Mumbai-based filmmaker Payal Kapadia returned to the Cannes Film Festival this year as a jury member, not only celebrating cinema but also fashion with her understated yet sophisticated sense of style. Only last year, Kapadia’s film ‘All We Imagine As Light’ won the Grand Prix at Cannes Film Festival. With all eyes on her this time around, the filmmaker, whose international accolades are testament to her cinematic excellence, appeared at the photocall in a unique avatar that was still the filmmaker just being herself. This is an aspect of her personality that Mumbai-based designer Payal Khandwala not only understands but knows how to translate into statement ensembles. It is no surprise then that Kapadia donned an outfit by the designer’s label for the jury photocall on the opening day of Cannes 2025 on May 13. The handwoven silk ensemble, which was styled by Indrakshi Pattanaik, featured a structured yet fluid red skirt, and a relaxed-fit blue shirt. It was one of two ensembles she pulled off on the day – the other was by the label Rishta by Arjun Saluja. Payal Kapadia (second from left) in an ensemble by Payal Khandwala during the photocall on opening day of Cannes 2025 (Pic: AFP) Deconstructing Payal Kapadia’s look Talking to mid-day about the look, Khandwala reveals, “It is handwoven silk, in our signature jewel colours. It has structure but also drape, and the sheen makes it luxurious, dramatic even, but in a very subtle way. The colours just so happened to be the colours of the French flag. But that was more a happy coincidence than a strategy.” The outfit perfectly captured Kapadia’s fuss-free outlook towards fashion. “She picked what she responded to, a bold but minimal, architectural silhouette, that was strong but also comfortable,” the Mumbai-based designer states. Interestingly, this is not the first time that the two collaborated for a global event. Kapadia had worn a black silk jumpsuit by Khandwala’s label at the Golden Globes Awards earlier this year. As cinema and fashion go hand-in-hand at global awards shows and film festivals, the designer reveals a side of Kapadia that many may not know. She says, “Payal knows what she wants, she has clarity, and it was refreshing to hear she doesn’t care too much about fashion. This made her an instant fit for us. She is warm and easy-going and had other priorities, which she didn’t conflate with her red carpet appearance and that was a breath of fresh air. She’s talented and quietly confident, so it was rather easy to collaborate with her.” It was easy because Khandwala says she is a designer who likes stillness, especially in a world full of visual clutter and noise. “It’s nice to pause and slow down. Now perhaps, more than ever before. Both personally and professionally, I would pick a whisper over a shout every single time. It’s how I like to live my life, how I like to dress, and our clothes reflect that,” she expresses. Women designing for women While Kapadia and Khandwala collaborating seems natural, the latter believes that women designing for women presents an advantage. She explains, “(As women) We know and understand our bodies – what we want to reveal, what we don’t. We have access to our own bodies and psychology each day, this can certainly help us make more informed choices when we design clothes for other women – about how they want to look and feel, how they think and how they want to be perceived. This is our differentiator – clothes that are a bit more considered and have more intent in the most honest way.” It is also why she hopes that the spotlight shines on Indian female fashion designers as celebrities are opting for homegrown labels on global stages, and Kapadia is one such example. Want to style the outfit worn by Payal Kapadia at Cannes? Here are three tips by the designer: 1. Styling it with the shirt buttoned up and an accessory popped under the collar like Payal did is a great option. 2. For a slightly less formal look, one can opt for the shirt buttoned down with long layered brass or silver chains with charms. 3. Just earrings or just an exaggerated cuff would work for those who like the less-is-more aesthetic.
19 May,2025 05:43 PM IST | Mumbai | Raaina JainFrom juicy neon to French tips, summer is the season to experiment with fresh looks and stay in trend for the hot months ahead. Whether you're soaking up the sun, or just living your best iced-latte-on-a-patio life, your nails deserve to be part of the action. And let’s be real—there’s no better time than summer to switch it up and go a little bolder. With those sun-soaked adventures and dips in the pool or ocean comes the challenge of maintaining that perfect manicure. Don’t fret! Mid-day got experts to help you out with the must-try nail trends of summer that are both stunning and are surprisingly easy to achieve at home. Get ready to embrace a summer of chic, low-maintenance nails that stay vibrant and chip-free, no matter where your travels take you. Chic and DIY-friendly nail trends for summer If you are short on time for bi-weekly nail appointments and hour-long nail sessions or prefer going low-maintenance on nails and DIY manicures, that doesn’t mean you choose to go boring with nails either. For the effortless DIY girls who can’t be bothered, Rachna Virdi, founder of House of Nails, helps with nail trends that you can be stylish without being high on maintenance because sometimes the best beauty trick is just keeping it easy. After all, your nails deserve a summer vacation too. Juicy neonEver tried jelly nails? They are super fun, sheer, and chips and regrowth barely show. Go for a short, rounded shape and pick a juicy neon (watermelon pink or lime green). You’ll look like you made an effort—without actually making one. Think pinkThe pink manicure suits every style. It is all about embracing playful and vibrant styles. All shades of pink - pop pink, fuchsia pink, magenta pink, shocking pink, all continue to be popular in summer, offering a fresh and delicate look. Low-key chromeYou’ve seen the flashy chrome look, but this summer it’s way more chill. Think soft lavender chrome, rose gold, or mint shimmer—they look luxe but subtle enough to grow out without screaming “I need a fill.” What’s more, they go with everything. Aura-inspiredAura nails are usually a salon thing, but you can try the vibe with a gradient polish or sponging two colours together. Pro tip: stick to soft, dreamy colours that don’t scream when they chip (think dusty pink, cloud blue, or peach). Minimalist nail artMinimal nail art is still trending, and it is totally DIY-able. Use a trendy polish as your base and dot on tiny stars, or dots or evil eye charm with a toothpick. It’s cute, takes less time, and still looks fresh as it grows out. French tipsA modern take on the classic French manicure. Choose a sheer pink or milky white polish to give that clean, polished French manicure energy—even if it's not. Throw on a quick-dry top coat and you’re done in 10 minutes flat. 7 tips to follow for water-resistant summer manicuresLong, sun-filled days and water-soaked fun are what summer is all about—but they can also be a challenge for your nails. From dips in chlorinated pools to salty ocean splashes and the drying effects of heat, manicures are put to the test. So, how can you keep your nails looking fresh, glossy, and chip-free all season long? Namika Kant, technical expert at Envi Salons shares seven expert-approved nail care tips to make your summer mani last: 1. Choose long-wear formulasOpt for gel polishes or long-lasting lacquers that are specifically designed to resist chipping. Many salons now offer hybrid formulas that give the durability of gel without requiring UV light, making them a summer favourite. 2. Prep your nails A manicure is only as strong as its foundation. Make sure nails are completely clean, dry, and free of oils before applying polish. Gently buff the surface of the nails to help the polish adhere better, and don’t skip the base coat—it acts like double-sided tape between your nail and the colour. 3. Hydrate with cuticle oil everydayHydration is key. Heat and sun can dry out the nail bed, making polish more prone to lifting. Using cuticle oil daily not only keeps the skin around your nails soft but also helps maintain flexibility in the nail plate, reducing the chance of cracks. 4. Avoid hot water right after a manicureAfter getting your nails done, avoid going for hot showers or washing dishes in hot water for at least 12 hours. Heat can weaken the polish bond before it's fully set, especially with regular lacquer. 5. Wear gloves for choresHousehold chores like scrubbing or gardening can be rough on your nails. Wearing gloves not only protects your manicure but also shields your hands from harsh chemicals and overexposure to water. 6. Top up with top coatReapplying a clear top coat every 2 to 3 days can significantly extend the life of your manicure. It adds an extra layer of protection against chips and keeps your polish looking glossy and new. 7. Don’t use your nails as toolsTempting as it is, avoid using your nails to open packages, cans, or scratch off stickers. This can cause micro-cracks or even full-on breaks, shortening the life of your manicure. By following these practical summer tips, you can enjoy vibrant, chip-resistant nails that hold up beautifully against the elements—all season long. Kant rounds up with an advice for water babies, “If you’re spending extended time in the pool or ocean, consider shorter nails. They’re less prone to breakage and easier to maintain while still making a trendy statement—especially when painted in the season’s top shades like sorbet orange, electric lilac, and seafoam green.”
19 May,2025 02:39 PM IST | Mumbai | Maitrai AgarwalSeveral Indian celebrities like Payal Kapadia, Nitanshi Goel and Chhaya Kadam have made striking appearances at the ongoing Cannes Film Festival 2025 so far. Among them, Jacqueline Fernandez who made an appearance as an honouree at the ‘Women in Cinema’ initiative by the Red Sea Film Foundation, was a shining example. Apart from the honour, Fernandez stole the spotlight for another reason – her powerful style. Sharing pictures from a panel discussion under the initiative, Fernandez wrote on Instagram, “Power packed panel of ‘Women in Cinema’. We discussed our moments of challenges joy and dreams together. It’s amazing how cinema can unite us all. Wearing @akok.in” View this post on Instagram A post shared by Jacqueline Fernandez (@jacquelienefernandez) The Bollywood star looked radiant in a collared white shirt dress by Anamika Khanna’s prêt line AK|OK. While the sleek silhouette turned heads, the body ornament made of silver chains that stole the spotlight. The arm cuffs further added detailing and style to the look. Fernandez, who is known for films such as Kick, Race 2, and Dishoom, among others, paired the outfit with black pumps, and minimal jewellery that included a bracelet watch, statement ring and earrings. Her hair was tied in a neat and sleek braid. Jacqueline Fernandez’s other looks at Cannes 2025 Interestingly, this wasn’t the only white ensemble she donned at the event. Sharing another set of pictures on Instagram earlier, she had written, “Cannes Day 1 with @redseafilm. Delighted to be an honouree at the women in cinema initiative that champions female storytellers.” View this post on Instagram A post shared by Jacqueline Fernandez (@jacquelienefernandez) The look sees her wearing a pantsuit, featuring a white full-sleeved shirt and straight-fit ivory trousers. Fernandez added shine to the monochrome look with a gilded corset and accessorised it with steel-toned pumps and pearl earrings. She left her hair open, styled in a soft-wavy texture --- all of it embodying style and sophistication, and understated glamour. Interestingly, while Fernandez chose white for the panel discussion, she opted for an extravagant red gown at the ‘Women in Cinema’ gala held at Cannes 2025 for the initiative. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Jacqueline Fernandez (@jacquelienefernandez) The gown featured a structured corset and a cape with floral detailing. She accessorised the look with a diamond neckpiece and earrings, and tied her hair in a soft bun, that made heads turn.
16 May,2025 03:36 PM IST | France | mid-day online correspondentMumbai filmmaker and Cannes 2024 winner Payal Kapadia has made her first appearance at 2025 Cannes Film Festival. Known for her effortlessly elegant fashion, the 'All We Imagine As Light' director returned to the French Riviera as a jury member. Dressed in a comfortable blue and red ensemble, the Mumbai filmmaker is seen wearing a loose-fitting shirt and a bright red ankle-length skirt. She wore Indian fashion designer Payal Khandwala's look and was styled by Indrakshi Pattnaik. While that was at first, she walked the red carpet in a grey suit designed by Arjun Saluja, showcasing two different sides of her on the opening night. Also Read: Cannes 2025: ‘No nudity on red carpet’, ‘no sneakers’ and other interesting rules
14 May,2025 10:16 AM IST | France | mid-day online correspondentIndian actor Ram Charan’s custom-made ensemble by Shantnu & Nikhil, first unveiled on the Oscars 2023 red carpet, has now been immortalised at Madame Tussauds London. Being a world icon, it also marks a powerful moment of pride for Indian fashion and cinema on the global stage. The look — a tailored, military-inspired masterpiece — is a study in quiet strength and symbolic storytelling. The key design elements include a signature chakra buttons, symbolising unity and resilience, a Nehru collar, evoking heritage and honour, and structured pocket detailing, inspired by Indian Army silhouettes Originally worn during the historic rise of 'RRR', the ensemble was more than red carpet couture — it was a statement of identity, discipline, and understated patriotism. Now enshrined among global legends, it reflects an India that is rooted, refined, and ready for the world.
13 May,2025 08:26 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentIndian lifestyle content creators Sarah Sarosh and Simran Balar Jain will make their debut on the red carpet at 2025 Cannes Film Festival. At a time when Indian content creators are attracting attention around the world, Sarah and Simran are some of quite a few who will feature in this year's edition. Sarah, who is a beauty and lifestyle influencer, and the founder of Impulse Coffees, aims to represent the evolving space of Indian beauty creators who have built strong communities around trust, storytelling, and purpose. With a following of over 1.8 million across social media, Sarah’s work as a content creator has steadily expanded into entrepreneurship, reflecting her journey. Interestingly, she started creating videos during her teens in her bedroom at 17, and every year, she would recreate celebrity makeup looks from Cannes, and now has made her way to the big stage. On the other hand, Simran Balar Jain is not only a digital creator but also the founder of sexual wellness brand UnBound, and her work addresses everything from periods and pleasure to gender inclusivity. She is known for breaking taboos around women’s health, hygiene, and sexuality, and is among the few Indian creators representing conversations around sex education, body image, and mental wellness on the big stage.This year, the film festival has stated that nudity will not be allowed on the red carpet, or anywhere the festival premises. It is only one of the requirements from attendees this year apart from the 'no sneakers' rule.2025 Cannes Film Festival is set to take place in Cannes in France from May 13 to May 24. Some of India's biggest names including Aishwarya Rai Bachchan will walk the red carpet. While Alia Bhatt was supposed to make her debut, she has now opted out due to the ongoing India-Pakistan tensions. In a first, Mumbai director and Cannes 2024 winner Payal Kapadia is also on the jury for this edition.
13 May,2025 06:35 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe 2025 Cannes Film Festival is all set to take place in the city of Cannes from May 13 to May 24. The theme for this year is celebrating the theme is ‘Lights, Beauty and Action’. While the festival celebrates films, there are so many unique elements to it that are celebrated every year and are hard to miss including the red carpet and the fashionable looks that every celebrity pulls off. Interestingly, there are many aspects that have changed this year. Here are unique facts to know about Cannes 2025, the 78th edition of the festival: ‘No nudity’ After many celebrities have pulled off some bold naked looks over the years across festivals, the Cannes 2025 dress code has banned nudity on the red carpet or anywhere within the premises. The festival website says, “for decency reasons”. While the rules are in place, will there be people who break them? We will just have to wait and see. Beyond that, they are also not allowing voluminous dresses with a large train, especially those that make it difficult for the passage of guests. Suits and dresses For the Grand Theatre Lumière gala screenings, the requirement is evening wear that includes a long dress or tuxedo. People can also wear “a little black dress”, a cocktail dress, a dark-coloured pantsuit, a dressy top with black pants, according to the Cannes 2025 website. People can also wear a black or navy-blue suit with bowtie or dark-coloured tie. ‘No sneakers’While sneakers are always in fashion, the Cannes has said sneakers aren’t allowed during the screenings but instead people can wear elegant shoes and sandals with or without a heel. Firsts for India Alia Bhatt’s debut This year will also see Alia Bhatt make her debut at Cannes 2025 as L'Oréal Paris’ brand ambassador along with their longstanding brand ambassador Aishwarya Rai Bachchan. It also marks the beauty brand’s 28th year at the festival. Bhatt will be joined by other global ambassadors including Eva Longoria, Viola Davis, Jane Fonda, Aja Naomi King, Andie MacDowell, Simone Ashley, Elle Fanning, Bebe Vio, and Yseult. Payal Kapadia’s debut on the juryAfter winning praise and an award for ‘All We Imagine As Light’ at Cannes 2024, Mumbai’s very own filmmaker Payal Kapadia is set to be on the jury at Cannes 2025.
12 May,2025 07:29 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentIndian cricketer Virat Kohli, one of the most loved sportspersons in the history of the game, has announced his retirement from Test cricket on May 12, drawing curtains on a glorious 14-year career in the cricket format. While his retirement has upset many fans, others have been paying heartfelt tributes and expressing gratitude for his contribution to the format, and the sport in general. Kohli’s batting prowess has left an indelible mark on fans of the game, but his impact reaches many aspects beyond the game. The 36-year-old’s fashion choices have often shaped trends that have automatically made him a style icon. He is also regarded as one of the most stylish and well-groomed sportspersons in modern-day cricket. For those who remember the cricketer from his early days, Kohli has gone through a massive fashion transformation over the years, swapping his laid-back sense of style with sophisticated dressing that makes him look really sharp. Virat Kohli’s fashion evolution In 2008, when Kohli started his cricket career, he had a laid-back, casual, boy-next-door style. He would often don the classic look of denim jeans and tee during public appearances. By 2011, he had started experimenting with his fashion choices, sporting formal suits and outfits that suited his personality. Parallelly, he kept opting for different hairstyles – one of the most trendsetting aspects of his style. As his cricketing career took off, there was no looking back, both in the game and his fashion choices. Kohli’s style evolved from basic to effortlessly sharp and sophisticated. Decoding Virat Kohli’s style From formals to Indian ethnic wear, from street casual to vacation fits, there’s no look that Kohli cannot pull off with finesse. The cricketer is often seen embracing, and acing, relaxed outfits. From hoodies, denims, tees and sneakers to athleisure or sportswear, his casual style range is worth taking fashion inspiration from. But that’s not it! Kohli can go from sporty to suave effortlessly. From classic hues to tailored fits, his sophisticated formal looks have often attracted eyeballs. However, the most interesting aspect of his personal style is his experimentation with Indian ethnic wear. While a simple kurta pajama can also do the trick if styled innovatively, Kohli has often opted for different styles of traditional outfits like bandhgala jackets and angrakha-style kurtas. The cricketer’s style stands out even beyond his outfits. From his beard and hairstyle to his tattoos and ear piercings, each aspect makes him a trendsetting fashion icon. However, while the range of his off-field style is impressive, fans may agree that what suits him the best is the Indian cricket team jersey.
12 May,2025 05:57 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentAlong with the likes of Priyanka Chopra, Shah Rukh Khan, Kiara Advani, Diljit Dosanjh and Isha Ambani, even Natasha Poonawalla walked the red carpet at Met Gala 2025 on May 5. While Dosanjh gave a nod to his heritage when he opted for a traditional look, Poonawalla also showcased Indian textile craft on the world stage as she donned a Manish Malhotra-ensemble created from Parsi Gara saris. The entrepreneur has often made fashion statements, with her previous appearances at the Met Gala also receiving considerable attention. It was no different this time as Poonawalla looked nothing short of regal in an exquisite outfit that blended culture with couture, as it was an ode to her Parsi roots. The highlight of the outfit was a sculpted purple fishtail skirt, which was made using two vintage Gara saris – one of which was a century-old relic restored from Manish Malhotra’s archives. The ensemble also featured a lace bralette with scalloped pearls and a corset-cummerbund. It was accompanied by a sharply-tailored black Gara jacket lined in imperial purple. Adding poetic drama to the ensemble, she completed the look with a cravat at the collar, by Atelier Biser. View this post on Instagram A post shared by MANISH MALHOTRA (@manishmalhotraworld) What is the Parsi Gara? Gara embroidery is deeply rooted in Parsi culture and textile heritage. It features intricate designs and distinct motifs, often inspired by nature. Due to the immense detailing required, it is a labour-intensive craft. Other Indian designers at Met Gala 2025 Interestingly, Poonawalla wasn't the only one to wear a Manish Malhotra ensemble, even Coco Jones opted for an outfit by the celebrated Indian designer. Another designer whose creation found a place at the fashion extravaganza is Sabyasachi Mukherjee, as Shah Rukh Khan made his debut with the former’s design. While Kiara Advani wore Gaurav Gupta's creation, Isha Ambani donned a signature Anamika Khanna ensemble. Met Gala, which is regarded as fashion’s biggest night, unfolded at The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, and showcased some of the most fashionable moments on the red carpet.
07 May,2025 10:43 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentWhen tech entrepreneur made her debut at the Met Gala in 2024, she was the mystery guest who immediately turned heads with her butterfly dress and kinetic sleeves. Returning to Met Gala 2025, one of fashion’s biggest events this year, Patel managed to surprise guests once again, but this time with a robotic dog, that she brought along with her on the red carpet. After wearing a custom Iris Van Apfel with kinetic sleeves styled by Law Roach last year, this time around Patel wore a custom ensemble by American fashion designer Thom Browne for the gala at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York; this was accompanied by a mechanical spinal cord by Lisa Jiang and Timothy Bowl. She paired the ensemble with a hat by Miodrag Gubernic, and shoes by Rene Caovilla – to complete the entire look. While her ensemble was eye-catching, it was the grey robotic dog ‘Vector’, who came along with her that turned heads. It was made by MIT and was inspired by Browne’s dog by the same name. The dog, which converted into a bag, was accompanied by a 1,000-carat emerald-cut diamond leash on it, that turned into a sling when she put it on her shoulder. The Met Gala 2025 also saw Indian actors Shah Rukh Khan, Diljit Dosanjh and Kiara Advani walk on the red carpet. While SRK came in an all-black ensemble, Diljit was at his fashionable best looking all royal in his all-white ensemble. On the other hand, pregnant Kiara paid tribute to her child with a bejewelled umbilical cord connected to the framed heart on her bold gilded breastplate, a creation by Gaurav Gupta. It wasn’t only the stars on the blue carpet, but the latter itself that has its roots in the southern Indian state of Kerala as it was made by Alleppey-based design house Neytt by Extraweave, for the third year in a row. The 63,000-square-foot hand-painted blue carpet with a motif designed by artist Cy Gavin was accented by strewn daffodils, cascading floral barricades, and installations that shimmered with water and mirrored the hanging blooms above.
06 May,2025 07:01 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentAs Indian stars Shah Rukh Khan and Diljit Dosanjh walked the red carpet at Met Gala 2025, even Kiara Advani, who is currently pregnant, also made an appearance at The Metropolitan Museum of Art earlier today. Celebrating the 'Superfine: Tailoring Black Style' theme, Kiara embraced it a custom Gaurav Gupta couture creation — a sculptural black gown featuring a bold gilded breastplate that had a framed heart, adorned with crystals and ghungroos (bells). The most interesting part of her ensemble was a custom bejeweled umbilical cord, which was by Outhouse Jewellery, glistening to showcase her journey of motherhood that has only just begun. Designed to tether her heart to her unborn child, the cord wasn’t just ornamentation visual ode to motherhood and a bond that begins before birth. Completing the look were Koko Bugs—sacred emblems of metamorphosis—nestled into her ears and fingers, and a cross of Keshi pearls on her hand.
06 May,2025 04:33 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
