The Brunette Diaries

Contemplating an arranged marriage?

You have waited for Mr. Right for too long and now your parents are pressurising you to look at some eligible bachelors they have in store for you. An arranged marriage is on the horizon and you can’t decide whether that indeed is the right option for you. So here’s an article that may help you decide whether an arranged marriage is the right way to go.

Full family support

An arranged marriage has family support. Mostly, families have prior meetings and then decide compatibility before bringing the two together. Thus, the family gives all the support since they have permitted everything beforehand.

Understand that it is a risk

Everything can be hunky dory at first; but remember, once personalities surface you may risk the possibility of lack of compatibility. It is a risk you should be willing to take. Hypocrisy is common when it comes to arranged marriage since nobody wants to face rejection.

Financial security is greater

Since families are involved there isn’t a risk of not being able to pay for your marriage and stand on your own feet after it. First of all, your family will make sure he is earning enough to take care of you even before they decide he is right for you to meet.

You have to live with your decision

You cannot blame someone else for the decision you have made. For instance, if the proposal has been brought by your parents, it is not imperative that you answer with a yes. It is your choice. Do not live to blame someone else for the choices which you make. Therefore, take your time and do what your heart tells you.

It is an inescapable fact that an arranged marriage has a higher element of risk than a love marriage. If you trust your instinct then an arranged marriage is alright, but do not live to regret a decision you have made.

Mistakes that can ruin new love

Comfort levels differ in the initial stages of love. Understanding may be present in the relationship, but being able to perceive problems and personalities early, may be harder than you expect. Usually, couples tend to ruin new love by getting into things too quick. Let us look at a few common mistakes that couples make in new love:

Let your feelings develop and do not force them

Asking for help too often

You can ask him for help once in a while, but if you do it too often, you may make him question your intentions. He may believe you are taking advantage of him. Do not behave like he is your husband already, this will scare him away.

Double dates

Double dating can be fun to show off your new boyfriend. But if you keep doing this, he may misunderstand you. He may believe that you want him around just as eye candy.

Overdressing

Do not be a diva every time you meet him. Men perceive this as fake. In a new relationship, it is important to be yourself and not fake so he is not scared away.

Cribbing

Usually, women have a habit of setting things straight right at the beginning of the relationship so that they are not taken for granted later. Men are repulsed by women who crib about things they do even without knowing them that well.

White lies

At the beginning of a relationship, it is important to build trust steadily. You cannot expect him to trust you from the word go. As you build this trust, even the small white lies that you tell can ruin this trust.

Physical involvement

Be slow when it comes to committing to certain things. Do not be hasty when it comes to being physically involved. Be patient, show that you love him and not his body.

When it comes to new relationships, be sure to take things slowly. For you do not know what you rush in to.

Tips to keep your kitchen healthy and clean

Ants, mouldy residue, dirty sink, dirty stove, and dirty food cabinets are some of the ways in which your kitchen can seem ugly. Usually, unless you have enough time on your hands, keeping your kitchen clean is not on the top of your agenda for the day. However, kitchen cleanliness is of utmost importance as it is the same place where your food comes from. Here are a few tips to keep your kitchen clean and protect against the following problems:

Let keeping your kitchen clean be at the top of your agenda

Ants

Ants can be a severe menace in your kitchen and they can infest the place if not taken care of in time. Usually, a solution of boric acid and water works like magic. Mix a tablespoon of boric acid powder in a cup of water and put the solution in a spray bottle. Spray the solution on the trail of ants, along skirtings and even in the corners of kitchen cabinets.

Spoiling food

If you aren’t used to keeping your food in the fridge all the time, don’t forget that food gets spoilt faster in the summer than in the winter thanks to the excess heat. Hence, it is important to keep your kitchen cool. Opt for a window covering that prevents harsh sunlight from coming in the house.

Trash

Usually, you are not required to change your trash-can linen every day; but in the summer, leftover food tends to rot faster. If you don’t change your trash-can linen, it can leave your kitchen with a foul odour.

Cleaning

Dusting of all the kitchen appliances is one more necessary job. Your refrigerator, microwave, food cabinets and your gas stove are places you must keep dust and grease free as this can be a harbour for bacteria.

Mould

The kitchen platform can develop mouldy residue if not cleaned well. Therefore, it is important to give it a wash before you turn off the lights each night.

Make sure you do all you can in your space of time and effort to keep your kitchen clean. Do not overlook this as it is imperative for healthy and clean food, and it lowers the risk of any disease.

This year, flirt with the skirt!

One piece of clothing that can easily flatter any woman’s body is a skirt. If you want to flaunt your vibrant personality (and the sexy derriere), your love for unique fashion, and captivating creativity, then skirts are the way to go! What’s more is that you get a whole range of styles and sizes to choose from. Maxi, midi or mini, peplum or pleats, whatever you choose, striking a balance is essential. If you’re still wondering on how to sport the trend, don’t worry. We’ve got a few interesting combinations that you must try.

Here’s how you can wear the flair this year…

Maxi skirt

It’s no wonder the maxi skirt continues to be a major trend after making a splash seasons ago. This closet staple works year-round, but feels most at home in our summer wardrobes—lightweight fabrics and pretty prints go hand-in-hand with the super-feminine style. Go for floral printed ones in pastel shades and pair them with bold colours on top. Keep the accessories to a bare minimum.

Pleated skirt

Pleated skirts might have a school dress feel but truth is that, this style flatters most body types. It glides as you walk, leading the eye away from problem areas. Choose a fabric with an easy drape, like silk crepe, wear a crop top and your favourite boots, which will clash with the skirt’s ladylike vibe and give you a sexy new image.

Denim skirts

Denim skirts are back in style in a big way. You may have noticed the comeback of this fabric in a variety of styles and the best part is that you can wear it perpetually all the time. Denim skirts look great on weekends, as a cute date outfit, or even when paired with tailored tops and great accessories, to wear to work. Get a get black washed pencil style denim skirt and wear it with your favourite checked shirt, tying your hair in a sexy loose bun.

Midi skirts

The midi skirt has been making a comeback for several years now. Midis are the one skirt style to try this season. Wear watercolour prints and bold blooms to make them a versatile garment. Our fashion forecasters tell us this skirt trend is here to stay.

Minis

Ladies, it’s time you wax your legs and slather on some moisturizer, truncated hem lengths are back in vogue this season. Choose neon colours like oranges and yellows and team them up with chiffon shirts. Add some bling in the accessories for an uber cool look.

Peplum Skirt

There’s a lot of flounce for the ounce here, so select a soft material for your peplum skirt. Rule of thumb to rock this look is to wear it with a full top that runs into the peplum and wear your sexy peep-toes or strappy heels to complete the feminine look.

Skorts

The high-waist trend has been around since the 1940s and we are so glad it will never leave! This trend is best carried off in skorts – skirts meets shorts. Skorts are actually shorts, but with one little piece of fabric that disguises them as skirts.

Hairstyles That Can Make You Look Stylish Instantly!

Whenever we need to go out to a party or a function, one of the major things that we are apprehensive about is “How will my hair look?”, “How are they supposed to look?” Here we dole out some tips to you ladies so that you flaunt what you’ve got! So, glam up and look your best.

Before you embark on a mission to change your hairstyle, ensure that it is always well conditioned, and don’t forget that conditioning hair serum – it is a saviour! Now, choose your style!

Up-dos

Opt for a deep side parting, start at the left temple and sweep across to the right ear. You should go for one of them, either go for a super slick wet-look up-do or leave a few strands loose on your face for a soft, dainty feminine feel.

Mermaid Waves

Mermaid curls look extremely casual and sexy

This is good news for all the lazy ones! The latest trend this year is laid-back, fuss-free mermaid waves. The more randomly placed and tousled the better! All you have to do is plait your damp hair and sleep.

Short hair

Bob cut is back and how! This cut has ruled the roost on the ramp this year, and more and more girls out there are opting for this easy-to-maintain look. Try a side part long pixie cut, an undercut inspired by a punk or you can go for a close crop also.

Fringes

Whether you have a short bob cut or a bowl one, you can make a statement from your fringe this year. If you are the one who prefers a soft cut then long fringes will frame your face.

Wet look

The season’s most in look is the wet look and is wearable. Yes, seriously! Spread high shine serum on your hair before styling and go out flaunting that wet look of your hair.

Low ponytail

Abandon bad hair days by mastering the fashion ponytail. Super sleek and secured low at the nape of the neck or brought in front; make a low ponytail and finish with a ‘spritz’ of high gloss hairspray for a chic look.

Main causes of belly fat

Abdominal fat is an issue which most people struggle with. Most people want to look fit and fab, but everyone struggles with that flab around the tummy. Let us look at the main causes of this belly fat:

Improper digestion

Improper digestion will bring about a range of gastrointestinal disorders. Eating at late hours can cause your stomach to bulge and bloat. It is important to take all measures to ensure that you digest your food properly if you want to get rid of belly fat.

Genetics

Genetics play a role in belly fat as well. Some people find it harder to get rid of belly fat than most others because of genetics.

Stress

Several studies say that one can gain abdominal obesity due to stress. When you are stressed, the cortisol hormone is released, which triggers the fat reserve around the belly. At the same time, stress also makes you binge which results in excess fat accumulation.

Slow metabolism

Reduced metabolism rate is one of the main reasons for fat accumulation. When your rate of metabolism is low, you tend to burn lesser calories and hence fat gets stored in the most convenient place, which is your belly.

Alcoholism

Most people proudly talk about their beer bellies. But they know themselves they’d love to live without it. Alcoholism will contribute to higher calorie accumulation in your belly area.

Lack of activity

This is quite an obvious cause of belly fat. You need to involve yourself in some sort of physical activity that is in proportion to your food intake, to make sure you do not develop body fat.

Unhealthy eating

When you eat fatty foods, they accumulate in your belly area quite conveniently. Fast food is normally fried in excess oil and this is one of the main causes of belly fat.

How to lose weight without hitting the gym

Losing weight takes a lot of discipline and determination, whether in the gym or outside it. Some of us just don’t have the time for hitting the gym. Or maybe we are just not a gym-person. So how do we get rid of all the excess fat reserved in our body? Follow these steps to achieve your desired weight without sweating it out.

Smaller meals:

Not all of us are conscious enough to count every calorie, so try to make your meal portions smaller. And bunk the second helping altogether. You can take shorter lunch breaks at work so that you don’t over-eat.

Avoid too much sweet:

If you really need to have a dessert after your meals then try to swap the ice-creams and cakes with a piece of dark chocolate. It’s a healthier option to satisfy your sweet tooth without piling up on the calories.

Move your butt:

Having a sedentary lifestyle can make losing weight very difficult. Take regular breaks every 2 hours to walk around the office. Skip the elevator and start taking the stairs whenever possible. Enrol for a fun weekend dance class. The more you move, the faster you lose that weight.

Sleep:

Sleep is more than just a pretty-making mechanism. Your digestive system is also pumping hard to process your food, metabolizing carbohydrates and breaking down fats. Some studies have linked sleep deprivation to weight problems; so the bottom line is – if you don’t want your ‘bottom’ to grow bigger, hit the sack at the earliest.

Have sex:

That’s right; sex is a great way to shed the extra calories. An average sex session burns 150 to 250 calories per half hour – depending on how hot, flexible and athletic your session was. Now don’t be disheartened even if you aren’t extremely acrobatic in love-making, as sex naturally gets your heart rate up, which in turn improves circulation and burns calories and fat.

Laugh while you still have teeth:

Last but not the least – laugh more! Laughing heartily five times a day has the same beneficial effects as ten minutes on a rowing machine. How great is that!

Bollywood celebrities and expensive gifts

In an industry ruled by the rich and famous, ‘flaunting it’ is not a big deal. They say it isn’t right to put a price tag on a gift, but these gifts are so exorbitant that we couldn’t help but whisper it out loud! Let us take a look at a few expensive, glamorous and flashy gifts showered upon Bollywood celebrities and their loved ones.

Sanjay Dutt

Sanjay gifted his wife Manyata a car which anyone one of us could only dream of – a Rolls-Royce worth Rs 3 crore! Talk about lavish! He also gave his director a 10 lakh rupees watch for doing a great scene in the movie ‘Zanjeer’. Wouldn’t you to stick around this guy?

Shah Rukh Khan

The Baadshah of Bollywood has always been known to be generous. In 2009, SRK gifted an Audi 6 worth Rs 60 lakh to his kids Aryan and Suhana. Generous is something, but this is whoa! Besides this, Shah Rukh has also given lavish cars to his directors and co-actors quite often.

Raj Kundra

Shilpa is one lucky girl! On Valentine’s Day in 2009, Shilpa was presented a 48 carat heart-shaped natural white diamond ring worth a fortune! Raj also gifted her an apartment on the 19^th floor of The Burj Khalifa apartment in Dubai.

Vidhu Vinod Chopra

Vidhu Vinod Chopra was so excited to work with the legendary

Amitabh Bachchan in ‘Eklavya’ that he gifted him a Rolls-Royce worth Rs 3.5 crore.

Siddharth Roy Kapur

Hubby of Bollywood dame Vidya Balan, Siddharth Roy Kapur gifted his dearest wife a high end, luxury, sea facing apartment worth crores of rupees, in the plush Juhu area of Mumbai.

Salman Khan

How can we count out this bold hunk! Any Bollywood list and this man’s name is not going to be overlooked. When it comes to showering expensive gifts, Sallu knows how to do it! When Kareena didn’t take any payment for her item number ‘Fevicol Se’ (Dabangg 2), Salman returned the gesture with a swanky BMW. Sallu also gifted his sister, Alvira, a penthouse and a precious diamond bracelet worth a whopping Rs 1.25 crore.

Bollywood stars and their controversies

Bollywood stars have always been known to flirt with controversy. Bollywood is well-known all around the world for both good and not-so-good reasons. Let us look at the lives of some Bollywood stars and how controversies have embroidered their lives.

Salman Khan

When you have to describe Salman, a word like brash will be close on your mind. Salman first got into controversy in 1998 by hunting an endangered Chinkara, following which he was arrested, but later released on bail. But he continued to play with fire when he drove his car over a footpath where some homeless people were sleeping. This left one dead and three injured and he was charged with a hit and run case.

Saif Ali Khan

Saif Ali Khan is another star who swam in the danger sea once too often. Coming from a royal background, he was bound to get away with things but he faced quite a lot of trouble somehow. In the year 2012, the nawab was with his wife and friends and fell into an argument with an NRI at the Taj hotel and he allegedly brawled with the man and broke his nose. Besides this, Saif was also accused in the same Chinkara hunting case for allegedly being an accomplice of Salman in the act.

Sanjay Dutt

How can anyone forget Sanjay’s famous ‘Munnabhai’ character from the movie ‘Munnabhai M.B.B.S’! Sanjay is allegedly known to have contacts with many such ‘gundas’ like in the movie and has always been surrounded by controversies in his real life.

Shah Rukh Khan

How could we miss out on ‘King Khan’ who was found to be misbehaving with a security official while at the Wankhede stadium in 2012’s edition of IPL. He was also alleged of slapping Farah Khan’s husband Shirish Kunder at a party.

Shiney Ahuja

Shiney Ahuja may not be a very popular name in Bollywood, but found himself in the headlines with some really serious charges of raping his housemaid in the year 2009.

Preity Zinta

If you thought that the leading ladies of Bollywood would miss out, then I’m afraid you’re mistaken. Preity Zinta was the hot topic of B-town when she was alleged to be in an affair with an already married Shekhar Kapur.

Kareena Kapoor

Kareena was always known to be a bold chic. When her MMS was leaked out showing her passionately kissing her then boyfriend Shahid Kapoor, this boiled a lot of gossip.

Shilpa Shetty

Shilpa Shetty made it into this list due to her racism accusation on one of the contestants in the British reality TV show ‘Big Brother’ which became a topic of discussion across India and the UK. Later, Shilpa again got into another controversy when Hollywood star Richard Gere openly kissed the actress.