Daily Horoscope: July 26, 2025 Forecast

Daily Horoscope: July 26, 2025 Forecast

M Hasan    6:01 AM   

Celestial Alignment and Romantic Opportunities

The Moon in Leo is set to align with Venus, creating a celestial duet that emphasizes love and hope. This alignment encourages individuals to open their hearts to new opportunities and let their souls shine brightly. For those born under the signs of Sagittarius, Capricorn, and Aquarius, this cosmic event promises sparks to fly, urging them to embrace their romantic sides and explore potential connections.

This day is also an opportunity for authenticity. The cosmic energy empowers individuals to radiate positivity and confidence, making it easier to influence those around them. As the stars guide us, there are insights and guidance available for each zodiac sign.

Aries: Embracing Charisma and Creativity

For Aries, the Moon and Venus alignment suggests a time of heightened appeal. Individuals may find themselves more magnetic, expressive, and caring. This is an ideal moment for romance, socializing, or discussing new ideas. If spontaneous and theatrical tendencies arise, they should be embraced and enjoyed. Let your natural fire illuminate every room you enter.

Taurus: Comfort and Quality Time

Taurus will feel a strong connection to home, but this doesn’t mean isolation. Instead, it could lead to beautifying living spaces, organizing cozy gatherings, or spending quality time with loved ones. Conversations about comfort and family projects can be insightful. This is a day to indulge in small pleasures that nourish the soul and senses.

Gemini: Socializing and Wit

With the Moon in expressive Leo aligned with Venus in Gemini, Geminis will be great fun to be around. Whether dating, storytelling, or pitching ideas, people will be attentive, and someone might even be smitten. This is a good time for socializing, showcasing wit, and basking in deserved attention. New friendships could blossom during this period.

Cancer: Subtle Power and Intuition

Cancer individuals may not be shouting from the rooftops, but their energy will still attract attention. An understated allure and an enigmatic smile could draw others in. Financial or emotional insights may surface, so trusting intuitive nudges is essential. Music, a beautiful meal, or a heartfelt chat can provide comfort and joy.

Leo: Charisma and Expression

Leo’s natural charisma is amplified as the Moon aligns with Venus in Gemini. Words may seem like pure gold, drawing attention from crowds, friends, or group chats. This is a prime time for self-expression, creativity, and connecting with kindred spirits. Let warmth envelop everyone around you.

Virgo: Insight and Reflection

Virgos will work well behind the scenes today, with words that carry surprising insight. Inspiration may come from solitude or revisiting ideas from a fresh perspective. Professionally, it's an excellent time to showcase skills and impress the right people. Thoughtful compliments can have a significant impact.

Libra: Merging Ideas and Connections

Libras will find the Moon/Venus link perfect for mingling, sharing inspiring ideas, and connecting with admired individuals. Friends and kindred spirits will be drawn to their energy. Conversations will flow with warmth, whether planning a trip, attending an event, or chatting over coffee. Building bridges and spreading positive vibes is key.

Scorpio: Persuasion and Influence

Scorpios will shine today, with their presence and ideas noticed by others. It's a perfect moment to share brilliant ideas, negotiate deals, or charm through tricky situations. Using words effectively, they can be persuasive and impossible to ignore.

Sagittarius: Adventure and Spontaneity

Sagittarius’ adventurous spirit is on fire, making it ideal for exploring new perspectives, making connections, and embracing spontaneity. One-on-one conversations will be delightful, and individuals may inspire or attract others. Whether it's a date, a debate, or a travel plan, openness and cooperation are key.

Capricorn: Serious Matters and Influence

Capricorns are ready to tackle serious matters such as finances, partnerships, or power dynamics. Their powerful insights can make them a force to be reckoned with. People are more open to their ideas now, especially when using charm and persuasion. There may also be some romantic intrigue or meaningful conversations.

Aquarius: Relationships and Originality

With the Moon in the partnership zone aligned with flirty Venus in Gemini, relationships are in focus. Whether romantic, platonic, or creative, connections are uplifting with a touch of mischief. Being authentic and original will attract people who complement and stimulate the mind.

Pisces: Productivity and Play

Pisces will find even chores enjoyable. Blending productivity with play leads to satisfaction. It's a great time to refresh workspaces, reconnect with colleagues, or find new ways to enjoy wellness routines. Homely comforts and great conversation go hand in hand, so keeping things light and enjoying small pleasures is encouraged.

Daily Horoscope Insights

Every morning, including weekends, daily horoscopes are available for all zodiac signs. To check the forecast, visit the dedicated horoscopes page. Those interested in personalized readings can sign up for a free daily newsletter, ensuring a tailored horoscope delivered directly to their inbox.

Yes, AI Models Are in Vogue — And This Is Just the Start

Yes, AI Models Are in Vogue — And This Is Just the Start

M Hasan    6:00 AM   

The Rise of AI Models in High Fashion

In a surprising twist, an AI-generated model has made its way into the pages of Vogue. This revelation came from a TikTok video posted by user @lala4an, who highlighted an ad for Guess's chevron dress in the August issue. The ad featured a blonde woman with an hourglass figure, but what caught attention was the small print stating, "Produced by Seraphinne Vallora on AI." The video quickly gained traction, reaching over 2 million views in just three days.

Who is Seraphinne Vallora?

Seraphinne Vallora is an Instagram account with over 220k followers, showcasing a range of smooth-skinned women with high cheekbones and plump lips—though all images are AI-generated. Their bio states, "We design editorial level AI-driven marketing campaigns and cinematic videos. As seen in Elle, Grazia, Vogue, WSJ, FT, Harper’s Bazaar."

The real individuals behind the company, Valentina Gonzalez and Andreea Petrescu, started creating AI models while trying to launch a jewelry brand. They found that they couldn't afford real models, so they used their skills to create their own. This approach proved successful, leading others to request similar services.

A New Market Opportunity

Valentina and Andreea noticed a significant gap in the market for design-led AI image companies. Andreea recalled, "We started going viral because nobody was doing this at the time, and that's how we grew our account. We grew the account organically." Over two years, the company expanded to include five people, catching the attention of Paul Marciano, co-founder of Guess.

Paul's interest in their work led to a direct message, which eventually resulted in collaboration. Valentina explained, "Paul is a very fearless man. He's a trendsetter. So he decided, 'I like this, I want it.' Eventually, I really believe many other companies will go for this."

Why Use AI Models?

When asked why a brand like Guess would choose AI models, Valentina shared that Paul emphasized, "I'm not looking to replace our models." Instead, he wanted to supplement existing campaigns, which can be time-consuming to plan. With AI, campaigns can be created more quickly without the need for travel or permits.

Both Valentina and Andreea view their use of AI as a form of art. Valentina stated, "It's no different to a random person taking a camera, that doesn't make them a photographer." They also deny that their AI models copy real people, emphasizing that they are based on imagination rather than real features.

Collaboration and Customization

Seraphinne Vallora works closely with clients, often providing mood boards and collaborating with photographers and in-person models to test poses and angles. Stylists select clothing and accessories, ensuring the final product aligns with the brand's identity. An example deck for a luxury brand includes selecting body type, eye color, hair style, height, and other defining features.

Andreea noted that their technology has advanced significantly, making the AI-generated images look like real photos. She mentioned, "What you see in Guess is amazing, but what we do now is even better."

Transparency and Public Perception

While the Guess ads include disclosures, Andreea believes there may not be a future requirement for such disclosures. She stated, "People are not familiar with it and people are scared of change. But once this becomes the new norm, I think whether companies decide to add it or not, it's not too relevant."

Regarding concerns about unrealistic beauty standards, Valentina responded, "We are not creating a new standard. The standard has always been there." Andreea added, "We're pretty much in line with the same standard that is set in the rest of the magazine."

Diverse Representation and Future Plans

Initially, Seraphinne Vallora featured more diverse body types and ethnicities on their Instagram page, including men. However, the "fantasy type" of woman garnered the most attention. Valentina noted, "It's not even us, it's the public. If they loved the diversity, we would have flooded our Instagram with diversity."

The company also offers AI twins of real-life models, allowing supermodels to take on multiple jobs simultaneously. Valentina described the process, stating, "We literally get everything exactly the way you look. I'm talking details, pores, facial hair, everything, we get it to exact accuracy."

Ethical Considerations

If supermodels use their AI avatars, Valentina said, "It's their choice. We encourage them to." While the ethical implications of AI models continue to be debated, Seraphinne Vallora remains focused on innovation and creativity in the fashion industry.

Woman in Menopause Prescribed Antidepressants for Additional Treatment

Woman in Menopause Prescribed Antidepressants for Additional Treatment

M Hasan    4:57 AM   

Understanding Perimenopause and the Misdiagnosis of Mental Health Conditions

Leslie Ann McDonald, a 46-year-old online fitness coach in the Philadelphia area, found herself in a cycle of exhaustion and confusion. She often skipped her weightlifting routine and would drop her daughter off at school before heading back to bed. Her body ached, she struggled to sleep, and her brain felt foggy. Despite not feeling depressed, her doctor prescribed an antidepressant. She even sought therapy, but it wasn’t until a decade later that she received the correct diagnosis: perimenopause.

McDonald’s experience is not uncommon. Many women going through menopause or perimenopause are prescribed antidepressants like Zoloft, Prozac, or Wellbutrin, even though these medications may not address the root cause of their symptoms. According to recent studies, more than a third of women experiencing menopause or perimenopause are prescribed these drugs, with usage doubling during these years. However, many health experts now argue that the majority of these women never needed antidepressants in the first place.

The Role of Hormone Therapy in Menopause Treatment

Perimenopause, the transitional phase leading up to menopause, is marked by fluctuating hormone levels, which can cause a range of symptoms including anxiety, fatigue, and brain fog. These symptoms are often misinterpreted as signs of depression, leading to the prescription of antidepressants instead of addressing the hormonal imbalance directly.

Hormone therapy, particularly estrogen, is considered the most effective treatment for managing menopause symptoms. Yet, medical schools have historically provided limited training on menopause, contributing to a lack of understanding among healthcare providers. This gap in education has led to delayed or incorrect diagnoses, leaving many women without proper care.

A recent push by doctors and researchers on a Food and Drug Administration (FDA) panel aimed to update warnings about topical estrogen treatments. Currently, these medications carry warnings about potential breast cancer risks and their use in preventing cardiovascular disease or dementia. However, proponents argue that these warnings are outdated and may be deterring women from seeking necessary treatment.

The Impact of Misinformation and Medical Training

The Women’s Health Initiative (WHI) study from 2002 linked hormone therapy to increased risks of breast cancer, heart attacks, and strokes. However, subsequent research has shown that these risks were primarily associated with older women starting hormone therapy after menopause. As a result, the use of hormone therapy dropped significantly over the years.

Despite this, the North American Menopause Society still recommends hormone therapy as the first-line treatment for menopause symptoms. Experts emphasize that hormone therapy should be considered early, especially for women experiencing severe symptoms such as brain fog, mood changes, and hot flashes.

Changing Perspectives on Menopause Care

As more Gen X and older millennial women enter menopause, they are advocating for better treatment options. They are no longer willing to endure the same challenges their mothers faced. Menopause has also become a significant area of focus in healthcare, with over 40% of U.S. women in some stage of menopause or perimenopause. For many, this period can last one-third of their lives, making it a critical health concern.

Experts like Dr. Heidi Flagg, an OB-GYN and menopause specialist, stress the importance of educating both clinicians and patients about the role of hormones in menopause. “We are doing women a disservice by not talking to them about a natural hormone that will improve their mood and sexual function,” she says.

What Women Can Do

Until more healthcare providers receive proper training, women must take an active role in their health. Experts recommend finding a provider who specializes in menopause or perimenopause, as certified by organizations like The Menopause Society. Early intervention is crucial, as many women begin experiencing perimenopause in their 30s.

Educating oneself about menopause and its symptoms is also essential. Pairing medication with lifestyle changes such as nutrition and exercise can help alleviate symptoms. Sharing experiences with other women and discussing concerns with healthcare providers can lead to more accurate diagnoses and effective treatment plans.

A Call for Better Healthcare Education

With the growing awareness of menopause as a significant health issue, there is a push for better education and policy changes. Three states have already passed menopause-related laws, and more are considering similar legislation. The Menopause Society has launched a $10 million training program to equip over 25,000 healthcare workers with the knowledge needed to treat menopause effectively.

For women like Leslie Ann McDonald, the journey to finding the right treatment was long and challenging. But her story highlights the importance of self-advocacy and the need for a shift in how menopause is understood and treated in the medical community.

DRLs: Your Car's 'Safety' Feature Could Be a Danger

DRLs: Your Car's 'Safety' Feature Could Be a Danger

M Hasan    9:51 AM   

Understanding Daytime Running Lights (DRLs)

Daytime running lights (DRLs) have become a standard feature in most new vehicles, illuminating the road ahead of the driver. These lights are designed to enhance vehicle visibility during daylight hours, with the primary goal of reducing the likelihood of collisions, especially in adverse weather conditions. However, despite their widespread adoption, there is ongoing debate about their true effectiveness and how they impact road safety.

The idea behind DRLs is that by making vehicles more visible, drivers can better anticipate the presence of other cars on the road. This concept has been embraced by many manufacturers as a way to improve overall traffic safety. Yet, skepticism remains, particularly regarding the actual benefits these lights provide in real-world scenarios.

The Debate Over DRLs

One of the main concerns raised by drivers and automotive experts is the potential for confusion caused by DRLs. Many people assume that if their DRLs are on, their headlights are also active. This misunderstanding can lead to dangerous situations, especially at night when proper lighting is crucial. Some drivers have reported seeing vehicles without taillights, which can make it difficult for others to spot them from behind.

This issue is further complicated by varying state regulations regarding the use of headlights and DRLs. Drivers may not always be aware of the specific rules in different jurisdictions, leading to inconsistent practices and increased risks on the road. Additionally, some critics argue that DRLs may create a false sense of security, encouraging drivers to rely too heavily on automated systems rather than maintaining personal vigilance.

Impact on Motorcyclists

Another significant concern is the effect of DRLs on motorcyclists. Unlike cars, motorcycles have traditionally required their headlights to be on at all times, making them more visible to other drivers. With the rise of DRLs on passenger vehicles, this distinct visibility has diminished, potentially increasing the risk of accidents involving motorcyclists. Studies suggest that the widespread use of DRLs may contribute to a situation where motorcycles are less noticeable, leading to more collisions.

This shift in visibility dynamics raises important questions about the design and implementation of vehicle lighting systems. While DRLs aim to improve safety, they may inadvertently create new challenges for vulnerable road users like motorcyclists.

Mixed Results from Research

Research conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has shown mixed results regarding the effectiveness of DRLs. Some studies indicate a minor reduction in crash severity for certain types of vehicles, but the overall impact on road safety remains unclear. One report noted that DRLs could actually increase the number of single-vehicle-to-motorcycle crashes during the day, highlighting a potential drawback of the technology.

These findings underscore the complexity of the issue and suggest that DRLs may not be a one-size-fits-all solution for improving road safety. Instead, they require careful consideration and possibly additional features to ensure that all aspects of a vehicle's lighting system work together effectively.

The Need for Better Design

Many drivers and safety advocates believe that car manufacturers should take a more proactive approach in addressing the limitations of DRLs. One proposed solution is to integrate features that automatically activate both headlights and taillights under certain conditions, such as when windshield wipers are in use. This would help ensure that vehicles remain fully visible in adverse weather conditions, reducing the risk of accidents.

Additionally, there is a growing call for greater accountability from manufacturers in ensuring that vehicle lighting systems meet safety standards. By incorporating advanced technologies and designing systems that prioritize visibility and safety, automakers can play a key role in enhancing road safety for all users.

Looking Ahead

As vehicle technology continues to evolve, the future of DRLs will likely depend on ongoing research, consumer feedback, and innovations in automotive engineering. While the current debate highlights both the advantages and disadvantages of DRLs, it is clear that a comprehensive approach is needed to address the challenges they present.

Ultimately, the goal should be to harness technology in a way that complements responsible driving habits while ensuring that all road users are seen and accounted for. By fostering a culture of awareness and shared responsibility, we can work towards a safer and more inclusive driving environment for everyone.

Is Princess Polly Fast Fashion? How Sustainable Is This Brand?

Is Princess Polly Fast Fashion? How Sustainable Is This Brand?

M Hasan    9:51 AM   

Understanding Princess Polly: A Closer Look at Their Claims and Practices

Princess Polly is an Australian online fashion boutique that has positioned itself as a brand focused on bringing the latest trends to everyday consumers. Since its inception in 2010, the company has expanded its offerings to include a wide range of women's clothing, from casual wear to special occasion attire like prom dresses. However, the question remains: Is Princess Polly truly sustainable and ethical, or is it another fast fashion brand with greenwashing tactics?

Is Princess Polly Fast Fashion?

Without a doubt, Princess Polly operates as a fast fashion brand. Its business model revolves around producing trendy clothes quickly and in large quantities. While the company claims to be committed to making on-trend fashion sustainable, this statement is often seen as contradictory given the nature of fast fashion. The industry is known for its rapid turnover of styles, which leads to overproduction and the creation of low-quality, disposable garments. This approach is inherently unsustainable.

Despite their claims, Princess Polly seems hesitant to fully acknowledge their role in the fast fashion industry. Instead, they focus on their mission to make fashion more sustainable, which raises questions about their true intentions.

Environmental Impact: Materials and Sustainability Goals

One of the key areas of concern is the materials used by Princess Polly. The company states that 30% of their new arrivals are made with lower environmental impact materials, aiming to increase this to 60% by 2025 and 100% as soon as possible. However, these goals lack clarity. Without knowing what percentage of their total stock this represents, it's difficult to assess the real impact of these changes.

Additionally, Princess Polly offers a lower-impact range, but this is often seen as a greenwashing tactic. By highlighting a small portion of their products as sustainable, they may be misleading customers into thinking the entire brand is eco-friendly.

Carbon Neutrality and Recycling Efforts

Princess Polly has set a goal to achieve carbon neutrality by 2030, which is a positive step forward. They have taken measures to reduce the carbon footprint of their products and plan to offset any remaining emissions. However, there is no mention of a clothing recycling program, which is a significant oversight. The absence of such a program suggests that the company is not invested in creating durable, long-lasting garments that can be reused or repaired.

Ethical Considerations: Labor Practices and Transparency

Princess Polly subcontracts much of its labor, which raises concerns about the working conditions of its garment makers. While the company publishes some information about its factories, including audit details and worker demographics, the transparency is limited. Tier one and two factories are traced, but the data for tiers three through five is vague and insufficient.

The company also claims to be moving toward becoming a completely vegan business by 2024, but there is no official update on this progress. Furthermore, while they have a policy aligned with the Five Freedoms of animal welfare, the remaining 1% of non-vegan products still needs to be addressed.

Sustainability Rating and Overall Performance

When evaluating Princess Polly’s sustainability efforts, the results are mixed. The company scores poorly in transparency, fair labor practices, and diversity, equity, and inclusion. While they have made some positive steps, such as using compostable packaging and reducing landfill waste, these efforts are overshadowed by their reliance on fast fashion practices.

Princess Polly received B Corp certification in 2025, but this has raised concerns among critics. The certification is seen as a potential dilution of standards, especially for a brand that continues to produce large volumes of fast fashion items.

Ethical Alternatives to Princess Polly

For those seeking more ethical and sustainable alternatives, several brands stand out:

1. Outerknown – Offers a wide range of ethically produced clothing, with a focus on preferred fabrics and a pre-owned program.
2. Whimsy + Row – Emphasizes local production and a waitlist model to combat overproduction.
3. Kotn – Known for its commitment to fair wages, traceability, and community investment.

These brands provide a more transparent and responsible approach to fashion, making them ideal choices for conscious consumers.

Conclusion

While Princess Polly has made some strides in sustainability, its overall performance falls short of what is expected from an ethical and environmentally responsible brand. The company must address its reliance on fast fashion, improve transparency, and take more meaningful action to support fair labor practices and environmental sustainability. For now, it remains a brand that has a long way to go before it can be considered truly sustainable.