Cosmopolitan India TP DEC 2020

DECEMBER 2020
First Dates Vicky

Kaushal
Should
ONLY
Last 57 “I’m most
Minutes proud of the
FIND
OUT
fact that my
parents are
proud
WHY ON
PG98
of me”
It’s
your
time
to
shine +
ALL THE STYL E
MA KE-UP IN SP O
YOU NEED F O R A
PARTY OF ONE
contents
40
Diana Penty on
her style
journey, what 74 The Real Lip Deal
she’s reading to 76 Beauty Scoop
her pet, Vicky,
these days, and
more. Love & Lust
On the 94 What Does it Mean to
Dec
Be Panromantic?
Cover You, You, You
2020
100 Are You Suffering from
78 Coverstar Friendship Fade?
Vicky Kaushal
The 32-year-old actor Only In Cosmo
opens up about life in 88 Agents of Change
102 The Stars of Youtube
the limelight, beliefs that
give him strength, and Fashion & Beauty
why he can’t wait to get 119 Opener
back to the grind. 120 In Good Company
126 Blow Hot in Cold
98 Hot Take: First 138 Party of One
146 How to Massage Your
Dates Should Only Face Like a Pro
Last 57 Minutes 150 Beauty Expert
We have five ~very~ 152 Lust List
good reasons for why
your first date should Lifestylist
153 Opener
last exactly this long.
155 How to Dress Like Your
Star Sign
126
Hot fashion Fast Glam
In Every Issue
06 From the Editor
inspo for the 118 Quiz
long winter 23 Opener
ahead! 24 4 Shades of Checks 168 Astro
32 Shop Local 170 Last Word
38 Hot (On) Wheels!
39 Spot On!
40 5 Minutes with Diana
Upfront
09 Opener
Penty
42 Literally Any Other Fall
The Cover Look!
Trends But Leopard Photographs: Tarun Vishwa;
10 The Hottest Colour Print... We’re Begging! Hair and Make-Up for Vicky:
Trends of the Moment 44 “My Jewellery Style” Anil Sable; Hair and Make-Up
14 Pulling the Right 48 For the Love of Local for Priyadarshini: Riviera Lynn
Strings at Anima Creative
58 An Ode to Socks
16 Anyone Else Management; Styling: Ayesha
60 Street Style Amin and Shaurya Athley
Not Carrying
a Purse Lately? 62 Style News On Vicky: sweater and pants,
17 Wait, When Did 68 Glitter Therapy both Marks & Spencer;
Everyone Get So Chill 72 Really Bad Advice It’s watch, Tissot
About Lipo? Time to Forget On Priyadarshini: dress, Dolly
18 Vikrant Massey: “Life 73 Underrated Yet Deserving J; belt, Shivan & Narresh;
in 2020 Has Been of So Much Hype: earrings, Radhika Agarwal;
Bitterly Gratifying” Brown Mascara bracelets, Hermès
2 COSMOPOLITAN DECEMBER 2020 FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN DECEMBER 2020 COSMOPOLITAN 3
Editor-in-Chief Aroon Purie
Group Editorial Director Raj Chengappa
Publisher Karen Wilson Kumar
Editor Nandini Bhalla

Editorial Co-Ordinator Akansha Bahadur
Associate Editor Meghna Sharma
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Editor’s Letter
habits...and letting go of some
disadvantageous ones.
Over the years, I
have been able to
reshape my mental “The very first vision board, and
make-up, social life, step to changing learn new skills. Heck,
and degree of your life is scientists have even
personal joy with help self-reflection...” developed a list of 32
from one potent tool: questions that
introspection. Which promise to reshape
basically means I your life.
make a mindful effort, every single day, And while each one of these
to take a long, hard look at what’s prescriptions is admirable, and
right—and wrong—in my life. Could I certainly powerful, the very first step
have handled that aggravating situation to changing your life is self-
in a better way? Perhaps, which means reflection...and recognising exactly
I must work towards greater calm on a what needs changing.
Welcome to the December Issue. daily basis. Am I truly happy with the
Around this time of the year, one of people I surround myself with? Yes, Have a wonderful 2021,
the coverlines you’ll frequently see but it wouldn’t hurt to spend the next
on magazine covers and in few months forming a few more, Until next month,
newspapers is: ‘New Year, New You’. meaningful connections. Is my
It’s a reassuring declaration, laced wardrobe a versatile one that reflects
with the intoxicating promise of a
better body, a better mind...a
my personal style? Somewhat, but it
could benefit from the addition of
.IN
better life. some signature pieces, to make
Which might make one wonder:
can you truly transform your
dressing-up quicker and less stressful.
What do I need more of...what do I Follow www.cosmopolitan.in for
the latest in fashion,
existence in 12 months? need less of? Nandini Bhalla,
As someone who has tried to By questioning the significant and Editor
improve her own orbit, in small secondary details of my life, honestly nandini.bhalla@intoday.com
beauty and celebrity news.

doses and several times, I can tell and often, I have been able to identify Follow me on Instagram: nandinibhalla
you that the short answer to this areas that need improvement. Which,
question is: yes. The longer version then, makes it easier for me to draw up
is, yes, but it will involve an action plan, to be set in motion over
incorporating several, helpful micro the next few months.
The ways to shake up and shape up
your world are many. Experts will
encourage you to wake up earlier, read
more books, meditate daily, create a
6 COSMOPOLITAN DECEMBER 2020 FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN NOVEMBER 2020 COSMOPOLITAN 000
UPFRONT
THE TOOLS AND INFO YOU NEED TO LIVE LIFE, VERSION 2.0
Follow @bazaarindia on
INSTAGRAM
for the latest in fashion, beauty and celebrity news.
Artwork By: SHWETA SHARMA
upfront
The Hottest PE AC H
N OU GAT
BALENCIAGA
Colour Trends
Dubbed by Pantone
as a “nurturing” shade
MSGM
that “embraces with
its inviting warmth”,
this one is set apart
of the Moment
by the opulence and
extravagance it oozes.
Also a shade that gets
richer with accessories
(blacks and golds
seem to be the A-list
Advocated by Pantone as the top hues right now, these favourites). This delicate
essential tones have come together to create a palette that is hue works best for
dressed-up affairs,
robust, empowering, and “creatively conscious”. Here’s a especially when worn
CHLOÉ
in ‘polished’ fabrics like
peek at some of what showed up on the runways...
KHAITE
silks, satins, and velvets.
By Humra Afroz Khan
FENDI
Although, the bohemian
vibe it emitted at Chloé
was just as stunning.
ALEXANDER
MCQUEEN
HALPERN
M I LI TARY
TOFFEE BROWN O LI V E
In a world of blinding
This strong tone of
neons (which we
the verdant family
love, FYI), warm,
CLASSIC BLUE earthy neutrals are comes “imbued
Pantone Color of the Year 2020, still ~very~ much a with a rich narrative”
this shade of blue is said to be thing. The runways this season. Olive is
“evocative of the vast and infinite saw Fired Brick, Tawny known to lend itself
evening sky, opening us up to Birch, Sandstone, etc, to winterwear—
a world of possibilities”. And a in fun iterations, on cardigans, jumpers,
world of possibilities is just what buttery faux-leather, jackets, overcoats,
the runways threw up this season! soft suedes, knits, and et al—but this time,
Synonymous with all things posh more. You can let one there was a lot more
and royal, this hue is rich and full, fabric and one shade
to it. The semi-neutral
so let its true colour shine, head dominate the look, like
hue came in an army
to toe. Or pack on some equally Ms Jenner here, or
conspicuous shades and shimmy try permutations and of outfits emanating
Beyoncé fierce feels (sculptural
elements, à la Halpern. combinations of both,
The shade doesn’t need too even different prints shapes, boxy fits,
much bolstering on the accessory and patterns. (We love etc), but also in soft,
LONGCHAMP
front either, so you can easily the contrast with purple silken interpretations,
make do with minimal padding. at Mugler, too—and to embrace its
But if playing no-holds-barred is think gold/green will go delicate, feminine
LOEWE
more your game (*high five*), go just as wonderfully with side. Choose what
on and fearlessly load up on jazzy it.) Browns work great you’re vibing with,
accompaniments, even catchy as a monotone pick,
BRANDON MAXWELL
to join the fashion
hair and make-up. Oh, there are but are the perfect
MAX MARA
forces.
SAAKSHA & KINNI
additions to the blue family this canvas for out-there

Kylie
season: why not try the Deep, Jenner experimentalists, too!
Strong, and Dress variations, too?
MANISH ARORA
MUGLER
000 COSMOPOLITAN DECEMBER 2020 FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN DECEMBER 2020 COSMOPOLITAN 11
upfront
SAM BA RED
A shade that can glam up the
laziest of dressers—purely by the
virtue of its vibrancy—this one’s
perfect for when you want to be
the cynosure of all eyes, with
minimal effort. (BTW, there’s also
the more out-there Mandarin Red,
in case you want to up the ante.)
With red, we’d say weave the rest
GAURAV GUPTA
of your look around it to ensure the
colour alone takes centre stage.
A matching mouth or a standout
silhouette is all you’ll need, really.
Take it to the next boardroom
AMIT AGGARWAL
meeting, the next brunch, or the
next red-carpet outing; it’s sure to
make a poignant entry.
RICHARD MALON
ALBERTA FERRETTI
ECKHAUS LATTA
MICHAEL KORS
MAG E NTA Ananya
PURPLE Panday
This is the “hypnotic”

version of purple, audacious
and dramatic in equal
B RI GHT YE LLO W
measure! AW20 saw it
Topping the charts ATM are the
worn in playful ruffles, sexy
minis, and metallic drapes, “optimistically rebellious” Green
as well as in ‘70s-inspired Sheen: an acidic yellow-green;
suiting, even sparkly minis and the “botanical in feeling”
with extra-puffy sleeves, Celery: a vital yellow-green. And
or gigantic bows, et al. both serve the same purpose:
This one is a plush party in to enliven wintry, grey skies
itself, but please feel free with a ray of sunshine! While
to add some streamers—a many designers are going
tonne of bling, high heels, a the whole hog with yellow,
bright pout—to make things you can choose to offset
grander. things a little with neutrals.
And while the fashion pros This trend, ideally, calls for
preferred an unabashed a no-make-up look, but you’ll
dose of all-purple, in get extra points for playful
different tonal variations, layering, striking trimmings,
you can choose to break and other coruscating add-ons.
the plummy-ness by pairing Tingly-tangy, this one ain’t no
it with vivid shades of wallflower...no ma’am!
browns, pinks, oranges,
RAHUL MISHRA
SIES MARJAN
greens, and reds, for an
equally impactful look.
GUCCI
Leslie Grace
Rita Ora
upfront
Pulling Céline Sciamma’s Portrait

Of A Lady On Fire and
NM: “Ustad Amir Khan’s
Hansadhwani, Ustad
automatically disinterested;
but if it speaks to me,
C: What is your
relationship with social
the Right
Bong Joon Ho’s Mother Vilayat Khan’s Yaman, I feel joyous beyond media?
are some other movies I Pandit Nikhil Banerjee’s explanation.” NM: “I like to use it for
enjoyed watching recently. Kedar, Shrimati Kishori the reach it has, but I try
As an actor, it is hard to Amonkar’s Bhoop, and C: What are some other to keep a check on how
Strings
have any one favourite... Kumar Gandharva’s songs.” simple pleasures that much I consume of it.
there are so many acting bring you joy? I try to create a healthy
moments I love in so C: How has your taste NM: “Waking up to a balance, which needs to
many movies!” in music evolved with birdsong, watching the be worked on every day.”
time? mountains in the distance,
C: Do you ever sing in NM: “I am still mystified humming songs in the C: Who is the last
Sitar player Neha Mahajan is living the bathroom? by how much sounds wind during a walk, person you stalked on
the dream as an artist. She recently NM: “Roja songs are my communicate when listening to crickets at Instagram?
got to collaborate with Ricky Martin on favourite to sing in the
bathroom! I’d sing ‘Dil hai
arranged in beautiful
patterns. I try to listen to
night, calling an old friend
out of the blue, oiling
NM: “A new friend I
made in Canada, who is a
his latest album, Pausa—which has chota sa, choti si asha’ every all kinds of music, from my own or my mother’s really cool anthropologist
now bagged a Grammy nomination. hair, making tea, cooking, and loves embroidery!”
wearing a face mask and
In an exclusive interview with Cosmo, eye-pads, learning to C: What is the one
the 30-year-old opens up about the embroider and crochet... thing you can’t have
Oh God, I can’t stop.” enough of?
experience, the maestros who inspire NM: “Books. I have
her, and the songs she loves to sing in shelves and boxes full of
the shower... By Humra Afroz Khan “MY TASTE IN them, even in the space
MUSIC IS MORE under my bed!”
LIKE A CHILD
IN LOVE...IF IT C. Tell us your
Cosmo: What was like Ricky’s—certainly SPEAKS TO ME, favourites?
your reaction when expanded my imagination. I FEEL JOYOUS NM: “I love Leo Tolstoy!
you heard from Ricky
Martin’s team?
And Pausa speaks largely
about the need to love
BEYOND I read Anna Karenina
and War And Peace
Neha Mahajan: “When unconditionally, which is
EXPLANATION.” recently, in a span of
I received a call from immensely relevant for me. three months, and I’m
Mireille, Ricky’s associate, As for Ricky, he is a currently saturated with
I didn’t believe it at first... I very sensitive person, and C: How important are love for them! Weather
thought it was a prank call. believes in the things he female friendships for by Jennifer Offill, All The
I was so skeptical, I even contributes to the world. I you? Lives We Never Lived
ended up asking her, ‘Why learnt about being humble through his understanding NM: “Very! It is sad that by Anuradha Roy, and
do you want me to play from him...and also about and talent. I am an ardent fan this differentiation has to Milkman by Anna Burns
for this song?’ She said, believing in your art. of his commitment to music.” be made...but I know it are some other recent
‘Erm, because it’s beautiful Working with him inspired is important to make it, favourites. I am now
music’. I jumped for joy me to practise more and be C: You are also an actor... too, because the deep- reading The Union Of
once I found out she was in better shape, musically.” what are you binge- rooted patriarchal remarks Smokers by Paddy Scott,
being serious!” watching right now? Ricky have been outrageous! and loving it!”
Martin
C: When it comes to NM: “Fleabag. I love that Like, ‘Two beautiful
C: What was it like, music, who is your show so much, I wish there women can never be C: What are your
Ricky Martin’s Photograph: INSTAGRAM
working on Pausa? biggest inspiration? was a third season! It is day in the shower before all over the world. But as friends’. It objectifies resolutions for 2021?
NM: “I learnt and grew NM: “Baba Allaudin refreshingly original, and leaving for school. Now, I a student of sitar, which I women endlessly. I NM: “To consume less;
so much because of this Khan. He is the founder made me fall in love with ‘air guitar’ and make up my am still learning, I tend to believe in egalitarian write e-mails to loved ones
experience. My Sitar-raga of Maihar Gharana and the protagonist—every bit own lyrics.” focus on the deep impact relationships, fuelled by more; practise music a lot;
music is a purely wordless an incredibly versatile flawed, but so hilarious. I also that Indian raga music has love, communication, and work in films I love; read
communication, and to musician. He embraced watched a lot of movies by C: And what are the on me. My taste in music is respect. And I value all more; work out every day;
pair it with a song with world music and produced Spike Lee, whose direction top five songs on your more like a child in love: if my friends deeply, of all give back in some way to
lyrics—with a soulful voice a unique Indian identity and spunk I greatly admire. playlist? it is insincere and dry, I am genders.” the community...” n
upfront
Anyone Else Not Carrying Wait, When Did Everyone Get

a Purse Lately? So Chill About Lipo?
This is the reign of It’s sort of a big-deal procedure, but suddenly it seems like it’s NBD?
the pocket and you
F
irst, some
know what? That’s facts: “I’m probably too
fine by us! liposuction open about it,” adds
is the most Ca Anandita*, 30, about
Orrrr... common aesthetic ll
the lipo she recently
If mini bags, like
it
By now, we have all procedure performed got on her chin. “I’ll
the
Mrs Jonas’ pick here,
Fa c
come to this realisation in India, as stated in tell co-workers, first
is too done for you, tr y
etu
together, silently: not a report in the Indian dates, strangers in line
ne
ef
going places = not a necklace bag: the Journal of Plastic fe
c t… at the grocery store.”
needing to wear half best of both Surgery. It is the We are also more
your apartment on your worlds! second most popular down to discuss the
shoulder. We mean, cosmetic reasons behind our
our only (masked, surgery in the US, choices. “I work really
obviously) outings and in 2019 alone, a hard, and I think I
at the grocer y store.”

“I’ll tell co-workers, first
right now are perhaps whopping 2,65,000 deserve to be happy
By: LAUREN ADHAV; Photograph: GETTYIMAGES.COM

to the coffee shop... people got it on with my body,” says
and the park if we are areas like their butt, another lipo patient,
feeling adventurous— stomach, and arms. Sana*, 27. “This was
dates, strangers in line

places where all we One out of every six fully a ‘me’ decision—
need is the holy trinity of them was under for me, by me. And
(phone, keys, wallet). 30 years old. I’m really happy
Know what those fit That last part is about it.”
in? Pockets. Hands. Or the one that’s kind Of course, there are
if you’re committed to of shocking. We very valid arguments
an outfit, or bringing are talking about which may be why to be made about the
along additional items 45,000 young people age-old lipo is still fact that if the world
(sunglasses, sanitiser, getting a rather kicking in this modern were more celebratory
sanity), a tiny bag. And pricey procedure world. According fairly minor results. of all kinds of bodies,
know what that feels in uncertain times. to US-based plastic But our biggest bet people might not feel
like? Freedom. Priyanka We are not one to IG feeds full of fitspo surgeons Cat Begovic, for the reason lipo the need to make
Chopra judge—women can and transformation MD, and David has become a thing those kinds of ‘me’
Jonas
(and should!) choose pics and #SponCon Rapaport, MD, it again? Our generation decisions in the first
what to do with their moments touting is one of the only is hyper-focused on place. “Getting lipo
By: RUBY BUDDEMEYER; Image Courtesy: APPLE; *NAMES CHANGED

bodies and money— buzzy cosmetic procedures that transparency, and made me realise I
but it’s not like lipo procedures. And the creates immediately young people are maybe had some
is a low-stakes thing: increasing popularity visible change. The just a lot more body dysmorphia,”
BABY BAGS IF YOU MUST
it’s a legit surgery that of injectables has same can’t be said for comfortable sharing admits Anandita, who,
requires anesthesia, already made our newer treatments like what we are up FWIW, has no regrets
Handbag, Box bag, JW Pie, Tote, Tarini Nirula, Bag, Charles & Bag, Kaeros,
Zara, `2,990 `2,890 approx `2,200 Keith, `7,499 `9,000 incisions, stitches, and generation less CoolSculpting and to than previous about her procedure.
Belt bag,
Immri, `7,600 recovery time...aka fazed by poking and SculpSure—which generations were. Almost no-one else we
stuff people usually proddingin the name you may also know Take our hero Cardi interviewed did either,
try to avoid. Then of feeling great. from Instagram, B, who proudly told and truly: to each
again, maybe we are Here’s another thing tend to take weeks or her followers about their own. n
not *that* shocked. millennials aren’t shy months to show even her lipo last year (and
Because we, too, have about: a desire for the intense recovery
instant gratification, process that followed).
upfront
“Life in 2020
C: You have trouble wooing women
“Patience and persistence
and face constant rejections in Ginny are the most important
Weds Sunny. We know, in real life,
you’re engaged...congratulations. But
tools in this line of work.”
Has Been...
how did you fare with women before
that? had ever spoken to me like that before.
VM: “It has been a mixed bag for me. I felt so humiliated. I started crying and
I’d say I have had different phases. Like, wanted to quit there and then. But the
Bitterly Gratifying”
in school, I was extremely shy, but I supervising producer, who is now a really
was good at extra-curricular activities, close friend, was really supportive. She
so I was fairly popular and got a lot of took me to a corner, and said, ‘Welcome
attention. Then, in college, I thought I to this world!’. She spoke to me kindly, at
was very charming and smooth, but I got length, and made me go back to the set.
rejected! [Laughs.] So yeah, I have had And I have never looked back since!”
my fair share of both the worlds.”
C: There is so much conversation
Actor Vikrant Massey C: Are you a romantic? around nepotism. As an ‘outsider’,
opens up to Cosmo about all VM: “I think I am. But I’m not the so to speak, who has been through
that he’s excited about ATM, clichéd kind—I don’t like giving or
receiving flowers, chocolates, et al, or
his fair share of struggle here, what
are your views on the matter?
his unusual obsession with celebrating Valentine’s Day, etc. I think VM: “It’s unfair to relegate nepotism
stationary, and why he almost I’m past that age too now. Instead, to just the film industry. Yes, it does
I enjoy things like waking up in the exist here, but it exists everywhere, in
quit acting. mornings and having a cup of chai almost every professional field. Talent
By Humra Afroz Khan together, or even just standing together is the only thing that can take you far, VM: “To be honest, I don’t know
and brushing your teeth...sharing that and I’m proud to say that talent does yet. I am still exploring and figuring
kind of space. Or, cherishing the idea get recognised here. If just politics and things out.”
Cosmo: You have had some big releases with of having a life together. I find all that pulling strings worked, I wouldn’t be
Netflix this year, Dolly Kitty Aur Woh Chamakte very romantic. But yes, there are the here and talking to you, after 16 years C: What is the one decision in life that
Sitare and Ginny Weds Sunny. How has the ‘classics’, too—like celebrating birthdays of work!” you are most proud of?
‘digital’ experience been? and anniversaries, or surprising VM: “There are two: one, the decision
Vikrant Massey: “I enjoy working on the digital your partner. Actually, I think I’m a C: And what has been your biggest to pick good stories, not discriminate
platform...always have. But, honestly, the medium subconscious romantic!” takeaway from your journey? between mediums, and believe that only
doesn’t matter to me—it’s all about making a good film VM: “That consistency is the key to good performances beget more work.
and telling a good story. Even with these digital films, C: What is the one thing you love to success. Patience and persistence are And two, the decision to choose Sheetal
we hadn’t set out thinking they would be streamed on splurge on and own the most of? the most important tools in this line of [Thakur] as my life partner.”
such platforms. But the times are such that these tie- VM: “I’m a big hoarder! And you work, and stagnation is unaffordable.”
ups became possible. And as an actor, I don’t really get may find it odd, but I love to hoard C: What does the coming year entail,
into anything other than the project I’m a part of, and stationary! I have sh*tloads of pencils, C: When not acting, what are some both professionally and personally?
the role I’m playing...and simply hope to give it my pens, markers, sharpeners, erasers, of the hobbies that keep you busy? VM: “More than anything else right
best.” scales, even compasses. I’m also a VM: “I love sleeping—I can sleep now, I’m looking forward to the
compulsive fragrance shopper. And, through the day! I can also read for six COVID-19 vaccine. That’s the one thing
C: You have worked across genres, from crime although I don’t spend much on clothes to seven hours straight...and can play I pray for day in and day out, with the
thriller to drama. Is there a genre that you enjoy and wear my brother’s clothes most of video games all night long.” hope that it is available to everyone, so
working on most? the times, I love to splurge on footwear... we can all get back on our feet. Other
VM: “I would love to do an espionage thriller someday. and socks!” C: What was the last book you read than that, I want to travel a lot...all my
I love reading that genre and would love to feature in or film you watched that made you plans for the year had to be cancelled.
it, too!” C: Do you remember the first cry? Professionally, I have some interesting
time you faced the camera, as a VM: “I don’t cry easily...I don’t even films coming out in 2021, including
C: And as a viewer, which genre do you enjoy professional actor? remember when I cried last. But a Haseen Dilruba and 14 Phere.”
watching most? VM: “So clearly...it was on December 19, book I read recently and enjoyed was
VM: “That depends on my mood, and keeps 2004. I was shooting for the show, Kahaan Caste Matters by Suraj Yengde.” C: If you could sum up life in 2020
changing from day to day. Comedy is something I can Hoon Main. And just 20 minutes into the and all that you’ve learnt from it, in
watch any time. I also enjoy dramas. But, like I said, I shoot, my director yelled at me so hard C: When you look at yourself in the one line, what would it be?
truly enjoy binging on thriller shows and movies.” on the mic, in front of everyone! No-one mirror, what do you see? VM: “Bitterly gratifying!” n
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fast glam
4
Shades of
Checks
A few months ago, we Oh, to be young
schooled you in different again! This sartorial
style has aged so
kinds of checks—yes, beautifully that it can
there’s more than one, make you feel like a
teenager (minus the
and they all have names! gawkiness!). Just
And this time round, we throw on a
checkered, box-pleat
are here to show you dress and blazer,
how you can use this and you’ll see what
we mean. Team your
humble pattern to create Mary Janes with a
extraordinary looks. pair of knee-high or
calf-length socks for
Checks and (faux)
leather, when paired the ultimate
together, results in a Photographs: Kim Hyuk; school-girl vibe.
certain power play By: Manveen Guliani;
that makes for an
eye-pleasing effect. Text By: Meghna Sharma
It’s amazing that the
toughness of leather
is so beautifully
Model: SUN HYE-YOUNG; Hair: KYUNG MIN JUNG; Make-Up: SOOYOUNG SIM; Assistant: SONGA KIM;
enhanced, yet
softened, by checks.
You can further
accentuate the look
by adding link-chain
jewels, broad belts,
and more. And , if
you are not a skirt
person, you can
achieve the same
finale with a pair of
flared trousers, too.
Fashion Intern: ANANYA BANERJEE
Bodysuit, skirt, belt, Jacket, Polo Ralph Lauren; mini

necklece, thigh-high PAYAL SINGHAL
dress, Mulberry; hairclip, Dior;
boots, all Saint tote bag, Celine; Mary Jane
Laurent by Anthony Shoes, Gucci; beanie and socks,
Vaccarello. stylist’s own FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN DECEMBER 2020 COSMOPOLITAN 25
fast glam
1. Gold plated cuff,
Suhani Pittie, `5000.
2. Cropped checkered
2 suit jacket, Dhruv
Kapoor, `18,500.
3. Knee-length floral
skirt, H&M, `2,299.
4. Long dress with high
neck and a belt, Zara,
`4,490.
5. Cable-knit sweater
with shoulder pleats,
Massimo Dutti, `7,290.
3 6. Black studded
1
stiletto pumps, Dune
London, `11,999.
7. Check pullover, Vero
Moda, `2,999. 8. Mid-
rise check culottes,
Vero Moda, `2,799.
9. Personalised
2 necklace in mother 4
4 of pearl, Isharya,
`10,679. 10. Faux
patent leather buckle
Oxfords, Forever 21,
`1,999.
Ti me for 5 5
Classics
10
The world of fashion is

constantly reinventing
fabrics and styles to
make them more
current. But once in a
while, it is nice to wear
a style the way it was
intended. Checks have 6
always had two sides:
the school-girl look and
the easy, I’m-too-cool- 6
for-school vibe. Both of
which we LOVE! And
so, adding a plaid shirt, 8
checkered overshirt, 9
or mini skirt to your
wardrobe staples is a 7
stylish idea. These 7
pieces have gotten
more refined over time,
and will totally prove to
be vital additions to
your ‘drobe.
Mood for 1
8 Vi n t ag e
The checks pattern has a certain je ne sais quoi quality that can instantly transport you to an era gone by—especially styles like
cropped jackets, breezy culottes, mini skirts with ruffled hem, or fitted blouses. Luckily, all of these pieces are trending at the
1. Floral print silk tie, Satya Paul, `2,795. 2. Casual button-up shirt, Polo Ralph moment, making it easy for you to achieve the look without rummaging though your mum’s (or grandmother’s) trunk full of clothes.
Lauren at The Collective, `9,990. 3. Block-heel sandals, Steve Madden, `8,999. 9 Pair these with retro favourites like a pair of Mary Janes and easy waves to stay authentic to the period, but with a modern twist.
4. Checked wool mini skirt, Gucci, `1,04,200 approx. 5. Rib-knit slipover, H&M,
`1,499. 6. Checked overshirt, Mango, `6,590. 7. Ribbed high-neck thermal
bodysuit, Uniqlo, `2,630 approx. 8. Baguette Bag, Fendi, `1,92,900 approx.
9. Mary Jane stilettos, Head Over Heels by Dune London, `3,499.
fast glam
We might have
underestimated the value
of a windowpane
checked shirt in our
wardrobe. Mostly
reserved for days when
we are feeling uninspired
and throwing on just
about anything would do,
this classic piece comes
with sartorial magic
waiting to be wielded. If
clashing heavy prints is
not your thing, take a cue
from this look—fuse the
feminine energy of a
floral print with the
masculinegender-neutral
vibe of a checkered shirt
for a street-style-level-
cool look. Even better:
throw on an oversized
coat and combat boots
to hit it home!
The cold weather calls for

layering, but it doesn’t
have to be monotoned!
#Boring. Instead, look for
interesting separates that
can mesh well to create a
striking look. Take two
staple pieces like a
checkered coat and a
fuzzy jacket, for instance.
On an ordinary day, worn
alone, they would look
chic, but basic. Layer them
together and you have
Fur coat, Miu Miu; trench coat, yourself a elevated look
Coat, shirt, dress, all MSGM; crop top, 8 by Yoox; jeans, waiting to be snapped!
Gucci; necklace, Guess; bucket hat, Tommy Hilfiger;
Monica Vinader; loafers, necklace, Rascas by Ille Lan
Dr. Martens
fast glam
10
3
1
St re e t
C hi c 9
The key to nailing the
street-style vibe is to put 1. Checkered braid ring,
CaratLane, `16,824. 2. Ankle
in the right amount of strap heels, Swarovski X Oceedee,
effort to make a look look `16,999. 3. Metallic top, Ted
effortless. First order Baker, `5,200 approx. 4
of business: invest in a 4. Embellished check flared
good checkered shirt. trousers, French Connection,
`14,150 approx. 5. Kawaii
Buffalo plaid, tartan, miniature bag with silver foil,
gingham, big, small... KNGN, `6,500. 6. Wide belt with
8
whatever you like! The buckle fastening, Crusset at ajio.
world of fashion has com. 7. Monogrammed socks,
Gucci, `13,770 approx. 8. Delphi
embraced this print and ankle boots, Versace, `1,52,900.
is now adding to its edgy 9. Checkered tweed mini skirt,
vibe with accents like Mango, `4,590. 10. Asymmetric
fringe, studs, and more. metallic top, Zara, `1990.
Next, sprinkle some
unique accessories: a 7 5
bucket hat, scarf, socks, 6
or belt. Now build your
look around these two
key elements. 9
2
5 8 1
6
3
7
E v e n i n g G l am
We know this pattern has been infamous for being too cazjh for far too long.
4 But give a girl the right kind of checks and she can conquer the world...or at
least the room she walks into! 2020, unlike many other things, has thrown
some wonderful sartorial options our way. You can take the school-girl route
and rock a pair of plaid stockings under a solid mini, or wear the big-girl
(checkered) pants and team them with super-high heels for a ’70s-boho-
1. Large brim bucket hat, Dior, price on request. 2. Fringe-trim plaid shirt, Polo Ralph Lauren, `22,100 approx. 3. Mid-rise,
slim-leg cropped jeans, Scotch & Soda, `11,420 approx. 4. Floral scarf, Nicobar, `3,650. 5. Petit check cotton wool shirt, meets-glam vibe. Want to start small? Team a blingy bag with a dark velvet
Gucci, price on request. 6. Stretch jersey T-shirt, Love Moschino, `12,300 approx. 7. Quilted belt bag, Versace, `147,700. dress, or glittery socks with pumps or strappy heels in the same pattern.
8. Chuck Taylor High Tops, Converse at VegNonVeg, `4,999. 9. Denim jumpsuit with belt, Mango, `5,590.
fast glam
For the Love

of Local
In the latest edition of our monthly series, we speak to some of our
favourite fashion enthusiasts about their favourite pieces by Indian
designers, and what makes these picks so special.
By Manveen Guliani
AISHWARYA
GREESH MA SH ET TY, SINGH, MODEL
FASH I ON BLOG GE R “AKHL is one of my favourite
“I believe a woman looks her best Indian labels, purely because
when she is comfortable in what of the comfort their clothes
she is wearing. And as luck would offer, which resonates with
have it, my favourite piece by an my personal style. The brand
Indian designer is also the most is by a young designer, Akhil
comfortable outfit in my closet: this Nagpal, and the pieces are
oversized hoodie. Plus, it quotes my modern and easy to wear,
forever-mood, which also happens with great fits. This jacket is
to be the brand’s name: Where’s a couture piece, and it can
My Pizza. The label promotes be mixed and matched with
genderless, streetwear fashion, and various other items to add
their inspiration comes from retro, interest to a look—my go-to
hip-hop culture, with an eccentric picks are regular jeans or
colour palette. 2020 made me leather pants, with boots,
realise there’s an art to lounging or perhaps a satin skirt with
around in oversized clothing. I could slip-ons. This jacket is super-
style my hoodie with sweatpants stylish, too, and works well
and a fanny pack during the day, or for any occasion, be it on
switch things up with ripped jeans the runway or for a coffee
and chunky sneakers for night.” meet-up.”
fast glam
D I KSHA DEVANSHI TULI, FASHION STYLIST

R AWAT, “This Afghan-inspired tunic by designer Aseem Kapoor is one of my favourite pieces—I love how beautifully it has been
FASH I O N crafted. From the Rajasthani Dabu work making up the fabric base, to the coin embellishments and delicate resham
intricacies...every part of it narrates a story of its own. I tend to wear boxy clothing, and find this tunic breezy, super-
BLOG GER comfortable, and luxe. When investing in a piece, it is important that I should be able to dance, jump, run, and work in it,
“I am wearing a classic hassle-free. Depending on what my mood and the weather is like, I’d wear this one as a dress, with boots and oxidised
pantsuit by a new, silver jewellery, or layer it with a skirt, with leather sliders and minimal to no jewellery.”
homegrown label called
Kayb, which I discovered
recently. It is tasteful,
high-quality, and made to
fit beautifully. A pantsuit
is such a statement in
itself, but can be tricky to
pull off. This one, though,
checks all the boxes for
me, quite effortlessly.
For a day outing, I like to
wear it with a contrasting
turtleneck, in baby blue,
and a pair of sneakers.
For night, one can just
go bare under the blazer,
wear a pair of heels,
and perhaps add a chain
necklace.”
fast glam
SON Y K AUR ,
MOD EL
“I am always on the look
out for designers who are
doing interesting work, and
was recently introduced to
this Indian label, LineTribe.
With a focus on tailoring,
craftsmanship, and design,
LineTribe is redefining what it
means to be a contemporary
Indian label, and I love
their vision. This appliqué
sweatshirt/hoodie by the brand
is now an absolute favourite.
It captures my personal style
so well...it’s oversized, but sits
perfectly on me, and looks
sporty and luxurious. For the
day, I like to wear it with skinny,
distressed jeans and chunky
sneakers or statement flats. It
can also be worn out at night
as a dress, with a jacket thrown
on for extra drama.”
ROSHNI
C H O PR A ,
A C TO R ,
C R E ATO R , A N D
E N TR E PR E N E U R
“This year, for me, has been
about discovering under-the-
radar Indian designers, that
are great alternatives to Zara
and Mango. I like to pick
pieces I can style, re-style, and
re-wear, because I strongly
feel that a minimal wardrobe
with multiple styling options
is the way forward. The outfit
I’m wearing here is from Only
The Family; the hat is from
Essgee by Sagrika Grover.
I love monochrome: it’s my
comfort-zone and what I feel
the best in. And the dress can
work as a dress, a jacket, and
even an overlay. I also love the
embroidered message of Love
on it—to love every moment of
life, everyone around you, and
most of all, to love yourself.”
fast glam
Bag, Dior, Geo Lurex Fil Coupe

price on request Dress, Calvin Klein,
Woven belt, `40,600
Label Ritu
Kumar, `3,200
Wide-leg
cropped
trousers,
Marks &
Spencer,
Bandana `1,499
Biker jacket, shawl, Hermès, Jacket, Tom Ford,
Dior, price `83,700 approx `5,75,000 approx
on request Diamond
hoops, Irasva,
`1,58,490
Faux Shirt with

leather maxi skirt,
trousers, Nitya Bajaj,
Zara, `16,000
`2,990
Gloves, Ted Baker,
`9,800 approx
ASHISH
Belt, Kazo, Reversible
`590 Dress,
T-shirt, hat,
Zara,
The Souled Mango,
`3,990
Store, `499 `2,390
PANKAJ & NIDHI

Bangle, Michael Kors, `28,500 Stilettos,
Ted Baker,
`10,650
Compiled By: MANVEEN GULIANI
RODARTE
Sunglasses, Prada,
Spot On!
Backpack, Royal
Enfield, `5,000 price on request
Hot (On) Wheels! Scarf,

Complied By: RADHIKA DHANUKA
Accessorize,
`1,800
Lace-Up ankle
AW20-21 is making for a strong case for boots, Charles
& Keith,
Bordering on timeless (= season-less), polka dots
the return of the biker girl. Here’s all you `7,499 continue to be spotted across collections! Pick from the
need to know about the reboot... Earrings,
Kazo, `790
lot to emanate those vintage, whimsical vibes, on fleek.
fast glam
5 Minutes with and is made of a slightly metallic fabric, which makes it the
perfect party outfit. I am also a fan of floral prints, and
Forever New’s floral mini-dress is gorgeous.”
meditated, just as and when. I haven’t discussed this before,
but my dad suffered from a kidney failure—so that’s another
issue I care about. It made me realise the gravity of the
Diana Penty
disease, and how there isn’t much awareness around it. The
C: How would you describe your personal style? treatment is also very expensive. I try to contribute to various
DP: “Over the years, I have developed my own, organisations, to help patients with kidney-related ailments.”
individualistic style. It is fairly minimal; like I said, I
gravitate towards pieces that are classic and timeless. When C: Recently, on Instagram, we saw you reading a book
The actor sits down with Cosmo to talk about all things fashion and I was younger, I wasn’t taken in by fashion. I didn’t care as to your dog Vicky. What are you guys reading these
beauty, how she can patiently watch grass grow(!), her pet Vicky’s much, and comfort was everything—it still is, but now I days?
enjoy putting things together and styling myself. Through DP: “It must have been purely for Insta-purposes [laughs]. I
fascination with magazines, and more. By Humra Afroz Khan work, I have become more involved in what I wear, and used to be an avid reader, but now it has taken a complete
interact with different designers and experts on a regular backseat. Vicky does enjoy magazines, though. Once, I was
D
basis. I am also beginning to experiment a little—nothing going through one, and she came and started looking
iana Penty is at home, curled up outrageous, but I do like trying out new things and trends.” intently. So I flipped the pages to show her. She even
on her couch, in pyjamas, a top- reacted. It was so amusing.” n
knot bun, and no make-up. “You C: What is your definition of beauty?
wouldn’t believe this person belongs DP: “I don’t judge beauty by face value. For me, it is the
to the film industry if you saw me right now,” she confidence, the aura of someone walking into a room, that “My style is fairly
laughs on the phone. That does sound like a far
cry from her typically put-together self one is
matters. Growing up, you do have a specific definition of
‘beauty’, as fed by magazines, the media, etc. But I have minimal; I gravitate
accustomed to seeing. But Diana is, by her own
admission, “very normal”. And, despite being in
come to the conclusion that beauty is about who you are—
it is your overall packaging. When you have a conversation
towards pieces that are
the spotlight for more than 15 years now—first
as a model, then an actor—she has managed to
and you connect with someone on a deeper level...” classic and timeless.”
remain not just unfazed, but even unaffected, by C: What is Diana Penty like, off-camera?
the stereotypes around beauty and body. “It’s not DP: “Very normal. I take my time to think things through,
about what you wear or how you look—for me, and rethink, and then overthink. I am an introvert—except
it’s the personality...” she tells us. In this interview, when I am with people I know well, or when I am giving an
the face of Forever New in India also opens up interview; then I can be a chatter box. Otherwise, I am very
about her personal style, societal constructs, and quiet. I don’t like being the centre of attention. I was like
her mag-loving pooch, Vicky. this even growing up...way worse, actually. But with age
comes a certain amount of confidence. Also, because of the
Cosmo: Tell us about your association with work I do—being in front of the camera—you get used to
Forever New. it. But even now, I am completely non-glamorous for
Diana Penty: “It was all very organic, actually. I someone in the movie industry!”
have been a Forever New shopper since I was in
college. At the time, I had just started modelling C: What gives you strength?
and was earning some money, so whenever I DP: “I am very, very patient. I can watch grass grow! It
needed a dressy outfit, something nice but takes a lot for me to get stressed. I am generally the calmest
affordable, I’d just go to Forever New. Their style person in any room, and can handle most situations.”
is classic and timeless, and that resonates with
me. It is a brand I am familiar with—so it was a C: So do you ever get angry?
great fit, and I am happy to be on board.” DP: “I do [laughs]! I really care about animals and the
environment, so if I see someone ill-treating an animal or
C: What are some of your favourite pieces throwing trash on the road, I get livid. The other day, I was
from their latest collection? travelling somewhere by car and saw people hacking down
DP: “First would be their green sweater dress— trees. It got me so upset and angry! And I am generally not
it is so chic and perfect for colder months. I don’t overly emotional, but I get really put off by people who lie.”
get to wear sweater dresses often in Mumbai, but
I love them. Now, whenever I travel, this one is C: You have been closely involved with the Khakhi
my go-to outfit, paired with thigh-high boots or Project. What are some other causes that are special
even stilettoes. My other favourite is their little to you?
black dress. For a night out, I always end up DP: “There are a few. If it is something I feel for, like
choosing black. This one is cinched at the waist, animals or the environment, I contribute. It is not pre-
jacket,
Bomber
Kukoon,
`19,500
`15,000
Collective,
Liu Jo at The
Red Xbody Bag,
`5,299
Shoes, Steve
Pr
Madden, `8,999
et
fast glam
Charles & Keith,

`2,699
Platform
t o sha t y m
Ankle-strap mules,
as p e u
boots, H&M,
ty s c Q
ch - w a a n d h l i k U
ic rm a e t IL
in p h TE
t h and u f f e b
e y l
fre snu te ank D
ez g g x t u e t
ing ly re wi
m wh . Yo th d
o n i l e u ’ ia
t h l o l l fe m o
s a ok e n
h e i n’ l a l d
`3,999
ad h e l
Backpack,
Forever 21,
. l la
Dog Shaped
Kendall + Kylie
Yoyo Cao
Shirt dress,
jeans,
`3,999
Zara, `4,490
Wide-leg
by Marks
Autograph
& Spencer,
su G H
yo rpr ot ta I G
u isin lo
ne g v
H
e SH
to ed i l y l o w h
cl e s a w - e n IN
m
a n so a f a E
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es y, en on
Chloé
e da an is
pi m c
Harrouche
ec p e.
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B
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ing yo t ma T T
r
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Eagle,
`3,999
t h m o i e n vo u f o r R
American
Y
Midi-dress,
e n o t.
m c Ad r i te o u
at hr d q t f i E L
e r o m m ua t s LO
w h i a l a o r r a as
a t s — t i c e ~ n t i sl
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Compiled By: PRIYANKA YADAV;
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By Lauren Adhav
to u r d
t h ad
so
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ot a a t i e
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of is o P
kil pri ne A T
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et or yo W
ro te u
en v i b x t u m i O
co e. re x a R
ur PS s t w K
ag : og ho
ed t i n et l e
t h
h e ed er u n b
re gl fo ch
. as r a
se
s
Miro
Blanca
dress,
Mango,
Pleated
`10,900
Paisley
`4,490
Kumar,
Pa
scarf, Ritu
st
st e
at win ls a
em te re LI
e n r d se
a a L
in t dre ys son A C
t h s to l e
is s o lif ss
po r e w . B
p p su i t r i
i ng b t l h e ng
e
Masha
p u a c i t h e co l
Sedgwick
r p ce r a d e
r
`3,20,400
le. ss
or
ie
jacket, Versace,
s
Patchwork denim
`29,740
BlueStone,
of notorious midi-skirts). Are we the only ones suffering from ‘Big Cat Fatigue’? Yes? No? Please just wear any of these other trends. For us. For you!
Stud earrings,
Literally Any Other Fall Trends But Leopard Print...
`16,000
`23,550
Salvatore
Ferragamo,
Sunglasses,
Michael Kors,
Zara, `2,990
Adele Patchwork
Wristlet, MICHAEL
Corduroy overshirt,
Yes, yes, leopard print—it has neutral hues, it goes with everything, it looks good on everyone...and it’s already made its way onto millions of garments and OOTDs (plus zillions
Tassel
`5,515
earrings,
Valliyan by
Vans,
Nitya Arora,
approx
`17,000
Sneakers,
Era MoMA
fast glam
“My R AD H IKA
SE TH
Jewellery
Act o r
“My accessory style is chic and
creative, and I love collecting
chunky gold jewellery that pairs
Style”
well with most outfits. Out of all
the pieces I have, if I had to pick
my favourite, it would be the
gold necklace that says ‘R.Seth’,
because it is the first piece of
precious jewellery I ever bought
for myself...and, of course, also
because ‘R Seth’ is a family
Three accessory enthusiasts, with an eye name since my parents’ names
also start with the letter R.
for eclectic pieces, share their most-coveted Longevity and timelessness are
jewels with Cosmo. the two key factors I take into
account when buying jewellery.
By Meghna Sharma and Zunaili Malik In this photograph, I am wearing
my favourite layered necklace
IS H ITA MA NG AL with golden hoops...these are

my go-to pieces to add a stylish
Creat iv e Direc tor, Q U O touch to an everyday outfit. Also,
“My jewellery box features a mix of the signature Tory Burch
heirloom and modern pieces—I love bracelet is a classic piece that
mixing the old with the new, as it is never disappoints. The flatlay is
refreshing and works as a great a snapshot of my jewellery box,
conversation starter, too. I gravitate mainly featuring my hoops
towards bold pieces with unique collection that I have curated
patterns. In this photograph, I am over the years. The one thing on
wearing an Afghani silver choker—it is my wishlist right now is the
one of the first Afghani pieces I Cartier love band—I want at
purchased. I love how versatile this least five of those!”
necklace is, and I must have worn it over
50 times! I am fairly quick when it comes
to making key shopping decisions, but
that doesn’t mean I don’t think before
buying. While selecting new jewels to
take home, I am simultaneously thinking
of the ways I could style them, the outfits
I can pair them with, or if a piece can be
layered or not... And only when an item
checks all of these boxes, does it make
its way to my closet. I have built a basic
jewellery wardrobe, and I am happy with
the collection I have. The jewels you see
in the flatlay are a mix of my mom’s old
pieces that have now found a new home
in my bijoux box, plus a few of my recent
acquisitions. The one evergreen piece on
my wishlist is my nani’s [maternal
grandmother] jadau necklace and ring,
which she wants to gift me at my
wedding. I love it so much that it is one of
the main reasons I want to get married!”
64 COSMOPOLITAN DECEMBER 2018 FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN

R OOH I O O M ERB H OY JA IKIS H A N
Exe c ut i v e D i re ct o r, R R Oo me r b ho y Pv t Ltd
“My style is feminine, and I love collecting faux pieces as much as real jewellery. This photograph features a lot of my favourite
jewels, starting with Gucci’s Hortus Deliciarum Ring with the lion head used in such a beautiful, precious way. All the pieces from
this collection feature Gucci’s key lion motif, signifying courage, power, wisdom, and nobility. The Bvlgari ring is another
magnificent piece that draws its inspiration from the past—the Colosseum in the eternal city of Rome. The Victorian Cross Pearl
earrings are a recent purchase from my friend Arundhati De-Seth. They remind me of something I had seen in a jewellery store
in Istanbul...and look charmingly old-world. I always prefer quality over quantity... I am not an impulsive shopper when it comes
Photograph: RYAN MARTIS
to jewellery. A lot of the pieces I have are inherited from my mother’s and family’s collections. But I still have several items on my
wishlist... Especially from the beautifully-curated collection at Objet d’Emotion by Valery Desmurs—it features jewellery
designers like Nadia Ghazal, Alice Cicollini, and Silvia Furmanovich. But my favourite designers to shop from remain Tallin Jewels
Follow @bazaarindia on
and Heeramaneck & Son. If I had to pick my most prized possession from the lot, it would be my mother’s wedding ring and a
gold taveez-style pendant, which I wear on a chain.”
INSTAGRAM
for the latest in fashion, beauty and celebrity news.
sHop
loCaL
AS THE WORLD battles an unprecedented crisis,
the Indian FASHION Industry IS ONE OF THE
many to take a SERIOUS HIT. As ORDERS
come to an abrupt halt, many upstart LABELS,
young DESIGNERS, and even ESTABLISHED brands,
STRUGGLE to stay afloat. And because
many of these labels employ INDIAN WEAVERS
and craftspeople, their LIVELIHOOD—AND SKILLS—
are under threat. From this issue on,
COSMO INDIA PLEDGES to dedicate a special section to
HOMEGROWN labels and PRODUCTS, curated by
EDITOR Nandini Bhalla. Whenever you decide to shop next,
Photograph: MEHTAB MANN
do consider one of these LOVE-FOREVER buys...
fast glam
5
O PA L I N A
“How stunning is this choker?! Victorian
glamour meets Indian heritage in this
22-karat, matte gold-finished necklace
that features a pair of doves (who, I’d like
to believe, are in love). This handmade
piece is feminine, striking, and perfect
for a solid-hued look.”
Choker, `41,890 BUY!
1
4
KURIO
“When was the last
time you wore made-
to-order shoes? These
handmade sandals
draw inspiration from
the ancient Japanese
1 craft of Miura Shibori,

and present footwear
that look like abstract
pieces of art. The
O U S H K BY sandals are available
USSAMA in a host of colours;
SHABBIR there’s also a hint
ce s Al w
“Right from the brand’s of drama that can Pi e
name (Oushk, as they tell g
elevate a casual look
ay
n
us, is Arabic for ‘adore
l t i -Taski
instantly.”
s Win
yourself’) to the details—
thread embroidery with 2 1. `3,800. 2. `4,500.
3. `3,800.
Mu
crochet work, patches,
and handmade buttons,
this cotton and leather bag
deserves a firm fixture in
the closet that appreciates
3
Indian craft.” S A G A A BY
Bucket bag, `9,500 VA N I TA
“Comfortable, sustainable,
and ethical clothing
trumps all else when it
comes to good style. This
6
muslin dress, with hand- THREE
2 embroidered geometric
patterns and pleated
cuffs, will see you through
“You don’t need to
count the ways you
can wear a reversible
A R C V S H BY PA L L AV I many seasons. And the jacket...it is a must-
SINGH fact that it is made with a have! This teal overlay,
“As we bring the year to a close, tie all zero-waste policy will in cotton twill, features
loose ends with a wrap-jacket dress. leave your conscience upcycled patched
This design has been hand-block pleased, too.” fabric and lends a
printed, and features a diverse range of Button down dress, sense of effortless
patterns, creating a patchwork effect `8,500 cool to any look.”
sans the weight. ” Printed jacket, `8,500
3
re ss
Wrap dress, `17,360 A ja c ke t d
so m a n y
o ff e rs u p p o rt u n it ie
s
st y li n g o p
9
VA N I L L A
MOON t o f fl o w e
rs
“It’s time to blossom A bouque
o e s a re
with slip-ons that feature o n y o u r sh t w a y to
a su -s h o
re e st
a burst of blooms, put your b
thread-embroidered a rd
1 3 fo o t fo rw
2 onto leather. These
trainers are a playful
take on the classic
white pair of shoes,
perfect for a socially-
distanced coffee date
7 with a friend.”
Hand embroidered
leather trainers, `6,990
MANISH FALL
ARORA FOR
“For those who are IT
craving an escape
from the humdrum
with a dose of candy-
infused-imagination,
these embellished,
embroidered, and
10
printed pieces are the
ultimate saviour! Not
for the faint-hearted,
each design is a
collector’s essential, LABEL
M I TA N S H I
and serve as a
colourful reminder
that brighter days are
8 SHAH
“Not all acrylic is bad, as
this upcycled jewellery brand
a comin’.”
CHARKHEE on Instagram proves—
1. Printed dress,
“A block-printed midi dress, like this one, Mitanshi’s statement
`13,250.
2. Embroidered needs an extra element to make it stand earrings are made from
top, `14,250. 3. out from the crowd. This cotton creation discarded acrylic sheets
Embellished top, is complete with an attached jacket, from post-industrial use, and
`8,900. 4. Ruffle front slit, and pockets, as well as mirror can even be recycled later.
4 skirt, `9,950. 5. 5 and sequins work, which bring the look Abstract, bold, and welcome
Denim Skirt, `28,750
together wonderfully.” in any trinket box.”
Midi dress, `4,500 Earrings, `25,000
in
nk
k Pi f or a 12 15
Th
PURVI DOSHI SUMAN
So
FALL
N AT H WA N I
lid St at e
“As interesting necklines
FOR
take centre stage, this “I believe that the fabric is
IT asymmetrical, mulmul as important in making an
m
ts
en dress with birds perched outfit a keeper, like you’ll
on a tree, brings the see on this yellow, kora
outdoors in, through texture cotton dress, or on
delicate aari embroidery. the blue habaoka dress.
This summery piece is Both outfits boast beadwork
great for evenings out, on the necklines, hems, or
11 like an art gathering or a

garden party under the
twinkling stars.”
sleeves, adding a bohemian
flair to a summer staple.”
1. Yellow dress, `7,900.
SUE MUE Dress, `9,900 2. Blue dress, `8,900.
“Style isn’t always
about busy prints and
OTT designs. A simple
box dress, like here,
with flowers delicately
embroidered on the
front and pocket, can
be just as impactful...
and so pretty.”
Linen dress, `8,400
14
VA R E L I B A F N A D E S I G N S
“Threads and zari French knots come beautifully
together on this box clutch, with warm-hued flowers
on a cool, pastel-pink backdrop. This multi-tasking
piece of arm candy works equally well with
Indianwear as well as with western outfits. ”
Frame Clutch, `4,997
13
N AYA N TA R A C O U T U R E
“The second I laid eyes on this T-shirt, I fell in love. The
threadwork on abstract motifs—with sequin, bead, and
a la te
cutdana—makes for an artful piece, perfect for the girl D o n ’t b e
In st e a d
who has a painterly side to her.” b lo o m e r!
a fl o ra l
in ve st in 2
Crepe Tee, `8,500 b o x c lu tc h
54 COSMOPOLITAN DECEMBER 2020 FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN
fast glam r
a y s b e tt e
B ig is a lw o m e s to
w h e n it c ,
n d a h e m
fl o ra ls , a f lo ve
g e st u re s o
16
LIMERICK
BY A B I R R
N’ NANKI
“The label’s new
collection has
several beautiful
pieces on offer. Just
one of those is this
crepe kaftan, with
cats prowling across
it and birds taking
17
OUTHOUSE
flight. Wear this
“I have been obsessed with chokers of-late. And
piece as a throw by
there’s something delightfully attractive about
the pool, or even as
this particular piece. Hand-carved, mint-green
a dress with the belt
S o m e wher
and jade crystals sit secure in flowers plated
secured in place.”
e with 22-karat rose gold and surrounded by
Kaftan dress,
e
Swarovski crystals. And fresh water pearls hang
aw t h e Li
`12,900
like drops of dew. Out-and-out grand.”
Choker, `24,500
Dr
18
MAE
“Named after the Hindi word for ‘me’, this Delhi-
based, globally-present, hip-hop-meets-Bollywood
brand makes no bones about going OTT with its Indie
aesthetics. This set is known as ‘Behen’, or sister,
with sequinned net on cotton lining, and it may well
become your favourite collectible ever.”
Behen set, `11,000 approx
19
N OT E B O O K
“A pinstriped, tailored
jumpsuit is such a fun
way to imply that you
mean business. This
design in Terry Rayon
has front pockets, side
20
pockets, and box pleats
at the back, as well as
large, white buttons to
keep things young yet 5 ELEMENTS
sophisticated.” “While browsing through this accessory label’s website,
Blazer jumpsuit, `10,500 I came across several stunning bags that deserve your
attention. For instance, this embellished, jute clutch that
is guaranteed to leave you happy as a lark.”
Multi-coloured embellished clutch, `3,500
fast glam
I t ’s a l l a b o u t t h e m a t e r i a l. Cas h m e re,
d re s s u p s n e a ks a n d f l a t s, t o o.
s h o e s l o o k eve n m o re ’s p e ns i ve.
s h e e r, o r m e t a l l i c s o cks m a ke f a n cy
Here’s the trick...
B u t yo u c a n us e t h e m t o
An
S
W
NE
F L A S H
Flat form
Ode to
espadrilles are
actually made for
w i n t e r, s o t h a t y o u
can pair them with
p l a i d s o c k s.
Socks Charlie Ankle Socks,

Happy Socks,
`1,300 appox
They are the light Tie-dye socks, etsy.
of our lives and com, `590 approx
Patent leather pumps,
no, we are not Mango, `4,590
exaggerating. Fishnet kitten heels,

Zara, `2,490
By Lauren Adhav
Flame Graphic Crew
Socks, Forever 21,
`199
Metallic lace socks,

Gucci, `15,950
approx Academy Slingback
Flat Loafers, Louis
Vuitton, `99,000
Knotted strap pumps,
|||
Charles & Keith,
Compiled By: PRIYANKA YADAV; blue plaid mesh socks: DANIEL SAHLBERG; Darner Socks x Simon Miller; blue
`5,499
sandals, SIMON MILLER; sock silos, JEFFREY WESTBROOK; Styled by MARIANA VERA for Halley Resources.
||
|
||
hellish friction stop. The
CONFESSION: more we wear them, the outside (with your mask,
wearing only no-show more those extra inches which is kinda like a sock Teal Magic Socks,
socks up until a few of soft cotton give li’l obsession, but we like to for the face?) to get Soxytoes, `199
years ago, we all have a But then *dramatic hugs to our lower call it a soft spot. groceries or to avoid
tonne of those neutral pause*, we all have those appendages. And we are thrilled to cleaning your room, we’ve accumulated—
ones that supposedly calf-high, patent-leather So, our ‘lingerie’ announce that, mid- always put on some real shout-out to our fave
cover the tips of our boots that rub against dresser drawer now = quarantine, our socks first. brands Happy Socks, Raleigh Flex Leather Flats,
transformation into full- MICHAEL Michael Kors,
toes and are meant to bare legs so much, it feels all socks in a tonne of Because the days of Soxytoes—deserve to be `14,000
stay hidden. (PSA: they like we have shin splints. fresh styles. Two-tone! blown ‘Sock People’ is stuffing visible ‘invisible’ witnessed. They don’t
e a lo
never do. They bunch up (TBH, shin splints seem complete. Without hosiery into shoes are support the look, they hav t
Tie-dye! Ribbed! Sheer! st
of
under your arches or like the only apt Metallic! (Just look up something covering our gone, we’d like to take this *make* the look.
ju
feet, our outfits— ck- related
We
slide off altogether. description of this peculiar and to the right for a time to apologise for ever so
In case it is not clear, pain.) So caving in and taste.) Haters will say we consisting of leggings being embarrassed by the
fe
elin
they are terrible!) buying a pair of pink crew have an unhealthy and oversized tees, or idea that someone could
the occasional ‘regular’
gs, o
socks—you know, the tell we were wearing socks.
|||
||
|||
ones between ankle and ensemble of jeans and a All the amazing, long-
k
presentable top—just
a
knee length—is not a bad enough-to-be-seen styles
y?
!
idea and can make the aren’t outfits. And
whenever you venture
fast glam
ANGELINA PONGENER, 23
“I love experimenting with different styles.
Like for this look, I have teamed a casual-cool
sweatshirt with an uber-feminine, tulle skirt. I have HETH TANNA, 21
matched my lips to the colour of my hair—I love “I am a huge fan of
how it adds to the whole girly-but-fierce vibe.” co-ords: they carry
the bold ‘mean
business’ attitude of
a pantsuit, but with
MAHIMA an off-duty, relaxed
By: MANVEEN GULIANI; Fashion interns: AARUSHI GARG AND ANANYA BANERJEE
RAMNANI, 23 vibe. Everything
“Winter, for me, is all about the set I am
about (faux) fur, fuzz, wearing screams
and feathers! And festive, making
sorbet shades have it ideal for the
my heart. I have holiday season.”
layered my favourite
ice-blue jacket over
a baby pink top. The
accessories—beret,
sunglasses, and the
pearls—all add to
the Parisian-winter
vibe I wanted to
emanate.”
DEEKSHA BHUTANI, 21
“I wanted to go for a boho-chic vibe here, with a dash
of yesteryear charm. So I picked a printed dress, with a
Street Style
sweetheart neckline, styled it with a loosely-tied scarf. The
sunglasses and soft curls further enhance the retro feel,
while the gold necklace adds a hint of bling.”
We took the battle of the best-dressed

to people’s homes (hello, social
distancing!), and were so impressed by
your style picks and outfit choices.
DIYA BASU, 21
“I love creating
tone-on-tone
outfits—you can
ANIMA KANDIR, do so much with
21 colours, and it helps
“Stripes and prints you stand out with
make for such minimal effort. I
a head-turning have paired the AYUSHREE KAKATY,
outing together. In bubblegum-pink, 21
this photograph, off-shoulder dress “I am an outdoorsy
I am wearing a with equally pop, person, and I wanted to
fun, half-striped printed green socks. channel that through my
dress over a The print on the look...with a hint of glam. GAYATHRI MOHAN, 27
printed, fitted top. socks helps break So I paired a cropped “Statement sleeves are trending right now,
To amplify the the otherwise plain T-shirt with a side-slit, and I decided to ease into the trend with
impact, I opted for canvas, and the red checkered skirt, cap, this blouse. It lends so much character to
a dark mouth and scarf and matching and red sneakers, that the boring jeans-and-blouse combination.
dramatic eyeliner.” lips add the perfect together make for an I have thrown in some quirky-cool trinkets
finishing touches.” Instagram-worthy outfit.” in the mix, to up the ante.”
000 COSMOPOLITAN NOVEMBER 2020

DECEMBER 2020 DECEMBER 2020 COSMOPOLITAN 61
fast glam
KNIT-PICKING TO MANY FIRSTS
A staple for chilly climes, knitwear is back with an AW20 Arpita Designer Arpita Mehta talks to Cosmo about
update: dressy, literally and metaphorically. So as all of Mehta her brand new store and website, and all
grandma's age-old techniques—cable stitches, saxon that has been keeping her busy this year...
braids, purls, et al—find their way on runway, these could
just be your newest work-to-party favourites. Roomy fits— Cosmo: Congratulations on your flagship store
often belted for definition—and mononotones ruled the in Khar, Mumbai. In times when e-commerce is
roost, but there were also the sexy, bodycon versions, and
so crucial, how important is it to have a physical
a deluge of prints and patterns. With modern elements like
The flagship presence, too?
draping, roll-necks, side slits, and cut-outs. Wear these bbs store in Mumbai
by themselves, or pair with stylish outerwear (hint: long Arpita Mehta: “These challenging times have also given
coats!). Or ease into the trend with co-ords. While boots, of us an overview of how businesses can sustain in any
all lengths, styles, and colours, are the current go-tos, feel circumstances. Digital portals are the need of the hour—
free to swap 'em for high-heels. And extra points for some they connect you to a larger audience. But when one is
bling accessories and bold make-up. creating luxury Indianwear, it is equally important to have
a physical store, too. The garments we create need to
be touched, felt, and tried on. It is essential to give the
TREND customer that sense of luxury while picking special-day
OF THE outfits.”
MONTH
C: You also have a brand new website. How has
digitalisation changed things for you?
A lehenga by AM: “In recent times, platforms like Facebook and
Arpita Mehta
Instagram have really helped push the brand and
The label's raise awareness. But having your own website is what
latest collection,
Meadaura converts that awareness into sales. On the business
front, it has created a strong medium of revenue for us.
Creatively, I have learnt that, due to so much exposure,
OLD TIMES' SAKE the attention span of people has reduced drastically.
Brass & Maple
ALTUZARRA
In an homage to the mini-bag So, you have to be consistent in putting out good,
movement of the early aughts (an Medium
meaningful content.”
BALMAIN
Swinger Bag,
era which is quite the rage this `24,500
AGNONA
season, BTW), Coach has revived C: Your label has completed a decade this year.
one of its archival styles from What are some of your biggest learnings from the
ALEXANDER MCQUEEN
the '80s: the Swinger Bag. The

Midnight Navy
journey?
zip-top bag has been reintroduced
Medium AM: “There are a few things that have stuck with me.
in glove-tannned leather and the
Swinger Bag, Like, you need to create your own, unique identity as a
Patrol OUT brand’s iconic logo signature—via
a film starring Paris Hilton and
`26,500
designer to be able to stand out. And, it is critical to be
Reversible
Packable Puffer
AND ABOUT members of the Coach family, consistent, and to keep innovating."
Inspired by travel this season—to which reiterartes the label's
Jacket, `22,900
hometowns, exotic locales, or even just festive campaign message: C: What is your favourite trend at the moment?
the living rooms—TUMI recently launched 'Holiday is Where You Find It'. The AM: “Kaftans. They are so versatile—you can wear
its first sustainable range, PAX Outerwear bag comes in a variety of colours, them anywhere, from a beach to a wedding. And they’re
Collection. Made with high-tech water resistant features the iconic turnlock
Style
nylon, among other features, the pieces comfortable, sexy, and free flowing!"
closure, and has a detachable
are reversible, and come with a hidden strap for when you want to wear it
compartment within the collar that allows C: You’re known for fusing Indianwear with western.
as a crossbody.
you to convert them into comfortable What, according to you, is a must-have piece?
neck pillows in an instant, making AM: “A fun lehenga. It comes in separates, and all the
News
them perfect on-the-go pieces can be styled in many different ways, together or
companions. with other clothes. You can wear the lehenga the classic
way, or team it with a solid, crop top for a top-and-skirt
Clairmont
Packable Puffer look; drape the dupatta in a sari style; pair the blouse
Jacket, `19,900 with a different sari, etc."
THE NEWEST, LATEST, AND
MOST TALKED-ABOUT C: Your top tip for the Cosmo woman?
FASHION STUFF AM: "You’re never too old or young to experiment with
fashion, so have fun. Invest in good-quality, versatile
By Humra Afroz Khan pieces. Also, make sure your hair is always in place, it
could ruin the most perfect outfit."
fast glam
The OH V
Birdy Phone
Bag in
DANCE ON TECH-SAVVY 2.0 Canary
Taking inspiration from the disco era of the '70s, with all Orange,
When it comes to opulence, `24,250 each
its colour and sheeny-shine, homegrown label Essgee has why should your tech gadgets
introduced their latest collection, Disco Biscuit. In keeping with feel left out? Outhouse Jewellery
the luxury-bohemian aesthetic that the label is synonymous has recently introduced phone
with, the AW20 capsule has the '70s reimagined to fit the and AirPod bags, through
millennial world, through an array of soft ribs, lustrous, glossy their new line—OH V Birdie.
satins, recycled polyester, mesh, acrylic knitwear, and more. The brand, recently certified
The colour palette is consciously kept vivid, to "uplift the by PETA India to be 100%
wearer from the pandemic gloom". Also, following a minimal cruelty-free in their processes
waste policy, the sequinned pieces from the range will be and products, will create the
handmade with PVC-free sequins, only on order, and the brand bags in cork and vegan leather.
will employ migrant workers to create them. Handcrafted and available in
six colours, the bags aren't
just designed to offer the
wearer hands-free convenience The OH V
Birdy AirPods
with a dash of luxury, but also
Case in Beige
promise to double as standout Cork, `15,500
accessories to complement
your #OOTD.
GG MARMONT 2.0 PAILLETTES

Since they made their debut in 2016, the coveted Marmont chain
bags by Gucci have been reinvented from time to time—and the
latest pieces come with a sparkly, sequinned glow up for the festive
season. Available in black, silver, gold, baby pink, and mint green,
these gamorous pieces are perfect for evening out. Carry one with an
equally blinged-out outfit, or pare down with something subtle—you're
guaranteed to have all eyes on you.
GET
COMME DES GARÇONS

THIS
RICHARD QUINN
SIMONE ROCHA
JW ANDERSON
WATCH
OUT
FOR... BALLOONED HEMLINES
Also known as puffball or bubble hems, this trend is huge (in every sense of the
CHRISTOPHER JOHN ROGERS
word, really) in the fashion world at the moment. Cinching the ends of billowy
dresses, these hems add dramatic pomp and flair to any silhouette, regardless
of colour, pattern, or print. And you don't have to stop at the hems, either—all-
GG Marmont
cocooning gowns, exaggerated sleeves, dramatic headgear, all kinds of volume
2.0 Paillettes,
Gucci, price works. The word on the fashion street is also that this super-upped volume-game is
on request also a commentary on the need for women to, unapologetically, occupy space and
be visible. What's not to be in awe of?!
fast glam
The Paul Smith Snapshot from the
Chain Reaction Capsule book, Paul Smith
Metallic Collection
Sneakers, Versace,
Trench
`1,27,200
Jacket, Paul Smith,
Deme by the book
Gabriella,
`15,600
Embellished
Holographic
Sling Bag, Aldo,
Silver Mirrored `7,999
Pilot Sunglasses,
Dior, price on
request
THE GLORIOUS 50!
This year marks the 50th anniversary of Paul
Smith, and to celebrate the golden jubilee,
IN STYLE SPACE the brand has launched a Capsule Collection.
The range of reimagined archive prints for
As we inch closer to the year-end, all
men and women, span from 1988 to 2002,
things shimmery and shiny are finding
Pointed offering a snapshot of the designer's colourful,
their way back to the top, and leading that
boots, H&M, graphic, and, sometimes, surrealist approach.
movement is metallic silver. Even touted
`2,999 Sir Paul has also released an eponymous
as the newest black by its legion of fans,
VERSACE
book, Paul Smith, that, through 50 different
this one lends a futuristic-ish take to the
objects from over the years, highlights the
high-shine trend, and opens up a world
brand's iconic journey. In addition, the new
RIMZIM DADU
PACO RABANNE
of options when it comes to textures The Paul Smith

Paul Smith Foundation will offer assistance and Snapshot from Capsule
(leather, rexine, even plastic, etc), effects Snapshot from the
advice to creative people on various issues. the book, Paul Collection book, Paul Smith
(holography, iridescence, et al), and Smith
elements (beads, crystals, tassels, and co).
CINNAMON STITCH
Fanny pack, Kanika Manchanda had always loved the
Seraphina
Forever 21, Rune Beige idea of comfortable yet fashionable clothing.
Blue Heels,
`899 Mules,
`3,500 However, it was during the recent pandemic
`2,800
that the seed finally reached fruition. "I
realised that, with people staying indoors so
much, there would be many like me—bored
of wearing drab outfits," she tells Cosmo.
That inspired Kanika to launch Cinnamon
Stitch, featuring clothes that are "quirky and
stylish", and can be worn indoors as well
LABEL as out. "I wanted them to be soft, light, and
OF THE good quality, suitable for any weather and
MONTH for all skin types. I have also been fascinated
Oriel Cream by tie-dye—the techniques used and the
Heels, colour-possibilities in it." The pieces are
`3,500 largely made of cotton-dominant materials,
Chiara
Cream Heels, though the latest collection also uses knit
`3,300 A STEP FORWARD blends. The brand's USP, Kanika says, is
Designer Payal Singhal and PETA-approved shoe label, PAIO, that it is a work-in-progress. "So we are quick
have come together to launch a brand new creative endeavour. to introduce new styles, take notice of any
The two had first tied up in 2019, and the Payal Singhal X PAIO emerging market trends, and can pivot in the
range now consists of 29 exquisite styles—like mules, sandals, direction that our customers want."
stilettoes, and block heels—to suit all occasions. Each piece is
vegan, cruelty-free, and sustainable, crafted out of faux silks,
substitute leathers, and the like, by local karigars. The footwear
especially stands out for its use of embroidery—a mix of thread
work, frayed tassels, appliqué, patchwork, and more—that gives
old-school designs a modern, bohemian twist.
fast glam
There might not be a big New Year’s

Eve bash this time ‘round, and most
of us will probably be attending a
virtual party in our silk PJs, but that
shouldn’t stop us from putting on a
glamorous face. And a fitting farewell
to 2020 will be a high-on-glitter make-
up look (eyes, lips, brows...whatever
you fancy!). To help you orchestrate
that flawlessly, we have curated a
moodboard to ensure you start the
new year on a bright note.
By Meghna Sharma
Photographs: ROBERTO MEZA; (background Glitters) SHUTTURSTOCK.COM
Glitter Therapy
fast glam
ACE THAT
AIRBRUSHED
Smashbox L.A. EFFECT Kiko Milano Smart
Cover Shot Colour Eyeshadow
Eye Palette in To let your sparkly eye in Metallic Pine
Venice Peach, make-up truly shine, you Green, `390
`6,500 need skin so flawless
that it can reflect light.
And just a full-coverage
foundation probably
won’t get you the
desired result. What you
need is a combination
of radiance-boosting
concealer and make-
ALTUZARRA
up fixing spray that
offers a dewy finish.
Once you have aced
the base, spritz some
setting spray and swipe
concealer on top. Then
dust translucent powder
Colorbar Drama
all over to set it and Dior Flash Blast Lipstick in
mist s’more spray. Luminizer My Pixie, `1,200
Radiance
Booster Pen
in Apricot,
`4,000
W
hy stop at lids when you can create glitter-rich looks in many,
many ways. Yes, we love bedazzled eyes and a bounce-light-off-
cheekbones kinda effect, but your pucker is another precious
feature that can be highlighted. There are a bunch of lipstick and gloss
PRADA
formulas infused with shimmer particles, but if you didn’t invest in one,
loose glitter (the sustainable kinds, please) will come to your rescue. To
cop GCDS’ look, swipe a coat of sticky gloss on lips, then carefully put
loose glitter using a flat eyeshadow brush. Alternatively, you can mix the
gloss and glitter first, and apply the mix to the lips.
M.A.C Pigment
Too Faced in Rich Purple,
Born This `1,695
Way The
Natural Nudes
Eyeshadow
Palette,
ANNA SUI
`3,500 approx
NUDE
NECESSITIES
Maybelline New
York Hyper Curl Love your nudes and
Mascara, `390 not so willing to step
GCDS
out of your comfort
zone? Well, pull out Lime Crime
Diamond
your favourite palette Dew Liquid
because it probably Eyeshadow in
T
has a few glittery Pixie, `1,900
o create standout, sparkling looks, let your imagination run wild. The
runways threw ample inspiration our way...but the trick lies in recognising options, too. If not, Makeup
what works for you. If you have big eyes, make them the focal point then turn your beloved Revolution
Glitter Paste
by swiping on a matte eyeshadow on lids, and topping them up with a glitter highlighter into a in Power
formula in the same shade, à la Anna Sui. If you have mono lids, then play with multi-tasker and add a Hungry,
subtle, glimmering formulas on the crease area—like the models at Prada, generous layer on your `675
who were seen sporting contrasting jewel tones in graphic styles. And if can’t lids as well as the high
part with your beloved cat-eye, you’ll find your match in the colour-blocked cat- MyGlamm Tint It points of your face.
Up Lip & Cheek
eye version seen at Altuzarra. Stain, `695 FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN
fast glam
or polymers, all of
THESE MASCARAS Underrated Yet
Wh
y risk
swe
ating o
f f this maste
rpie
ce?
which are perfectly
safe, lash-friendly 1
2
1 Deserving
of So Much Hype:
ingredients, insists
Ron.
Brown Mascara
So how did this
technically harmless 3
product get such a 1. Best for

bad rap? Because Dramatic Curl
of the way some
people try to take it
Ben ef it R o ller Las h
Cu rlin g Mascara, ` 2, 3 20 The secret weapon of make-up bags everywhere!
off. “Scrubbing and 2. Best for
tugging is best for Next-Level Length
getting gum off
Really Bad I
Maybelline New York
your shoe—not
mascara off your
Lash Sensational
Mascara Waterproof,
`510
“
recently bought a
brown mascara by
face,” says US-based mistake (too much
Advice
3. Best for pinot while late-night
dermatologist Mona Intense Volume Amazon-ing, as one
Gohara, MD. Not Too Faced Better Than does). So I tried it,
only can such rough Sex Mascara, `1,050
It’s Time
(travel size) and you know what?
mascara-removal Forget what you have
mess with your lash 2
heard: this stuff is
health, she explains, *actually* great. It
to Forget
it can also “traumatise 3 doesn’t look like you
your already-thin have mascara on—
THESE MAKE- and honestly, that’s
eye skin, break
UP REMOVERS its sneaky appeal.
capillaries, and even The one
‘Waterproof mascara is not worsen wrinkling.” 4 your lashes
need if...
Think of brown vs
black mascara like
There’s a very
good for your lashes.’ Psh. simple solution: an
5
6
tinted moisturiser
vs foundation. The
Hold my beer. oil-based make- former is soft and
up remover or 1 ~fresh~ like the
cleanser, which 4 ...you want to define ads you see with
lashes—in fact, will easily dissolve every single lash models sporting
it’s pretty much waterproof mascara. Innisfree Skinny Waterproof fresh, glowing skin,
exactly like regular Just dab a little on Zerocara in Brown, `810 in the best woke-up-
4. Best for Quick,
mascara, with one a cotton ball and— Rinse-Free 2 like-this way. It gives
key difference: “It’s key word—gently Removal ...you want a curled effect lashes just the right
anhydrous, meaning slide it down your Decléor Aroma Cleanse DIOR Diorshow Iconic amount of oomph
it doesn’t contain lashes until they’re
Bi-Phase Caring Cleanser Overcurl Mascara in Brown, without being extra,
& Makeup Remover,
`1,650 `3,600 and that’s especially
water,” says US-based nice and clean.
3 clutch for days when
cosmetic chemist Ron Follow with your 5. Best for
...you want tonnes of length I don’t want a full
S
Robinson, Founder regular face wash Ultra-Moisturising face of make-up (so
omewhere is super harsh, and of BeautyStat. (hopefully something Cleansing Chanel Inimitable Intense
By: RUBY BUDDEMEYER; Photograph; GETTYIMAGES.COM
Mascara Multi-Dimension basically every day in

along the unless you hate your (Formulas made lightweight and Avène Micellar Lotion,
Sophistiqué in Brun, price these times).
`1,400 5
way, someone eyelashes or you’re, with water are much creamy) and your on request And that’s the
started IDK, cool with less likely to cling mascara will be 4 story. I am crowning
6. Best for
spreading this not-so- them breaking off to your lashes when totally gone. Sensitive Eyes ...you want lots of lift, brown mascara my
cute rumour about and falling out, you they come into And that concludes curl, and fullness beauty ‘discovery’—
L’Oréal Paris Dermo
our favourite beauty shouldn’t be using it contact with rain, this li’l myth-busting Exper tise Lip And Eye ETUDE HOUSE Lash Perm aka the thing I knew
product. It goes a little at all. sweat, or tears.) lesson. TY for
Make-Up Remover, `390
Curl-Fix Mascara in Brown, existed but never
By: LAUREN BALSAMO
`950 knew was amazing.”

something like this: Yeah, scary. Instead, waterproof listening—now, pls
waterproof mascara— Except, not true at mascara is made with resume living your 5
in all its long-lasting, all. The stuff itself a combination of best waterproofed ...you want extra volume
HAPPY LASHES
and definition
curl-holding glory— *isn’t* bad for your waxes, silicones, and/ lash life. n
Kiko Milano Smart Colour
Mascara in Warm Brown,
72 COSMOPOLITAN DECEMBER 2020 FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN `590 DECEMBER 2020 COSMOPOLITAN 000
h e Re a l L i p De al
T
Charlotte Tilbury
Lip Lustre in Pillow
Talk, `2,200
Lakmé 9To5 All you need to know about the two trending YSL Vernis à
Weightless Matte
Mousse Lip & lipstick finishes of the moment. Lèvres Water Stain
Lipstick in Coral,
Cheek Color in
Magenta Kiss, By Meghna Sharma `2,900 approx
`625
Huda Beauty
Power Bullet
Matte Lipstick
in Bachelorette,
`1,995
Colorbar Sinful
Matte Lip
Color in Sultry, NYX Professional
`1,200 Makeup Butter Gloss
in Peaches And
Cream, `550
Faces Canada
Glam On Velvet
Matte Lipstick in
Bobbi Brown
Pink Alert, `599
Crushed Liquid
Lip Color in Juicy
Date, `1,900
Kiko Milano Velvet

Passion Matte
Lipstick in 303,
`1,190
Too Faced Lip
Injection Extreme
Lip Plumper in
Bubblegum Yum,
`2,000
SOFT MATTE leave a velvet or suede-like put forward a powerful pout. SATIN GLOSS new-age glosses are no longer suggest you line your lips with
Matte lipsticks have truly finish on lips, which has a more Translation: steer clear of If you are still scarred by the tacky. In fact, thanks to a host a clear, matte, lip liner, swipe
become the LBD of the beauty lived-in effect. However, wearing neutral or nude shades that can glossy lip movement of the of lip-loving ingredients in the on a gloss, and then line your
world. You just can’t go wrong matte lipstick on chapped make you look pale. Opt for a ’90s, we have good news. mix, these formulas glide on lips once more to seal the
with one! But thanks to the ‘filter’ lips is a no-go! Make sure you strong pop of colour through a This beauty trend, just like its lips like hot butter on toast, edges. If you are into nudes,
culture, we are moving away give your lips a good scrub, bright red, fuschia, or tangerine counterparts from the same and leave a satin, oil-like finish. then opt for a lip plumping
from harsh mattes for softer so that the lipstick application lipstick. These shades were a era, has become more refined Many women are afraid to formula to achieve that pillowy,
versions. Enter: soft matte is smooth and seamless. The hit in the ’30s, when the matte with time. Shedding its sticky choose a bold shade as glossy plush pucker backstage pros
lipsticks that offers the best of key to pulling off matte lips formula came into being, and image (finish- and look-wise), anything tends to bleed. But have been obsessed with for
both worlds—these formulas this season is to ensure you add to the vintage vibe. we are happy to report that to prevent any boo-boos, we many a season.
fast glam
SMOOTH, SILKY
LOCKS ARE JUST A THE COLLAB
Beauty
THE SWEET BLOWDRY AWAY... OF THE YEAR
We love tools that make our lives easier. And
SMELL OF given the rise in the demand of at-home tools IS HERE!
High-street brand Zara
JOY this year, Panasonic recently launched one of
its most-coveted hairdryers in India. It has collaborated with Jo
Scoop
A fragrance can mean different Malone CBE, Founder of
comes with the patented Nanoe
things to different people, but an Jo Loves, for a range of
Technology, which uses ultra-fine water
emotion one's favourite 'fume has particles that penetrate into hair unique, unisex
the power to evoke is a sense of cuticles to maintain the moisture balance fragrances. The
happiness... And if you are of the scalp and strands. Along with that, the collection, called Zara
searching for the little joys of life, platinum ions technology coats the hair surface and Emotions, boasts eight
do consider adding one of these tightens hair cuticles to protect it from UV rays. PS:
precious scents to your
WE BRING YOU THE this hairdryer also prevents static electricity, Panasonic
fragrances featuring
collection. LATEST GOSSIP, giving you salon-like smoothness. EH-

floral, fruity, woody, and
TRENDS, AND TIPS NA45RP62B musky notes that work
on both women and
(Clockwise from top to bottom) FROM THE WORLD Hair Dryer,
`6,999 men, for day and night.
All Saints Incense City EDP, OF BEAUTY! And we love how each Zara Emotions
`4,800/100ml approx; Lancôme
Idôle EDP, `4,200/50ml approx; scent is housed in a Ebony Wood EDP,
Gucci Memoire D'Une Odeur clear, fuss-free bottle. `2,790/90ml
EDP, `5,450/40ml; Byredo
Sundazed EDP, `16,700/100ml
approx; OUAI Melrose Place EDP, Forest
`4,100/100ml approx; Rahua Essentials
Palo Santo Oil Perfume, Gulaab Khaas
`2,300/10ml approx; Frédéric Kajal in Earth
Malle Jean-Claude Ellena Rose & Brown, `775
Cuir EDP, `15,600/50ml approx;
Mizensir Celebes Wood EDP,
`17,000/100ml approx
Forest
Essentials
# Tre n d in g Tinted Lip

Serum
Madhu Rasa,
FLICKS OF FANTASY `1,295
We love how, every season, the backstage pros
come up with new ways to sport the classic cat-
eye. For AW/20, the area many designers drew
inspiration from was 'fantasy world', and the results
are gorgeous. Vera Wang went full goth with thick
flicks accentuated with feathers, while Miu Miu's
double cat-eye (a combination of an exaggerated
and subtle liner) added to the modern vintage
effect. Valentino, however, took the cake with a
lethal triple flick—a blend of cat eyeliner and
floating liner—with a hint of studded, sparkly
fabulousity. But if you want a tamer version of
the trend, then take a cue from Marco di
ARTISANAL
Vincenzo and Stella McCartney. MAKE-UP, ANYONE?
Indi beauty is truly having a moment, and
Forest Essentials has given us something
to be cheerful about this holiday season.
The brand just launched a range of
artisanal make-up. Infused with botanical
Photograph: AGATA PEC
extracts, the range currently features a

lip serum that comes in four variants (and
with a promise to keep your pucker
hydrated), and kohl, available in shades
of grey, black, and brown, that offers
intense colour in a single swipe.
FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN
cosmo interview
Sweater and
pants, both
Th e M a n
Marks &
Spencer;
watch, Tissot
of t he
Momen t
Vicky
Kaushal
From a shy guy (who found his creative expression
on stage) to a self-assured young man carving a
niche in the echelons of Bollywood, the 32-year-old
actor's life could make for a riveting script. We catch
up with Vicky Kaushal to learn more about him,
including his 'biggest' achievement so far and why
he never mulls over any decision.
Styling: Ayesha Amin Nigam and Shaurya Athley;
Photographs: Tarun Vishwa; Interview: Humra Afroz Khan
cosmo interview
C: In hindsight, what has been your biggest learning
“Growing up, from this unprecedented period?

VK: “My family and I would often sit in the balcony of our
I was very shy. home, and we couldn’t hear a sound...there was pin-drop
silence! It was shocking—we had never thought we’d see
I never liked the
O
Mumbai like this. That’s when I realised that we have all
n the same day as this interview, in been a part of a race—people running, wanting to be
spotlight.” 2019, Vicky Kaushal received the

prestigious—his first ever—National
somewhere, there was no stability. I also realised that, at the
end of the day, your family is everything. It is your family
Award for Best Actor. In 2020, as he that comforts you and is there for you. Some of us were
sits with Cosmo for his cover privileged enough to spend this time with our loved ones, to
interview—also his first—a lot has have the security of food and shelter. It makes you see how
changed. But in a world gone awry, riddled with derailed much you need to give back to society as well...that we have
plans, Vicky has few reasons to complain. Part of it could got to take care of each other. Another thing I was really
be owing to the fact that he is a man of instincts, who likes happy to notice, was an increased interest in hygiene,
to go with the flow, and take each day as it comes. “I don't which, until now, so many ignored. Cleanliness of air, water,
plan things in great detail... I wake up in the morning, the environment... Who would have thought that people
accept whatever life throws at me, give it my all...and would teach each other how to wash hands in 2020?!”
hope for the best,” he explains. Plus, despite the
turbulent ride that this year has been, the 32-year old has C: Tell us a little bit about your childhood.
Shirt and pants, both Shivan
kept busy, both personally and professionally. Vicky's VK: “I was very shy, simple, but also a big chupa rustam
& Narresh; shoes, Christian work has been making headlines—the actor had a big [dark horse]. My mom would think my younger brother,
Louboutin; jacket, Rimzim release (Bhoot Part One: The Haunted Ship) in Sunny, was the naughty one, while I was the sincere son, but
Dadu; necklace, Valliyan;
glasses, stylists own
February, managed to wrap up an upcoming film “in the in reality, I was the sly one! I had a very normal, middle-class
nick of time” before lockdown, and has a full plate for upbringing. And as a child, I never liked the spotlight. I
next year, including teaming up again with Aditya Dhar, wanted to be one in the crowd, so that I wasn’t pin-pointed
the director of Uri: The Surgical Strike (which happens to or singled out, for anything...good or bad. But I was a good
be Vicky’s first 100-crore film, and one of the highest student, who enjoyed playing sports and loved watching
Hindi movie grossers of all time). Conjectures about him movies.”
dating a certain someone kept the rumour mills working
overtime, too, with our social media feeds inundated with C: What kind of movies did you watch?
pictorial references (the only thing he admits to disliking VK: “I had phases. Initially, I was a big fan of Amitabh
about stardom—“how people are so quick to judge us, Bachchan, then it was Shah Rukh Khan, Akshay Kumar,
and all aspects of our personal life are up for scrutiny and Govinda... I used to be obsessed with Govinda’s films—they
discussion”). were so entertaining! Back then, there was no Netflix...we
In this chat, the engineer-turned-actor opens up about would go to the theatres to watch movies with the family.
his journey to Bollywood, the perks and perils of stardom, Otherwise, there was only cable TV, so we’d be glued to the
his improved interactions with the ladies, among other television, watching whatever was playing on it. I grew up in
facts. Mumbai, but my ancestral village is in Punjab, and my nani
had a VHS there. Once, we got Jeet—this film starring
Cosmo: You were last seen in Bhoot. What all has Salman Khan, Karisma Kapoor, and Sunny Deol, from
kept you busy since? somewhere—and we watched it on repeat, all the time,
Vicky Kaushal: “After Bhoot, I was busy with Shoojit waiting eagerly between the power cuts.”
Sircar’s Sardar Udham Singh—we were lucky to finish
just before lockdown. Lockdown was a mixed bag for me, C: And did you always want to be an actor?
like for most of us. In the first month, everyone just saw it VK: “I think, subconsciously, it was always there. Because,
as a nice change to their otherwise hectic life. I was taking
it easy, too—I didn’t want to do anything really, but stay at
home and be with family. After that stage, everyone
suddenly tried to keep busy...as did I—it was important
for my mental sanity.”
cosmo interview
“I do think I am headstrong.
Also, I am instinctively drawn
to compassion...and to people
who are compassionate.”
On Vicky: shirt, jacket, and

pants, all Gaurav Gupta;
shoes, Christian Louboutin
On Priyadarshini: top,
Zabella; pants, Rohit Gandhi +
Rahul Khanna; shoes, Rimzim
Dadu; ring, Esme; earrings,
Outhouse Jewellery
cosmo interview
even as a shy child, I would participate in all dance

performances and stage shows. I really enjoyed that.
Otherwise, I was so reserved, that no-one had even
heard my voice! But on stage, I felt liberated. It gave me
the chance to express myself, to have fun. So, I guess
acting was always in my system...I just never gave it
serious thought. In fact, after school, I took up
engineering. I realised soon, though, that I could become C: How will the people closest to you, describe
an engineer, but I would never truly enjoy it. I graduated you?
from college in 2009—with good grades, and a job offer VK: “I think they’d say I’m very stubborn. You know,
through campus placements—but by then, I had already when people ask me when my birthday is, and I tell them
decided that I was going to be an actor.” it is on May 16, they’re like, ‘Oh, no wonder you’re so
stubborn!’. Honestly, I do think I am headstrong. Also, I
C: How is stardom treating you? am instinctively drawn to compassion...and to people
VK: “You know, the love and affection you get after who are compassionate. I like simplicity, and would like
becoming a celebrity is beautiful! When people like you to believe I’m an uncomplicated person.”
and your work, it is an inexplicable feeling. That is my
favourite part about being famous. But I don’t like the C: Would you call yourself a risk-taker, or do you
way things work on social media—you get judged too make calculated moves?
soon. The appreciation is a blessing, but sometimes, this VK: “I don't plan things in great detail. I am a very
uncalled-for trolling can be upsetting. However, I won’t instinctive person, and I truly, truly believe in—and
trade what I have for anything else. The good is so good, follow—the idea that if you give your 100 percent to your
it overshadows the bad. I did want to be an actor, but I present, your future will be better than you had hoped
hadn’t thought, in my wildest dreams, that God would be for. So I think in a dedicated way, and give it my all. Once
so kind to me.” I have taken something on, I will get into it whole-
heartedly—I won’t over-analyse its impact, or sit and
C: How have you changed after becoming famous? calculate how it will add to my life, or chalk out
VK: “I think I have changed...or evolved, actually...into a permutations and combinations about where I want it to
more self-assured person. When I was starting out, I was take me. I just let things take their course.
uncertain of my strengths. But now, perhaps with I also strongly believe in God and destiny, so I have
experience—the number of films I’ve done, the co- blind faith in karma. I believe if I am doing something
actors and directors I have worked with, the kind of roles with good intentions and honesty, for the right reason, it
I have played—the confidence within me has grown would not lead me to a place bad, even if doesn’t take me
tremendously. exactly where I had intended to be. That, no matter what
Also, with fame, I think one ends up becoming a little the outcome, it will not adversely affect me.
guarded. Because, your personal lives suddenly come Of course, I weigh things before I take a decision—is it
into the public domain—and you don’t want all the okay to do this—everyone does that. But I don’t mull
discussion and scrutiny to affect your loved ones. Earlier, over it. I like to go with the flow. I wake up in the
I was more forthcoming about everything in my life. But morning, accept whatever life throws at me, give it my
stuff gets written about you without any authenticity, all....and hope for the best.”
without it being cross-checked. It almost becomes a
game of Chinese whispers—how it starts and how it ends C: There have been rumours about you being in a
are two completely different stories altogether. And then relationship. Are you seeing anyone?
you have to offer up several clarifications and VK: “[Laughs] This is exactly the kind of subject I avoid
justifications. So, with time, I have learnt to be more talking about...”
On Vicky: shirt and pants, both
careful about issues that are not work-related, and to Rohit Gandhi + Rahul Khanna;
safeguard my privacy.” C: Fair enough. But at least tell us this: are you a shoes, Christian Louboutin
romantic? A charmer?
On Priyadarshini: dress,
VK: “I would like to believe so [laughs]. I think I am a Akansha Gajria; shoes, Zori
romantic. But I don’t think I have ever been a charmer. world; earrings, Bellofox; rings,
You know, in college, I was not popular with the ladies, at Radhika Agrawal
all. To be honest, I have never had the kind of confidence
cosmo interview
On Vicky: sweater and
pants, both Marks &
Spencer; watch, Tissot
“In college,
ecstatic! But when I saw my parents—and what it
On Priyadarshini: top meant to them—that was something else. Their
I was really
and pants, both Shivan reaction took the experience to another level for
& Narresh; rings (set
of 2) and bracelets (set me. Moments like that are my biggest
reserved, of 4), all Flower Child

By Shaheen Abbas;
to directly approach someone and be upfront
about my feelings. I was really reserved. I was one
achievements.”
and not
earrings and ring (on
the right hand), both of those guys who took things really slow, wanting C: Are you an emotional person, in general?
Studio Metallurgy to get to know the other person better first, always When was the last time you cried?
popular a little hesitant... And in that ‘subtlety’, I used to

often miss the chance and wouldn’t be able to tell
VK: “I cried just last week... We were shooting for a
scene, and I had to cry for it, so I did [laughs]. But I
with the them how I felt.” am an emotional person. I won’t say I cry often, but
I do. Like, I cry while watching certain movies.”
ladies,at C: Have things changed now?

VK: “They have, certainly. I am more confident C: And what gives you strength?
all” now, both on the personal and professional front.”
C: When not working, how do you like to

VK: “My parents always tell me this: there’s only
one version of right. A right can never be proven
wrong; a right will never feel wrong. Wrong has
spend your day? many shades and colours to it, but right is always
VK: “I am a completely nocturnal person. I love just right. So when I know in my heart that what I
my time at night—I like watching movies, reading did or am doing is right, it gives me strength. If I
a book, enjoying this ‘me time’. So I wake up late. can face myself in the mirror, I have nothing to
But I can’t be tardy—I need to work out, engage worry about. If I know my actions are in sync with
in some fitness activities. I live with my family, so my beliefs, I know I’m on the right track. And as I
when I am not working, I like to chill at home, said, I’m also a big believer in karma. So, again, if
spend time with them, maybe call a friend over, or my intentions are good and my heart is in the right
go visit them...the usual.” place, I know life will only teach me things, it won’t
cause me harm. That keeps me going.”
C: You seem to love to dabble in all sorts of
hobbies, too—playing the veena, learning C: Finally, what are some of the things you are
horseback riding... looking forward to in 2021?
VK: “Actually, the veena was part of a professional VK: “I’m excited for Sardar Udham Singh, a film
commitment. I was learning it in the beginning of based on the revolutionary freedom fighter. I’m
the year, but had to pause for a bit in the really looking forward to seeing how people will
lockdown. Even horse-riding started out for a receive it. I will also be shooting for The Immortal
project, but I enjoyed it so much, that I Ashwatthama, with writer-director Aditya Dhar,
continued. I’ll need to hone my riding skills among other work. I just want to be on set and keep
further for my upcoming film, The Immortal working now...no holidays, no more relaxation. I
Ashwatthama, so it’ll resume in a full-fledged way, can’t wait to get back to the grind!” n
soon. I also need to learn archery for the same
project, that should be exciting, too.”
C: And any hidden talents that we may not Hair for Vicky: Team Aalim Hakim; Make-Up for
have seen yet? Vicky: Anil Sable; Model: Priyadarshini Chatterjee;
VK: “I have been told I am a good dancer. I Hair and Make-Up for Priyadarshini: Riviera Lynn at
haven’t been able to explore that in films yet, but Anima Creative Management; Fashion Assistant:
Aprajita Puri; Intern: Riya Bhansali; Location:
when given the opportunity, I would certainly
Dragonfly Experience, Mumbai; Production:
make the most of it.” Cutloose Productions by Leena
C: What are you most proud of?

VK: “The fact that my parents are proud of me. I
don’t know how to put it, but there are moments
that you know are extraordinary, but they become
even more special when you see the happiness in
your parents’ eyes. Like, coincidentally, I won the
National Award on this day last year. I was
only in cosmo
MALAIKA VAZ, 23 RAJAT RAI HANDA, 27

Wildlife Environment
Malaika is a wildlife presenter and filmmaker, whose key It was the “abysmal levels of pollution” in Delhi that pushed
areas of focus include documenting human-wildlife Rajat down this path. “I love the city, it’s my home, but it is
conflict and coexistence, investigating illegal wildlife also plagued with air and water pollution, and other
trafficking, and highlighting the need to protect the environmental problems. At some point, I got tired of
lesser-known and endangered species in India. complaining about it, and decided to try and do something
A penchant for adventure sports and the instead,” he tells Cosmo.
outdoors from an early age meant growing Rajat began by launching an independent youth
up around a lot of wildlife, “from whales campaign against Delhi’s air pollution. “It caught the
and tigers to bears and frogs”. She’s also a attention of many, including an impact investor who asked
windsurfer, a divemaster, and a Cessna me to work with him on clean energy solutions,” he says.
pilot. That, and the fact that the world is in The 27-year-old went to work with an environmental NGO,
the midst of several intractable environmental Chintan, where he was at the forefront of a number of
issues, became Malaika’s reasons to want to campaigns for environmental justice in India. “That taught
pursue a career in wildlife conservation. me a lot about the situation in the country. And that’s when
Agents of
“When you’re so invested in environmental protection, I decided to work on specific solutions.”
looking at the news of the Amazon burning, the oceans Rajat applied for the German Chancellor Fellowship,
acidifying, and species being pushed to the brink of where he is now researching environmental solutions and
extinction can be overwhelming and disheartening,” she advocating for a cleaner world. “My current focus is on the
Change
tells Cosmo.“My generation was born into an ecological intersection of waste, energy and pollution, with a larger
crisis—we’re seeing our climate changing in devastatingly goal to achieve a circular economy, and help mitigate
dramatic ways, as well as the climate change.”
“I’ve been
loss of biodiversity on a daily The biggest challenge, he tells us, is to convince people
basis.” It is important, she about the severity of the situation. “Especially the
able to says, to direct more of our
witness and energies, resources, and Cosmo speaks to some of the country’s
document media space to
rising eco-crusaders, working
illegal marine
understanding the lives of
the animals that have to bear relentlessly to salvage the world from the governments. They aren’t doing
trafficking the brunt of unsustainable various crises we face—environmental,
enough. It’s tough to get them to act,
from India’s
and to implement solutions before
development, and to find
ecological, climatic, and more. Read on it’s too late,” he admits. “The very
oceans. The ways to protect them.
to be inspired...to do your bit. existence of our world, as we know it,
scale is
“Another challenge of
is under threat from environmental
conservation is that the local
terrifying.” communities living in the
By Humra Afroz Khan degradation. And I am happy to
provide scientific evidence to anyone
Photographs: SHUTTURSTOCK.COM
midst of wildlife are often
who doubts this.”
alienated from it. They
Interestingly, Rajat was also involved in the movement to
should be the leaders driving the movement, not just
reduce the Goods and Services Tax (GST) on plastic waste
symbolic participants.” To bring them to the forefront,
in India, in 2017. “We believed that there were a few blind
Malaika works on broadcasting stories of various tribal
spots in the design of the GST policy, which were causing
communities (such as Rabari, Maldhari and Moghiya)—
severe, albeit unintended, consequences for thousands of
their connection with nature, and how they have been
people in the informal recycling sector. That, in turn, was
protecting wildlife despite facing challenging situations
bad for the environment. Thankfully, the government saw
and conflicts.
sense and reduced taxes on recycling from 18 to five
Currently, Malaika is focused on conservation projects
percent,” he beams. “It proved that advocacy and activism
for manta rays and great white sharks, along with
for what’s right, done in the right manner, does work.”
working with the Wildlife Trust of India’s marine division
The more terrifying crisis is far from over, though. And
on a multi-year conservation initiative to research and
each one of us, he stresses, must contribute. “We will have
safeguard these species.
“Over the years, I’ve been able to witness and document “The very existence of our to change...and care enough to act ourselves as well as get
illegal marine trafficking from India’s oceans. And the world, as we know it, is governments and industries to get involved. The bigger
under threat from

players have more responsibility, but each one of us has to
scale is terrifying,” she reveals. “It’s important that we
hold them accountable. We all have to be in it together, and
strike a balance by finding policy and community-level
solutions to protect our marine life, while also
environmental degradation.” only then can we overcome it.”
safeguarding coastal livelihoods.”
only in cosmo
ARJUN P GUPTA, 34
Climate Change lives of thousands, and not just humans.”
For the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and UC Eventually, it was her love for biology that prevailed, but
Berkeley graduate, it all began with his first job, at the challenges keep rearing their heads. The biggest, she
Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory in California. tells us, is the disconnect between the urban and rural
“Some of the world’s best engineers and scientists work India. “What most city folks don’t realise is that people
there, and the experience inspired me to work in the field living next to wildlife anywhere—elephants, tigers,
of energy optimisation,” Arjun explains. “And my research leopards in India, or lions and other species across the
showed me that India could provide electricity 24x7 to all world—have to pay a huge price. The urban and semi-
its citizens, without building a single new expensive, urban populace expects them to bear the cost of coexisting
polluting power plant, if only we used the available whereas many still don’t have access to energy sources to with the wild animals, unaware of the devastating impacts
technologies to stop wasting what we consume.” meet even their basic needs. This is a grave social injustice. that a single crop loss or livestock predation incident can
Eight years later, Arjun returned to India, and, in the By driving large and sustainable energy productivity “The field is have on the whole family in such a set-up,” she elaborates.
course of his new job, saw the opportunity to create a new improvements in big businesses, we make more energy extremely “If a herd of elephants comes by, they can wipe out an
entire season’s crops, which means the family has no
industry altogether: “One that focuses on driving energy
productivity improvements across all types of businesses—
resources available for the less fortunate and, in the
process, also improve the international competitiveness of
demanding, means to survive for the rest of the year. Similarly,
and does so profitably, from Day One.” Subsequently, he these businesses,” he explains. and can be livestock is often a money bank for the poor. The loss of a
founded Smart Joules, with the mission to eliminate energy “The UN Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change volatile. Your cow or a goat can have drastic impacts on their financial
waste through innovations in continuous energy reports that the planet will reach the crucial threshold of work impacts stability, and on their ability to recover from the shock.”
Kriti says that one of their programmes, Wild Seve, has
optimisation, and the vision to efficiently manage the 1.5 degree Celsius above pre-industrial levels by 2030,
precipitating the risk of extreme drought, wildfires, floods,
the lives of
thousands.”
largest number of joules in India by 2025. They are now a
team of more than 85 young professionals and, Arjun says, and food shortages for millions of people. As Greta
the team has saved more than 24 million kWh-equivalent Thunberg pointed out: ‘Entire ecosystems are collapsing’
of energy across some of the largest hospital chains in and ‘we are at the beginning of a mass extinction’.”
India. All in a span of just four years. But more than any technology or policy breakthroughs,
Other than climate change, his company also tackles Arjun says, it is a “change in the mindset and habits of
social injustice and international competitiveness. “We are common folk” that will really help transition the world to
quickly blowing through our carbon budget, and the largest greater levels of sustainability.
contributor to global greenhouse gas emissions is
energy. The less energy we use, the fewer fossil
fuels we need to burn. In India, businesses that
have deep pockets routinely waste “In India,
30 percent of the energy they consume, businesses
that have
deep
pockets
routinely KRITHI KARANTH, 41 recorded several cases of repeated losses—some families
waste
around Bandipur and Nagarahole forests in Karnataka,
Wildlife for example, have endured over 15,000 human-wildlife
30 percent Born to scientist parents—Krithi’s mother was a speech conflict incidents in a span of four years. “It’s critical to
of the pathologist, and father, a wildlife biologist and build resilience in communities, that would otherwise
energy they conservationist. She didn’t have to look very
far for inspiration. “Their passion for their
be pushed further into poverty traps. The world is
consume.”
at an inevitable conservation crossroads at the
respective fields—to do research and then moment. In some places, we’ve recovered
apply it towards changing the society and the wildlife populations and held on to them
environment—deeply motivated me,” she despite enormous challenges; in others, we’ve
tells Cosmo. drastically lost species and habitats due to
Photographs (Krithi) CWS/IORAPRO
By the time she was two, Krithi had already developmental pressures. Krithi is concerned
visited several National Parks. Over the years, that in our lifetimes, we may see wildlife
though, doubts crept into the mind of this disappear on an unprecedented scale. “We need far
Conservation Scientist. “Because, while I had an insight greater public support for conservation, be it through
into wildlife, I also understood the onerous challenges volunteering, research, or fundraising. There are many
that existed in conservation. The field is extremely ways to get involved and do your bit—the key is to do
demanding, and can be volatile. Your work impacts the something, anything.”
000 COSMOPOLITAN
30 COSMOPOLITANJUNE 2019
DECEMBER 2020 FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN DECEMBER 2020 COSMOPOLITAN 91
only in cosmo
NATASHA RYNJAH, 34 VIHAAN AGARWAL, 16,
Climate Change and AND NAV AGARWAL, 13
Ecology Climate Change
Natasha grew up with a keen interest in the The brothers were always “nature buffs”, but their formal induction in the
environment and all the problems that plagued world of environment conservation occurred with the Ghazipur landfill fire
it—her father was an officer in the Forest in Delhi in 2017. “The news coverage showed how toxic fumes were
Department, who later started his own entering the atmosphere, and it got us thinking about how this waste-
environmental consultancy firm. “Initially, I menace could be altered, and what we could do to help,” Vihaan tells
decided to take a different path, and became an Cosmo. Vihaan was, simultaneously, also fighting a personal battle against
engineer in biotechnology. But soon, I realised it the pollution: “I had begun wheezing, and would need to nebulise myself
wasn’t what I wanted to do for the rest of my life.” and rest at home often. It would trouble me, increasingly, every time the
So, she decided to go back to her first love, and season changed.”
start from scratch. “I joined an organisation as an Thus began the brothers’ journey, and the first step to saving
intern in environmental planning. It taught me a the environment was to understand how all the waste—
lot—what it takes to plan a city, how important it is comprising wet, dry and hazardous material—travelled from
to ensure that biodiversity is conserved during homes to the landfills. “We discovered that Delhi generated
projects etc. I also realised that I needed to about 12,500 tonne of
upgrade my skills, so I moved to Singapore for a
Masters degree in Environmental Management.”
waste, out of which, 5,500
tonne reached the landfills. A “We started
Natasha currently works as a Deal Share huge part of it could have been with our own
Manager with Asian Venture Philanthropy avoided or utilised, if it was home, and in
Network (AVPN)—an ecosystem builder with the segregated, recycled, and composted less than two
core objective of moving capital towards social
impact. “I work with investors who seek to
responsibly. So we decided to start with
our own home, and in less than two months,
make a strong social impact. One of the months, converted it into a zero-waste converted it into
key areas our members are focused on is house.” They then began a similar a zero-waste
the climate crisis in Asia. Right now, only
2 percent of all philanthropic money,
streamlining process in the
neighbourhood, even offering a
house.”
“Right now, only 2 globally, goes into climate action, so pick-up service for dry waste. “We
percent of all philanthropic there’s a huge potential for resource started out with 15 homes in 2018. Today, we’re working on finding
money globally goes into

providers to deploy their capital strategically better waste-management solutions for 700 households, and two
and systemically in this area.” Natasha helps schools, across the city,” informs Vihaan.
climate action.” these members, who are passionate about certain It was towards this end, as well as to combat other
causes, identify the right Social Purpose environmental issues, that the duo launched One Step Greener
Organisations (SPO) to support. (OSG)—an NGO focused on waste management, recycling, and
Currently, the team is focused on building a tree plantation—in 2018. “Our aim is to minimise contributors to
community around ‘disaster preparedness’. “The air pollution, reduce toxic leachate that enters groundwater, and
over-consumption of natural resources results in increase the level of the groundwater table.” OSG also provides
environmental degradation, that threatens the training and workshops, enlisting easy-to-use toolkit of charts, bags,
mitigative properties of the ecosystem. And this stickers etc, in English and Hindi, made from recycled materials. They’ve
leads to an increased vulnerability of communities also established a recycling drop-off centre, where people can deposit their
to natural disasters,” Natasha explains. “Through dry waste, among other initiatives. Additionally, the boys conduct regular
our work, we can foster partnerships, maximise clean-up and tree-plantation drives, such as the ‘Urban Afforestation’
the potential of cross-sector collaboration, and also initiative in a park in Vasant Vihar, where they planted 250 native
identify innovative solutions.” indigenous trees. Additionally, they’ve recycled over 65,000 kilos of waste
“According to the World Economic Forum so far—saving an equivalent of 7000lbs of carbon from entering the
Global Threats Report 2019, the environmental atmosphere—among other equally impressive feats.
threats perceived to have the biggest impacts are “Sometimes, people don’t take us seriously due to our age. They think
extreme weather events and natural disasters, as we may not know enough. Also, many behave like all this doesn’t affect
well as failure of climate change mitigation and them so they couldn’t be bothered. In some houses, the staff gives us a
adaptation,” she informs us. “It’s time we took a hard time, as they’d rather make money selling the waste to kabaddiwalas.”
step in the right direction. Make the right choices, But the young ones are not giving up. The team—along with their
be aware of the gravity of the situation, have volunteers—are already recipients of several awards worldwide, and hope
conversations, and share knowledge.” to keep championing the cause...till change is evident. n
love & lust
What Does It
Mean to Be
Panromantic?
Photographs: GETTYIMAGES.COM
For starters, it’s not the same thing as pansexual.

By Carina Hsieh
love & lust
S Rekindle your romance

imilarly to pansexual and intimacy educator and Institute for Sexuality and which refers to someone
people, coach. “Panromantics have a Gender Diversity in who needs to have an
panromantic- large palette of romantic Michigan. Therefore, a emotional connection in
identified people interests and can fluidly panromantic person has the order to feel physically
can move fluidly among
binary and non-binary
partners when it comes to
emotional (panromantic) or
move among binary and non-
binary romantic partners,”
she adds.
capacity to experience desire
for intimacy and emotional
relationships irrespective of
gender identity, adds Justin.
and sexually attracted to
someone, Xanet says.
To be panromantic
demisexual, you would be
in the Maldives
physical (pansexual)
relationships. And while the
Is Panromantic It’s important to remember
that being panromantic does
open to having a romantic
or emotional relationship
two terms share the prefix Different Than not necessarily mean that a with someone of any
‘pan,’ they are not the same
thing. If it’s confusing, don’t
Pansexual? person experiences desire in
the same way towards
gender identity, and
believe that you need that
worry, we have got you You bet. “Pansexual people persons of all genders, and it deep romantic, emotional
connection in order to feel
sexually attracted to them.
“The panromantic part
of that definition is that
this emotional connection
leading to sexual attraction
can happen with anyone,”
Xanet explains.
Note though, that
panromantic demisexual
does not automatically
equal pansexual. You
could, for example, as
Justin explains, have a
person who identifies
as panromantic, demi-
homosexual, meaning
they experience romantic
attraction irrespective
of gender, but they
only experience sexual
attraction toward a person
of the same gender with
whom they have formed
an emotional connection.
covered! Read on below for are more interested in the does not mean that a
more commonly asked
questions about what being
sexual connection but not
necessarily an emotional
person experiences sexual
attraction irrespective of
Can an
panromantic means... connection,” Xanet explains. gender. That’s why there’s the Asexual
Panromantics, on the other distinction between
Person Be
What Does It hand, care much more about
the level of intimacy they
panromantic and pansexual.
Panromantic?
Mean to Be have with a partner.
What Does It Yes! “An asexual person
Panromantic? “Sexual attraction refers to
sexual desire towards a Mean to Be
can be panromantic,
experiencing emotional
Someone who identifies as
panromantic is “romantically
person, whereas romantic
attraction refers to desire for
‘Panromantic connection and intimacy
without a sexual
attracted to people of all intimate and emotional Demisexual’? relationship,” says
Photo: Conrad
genders (same sex, different relationships,” adds Justin A term that often comes Xanet. This can also be
sex, trans, etc),” explains Drwencke, Executive up in association with viewed as a deep
Xanet Pailet, US-based sex Director of the Midwest panromantics is demisexual, friendship, she adds. n
* Fly from India to Maldives via
96 COSMOPOLITAN DECEMBER 2020 FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN Air India, Indigo, Go Air and Maldivian FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN DECEMBER 2020 COSMOPOLITAN 000
love & lust
Hot Take: “‘ S
o what should we do now?’ Rohan* asked as we IT’S RESPECTFUL OF YOUR OWN TIME AS WELL
finished our roasted butternut squash ravioli on AS YOUR DATE’S.
our first date. I so wanted to answer his
question honestly. I wanted to tell him that People are busy! Dating can be a full-time job if you’re
First Dates Should

there would be no more ‘we’ tonight, because all ‘I’ single enough. Add that to your (hopefully) already full-time
wanted to do was go home and finish binge-watching job, and time becomes money, ya’ll. Trust me: 57 minutes is
Euphoria. the perfect amount of time someone can comfortably chat
The good news: that was the old me. I was newly about themselves, their passions, goals, and type of dog they
single and trying my best to ‘get back out there’ want to adopt (because obviously you want to hear about
Only Last 57 Minutes

despite hating every second of small talk, pleasantries, Good Bois only) without checking their phone or wanting to
and overly blah happy hour chardonnays. Every night, get the eff outta there.
I’d find myself on another first date. It got to the
point where I was barely seeing my friends—mainly
because I was hungover from the second, third, or IT SETS UP THE PERFECT SECOND DATE.
Yes, we are literally asking you to set your phone’s timer. Here’s why... fourth round of drinks I didn’t want or need the night
before. And the night before that. If you happen to find yourself on one of those magical first
By Carina Hsieh But then I discovered something so, so crucial: I dates where time stands still, and 57 minutes is simply not
was doing first dates entirely wrong. They were way, enough time to get to know this stranger who you’re pretty
way, wayyy too long. In reality, first dates should never convinced is your soulmate, good for you. You can wait
be longer than an hour. More specifically, they should another few days before seeing them again. It’s a total power
only be 57 minutes long, on the f*cking dot. move. It also keeps you from going too deep, and ensures you
57 minutes is the perfect amount of time to grab don’t montage what your wedding and kids will look like right
one round of drinks, sip down one coffee, and figure then and there. (Hi, its me!)
out if your dating app match has any sisters or not.
This is about the same length of a workout class, a
boring work meeting, or how long you spend talking ANYTHING LONGER THAN 57 MINUTES
to your mom on the phone. IS TOO MUCH TOO SOON!
Does your Hinge match really deserve a longer
amount of your time than your mom does? (The First dates at a Michelin-star restaurant, with hours of
answer is no—she birthed you!) So allow me to flowing conversation, and deep eye contact sound like the
explain my reasoning: very reasons why people avoid first dates all together. These
types of dates could ‘bachlight’ a single person (read:
gaslight, but instead of being manipulated by psychological
FIRST DATES—ESPECIALLY THE ONES THAT COME means, you’re swayed by a date that’s so decadent, fancy,
FROM THE SWIPE OF A FINGER—SHOULD ONLY BE and extravagant, even Bachelor producers would call it ‘over
ABOUT GAUGING INTEREST AND ATTRACTION. the top’.)
Personally, I followed my 57-minute-first-date rule for
That’s it. And, according to science, you can tell if you an entire summer. A lot of guys respected it. I found it
find someone attractive in three seconds. You don’t need not only efficient, but great parameters for meeting new
to spend your whole evening with someone you just met people. I didn’t dread going on first dates anymore; I had
when you can assess in three (three!) seconds whether a schedule again, which was weirdly freeing.
or not you’re physically attracted to them—and you def Then, one September night, I met a Bumble date at my
don’t need any liquid poison convincing you, either. favorite bar. I was so confident this date wouldn’t work
out due to his creepy cubicle selfie and love for EDM that
I even made plans to hang out with my bestie afterward.
THE 57-MINUTE RULE ALLOWS YOU TO HAVE AN EASY Turns out, it was one of those magical dates where time
WAY OUT IF YOU ARE NOT FEELING THINGS. stood still—and we’re still dating today. And yes, I did see
my friend right after those 57 minutes were up.
Photograph: SHUTTURSTOCK.COM
*NAME HAS BEEN CHANGED

Sure, it’s basically one hour of your life wasted, but at So, if actually leaving your apartment and going on
least it’s not three hours plus an annoying ride back first dates sounds like your nightmare (been there), try
home, ya know? Tell your date your ‘first date rule’ the 57-minute date. Worst-case scenario, you’ll lose 57
ahead of time, and when time’s up, you’ll have given minutes of your day. Best case, you meet someone worth
yourself the opportunity to exit the date sans any deleting your apps for and *fingers crossed,* you’ll never
awkwardness, hard feelings, or dodging of a have to go on a first date again. Get those timers set,
goodnight kiss. ya’ll...you’ve got less than an hour.” n
you, you, you
(L-R) Suki Waterhouse,
Kendall Jenner, Cara
Delevingne, Hailey Baldwin
T
Bieber, and Joan Smalls
“ he ongoing coronavirus
pandemic has robbed us of
almost everything we held
seasoning of contact, stirring, and
a watchful eye to avoid unwanted
stickiness. Some—like those with even, in more dire cases, the
sacred. For months, life colleagues and friendly faces in passing away of family members.
has resembled a Snakes and Ladders your yoga class—require a bit For others, it has been a faint
board, as numbers of COVID-19 “The bedrock to more elbow grease. Others, like smear on the social calendar,
cases, lockdown restrictions, and any friendship is those from school and university, counterbalanced with an uptake in
consistency,
our mental health situations have need nothing more than a link to a H&M and Zara home deliveries,
fluctuated. By now, we have come to YouTube video of dancing cats to and Netflix viewings. Such
accept that social plans and monetary communication, be revitalised. disparate experiences produce a
savings will fall by the wayside for the
foreseeable future. What we hadn’t
and circumstance.” So it is no wonder why, at the
beginning of the pandemic, many
tangible strain between friends.
The tension results in what The
envisaged, however, was that our of us enthusiastically turned to Cut recently referred to as
friendships would suffer as a result of virtual quizzes and HouseParties ‘friendship paranoia’. As doubt
the health crisis. in an attempt to fill the void of and anxiety spreads across the
I have always counted myself physical interactions. For weeks, world, it’s easy to see how a friend’s
fortunate to have we shared videos of each other hesitation to meet up in person,
Are You
an abundance of banging pots in the streets to call, or immediately reply to a
friends. They’re my support doctors and healthcare message on WhatsApp could
soundboards after professionals braving the convince you that they’re annoyed
a challenging day at pandemic, and enjoyed countless at you. A lack of communication
Suffering from
work. Their voices FaceTime calls with friends in may even call into question the
over the phone are different times zones. Technology value and purpose of a friendship
the breadcrumbs I became our lifeline. altogether, dissolving some sooner
follow as I trudge to But after Zoom backgrounds lost than expected. Addressing such
Friendship Fade?
work in the morning, appeal and broadband connections concerns might have been healthy
and the companions dwindled, we soon reverted to pre-pandemic, but the thought
that comfort me as keeping in touch by way of DMing of airing these frictions over a
I drive home alone across the occasional meme. voice-note adds another veneer
at night. It’s thanks As the crisis continues to scar of anxiety to our already tested
to them that my iPhone calendar
has long resembled a pin cushion,
The pandemic has taken a toll on our most- our mental health, simple tasks like
getting out of bed in the morning
mindsets. Never before have I felt
more insecure about the status and
populated with dots representing trusted support system. By Katie O’Malley or brushing our teeth require longevity of my most cherished
months of drink dates, dinners, and an added boost of brain power. friendships.
weekends away. Finding reserves of energy to In addition to the metaphorical
(L-R) Kendall
According to The Friendship Jenner, Bella zealously interact with friends has distancing of friends, it doesn’t
Report, commissioned in partnership Hadid, Kylie fallen down the priorities list. help that others are physically
with Protein Agency—which polled Jenner, Hailey More than ever before, my moving further away. As many
Baldwin Bieber,
10,000 nationally representative and Gigi Hadid friendships are suffering a cavity of us continue to work from
people between ages 13 to 75 in of silence, which builds daily home, several of my friends have
India, Australia, France, Germany, due to the lack of new or shared terminated their rental contracts
Malaysia, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, experiences. The grievances and on flats and moved home to save
the UK, and the US—Indians personal victories that we would money. Others are fast-tracking
have six best friends on an average. (Left) Hailey Baldwin have commiserated and celebrated their life plans with the desire to
Unfortunately, this isn’t the case for Bieber and Kendall over a bottle of wine, now pass start families.
everyone. A YouGov poll last year Jenner with a friend unanointed. I always knew there would come
found that a quarter of people in Adding to this ‘friendship fade’ a time when people’s priorities
Great Britain have no-one they can is the vastly different experiences would shift and some friendships
call a ‘best friend’, and nearly one in that my most cherished friendships are of the pandemic. While for would fray at the seams, but the
eight admit to having no friends at beginning to fade away. some, it has resulted in job loss, pandemic has made it all happen
all (this is up from one in 10 just five Whether we like to admit it or not, the evaporating wedding plans and too soon. When it comes to sharing
years ago). bedrock of any friendship is consistency, news—both good and bad—I used
But as the pandemic rages on and communication, and circumstance. to struggle to know which friend to
my interactions with friends become Friendships are like a simmering pot of call first. Now, I don’t know who to
ever more virtual, I have noticed buttery risotto; they require a gradual call on at all.” n
only in cosmo
The “I must have been about 10-years-old

when I discovered YouTube, and was
Stars of
instantly drawn to its potential. By
the time I was 13, I had decided to
pursue a career on YouTube—it was
a very intuitive calling for me. The
first video I ever uploaded was of me
playing Outlast, a first-person survival
horror video game. It got just one
YouTube
Like in a month...which was by me...
from a friend’s phone!
The strangest thing is that I have
been on YouTube for years now
but I am still clueless about how it
works...a lot of it is still Greek to me!
Honestly, I think the best content
comes out in the worst of times. I try
to create something that is genuinely
amusing or cringe-worthy. Some
27.8M
content—like, say, a consecutive,
The platform launched in India in 2008, and has, since, action-reaction video—takes me two
AJEY NAG
led to the emergence of a new crop of mega celebrities. weeks to create, while some others—
like a rant or a current topic-related
AR
These are the people who keep glued to your screens, with video—can take more than a month.
addictively-entertaining content. This month, at Cosmo, we I believe what you create should
AKA
come straight from the heart; it
celebrate these superstars—from vloggers and viners, to should scream passion, and also be
CARRY MIN
gamers, comedians and more. Read on as some of India’s relatable. And it is best to ignore the
hate, and focus only on the love that
most influential YouTubers get talking about their journeys,
ATI
comes. It is important to learn to
what the job really entails, and why they love what they do! accept that everyone has an opinion,
By Priyanka Yadav; and you can’t tick all the boxes.”
Interviews: Humra Afroz Khan
only in cosmo
“What you see in my videos is pretty much how I am in
“I remember my first Vine got 9 Likes; and the first comment said, ‘Not funny!’. But I didn’t give up...I always reality; it is a hilarious take on my own life. I have always
knew I wanted to become an actor. All of this comedy and Vine-making began as just an experiment. But soon, wanted to create content that I would enjoy working on,
people were stealing my videos and posting them on YouTube. And once I realised that I could even earn from and, more importantly, would enjoy watching. So it is clean
them (which, BTW, took me three years to figure out!), I just hopped on the wagon and became a YouTuber. and family-friendly, with very real situations and a dash of
People think YouTubers earn in crores each month, calculating and multiplying Views with earnings. I find my unique twists.
that hilarious, because the CPM [cost per 1,000 impressions] in India is very low...and what we really earn I used to follow some international content creators,
is peanuts. As for finding success here, there’s no definite formula. But the one thing that’s extremely crucial and was fascinated by how someone sitting across the
is to be as relevant as possible. You don’t need fancy cameras or sets, you just need to ensure people feel globe could entertain people using the World Wide Web.
connected to you. Not too many people know this, but I am not a big talker in real life... I am super zoned-out But I didn’t really see it as a profession. In fact, I still
90 percent of the time, thinking about what to create next!” don’t. My first-ever video for my channel was aptly named
Not-So-Funny. I don’t think even I Liked that video! But now,
I have a ball shooting for all of them...like the one with
Rajkummar Rao, Boman [Irani] sir, even with the IPL team,
Mumbai Indians.
The funnest part of being a YouTuber is that you observe
M TIA
reality better than others, and your brain automatically
3
1 O starts churning out a ‘narrative’ as life happens. To anyone
4. J L looking to get into this field, I’d say: do what you love
U N A ICK doing, have fun doing it...and keep at it.”
K AK N
NI
YOU
BE
23M
ASHISH CHANCHLANI
AKA
ASHISH CHANCHLANI
VINES
only in cosmo
“When I started out, there were less than 20 YouTubers in the entire country! It used to be
more of a passion than a business, since brand collaborations came in much later. I enjoy the
fact that you can create content by yourself and reach millions of people across the globe.
The content I put out is a reflection of me and all that’s going on in my life at that point. So
when I am travelling, there are vlogs; when I shop, I do hauls; and these days, it is mostly
about my life through the pandemic and the lockdown.
I spend about six to seven hours a day (at least!) online—which is a lot more than I plan
to. Over the last few years, I have stopped watching other content creators, as I feel you
are bound to get inspired by them and start creating similar content. To all the aspiring
YouTubers, my top tips are: always shoot in good, natural light; be your real self; and make
content about things that you are passionate about, not necessarily what’s trending.
If someone’s trying to be nasty to me, I usually tell them that it’s not nice to be rude. And
when all else fails, I take a break and just go offline. The most amusing comment I have ever
received was someone telling me how it is so cool that I have an Adam’s apple!”
. 8 M M
9
1 N B A
V A
H U KA ES.
B A IN
I V
B K
B
“The content I create revolves around the kind of people we see around us—it is about a middle-
class family and the problems they face every day. I play 20 characters—each with their own quirks,
mannerisms, peculiarities, and, of course, followers. My audience loves the observational humour I
use.
317K
It all began when I came across a bizzare news report on TV. There were floods in some parts of
India, and, among other tragic cases, a lady had lost her son. This one reporter covering the story
asked her, ‘You have lost your son, how do you feel?’. It was shocking! I picked up that footage and
SCHEREZADE
made a funny video around it. That was also the first video I ever uploaded. Gradually, it caught
people’s attention and went viral, and that gave me the confidence to create more content.
Interestingly, before YouTube, music was my main focus. I used to perform at restaurants and even
went for the auditions for Indian Idol once (but came back after standing in the queue forever)!
SHROFF
With BB Ki Vines, I take care of the entire creative process—scripting, editing, even marketing. And
even now, I only use my phone to shoot, not a DSLR camera. And no tripod, so I often end up holding
my phone in my hand for hours! I love what I do—it was my dream to be an entertainer. But I am also
aware that no matter how good a video you upload, there will always be that one troll, waiting to roast
you. You just have to ensure you are satisfied with the content you make, nothing else matters.”
only in cosmo
3
NIKH .55M
1.35M IL SH
ARM
AKA A
MOHAMMED MUM
BIKER
SALIM KHAN NIKH
IL
AKA
MSK
“Back in 2015, I was randomly watching a couple of videos on how to
become a YouTuber and make money via the medium, and I decided to
give it a shot. My first video was rather random—it was a short ride to
Malshej Ghat, where I rode pillion.
Flying Over New York is one of my favourite works so far—I had
“You’d be surprised to know that I am not very social-media savvy! In fact, back when there was Orkut, I’d tell my friends to
worked really hard on it, and it turned out to be quite the masterpiece
tag me in pictures, because I never uploaded any myself. And now, ironically, my life revolves around social media. Whatever
vlog, I think! I like to show the audience the world through my eyes...my
I do in my life—my travels, treks, et al—becomes the content for my YouTube channel. I was an actor before I became a
points of view, my thoughts, my opinions on certain issues. And when I
YouTuber—I have been a part of commercial ads and photoshoots. During this time, we formed a movie production team,
travel, I want them to travel with me, virtually. An insider’s tip I’d like to
and our short movie even won the ‘Best Student Film’ award at the Nashik Film Festival in 2016. After that, everyone moved
give is that one should try to focus more on the audio than the video.
on to better opportunities, and I was left with all the equipment! That’s when I learned about vlogging and YouTube, and
And make sure you choose a good location.
decided to try it, to work on my communication and film-making skills. After about a year, people began noticing my content,
You know, once someone commented on my video that I had ‘passed
and started commenting on and Liking it. And eventually, brands started approaching me for collaborations.
away during my ride to Leh and Manali’. That was one of the weirdest
YouTubing is fun. But a lot of effort goes into each video...for me, editing videos is the toughest part. There’s no sure-shot
things ever! As for people being toxic, well, people forget as quickly as
way to create fabulous content. Sometimes, I work very hard on a video, but my viewers don’t like it. It helps to be genuine
they troll. So I just laugh about it and move on.”
and not fake anything. And also to be relatable, and give the audience a reason to return to your channel.”
only in cosmo
“I was in Turkey for an internship a while ago, and knew that I had return with a video of my experience. So,
I begged a friend (with questionable photography skills) to help me shoot. We shot in a park, and I changed
outfits behind a tree! That video got a 1,000 views in a week, and my channel had 23 subscribers.
Before that, I had auditioned for numerous for acting and modelling jobs to earn some pocket money—but
always got rejected. I was really inspired by American vlogger Bethany Mota—and how YouTube allows you
to showcase all your talents on one platform. So, I decided to start my own channel. This way, no-one could
reject me, and I could put out the kind of content I wanted to. I love that there are no approvals to take...I can
think of an idea today, and execute and upload it tomorrow!
Now, I create fashion and lifestyle content, and also dabble in my passion, music. And the viewers’ support
makes all of this even more worthwhile. Yes there are haters, too, and they do affect you. The comments
people leave can sometimes affect your mental state.
Out of all my work, my first original song, Aisi Hu, will always be most special. And, of course, being a part
of Creators For Change with Michelle Obama to support for girls’ education, was a huge opportunity for me. It
is something I strongly believe in...to empower Indian girls and encourage them to be brave and courageous.”
20.4M
GAURAV
CHAUDHARY
AKA
TECHNICAL GURUJI
SEJ 1.3M
AL
KUM
A
“People think I am just a YouTuber, but in reality, this is just a hobby for me! I run a
R full-fledged business, and have multiple things going on on the side. And I am also
(still) involved in Nanoscience research.
The idea behind Technical Guruji was to make tech content accessible to the
masses in India, especially people who aren’t well-versed in English. We cover it all,
from gadget-unboxing to explaining tech jargons.
For me, the best part about being a tech YouTuber is that I get early access to
gadgets. Let’s say a phone is about to launch in the market...I get to check it out
before it hits shelves. Then, there is the travelling and special privileges... But most
of all, I love meeting my viewers. I have been creating videos for the last five years
now—there hasn’t been a single day when I haven’t posted something, even if I am
on a long-haul flight, or it is a festival. Maintaining consistency can sometimes be a
challenge... So it may seem simple, but it needs a lot of commitment. But the love
of the viewers makes it all worth it!”
FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN DECEMBER 2020 COSMOPOLITAN 111
only in cosmo
“You know, I had thought, that by now, people would start recognising me on the streets. But this pandemic
is ensuring it won’t happen anytime soon [laughs]! My brother is also a YouTuber, so I knew I could make
a career out of it. But it wasn’t my primary platform—I first started uploading videos on Instagram and
Facebook. In 2019, one of those videos went viral, and people started posting it to YouTube, and that’s when
I knew it was time to become a YouTuber.
My first video was of a fictional character, Pinky Dogra, that I had created in under two minutes. Pinky—
me, with a Snapchat filter on my face—used to rant about everything. I don’t remember how many Likes or
comments it got, but I remember it made me very happy...it helped me do what I always wanted to.
I am quite a chill person in real life, so online toxicity doesn’t bother me much. I just want to put a smile on
people’s face with my content. And if they get to learn something in the process, it is a bonus. But content
creation is not easy. It takes a lot of effort—from writing a good script to creating interesting characters,
performing them well, then editing it all. But in the end, like everyone will tell you, content is all that matters.”
6M
PRAJAKTA KOLI
AKA
MOSTLY SANE
372K
“I make sure I create content that you can watch with your entire family. And I like my videos to be as relatable as
possible. I love all that I create, but there are a few videos that are extra special—like No Offence [for Creators For
Change, a global movement spotlighting critical issues], Khayali Pulao, Shameless, and Types of People In A College
SALONI GAUR,
AKA
Canteen, among others.
YouTube wasn’t something that I planned to get into...it just happened to me, as my ‘dream job’ wasn’t exactly panning
out the way I had wished! I happened to meet Sudeep [Lahiri] from One Digital Entertainment, who suggested I start a
SALONAYYY
channel. After a lot of contemplation, I decided to give it a try. Initially, I juggled my regular job and YouTube for about a
month; but when I saw how much fun I was having on YouTube, I quit my job to focus completely on this. It was definitely
the best decision I have ever made.
Often, people think that being a YouTuber is easy, but, in reality, it requires a lot of hard work and time. The most
important thing is to be consistent with your content—remember, content is king! And, honestly, now is the best time to
start...don’t wait for the ‘right’ time, just go for it.”
only in cosmo
“I grew up watching a lot of international YouTubers—especially American and European—and learnt a lot from their
perspectives. I always thought that India needed someone to talk to us in our language, too—and I don’t mean just
speaking in Hindi or a regional language, but also covering our food, culture, fashion, etc. That’s when I decided to
become a YouTuber.
The content I create, typically, is based around self-improvement. It can be anything—fitness, fashion, personal
grooming, finance, and business—that will help enhance your life-experience. My motivational videos are often very
well-received and I really enjoy making them. I also do this thing where I break down people’s mindsets—we created
one on Virat Kohli, and it remains one of our most successful videos. I wrote the script during a somewhat difficult
time, so in a way, it motivated me...which is also why it is so special.
I receive a lot of amusing comments—I have even been sent a bunch of marriage proposals from men describing
their sisters. And some of these people can be quite pushy! As for the haters, once you realise that most of them are
just looking for attention, or projecting their own issues onto you, you learn to not let it affect you. There are some
genuine critiques, too, whom I learn from, but otherwise, ignorance is bliss.
Being a YouTuber, you have to constantly think of new ideas. That’s the best and also the worst part about this
profession—you don’t get any breaks. And if you want to expand, you need to have a team, which brings its own
pressures...and also means getting out of your comfort zone to sustain yourself.”
564K
TANYA
KHANIJO 3.09M
W RANVEER
ALLAHBADIA
AKA
BEER BICEPS
“The best part about being a YouTuber, for me, is that you can create content based on anything you are
passionate about. For example, I recently took up gardening, and have launched a new channel entirely
dedicated to it. You have complete creative freedom, and being your own boss is also a lot of fun! But, unlike
a nine-to-five job—where one can switch off after those hours—the work of a digital creator never stops.
There’s always something or the other playing on your mind, and life almost begins to revolve around it. You
might be checking how a videos is performing, reinventing yourself, looking to create meaningful content, or
gauging the reception of your audience...
My videos seek to provide a virtual experience of travelling to offbeat destinations that viewers will feel
inspired to undertake, too. And, for this reason, I sometimes like to call my content ‘docu-vlogs’—emotive
documentaries, complete with music, banter, and information. I get a lot of comments asking who sponsors
my trips, whether my father is wealthy, or if my boyfriend is funding my travels, etc. I find it really weird that
people just can’t believe that you can be a financially independent individual in the 21st century.”
only in cosmo
“I have always been an introvert, and have had a tough time making friends. Growing up, I used to
watch a lot of gaming streams. I loved how those streamers built a community of like-minded people,
and had fun playing together. So I started streaming, as a hobby, to make friends...but soon, I was
earning enough to sustain myself! The first video I put up Youtube was a livestream of the game,
PUBG PC. I had about 50 people tuning in, and it got some 300 Likes—which was amazing!
Now, I spend pretty much all my waking hours on the Internet...apart from a few hours that I spend
with my dog. Even when I am not streaming, I am playing games online—to chill with friends.
I get a tonne of odd comments daily, but I think the one that takes the prize is, ‘Would you make your
dog marry mine?’. Then there are people who try to pull you down. As a female gamer, I face a lot
of trolls who hate on me because of my gender. It does affect my mental health at times. The best
solution, as everyone says, is to ignore them. But sometimes, it just doesn’t work. So I take the day
off from social media to spend time with loved ones and relax. It helps get my mind off the toxicity.”
210K
NISHIT SHARMA
AKA
HOPPING BUG
254K
“My channel was born because of my passion, with the aim of sharing my travel experiences through
cinematic visuals and storytelling. Back when I had a ‘desk job’, I used to watch a lot of videos on YouTube,
specifically by this creator, Casey Neistat. He is my inspiration, and his videos have always motivated
SHAGUFTA
me to do something similar. When I first started, money wasn’t on my mind. After I hit 3K followers, a
brand reached out to me and offered to sponsor my trip, in return for some genuine feedback about my
IQBAL
experience. After that, I got to work with A R Rahman for a project for Amazon Prime, and, gradually, more
brands started approaching me, even offering money for collaborations. But I have always prioritised ethics
AKA
over money, which is why I still work as a digital marketeer.
People usually get to see the best 10 minutes of hours-long footage, but there is so much work that goes
into creating those beautiful experiences! I am especially proud of my Indonesia web-series. I had taken
care of every minute detail in it, including the sound design and storyboard, investing about four months
XYAA
just to edit it! It had everything you’d expect to see in a high-production web-series created by a professional
production house.”
FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN DECEMBER 2020 COSMOPOLITAN 117
quiz
Does Your Ex Still Think

About You? FASHION & BEAUTY ALL THE INSPIRATION YOU NEED
It’s all in the accidental Story views.
E R
SW K
N
E
A
Y
D I F Y O U G O T M O S T LY A s :
F I N
O U T
Your ex definitely thinks
about you a lot, but tries
to play it cool by never
actually responding to
L
any of your 12 Insta
ook, even if you ro ugh my Sto Stories they just
m e th ri es
hate admitting ‘ I ’m t h i n k
ing on
!’ watched. They probably
of
ghosted on you back
bs
h
it, sometimes
ta
then, and are a literal
er
p
,b
you just want to
‘ I k n o w y o u ke e
ghost in your life now,
ut
know if your ex still thinks

Iw
lurking in your Snapchat

an
about you sometimes. This and maybe occasionally

na
la
yi
p
obviously isn’t the case if tc

oo l. sending you a random
’
you are still friends or talk text when they are drunk
or bored. So yes, they
regularly—this is figuring maybe want you back,
out if they ever miss you but if they can’t make the
or reminisce about your effort to engage you, are
time together when you they even worth your
have had, shall we say, a mental energy? Nope!
less-than-stellar break-up.
Here is how to know
I F Y O U G O T M O S T LY B s :
for sure:
Your ex still thinks about
1. Have they liked any of you from time to time,
your photos or statuses but has taken mature
since you broke up? steps to distance
themselves from you as
a. Occasionally, though it is
well. They may think
always pretty random. about the relationship
b. Never. you had in a more
reflective way, or
2. Do they ever watch your A still from The occasionally be
Insta stories? Break-Up reminded of you by a
a. OMG. Like all of them, but restaurant or TV show
they never talk to me. What is you both loved, but
up with that? b. They were 100% more a. No. I treat browsing their they’re not deliberately
upset than I was. Insta like I am robbing a laser- trying to keep tabs on
b. Nope, I think they muted filled museum exhibit. your life anymore. In
me. 5. Did they ever apologise fact, they may have
for the break-up? b. Maybe once or twice, blocked or muted you to
3. Are they dating accidentally.
a. Yeah, a half-*ssed apology, keep themselves from
someone new? doing just that. Which is
three months later.
a. Not that I know of. good! Everyone thinks of
b. They said sorry for bigger 7. Do you share any of the
their exes sometimes,
b. Yup, they have moved on same friends?
By: JULIA PUGACHEVSKY
mistakes they made in the but healthy adults find

with someone else. relationship. a. Yes, we do...but we never ways to move on.
4. Who was more hurt by 6. Have *you* ever Liked hang together.
the break-up? their pictures or watched b. Nah, our social circle split
a. Oh, definitely me. their Stories? post our break-up. n
118 COSMOPOLITAN DECEMBER 2020 FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN 000
DECEMBER 2020 COSMOPOLITAN
Artwork By: DIVYA SESHADRI
fashion
In Good
Company
Boasting some of 2020’s hottest trends, these gorgeous pieces—an
assortment of the choicest must-have accessories ATM—illustrate what
it really means to be a fashion icon!
By Zunaili Malik; Illustrations: Tanya Chaturvedi; Text: Humra Afroz Khan
OUR FAVE
Bracelet, Tiffany &

Co., price on request
LOCK IT UP
OUR FAVE
Ah, some more link chains...this time for
your wrist! The chains are going from XXL
Square Acetate to XXX (+how ever many Xs you’d like)
sunglasses, Gucci, GET IN ON THIS L, and although a good way to go about
price on request SHADE-Y BUSINESS styling them is to contrast a large-ish chain
Sunglasses are having quite a moment in the bracelet with a more dainty-ish necklace,
sun, and in every sense! The 2020 pieces there’s no rule of thumb, really. So go
are all about remembering the days of yore: ahead and team what you like with what
from cat-eyes of the ‘50s, through oversized you like. Just that if we were you, we’d
versions of the ‘70s, to square shapes of make sure we chose the most atypical
the ‘90s and early-aughts. And the more creations from the lot...
exaggerated your take, the more standout
your pick. Think, embellished frames, tinted
lenses, chimerical frames, dramatic prints,
and an array of happy, mood-uplifting colours!
fashion
DABBLE IN A BAUBLE
If you have been following the
jewellery trends on the runways,
you’ll know it is all about making
a statement. Earrings in colourful
PACK A POUCH gems, scalloped shells, pearly beads,
Moving on from the gigantic carryalls that gleaming crystals, et al made great
could fit your entire world and the miniscule waves. And while many a new design
versions that could barely hold your came to life, the classics saw quite
AirPods, the latest It bags are the buttery- the reinvention, too. Like the re-
soft pouches. From pillow-like dumplings to emergence of the good-old hoops as
puffed-up fold-overs, the arm candies are to innovative, standalone picks. This one
play perfect accessories to your outfits, be here is not just deliciously blinged-out
it a casual-chic day outing or a glitzy night with all the right characteristics, it
affair. Extra points if your pouch comes also comes with a stud as the other
with just as trendy features, like a catchy piece (yes, mismatched), made to
colour and chain links! direct all eyes to your ears!
OUR FAVE
The Chain Pouch bag,

Bottega Venetta, price
on request
OUR FAVE
Tribales Earrings, Dior,

`38,500
fashion
SHOW ‘EM WHAT YOU GOT

If there’s one thing the runways this year have
taught us, it is to be deliciously bold and out-
there! And why not?! Having fashion inhibitions
and fears is so Ancient Age, anyway! So if you THE FLORAL PURSUIT
have it, flaunt it, ladies. Yes, even your logos...
The sartorial movement of flashing logos in all
sizes, whenever and wherever you want, is still MAKE IT A GARDEN PARTY
going strong. And is leaving nothing untouched: Okay, first things first: in 2020, florals any
clothes, shoes, bags, accessories, socks, even time of year are groundbreaking! It just
hats. This one below is inspired by graffiti and depends on how you decide to get in on the
Gaston Vuitton’s collection of Aboriginal masks, trend. While a blooming-in-blossoms-head-
and boasts a tone-on-tone monogram all over on to-toe adventure is more the vibe this year,
the other side, too. the floral-shy can try budding out with one
striking piece at a time. This chunky-heel
offering, for instance. Going by the name,
we can already see ourselves walking them
down a breezy promenade in some faraway
beachy town on our next holiday! But you
can also take them out for a brunch with
friends, or on a date night with bae.
OUR FAVE
Sandals, Fendi,
`60,000
OUR FAVE
Crafty Reversible
Bucket Hat, Louis
Vuitton, `55,000
BLOW HOT
IN COLD
Winter is here. And as you dust off those warm essentials, may
we suggest rejigging things a bit? The same ol’ outerwear—
bombers, blazers, coats, et al—but a whole new world of stylish
possibilities, innovative combinations, and standout looks, for an
au courant glow up.
Styling: Priyanka Yadav; Photographs: Sushant Kadam
(Left) Knotted dress,

Rajesh Pratap Singh,
`26,500; foil textured
jacket with cape
sleeves, Rohit Gandhi
+ Rahul Khanna,
`34,500
(Right) Dress, Aroka,

`6,750; handwoven
metallic textured
jacket, Akaaro,
`16,000
(Left) Solid shirt,
Siddhartha Bansal,
`7,199; side-belt Jacket with exaggerated shoulders,
blazer, Lovebirds, Aroka, `14,300; boots, Nikita
`17,500; Orchid Mhaisalkar, `55,500; Orchid
Earrings, Azga, Earrings, Azga, `4,500
`4,500; Ultisa
Sneakers, Melissa,
`6,999
(Right) Rornage
Bodysuit, Shivan &
Narresh, `17,950;
jacket, Swapnil
Shinde, `43,000;
metallic stilettos,
A&S, `4,350
(L-R) Shirt with pleated
sleeves, Siddartha Tytler,
`13,500; Cityscape Fascia
Skirt, `49,500, and Under
Water Hand-Embroidered
Jacket, `79,500, both
Rahul Mishra
(Left) Chalbaaz Crop Bomber Jacket, Suket Logo printed winter
Dhir, `24,650; jogger pants with zipper jacket, United Colors of
pockets, Pawan Sachdeva, `16,000 Benetton, `14,999;
handkerchief maxi dress,
(Right) Fur trim darted coat, Dhruv Kapoor, Nidhi Yasha, `29,120; Art
`45,500; Will Buckle Boots, Christian Deco Gatsby Earrings,
Louboutin, `2,65,000 Azga, `1,850
Vest with kantha

embroidery, Aroka,
`6,350; pleated neoprene
skirt, Shivan & Narresh,
`19,950; Colour Waves
Embellished Jacket,
Siddhartha Bansal,
`33,999
(L-R) Half-tone
organza jacket,
`12,500, bralette,
`5,500, and Artful
Midi Skirt, `14,500,
all Pankaj & Nidhi;
classic pearl hoops,
So Fetch, `1,200;
Melissa Soft Sandals,
Melissa, `7,499
Schering Jacket,
Rahul Mishra,
`69,500; Marble
Jacket, Lovebirds,
`18,900; transparent
heels, A&S, `4,000
Garden Of Earthly
Desires Jacket,
Almost Gods,
`22,500; pleated
skirt churidar, Rajesh
Pratap Singh,
`18,500; tulle top,
Genes Lecoanet
Hemant, `4,399;
white heels, Rahul
Mishra X OCEEDEE,
`9,950
(Left) High-neck jersey,
`12,000, and long coat,
`35,999, both Pawan
Sachdeva; The Last Of Us
Shorts, Almost Gods,
`16,500; classic pearl
hoops, So Fetch, `1,200;
Melissa Soft Sandals,
Melissa, `7,499
(Right) Quilted leather

jacket, Siddartha Tytler,
`28,000; pants, Kanika
Goyal, `10,500; knee
pads with sequinned Kuri blazer, Two Point Two, `18,999;
mochi embroidery (worn leather corset bustier, Shivan & Narresh,
on arms), Mohammed `21,950; Leaves Of Luck Two Finger
Mazhar, `14,000; Ring, Zariin, `2,800
Campana Sneakers,
Melissa, `8,999
Jacquard jacket,
`65,000, and beige lace
jacket, `72,000, both
Ashish N Soni; Leaves Of
Luck Two Finger Ring,
Zariin, `2,800; Fish
Brooch, Azga, `2,850
(On hands below) Band

of Style Ring, `2,800,
and Time and Dime
Ring, `2,800, both Zariin
Long half-organza,
half-suiting trench
coat, Nirmooha,
`24,000; Drill A Line
Skirt, Saaksha &
Kinni, `13,000;
sunglasses chain
(worn as a neck
chain), Roma
Narsinghani, `3,605;
link sunglasses chain
(worn as a neck
chain), So Fetch, Make-Up and Hair: Bishu Sinha; Models: Avanti Nagrath at Runway Lifestyle, Nisha Kumari at Inega Model
`1,299 Management, and Khup S Hangsing at A Little Fly; Fashion Assistant: Manveen Guliani
RT Y O
A
IT ’S BEG I N N I NG
TO LOOK A LOT
LIKE…
Yo u , s o i r é e
edition.
Who cares if
n o - o n e’s t h e r e
t o s e e yo u r
showstopping
embroidery or puf f
s l e e v e s — t h a t ’s
Festivities may look a little what Instagram

i s f o r.
different this year, but you can (Facing page) Bra and
be just as stunning as ever. dress, both David

Koma; heels,
Giuseppe Zanotti;
earrings, Jacquie
Aiche; rings (right
Photographs: Styling: Text: hand), Brent Neale,

(left hand)
Ruben Chamorro Cassie Anderson Rachel Torgerson Grace Lee
(This page)
Dress, Gucci;
earrings, KatKim;
choker, Mateo;
ring, Tom Wood
G O T O TA L
B O DY W I T H I T
Yo u r h o l i d a y
c h a l l e n ge:
show of f a full-
length outfit on a
c h e s t- u p s c r e e n .
H o n e s t l y, t h e s e
sat in-y bot toms Yo u o n N Y E
or
deser ve t he a
fa
bu
attention! lou
s ’8
?
0s
et
starlet
rp
or he a
Jumpsuit, Self-Portrait; ng f r first red c
pi
heels, Alexandre im
pr
Vauthier; earrings,
Rebecca de Ravenel;
ring, Brent Neale
oo m people
e Z ca
th n’
e: t
te
si
ll
up
yo
Secret
ur po sh is s
li
ill t
w
et
.
A L L T H AT
GLIT TERS IS…
FIRE
I t *i s* t h e h o l i d a y
season, my
f r i e n d — i f yo u
haven’t been
sparkling it up
a l l ye a r, n o w ’s
t h e e f f i n g t i m e.
Dress, Alessandra
Rich; earrings, Cult
Gaia
N OT YO U R
le damn pre
e who s en
AV ER AG E LB D
th t.
be
d Tr u e, i t i s w e i r d
an
o u t t h e r e, b u t
s
es
t hat doesn’t mean
dr
the safe black
Wear this
d r e s s yo u w e a r f o r
ever y t hing is t he
mood. This wild-
child bb just feels
s o m u c h b e t t e r,
yo u k n o w?
Bra and dress, both

David Koma; heels,
Giuseppe Zanotti;
earrings, Jacquie
Aiche; bracelet,
Nicole Rose Fine
Jewelry
BEAUTY
BONUS
Spritz Aveda
Tex t u r e To n i c,
`9 5 0, f r o m r o o t s t o
tips for the par t y-
friendly version of
va c a t i o n h a i r.
RAMP UP THE
DRAMA, MAMMA
Ye s , f r i l l s ! Ye s , Tim
e
d o t s ! Ye s , m o r e t
o
shiny satin!
(f
in
Throw it all on
all
and turn all the
y) put on
h e a d s (v i r t u a l l y o r
o t h e r w i s e).
he
Dress, Magda Butrym;
el
s,
Paris Texas boots, pe
shopbop.com;
op
le!
earrings, Joomi Lim;
ring, Lele Sadoughi
FUZZY CAN BE
FORMAL!
‘Cosy’ and ‘ fancy’

c a n t o t a l l y go
t o ge t h e r — a n d
t h a t ’s e n o u g h c a u s e
for celebration
r i g h t t h e r e, i f yo u
ask us.
Top and skirt, both

Zara; heels, Giuseppe
Zanotti; earrings, Cult
Gaia; bracelets,
Adina’s Jewels; ring,
Brent Neale
Ha
ve
you
r fries…
and burgers
too
.
y: .’
sa ts
tfi
h ey ou
t t c or ur
ha de yo
w e ch
ow om at
kn h m
u o ur to
Yo l y
al
uy
‘B
FRILLED TO
M EE T YO U
Ta ke a l i ’ l r u f f l e
a n d t i m e s i t by
f o u r. B e c a u s e i f w e
can’t ring in t he
N e w Ye a r w i t h a l l
our favourite peo-
p l e, w e m a y a s w e l l
stun in our most
ex t r a l o o ks .
Dress, Moschino
Couture; heels, Cult
Gaia; earrings,
Alessandra Rich;
bracelets, Adina’s
Jewels; rings, Tom
Wood
H a i r : J e ro m e C u l t re r a
using Oribe Hair
C a re . M a k e - U p :
Deanna Melluso
u s i n g U r b a n D e c a y.
M a n i c u re : E l i z a b e t h
G a rc i a . P ro p S t y l i s t :
S u m m e r M o o re .
Model: Chloe Nguyen
at One Management.
L o c a t i o n : P a u l ’s
Cocktail Lounge at the
R o x y H o t e l , N e w Yo r k .
beauty
Eyebrows
SAFETY With your forefinger and
FIRST Forehead middle finger, create
How to Massage
Try not to stretch the skin—this Place one hand just above medium-to-firm pressure at
is counterproductive. “Keep the hairline, with four fingers the start of the brow. Hold for
an eye on little folds and wrinkles at the top of your forehead, a second, then press up and
when doing the exercises,” says and hold. Using your other out towards your temple.
Inge. “Stop, reposition and realign hand, make firm, circular Repeat three times.
movements across your
Your Face Like

your technique, ironing out any
little lines before continuing.” forehead with your fingers,
And if your skin is touch- to reduce tension.
sensitive, perform fewer
repetitions.
a Pro
Turns out, kneading your face might not only be the Under the Eyes
Using the three middle fingers,
secret to dermatological bliss, it can also ease tension and make light, fast taps across
your upper cheeks and
aid stress relief. Here’s the expert guide to getting started. under-eye pouches (you don’t
need a jade roller for this but it
By Kate Pasola can help to de-puff your
under-eyes).
STEP 1
KEEP IT CLEAN
I
Thoroughly wash your
hands—and we mean Right Cheek
n times of stress (hello, 2020!), not only does the skin
thoroughly—before Place your right hand on
on our faces often go into meltdown, but the muscles the massage. the right side of your face.
behind the scenes hold one heck of a lot of tension, too. Lightly pull the cheek’s skin
Enter: facial massage. Admittedly no new practice (it has back. Now, breathe out
forcefully towards the left for
been around for 3,000 years), facial massage began as part of 10 reps. Try as hard as you
traditional Chinese medicine. And while it won’t address skin can to work against the stretch
concerns like acne, rosacea, congestion, and pigmentation (for created from your hand.
MEET that, you’ll need to see a GP and/or a dermatologist), it can STEP 2 Repeat on the other side.
PICK YOUR
THE offer lots of other benefits to your face.
PRODUCT
“The main benefits of daily massage on the face are
PROS removal of tension and stress in muscle tissue. Massage will All our experts advise using
an oil. Eilidh recommends
also remove toxins, help to drain and eliminate puffiness and something fragrance-free and
fluid retention, and improve blood circulation,” says Nichola non-comedogenic (that won’t
Joss, A-list beauty therapist. “Over 40 muscles make up clog your pores), like
I NGE T HERON grapeseed oil. Lips
Founder of the scaffolding of the face,” adds Inge Theron, Founder of Keep your mouth closed,
FaceGym FaceGym, the world’s first gym dedicated to your face. “And and with forefingers on top of
lips and thumbs underneath
just like the muscles in the body, the more you move them, the lips, press and hold. Then
EI LI D H SMI T H more lifted, tightened, and toned they become. Daily muscle stretch the lips outwards. If
Founder of STEP 3
stimulation is key.” your lips are chapped, skip this
S kinw ork step or apply a moisturising lip
According to Eilidh Smith, Founder of specialist studio P R E P Y O U R FA C E
oil or balm first, such as Estée
NI CHO LA JOSS Skinwork in London, facial massage can provide an emotional Apply oil to your palms and
Lauder Pure Color Envy Lip Chin
press it into the cheeks, sides of
Celeb rity Facia l release. Adding massage into your night-time skincare routine Repair Potion, `2,100, or Using your forefinger and
the face and forehead. Sweep
Massage Exper t Kama Ayurveda Almond And thumb, pinch horizontally
will help turn it from a chore into a meditative ritual you look down from the ear through the
Coconut Lip Balm, `575.
centre of your neck and end and vertically to plump out
forward to, encouraging you to ring-fence time dedicated to the chin.
at the opposite shoulder.
self-care and relaxation before hitting the hay. Repeat three times on
each side.
beauty
SHORT ADVERTORIAL
ON TIME?
Commit a few steps to memory,
and integrate them into your nightly
Between the Brows skincare routine. If you don’t want to
use oils, just make sure your
Take your index finger and Corner of the Eye
moisturiser is silicone-free to avoid
place it on your corrugator Using your forefinger or ring
pilling, and thick enough to take time to
muscle, right between your finger, press lightly into the
work into the skin—we love Innisfree
eyebrows, with a little inner corner of your eye,
Green Tea Seed Deep Cream,
pressure. Raise your brows moving across to the outer
`1,950, and Bobbi Brown
up and down 10 times. corner in the same way you
Hydrating Water Fresh
might apply concealer—this
Cream, `5,600.
will help to drain fluid.
Temple
Place your index fingers on
your temples, supporting the
skin (pulling slightly towards
hairline). Take your middle
finger and gently sweep
under the eye area towards
the bridge of the nose. Then
slowly work along the
eyebrow. Do this six times.
Nose
Working from the bridge of
the nose, sweep outwards
and upwards towards the
hairline. Do this six times.
Left Cheek
Stretch an arm over your head
and hook your four fingers
under the opposite cheek.
Press and lift for five to 10
seconds. Alternatively, simply
use the heel of your hand.
Repeat on the other side.
Corner of the Jaw

Open your mouth and place
Jawline four fingers on the corner of
Make a claw on each hand your jaw, with your forefinger
with your index and middle closest to your ear. Pressing
finger, and with palms facing up and out with medium
outwards, sweep the knuckles pressure, make small,
from chin to the end of the circular movements
jawline. Do this six times. to release tension.

beauty SUGAR Eye
Told You So!
Smudge Proof
Q
Eyeliner, `699
I am in love with this
season’s high-on-kohl
eyes. How can I achieve the
look without looking like a
raccoon a few hours later?
A: Two words: layer products. Just like
you layer skincare, it is important to FOR THE
find the right mix of products to ensure
that any prone-to-smudge look stays in
place. Start by applying lid primer, as it
EXCLUSIVE
helps product glide on smoothly, and
also makes it pop. Next, use a long-
Follow www.bridestoday.in for
wear, smudge-proof kohl to line the the latest in fashion, beauty and
upper lids and waterline. Now, take a
small eyeshadow blending blush and celebrity news.
MAX MARA
diffuse the intensity a bit on the upper

and lower lids. You can add a coat of Rimmel Soft
matte eyeliner on top to seal the deal. Kohl Kajal
Swipe on a few coats of mascara, and Eye Liner
you’re done. Pencil, `150
Q
Nourish Mantra Holy
Basil & Neem My acne-prone skin is
Vardaan Mud Mask, craving a mask that
Beauty
`1,695
will give it suppleness and
clarity. Any leads?
A: Sometimes, it is nice to go back
to traditional ingredients, like neem,
Expert
that our mothers and grandmothers
swear by. Nourish Mantra, a
homegrown brand, has just launched a
line of masks, featuring age-old beauty
recipes. For your concern, you should try their Holy Basil & Neem
Vardaan Mud Mask—both these ingredients are known for their
medicinal and anti-inflammatory properties. The formula also
WE ANSWER A BUNCH OF YOUR BURNING features tea tree oil (known for clearing acne), and amyris oil,
By: MEGHNA SHARMA
BEAUTY QUESTIONS. which soothes skin and calms the senses.
Q
I have dull skin and everyone
recommends using a Vitamin C-rich
formula. However, all the Vit C products I
Q I know that using a primer is an essential
step to ensure make-up sits well on skin and
looks flawless. But I hate layering products and
Pilgrim
have used so far sting and irritate my want a quick routine... Any multi-taskers you can
Vitamin C skin. What should I do? recommend?
Night A: Often, people with sensitive skin complain of this. A: Don’t we all want that?! If you are going out and know that it’ll be a
Serum, Vitamin C comes highly recommended for skin long day (or night), you should certainly consider using a primer to
`550 create a great base for foundation. The reason we are insisting on
brightening, but it doesn’t necessarily work for
everyone. You should start with a diluted, low- this is because, while it might seem like an extra step, a primer will
intensity formula with hydrating ingredients and ensure you use less foundation and give you lasting coverage.
then work up from there. Even though Vitamin C However, on time-strapped days, use a hydrating,
fights free-radical damage, sometimes, using it mattifying cream, which can also
during the day can also leave skin irritated due double up as a primer.
to sun exposure. Or, it might leave an orange-ish Clinique’s Moisture Surge
film on the skin’s surface when it comes in Intense, for instance, is a
contact with oxygen. To avoid this, try a night cream-gel formula that is
cream or serum. This one by Pilgrim, a Korean super-hydrating and leaves
brand, also has Vitamin E, hyaluronic acid, and a matte finish. PS: it
white lotus extract that, along with Vit C, helps nourishes skin with lipids,
boost collagen production, fight signs of ageing, and provides 72-hours of
refine skin’s texture, and enhance glow. hydration even after you
Clinique Moisture Surge
have cleansed your face. Intense 72H Lipid-
Replenishing Hydrator,
`2,950/50ml
FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN DECEMBER 2020 COSMOPOLITAN 000
beauty
LUST LIST PRETTY STUFF WE’VE GOT OUR EYES ON THIS MONTH!
LIFESTYLIST IT’S OUR JOB TO KEEP YOU INSPIRED
MyGlamm Treat Love Care 24Hr Anti-
Pollution Foundation, `995
Bvlgari Omnia Golden Citrine MyGlamm’s new anti-pollution foundation
EDT, `4,300/40ml promises to perfect your skin tone, while
Part of Bvlgari’s best-selling caring for your skin. Formulated with natural
Omnia series, this golden ingredients like soy, sunflower seed oil, and
bottle—that looks like a flash of rosemary, which destroy free radicals to
sunshine—houses an equally protect skin from sun damage and pollution,
glowing scent. The fruity, floral, this vegan foundation offers a silky finish and
and woody notes include Sicilian flawless coverage that lasts for 24 hours!
mandarin, white peach accord,
ylang-ylang essence, jasmine,
and cedarwood essence, all of Kiko Milano Holiday Gems
Diamond Dust Lipstick,
which make this fragrance fresh, `1,790
fun, and addictive. Swiping on a glittery
lipstick is the easiest way
Perenne Glow to get into festive spirit.
Booster Radiance And Kiko Milano’s latest
Serum, `1,750
drop is perfect for that as
This lightweight
it is long-lasting, offers full
formula, rich in
coverage, and leaves a
antioxidants, targets
sparkly finish. Bonus: it
pigmentation and
has a delectable scent that
dullness. All you
smells a lot like Christmas!
need is a few drops
every day to hydrate
and rejuvenate skin, Arata Super
Shampoo, `899
reduce spots, refine
Designed specifically
texture, and boost
for thinning hair, this
luminosity.
clean formula
features onion and
argan oils, and apple
cider vinegar—all of
which have
therapeutic benefits.
Along with hydrating
and repairing dry,
damaged strands,
this formula also
boosts the natural
circulation of scalp,
promoting hair
growth.
Skeyndor Essential Moisturizing
Emulsion, `2,540
This super-moisturising formula is The Body Shop Winter Jasmine Body
great for both oily and Butter, `1,595
combination skin types...it seeps One great thing about the holiday
deep into skin to hydrate it from season is the fun, festive packaging
within, does not clog pores, and our favourite beauty goodies come in.
By: MEGHNA SHARMA
leaves a matte finish. Translation: And this body butter—with jasmine

you can go about your day without extract, shea butter, sesame seed oil,
worrying about the 3pm shine or and moisturising cocoa butter—is the
any dry, flaky patches. perfect way to keep your skin happy,
and your dresser looking pretty!
152 COSMOPOLITAN DECEMBER 2020 FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN 000
DECEMBER 2020 COSMOPOLITAN
Artwork By: ADITYA DAMLE
lifestylist
How to
Dress
Like
Your Star
Sign
Compiled By: PRIYANKA YADAV; Photographs: GETTY IMAGES

No two star signs are the same—in
personality or sartorial choices. Make
sure you’re living your best life by
aligning your wardrobe with the stars...
By Astrologer Kerry Ward/Tarotbella;
Illustrations: Tanya Chaturvedi
lifestylist
Ananya
Panday
Sonam Kapoor
Ahuja
ARIES 21st March-19th April

TAU R U S 20th April-20th May
Your confidence and strength give you ambitious ideas about your outfits. A look that draws attention and double-takes ticks the You’re into luxury. ‘No, thank you’ to throwaway fashion. ‘Yes, please’ to ultra-luxe one-offs. You don’t mind splashing the cash on
boxes for you. Athleisure also suits your chilled nature, even if you’re just watching TV in it. pieces you know will last a long time. Putting well-matched, elegant, and accessorised looks together is a happy pastime for you.
lifestylist
Susie
Lau
Ami and Aya

Suzuki
GEMINI 21st May-20th June

CANCER 21st June-22nd July
Back in the ’90s, everyone wore fluorescent T-shirts, cycling shorts, whistles, bucket hats, and white gloves. Well, the wardrobe of the raver A dreamy, imaginative, and mystical hippy chick gliding through life on a cloud of good vibes, you adore feminine, floaty, and floral
is well-suited to Gemini’s fun-loving, hard-partying, and youthful demeanour. You love to play, dance, and feel young and free. Rave on. pieces that make you feel like a spiritual guru. Crystals on every finger? Natural, vegan fibres, and organic shoes? Check.
lifestylist
Hailey Baldwin
Bieber Laiza De
Moura
LEO
23rd July-22nd August
VIRGO
23rd August-22nd September
A major extrovert who loves to stand out from the crowd—not in a wacky, eccentric way, but in an admiration-grabbing ‘WHO TF IS THAT?’ way. Virgos are all about precision, order, and organisation. You like things that match. You like Marie Kondo. You probably have a capsule wardrobe
Stopping traffic, drawing longing glances, attracting attention—this is the agenda of your wardrobe. Everything has to work hard or go home. of timeless, elegant pieces that go together perfectly. Nothing sloppy, scruffy, vintage, tie-dyed, or crocheted, thank you very much.
lifestylist
Emili
Sindlev
Priyanka
Chopra Jonas
LIBRA
23rd September-22nd October
SCORPIO 23rd October-21st November
Flirting is life for Libra—you’re a natural-born charmer. Your fits tend to be fitted and well-suited to your body shape. Looking good is very You like to look rich, powerful, and in control. Status symbols, designer labels, and big, bold statement jewellery are all in play in your dressing
important because it boosts your confidence. Your style is feminine, but in secret you love lounging around in your joggers. room. These bulky items can, in a tight spot (which Scorpios often find themselves in), double as a handy coat of armour. Just saying.
lifestylist
Linda
Tol Kim
Jones
S A G I T TA R I U S 22nd November-21st December

CAPRICORN 22nd December-19th January
You’re a freedom-seeking, independent, outdoors-y free spirit. Your outfits need to be durable, comfortable, unrestrictive, and practical, but you like sexy You’re all about respect...and portraying yourself as a person who’s got their sh*t together. Presenting a ‘take me seriously’ outer shell
cowboy boots and animal print, too. You’re into saving the planet, so love natural textures and fibres, and organic, sustainable brands all tick the box. to the world is important. You like power dressing and designer labels. Clothes are an investment—no frittering cash on fast fashion.
lifestylist
Jenny
Lady Walton
Gaga
A Q UA R I U S 20th January-18th February

PISCES 19th February-20th March
Anything goes here. Seriously, anything. Space suits, vintage ballgowns, giant sequins, see-through mesh leggings, peacock-feather hats... Yes, Gentle, romantic, whimsical, and serene... You adore vintage pieces, and the more history, the better. Finding a dress in a dusty old shop that
it’s all a possibility in the eccentric, unique, and wonderful world of Aquarian fashion. You follow trends because you love anything new! makes you look like a (hot) phantom from the Victorian era, who died pining for a lost love, would send a shiver of joy up your romantic spine.
astro
Cancer Virgo
Gemini 21.06–22.07
All seems smooth-sailing in
Leo 23.08–22.09
Um, so Mars might mess with
21.05–20.06 23.07–22.08
your love life this month, your relationship—beware of
~Hot Alert~ Things are This month, Mars shall
Cancer, with romance and small misunderstandings
about to get super-steamy in bestow harmony and
passion aplenty. Singles causing big rifts. But the
the boudoir, thanks to Venus passion upon all you Leos
might meet someone special Goddess of love, Venus, will
and Mars. Singles sweat not,
GET A SNEAK PEEK AT WHAT TO LOOK FORWARD TO... AND WHAT TO romance is in the air for you, post the 22nd. On the
equally, irrespective of your come to your rescue soon!
current relationship status. Single Virgos can look
WATCH OUT FOR! By Jai Madaan too...and your exciting love professional front, you
You can also look forward forward to a potential beau in
life will help you end the year could see some significant
to some happy times with their own social circle.
on a good note! Things at changes, so be prepared.
the fam, as they shower you Overall, self-belief and good
work also look encouraging, And be cautious of
with love and support. communication are
with your bosses backing overspending, as money
Professionals can rejoice, paramount this month, Virgo.
you. Money will flow in easy, could be tight due to the
too, as workplace Things at work could turn
and the upcoming lunar current planetary positions.
relationships are likely to unpleasant due to non-
o s
eclipse will help you plan Things could be a little hectic
improve and further cooperative colleagues, and
your finances better. Beware this month, do take good
enhance your career. there might be some delay in
of possible mental care of your health.
However, do avoid any achieving targets. But
exhaustion: de-stress and
C sm A t ro
risky financial investments. persevere. Also, don’t neglect
unwind regularly.
your emotional health and try
to conserve energy by
o
managing time better.
n to the heave
tur ns
to a
e
ti m
nd
ind
I t’s
ulge
in some
sta
Scorpio
rg
Aquarius Aries
az
Capricorn
in
g!
23.10–21.11
20.01–18.02
You can look forward to a Pisces 21.03–19.04
This month has Venus
Libra When it comes to bae, keep Sagittarius 22.12–19.01
19.02–20.03 23.09–22.10 your temper in check, 22.11–21.12 Mars might test your
blissful time with family and
your SO (thanks to all the Caution: when it comes to
smiling upon you, ensuring
your love life is in full bloom!
Taurus Brace yourself, Libra: your Scorpio, to prevent rocking Mars will amp up your love relationship this month, so
your bond with bae, do not 20.04–21.05 love life might get a tad your love boat. A workplace rhythms this month, and keep things tight with boo
oneness you’ve been Singles will feel their
let jealousy take over, and be December is looking hella volatile this month. But romance is a possibility for facilitate better with a bit of tact. Venus will
experiencing with the charismatic best. Familial
open to some healthy good for romance...so remember, any difference of some singles. The communication between help restore the romance in
Universe). On the love front, life bodes well, too, and you
compromise. Good news expect things to get steamy, opinion with bae can benefit atmosphere at home can be you and your SO. And the second half of the month,
Mars promises to add a dash can look forward to loads of
for singles, though: you and passions to run high in from a little heart-to-heart. plagued with unnecessary singles might find love however...also bringing
of sensuality, Sun will keep happiness and revelry at
might find love while out the latter half of the month. Singles will be able to forge tension, so avoid any when they least expect it. along new opportunities for
the mood upbeat, and Venus home. You might struggle a
and about. When it comes to Singles will enthusiastically romantic relationships with confrontation. But not all is Family affairs can get a bit singles. Hold on at work, as
will bring in oodles of little on the professional
family, you might need to be pursue new relationships, a little help from Mars. But lost, as, on the career front, chaotic this month, and you may face hardships or
romance. You’ll also be feeling front, but don’t lose heart...
more patient than usual. At or you might even rekindle avoid being hasty. you are likely to be misunderstandings at the be denied rewards. Right
particularly social this continue to work hard and
work, life is likely to get an old flame. Disagreement Professional growth might presented with some workplace may compel you now, just focus on what is
month, and are likely to all shall be okay. The
better, and you can expect with your manager might be delayed due to some wonderful opportunities. to think of making a switch. truly important to you. And
indulge in celebrations and upcoming lunar eclipse
special treatment. The lunar leave you drained, but your family issues and Also, you’ll be flushed with But, at least for the latter, don’t forget to spend some
get-togethers. Professionals promises to transform your
and solar eclipses might co-workers will have your psychological distress, but cash this month and the you need not worry, as the quality ‘me-time’ to evaluate
might be rewarded for their finances for the better, and
lead to stress, so do take out back, so don’t fret too much. money inflow shall remain solar eclipse on the 14th future is looking bright. You your life better.
hard work. Things will be you’ll enjoy good health this
some time to relax every With so much going on, stable. You might want to will further help boost your could encounter some
rosy, health-wise, too, keeping month, too.
now and then. Small health make sure you don’t slack take out that yoga mat and finances. minor health issues this
you feeling energetic and
issues could surface, but on your fitness and diet meditate, and the end of month, so do take good
cheerful.
you’ll overcome them easily. routines. December looks a little care of yourself.
stressful.
last word
Bag, Aldo, `7,999
Crabbity!
No matter what look you are
By MANVEEN GULIANI; Photograph (Background): SHUTTERSTOCK.COM
planning to serve this NYE, this

crustacean sparkler will ensure it
looks red hot. Also, this little baby is
perfect to store all your essentials.
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DECEMBER 2020

First Dates Vicky

Cover You, You, You

Editor Nandini Bhalla

FEATURES HEARST MAGAZINES

beauty and celebrity news.

additions to the blue family this canvas for out-there

This is the “hypnotic”

Pulling Céline Sciamma’s Portrait

Anyone Else Not Carrying Wait, When Did Everyone Get

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Compiled By: PRIYANKA YADAV;

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64 COSMOPOLITAN DECEMBER 2018 FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN

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C: In hindsight, what has been your biggest learning

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