associated with each festival. Through this, the children learn customs, traditions, and the joy of coming together to celebrate the festivals.


The book is perfect for little minds to explore the country’s rich cultural heritage. The book strikes a perfect balance between information and entertainment.


FESTIVALS THROUGH THE YEAR by Rachna Chhabria


Through the eyes of twins, Natasha and Nikhil this book helps little minds explore the cultural heritage of the country and celebrate it.


Starting with Lohri in January to Christmas in December, Natasha and Nikhil explore festivals throughout the year.


The book is a treasure to cherish and revisit because of the detailed descriptions and wealth of information it contains about each of the festivals.


Young readers are introduced to rituals and joy associated with each festival along with explaining the significance.


Right from Holi to Diwali the child understands the traditions and customs.


Not only that Natasha and Nikhil record their experiences of the festivities on a blog.
Their observations add depth and authenticity to the storytelling.


AMMA, TELL ME ABOUT FESTIVAL series by Bhakti Mathur


This set is a lovely find for book readers. Fortunate to have had the chance to review these books, what caught my attention was the colorful illustrations, simple text, and engaging story narration.


Holi, Diwali, and Ramayana are the books in this series where the mother tells the children the story of how the festival came into existence.


Klaka and Kiki, the two siblings settle down for a story from Amma where she weaves a charming story on a delightful journey to celebrate Holi and Diwali.


SHE CELEBRATES


This book is an anthology of 21 stories by women across the world who are of Indian origin. Each of these stories has a backdrop of an Indian festival like Lohri, Sankranti, Teej, Onam, and Vishu to name a few. What I loved the most was the recipe at the end of each chapter associated with the festival. The illustrations were good too.


These are some of the books that had a festive background, caught my attention, and remain a favorite to me and my kids though these books were published long ago. But that’s what books are for right? To be remembered for time immemorial and to be revisited often.

This blog post is part of the blog challenge ‘BookishCafeBloghop2024’ hosted by  Rakhi   and Samata Dey Bose .

4 must read cookbooks in 2024

Cookbooks have found a special place in my TBR of late. Not only do I get to learn new recipes, I also get to understand different uses of each ingredient and even techniques of cooking them. Some cookbooks help you to plunge into a journey of holistic health. For a lot of people like me who want to start eating a healthy meal but not sure how to start or what to cook these books have contributed to handhold you and make you take that step towards a healthy life. Here are some cookbooks that I read recently and would love to share with my readers.

The no-waste kitchen cookbook by Arina Suchde

A practical and inspiring book to minimize food wastage and make delicious meals with minimal environmental impact is what Arina Suchde’s book No-waste Kitchen Cookbook is about. 75 lip-smacking recipes from fruit and vegetable scraps, leftovers, wilted greens, and other ingredients that are often thrown away are the star ingredients of these recipes. From soups, salads, curries, pizzas, desserts, and even cocktails that can be made with easy-to-make instructions and tips on how to store, preserve, and reuse food are very clearly given. Advice on smart shopping, effective composting, efficient meal planning, and adopting a zero-waste mindset in the kitchen are other topics discussed in this handbook.


Creative and tasty recipes helped me save money and also minimize food wastage are reasons why I love this book much making it a helpful and enjoyable read. Changing my habits and choices can bring a difference in the environmental and social impact of food wastage are other aspects that the book taught me. Beautifully illustrated the book is well-written and is recommended for anyone who loves cooking and wants to lead a sustainable life. The book is a very good starter for anyone who wants to lead a zero-wastage journey with 75 yummy and healthy recipes.

The Sattvik Kitchen: The Art and Science of Healthy Living by Dr. Hansaji Yogendra

The Sattvik Kitchen: The Art and Science of Healthy Living by Dr. Hansaji Yogendra is a transformative guide that explores the connection between food, health and well-being.


Overview:


An Internationally renowned yoga and wellness guru from The Yoga Institute, Dr. Hansaji Yogendra shares ancient wisdom and modern insights in this book.
The book focuses on Sattvik food practices, emphasizing what we eat and how, when, and why we consume it.


Key Themes:

  • Ayurvedic Wisdom: Dr. Hansaji reintroduces the age-old Ayurvedic remedies that address modern health issues.
  • Mindful Eating: The book stresses mindful eating combining knowledge about the right food with conscious consumption.
  • Vedic foods: Exploring the benefits of Vedic foods, the author provides evidence-based insights into their impact on our well-being.


Recipes and Wholesome delights


The book includes mouth-watering sattvik recipes that promote immediate and long-term health.
From wholesome grains to nourishing dairy the recipes celebrate the joys of food while supporting overall wellness.


Holistic approach:


Dr. Hansaji reminds us that we are both physically and emotionally shaped by what we eat.


By adopting sattvik food practices, one can embark on a journey towards good health, weight loss, and overall well-being.


It is not just a cookbook, but a holistic guide that reconnects us with the profound impact of food on our bodies and minds. Dr. Hansaji’s wisdom invites us to savor each meal as a step towards a healthier and happier life.

The India Cookbook: From the Tables of My Friends by Sunita Kohli

The India Cookbook: From the Tables of My Friends by Sunita Kohli is a delightful culinary journey that celebrates the rich tapestry of Indian food.


Diverse Perspective:


Sunita Kohli’s collection of recipes showcases the immense variety of Indian cuisine.
Each region contributes its unique cooking methods, ingredients, and utensils, steeped in tradition and evolution.


Friendship and flavour:


The book features recipes from Sunita’s friends- across generations and walks of life.
From schoolmates to renowned personalities like Shashi Tharoor, Shabana Azmi, and Anita Ratnam the book celebrates warmth and camaraderie.


Comfort and Exoticism:


The book features familiar comfort foods like Pongal, Butter chicken, and kadhi pakora which evoke nostalgia.
Special dishes like sat saaag, Mohan maas, and baked crabs are also considered.


Cultural Tapestry


The India cookbook isn’t just about food, it’s also about friendships, culture, and the joy of sharing meals.
Whether at family gatherings or parties these recipes are sure to nourish the soul and the body.


In short, the book is a blend of tradition, friendship, and culinary artistry- a feast for food lovers and soul seekers alike.

The Indian Vegan: Easy Recipes for Everyday Cooking by Sonal Ved

The Indian Vegan: Easy Recipes for Everyday Cooking by Sonal Ved is a delightful culinary treasure trove that bridges the gap between traditional Indian flavors and modern plant-based living.


Veganism with Indian Twist:


Sonal Ved’s research into Indian cuisine reveals that no other culinary tradition aligns seamlessly with the vegan lifestyle as Indian cooking.
The book celebrates the abundance of plant-based ingredients found in Indian kitchens.


Inspiring recipes:


The book offers a diverse array of recipes from Ladakhi Chutagi to Nengal’s mocha’r ghonto.
Every dish covered in this book combines health, flavor, and cultural heritage.


Practical approach:


The book provides accessible recipes for both kinds such as a seasoned cook or a newbie to veganism.
For anyone seeking wholesome, delicious plant-based food this book is a must-have.


This book invites you to explore the intersection of taste. Health and compassion through the vibrant lens of Indian vegan cuisine.

This blog post is part of the blog challenge ‘Blogaberry Dazzle’ hosted by Cindy D’Silva and Noor Anand Chawla in collaboration with the Bohemian Bibliophile.

This post is part of the Bookish league blog hop hosted by Bohemian Bibliophile.

Self-help books to read in 2024

Self-help has always been one genre that keeps me glued while reading. I look forward to books that have a tone that is practical and not something preachy. I choose books which have a good amount of examples, case studies and research based evidence which is a sign that the book needs to be added to my TBR. Here are a few books that made it to my reading list.

Average sucks by Michael Bernoff

A book that challenges you to come out of your comfort zone and unleash your true potential. The reason we don’t get what we want is that we have an average that defines the behavior, performance, and results. This is the reason that the book argues. Our average is the invisible force that keeps us stuck in mediocrity and prevents us from achieving our goals. It shows how to identify our average, raise it, and surpass it so that we create an extraordinary life.
It is not a typical self-help that gives generic advice but rather a powerful guide that teaches how to change mindset, habits, and actions. The author has used these tools and techniques with thousands of clients.

The book has three sections such as
PART 1: The problem– Explain what your average is. How it affects you and why it hurts.
PART 2: The solution– reveals the five steps to raising your average and creating a lasting change.
PART 3: The action– provides exercises, challenges, and resources to help in implementing the solution and transforming your life.


A suitable book for anyone who wants to improve any area in their life- personal, professional, and social. I realized how my average was holding me back from achieving my dreams. I found a lot of tools and strategies to raise my average to create more happiness and success. A good guide that teaches you how to live an above-average life.Read a short review here. Buy a copy.

Money hacks by Larry Steinhouse

A book that reveals the secrets of money and how to use it to your advantage, it also challenges the common myths and misconceptions about money. The book shows you how to think differently and creatively based on your financial solution. I loved the topics that the book covered such as,

  • How to obtain huge lines of credit while building up credit scores and your net worth.
  • How to negotiate better deals and save money on everything you buy.
  • How to avoid pitfalls and traps of debt, taxes, and inflation.
  • How to develop a money mindset that attracts wealth and abundance.


The book is written in a simple, conversational, and humorous style with stories, tips, and real-life examples from the author’s own experience as a successful real investor and entrepreneur. The book is suitable for anyone who wants to learn more about money and how to make it work for them. It is not a get-rich scheme but a realistic guide that teaches the skills and strategies you need to achieve your financial goals. The book opened my eyes to the possibilities and opportunities that money can offer and how I can use it to create more happiness and security in my life.


I found a lot of tools and techniques that can be applied to my situation. A realistic guide which can help anyone understand the truth about money and how to use it smartly. Read a short review here. Buy a copy.

The Science of getting started by Patrick King

A book that explores the psychological and biological reasons why we procrastinate and how to overcome them. It reveals the hidden forces that prevent you from taking action such as perfectionism, fear, impulsiveness, self-doubt, and boredom. It also provides practical and proven strategies to help start and finish any task, goal, or project.

  • How to use the power of habits and routines to automate your productivity.
  • How to leverage the psychology of motivation and rewards to boost your performance.
  • How to apply the principles of behavioral economics, neuroscience, and game theory to make your work more fun and engaging.
  • How to overcome the common excuses that keep you stuck.
  • How to deal with distractions and interruptions.
  • How to cope with stress, anxiety, and fatigue which can sabotage your progress.


Written in a clear, concise, and conversational style, with case studies, personal anecdotes, and scientific research that support the author’s points the book is not a boring text but an entertaining lively guide that teaches skills on how to master the mind and take action.

This book is suitable for anyone who wants to improve their productivity, efficiency, and effectiveness in any area of life. The book was very helpful and an insightful read which helped me understand how I procrastinate and how I can change it. A lot of tips and techniques can help boost my productivity and achieve my goals. I can say that it is a science-based solution to getting started. Read a short review here. Buy a copy.

Lead or get out of the way by Gary .J.Vien

Lead or Get Out of the Way is a practical and inspiring book that lets you know how to become an effective leader. And if you are already one, this book will help you become much more effective. Based on his forty-year career in the military, education, government, and business as a leader, the author presents 8 principles of leadership that help in achieving your goals, overcoming challenges, and influencing others.


With clear examples, tips, and exercises these 8 principles are explained in detail for us to apply in our situations.

The principles are:

  • Communicate effectively.
  • Build trust and credibility.
  • Know yourself and your purpose.
  • Lead by example.
  • Collaborate and partner.
  • Empower others.
  • Embrace change and innovation.
  • Celebrate success and learn from failure.

A good handbook that lets you assess the leadership skills currently and find out areas for improvement. Written in a simple and engaging style, with a pinch of wisdom, insight, and humor, it is a book that is apt for anyone who wants to improve their leadership skills, irrespective of whether they are people who aspire to be leaders or new and experienced leaders.
A helpful and motivating read, the book gives practical tools and strategies to enhance leadership abilities and confidence. Making me think about how to make an impact on others and to think differently is what the book made me gain.

These books help understand what actually is happening and analyse situations. They also guide you on how to handle situations by giving you the knowledge about tools and techniques which will help you arrive at solutions. Read a short review here.  Buy a copy.

This blog post is part of the blog challenge ‘Blogaberry Dazzle’ hosted by Cindy D’Silva and Noor Anand Chawla in collaboration with the Bohemian Bibliophile.

The Ultimate List of Valentine’s Day Gift Ideas for Her: From Romantic to Practical


It’s the season of love and since February 14 is not so far, it’s time to get gifts ready. It’s time to celebrate love and show appreciation for the women in your life. Be it your partner, mom, sister, or friend, finding the perfect gift that expresses your feelings can be a challenge. So, if you’re still thinking about what to get, here is a little gifting guide that will save your time.


FOR THE BEAUTY LOVER


If she is the one who loves to try on new beauty products and makeup looks, you can surprise her with a gift that enhances her beauty. Most e-commerce have huge sales at this time so it can be a great time to purchase your surprise gift and also a little less in your pocket.

  • A deluxe makeup collection which features her favourite shades and must-have products.
  • There is a new luxury vegan beauty brand Dear Dahlia that is inspired by the flower and its timeless beauty offering products across all categories like lips, eyes, sun and face. That could be something which might interest her.
  • A viral K-beauty brand rom&nd is here with products for the face, eyes, lips, and brows. I’ve been eyeing this brand for a long time, if not getting this as a gift, I’m going to add this to my cart.



FOR THE SKINCARE GODDESS


If she is someone who loves to pamper herself, you can give her a gift that indulges her senses.
A pampering set that includes high-quality skincare products, bath bombs, and candles is a perfect gift.

  • Nykaa’s CSMS routine has been doing rounds on social media, so it could be her time to try this. They do offer a lot of options on kits that have products in 30-60-90 ml sizes which makes it easier to finish off if this is the first time.
  • If she is someone who believes in age-old ayurveda for skincare secrets, then Nat Habit and TAC products are sure to impress her.
  • If she loves luxury skincare then she can be surprised with ELEMIS London, CLINIQUE, Laneige, and KAMA Ayurveda.


Pro tip: Laneige lip masks can never be a wrong choice.


FOR THE TECH SAVVY


If she is a person who is always on the go but loves to be connected and updated, a gift that combines functionality and style is sure to impress her.
A smartwatch that offers a range of features that enhance her lifestyle like,

  • Tracking her steps and monitoring her heart rate.
  • Playing music and making calls.
  • Managing schedule, and receiving notifications.
  • Customizing watch face and band.


FOR THE BOOKWORM


If she loves to read and learn new things, a gift that stimulates her mind and sparks her curiosity is sure to delight her. A book that suits her taste can be a perfect gift like,

  • A book that reveals the secret of money and how to use it to her advantage.
  • A book that is a practical guide that teaches her how to reduce food waste and make delicious meals.
  • A book that is based on science and explores the biological and psychological reasons on why we procrastinate and how to overcome it.
  • A historical novel that tells the story of a young girl who grows up in the turbulent times of India’s freedom movement.


FOR THE CREATIVE SOUL


If she has a passion for art and creativity, your gift can be something that inspires her to express herself and unleash her potential. Something that matches her skills and hobbies like,

  • A mandala coloring book if she loves to be calm by coloring. I was recently gifted one during a surprise Valentine’s gift exchange.
  • DIY art kits across categories like resin art, Lipan, coaster painting, and much more.
  • A modern mixtape that can be personalized with a Spotify code and a message.


SOME RANDOM FINDS

  • A gorgeous necklace that features a unique design and a high-quality material.
  • A personalized metal bracelet that can be customized with a name or initials.
  • A rainbow rose in a glass dome that lights up and adds a touch of romance to her room.
  • I also noticed that we now have a way to name a star after our partner. That sounded interesting and something new to me this time.


Hope this post has given some useful information and inspiration on how to choose the best gift for Valentine’s day. Always remember, the most important thing is to show your love and appreciation with a thoughtful and meaningful gift that reflects her style and personality. Happy Valentine’s Day.

This blog post is part of the blog challenge ‘Blogaberry Dazzle’ hosted by Cindy D’Silva and Noor Anand Chawla in collaboration with Bohemian Bibliophile.

3 plus size fashion trends to try in 2024:Ultimate guide to plus size online shopping

Plus size clothing is a growing market which caters to the fashion needs of people who wear large sizes. In this post, I share some tips and trends on how to style plus-size clothing, as well as some of the best online stores to shop from.


Tips and trends for plus size clothing


Know your body shape and measurements. Different body shapes have different strengths and challenges when it comes to finding flattering clothes. Knowing shapes and measurements will help in choosing the right styles, cuts, and fits for your figures.


Experiment with colors and prints. Don’t be afraid to add colors and patterns to the wardrobe. It can brighten up the mood and express your personality. It can help create a balance in your outfit. For example, you can wear a solid top and pair it with a printed pant or a skirt.



Accessorize smartly. These can make or break your outfit. They can help add sparkle or contrast to the entire look. They can help draw attention to your best features. A statement earring or a neckpiece can be a highlight to your face.
Follow the latest trends but do not become a slave.


The trends may come and go but your style is timeless. Some of the recent trends for plus size are


Wrap dresses: Wrap dresses are versatile and flattering in most body shapes. It can accentuate the curves and adjust to your fit. They’re available in various lengths, colors, and prints.


Wide-leg pants: They’re comfortable and chic. It can help balance your hip and add movement to your outfit. Fitted tops and cropped jackets would make a great pairing.



Off-shoulder tops: They are trendy and feminine. It can help in showing off your collarbone, neck and shoulders. Wear it with jeans or skirts for a casual look.


Amydus is a plus size online store in India that provides comfortable clothing for women sizes 14-32. Dresses like tops, jeans, shirts, and skirts in different fabrics and patterns can be shopped from this store. Tummy shaper pants, coord sets, and winter wear can also be shopped.


I love the shirt collection from Amydus. Be it a professional, casual, or chic look their shirts can help you in achieving your desired look. They are available in a variety of colors, fabrics, and prints that will suit your personality and style.


Here are tips on how to style a shirt from Amydus


Choose the right size and fit: If it is too tight and too loose it can ruin your look. The website has a size chart and a tool that will help in finding the right size and fit for different products. The customer reviews also help to get an idea on how the attire suits plus-size women.


Picking the right fabric and color: The fabric and color of the shirt can make a good difference in the way you look and feel. Cotton shirts are breathable but they get wrinkled easily. Polyester is durable but can trap heat. So always choose a fabric that suits occasion and the season. Also choose a color that flatters your skin tone. Pair it with solids or pastels depending on your preference.


Layer up or down: This can help create different looks with the same shirt. A tank top, camisole or a bralette can be used to add color or texture. A sweater, cardigan or jacket can keep you warm when you layer it over the shirt.



IDEAS TO STYLE



For a formal look, you can wear a solid black shirt from Amydus with black trousers and heels. A blazer or a coat can add a more polished look. Simple earrings and a watch can be used as accessories.



For a casual look, you can pair a blue striped shirt with blue jeans and white sneakers. A denim or a leather jacket can give you an edgy look.



I’ve styled their solid white shirt with red pencil pants. A pair of simple earrings and a watch complete the look. This was also my birthday outfit and I’m glad that I could find my fit at Amydus.


Fashion is all about having fun and expressing yourself. So do not let size limit the style. Be bold and beautiful. Happy shopping!

This blog post is part of the blog challenge ‘Blogaberry Dazzle’ hosted by Cindy D’Silva and Noor Anand Chawla in collaboration with Bohemian Bibliophile.