10 May, 2025 | Admin | No Comments
Doctors ignored my symptoms – but took my boyfriend seriously when he intervened
‘Have you tried being less stressed?’ the doctor suggested. I did my best to hide my frustration.
For the better part of four weeks, I’d been dealing with a full-body rash, which had suddenly become red and increasingly sore. Then one morning in May 2024, taking a shower felt like acid rain.
Upon my GP’s advice, my boyfriend, Adam, and I went to A&E, and this was the response I received. I felt like I wasn’t being heard, my experience invalidated.
Then Adam spoke up. ‘She’s in a lot of pain and needs help,’ he said calmly and clearly. ‘The advice so far hasn’t improved things and it’s getting worse.’
The doctor listened and prescribed a strong painkiller. I felt relief – as well as confusion.
My medical history is complex (at best) and I have grown up feeling dismissed.
I developed symptoms of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), anxiety and depression around the age of nine, all of which were disregarded as a ‘phase’.
Over the last 30 years I’ve experienced a number of mental health conditions – bulimia, anorexia, binge eating disorder and depression – as well as ongoing physical concerns, and I have frequently been told that my mental health is the cause of my physical symptoms.
It wasn’t until anorexia took hold when I was 14 that medical professionals took things seriously.
I had multiple life-saving hospitalisations but was subsequently given many new diagnoses, including bipolar disorder, anxiety disorder and body dysmorphic disorder.
Unfortunately, these interventions came too late. I developed further complications, including psychosis and hallucinations, paranoia and agoraphobia, with complex PTSD (cPTSD) suggested eventually in my 30s as being at the root of it all.
I felt as though I was viewed as an attention seeker – in reality, I was crying out for help.
As I entered my thirties, physical issues including musculoskeletal pain and digestive problems came to the fore. Again, doctors dismissed these as psychological in origin, as though my pain was an extension of my depression.
As a result, I stopped trusting my own body and started believing their dismissals. I went along with whatever was said because I didn’t have the energy to keep fighting. And I internalised that misogyny not to ‘be a burden’ and to stop ‘making a fuss over nothing’.
I also stopped visiting my GP, which, unsurprisingly, impacted my health further, and any treatment I did receive seemed to be massively delayed. At times, I felt utterly lost, alone.
It wasn’t until that A&E experience in 2024 that I finally wondered: Why had it taken Adam’s advocacy for doctors to respond? Why had they responded far faster to his voice than mine?
Finally, I realised: It was the clearest case I’d ever experienced of medical misogyny.
Sadly, I’m not the only woman to experience it. According to one study, the UK has the highest gender health gap out of all the G20 countries and medical misogyny contributes to misdiagnoses, inadequate pain management and delayed treatment.
The same research found that 60% of women in the UK believe their health issues are not taken seriously, and 57% of women have had a negative experience with a healthcare professional.
Those figures are devastating yet there is little being done to eradicate them. Meanwhile, women are still suffering.
Had Adam not driven me to A&E, convinced me to endure the six-hour-long wait to be seen then spoken to the doctor himself, I suspect I would have been cast aside again.
Later that week, when we collected steroid cream prescribed for my rash, it was only thanks to Adam pushing back against the pharmacy staff that I received the correct amount instead of a bottle no bigger than the size of a travel toothpaste.
I’ve no idea why I was initially issued such a small tube, I think it might have been the correct dosage that had been prescribed but too small a dosage to cover my entire body.
The rash covered every inch of my body from neck to toe, but we were given a tube that would’ve dealt with a rash on the back of your hand.
It’s infuriating and unjust that a man’s voice seems to still command more authority than a woman’s in this day and age. Whether I’m getting my car fixed or calling for a plumber, people often defer to my male partner.
This kind of dismissal in healthcare is especially dangerous. It jeopardises women’s wellbeing. I wonder how many of my medical problems could’ve been prevented had I not had my complaints ignored.
No woman should have to feel like they need to bring a man to an appointment just to get the doctor’s attention.
Medical training must stamp out medical misogyny at the source and culturally, we need to encourage people to stand up for themselves when they aren’t getting the care they need.
I’m trying to get better at that. I’ve spent enough of my life waiting to be heard, but no more. I’m starting by calling myself and my internalised misogyny out.
Every single person, of any gender, should be listened to when it comes to their health. We will not stand for being dismissed anymore.
(As told to Hannah Shewan Stevens)
Do you have a story you’d like to share? Get in touch by emailing jess.austin@metro.co.uk.
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10 May, 2025 | Admin | No Comments
People are getting the ick after discovering what ‘Hyrox’ stands for
The world can be split into two camps: those that love Hyrox, and those who would rather do literally anything else.
The fitness challenge is not for the faint-hearted.
It sees competitors run an 8km race, split up by eight fitness stations where you complete functional movements, such as burpees, sled pulls and wall balls.
You can compete alone, in a pair, or group, or if you need an even bigger challenge (because apparently it’s just not hard enough already) you can do it all while wearing a weighted vest.
While it might sound like hell to some, Hyrox is incredibly popular. The German founded company now holds events across the world. According to their website, some races see 8,000 people participate and 10,000 watch, making it the largest mass participation fitness event in the world.
Hyrox challengers love nothing more than posting a sweaty selfie of themselves post race (and who can blame them) but this latest discovery has seen some proclaiming on social media that they’ve got the ick.
Taking to TikTok, PT Ella Rose, who goes by @tattooedgymgirl shared that Hyrox is actually a portmanteau of two words.
‘Don’t get me wrong, I don’t want to do a Hyrox, they look really hard, hats off to you if you’ve done one, but this makes me want to do one even f*cking less. Hyrox is short for Hybrid Rockstar.’
In between chuckles, Ella said ‘I’ve got the ick’ adding: ‘Any video I see of Hyrox from now on I’m just going to cringe.’
The video has amassed over 280,000 views, with comments equally disturbed by the information.
‘I thought it looked pretty cool until you said that,’ wrote commenter. While another added: ‘That made me unwell.’
Other creators have posted similar comments, equally shocked to discover the meaning. Online coach Harry, who goes by @regurgent_harry on TikTok, posted a video, calling the new-found meaning ‘the biggest ick ever’.
In an interview on the Head Start podcast back in February 2023, Hyrox Chief Growth Office, Douglas Gremmen, explained: ‘Christian and Mo [Hyrox founders] wanted to do something with the name ‘rockstars’. They really felt that people who have come across the finish line are rockstars.’
Unfortunately, as Red Bull sponsors Hyrox, they were against using the full word Rockstar, as it’s the name of a competing energy drink. So instead, the founders chose the name Curox, inspired by the Latin word ‘curr’ which means ‘to run’, along with their word of choice, ‘rockstar’.
However, they ran intro trouble again due a trademark infringement, which led to the need for a name change, and they opted for Hyrox instead.
‘They literally tried to figure out the best two letters to come before ROX,’ says Christian. Considering that Hyrox is a form of hybrid training, Christian added that ‘HYROX became a natural extension’.
‘I think is a great name,’ he added. ‘It’s universal. It’s global.’
Do you know what Durex stands for?
It turns out the brand name Durex has a hidden meaning.
The iconic name is actually a portmanteau of three words: durable, reliable and excellent.
It seems pretty self-explanatory and it does what it says on the tin (thank goodness) but we’d never realised the true meaning.
And it’s not the only acronym out there that we use on the daily. In fact, there are words you probably never knew were an abbreviation. Read our full list here.
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Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@Metro.co.uk.
10 May, 2025 | Admin | No Comments
Stop buying cheap Bordeaux — the best value wines are from this French region
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If you’re still drinking £6 Bordeaux then this is your intervention.
You shouldn’t be buying it (unless I recommended it). You should be getting wines from the Languedoc in southwestern France instead – and I’m not being paid by anyone to say that.
You know what, I’m probably partly to blame for the whole cheap Bordeaux buying thing. If you’re a regular reader of this column, you’ll know that I’ve recommended the odd Bordeaux that’s languishing seductively around the £6 mark. But those are the unusual exceptions, you can’t be sipping just any old Bordeaux.
Why? Because it’s a heck of a complex region to know your way around if you’re not looking to waste money, and quality is famously patchy at the lower end. If you’re only spending six or seven quid on a bottle of Claret, you’ll find it either delivers a wow or a woefully mediocre moment, there’s really not much in between.
In contrast, the Languedoc region of southwestern France positively thrives at the sub-£10 mark. What used to be France’s lawless wild west is now like Shoreditch; trendy and gentrified without the price tag of West London (can you tell I’m moving house next year and everything is about Rightmove?)
Tucked along France’s Mediterranean coast, from Nîmes to the Spanish border, this enormous, often-overlooked, region is quietly producing some of the most flavour-packed wines in Europe. There’s no Premier Cru this or Grand Cru that, it doesn’t have Bordeaux’s chateau-clout or Provence’s Instagram appeal. It’s just bang-for-buck-brilliance in a bottle. Not every bottle is brilliant but let’s not nitpick.
So, how does it get away with such low prices then? Well, the Languedoc doesn’t have the market pricing pressure of so many of the more famous regions in Europe. It’s under the radar so there’s less hype, fewer middlemen and plenty of smaller, independent producers doing their own thing. Land is cheaper there (80-times less pricey than Bordeaux) and did I mention it’s huge? It’s France’s largest wine producing region pumping out a third of its wine production. To put it into perspective, that’s more that the entire production of Australia.
But, chances are you’ve just walked by it in the wine aisle. You see, this region is often snubbed by wine drinkers who either genuinely don’t know it’s there, or that are wine snobs looking for flashier names.
Well, just wait until you find out that it’s good quality wine made by maverick winemakers from exciting grapes. You won’t find many fancy names, bloated marketing budgets or bottles with dusty heritage, because that’s not the vibe.
Here are some great wines from the region that should be on your shopping list…
Extra Special Languedoc Blanc, £7.97, Asda
A vibrating white with Mirabelle plum and peach notes and a long-drawn-out key lime pie-like finish. Vibrating sounds bizarre, but hear me out. It has a lively energy that makes you feel like you’ve just been plugged into the mains, in a good way. I recently tasted it at the Asda press tasting and it was one of the standouts of their white wine selection.
Taste the Difference Jurançon Sec, £9.25 (£8.25 with Nectar), Sainsbury’s
Here’s something a little different for you. And when I say ‘a little’, I actually mean ‘very’. Jurançon is a funky little subregion of the Languedoc, parked at the foothills of the Pyrenees. Made from two regional grapes, Gros and Petit Manseng, this dry white delivers sherbety flavours of waxed lemon zest and a riveting dab of earthiness. Told you it was unique. This is perfection if you’re understandably bored stiff of Sauvignon Blanc.
Orange Groove, £9.50, Co-op
Brand new to the range comes this whirling dervish of a bottle. It’s an orange wine, so a white wine left on the grape skins to soak up layers of flavour and texture. Hence the name. It’s made from the some of the most expressive grapes in existence, including Viognier, Muscat and Gewurztraminer, so yes, it’s attention-grabbing in style. Think blossomy, orangey, grapey and spicy.
Taste the Difference Fronton Negrette Rosé, £8.50, Sainsbury’s
This actually has a little more zhuzh than your average Provence pink. Negrette is a grape famous for its extravagant flavours of berries, violets and red liquorice. Hence, this one is deeper in colour with flavours of strawberry sherbet and red liquorice. Grown around the town of Toulouse in the Haut Garonne, Negrette makes inky red wines and deep coloured rosés like this one. You’ll be a superfan in no time.
La Petite Laurette Rosé, £8.85, Co-op
I discovered this beauty at the recent Co-op wine tasting. Provence, who? The Languedoc to the southwest is where it’s at for rosé nowadays, so much so that Bon Jovi even has his own brand from the region, called Hampton Water. I digress. With so much candied strawberry flavours on offer, this should really be priced over a tenner.
Pierre Jaurant Merlot, £5.99, Aldi
For the price, this soft and pillowy Merlot knocks it out of the park. You can generally rely on good old Merlot as a weekday workhorse, but you’d usually have to spend a bit more to get something that’s not undrinkable. Aldi’s delivers smooth and juicy hedgerow fruit by the punnet-load, and dishes out change for a tenner while it’s doing so.
Irresistible Languedoc-Montpeyroux, £9.85, Co-op
If you like reds from the Rhône Valley, this one is firmly up your alley. It’s made from the same grapes and has a similar spiced plum flavour profile. Top tip, a bottle with ‘Montpeyroux’ on the label indicates a higher quality level within the wider Languedoc region. It’s seen as one of the most promising sub-appellations, mostly because of its sun-soaked, south-facing slopes.
Morrisons The Best Fitou, £8.50 (launches on 12th May)
Fitou is the oldest appellation in the Languedoc, known in the past for producing reds that were the wine equivalent of a drunk French farmer smoking a filterless Gitane. There’s nothing rustic and alcohol-heavy about their wines anymore though, this region has had a glow up and now produces elegant and complex wines like this damson and chocolate-loaded red.
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.
10 May, 2025 | Admin | No Comments
From job interviews to first dates – why Aligne has you covered and fashion expert-selected wardrobe essentials
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When it comes to fashion, I love having a clear-out and making space for those all-important capsule pieces. Over the years, I’ve purchased far too many things on an impulse, and now I’m in my 30s, it’s time to find those items that are built to last – which is where ALIGNE comes in.
Renowned for its innovative and trendsetting designs that appeal to a wide audience, ALIGNE’s collections often feature unique, stylish pieces that stand out, making them a favourite among fashion-forward individuals who seek to make a statement with their attire.
What I love most is how the brand places a strong emphasis on high-quality materials and sustainable practices, which resonates well with shoppers these days who are increasingly conscious of their environmental impact.
This commitment to sustainability not only enhances the brand’s reputation but also attracts a loyal customer base that values ethical fashion choices – me included.
I still have jeans and a pair of shorts I’ve owned since I was 21 years old, so when it comes to shopping for something new, it needs to last as long as possible – and be that item I’ll always reach for, whether it’s a job interview, first date, big meeting, and everything inbetween.
Luckily for me, ALIGNE has a plethora of items to suit all needs, and those fashion items (and accessories) you too need to last a lifetime (or 10+ years at least).
Best of all? Compared to some sustainable fashion brands on the market, the price point is very fair – and I have to say a price point I would pay, as the quality matches, far better to other items I’ve purchased in the past that have fallen to pieces.
Naturally as a shopaholic, I’ve picked out some timeless items that I think are perfect for any wardrobe – and not necessarily just for each season either. When I purchase anything, I want it to last from spring until winter and back again – and these handpicked items do just that.
Shop our fashion expert’s picks
Mia Linen Maxi Skirt
This straight maxi airy linen skirt features a back split, dart detail at the waistband, a center back zip, and a side seam pocket. It fits true to size.
Markus Rigid Barrel Leg Jeans
These relaxed barrel-leg jeans feature seams at the knee for added curve, are made from heavier weight denim than the mid-blue Markus jeans to hold their shape, and have a mid-rise with button and zip fastening, along with side and back patch pockets.
Summer Utility Linen Top
This utility-inspired short linen top features a flap pocket design with contrast white stitching, a boxy fit, button-up closure, crew neck, sleeveless design, chest pocket flaps, and a cropped length that sits just below the waist.
Natalie Elasticated Cotton Midi Skirt
This organic cotton circle skirt, based on the bestselling Natalie shape, is softly gathered for a voluminous silhouette and features an elasticated waist, side pockets, and a high rise. It fits true to size, but you can size up if you prefer an oversized fit.
Kimber Mini Denim Dress
This drop waist mini denim dress features a boxy fit, button front fastening, high V-neck, short sleeves, and patch pockets.
Leo Long Waistcoat
This fitted longline waistcoat features a defined silhouette with a waist split, perfect for pairing with high-waisted bottoms. It includes an adjustable back buckle for a more fitted look, button-up fastening, a curved crew neckline, and a sleeveless design.
Arlo Lace-up Striped Top
This lace-up short sleeve striped jersey top features a boxy fit, shirt collar, short sleeves, and contrast navy ribbing at the hem.
Joni Rugby Top
This contrast collar jersey rugby shirt features a boxy fit, half placket with concealed buttons, a shirt collar, long sleeves, and an ALIGNE branding patch on the back of the neck. It fits true to size.
So what are you wating for? Give your wardrobe (and self) the spring glowup it deserves, with these capsule pieces from the hottest brand on Instagram right now.
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9 May, 2025 | Admin | No Comments
'Girlfriend is good friends with her ex, but he feels too close for comfort'
Resident agony aunt Coleen Nolan has advice for an engaged reader who’s feeling worried about his fiancee’s closeness to her ex and what his true intentions are
9 May, 2025 | Admin | No Comments
Olivia Rubin launches new must-have summer tote bag at John Lewis for just £12
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We love a raffia straw bag in the summer months, but we think we may have found a new replacement in the form of Olivia Rubin’s Striped Tote Bag to see us through the summer.
As you know we love our designer bags, as well as the designer dupes from high street retailers. But Olivia Rubin’s Striped Tote Bag exclusive to John Lewis is our latest obsession.
The affordable designer tote bag was available for My John Lewis members to shop exclusively from May 1, but now the oversize bag is open to general sale too, and we couldn’t be happier!
Olivia Rubin Striped Tote Bag
Crafted from recycled plastic bottles, this sustainable tote bag is large enough to house your beach towel, a picnic feast, your laptop, and everything in between. It measures 76cm in height, 43cm in width and 14cm in depth. The tote bag features a laminated interior that is wipe clean, an inner slip pocket, long shoulder straps, as well as a popper fastening.
Speaking about the partnership and the design, Olivia Rubin said: ‘This is the ultimate bag for life! We wanted to bring some joy to an everyday bag that can be used timelessly, so we went with our rainbow painterly stripe print. I have worked with John Lewis before on womenswear and kids, and now felt like the right evolution for me since I started my slow fashion journey.’
Seasonal Buyer at John Lewis, Georgina Davis, added: ‘We’re so excited to launch the Olivia Rubin tote bag exclusively at John Lewis for our customers. The spacious design means it will also be great for everyday use as well as those bigger day trips out. I can’t wait to see the bright stripes out and about!’
The Olivia Rubin tote bag has been crafted from recycled plastic bottles, and transformed into a vibrant accessory. The inside is laminated, which makes it easy to wipe clean if you are accident prone like us. It also features slip pockets on the inside to house your valuables.
This design also features long thick shoulder straps, and the main opening can be secured shut with a popper fastening.
The tote measures 76cm in height, 43cm in width and 14cm in depth, which makes it the perfect Mary Poppins bag to see you from the office, to weekend picnics in the park and beachside fun on holiday.
The bag is only available in the one multi-colour, but why would you need another when the technical horizontal and vertical stripes are running along the bag?
This vibrant bag is not only practical, and vibrant, but it’s also very affordable at just £12. But we predict it will sell out fast – so don’t snooze on this new drop.
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9 May, 2025 | Admin | No Comments
Zara have been trolling us for 50 years but we’re still giving them our money
There’s only one place on earth where you’ll find a dinosaur wearing jewellery, a woman modelling a dress in a swimming pool and a lady crawling with boots on her hands… Zara.
Today marks 50 years of the beloved high street retailer, which first opened its doors in A Coruña, Spain, before conquering Europe, North America, Australia, South Africa and, of course, the UK.
The Zara empire has grown, despite a notoriously user-unfriendly website – or perhaps because of it.
Over the years, shoppers have been trolled by shoes covered in melted ice cream, one model holding a giant mozzarella sandwich, another dragging a bare Christmas tree across the floor.
There’s even an Instagram account, Awkward Zara, dedicated to showcasing the brand’s most bizarre photoshoots, with fans left wondering why half the merchandise is so often difficult to see.
And yet we buy (and buy again), at a time when so many of Zara’s competitors have fallen…
Why we keep going back to Zara…
Laugh at the styling all you want, Zara knows how to create clothing everyone wants. You only have to look back to 2019, the year of ‘The Zara Dress’.
The black and white polka dot number went so viral, it garnered its own Instagram page and saw brides sashaying down the aisle in the ubiquitous, calf-length hemline.
Then in 2022, Zara spawned a new dress of the moment which took the country by storm. The £32.99 Printed Mini Dress featured button fastening, a collar, long-sleeves, and a short-but-wearable skater-style skirt.
For stylist Clare Chambers, aka The Personal Brand Stylist, there’s nothing quite like a Zara. ‘It’s key pieces are like gold dust and I end up on a mission to get them for my clients,’ she tells Metro.
‘There’s also nothing like a Zara blazer for me. Yes the brand has staples, but it’s just great at picking out the key looks or items from the runway and creating an iteration of it that’s affordable and obtainable for the everyday person.’
Even Kate Middleton is known to dabble, most notably wearing a blue Zara dress the day after her wedding in 2011, cause it to sell out globally within 24 hours.
More recently she was spotted re-wearing a black & white plaid Zara dress with a pussy bow and v-neckline to a children’s hospice near Cardiff.
Meghan Markle, meanwhile, has worn Zara rompers to the Invictus Games, while Melania Trump was criticised for wearing the brand’s coat with the slogan ‘I really don’t care, do u?’ to a migrant child detention centre in Texas.
Other celebrities who wear Zara include Taylor Swift, Emily Ratajkowski, Selena Gomez, Sophie Turner and even Queen Letizia of Spain.
And Clare says there’s a reason they all shop there. ‘It makes celebs and the likes of Kate Middleton seem accessible and relatable,’ she explains. ‘That’s why stylists like me use Zara because it’s sophisticated, polished and attainable.’
The stylist always pulls Zara pieces for her super rich clients, regardless of budget. ‘While I might get them a Chloe bag I’ll always weave in pieces from Zara because they’re high fashion pieces with good price points,’ she says.
Zara and the death of the high street
Fashion brands like Jack Wills, American Apparel, House of Fraser and Forever 21 are falling out favour, recording low profits or disappearing all together.
Yet Zara (or its parent company, Inditex) reported £6.4 billion in pre-tax profit in 2024, up 10% from the previous year.
Martin Corcoran, CEO of retail performance marketing company Summit, says there are a few simple reasons why the brand is bucking the trend.
‘I’ve got plenty of Zara stuff, as has my wife, and this is because the brand hits 80% of consumers in the fashion market,’ he tells Metro.
‘They’re on top of trends, they have a good store footprint and have positioned themselves near more premium brands. Being an international brand helps because if one market is down, you’re often up in another.’
Stylist Clare adds that the website modelling its clothes in rather ridiculous ways is definitely a gimmick, and it works.
‘Any press is good press,’ she says. ‘They get people talking about the brand.’
Can it last another 50 years?
Since opening its doors on 9th May 1975 the brand has dominated the fashion market, but will it still be part of our high street for the next half a century?
Zara isn’t immune to controversy, which has earned it some backlash. In 2023 it was criticised for it’s ad campaign ‘The Jacket’ which featured a model against a backdrop that people claimed resembled the destruction in Gaza.
The brand claimed the photos were taken before the Israel-Gaza conflict began and labelled it a ‘misunderstanding’.
Back in 2011, Zara’s Brazillian production was found to have ‘slave-like’ conditions, with workers pulling 16 to 19 hour shifts and some as young as 14 years old. However Zara claimed this was a result of ‘unauthorised outsourcing’.
It’s faced backlash for its sizing too, despite carrying up to an XXL (UK 18) many have found its clothes to be too small for the corresponding size.
TikToker Zoe Towell said she no longer shops in Zara because as a size 12, even the XL dresses don’t fit.
Despite this, the brand remains popular, and Martin explains the popularity of its products and prices allows Zara to course correct and carry on after any missteps.
He also doesn’t see the revival of Topshop – once a millennial Mecca and fashion titan offering a similar experience to Zara – as competition to the Spanish brand.
Martin says: ‘Topshop is starting at the bottom of the ladder. Zara’s competition is Uniqlo, Mango and H&M, which are established.
‘If it’s going to be worried about anyone in Europe it will be Shein, which has paused its ad spending in America and redirected its efforts on Europe to start heavily competing here.’
But what Clare says is unrivalled is Zara’s item quality for price, meaning they’re likely to be around for a long time.
And we have to agree. Sure when we’re dress shopping on the website the models might be holding dinosaurs and polar bears, and be twisted into angles we couldn’t even imagine, but we love it anyway.
If it’s good enough for the likes of The Princess of Wales, it’s certainly good enough for us.
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Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@Metro.co.uk.
9 May, 2025 | Admin | No Comments
Sainsbury’s shoppers can now avoid tills completely due to latest checkout change
Sainsbury’s has been hitting the headlines this week as shoppers were left feeling ‘deeply resentful’ over a change to self-service checkouts.
The retailer has installed AI cameras on the tills, which record shoppers and playback video clips when an item is scanned incorrectly. Customers receive a warning before the footage is shown, stating: ‘It looks like that last item didn’t scan. Please check you scanned it correctly before continuing.’
On social media people branded it a ‘big brother tactic’ and said the might even ‘boycott’ the supermarket – but the latest supermarket update might mean you don’t need to take such drastic measures.
That’s because Sainsbury’s is trialling a service in some of its stores which means you wouldn’t even need to use the self-service checkouts during your visit – or any till at all for that matter.
That’s because customers who use the scan and shop handsets are being allowed to pay on the SmartShop devices for the very first time.
However, this method of payment is only available in two supermarkets currently – one in Richmond and one in Kempton.
According to the company, this payment method is being trialled in order to ‘reduce friction’, while the new self-service checkout cameras are intended to deal with shoplifting.
So how does it work?
After using the handset to scan items as you shop, you simply tap your card on the device at the end when you’re done.
Once the payment has been received, shoppers who want a physical receipt can print one out a checkout or have a copy emailed to them, before returning the device to a SmartShop port and leaving the store.
While some might be surprised by this change, it won’t come as a shock to those who regularly use SmartShop and have the app as customers have been able to pay for their groceries in the app since 2022.
But Sainsbury’s future stores director Darren Sinclair told The Grocer that some shoppers prefer to use the handsets so they can save their phone battery.
He said: ‘It’s a bit more ergonomic. I think about this as trying to reduce friction, improve payment and simplify the shopping journey, as well as the future potential space.’
He also believes this will encourage more people to use SmartShop, but does admit that it’s still early days for the trial and some improvements are needed to make it more ‘user-friendly’. For examples, the devices currently don’t accept colleague discounts and you’re not able to swipe a physical Nectar card on them.
It also won’t be a completely seamless process for those hoping to avoid checkout staff, as some will still have to occasionally check the contents of a customer’s basket, to ensure the contents have been scanned correctly and there’s no theft occurring.
Darren added: ‘We’re a long way away – it’s all about what customers think. We’re going to take our time.’
What do shoppers really think of checkout-less shopping at Sainsbury’s?
Metro’s Courtney Pochin headed down to Sainsbury’s in Richmond to give the new service a go and while she’s a big fan of how much quicker and easier the SmartShop handsets making shopping in general, paying on the handset initially felt a little ‘jarring’.
‘I think some people will really love this change, especially those who are more introverted and don’t really want to have to talk to anyone while out shopping or if they’re in a rush. It also is great not to have to unpack your trolley or basket at the till and repack it all after paying,’ she said.
‘However, something about the payment experience felt a little jarring to me. It’s probably just that it’s new and different, but in the moment it didn’t feel right. I felt like I wasn’t really done with my shop as I hadn’t been to the till and followed the usual process.’
She added: ‘As with any change or update, I’m sure if it becomes the norm, I won’t think twice about paying this way in future though.
‘The only thing I can see being a point of contention for now is the need to still go to the checkout to get a physical copy of a receipt. For those that require a printed one for whatever reason, it does make it feel like you might as well have just paid at the till in the first place. But if you’re happy with an email copy, this won’t be an issue.
‘The random basket checks are also going to slow things down if your handset is selected for this. I completely understand why they do it, but again it does feel like it defeats the point of it as it’s meant to be speedier and checkout-free.’
And Sainsbury’s isn’t the only retailer making a big checkout change like this of late, one shop has decided to go in completely the opposite direction.
Family-owned grocer Booths has recently embarked on a mission to remove self-checkout tills from the majority of its 26 stores.
According to its director, this move has led to a rise in customer satisfaction, a reduction in theft, less shrinkage, and other benefits.
Booths removed self-service checkouts in all but two of their busiest stores in a move they originally hoped would cut costs and speed up the time it took to serve their customers, who were expressing frustration at the self-service tills.
MD Nigel Murray said: ‘In really simple terms, if you’ve got somebody who is doing a job repetitively for six, seven, eight hours a day, they are going to do it faster and better than if you are just turning up to do it once every three days. So, in terms of speed of service we made sure we invested in having people at the tills to serve customers, and the results are clear.’
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9 May, 2025 | Admin | No Comments
This is how long it should take to run a mile, according to your age
Running is a popular way to stay fit, at any stage of life.
In fact, Fauja Singh was 100-years-old when he became the oldest person to ever run a marathon, having only picked up the sport at the age of 89.
That said, how fast and efficiently you can run does naturally change as you get older. And whether you prefer to stick to 5kms — or train for a longer race — keeping an eye on your mile pace is a great way to measure your fitness, especially for beginners.
When it comes to running, personal trainer and nutritionist Joseph Webb, tells Metro: ‘Age can guide expectations, but with smart training and recovery, you might surprise yourself at what you’re capable of.’
So, just how fast should you be able to run a mile according to your age?
Ages 20-39: 7-10 minutes
‘Average healthy adults in this bracket typically run a mile between seven to 10 minutes. Trained runners may push under six to seven minutes,’ Joseph says.
He adds that aerobic capacity (the amount of oxygen your body can utilise during exercise) is at its peak at this age, and you’re also likely to have better joint and tendon resilience to support faster speeds.
But how often should you be running? Joseph suggests three to five runs per week for most healthy adults is a good number, depending on their goals and experience. He advises a mix of long runs, moderate runs and interval speed sessions.
‘Recovery is quicker in this age group,’ he explains. ‘There’s potential to build a good aerobic base and speed.’
Ages 40-59: 9-12 minutes
A realistic time for runners in this age category to complete a mile is nine to 12 minutes. At this age, Joseph says that ‘muscle mass and aerobic capacity naturally decline, unless you counteract with regular training’.
He adds: ‘Recovery takes longer, but with consistency, many in their 40s-50s run similar times as those in their 30s.’
Signs you’re pushing yourself too hard
Many runners feel inclined to push themselves to beat personal records and better their times. However, if you’re dealing with any of these issues, you might want to rethink your training.
- Sleep disturbance or mood swings
- Sharp or stabbing pains rather than a more dull soreness
- Swelling or joint instability
- Extreme fatigue lasting beyond 48 hours
- Elevated resting heart rate (a sign of poor recovery)
He advises those aged 40-59 to set themselves two to four runs per week, a mix of long moderate and interval sessions. This, he says, is the ‘sweet spot’ to balance fitness and recovery.
Joseph explains: ‘Recovery starts to slow, so quality over quantity is key. Longer runs are still possible, but you should be flexible based on how you’re recovering. Strength training becomes vital here to preserve muscle and protect joints.’
Ages 60+: 11-15 minutes
Joseph advises his clients aged 60 and over aim for a mile pace of 11 to 15 minutes. He says two to three runs maximum is ideal for this age category.
At this age, he says: ‘Joint and tendon recovery slows, and impact tolerance can reduce.
‘Maintaining aerobic fitness, balance, and joint mobility is the priority, not accumulating big mileage.’
He adds: ‘Aerobic capacity, muscle strength and joint health naturally shift with age. But training history, nutrition and lifestyle all matter just as much.
‘I have coached clients in their 50s and 60s who outperform sedentary 30-year-olds.’
Why does running feel more difficult as we age?
There are plenty of reasons why running feels more difficult as we get older.
Joseph explains: ‘Without strength work, we lose 1% muscle mass per year after 40, weakening running mechanics and increasing joint wear and tear.’
Joints and tendons also stiffen, collagen stiffens, tendons lose elasticity and cartilage thins.
There’s also a longer recovery time. ‘Older bodies take longer to repair micro-tears and inflammation.’
Joseph stresses the importance of recovery when running. He says: ‘You should prioritise seven to nine hours of sleep per night and add in naps if you have the time and need to.’
He also advises taking rest days and eating adequate protein. He adds: ‘Use foam rolling, massage, stretching and hydration to aid recovery.’
Find running too challenging? Here are some alternative exercises
There are plenty of other exercises to build fitness that are less impactful than running. Joseph says:
- Yoga & Pilates improve flexibility, balance, joint control and breathwork.
- Brisk walking is easier on joints but still boosts heart and lung health.
- Cycling both indoor and outdoor is great for leg strength and endurance.
- Swimming or aqua jogging is a very joint-friendly, full-body workout.
- Rowing on a machine is an excellent combo of cardio and strength.
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9 May, 2025 | Admin | No Comments
From Antler to Smythson, Fenty Beauty to Dune – these are the top picks from our shopping expert this week
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Where do we start with this week! Another mixed bag of weather, shorter week for some thanks to the bank holiday, and before you know it, the weekend is here – along with your next Trend Trove.
Yes, our in-house shopping expert has been at it again, with a magnifier, searching the high street high and low for the hottest deals, news, fashion and beauty advice – along with gorgeous bits for your home – and beyond.
So, what’s the big news this week, and how on earth will she ever top last week? Well… British luggage brand Antler has just launched its new Heritage Collection, celebrating their 110-year legacy. This premium collection blends archival details with modern materials, featuring meticulously crafted pieces like the Heritage Stripe Cabin, Heritage Stripe Trunk, and a limited-edition Heritage Tote. Designed for longevity, the collection includes innovative features such as replaceable wheels, custom aluminium frames, and TSA-approved locks. Each piece undergoes rigorous testing, reflecting Antler’s commitment to quality and innovation. Just what we need after a summer of travelling on the horizon.
Keeping with the accessories theme, those looking for a bag that’s oh-so-versatile for work and play, Daisy Edgar Jones was recently seen with Dune London’s popular Deliberate L bag, styled in a ’90s off-duty look. This best-selling bag, also favoured by Bella Hadid, is a top choice for Spring/Summer, especially in chocolate brown. The Deliberate XL bag became a social media hit last season, selling out multiple times after being worn by celebrities like Katie Holmes. The Deliberate collection, introduced last year, remains a key style for Dune London, with a bag sold every 15 minutes, now available in various sizes and new colours.
And how could we go without mentioning Smythson’s collaboration with Parisian artist Thomas Lélu. Together, they have created a capsule collection featuring Lélu’s iconic sentences on their signature styles. This partnership highlights Smythson’s dedication to the art world and their commitment to working with leading artistic talents. The collection blends a mutual appreciation for writing and humor, celebrating Smythson’s principles of writing, travel, and gifting.
Ooh la la! Naturally, you can find a plethora of home, fashion and beauty goodies below – so take five, get the kettle on and enjoy a brew with a biscuit whilst shopping these delights (if we do say so ourselves).
Orange Crochet Square Zip Up Cardigan
Designed in a striking orange, this cardigan-turned-bomber jacket is composed of crochet squares, each featuring a flower-inspired design with various stitches for added pattern and texture. It includes simple ribbed trims and a gold front zip. Layer it over a summer top or tank for a vibrant, mood-boosting outfit.
Trunk Suitcase in Sandstone
The Heritage Stripe Trunk is a hand-built, made-to-order modern heirloom, combining archival features with contemporary design for lasting durability. This hybrid hard shell case features premium polycarbonate, a lightweight aluminium frame, reinforced corners, and TSA-approved locks. With meticulous details like replaceable wheels and a lifetime warranty, it pairs perfectly with the Heritage Stripe Cabin for seamless travel.
Givenchy Prisme Libre Bronzer Powder
The new GIVENCHY Prisme Libre Bronzer Powder combines four shades to bronze, warm, sculpt, and highlight the skin, providing a matte, sun-kissed finish. Its ultra-light, buildable texture blurs pores and enhances natural luminosity while maintaining hydration. The bronzer, available in three inclusive shades, uses micronized powder technology for comfortable, breathable wear and includes an integrated brush and mirror for easy touch-ups.
The Mediterranean Dish Chiseled Stoneware Platter
Featuring a chiseled border and a washed blue glaze, this platter is perfect for serving mezze and more, just as The Mediterranean Dish intended. Casual yet sophisticated, The Mediterranean Dish's exclusive collection for Anthropologie reflects the brand's palette of sea, sand, sun, and land, inspired by Suzy Karadsheh's Mediterranean childhood and travels.
Wyld Herbs All-Natural Turmeric & Ginger Infused Sea Moss Gel
Wyld Herbs Sea Moss Gel, sustainably sourced by female farmers in the Caribbean, is rich in fibre, prebiotics, vitamins, and minerals. This nutrient-dense gel supports overall health, immune function, and promotes radiant skin. Versatile and easy to use, it can be added to smoothies or applied topically, offering numerous health benefits in a convenient form.
Smythson x Thomas Lélu '365 Opportunities' Soho Notebook in Panama
Paris-based artist Thomas Lélu, known for his viral handwritten quotes, collaborates with Smythson to celebrate the charm of the written word. This collection features Lélu's signature phrases on pieces that embody a love for writing, travel, and gifting. The Soho notebook, handcrafted in England from fine leather and filled with Smythson's gilt-edged Featherweight Blue paper, offers versatile planning for everyday use.
Allegra Sandal
Paige's Allegra sandal offers a modern, feminine twist on the thong flat silhouette. Crafted from soft black leather, it features asymmetrical braided micro mignon straps and a trendy toe ring design. With a slim black rubber outsole and fully padded insole, this sandal ensures flexibility and comfort for all-day wear.
Edelweiss Neck Firming Serum
The Edelweiss Neck Firming Serum from Boost Lab is formulated to lift and smooth crepe-like, sagging skin on the neck. It features Edelweiss extract to support collagen production and Tef seed extract to enhance skin elasticity and firmness. Free from parabens, sulphates, and fragrances, this serum also includes vegan collagen alternatives and is packaged sustainably.
Ruby 6 Drawer Chest in Stone Grey
The Ruby 6-drawer chest is a stylish addition to any living room or bedroom. It features a chic, hand-painted stone-grey finish and brushed gold-effect handles for a contemporary touch. With six spacious drawers and durable metal runners, this chest offers ample storage for clothes, accessories, towels, and games.
Bol One Pot Meal Thai Massaman Curry
A creamy Thai-inspired Massaman curry, infused with fragrant lime, lemongrass, and coconut, and packed with protein-rich chickpeas and red lentils. Enjoy as part of a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle.
Pro-Glow Gradual Tan Body Cream
This nutrient-rich gradual tanning formula provides a natural, buildable bronze. The lightweight cream glides smoothly over the skin, leaving it sun-kissed and hydrated without streaks or stickiness. Enhanced with zesty Sweet Orange Water and delicate floral essential oils, it leaves the skin feeling soft, smooth, and energised. Sustain and boost your golden tan or achieve a gradual glow with this luminous bronzing skincare, enriched with Guarana for a caffeine boost and luxurious moisture from its lipid-rich creamy blend.
Denim Vest
This new Abercrombie & Fitch long denim vest features a flyaway front, button-up closure, and seaming details along the bodice.
Naturium The Glow Getter Multi-Oil Body Butter
This ultra-nourishing body butter is formulated with a blend of safflower seed oil, coconut oil and shea butter for deep hydration and a natural, healthy sheen. It melts into skin, leaving a smooth, luminous finish that lasts and it has the most delicious, subtle vanilla and coconut scent.
Gloss Bomb Ice Cooling Lip Luminizer in Melon Chillz
The Gloss Bomb Ice Cooling Lip Luminizer in Melon Chillz from Fenty Beauty is a vegan and cruelty-free lip gloss that delivers a refreshing, minty cooling effect. This lightweight formula provides a juicy, wet-look shine while hydrating the lips with conditioning shea butter and vitamin E. Perfect for a sun-kissed glow, it ensures comfort and a fuller appearance without stickiness.
Deliberate L Woven Shoulder Bag
This Deliberate bag exemplifies Dune's dedication to exceptional, thoughtful design. Featuring our signature artisanal weave construction, this modern yet timeless silhouette is updated in the season's trending colours. Crafted from premium materials, the hand-woven texture adds a luxurious finish. Complete with a branded closure, it includes an adjustable strap for hands-free styling.
Poppy Delevingne Navy Tie Neck Alexa Bodysuit Top
Featuring a halter neck and ribbon tie, we think the Poppy Delevingne Navy Tie Neck Alexa Bodysuit Top would look fantastic worn with white palazzo jeans or a navy midi skirt for an easy, comfortable but stylish outfit that’s perfect for summer.
JVN Hair Complete Air Dry Cream
JVN Complete Air Dry Cream helps tame frizz while providing gentle hold and definition for all hair types without crunchiness or flaking. Enriched with chia seed and linseed extracts for touchable hold, hemisqualane to reduce damage, and moringa seed oil for added softness and shine, it offers 24-hour frizz control and protection against humidity and UV damage. Sustainably packaged in a recyclable aluminium tube, this silicone- and sulphate-free cream moisturises hair and strengthens locks.
Mango Haze Mikado Diffuser
The MANGO HAZE mikado diffuser from Mango Home is a 200 ml fragrance diffuser designed to evoke a sense of home and belonging. It features top notes of orange, cassis, and milk, middle notes of mango and sugar cane, and a base of white musk. Sustainably made in Spain, it includes a handmade paper pulp label. To enhance the fragrance, it is recommended to rotate the reeds weekly.
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