Author: Garima Kakkar

‘Confusing things girlfriends say’ by FilterCopy is just what you need to watch today!

Relationships are amazing and there is no denying that. They offer support, strength, love, compassion and a person who will stand by you for everything including things as small as crying over a broken toe nail or as big as losing a job.

Relationships can also be slightly confusing especially when you cannot figure what your partner is actually trying to say. While men mostly choose a more straightforward approach to addressing issues; women choose a more subtle way of communicating things. Understanding this “subtle” relationship jargon really depends on how well you know your woman but we feel that there are a few common situations that every man has found himself battling from time to time. And, we are not alone. This video from FilterCopy on ‘Confusing things girlfriends say’ is so on-point that you would want to stand up and take a bow, especially if you’re a man. Don’t believe us? Take a look and find out for yourself.

Featured images sourced from here

January 29, 2016
Amit GT launches his collection on Exclusively.com

Designer Amit GT who is known to have dressed the likes of Deepika Padukone and the Latino beauty Eva Longoria has finally debuted in the online space and we are more than excited.

Exclusively.com, India’s leading premium online lifestyle destination, is all set to launch a collection of sherwanis by the designer especially curated for people who have a cosmopolitan look towards ethnic wear. Encrusted with gemstones, beads and rich & intricate thread work, the Sherwani collection is a reference point to bygone era of regal Rajasthan. In addition to the sherwanis, Amit GT will also be launching beautifully crafted gowns on the website.

This exclusive line by Amit GT appeals to a much larger audience as it brings together an eclectic mix of cultures and genres forming an evolutionary blend of style.

The collection is available on http://www.exclusively.com

Commenting on the association, Amit GT, Designer said, “Being the preferred online destination for designer wear, I am thrilled to launch my designs at Exclusively.com. There is no better platform than Exclusively.com to reach out to a wider and discerning audience.”

Commenting on the association, Amit Maheshwari, CEO, Exclusively.com said, “Exclusively.com is a premium online lifestyle destination for the audience across the globe and we are committed to the continued endeavours to provide the best of fashion to our patrons. With the association with Amit GT, we are hoping to change the current trend in sherwani’s and evening gowns.”

January 27, 2016
Have you heard about friends with emotional benefits? Here are the Dos and Don’ts

Friends with emotional benefits is a newer version of ‘friends with benefits’. It is safe to assume that we have all heard about the concept of ‘friends with benefits’, more commonly known as FWB. It wasn’t just designed for Mila Kunis and Natalie Portman to star in clichéd chick flicks, the arrangement does exist and we are not sure if it works. Just like many relationships, the common outcome of FWB also, at times, is one of the two parties getting hurt. So why are these not called relationships? The only reasons they are not called relationships are because they are officially commitment-free, questions-free and hassle-free. You don’t need to explain FWBs to your friends; you don’t need to introduce this “friend” to your other friends or need to explain anything. It’s just casual sex with a person you’re comfortable around. Period.

The complication arises when one of the two parties starts expecting more than the laid rules. Again, like a relationship, expectations don’t get delivered and the usual shit hits the ceiling and the FWB arrangement ends. There are rare cases when they do end on a mutual agreement too but like we said, these are rare. And the discomfort about ending these on a bad note is the physical part, the whole reason you got into one. When FWB gets too much for you to take or if you’re not ready to share your private, physical space with someone but still need the benefits of a non-committed relationship; friends with emotional benefits kicks in.

‘Friends with emotional benefits’ is really a relationship without the sex and the commitment. So you get the pampering part, the whining part, the inside jokes, the late calls but no sex. It’s like being in a relationship in your head but not on paper. This arrangement remains comfortable for people who are not up for sharing their physical space with a friend yet need emotional support to get through things in life. But like all other arrangements, this also comes with its list of dos and don’ts.

#1 Confide but do not expect

In an FWeB, you may confide in this friend and talk about him/her about any problems; personal or professional and ask for their advice. Where you need to stop is expecting them to do the same. FWeBs do not qualify for a two-way street. The other party might offer you tips to get through your problems but it does not necessarily mean that you get to offer your opinions too (until asked for).

#2 Both the parties are allowed to have physical relationships with other people, but honesty is the key

The entire point of having an FWeB is to give the emotions an outlet. Sex or hook-ups with your FWeB is a big NO. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t venture out for your physical needs. If you or your friend are physically involved with other people, it’s okay but be honest about it. Let your FWeB know that you are and come to a mutual agreement about it.

#3 FWeBs do not turn into real relationships unless both of them want it to be like that

Having friends with emotional benefits is actually harder than having a friend with just physical benefits because the boundaries get blurred here. Friends with emotional benefits are not relationships and should not be confused for being one. They are just people you can talk to and get out of it whenever you want (with a mutual agreement of course). If you wanted to be with this person for real, wouldn’t it have been a commitment?

#4 Know where to draw the line

In an FWeB, you’re essentially just friends. Maintaining that is important. Do not take this equation to realms that confuse things, and if that happens, we suggest end it. Emotional benefits can last for very long or for a very short duration depending on how comfortable people are. Stick to them till the time they are stress-free because that’s the actual point of them.

What do you think about friends with emotional benefits? Let us know in the comments section below.

Pictures and GIFs sourced from Tumblr

January 18, 2016
Six ways to overcome a bad breakup

Breakups are hard and there is no denying that. Separating yourself from your significant other is not only a change in your daily routine but also your habits that develop after many lovely days spent together. While at times breakups come as a relief from a long, painful relationship; there are changes that might make one feel a little lost in the recovery process. And it is absolutely normal. Everybody goes through the pain of overcoming a bad breakup and we feel that it is important at some level. The one thing that can make overcoming a bad breakup easy is not looking at it in a negative light. When you’re going through a breakup ask yourself if you really need a complicated, unrewarding relationship. We are sure the answer will be no and if it is, move on. Take a look at the positive side and understand yourself better. Here are ways to overcome a bad breakup and come out of it feeling light and refreshed.

PS: There is no fast way of getting through a breakup. It is a gradual process and taking time to grieve is very normal.

#1 Understand the importance of being in a rewarding relationship

Breaking up isn’t always as bad as it is touted to be. Being in a relationship that doesn’t make you feel emotionally empowered is worse than being in no relationship at all. Think about your equation with your parents or your best friend. If your significant other doesn’t reciprocate feelings the same way they do, they do not deserve to be “significant” in your life. Understand it and move on and find someone who would treat you as an equal.

#2 Socialise but spend some time with yourself too

It’s a common perception that getting too busy is the best way of getting out of a daunting breakup. It is true, but not entirely. Filling the new void in your life with friends and work is all right, but it is essential that you become comfortable with the idea of not having another person around. Spend some time alone, by yourself to make your peace with it and move on in a healthy fashion. And by healthy, we do not mean with a bottle of vodka, a jar of Nutella and a rom-com with Jennifer Aniston.

#3 Take time to grieve

It’s okay to hold your own while going through an emotional trauma, but taking time to grieve is vital. You will think about moments from the past and it will make your cry and it is best to just do it! Call up a friend and talk to them about how you feel, cry if you feel like. Believe us; it’ll be better than crying in front of Tom from work with a glass (read bottle) of wine in your hand. Think about what’ll happen on Monday after, therefore, just stick to friends for the grief.

#4 Don’t be disheartened by your breakup, take it in a positive stride

Breakups happen because two people cannot understand everything about each other. And both the people are at fault, stop punishing yourself alone. Instead, take this as learning to a better relationship, when you have one. Reflect on what went wrong and correct it so next time when love comes your way, you treat it well.

#5 Start a fitness regime

Join a gym or a fitness studio and get going. Exercise is an underutilised antidepressant and you must make good use of it. We’d recommend a mix of yoga, zumba, cardio and strength workouts to keep the excitement alive. You’ll learn something new, make new friends and get a good change. Go out, get fit, feel healthy and embrace a new lifestyle.

Relationship goals are incomplete without #fitness goals! Do you agree? #GetSetSweat #India #workoutWednesday pic.twitter.com/Us8yb1jThn
— fitpass (@fitpassindia) January 6, 2016
#6 Write about how you feel Another underutilised way to overcoming a bad breakup is writing.You will feel the need to make an angry phone call or leave an angry text message but take it from us, it will not help. It might make things worse actually. Space yourself out from your SO for a bit and instead of the angry call/text, write how you feel on a piece of paper. By writing we do not mean send it out via post, NO! Just write and vent out. We are sure you’ll feel better.

All said and done, breakups are tough but relax, the worst is over. You need to look at all the new adventures that are waiting. We hope this guide to overcoming a bad breakup helps you. Take care of yourself, breathe and smile.

January 15, 2016
H&M all set to open its largest store at the DLF Mall of India

The Swedish international retailer Hennes & Mauritz AB, popularly known as H&M, is all set to open its largest store yet in India, at the DLF Mall of India in Noida. This first flagship store will be spread over 4 massive floors offering latest trends, timeless classics and inspiration for women, men, teenagers and children.

H&M, has two stores in Delhi for now; one in Saket and the second in Vasant Kunj. The retailer has plans to open stores in Bengaluru and Gurgaon in 2016 but the dates haven’t been announced for now.

January 15, 2016
Relax everyone! It’s not like the TV show ‘Friends’ is coming back

We are sure you’ve already heard about the big Friends reunion that is all set to happen on 21^st February but we do not want to get your hopes high. It’s not like the show is coming back, the cast is coming back for a two-hour special on NBC. Not that we are not excited to see the six most amazing television characters come together and recreate the magic, even if it’s just for two hours. But, Friends, the show,unfortunately is not back.

The event is being arranged to honour the famous sitcom director James Burrows’ recent milestone of directing his thousandth episode of television. It will also feature the reunited casts of other off-the-air shows that Burrows has worked on; including Cheers, Frasier, and Will & Grace, as well as some of the ongoing show’s like The Big Bang Theory and Mike & Molly.

Are you ready to see Monica, Phoebe, Rachel, Chandler, Joey and Ross together? Mark your calendar for 21^st February!

January 14, 2016
6 signs that indicate your need to have one-night stands

While sex is not a topic people like to speak about publically, everyone knows that they need some and there is nothing wrong with it. There are a million studies that indicate the benefits of having sex. People, who have sex on a regular basis, live longer, experience lesser heart issues, have lower anxiety and are generally happy and satisfied. While all these factors are understandable, the one issue is that to have sex you need another person. And depending on where you are in your life, it’s not always important to be in a steady relationship to get your fix. There is a lot of social stigma related to one-night stands but hey, if two people can get through it on the basis of a mutual understanding then why not?

One-night stands are best recommended for people who are not certain about where they are in their lives, well emotionally. They offer the comfort of not sitting through relationship talks/dates, not staying in bed the next morning, not emotionally investing in a commitment and just politely getting their physical fix and moving on.

The problem also lies in deciding whether you’re ready for a one-night stand. Are you okay with getting physically involved with a stranger? Will you be able to drive yourself out of it no-strings-attached? Here are six signs that you’re ready for a one-night stand.

#1 You’re not ready to get into an emotional commitment

To be able to have a one-night stand successfully, you have to be one hundred percent sure that you’re ready to fully ignore the emotion bit. One-night stands hold a no-emotion rule, if you’re free of them; you’re ready to get some.

#2 You’re absolutely sure about your expectations

Let’s face it, one-night stands, in plain words, mean CASUAL sex. So if you’re up for something that is as casual as getting up and going home after the jig is up (no pun intended) you’re ready for it. Even if you experience a hint of jitters or doubt, do not get into it.

#3 Adventure is what you’re looking for

It goes without saying, one-night stands are adventurous. They are not like a backpacking or hiking activity, but you might end up exploring things you never knew. YES, that happens. Ready to explore some downtown adventure? If the answer is yes, take the hint and start working.

#4 You’re getting out of an emotional rollercoaster and need a distraction

We all know that getting out of a deep and emotional relationship isn’t easy. If you’re dealing with something that is over and is still causing a stir in your brain, get the much-needed distraction from a hookup. Not just us, many studies have also proven the fact that one-night stands are a natural coping mechanism for breakups or even other emotional turmoils. However, please keep in mind that these are a casual distraction, do not confuse them for a relationship.

#5 You’re looking for a change

Everyone needs a small change once in a while. Whether it’s having a relationship or the lack of it, one-night stands can help. Getting physically close to someone makes your body feel a rush of hormones that have been known to uplift spirits and mood.

#6 You think double standards are BS, if a man can do it so can a woman!

For some reason, we have been tuned into thinking that one-night stands are fine for men but not for women. Well, that, is, BULL****! If a man can get out of something without giving two hoots to any feelings, so can a woman. Mutual consensus and body needs should not care about what the society thinks. The society doesn’t have to live with your choices, you have to, make yours!

January 11, 2016
The best and worst looks from the Filmfare Pre-Awards Party 2016

The awards season is upon us and how. After the many red carpets the Filmfare red carpet is here and we are thrilled to say the least. The Filmfare Pre-Awards Party was held recently and we’ve rounded up the best and worst looks from the red carpet so far. Take a look.

1) Sonam Kapoor in Michael Costello

As always, Sonam Kapoor dazzled the red carpet in a black Michael Costello gown with makeup and hair done to perfection.

2) Bhumi Pednekar in separates by Roshni Chopra and AM:PM

Ditching the gowns and the dresses was actress Bhumi Pednekar in separates. Surprisingly, she made separates work that are normally hard to carry, and looked stunning.

3) Aditi Rao Hydari in a power suit

Giving us another fresh look on the red carpet was Aditi Rao Hydari donning a power suit by Encrustd. Here styling, makeup, hair everything was dot on point.

4) Radhika Apte in Neha Taneja

Wearing a brocade dress by Neha Taneja was Radhika Apte. We’re not sure if it were the puffed sleeves or the gold footwear, but the dress didn’t quite stand out for us. A leaner silhouette would’ve flattered her beauty more. What say?

5) Sonakshi Sinha in Zara Umrigar, yet again

Donning a crop top and skirt combo by Zara Umrigar was Sonakshi Sinha. While we love the outfit on her, we’re not sure if the styling and the footwear choice did her justice. This would be a no for us, what about you?

6) Athiya Shetty in Philipp Plein

Another black gown sighting, Athiya Shetty looked rather bland. We’re not sure if it’s her attitude that’s dragging down the look but the overall effect of the otherwise great outfit just didn’t work.

Pictures: Viral Bhayani

January 11, 2016
Unusual ways to spend your time online

In recent years the internet has seen usage like never before, with more and more people getting online each year. In fact, a recent UN survey suggested more than three billion people across the world now have internet access.

It stands to reason if you’re reading this then the internet is probably a big part of your everyday life, whether you use it for work or leisure, or even just for staying in touch with family and friends.

But are you making the most of your time online? Many people do not take advantage of the full array of sites on offer, sticking to comfort zones such as Twitter or Facebook.

So, with this in mind, we have put together a list of ways you can maximise your time online. Some are interesting, some are just silly, but they’re all worth a look.

#1 Egosurf

More commonly known as ‘Googling yourself’. Type your name into Google and everybody’s favourite search engine will instantly bring up a list of everything related to your name. Sure, it might not be all about you, but it’s always fun to see what the other John Smith of Sydney, Australia is doing lately.

Source: “google” (CC BY-SA 2.0) by  FindYourSearch

#2 Learn how to cook/bake

Cooking and baking has always had a home online but recently it has seen a surge in popularity thanks to social media apps like Snapchat, and YouTube, with channels like Sorted Food and Tastemade gathering a huge following. So, instead of just talking about that moussaka you want to make, go ahead and do it!

Source: “Mmm… baked penne” (CC BY 2.0) by  jeffreyw

#3 Research your genealogy

You’ve always talked about finding out if you’re related to royalty, and now the internet has made it easier than ever, with sites like Ancestry.co.uk and FindMyPast just a click away.

#4 Place a bet

Thanks to the internet and smartphone apps, online betting is easier than it has ever been. Whatever your game is, whether it be football, tennis or horse racing, you can try your luck at any number of online bookmakers, with many even offering an introductory free bet.

Source: “…almost there…” (CC BY 2.0) by  sashafatcat

#5 Test your emotional intelligence

Emotional intelligence is your capacity to be aware of, control, and express your emotions, as well as how empathetic you are in friendships and relationships. It may not be something you have thought about before, but it’s certainly an interesting thing to discover, and it’s easy to do with this free quiz.

#6 Find out the Bacon number of your favourite celebrity

This one may fall into the ‘silly’ category, but it’s still a novel little hidden feature of Google. A play on the idea of six degrees of separation, or the idea everyone in the world is connected by no more than six acquaintances or links, a celebrity’s Bacon number indicates how many degrees they are from actor Kevin Bacon.

For example, Brad Pitt and Kevin Bacon appeared in the movie Sleepers, which makes Brad’s number 1. To find out, simply google the celebrity’s name followed by ‘Bacon number’. Pointless, but fun!

Source: “Kevin Bacon” (CC BY-SA 2.0) by  Gage Skidmore

January 8, 2016
Looks like we will be seeing Deepika Padukone with Vin Diesel in xXx: The Return of Xander Cage

A picture of Deepika Padukone and Vin Diesel surfaced in December 2015 and needless to say speculation of her acting in the Fast & Furious franchise began. While nothing was confirmed by Deepika herself, many rumours made rounds until Twitter came to rescue.

pic.twitter.com/UilTXaEqP7

— Deepika Padukone (@deepikapadukone) December 4, 2015

And it’s not Fast & Furious but xXx: The Return of Xander Cage that Deepika will be starring in. It has been confirmed by director D. J. Caruso himself. Take a look at this tweet to get all your answers.

The journey begins. Loving my cast https://t.co/JB41GAF3Xz — D.j. Caruso (@Deejaycar) January 2, 2016

What’s more, iMDb has also included Deepika’s name in the full cast and crew for the movie.

January 7, 2016
Fitoor’s first song is out and you’ll just have to watch the video to see how amazing it is!

Aditya Roy Kapur and Katrina Kaif’s upcoming movie ‘Fitoor’ has been making headlines ever since its trailer came out and now there’s more adding to the anticipation. Fitoor’s first song video ‘Yeh Fitoor Mera’ was launched recently and can we just say “deep breaths everyone”?

Amit Trivedi has done an amazing job on the music so far and lending his voice to Aditya Roy Kapur’s character ‘Noor’ in the song is none other than Arijit Singh. It’s hard to imagine a song sung by Arijit Singh not doing well and if you add Kat and ARK to the visuals, you’ll see magic. Take a look at the video.

January 7, 2016
Priyanka Chopra wins the Favourite Actress in a New TV series award at the People’s Choice Awards in LA

Priyanka Chopra just keeps giving us new reasons to feel proud of her and this time it’s the People’s Choice Award that she bagged for her performance in the action-thriller show ‘Quantico’. Yes, you read that right, we were elated enough to find out about her international nomination but this is just giving us the chills.

I am so fortunate!Thank U to everyone who voted for me at the #PCAs! My #PCManiacs-I am nothing without you!Big love pic.twitter.com/Omg31wG7oa

— PRIYANKA (@priyankachopra) January 7, 2016

Spotted in a two tone sequin dress by Vera Wang, PeeCee dazzled the red carpet in Los Angeles.

International vibes! @priyankachopra at the #peopleschoiceawards 2016 in @verawanggang and @jimmychoo #smokin #chicspots #fashion #priyankachopra

A photo posted by Chic-a-thon #chicspots (@chic_a_thon) on Jan 6, 2016 at 9:18pm PST

Take a look at her acceptance speech from the awards ceremony.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pynQMUJzjJ0

January 7, 2016
Airport spotting: Priyanka Chopra’s airport style is going to change the way you travel

Out of all the celeb spotting, airport pictures are our favourite because they provide actual wearable outfit inspiration. Also, it is amazing to see how comfortable clothes can be worn fashionably, isn’t it? We recently spotted PeeCee at the airport looking fab, as always, in a leather jacket and high-top shoes. This all black ensemble doesn’t just make for a perfect travel outfit but also a great weekend outfit. Take a look at the pictures and get your outfit inspiration.

Pictures: Viral Bhayani

January 6, 2016
In pictures: Katrina Kaif, Aditya Roy Kapur and Tabu at Fitoor’s trailer launch

Fitoor’s trailer has us drooling already. It isn’t enough that Aditya Roy Kapur is finally back on screen but can we take a moment to bow down to THAT bod? Thank you!

No prices for guessing, Tabu is definitely stealing the show in the trailer as ‘Begum’ and is giving us a little throwback moment to her act from the movie Haider. Apart from ARK’s irrefutably hot body (did we mention that already?), Kat is back as ‘Firdaus’ and is looking beautiful as ever. A special mention here for Amit Trivedi’s background score that is very different from his usual style and we love it.

The movie had a very successful trailer launch yesterday and here are the pictures from the event.

Pictures: Viral Bhayani

January 5, 2016
Christmas banter at The Imperial, New Delhi

Christmas is the best part of winter. It’s not just the decorations and the gifts but the food that makes this festival what it is. If you’re looking for a place that is a treat to your eyes and your taste buds look no further. The Imperial, New Delhi is all set to give your Christmas cravings the much-needed love. La baguette, the hotel’s French Patisserie is featuring an exclusive Christmas spread till the end of the month and it is a foodie’s paradise. Here’s everything you need to know about out experience of the Christmas Banter at The Imperial Hotel in New Delhi.

Walk into The Imperial Hotel at Janpath and you’ll be greeted by a beautiful Christmas tree that sets the festivities right in. The indulgent buffet was decked with Christmas decorations complete with gingerbread house, stollen, traditional plum cake, Christmas pudding, macaroons, chicken and leek pies, scones among many other offerings.

Our favourites from the spread were the Christmas pudding with brandy sauce, tuna and olive sandwiches, mini creamy chicken sliders, lamb mince pie, chicken and leek pie and the spinach and ricotta quiche. The spread was prepared with extra ordinary care, mixing respect for tradition with a penchant for excellence and the conviction to try new techniques and ingredients.

Trying out the buffet in itself was an overwhelming experience but Chef Prem Kumar Pogakula’s live cookout took it many notches up. He prepared 2-minutes mug cakes (you’ll find the recipe appended below) in a microwave and offered the easy recipe to everyone for their friends and family. The showstopper of the evening was definitely the ‘Baked Alaska’ dessert, made with baked ice cream, egg white and brandy that was set on fire.

Must try the #BakedAlaska Dessert from the #ChristmasSpread at @imperialdelhi #ChristmasBanter #theimperialxmasgoodies #labaguette #theatrium #splendidofferingsattheimperial

A video posted by Trendspotters TV (@trendspotterstv) on Dec 23, 2015 at 10:03pm PST

The Christmas spread at The Christmas Banter is available for guests, at ‘La baguette’- The Imperial’s French Patisserie, till end of December 2015. For more information contact La Baguette at 41116630.

December 24, 2015