25 May, 2025 | Admin | No Comments
Argos is coming through with its massive bank holiday tech sale – here’s what we’re buying
Metro journalists select and curate the products that feature on our site. If you make a purchase via links on this page we will earn commission – learn more
It’s officially bank holiday weekend, and if you’re not stuck in traffic or scrubbing down the BBQ, there’s a good chance you’re on the hunt for a deal.
Luckily, Argos has come through with a seriously impressive sale across tech, home, and more – and some of the biggest discounts are on top-of-the-range gadgets we all want.
Whether you’re after a new TV, need to upgrade your headphones, or have had your eye on a smartwatch, this is the perfect time to snap up a deal.
Some offers are as much as 50% off, and you don’t even have to wait days for delivery as most items are available for same-day click and collect.
Many of the deals are on well-known favourites, and if a discount code is needed, it’ll be listed with the offer as savings vary from item to item.
Explore our top picks from the unmissable sale below.
Bose QuietComfort Ultra In-Ear True Wireless Earbuds – Black
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra In-Ear True Wireless Earbuds feature unbeatable noise cancellation and personalised sound, thanks to CustomTune technology, which adapts audio and ANC to the unique shape of your ears. Switch between Quiet Mode and Aware Mode when you need to hear your surroundings. Use the code RED10 for 10% off.
Google Pixel 8 5G 128GB AI Mobile Phone – Rose
Google’s Pixel 8 5G 128GB AI Mobile Phone is fast, smart, and great for photos. AI features like Photo Unblur, Magic Eraser, and Audio Magic Eraser clean up your pics and videos with just a tap. It’s got a bright 6.2-inch display, all-day battery, and a stylish rose finish to top it all off. Use the code RED50 for 50% off.
Samsung Galaxy Tab A9 8in 64GB Wi-Fi Tablet – Grey
Perfect for everyday use, the Samsung Galaxy Tab A9 8in 64GB Wi-Fi Tablet in grey is compact, lightweight, and great for browsing, streaming, or catching up on emails. The bright 8-inch display is easy on the eyes, and with 64GB of storage, there’s plenty of room for your apps, photos and more. Use the code RED20 for 20% off.
Marshall Major V On-Ear Wireless Headphones – Black
Built with great sound and long battery life, the Marshall Major V On-Ear Wireless Headphones give you rich, signature Marshall audio in a sleek, classic design. You get up to 100 hours of playtime on a single charge, plus customisable controls and a foldable build that’s perfect for life on the go.
Anker SOLIX C300X Portable Power Station – 288Wh
Ideal for camping, road trips or backup power when you’re out and about, Anker’s SOLIX C300X Portable Power Station is max power in a compact design. With multiple ports and fast charging, it keeps your gadgets going when you’re off-grid and running on red. Use the code RED20 for 20% off.
HUAWEI Watch GT5 Pro 46mm Smart Watch – Black
The HUAWEI Watch GT5 Pro 46mm Smart Watch features a crisp AMOLED display, built-in GPS, heart rate and SpO₂ monitoring, sleep and stress tracking, and over 100 workout modes. You’ll also get up to 14 days of battery life on a single charge, wireless charging, and handy smart features like call notifications and music control. Use the code RED20 for 20% off.
Acoustic Solutions 1 Portable Bluetooth Speaker – White
The Acoustic Solutions 1 Portable Bluetooth Speaker gives you reliable Bluetooth streaming in a clean, lightweight, and compact design. With a built-in rechargeable battery and simple controls, it’s a handy choice for listening at home or on the move. Use the code RED30 for 30% off.
Enjoy the bank holiday weekend and upgrade your tech with these unmissable discounts. Hurry though, as the savings will come to an end in just a few days!
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24 May, 2025 | Admin | No Comments
‘I’d never date a Tory’ – but apparently, Reform voters are fair game
‘I’d never date a Tory’ is a familiar line on dating apps, but new research shows younger singles are surprisingly more open to Reform UK voters than Conservatives
Every month, a week before my period, cramps from my cervix flow into every bodily crevice.
Alongside the pain, my mood drops with a crash.
My periods are brutal because of endometriosis – a condition that causes body-wide pain due as endometrial tissue grows outside the womb. The pain is constant beyond bleeding days, and the actual menstruation? Savage.
To prepare, I charge my TENS machine (a pain relief device) and electric hot water bottle, and stock up on painkillers.
But since I ditched menstrual products and started embracing the ancient practice of free bleeding, rushing to buy pads and tampons is one less thing to think about. I don’t ever see myself going back.
‘Oh, a period for the modern, woke, feminist?’ I hear you moan. Not so much.
People have bled freely for centuries, especially before underwear became common in the 1800s. If you want women to return to ‘traditional femininity’, you can’t get more femme.
In the 1970s, the term was coined amid a rise of menstrual activism and its popularity rose due to fears around toxic shock syndrome (TSS), a rare and potentially fatal condition that can be caused by improper tampon usage.
In 2015, the movement surged again when Kiran Gandhi ran the London Marathon without a tampon. Her choice sparked global discussion, ranging from applause to disgust.
I’d considered free bleeding while at university, where I battled thrush and couldn’t always afford tampons. Medieval accounts of women letting blood run into their skirts intrigued me. But period shame held me back.
Despite being raised by a feminist matriarch, social period stigma had a massive effect. Into my twenties, I hid tampons up my sleeve to avoid people seeing them and panicked over the tiniest leak. I’d been socialised to believe my periods were inherently bad, that men would dismiss any mood change as ‘PMSing’. I figured the less people knew, the better.
But I couldn’t find a period option that worked for me. Sticky sanitary towels gave me thrush or caused vulval irritation. Tampons were uncomfortable and fear-inducing. Reusable pads, while softer and chemical-free, still irritated my skin, and the constant rinsing was time-consuming.
Period pants were the winner overall, but on summer days, they made my crotch feel like a bloody furnace.
After cycling through menstrual cup options – digging inside myself, in a public bathroom, put me off for life – I decided to try free bleeding in April 2024 and I haven’t looked back.
There’s no irritation, no smell, and fewer expenses. The average annual cost of period products is around £128 for disposable products. I haven’t spent a penny in over a year.
I’m no longer worried about whether I have enough pads, or waste time soaking reusables.
I also bleed less. Although I don’t have any scientific evidence, I used to go through up to eight pads or four tampons a day, and now I rarely get through my underwear. I only bleed for three to five days, instead of up to eight. I don’t know the exact source of this menstruation miracle but I’m not questioning it!
Similarly, I’ve also noticed far less cramping.
Instead of dousing my vulva with Sudocrem or Canesten after a long day of discomfort, I just wear dark clothing and usually change my underwear once, usually about mid-afternoon.
On light days, I can go the whole day in one pair; on rare heavier days, I might go through three. I sit on a blanket as an extra precaution, but in over a year of free bleeding, it’s never been stained.
On work-from-home days, I sometimes eschew underwear and clothes to let my vulva breathe. I use a towel to soak up any blood and take an extra shower during the day if the blood gets on my thighs, which I already do at least twice a day during my period.
Apart from the extra laundry load, the only down-side has been avoiding the swimming pool.
Everyone should try free bleeding at least once. It’s cheaper, environmentally friendly and so freeing – I’ve formed a greater connection to my body and embrace all its functions without shame.
People imagine free bleeders dripping blood and leaving puddles in their wake, but we only lose an average of two to three tablespoons of blood per period. It’s not like the slasher film you’ve conjured up in your head.
When I have shared in the past, no one has judged me – because my period is my business and how I deal with it doesn’t impact anyone else. I’m grateful for any little bit of stress I can remove from my already chronically ill life.
If you’re curious, start on a light day near the end of your period to test the waters. Wear dark, thick fabrics and see how you go. It might not be for you, or you might become a convert.
In the face of enduring period stigma, I plan to remain a free bleeder for as long as I have a period.
Do you have a story you’d like to share? Get in touch by emailing jess.austin@metro.co.uk.
Share your views in the comments below.
Metro journalists select and curate the products that feature on our site. If you make a purchase via links on this page we will earn commission – learn more
You know the saying ‘it’s a tough job but someone’s got to do it?’ Well, that was me last weekend.
And you know what? If you don’t believe me, try tasting 50 cans of booze while filming it for TikTok at the same time.
You’re probably thinking there are worse ways to spend a weekend, but bear in mind, each tinny I sampled promised to transport me to a beach, a park, a rooftop, or at least somewhere more glamourous than my office in Zone 2. And yet, here I am, still tapping away at my keyboard.
You may think I sound like a brat, though I prefer the term ‘hero’. Because, armed with only a ring pull, a glass, a spittoon, a wing and a prayer, I bravely cracked open 50 tinnies of cocktails and wines so you don’t have to. That’s why my mouth currently tastes like a boozy Haribo factory and my gums ache like they’ve been pummelled by an impatient tooth fairy.
I’m not looking for sympathy here, by the way. But you should know that I navigated everything from neon-hued concoctions that tasted like the ‘drinks’ I used to make as a teenager (from everything in my parents’ booze cabinet), to grown-up libations that could have been poured by a barman or sommelier.
Why? Because I set out to show that cans aren’t just about park rosé and lukewarm lager anymore, they’re good quality drops housed in elevated aluminium. Or, at least, they’re trying to be.
Plus, cans are low waste because of their perfect portioning, they chill quicker than glass, take up less space and are easier to sneak into places I shouldn’t mention here. Plus, aluminium is infinitely more recyclable than glass, which despite its premium image, has a surprisingly wasteful track record. I’m looking at you in particular, coloured glass.
Anyhoo, let’s cut to the chase, what are the results of my tinny taste-off? Here are the top five cocktails, spritzes and wines with scores out of 10…
The best canned cocktails
1. Infusionist Espresso Martini, £1.39, Aldi
Impressive, base notes, coffee, chocolate, cream, can taste the spirit.
Rating: 8.5/10
2. Infusionist Spicy Margarita, £1.39, Aldi
Definite spice there, can taste the tequila and some good herbaceous notes – good strength.
Rating: 8.2/10
3. Greysons Pink Gin and Tonic, 99p, Aldi
Overt sweetness followed by pleasant bitterness – initially jarring, abrupt but evens out.
Rating: 7.9/10
4. Sunrise Margarita, 89p, Lidl
Very authentic nose – touch too much sweetness – good lime and tequila character.
Rating: 7.9/10
5. Ready to Drink Gin and Light Tonic, £1.10, Sainsbury’s
Good citrus bitterness, fresh, good quality.
Rating: 7.2/10
Drinks for the spritz fans
1. Sho Gun Peach Iced Tea Sparkling Sake, £21 for 6, Sho Gun Sakes
Peach heavy but nicely tempered – balanced, dry and fresh with lovely umami notes.
Rating: 9/10
2. Codorniu Spritz Lets Orange, £24.38, Amazon
Subtle orange flavours, freshness, good finish.
Rating: 8.7/10
3. Pica Pica Rose Wine Spritz, £2.48, Asda
Very moreish, dry, strawberry, intensity, fresh.
Rating: 8.6/10
4. La Gioisa Rosea Spritz, £3.50, Waitrose
Lovely, candy floss and dry berry flavours, very enjoyable.
Rating: 8.4/10
5. La Gioisa White Fizz, £3.50, Waitrose
Sherbety, not too sweet, pear and apple notes.
Rating: 8.2/10
Wine time
1. Canned Wine Co Gruner No 1, £4.95, The Tipple Cellar
I was nodding my head while I tasted this, which is a good thing. Full flavoured, peachy, tangerine sherbet and white pepper notes. Very, very good.
Rating: 9.2/10
2. Vinca Organic Red Wine, £9 for a 75cl aluminium bottle from Tesco or £2.99 for a can from DELLI
Fresh berries, stalky, chocolate and cherry. Very fresh, crunchy style.
Rating: 8.9
3. Mirabeau Prêt-à-Porter Rosé, £3.75, Waitrose
Fresh berries and strawberries , in fact, all the berries and a creamy, dry finish.
Rating: 8.9/10
4. Villa Maria Sauvignon, £3.75, Morrisons
Lovely Sauvignon-like flavour cues, freshness, nettley, good finish.
Rating: 8.4
5. Terre di Faiano Primitivo Organic, £3.75, Waitrose
Blue fruit flavours, some dried blueberry notes and lots of charred, sweet oak.
Rating: 8.4/10
Looking for more expert drinks content?
If you count yourself a purveyor of the finer things in life, Metro’s Drink Up column is where you need to be.
Immerse yourself in the world of good drink, fronted by industry expert Rob Buckhaven – a place for readers to whet their whistle with the latest and greatest in the world of drinks. From unpacking the best supermarket wines from Aldi, Tesco and Lidl, to introducing audiences to the wallet-friendly Cremant out-bubbling the fanciest of French Champagnes (or the best wines to drink after sex), and finding out what it’s like to go on a bar crawl with Jason Momoa, this is a haven for those who love to celebrate.
Stay ahead of the curve as Rob plucks from the vines the wines of the season and the spirits you need to know about; speaking with experts and mixologists while unpacking the latest concoctions, finding the best non-alcoholic options for those looking to moderate, discovering the best food pairings for your drops, and going up against the latest TikTok chatter to demystify the liquid landscape.
Can you really make cheap vodka taste expensive by putting it through a Brita filter?
What happens when you put wine in a blender?
Do you have a story to share?
Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@Metro.co.uk.
24 May, 2025 | Admin | No Comments
Here's how much attending a wedding solo will set you back after Brits battle 'singles tax'
The cost of weddings are creeping up, especially for those who will be attending alone. However, Tinder is helping singletons find their perfect wedding plus ones
24 May, 2025 | Admin | No Comments
As a beauty expert, this is what I’m buying in the Amazon Everyday Essentials sale
Metro journalists select and curate the products that feature on our site. If you make a purchase via links on this page we will earn commission – learn more
Amazon’s brand new Everyday Essentials sales event is here, and while it might sound like it’s all about bin bags and washing-up liquid, there are actually some really good beauty deals in the mix!
The sale is running until 27th May, so you’ve got just a few days left to snap up some impressive discounts – with savings of up to 47% off on some products.
It’s the perfect excuse to stock up on all those little things you use every day but somehow never quite remember to buy until you’re almost out because, if you’re anything like me, you’ve had that frustrating moment when you go to wash your face or do your hair and realise you’re scraping the bottom of the bottle.
So if your bathroom shelf is looking a bit sorry for itself with a half-empty shampoo and one lonely cotton pad left in the pack, now’s the perfect time to replenish.
Whether you’re topping up your everyday essentials or finally replacing that old moisturiser, there are plenty of brilliant beauty deals to make it worth your while.
Plus, it’s not just skincare and haircare, you’ll find bargains on deodorants, razors, body wash, and even baby wipes if you need them.
Shoppers don’t need to be a Prime member to get in on these discounts either, so everyone can save a little on their next beauty haul.
Maybelline Instant Anti-Age Eraser Concealer
Maybelline’s cult-status Instant Anti-Age Eraser Concealer brightens and hides dark circles and blemishes with a smooth, high-coverage formula. Its built-in sponge makes application quick and easy, blending effortlessly for a natural, fresh look that won’t crease or cake.
L'Oréal Paris Elvive Glycolic Gloss Leave-In Serum
Formulated with glycolic acid and vitamin C to gently smooth and brighten hair, L'Oréal Paris Elvive Glycolic Gloss Leave-In Serum is a lightweight formula that smooths strands, boosts shine, and helps tame flyaways, leaving your locks looking glossy and healthy.
e.l.f. Power Grip Primer
Brilliant for dry skin, e.l.f. Power Grip Primer is a lightweight, hydrating primer packed with peptides and niacinamide to prep your skin and help your makeup last. It creates a smooth, slightly tacky base that helps foundation stay put all day without drying out your skin.
What are you waiting for? There’s only four days left to snap up some brilliant deals and these products are just a taste of what’s on offer.
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23 May, 2025 | Admin | No Comments
From Space NK to Mango – here’s 23 items our shopping expert is buying this weekend
Metro journalists select and curate the products that feature on our site. If you make a purchase via links on this page we will earn commission – learn more
And just like that, our next May bank holiday is here – along with your next edition of Trend Trove, and the hottest things you need to know about… and add to basket pronto.
Yes, as always, our shopping expert (and self-confessed shopaholic) has been searching the internet for hours, hitting the high street hard and talking to her pals about the latest trends.
With over 12 years of experience, we think she knows what she’s talking about – and this week? Well it’s the news she’s most excited about – yes, that famous reformer Pilates machine from Aldi will be in selected stores this Sunday May 25.
After causing a stir in Australia, this viral Specialbuy has finally landed in the UK, offering professional-grade Reformer Pilates workouts at a fraction of the usual cost. With Reformer Pilates tipped as one of 2025’s top fitness trends, this at-home machine is perfect for building core strength, improving flexibility, and toning up. It’s a game-changer for anyone looking to elevate their fitness routine from the comfort of home.
Kettle Chips have launched some scrumptious new flavours and teamed up with chef and author Rachel Khoo to launch two new gourmet flavours: Honey Dijon Mustard and Brie & Caramelised Onion. Inspired by Khoo’s culinary experiences in France, these hand-cooked crisps combine high-quality ingredients with sophisticated French-inspired tastes. The Honey Dijon Mustard flavour balances sweet and tangy notes, while the Brie & Caramelised Onion offers a rich, indulgent blend. Both varieties are gluten-free, made without artificial ingredients, and available in major UK retailers this May.
For those who require a new sofa, maybe dining room table and chairs, soft furnishings or an Italian-inspired napkin, DUSK’s bank holiday sale kicks off today Friday, May 23, offering shoppers up to 75% off sitewide.
Customers can enjoy up to 50% off across the site, with an additional 25% discount at checkout using the code EXTRA25. The promotion runs until 23:59 on Monday 26th May, featuring a range of customer-favourite styles.
PizzaExpress is embracing the viral drinks trend by becoming the first UK high street restaurant to serve jalapeño Sauvignon Blanc. Inspired by its American Hot pizza and the online craze of adding jalapeños to wine, diners can now spice up their glass with a portion of jalapeños for just £1.50. This bold new add-on pairs perfectly with pizza or can be enjoyed on its own for a fiery summer twist.
In other beverage news, Electrolyte brand Humantra is relaunching its popular Black Cherry flavour in the UK, following a sell-out debut last year. The flavour, which sold 16 weeks’ worth of stock in just four weeks, taps into 2025’s trending ‘Black Cherry’ beauty craze and offers hydration with added skin benefits.
Humantra’s formula is plant-based, sugar-free, and packed with essential electrolytes, vitamins, and antioxidants to support energy, focus, and overall wellbeing. Founder Charlie Wright describes the flavour as a delicious way to stay hydrated and feel good from the inside out.
And now for the hottest products you need to add into your basket pronto – or at least that’s what our expert is doing to sooth her soul…
Then I Met You Honey Dew Lip Mask
The Then I Met You Honey Dew Lip Mask is a dual-purpose lip treatment that works as both a glossy daily balm and an intensive overnight mask. Enriched with honeydew, squalane, and honey, it deeply hydrates while lactic acid gently exfoliates for smooth, supple lips. Its hygienic silicone tip allows for easy, contactless application, making it ideal for all skin types. The result is a nourished, polished pout with long-lasting moisture.
Wype The Starter Bundle
Wype is a UK-based brand offering a sustainable alternative to wet wipes through its toilet paper gel, made from natural, biodegradable, and vegan-friendly ingredients. The Wype Starter Bundle includes two full-size gels, a reusable applicator, and two travel-sized minis, allowing users to enhance their toilet paper for a fresher, eco-conscious clean. It’s designed to be gentle on skin, safe for plumbing, and better for the environment.
Mango Shoulder Bag with Strap
The Mango Shoulder Bag with Strap is a compact, structured handbag designed for everyday use. It features a flap closure with a jewel button, a shoulder strap, and an additional adjustable handle with a knot detail. Measuring approximately 9 x 7 x 3.5 inches, it’s ideal for carrying essentials in style.
Silentnight Restore Cooling Throw
The Silentnight Cooling Lightweight Blanket is ideal for those who struggle with overheating or night sweats. Made with breathable jersey cotton and innovative cooling fabric, it provides instant comfort for a restful night’s sleep. Measuring 152 x 178cm, it’s perfect for use on the sofa or as a lighter alternative to a duvet. It’s also machine washable and dryer safe, making it easy to keep fresh.
Oliver Bonas Red Broderie Frill Square Neck Dobby Midi Dress
This square-neck midi dress is designed for comfort and style, featuring a stretchy shirred back and elasticated shoulder straps for all-day wear. Made from vibrant lipstick-red cotton dobby, it’s detailed with a broderie frill along the waist, neckline, and skirt, plus a chic triangle cut-out above the waistband. The breathable, flowy skirt makes it perfect for warm days, easily dressed up or down for effortless summer style.
Joonbyrd Kaleidoscope Smoothing Body Serum
Joonbyrd Kaleidoscope Body Serum is a lightweight, velvety formula designed to gently exfoliate, smooth, and brighten the skin. Enriched with azelaic and shikimic acids, liquorice root, and superfoods like blueberry seed oil and Chios mandarin, it supports skin barrier health while enhancing radiance. Suitable for all skin types, it provides gentle hydration and helps refine the skin’s texture for a healthier, more luminous appearance.
Boots Fuel & Recover Sports Box
The latest Healthcare Box is an ideal gift or self-treat for sports enthusiasts, whether you're a regular gym-goer or just starting out with supplements. It includes a wide selection of products covering pre-, during-, and post-workout needs, making it perfect for expanding your current routine or exploring sports nutrition for the first time. Featuring top global brands alongside exciting newcomers to the UK market, this box offers a unique mix you won’t find in other UK retailers.
Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Glow Pad Self Tanner for Face 20 Pack
Dr Dennis Gross Alpha Beta® Glow Pad™ Self-Tanner for Face offers a streak-free, natural-looking tan that develops in 3–4 hours. Each towelette is perfectly dosed and enriched with encapsulated DHA for long-lasting, time-released colour, while Alpha Beta® Acids gently exfoliate for smooth application. The formula also includes Vitamin E for hydration and emblica extract to brighten and support collagen production. Suitable for all skin types, it’s easy to use and mess-free, though users should apply sunscreen daily due to increased sun sensitivity from AHAs.
Freddie’s Flowers
Famous for their flower subscription services, Freddie’s Flowers offer three different bouquet sizes, and keep sustainability at their core. Best of all, their peony offering is truly sensational this year — with reds, whites, and plenty of pink varieties making appearances in their current selection of seasonal bouquets. They’re all stunning, but Peony Passion is our personal favourite.
Free People Italian Summer Mary Janes
Sun-drenched days call for these effortlessly chic Mary Janes. Made with soft leather and a minimalist strap design, they give your outfits a laid-back feel. They’re lightweight, breathable, and perfect for pairing with everything from linen trousers to floaty dresses.
The Uniform
A featherlight mineral SPF that does more than just shield your skin — it blends effortlessly with a sheer tint that melts in like second skin. Offering broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection, it’s the kind of sunscreen that feels more like a treat than a chore. In fact, it’s so wearable, you’ll find yourself reaching for it every single day — no reminders needed.
Statesman 13inch Wood Pizza Oven
The Statesman 13-Inch Wood Fired Pizza Oven uses wood pellets to cook pizzas in just 3 minutes at temperatures up to 470°C. It’s versatile for cooking meats, fish, veggies, and bread, and includes a pizza peel, built-in temperature gauge, and waterproof cover – ideal for outdoor cooking with authentic flavour.
Sol de Janeiro Limited Edition Cheirosa 71 Body Cream 240ml
Indulge your skin with the limited-edition Cheirosa 71 Body Cream, a lightweight moisturiser infused with a soft golden shimmer and a warm, comforting scent. Enriched with vitamin-rich macadamia nut for hydration, golden mica for radiance, and tonka bean extract to help even skin tone, it leaves skin glowing and nourished. The scent blends caramelised vanilla with toasted macadamia nut, capturing the essence of sweet, cosy moments. It's a decadent treat for both skin and senses.
Anthropologie Icon Juice Glass
The Icon collection is a beautifully crafted range of drinkware made with hand-pressed glass beads and handblown glass, offering a unique and charming way to celebrate special moments. Each piece features exclusive, one-of-a-kind bead designs that showcase exceptional artistry and craftsmanship. Perfect as a thoughtful gift or a personal treat, this collection brings elegance and individuality to every sip.
Mulberry Amberley Sunglasses
The design you're referring to is inspired by Mulberry’s iconic Amberley collection, known for its distinctive Rider’s Lock – a signature equestrian-inspired detail. In this particular piece, the bold silhouette is complemented by gold Rider’s Lock detailing on the temples, adding a luxurious and recognisable touch. This design element is often featured across Mulberry’s accessories, including sunglasses and jewellery, to reflect the brand’s heritage and craftsmanship. The result is a statement piece that blends classic British style with contemporary elegance.
Kurt Geiger London Chelsea Block Sling Back Heel
The Chelsea Slingback Heel features a paisley blue denim upper, accented with a crystal-embellished antiqued brass oval trim and a central eagle head detail on the toe. It’s finished with a striking gold block heel adorned with crystals, blending bold design with elegant embellishment.
Mario Badescu Special Hand Cream With Vitamin E
The Mario Badescu Special Hand Cream with Vitamin E is a lightweight, non-greasy formula designed to deeply hydrate and soften dry hands. Enriched with nourishing ingredients like Vitamin E, Vitamin A, wheat germ oil, and honey, it helps to soothe and repair the skin while providing antioxidant protection. Ideal for daily use, it absorbs quickly and leaves hands feeling smooth, comfortable, and cared for.
Sassy Saints At-Home Nail Manicure Kit
The Sassy Saints At-Home Nail Manicure Kit is a beginner-friendly dip powder system that delivers salon-quality results without the need for a UV lamp. Priced at £69, it includes enough product for 30 manicures, each drying in just 90 seconds and lasting up to three weeks without chipping. The formula is free from 12 common toxins and enriched with nourishing oils like jojoba and sweet almond to support nail health. It’s a cost-effective and convenient option for long-lasting, glossy nails at home.
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23 May, 2025 | Admin | No Comments
'I feel empty and utterly lost and alone since my kids flew the nest'
Resident agony aunt Coleen Nolan has advice for a woman whose children have grown up and moved out to do their own thing, but she now feels she has no real purpose
23 May, 2025 | Admin | No Comments
If you love free things, you need to check out this deal: ‘This is the best app I have’
Metro journalists select and curate the products that feature on our site. If you make a purchase via links on this page we will earn commission – learn more
Need something new to scroll through this spring? Whether you’re into fashion, fitness, interiors, tech or travel, Readly has thousands of magazines and newspapers to keep you entertained.
And the best part? You can try it completely free for two months.
With over 8,000 titles on the app, including big names like Vogue, Women’s Health, T3, and New Scientist, there’s always something new to flick through.
Sign up to Readly now and enjoy 2 months free
Readly is a digital subscription service that offers unlimited access to over 7,000 magazines and newspapers for a monthly fee. It allows users to read current and past issues across various genres on smartphones, tablets, or desktops. The service supports up to five user profiles per account and includes offline reading. It's ideal for avid readers looking for a wide range of publications in one convenient app.
From daily news to weekend reads and far more niche interests, it’s all in one place and there’s no stacks of paper required.
The 2-month free trial means you’re covered well into summer, and there’s no strings or contract, so you can cancel your subscription anytime.
Checking out the word-of-mouth, users of the platform seem to be sold by the choice.
And while some shoppers felt the platform was a little confusing to navigate, and some browsers took a while to load, others have shared some pretty positive 5-star reviews.
‘This is the best app I have,’ one very happy shopper, Clinton Friend, wrote on Trustpilot, and added: ‘It’s so easy on my tablet and great to take away anywhere I like. The biggest benefit is you can have the app on more devices I think 4/5 but we have it on 3 devices…’
Another user named Howie described the platform as ‘epic’ (but did note his device was starting to ‘complain’), while Julian Blackmore wrote: ‘Access to many different magazines and journals for a fraction of the cost of hardcopy or a regular subscription. Also, the electronic format makes it much easier to make and save high quality copies of articles I find particularly interesting and wish to refer to later.’
The app has got a bunch of content for a range of interests, whether you’re getting stuck into DIY, looking for ways to spruce up the garden, or need some travel inspiration in mags like Wanderlust and National Geographic Traveller.
Plus, one account gives you up to five profiles, so everyone in the family can get stuck into something they love. We did mention it was for free, too, right?
All you need to do is download the app to start reading instantly. You can access your favourite titles online or offline, and since there’s no contract and you can cancel anytime (so there’s zero pressure to stick around after your trial ends, just sayin’).
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23 May, 2025 | Admin | No Comments
Want Pedro Pascal’s toned arms? Personal trainers share how to get them
Ah, Pedro Pascal. From famously telling the world ‘Daddy is a state of mind’, to his support for Trans rights and his willingness to discuss his own struggles with anxiety, the Chilean actor can do no wrong.
And now, he’s given us a reason to love him that little bit more.
The Last of Us star graced the Cannes red carpet in a black muscle top, showing off his toned arms and a hint of torso.
If fans were already thirsting, this look left them practically dehydrated.
With comments declaring the 50-year-old a ‘Greek God’, it’s safe to say the internet is full of appreciation.
‘I feel like a Victorian man catching a glimpse of an ankle,’ one user replied to a post of Pedro’s biceps.
Another, proclaimed: ‘My new religion is Pedro Pascal’s arms.’
If you’ve been inspired by Pedro (and let’s face it, who hasn’t) and you’re looking to build muscle, tone up, or just want to switch up your next workout, Metro asked experts how to get arms as lust-worthy as the man himself.
How can you get toned arms?
‘Toned simply means having visible muscle definition,’ Tom Brown, PT and founder of 1st Class Bootcamp, tells Metro.
‘The only way to achieve that is building and maintaining lean muscle mass and reducing body fat.’
According to Tom, the most effective way to do this is by adjusting your nutrition. ‘Training is a tool to build muscle, but it’s your diet that reveals it,’ he explains.
‘You need to be in a caloric deficit with adequate protein intake to support muscle while losing fat,’ he adds.
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Joseph Webb, chartered personal trainer and nutritionist with over 18 years of experience, says a combination of resistance training and fat loss can help if you want to achieve this look.
‘Using progressive overload – gradually increasing the weight or reps – helps build and shape muscle. But that shape won’t show if it’s hidden under a layer of fat, so reducing overall body fat is essential for revealing muscle tone.’
The best exercises for Pedro-like arms
‘To develop well-defined arms, you want a mix of isolation and compound exercises,’ Tom says. Isolation exercises target one specific muscle group or joint, while compound exercises target multiple joints and muscle groups.
For your biceps, Tom recommends barbell curls, dumbbell curls and preacher curls. For triceps he says to try cable pushdowns, overhead extensions and tricep dips.
Joseph adds that shoulders are often overlooked when training arms, but ‘dramatically improve overall arm aesthetics.’
He says: ‘Pressing movements like dumbbell shoulder presses and Arnold presses are compound lifts that build overall shoulder mass and stability.
‘Isolation exercises like lateral raises and front raises help develop the deltoid muscles for more rounded, defined shoulders – which makes the entire arm look more sculpted.’
Tom stresses the importance of ‘time under tension’ – which involves holding the muscle under strain for longer with pulses and slow movements.
‘For me, this is a fantastic way to make progress and challenge the arms, without always increasing the load.’
The best workout for biceps
If you want to tone your arms and shoulders, Joseph suggests aiming for 10-20 sets per muscle group per week.
He says training these areas two to three times weekly with 12-15 reps per set can be very effective.
Joseph’s ‘ultimate two-day per week arm and shoulder plan’:
Day 1 (6-10 reps)
- Barbell Standing Overhead Press – 4 sets x 6-8 reps. Rest: 2 minutes.
- Weighted Chin-ups or Neutral Grip Pull-ups – 4 sets x 6-8 reps. Rest: 90 seconds.
- Barbell or EZ-Bar Biceps Curl – 3 sets x 6-8 reps. Rest: 90 seconds.
- Close-Grip Bench Press – 3 sets x 6-8 reps. Rest: 90 seconds.
- Seated Dumbbell Lateral Raise – 3 sets x 10 reps. Rest: 60 seconds.
- Cable Overhead Triceps Extension – 2 sets x 10-12 reps
Day 2 (12-20 reps)
- Dumbbell Seated Arnold Press – 3 sets x 10-12 reps. Rest: 75 seconds
- Incline Dumbbell Curl – 3 sets x 10-12 reps. Rest: 60 seconds
- Cable Rope Overhead Triceps Extension – 3 sets x 12-15 reps. Rest: 45-60 seconds.
- Dual Cable Lateral Raise – 3 sets x 15-20 reps. Rest: 60 seconds
- Preacher Curl – 2 sets x 15 reps. Rest: 45 seconds
- Triceps Pushdowns – 2 sets x 15-20 reps.
How to maintain toned arms
So, your arms are starting to show some definition – but how do you keep them looking that way?
It’s all about consistency, according to Joseph. Once you see results, he advises continuing to train at the same volume and intensity.
‘You don’t need to constantly increase. Just staying consistent with your training and managing your diet will keep your arms looking defined. It’s very much a “use it or lose it” scenario.’
Tom agrees: ‘Once you’ve built arm definition, you don’t need high-frequency arm days.
‘Just keep your workouts balanced, manage your caloric intake, and stay active. If you revert to poor eating habits, that definition will fade – plain and simple.’
Signs you're doing too much
Tom says: ‘Training should challenge the muscles, not damage the joints. More isn’t always better – smarter, more intentional programming is.’
He recommends watching out for the following red flags:
• Persistent joint pain, especially in the elbows or wrists
• Extended muscle soreness beyond 72 hours
• Reduced grip strength or forearm fatigue that affects other lifts
• Inflammation or swelling that doesn’t subside
• Form breakdown due to fatigue
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