DIY#LEARN HOW TO MAKE YUMMY DRINK "FREAKSHAKE" THIS CHRISTMAS#FULL RECIPE#PARTY DRINK

SPECIAL CHRISTMAS DRINK "FREAKSHAKE" AND HERE’S HOW TO MAKE IT

written by Roma Singh on Dec 15, 2015

If the Freakshake had its own motto, it would be, “Go big or go home” and if you feel the need to ask why, a long hard look at its likeness will speak for itself.

It all started at a Pâtissez in Canberra, Australia which is owned by mother-daughter duo Anna Petridis and Gina Petridis, who began offering the epic beverage for sale at their cafe. The decadent combination of food and beverage soon caught on quickly on social media and created an uproar, which brought in the popularity for the tiny cafe in the national capital.

At its very essence, the Freakshake is an extreme version of a sinfully rich milkshake which is garnished and served with dessert accompaniments. The founder of the Freakshake, Pâtissez, serves them in a variety of delicious flavours like a Nutella Salty Pretzel Shake as well as a special edition Christmas freakshake, for all of which, the ingredients are baked in house. Their popularity has reached such a great extent that the 30-seat cafe couldn’t contain all its customers, with some of them even waiting for upto 45 minutes to grab the coveted freakshow of a dessert-beverage. Soon enough Freakshakes began popping up in Sydney, Melbourne and even the UK.

So while we may not have as easy access to a Freakshake at a nearby cafe, this freakshake recipe comes close enough so try it at home yourself.

Chocolate Brownie Freakshake 

What you need (to make 2 servings)

125 ml chocolate sauce or ganache
400 ml milk
2 scoops of vanilla ice cream
Additional 125 ml of chocolate sauce or ganache to garnish the glasses with
Additional 2 scoops of vanilla ice-cream to garnish the glasses with
Whipped cream as required
2 portions of a chocolate brownie (baked or ready made)
A handful of marshmallows

Mehtod:Put the chocolate sauce, milk and ice cream in a blender and mix well. Spread the additional ganache on the inside of the glasses and around the rim of the glass. Add the additional scoop of vanilla ice cream to each glass and pour the chocolate milkshake over it. Over the chocolate milkshake, pipe in the whipped cream till the rim of the glass and top it with a brownie and a marshmallow. Place a straw in your glass and enjoy!

Recipe Credits: 2 Hungry Guys, Good Food Ireland, Domino

 128 views

DIY#CELEBRITY FASHION AND BEAUTY#AMBANI'S PARTY

CELEBRITY FASHION AND BEAUTY AT AMBANI'S PARTY

written by Roma Singh on Dec 18, 2015

Whether it is on a coffee run or a red carpet outing, we love a good style spotting and keep an eye out for opportunities. This week was exceptionally kind to us as the festive season has brought the stars out to get started on their holiday shopping and attend a glittering party or two, while they make sure to look scintillating wherever they go.

Jennifer Lopez goes shopping in Los AngelesIf you didn’t think that a sweater and jeans could look sexy, Jenny from the block is about to prove you wrong. She gives the Christmas holiday staple combination of a sweater and jeans an update with a skin tight route and the bohemian pairing of suede knee high boots and a fringe sling bag. There wasn’t a hair out of place on JLo’s head as she opted for a natural face, blue tinted cat eye sunglasses and a tight ballerina bun.

Aishwarya Rai dazzles at a party at the Ambani’s residenceWe can trust Aishwarya to go for a traditional look that spells elegance, which is just what she opted for at party. She sparkled in a emerald green Manish Malhotra anarkali with silver embellishments. Keeping the look minimal and sophisticated, she wore a deep burgundy lip and her sleek hair left down.

Emma Watson debuts a new hairstyle at a trip to Soho 

Goodwill ambassador for the United Nations and Actress, Emma Watson extended her overall aura of sophistication as she debuted a new short ‘do! Close to the year end, she made sure to stick to the hottest hair trend of 2015 with an asymmetrical bob that has tonnes of texture, which she paired with a poppy pink lip.

Deepika Padukone at the Big Star Entertainment AwardsGiving winter whites a new name, Deepika Padukone looked chic as ever in a pair of Stella McCartney separates which juxtaposed each other, with a ruffled top and bootcut trousers. She kept all focus on her dramatic outfit by pairing it with gold Valliyan earrings and minimal makeup of flushed cheeks, centre parted hair and mauve lips.

Jennifer Lawrence on a trip in New York 

A glimpse of Jennifer Lawrence’s winter ready look has us longing for cooler climes. Sticking to cosy fabrics, JLaw’s outfit is an update on the classics with a monochrome pair of a turtleneck top and frayed skirt. She pairs it with a grey checked overcoat, tights and booties and accessorizes with a pair of beige sunglasses.

681 views

You 

DIY#DONT DO THAT TO YOUR VERY USEFUL TIPS

YOU MUST NOT DO THAT TO YOUR HAIR

written by ROMA SINGH

When you have hair trouble such as split ends, dryness or hair fall, you turn to expensive products to fix them. How about you lessen the damage to your wallets by correcting the way you treat your hair on a daily basis.

Here are 10 things you might be doing wrong with your hair. 

Washing too often
Unless your hair is extremely oily, you don’t need to wash it every day. Over washing can strip your hair of all the essential oils it needs. An alternative is to use a dry shampoo. 

Rough-scrub-dry
After washing your hair, wrapping it in a towel is a good idea but scrubbing it with one is definitely a bad one. All it does is increase hair breakage and make your hair frizzy. Use a worn old t-shirt to dry your hair instead, it’s softer on the hair and minimises that after wash frizz your regular towel gives you. 

Brushing wet hair
When your hair is wet, avoid brushing it. Use a wide-toothed comb instead. Start combing at the bottom to untangle the hair and work your way up. Use a leave-in conditioner or a serum to make untangling those knots easier. 

Too much heat
There’s nothing wrong with wanting to look different every day. But using harsh appliances such as curling irons and hair straighteners every day, sometimes more than once, is definitely not healthy for your hair! Exposing your hair to so much heat, especially if you don’t use a heat protection product on your hair, does more damage than you might realise. 

Brushing too much
 You’ve heard that brushing your hair 100 times before bedtime will give you those luscious locks? Untrue. In fact, incessant brushing tends to make the hair static-y and leads to split ends and breakage. Brush only when you need to. 

Avoiding trims
It is a well-known fact that trimming your hair at a six to eight month interval, depending on your hair growth, is necessary to maintain the health of the hair. It saves your hair from splitting and helps the hair grow faster. But most of us neglect that trim more often than not, ending up with split-ends. 

Skipping conditioner
It is important to use a good conditioner each time you wash your hair. Skipping conditioner can make your hair dull, dry and prone to tangles.

Being your own hair stylist
Anyone who has ever cut their own bangs will tell you what a big mistake it is. It looks easy but there is a reason why stylists learn this art for years. So leave it to the professionals. 

Not season proofing your tresses
With each season, your skin and hair texture changes. But somehow we forget to change our products to suit this change. So if your oily hair becomes dry, it is only logical to switch to products meant for dry hair.  

Resisting changeWe tend to stick to one single hairstyle, like a bun or a ponytail. This pulls our hair in one single spot and results in weakening hair strands and ultimately, in breakage or worse—bald spots. Switch it up from a top knot to loose waves—and your tresses will be left comfortable, healthy and grateful.

DIY#MUST DO#5 EVERYDAY HABITS OF GIRLS WITH GORGEOUS HAIR

5 EVERYDAY HABITS OF GIRLS WITH GORGEOUS HAIR

written by ROMA SINGH

If you’re dealing with way too many bad hair days and constantly covet that celeb perfect mane, this story’s for you. The secret to good hair, doesn’t lie so much in expensive salon treatments as it does in a fool-proof haircare routine. Here’s our roundup of the good-hair habits from all those girls with enviable locks; a to-do list you should start ticking off ASAP…

She knows when to wash her hair 

Any woman with great hair will never go overboard when it comes to washing her hair. She knows how often to wash it and will always use the right kind of products meant for her hair type. So, if you stay in a city where pollution is high and you are exposed to a lot of dirt and grime then make sure you wash it every alternate day and if you live in a city where pollution is not much and humidity is low you can wash it twice a week.

She eats all the right things 

She understands the inside-out approach when it comes to hair.  Hence, she makes a point to eat for her hair; iron, vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and herbs that help keep hair shiny, fuller, stronger and manageable. Want to score big? Add some walnuts, eggs, green leafy vegetables and salmon in your daily diet.

She offers it Sun protection 

While most people slather on SPF to sun-proof their ski, girls with good hair know that the sun can spell trouble for their locks too, that’s why they limit their time in the sun as much as possible and always make a point to use a leave-in conditioner while stepping out during the day.

She trims her hair regularly 

Even while growing their hair, girls who’ve aced their hair game make it a point to get a trim regularly. For a healthy length, a trim every 6-8 weeks is recommended as a precaution against split ends.

She never washes her hair with hot water 

She knows that excess heat is harmful for her hair, can affect its volume and lead to dry and lifeless locks. In addition, a preferred favourite is a bath with lukewarm water instead of hot water and a wash with cold water post conditioning for that healthy lustre.

DIY#LRT DIARIES#TOP INDIAN LOOKS THIS FESTIVE SEASON#MUST TRY

LRT DIARIES—THE TOP INDIAN LOOKS THIS FESTIVE SEASON

WRITTEN BY ROMA SINGH

Up till now during this festive season the Bollywood fraternity has outdone itself in the sheer number of beautiful outfits and jewellery worn by them. Here are some of the best we found from the many parties that happened recently, which gives a great idea on what is trending in the world of Indian fashion now.

Aishwarya Rai Bachchan in a floral outfit by fashion designer Manish Malhotra made it to the list again. The choice of outfit, jewellery and pretty make up which in totality made her look glamorous, yet simple was quite a hit!

Katrina Kaif looked like a beautiful, sexy goddess in a gold and blue transparent sari by one of the top Indian designers—Sabyasachi. Pairing the outfit with a low cut blouse, a lovely jadau jewellery set and showing her wonderful, worked out abs through the sari, Katrina made sure she made it to the 'absolutely fantastic' list.

Shilpa Shetty in this pretty sari by fashion designer Manish Malhotra (he's been a hot favourite all thru this season), shone bright, especially with her offsetting the colour of the sari with bright lips and nails. She was an example to the fact that there is a lot of style in simplicity! The diamonds definitely gave the look a huge upward push though.

DIY#MAKEUP TIPS WITH SPECS#EYES OR LIPS? MAKEUP FOR BESPECTACLED GIRLS

EYES OR LIPS? MAKEUP FOR BESPECTACLED GIRLS

written by ROMA SINGH

Who said eye glasses and make-up can’t go together? Modern eyewear is a fashion accessory, seen on the runways of Prada, Dolce & Gabbana, and Sabyasachi. With movies often depicting bespectacled girls as nerdy stereotypes, glasses seem like obstacles to looking good. You couldn’t be further from the truth. When it comes to wearing make-up with glasses, your look must be balanced. Keep your face fresh with just a stain of colour on you cheeks. Choose between your eyes and lips to make a statement.

Eye Spy
There’s no need to leave your eyes looking like plain Jane’s because of your glasses. Bring out your eye-shadow palettes—striking colours make for a more impactful statement than basic black. Do keep the shade of your frames in mind while experimenting with eye-shadows. Slim metallic frames will complement almost any eye shadow but larger frames may require thought. Offset black frames with mulberry, indigo or jewel-toned shades. For colourful glasses, choose subdued hues—neither contrasting nor exactly matching.

Lip Service
If you’re focusing on your lips, choose a bold colour. This is no time for pale shades. Fuchsia, tangerine orange, or a bright pop of red offset both colourful and dark frames equally well. Dark goth-inspired lips tend to look better with dark or metallic frames. Keep eye make-up to the minimum with just concealer for an even skin-tone and mascara for fluttery lashes.

The Balance
If you want the best of both worlds, here’s a look for you. Take a cue from vintage photographs and pair winged eyeliner in a dark shade with red or plum lipstick. Your pout will pop and the curvy stroke of liner will complete the look without seeming OTT.

Tip: Whether you take the lip or eyes route, flaunt a pop of colour on your nails.

DIY#FASHION TRENDS#RANVEER SINGH'S FASHION CHOICES ARE GIVING US SERIOUS STYLE INSPIRATION

RANVEER SINGH'S FASHION CHOICES ARE GIVING US SERIOUS STYLE INSPIRATION

written by Roma Singh

In recent times, we can’t really count the number of times Ranveer Singh showed up at an event and didn’t have us in complete awe of his dressing sense. And the fun part is that it never gets boring because he always finds something new to surprise us ladies with. Well, we can’t help but take notice and inspiration too! Here is chronicling some of his most memorable looks…

At the GQ Best Dressed Men Awards 

Ranveer attended the GQ Best Dressed Men Awards this year in pyjamas! And those cute kitty bedroom chappals, a black hat and glasses. Some might call it stupid, some call it underdressed and even a cry for attention but hey, he got us to take notice—not just of his dressing style but also those guts!

At the CNWK show 

When Ranveer Singh wears the sophisticated bandhgala he makes sure he adds his quirk quotient to that too. At Kapil Sharma’s comedy show Ranveer wore this Rohit Bal printed outfit and teamed it playfully with a hat.

At the IIFA Awards 

At the IIFA awards last year Ranveer showed up wearing his best wit and a red glitter suit with a black hat! Well, that sure as hell sounds weird but have you seen those pictures? And (let’s face it) those moves! Undeniably dapper!

At the store launches 

When he climbed on top of that car in his multicoloured sweatshirt at the Adidas store launch he balanced it out with a pair of black joggers. When he wore a Mickey Mouse shirt at the H&M store launch he teamed it with a classy hat. Well he sure knows how to balance his loud and quirk just right.

At the Bajirao Mastani promotions 

Glaring colours and blinding glitter, Ranveer Singh has done it all but his best look so far has undoubtedly been the skirt suits he’s worn for those Bajirao Mastani promotions. Sauvé and smart, it’s the androgynous look of the year hands down. And a man that can pull off those suits with such swag deserves our applause!

Image Credits: Miss Malini, Bob Trotta Fashion, IBN Live, Mens XP, Indiatimes, Filtercopy, Filmibeat

DIY#MAKEUP ESSENTIALS#KNOW EVERYTHING ABOUT MAKEUP SPONGES

EVERYTHING  ABOUT MAKEUP SPONGES

written by ROMA SINGH

As makeup lovers, only we know how much we value a good foundation; one that blends perfectly in our skin and hides all our skin problems. That’s the magic of makeup after all—the kind that seamlessly blends into your face and feels light as ever. But do you realise that having the right foundation is of no use if you cannot apply it properly? You might have the best products in place but without the right tools your face will end up looking cakey and unnatural. This is when makeup sponges come handy. Available in variety of shapes and sizes, these sponges make the application of makeup so much simpler. Want to know more about them? Read on...

What?
Makeup sponges are much easier to use when it comes to achieving flawless makeup as they ensure that your face gets the best base makeup ever. Moreover, these sponges last long but this also largely depends on how well you maintain your makeup. Moreover, at times when you apply makeup, people notice it immediately ‘coz your face looks unusually patchy because of the makeup. Well, this might happen because your fingers are not equipped enough to blend the makeup completely. The makeup sponge absorbs excess liquid and ensures that just the right amount of foundation goes into your skin making it look naturally beautiful.

Types of sponges
Acing your makeup depends on the kind of sponge you opt for. The round and rectangular sponges are used mostly for applying foundation on the forehead and the cheeks. You must use the wedge-shaped sponges if you’re looking for contouring. But the egg shaped sponges are mostly used to give your skin even coverage and lends your face an air brush like finish. You can use the tip on your nose and mouth while opt for the wider base when you want to blend makeup on your chin, cheeks and forehead.

How to use a makeup sponge
You must ensure that you wet the sponge before use so it helps smoothen the application. If you’re using liquid foundation, just squeeze on the back of your hand and then dab some on your sponge and apply to the face. Don’t swipe it across your face but ensure that you dab the makeup. Add more foundation to ensure that you get enough coverage over your face and neck.

DIY#MAKEUP TIPS#MAKEOVER#3 WAYS TO GET AN INSTANT MAKEOVER

3 WAYS TO GET AN INSTANT MAKEOVER

written by ROMA SINGH

Always envied girls who get their beauty look bang on? Well, their secret lies in that one makeup product that gives their face a whole new look every time they step out. Girls, don’t spend hours in front of the mirror dolling up. Instead, just keep that one magical makeup product that can instantly change your face. Be it a classic red lipstick or a brow pencil, use one makeup product to transform yourself. Here’s a list of instant makeover must-haves!

Flaunt classic red lips 

Ask a girl what her favourite makeup tool is and she will tell you it’s a red lipstick! After all, when it comes to making an impression, nothing does it better than red lips. Sexy, sensual and stylish—red lips can totally elevate your look. The best part is that red lipstick works wonders on any skin tone—whether you have pinkish undertones or yellow. We suggest you opt for the Lakmé Absolute Lip Pout in Starlet Red. This one’s not too dark, not too subtle—it’s just the shade of red you’ve been looking for. So slip into your favourite dress, wear your red lips and get ready to be showered with compliments, girls!

Wear the perfect base 

Always wondered how some girls end up with flawless looking skin every single time? Well, it’s not like they don’t have a bad skin day but the truth is that they have that one product that brightens up their face as well as covers their imperfections in a jiffy! We know how you’ve had to use tons of products to prep up your face—from a moisturizer to a primer as well as a foundation and concealer. But what if we told you that your skin can get an instant pick-me-up and makeover with a single product available in the market? What you need is the Lakmé 9to5 Insta Light Crème that works as the perfect base for your face. It ends up looking absolutely matte so you need not worry about it leaving a greasy residue behind. Moreover, this cream uses its mineralized powder and luminising pearls to brighten up your face. It’s one product with so many powers. Go get this one, now!

Up your brow game 

The power brow has been a rage for a while now. And we don’t see it going off the beauty scene anytime soon either. After all, there’s nothing hotter than bold brows! You can go makeup free otherwise but your thick brows are instantly going to add just the right amount of drama to your face. Yearning for strong brows? Go for the Lakmé Eyebrow Pencil now! Just use it lightly to highlight your brows and you’d have given your face a whole new look. Hold up Cara Delevingne, here we come!

DIY#EYE MAKEUP#KNOW EVERYTHING ABOUT MASCARA

EVERYTHING YOU DIDN'T KNOW ABOUT MASCARA

written by Roma Singh

We hear you girls, for some of you mascara is as much of a necessity as caffeine. You simply can’t leave home without that added drama on your lashes And why would you? With the right stroke(s) of mascara, you can define your eyes and make them look bigger, brighter and better. Which is precisely why, we’ve put together a list of everything you need to know about the essential wand.

Don’t forget to wipe it off before going to bed

Believe us when we say this, sleeping with mascara is a cardinal sin that you don’t want to be committing. Mascaras have ingredients that make your lashes stiff, which makes it easier for them to break if you toss and turn while sleeping. Better to be a good girl and wipe off the gloop before your sweet night.

The vinegar test
Always sniff your mascara before using it. If it smells anything like vinegar then that’s your cue, your mascara has gone rancid and it’s time to throw it away and indulge in a new wand!

Pumping your brush in and out is a big ‘no no’
Life is short, but your lashes needn’t be! Even so, pumping your brush in and out of the product ends up pushing air into the tube which makes it dry out faster. Instead you need to gently twist the brush back and forth in circular motions to pick up the goods and apply away, generously.

Never share your mascara
As harmless as it might seem to try out your friend’s mascara, don’t be like the rest of them darling. It is not hygienic to share mascara as it can lead to all sorts of eye infections and redness, keeping you one step away from your epic 3D lash game.

Nobody said it was going to be easy
Pick up dark colours like brown, black and blue to add a voluminous effect to your lashes. You can also use the tip of the wand to reach out to the tiniest of lashes in the corners of your eyes for better volume and precision curling.

Tricks of the trade
To apply mascara with utmost precision, curl your lashes before you apply the product. Start applying mascara from the base of your lashes and then gradually go towards the ends. When brushing your upper lashes look down and when brushing your lower lashes raise your chin and look at the ceiling.

With these tips in your kitty, may your lashes be long and your coffee stay strong.

DIY#WINTERS#EXERCISE ROUTINE#5 REASONS TO NOT SKIP YOUR EXERCISE ROUTINE DURING THE WINTERS

5 REASONS TO NOT SKIP YOUR EXERCISE ROUTINE DURING THE WINTERS

written by ROMA SINGH

For many of us lazy bones, we’re always looking for reasons to skip exercising. And now that the winters are here, the dip in temperatures will be used as a big excuse to say no to workouts. Think you’re going to be guilty of this? Well, you won’t be once you get a low-down on the benefits of exercise during the winters.

Keeps you warm for hours
Quite naturally, you will do everything it takes to feel warm during the winters, right? Well, the best thing to do is exercise! A good workout gets your blood pumping and the rise in body temperature has a soothing effect on your body. That way, you won’t even need to switch on the heaters for a while and save up on electricity bills as well as achieve that perfect body you’ve been aiming for!

Goodbye, winter blues
Winter brings about a sense of sadness amongst many. Moreover, many even suffer from SAD (seasonal affective disorder), which is usually a kind of depression associated from lack of light, usually in the winters. This can be treated by exercising as a good workout will ensure that it releases de-stress brain chemicals and instantly makes you feel confident and happy. The perfect way to cheer up, isn’t it?

Boosts your immune system
Winter is the time when our immune systems are put to test, what with many of us falling prey to the flu. This is when you need to exercise for good health. Exercising promotes circulation, which in turn allows cells of the immune system to do their job effectively.

Burns more calories
Surprised? Well, it is during winters that you are likely to work out more rigorously since your body wants to generate more heat. This means there are greater chances of you burning more calories during this season. Weight loss, here we come!

Strengthens your heart
During the winters, the heart works faster to distribute blood to other parts of the body. Hence, when you exercise in the cold, it is quite likely that your heart muscles become stronger and this will make your body more resilient in general.

DIY#DECODED THE BEAUTY SECRETS OF SOFIA#HOW TO GET SOFIA VERGARA’S WEDDING LOOK

 BEAUTY DECODE—HOW TO GET SOFIA VERGARA’S WEDDING LOOK

written by ROMA SINGH

Beginning a life of matrimonial bliss together last week were ‘Modern Family’ actress Sofia Vegara and ‘Magic Mike’ star Joe Manganiello in a romantic flowery ceremony at Palm Beach, Florida. While the groom looked dashing in a tuxedo, it was the bombshell of a bride who stole the show in her sweetheart neckline lace gown.

Sofia wore a classic beauty look that suited the formal occassion and oozed timelessness. While this stunner wore the look on her D-day, its classic elegance is just right for the festive season. Here is our quick decode to help you adopt this look.

Dewy Skin 

Start by prepping your skin with the Lakmé Perfect Radiance Intense Whitening Serum. Using a pea sized quantity, gently apply onto your face with your fingertips, allowing it to nourish deep inside your skin. Not only will the serum penetrate much deeper than a moisturizer but, it will leave your skin dewy and radiant.

Face 

The right pick for this look is the Lakmé Absolute Face Stylist Foundation whose gel-like texture will even out your skin tone without weighing it down. Apply a small amount with a foundation makeup brush and blend it in.You can rest assured that its high coverage will take you from day to night. If you find that you would require more coverage, apply the Lakmé Absolute Face Stylist Concealer with its wand on any spots and blend it in gently. As a finishing touch, dust the Lakmé Absolute Face Stylist Compact over your base to secure it in place.

Cheeks
While Sofia’s glow may have been wedded joy, you can replicate it with the Lakmé Absolute Face Stylist Blush Duos. All you need to do is swirl your blush brush combining both the shades together and gently tap it onto the apples of your cheeks.

Eyes 

Sofia’s subtle yet sultry brown eyes can be yours in a jiffy. Start with the brown from the Lakme 9 To 5 Eye Color Quartet Eye Shadow in Desert Rose over your lid. Top that up with a darker brown, and follow it up with the plum brown at the very end of your eye. Using a fresh eye makeup brush, blend it all in without shifting the shades. Finally, use the last shade in the quartet, the antique gold, over your inner corner and browbone and blend it in.

Then define your upper lid with of the Lakmé Absolute Forever Silk Eyeliner in Blacklast in a single stroke. Follow it up by lining your lower waterline and lash line with the Lakmé Absolute Kohl Ultimate and using the smudger on the reverse side, give your eyes that smokey glint.

Finish off your eyes by curling your lashes and then applying the Lakmé Absolute Flutter Secrets Volume Mascara to give them a boost.

Lips 

While she looked ravishing on the wedding day, it was Sofia’s red lips that stole the show. Get the look with the Lakmé Absolute Sculpt Studio Hi-Definition Matte Lipstick in Red Rush. This deep red with a pink undertone with sculpt your lips and give you a pout that’s as defined as they come.

Hair 

Sofia’s tousled waves completed the elegant look and to get them, start by smoothing the BedHead by TIGI Foxy Curls Contour Cream through towel dried hair. Then twist it into curls and pin it tightly in place. Once dried, you’ll discover frizz-free defined curls with a shine. Then place one section of your hair slightly at the back towards your temple and secure it with a jewelled hair pin.

Photo credit: Instagram

DIY#NEW NAIL TREND#TREND-SPOTTING: COSY UP WITH THE SWEATER NAIL TREND

TREND-SPOTTING: COSY UP WITH THE SWEATER NAIL TREND

written by ROMA SINGH

It is that wonderful time of the year where the chill in the air makes us draw out our woolies and cable knits to bundle up in. But why should our clothing have all the fun! The new sweater nail art trend makes sure that your nails can join in the party too and we’re breaking it down as to just how

There are a number of ways that can be put in practise to flaunt the three-dimensional sweater art trend. Some of them include using an icing technique to create the nail art design and others are carried out by layering an acrylic powder for the indents on the nails.

Want to extend the sweater weather to your talons as well? Here’s how you can nail the trend effectively.

Start by applying a coat of the Lakmé Clear Glass nail polish as a base coat. Once dried, place a few drops of the same transparent shade in a palette for a few second in order for it to thicken slightly. Then use a dotting tool (available online) to spread the layer of nail polish in the desired sweater pattern which could be miniature dots, loops and curls. The thicker the pattern is, the more it will stand out. Finally, finish off by applying a single coat of the Lakme Absolute Gel Stylist nail polish. Replicating cosy woolens as closely as possible, gentle pastel and neutral shades are the ideal choice of colour.

Additionally, you can add a glitter coat, lustre dust or flocking powder within the intricate sweater pattern for your nails to stand apart and make a sweater decked statement this season.

DIY#SKIN CARE TIPS#WINTER CARE#WINTER SKIN CARE TIPS FOR ALL SKIN TYPES

WINTER SKIN CARE TIPS FOR ALL SKIN TYPES

written by Roma Singh

As much as we love the nippy winters, they can have some adverse effects on one’s skin. During this season, dry skin does not secrete enough sebum (oil) due to low temperatures, which causes the hydration levels in the skin to fall causing it to itch. The solution is a rich, creamy moisturiser that will lend you optimum hydration. To bust a common myth, oily skin needs just as much moisturising as dry skin because the harsh winds and dip in temperatures can cause excess production of sebum, which causes breakouts. Therefore, those with oily skin need hydration too in order to prevent the skin from producing more oil but it has to be a mild moisturiser that doesn’t end up being greasy on their skin. Do you dread the winter season for the skin woes it brings with it? Try our tips!

What: Pond’s Moisturising Cold Cream

Who is it for: If you have dry skin, sensitive skin or skin that is easily irritated, then this is a product for you.

Why: A genie for those with dry skin, it deeply nourishes and equips you to fight dry itchy winter skin. This is the time when the moisture from your skin is completely stripped off leaving it chapped, itchy and absolutely dry. The Pond’s Moisturising Cold Cream will help you regain the moisture and attain soft, supple skin in no time! While you use it as a moisturiser, this cream also works as a cleansing agent on the skin as it goes deep and removes all the impurities.

What: Vaseline Total Moisture 24hr Nourishing Lotion

Who is it for: Ideal for those who are looking for a versatile body lotion that can heal, moisturise and protect your skin in the winters.

Why: Winter is the time when your body needs maximum hydration. Armed with the goodness of soya, stratys-3 and glycerin, this product helps your skin become baby soft in winter all over again. After all, this one has a 24-hour nourishing system, which keeps your skin moisturised throughout the day. It is so light and non-greasy that oily skin will drink it up too!

What: Lakmé Peach Milk Moisturiser

Who is it for: A light moisturiser for those who have oily skin and are looking for hydration that is easily absorbed.

Why: Filled with a blend of wholesome peaches, this magic product nourishes the skin deeply without making the skin look oily as it is absolutely light and non-greasy; you’ll feel like you’ve worn nothing on your skin and yet, it will provide your skin with the hydration it needs during this season. To add to its advantages, this product contains vitamins as well as antioxidants that are crucial for oily skin.

What: Vaseline Total Moisture Cocoa Butter Body Lotion

Who is it for: For those looking for intense hydration with the goodness of Cocoa.

Why: If you want beauty tips for winter for dry skin, reach out for the Vaseline Total Moisture Cocoa Butter Body Lotion right away. Why? Well, because this product is the perfect blend of cocoa rich extracts along with micro droplets of petroleum jelly that leave your skin smooth, moisturised and healthy. This product, once applied in the morning, lends your skin hydration throughout the day. Moreover, the cocoa butter goes deep inside the skin, provides nourishment and lends you that glow you always wanted.

What: Opt for lukewarm showers

Who is it for: For skin that feels extremely itchy and stiff during this season.

Why: You might crave hot showers during this season but the ideal thing to do is taking shorter baths or using lukewarm water in the shower. This is because hot water baths break down lipid barriers in your skin, which leads to moisture loss. So we suggest you keep your bath short and warm, especially for those with extremely dry and stiff skin in the winters.

With these useful winter skin care tips, problematic skin will be a thing of the past, ladies!

DIY#5 BEST FUN,EASY HAIRSTYLES FOR MONSOON SEASON#MUMBAI SPECIAL

FIVE FUN HAIR STYLES TO TRY THIS MONSOON

written by ROMA SINGH

Like we’ve mentioned before, we’re not big fans of leaving our hair open in the monsoons. So it’s more often than not that we’re stranded for choice (pun intended!) when it comes to wearing our hair differently. The bun is done, the banana clips are a reliable lot and we’ve already tried everything else in between more often than we’d like. That’s why we got the hair expert, Pallavi Jain, at the Lakmé Absolute Salon to show us her five go-to hair ideas for the monsoon. Though we must warn you, she’s a bit partial to the braid…

The Classy Pull BackAfter you've shampooed and blow dried your hair, take a section from the front and pin it down with a bobby pin. Pull the rest of your hair back into a high ponytail (not the kind you'd wear in school on sport's day, a little lower than that) and let a transparent rubber band hold it tight.

Take the pin off the front of your hair and back-comb that section till it gathers some volume and texture. Pull it to the back to create some height and pin it down, a little ahead of your ponytail. Take the rest of the hair from the pins, have it go around the transparent band and pin it at the base of your pony tail so that it's hidden.

This refreshing take on the ponytail is perfect for both the office as well as a day out. We love that it keeps the hair off our face with the high front balancing out the sleek pony tail. Quite a simple way to add a dressy element to a regular hairdo, we think! We can't wait to try it for our next Monday morning meeting.

The Braided BunAfter you've freshly shampooed and conditioned your hair, use the Toni&Guy Sea Salt Texturising Spray to add texture. Textured hair is easier to work with especially if you're doing hairdos with braids and the like. Start by parting your hair down the middle. Identify three sections of hair on either side of your middle parting and start plaiting your hair down the front all the way till you reach the end of you hair. Secure it with transparent rubber bands.

Take the braid on the right side, have it go along your hairline and secure it behind your left ear with bobby pins. Repeat the same thing with the left braid, only this time have it go under the right braid as you pin it behind your right ear. Remember to pin it down tight so that if you look at the back of your head in a mirror it should look like a unified hairdo (next photo.)

If you have longer hair, you can twist your braid towards the end, roll it up and then pin it from the base.
A totally different take on the regular braids we see everywhere, this one's easy to do and can go with most Indian outfits, including a sari. We've got a couple of wedding and engagements coming up, so you’ll definitely see us trying this hairdo real soon.

The Twisted PonytailAfter you've washed, conditioned and combed your hair, divide your hair into different sections along the front. With each section, pull your hair back, and begin twisting it along the length and secure it at the back. Repeat this for all the sections and pin them down with bobby pins.

Tie the rest of your hair into a ponytail and secure it with a transparent rubber band. Take a thin section of the ponytail, wrap it over the rubber band and tuck it back under it. Hold your hair in place by spraying some TIGI Bedhead Massive Shine Hairspray.

We'll admit, we first thought this hairdo was a bit too daring for our liking but it didn’t take that much time for it to grow on us. Perfect for a Friday at the office or a day out with friends, we can't wait to hear the comments when we wear this hair over the weekend.

The Braid RollStart by parting your hair the way you normally would. Now, divide it into two sections down the front on each side of your parting. Start by folding the hair in one section outwards and inwards (as if you were twisting it.) Continue doing this all the way down this side till you reach the nape of your neck. Here, let it fold into the rest of your hair and secure it with bobby pins. Start braiding the remainder of your hair.

Take the hair from front of the other side and start folding it outwards and inwards till it reaches the braid. Use bobby pins to fold and secure it into the braid.

Go back to the braid and starting at the end, start rolling it upwards closer to your hairline. Twist it a bit and have it merge into the hair from the other side. Since this is a side braid it’ll probably form a slant (as seen in the photo).
This hairdo’s a wee bit complicated so you might want to ask a friend to help you out. But trust us, once you get it right, it'll be totally worth it.

The Double BraidWash, condition and blow dry your hair. Part it the way you normally would and divide your hair into three sections the way you would if you were to braid your hair. For the first few rounds, plait your hair the regular way. Next, begin double braiding.

To double braid, overlay one section of hair over the other. Take the section of hair on the top, braid it like you would normally and close it with a rubber band. Next, take the hair from the lower section and have it go into the section on top (the V that's formed by the braid knot.) Then go back to knotting the top section, securing it with a rubber band, and getting the lower section to the top through the braid. Continue doing this till you reach the end of the braid.

We're absolutely in love with this super variation of the braid. Yes, we admit it's a bit complicated to do but then again, most beautiful things require some amount of effort don't they. We know for a fact that we're going to need some assistance to get it right the first time but with a braid this pretty that we don't even mind wearing thrice a week, we'll spend all the time required to master it.