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
We’re always on the lookout for great deals and savings and this pretty epic one from Naked Wines sure has piqued our attention this August.
We’re calling all wine lovers: you can now see out the end of summer in style, with a generous £80 off a case of bottles, courtesy of Naked Wines.
Yes, until August 31, you are eligible to purchase a case of 12 wines, worth £144.99, for £64.99 (the equivalent of £6 a bottle). Just type in the discount code: WINES80, and you’ll be automatically enrolled as a Naked Wines Angel.
To become an Angel, Angels pay £25 a month into a wine account to spend on future orders – how good is that? After 30 days we’ll take your first instalment and you’ll get up to 33% off every bottle.
You’ll be asked about the type of wines you’re looking for, given the option of white, red or a mix of both, then you simply go ahead and purchase your case, which automatically has an £80 discount programmed in.
Included in the mixed welcome case are fruity and crisp whites from Spain and France, a pale Spanish rosé and juicy reds from South Africa, Italy, Portugal and Argentina. These are the ideal styles of wines to say farewell to summer and welcome in the start of autumn.
It’s called the ‘Crowd Pleaser Mixed Case’ for a reason. So, whether you’ve got a busy barbecue schedule on the horizon to mop up the last of the summer rays, or simply want to sit in the garden sipping something delicious, weather allowing, Naked Wines has got you covered.
Naked Wines is the award-winning wine club who have flipped the wine industry on its head by cutting out the middle man. They bring you closer to the wine producers who make their world-beating wines and most importantly, they offer fairer prices for everyone involved.
Rob's Expert Wine Advice:
“How about a smooth-as-velvet red Grenache from the South of France for the cusp of Autumn? Try Benjamin Darnault La Repasse or alternatively, his beautiful bottle of cherry-laden Minervois.
For something a little more warming, there’s Sebastian San Martin Antuen Malbec to light up your barbecue coals.
If you prefer a more delicate, lip-smacking, citrussy white from Italy, crack open a bottle of Christian Patat Graciano from Sicily.
Or, if you’re not prepared to let go of summer, La Orpica Seleccion Sintonia Grenache blend is the pale rosé to make you feel like you’re on holiday, sizzling under the Spanish sun.”
With a community of over 700,000 members worldwide, Naked Wines have built a passionate community of wine drinkers. Here, it’s not just about enjoying great wine, it’s about knowing the people behind the bottles, hearing their stories and sharing feedback on every sip.
So, why not grab your case of superb-quality wines while you can, there’s only a week to go!
Terms and Conditions: First time customers and 18+ only. Minimum purchase & bottle number required to redeem. Valid against Non-Angel prices only. Additional restrictions apply.
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22 Aug, 2025 | Admin | No Comments
Our top picks from Simba’s bank holiday sale — with bestselling mattress £150 cheaper
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
Simba Sleep is one of the leading sleep brands out there, and by sleep brand we need plush mattresses that feel like resting on a cloud, decadent duvets, marshmallow pillows…
We have long relied on Simba Sleep, and it may be the worst thing we have ever done. Why? Because we struggle every morning trying to peel ourselves out of the Venus flytrap that is a heavenly Simba mattress.
If you are struggling to sleep, need to update your worn-out mattress, or simply treat yourself like the sleeping beauty you are, then you’re in luck! Simba has launched an unmissable Bank Holiday sale with up to 20% off a bunch of its bestselling products.
We have whittled down the best mattresses to suit every kind of sleeper, whether you kip on your side, front or back.
It’s unknown how long the sale will last (something tells us a Bank Holiday sale says what it is on the tin, though), so we urge you to snap up a bargain while you can.
Remember, the brand will help recycle your old mattress too.
Our top tip to get the most out of your mattress
When your Simba mattress arrives, it will be rolled up so it’s easy to ship. It’s recommended you unravel the mattress and lay flat for a few hours, if not overnight, to allow the springs and foam to decompress and puff before you sleep on it.
Shop The Best Mattresses In Simba Sale
Hybrid Mattress
With over 128,000 reviews, combined with the fact over half a million of them have sold, it’s plain to see this is the ultimate mattress. It offers nine support zones, which includes an Aerocoil spring layer and an extra deep layer of Simbatex foam to provide medium to firm support. It's ideal for those looking for cushion, support and pain relief, particularly on the hips and shoulders. A knitted cotton layer is removable and can be washed to keep the bedding fresh. Available in single to super king sizes, though price will vary.
Hybrid Pro Mattress
A bestselling and award-winning mattress from the Simba sale, which has garnered over 33,000 reviews from shoppers. It features a pure wool top layer, which is breathable and designed to regulate the body temperature of the sleeper.It also boasts a double spring layer with titanium alloy Aerocoil springs that help to align the body and alleviate any tension or pain. The Simbatex foam provides added comfort and promotes air flow, while the SupportCare base prevents roll off at the sides. This medium-firm mattress measures 28cm in depth and comes in single to super king sizes.
Hybrid Essential Mattress
If you are looking for a supportive mattress that is more affordable, the Essential Mattress is the solution, especially as it's garnered five star reviews. The Hybrid Essential Mattress features five supportive zones across four layers, and has a 20cm depth. It utilises Simba’s signature Hybrid design as it features Simbatex foam layer, an Aerocoil spring layer, as well as CertiPUR foam base to ensure your entire body is supported.
Hybrid Luxe Mattress
Looking for something even better than the Pro? The Luxe is your go-to. With a 31cm depth thanks to the nine layers of multi-modal support, this medium to firm mattress will provide the support and cushioning you yearn for. It features a breathable wool top layer with moisture-wicking properties, two layers of Aerocoil springs, as well as an additional micro spring layer, a Simbatex foam insert and SupportCare base. This combination helps to provide your body with the support to alleviate any pains, cushion the body, and regulate the body temperature.
Hybrid Ultra Mattress
The Ultra Mattress is the most elite mattress from Simba, and yes, it's on sale. This design delivers optimum support, pain relief and cooling for the best sleep. Across the 11 layers there is a double layer of Simbatex foam, as well as a FusionCool layer that keeps your bedding fresh and boasts moisture wicking properties to keep the sleeper cool. The PureLift technology also works to support breathability and encourage air flow, while the cool touch Stratos tech layer makes it easy to wash the mattress and maintain its freshness. This mattress also features the 'highest ever spring count', so you are guaranteed to feel fully supported.
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21 Aug, 2025 | Admin | No Comments
‘Ozempic vagina’ is here and women are paying £2,000 to reverse it
These days you can get filler just about anywhere: your under-eyes, cheekbones, nose, and of course lips — and not just the ones on your face.
That’s right, people are now getting filler in their vulvas, thanks to the increasingly-popular practice of labia puffing.
While the cosmetic procedure has been around since the mid-2000s, it’s recently become a hot topic due to the emergence of ‘Ozempic vagina’ or ‘Ozempic vulva’.
Women taking the weight-loss drug, as well as other brands including Mounjaro and Wegovy, have reported changes in their vulvas as a result of dramatic weight loss.
Plastic surgeon, Dan Marsh, tells Metro: ‘When you have a lot of fat loss, the labia becomes empty and stretched, much like when people lose weight and are left with excess skin.
‘It’s causing an increase in patients seeking ways to fix issues of excess skin, especially over the last 12 months.’
What is labia puffing?
Consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist for The Portland Hospital Dr Shazia Malik tells Metro: ‘Labia puffing uses dermal fillers, like hyaluronic acid or fat, to restore volume to the labia majora (the outer lips of the vulva).
‘The minimally invasive procedure is designed to enhance appearance by increasing fullness, smoothness, and symmetry.’
Podcast hosts Caitlin and Emily recently discussed the procedure on their podcast, The Weekly Breakdown, back in December, both claiming that they wanted a ‘puffy p***y’.
But let’s be real, there’s a serious reason some of us want to alter how our vulvas look.
Why do women get labia puffing?
‘The procedure is most sought after by women looking to regain a youthful, fuller appearance due to age, weight loss, or childbirth,’ Dr Malik explains.
All three of the above can cause the labia to look more deflated or ‘saggy’ which can, understandably, lead to insecurity for some.
‘Many women seek the procedure to address perceived imperfections or asymmetry,’ she adds. ‘Aside from aesthetic improvement, labia puffing can also increase confidence, particularly in intimate situations.’
Chafing is another problem which can cause discomfort, and can also be a factor into the decision to get one’s labia puffed.
But others choose to have work done simply due to general self-consciousness about their genitalia’s appearance, which isn’t exactly surprising given how social media and porn contribute to unrealistic body standards.
The Centre for Surgery, an aesthetic surgery based in London claimed labia puffing as ‘contributing to a more aesthetically pleasing and youthful appearance’. It’s a nod to the age-old idea that a woman’s greatest pursuit is to look as young as possible, with a plump vagina seen as the latest accessory for those wanting to remain ageless.
But proving that body insecurity defies generations, a University of Melbourne study that found girls as young as 13 were already worried about how their vaginas look.
‘There is no “perfect” or “ideal” appearance for genitalia—just as with any other body part, every vagina is unique,’ says Dr Malik. ‘Most concerns about vaginal appearance stem from societal pressures and misinformation, not actual issues.’
She warns that while discomfort or health concerns should be addressed with medical professionals, ‘cosmetic procedures should only be pursued if they are personally desired.’
‘Labia puffing is a personal choice, and like any cosmetic procedure, it should be approached with careful consideration,’ Dr Malik adds.
‘While it can offer aesthetic benefits and boost confidence, it’s important you seek procedures for your own reasons and not because of societal pressures or unrealistic expectations.’
The Weekly Breakdown’s Catilin echoed this sentiment, saying: ‘I’m all for any kind of modification, as long as it’s coming from a place of “for me”.’
What are the risks and benefits of labia puffing?
The obvious benefit to labia puffing, as Dr Malik points out, is the restoration of the labia majora’s appearance, giving it a plumper and more youthful look.
It’s also non-invasive, typically carried out with local anaesthetic and carrying fewer risks than surgical alternatives like labiaplasty, along with having a shorter recovery time.
But just because it has fewer risks, doesn’t mean they’re non-existent, and it helps to have all the facts before you cosmetically alter your body.
Dr Malik says: ‘The most common risks include swelling, bruising, and irritation at the injection site. Allergic reactions to the filler material, though rare, can also happen, and some patients may generally experience mild discomfort.’
It’s vital to make sure you’re going to a reputable surgeon too, because there is a chance of uneven results or asymmetry if the procedure isn’t done right. Additionally, overfilling can result in an exaggerated look, which you most likely don’t want.
Even if it all goes to plan, Dr Malik adds: ‘In some cases the filler material could shift or form lumps, leading to an unnatural appearance. There are some more serious complications like infection or damage to surrounding tissues too, but choosing a qualified practitioner can help minimise these risks.’
'I have one labia bigger than the other, I won't be shamed'
When Jill Lissner was just 15 years old, she went to the doctor, asking to have labiaplasty, a procedure which aims to reduce the size of the labia minora.
For those who need a refresher: the labia minora are the inner lips of the vagina (they begin at your clitoris and end under the opening to your vagina).
They come in all shapes and sizes, and there is literally no such thing as a ‘normal’ vagina, or labia, for that matter.
Jill, 25, told Metro.co.uk: ‘Going through puberty, I noticed that one side grew, and the other didn’t. It just felt different.
‘I was convinced men were not going to like this on me. I thought: “Are other people going to find this weird?’
‘[My mum] told me there’s no such thing as normal. She explained that my vulva was going to change too, especially if I decided to have children and give birth – it’s going to be ever-changing.’
After discovering that her sexual partners couldn’t care less what her vagina looked like, Jill’s confidence blossomed and she knew she didn’t need surgery.
It was a long journey to self-acceptance, but Jill is no longer ashamed. She embraces her vulva and even runs a popular popular sex education Instagram page, to encourage others to do the same.
How popular is labia puffing?
There’s been huge amounts of interest in labia puffing recently, with cosmetic surgeon Gerard Lambe from Reflect Clinic seeing a 20% spike in enquiries about the procedure.
‘In fact, demand for labia procedures as a whole are on an upwards trend,’ he tells Metro. ‘We’ve carried out more than ever in the last few years.
‘I performed 42 labia puffing procedures last year and most of these were an additional aesthetic request to a labiaplasty, but increasingly many women simply desire the filler option of a puffing procedure on its own.’
According to Dr Lambe, ‘very few opt for labia puffing out of pure vanity or societal pressures to have a perfect vagina.’
In fact, in his opinion, ‘Most women simply want to feel better in their skin and to solve what may have been an excruciatingly embarrassing issue for years – perhaps from childbirth or the menopause when tissue plumpness and elasticity decreases due to hormones.’
‘I vet and appraise all patients to make sure they are emotionally and psychologically in a happy, healthy balanced state of mind before any procedure,’ the surgeon adds.
‘Most women tell me they’re opting for the procedure to feel physically better and more comfortable, not to please a partner.’
When it comes to costs, Dr Lambe explains he charges up to £500 per ml of filler, so the total cost depends on the amount of filler required.
‘The first ever procedure starts with smaller amounts so that a top up is possible,’ he explains. ‘If puffing is combined with a labiaplasty, that can cost in the region £2,000 to £4,500.
Both Dr Lambe and Dr Malik urge people to do their research before undergoing the treatment and choosing a practitioner, with the former warning: ‘Don’t be tempted by low cost offers as these may not include consultations or follow-up care.’
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21 Aug, 2025 | Admin | No Comments
Inside the rise of ‘Reta’ – the controversial new weight loss jab 3 times stronger than Ozempic
Erin* has been using weight loss jabs for over six months. Desperate to lose 20kg, the 33-year-old first turned to Mounjaro at the end of last year. However, although it helped her shed the pounds, it also made some of her hair fall out, so the retail worker decided to seek out another treatment.
‘Like everyone on weight loss injections I was all over social media looking at reels and TikToks to see what everyone else was using,’ Erin tells Metro. ‘That’s when I heard about ‘Reta’.’
A new weight loss jab, Reta – real name Retatrutide- is making big waves on social media. Despite TikTok community guidelines making clear that the platform does not allow content that facilitates the trade or marketing of prescription and over-the-counter drugs, including weight loss or muscle gain products, the hashtag #reta has been used more than 44,000. On Instagram, there’s nearly 100,000 mentions.
Documenting their progress online, some fitness influencers have declared ‘Reta is the Meta’, while one brags that after using Retatrutide he didn’t eat for most of the day and even just the smell of a burger he cooked at 3pm left him feeling full.
What’s so special about it?
Coming from the same manufacturers of Mounjaro, this latest jab making waves is believed to be up to three times stronger than Ozempic in terms of tackling food noise and suppressing appetites.
‘Everyone seems to have such incredible effects from it, not even a normal type of hunger like you get on the traditional weight loss jabs. The fact it’s so fast acting made me want to give it a go,’ explains Erin.
‘It was easy enough to buy via some click through links. It costs me around £180 for 10mg which I inject a small amount of weekly. I have been on it a couple of weeks, now.’
The catch
Every time she uses Retatrutide, however, Erin knowingly takes her life into her hands – as it’s not approved for use. She’s buying it illegally from unlicensed suppliers who have no authority on how it should be used.
‘I know it’s a risk, but there’s been so much success on social media, it seems quite a small one,’ Erin insists.
As it’s yet to be licensed by the MHRA – the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency – experts are desperately warning Retatrutide users they are playing with their lives by buying the unapproved drug online.
‘The issue is, we don’t really know what the risks are and we don’t know the dosing either,’ Dr Helen Wall, from the Oaks Family Practice in Bolton, tells Metro.
‘It’s certainly not just a stronger version of Ozempic and Mounjaro. It’s working on a different pathway, so that needs exploration in terms of, what the safety is, what the risks are and what the side effects are.
“It’s been developed by Eli Lilly, who are a reputable, well known pharmaceutical company, so ultimately, it may well end up on the market, but at the moment it’s still in clinical trials.’
How ‘Reta’ works
Dr Helen explains: ‘It belongs to the class of drugs called triple hormone receptor agonists; which means it works on three different metabolic pathways. All three either suppress your appetite, stabilize your blood sugar or your insulin response, and make you feel full, and boost fat burning.
‘Doing all three in one pathway means Retatrutide looks more potent than existing treatments like Ozempic and Mounjaro. Ozempic is a GLP 1 agonist only, and Mounjaro works on two of the pathways, so Retatrutide will probably the first one that would work on all three metabolic pathways.’
The results from the early stages of trials suggest people are losing up to almost a third of their body weight, but Dr Helen says that itself comes with risk.
‘30% is obviously a lot more than the existing weight loss injections but that’s expected because of the metabolic pathways it works on,’ she explains. ‘As with plenty of drugs though, there’s lots of illegal counterfeit versions circulating online and you never really know what you’re getting.’
When Metro got in touch with TikTok about the prevalence of Retatrutide on the platform, a spokesperson told us they had reviewed the hashtags shared and removed content that violated Community Guidelines, as well as banning the hashtag #retatrutide.
Erin, however, inists she’s glad she discovered the controversial jab – despite suffering some side effects: ‘I had some heart palpitations when I first went on it, but I made dinner for the kids the other day and even the smell of lasagne cooking in the oven made me feel so full – like I’d had a big Christmas dinner.’
The unknown risks
While the trial results are yet to be published, early reports suggest Retatrutide may increase heart rate, says Fr Helen. ‘In addition, there’s also some concerns being raised about increasing potential bone fracture risk and kidney stones.
She warns that any illegal use mixed with a blase attitude could result in serious long term health issues. ‘You’re running the risk of all sorts of problems. You could end up with electrolyte imbalance, which is dangerous for your heart rhythm.
‘You can go into sudden cardiac arrhythmia, and in a worst case, you could suddenly die. We know pancreatitis is a real issue with these medications, and it can be very serious.
‘It’s simple science too, if you’re losing weight that rapidly, it’ll be at physical cost. You’re looking at potential electrolyte imbalances and issues with bone health to name just two. We also don’t even know what dosing is safe – that’s part of the trial process.
‘I’ve seen plenty of patients when I worked in hospitals with life threatening pancreatitis, and sadly, some of them do die.
‘Medications take a long time to be approved for a reason and until we get the official trial data and approvals no one should be buying illegal versions.
‘Put bluntly, right now, Retatrutide is really unsafe.’
What the makers says
Lilly UK tells Metro: ‘Retatrutide is an investigational molecule that Lilly is studying for the treatment of obesity – it is in phase 3 clinical trials and is not available to patients outside of these trials. Retatrutide has not been reviewed or approved by the FDA, EMA, or any regulatory agency anywhere in the world, and therefore at this time no one can sell retatrutide for human use. Any product falsely representing itself as a Lilly investigational product not yet approved by the FDA, like retatrutide, may expose patients to potentially serious health risks.
Lilly aims to take all necessary actions to safeguard public health. We continue to support international educational efforts by joining forces with non-governmental organisations such as the World Health Organisation, World Health Professionals Association and World Customs Organisation, to warn patients and healthcare professionals about the dangers of buying medicines from unregulated outlets.’
*Name has been changed.
21 Aug, 2025 | Admin | No Comments
I told my kids that Daddy was on holiday — the truth was horrifying
When Laura Lineker’s fiancé started being sick, she thought the explanation was clear.
Their one-year-old, Marnie, had caught a sickness bug from nursery — and it seemed Mathew, 35, now had it too.
But while little Marnie quickly recovered, Mathew’s condition seemed to worsen. And, after a series of tests, Laura and Matthew, who are also parents to Freddie, three, were dealt devestating news.
Mathew was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukaemia, and is currently recieving treatment.
Laura, 34, said: ‘I was shocked — completely horrified.
‘The children are really struggling. We play doctors at home to try to make it less scary for them.
‘It’s still too early to tell how he’s responding to the chemotherapy, but we’re hoping to have some positive news soon.’
It was June this year when Mathew first started being sick. Laura, a solicitor, from Seaford, said: ‘The children bring home a lot of bugs from nursery. We thought this was just a bug or something.
‘But it turned out Marnie had a UTI, so we then thought it was strange that they’d been sick at the same time.’
Laura said she ‘pushed and pushed’ for her partner to go to the doctor, but added ‘he was a typical man’.
‘He thought it would be fine,’ she said. ‘But about four days later, the sickness just got unbearable, and he couldn’t get out of bed, so I called an ambulance.’
The parademics gave Mathew paracetamol, and advised going to hospital the next day if he was still unwell.
But at 5am the following morning, Laura woke up to find her fiancé vomiting and drove him to hospital.
After a series of examinations, blood tests and a bone marrow biopsy, Mathew was eventually diagnosed with acute myeloid leukaemia.
Laura said: ‘We were at the hospital together in A&E when a haematologist came to see us after reviewing Mathew’s blood test results.
‘He said he needed to take us to his ward where it was quieter and we would have a chat.
‘When we got to the ward we were told there were leukaemia cells in his blood, and further tests needed to be done to determine what strain this was.
‘We were so shocked. We had gone to A&E with a suspicion that Mathew might be diabetic — not have cancer.
‘Our first thoughts were of the children. Mathew said: “I have to see the children grow up”. It was the worst day of my life.’
Reeling from the news, the pair didn’t tell their children for a week. ‘At first, I told them that Daddy was on holiday,’ said Laura.
‘It was only when we realised he’d have to stay there for the foreseeable future that we told them Daddy’s poorly and needs to stay at the hospital to get better.’
On August 7, Mathew started chemotherapy, during which he’ll recieve multiple doses over a 20 day period. and is being kept under observation in Eastborne Hospital to avoid infection while he undergoes treatment.
Laura said: ‘The risk of germs is massive.
‘He now has no immune system at all. I’ve not been able to visit him because there’s hand, foot and mouth disease going round the kids’ nursery.
‘If I contract that and take it to him, it will kill him.’
Laura said the situation has been especially hard on Marnie and Freddie.
She said: ‘The children are really struggling. They’re still very young so they don’t really understand the concept of being ill.
‘Our daughter’s too young to understand, but she knows something’s wrong, so she’s really emotional and clingy.
‘Our son is older — he’s asking why daddy can’t come home, and is waking up in the night asking for him.
“He doesn’t know what’s wrong with him. I’ve just had to say daddy’s poorly and the doctors are going to make him better.
‘When we took them to the hospital my son wore his doctor’s coat and hat so he could help fix Daddy.’
The family are now raising money to help cover daily essentials, after Mat has been forced to give up work at his lighting business, and Laura is now no longer able to work full time.
So far, almost £8,000 has been raised for the family. ‘The response has been incredible, and we’re all so grateful,’ said Laura.
To donate, visit Mathew’s GoFundMe page.
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21 Aug, 2025 | Admin | No Comments
This Chinese walking technique won’t get you far — but it could make you live longer
Whether it’s a 10-mile hike, a stroll to the coffee shop or a spot of Japanese Interval Walking, we’re a nation obsessed with putting one foot in front of the other.
And now, there’s another walking technique to try out – and this time, it’s a centuries old practice, hailing from China.
But be warned: Tai Chi Walking isn’t about getting from A to B. Dubbed ‘moving meditation’ it’s about deliberate, slow moments — much like the revered martial art itself.
Here’s how to do it:
- Stand up straight and ensure your head is aligned above your shoulders, with your gaze resting ahead of you.
- Sink down a little into your body, keeping your knees softly bent (don’t lock them) and joints relaxed.
- Shift your weight to the left, and lift you right foot off the floor.
- With your right leg raised, take your time to slowly move it in front of you, and lower your heel, as though taking a step.
- Once your heel is down, roll the rest of your foot forward, placing your weight onto it, in one motion.
- Allow your arms to hang by your side, breathe deeply, and do the same thing with the opposite foot.
- Keep repeating for as far as you’d like your walk to take you.
More of a visual learner? This TikTok video breaks it down even further:
What are the benefits of Tai Chi Walking?
While Tai Chi is an art form that can take years to fully master, the Tai Chi Walk is accessible to beginners.
The slow, deliberate movements enhance balance and posture. A study published in the Journal of Biomechanics, shows the stability benefits of the Tai Chi gait, and how it can aid in preventing falls.
Practicing shifting weight from one leg to another stabalises muscles around the knees, ankles and hips. This also improves proprioception, sometimes known as the body’s sixth sense, that tells you where your body is in space without looking.
Engaging the legs through controlled motions also encourages lower limb strength.
Tai Chi Walking can support cardiovascular health too, with a study published in the American Journal of Medicine finding that Tai Chi can improve blood pressure and quality of life in patients with chronic heart failure.
The motion of lifting and placing each foot while maintaining a relaxed position in the body also encourages diaphragmatic breathing, which allows for increased oxygen intake.
And, there are many holistic benefits. The pace of Tai Chi encourages mindfulness due to the level of focus involved in the movement. This brings a meditative quality to the low-impact exercise that can help to reduce anxiety and improve mood.
And finally, practicing Tai Chi is linked to a longer life expectancy. A 2013 study in Shanghai followed a staggering 61,477 men for five and a half years found that those who regularly did Tai Chi had a 20% lower risk of overall mortality.
Remarkably, this reduction was comparable to that observed in men who jogged or engaged in more vigorous forms of exercise – showing that, despite its gentle and low-impact nature, Tai Chi offers benefits on par with higher-intensity fitness activities.
We gave it a try
As a keen hiker, as well as a yoga and pilates lover, Tai Chi Walking felt like a good fit, so I gave it a shot.
When I took my first few Tai Chi steps it felt a little too easy. It took me seriously slowing down my movements (think slow-motion Kung-Fu panda vibes), to really feel the engagement in my core and my legs.
There are some parallels to yoga: the focus on control, precision and isolating movements. But as someone who struggles to switch their mind off – and prefers more strength-based movement – it didn’t really click.
If you’re looking for a good entry-path into fitness, or are drawn to meditation and mindfulness, it would probably work wonders.
I can appreciate why it’s effective for many people, but I’ll probably just stick to what I know.
Honestly, I mostly just felt silly, and the giggles from my sister watching me practice in our living room sealed the deal!
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Kate Moss for Topshop. Joni jeans. The Ivy Park collection.
It’s been four years since big Topshop closed its doors, and I think I speak for all millennials when I say we never really got over it.
But finally, our prayers have been answered: Topshop is back on the UK high-street.
It might not be exactly what you had in mind though.
The flagship Oxford Street shop, which closed in 2021, remains a massive IKEA. But for the first time four years, fashionistas can pick up Topshop clothes in store, in real life.
It’s all thanks to a collaboration with Liberty, the famous department store on Regent’s Street, a mere stone’s throw from where big Topshop used to be.
The brand teased a UK stockist in an Instagram video, posted 19 August, which appeared to reveal the recognisable Liberty storefront.
Comments on the post quickly noticed the setting, and questioned whether Liberty would be the first to have Topshop’s AW25 collection on the rails.
The news was then later confirmed by Liberty’s group buying and merchandising director, Lydia King.
‘Topshop was such a cultural destination for Oxford Circus and Soho, so I think our location is very important,’ Lydia told Ellle UK.
‘This whole area is obviously steeped in such history and it’s really buzzing at the moment.
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‘To be a part of [Topshop’s] return, when there’s so much nostalgia about the location, and the brand, and the cultural moment, is really exciting.’
It’s not the first time Liberty and Topshop have joined forces. Fans of the Kate Moss for Topshop collections will remember the 2009 range, which featured Liberty prints on babydoll dresses and cami tops.
The Topshop comeback
While Topshop items have been available online via ASOS, shopping online has never quite replicated that buzz of spending hours in the giant shop.
But earlier this year, rumours began to swirl that the iconic fashion brand was making a comeback.
Cryptic Instagram posts back in March left fans ‘crying, screaming, throwing up’, convinced that a bricks and mortar store was coming back.
Only, it turned out to be the return of a dedicated Topshop website, as well as a runway show in Trafalgar Square on August 16.
Is this new development one step closer to getting a standalone Topshop store back? Only time will tell.
But for now, millennials assemble, grab your Jonis, and head to Soho.
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20 Aug, 2025 | Admin | No Comments
Autumn wedding season is almost here – these are the guest dresses we’re loving
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While we can’t believe it’s already August, the cooler months are certainly starting to head our way – and so, therefore, is autumn wedding season.
If, like us, your calendar is full to the brim with weddings then it’s officially time to find the best wedding guest dresses for autumn – and we’re here to help.
Gone are the days of bright, spring and summer tones – now it’s time for moody hues, draping textures and dramatic vibes.
Us? We can’t bloody wait.
To help you get a head start curating your wedding guest wardrobe, we’ve rounded up some of our favourite styles to suit to season, with an array of options to suit the dress code and price point you’re after.
From structured maxi dresses to little black minis, these dresses will have you turning heads and feeling as good as you look.
You’ll find our top picks from brands like Sister Jane, Ghospell, Reformation, Club L and so much more. We really left no stone unturned.
Ready to find your new favourites? Explore our top picks of the best autumn wedding guest dresses below.
Best autumn wedding guest dresses
DREAM Sister Jane Maria Jacquard Midi Dress
Featuring a dramatic sweetheart neckline and bold jacquard texture, this eye-catching DREAM Sister Jane dress has everything you need in a wedding guest dress. Equal parts sultry and sophisticated, it’s designed to leave a lasting impression wherever you go.
Reformation Sera Silk Two Piece
Totally sleek and effortlessly sophisticated, this stunning Sera Silk Two Piece from Reformation may not be a dress, but we can't get enough of it. The 100% silk co-ord features a slim fitting halter top with an A-line skirt, offering a gorgeous, flowing look that's perfect for your upcoming events.
Club L Tiara Green Asymmetric Midi Dress
Floaty, feminine, and full of drama, this stunning Tiara dress from Club L is elegance in motion – but with a touch of modern edge. This midi dress flows with every step, creating a silhouette that’s both ethereal and eye-catching, while the asymmetric neckline adds a contemporary twist we love.
H&M Ruffle-trim bandeau dress
Affordable but by no means boring, this gorgeous H&M mini dress is the got-to-have little black dress for the season. In a bandeau style, it featuresa sheer weave with a decorative ruffle trim at the top, middle and bottom.
Alémais Printed open-back midi dress
Stunning, structured and a total eye-catcher, this on-sale midi dress from Alémais is an absolute favourite of ours, taking you from summer to autumn weddings with total ease. We're obsessed with the open back and empire waist detailing – and the print is to die for.
Ghospell Martina Polka Dot Midi Dress
Sophisticated and sleek, this Ghospell midi dress is an excellent choice for your slightly less formal events. With power polka dots, bold ruching and tie-up twists, this piece is made to move with you – and we're obsessed.
ASOS DESIGN ruffle sleeve high neck maxi dress in vintage floral print
Opt for loud florals in this ASOS DESIGN maxi dress, an eye-catching piece for all your smarter occasions. This gorgeous dress features flutter sleeves, an open v-back and a slim fit for effortless movement.
Omnes Marin Twist Front Dress in Magenta
The Marin dress is a perfect choice for a sustainable satin occasion dress, boasting a twist front, v-neckline and cutout under the bust. Crafted in rich magenta with a peek-a-boo cut-out detail at the back, this fresh take on a classic silhouette is one you'll want in your wedding repertoire.
Reformation Frankie Silk Dress
Sleek and sensational, the Reformation Frankie Silk Dress is a luxe choiceyou'll want to wear for every single wedding. Crafted from 100% silk, this stunning dress features a square neckline, back smocking and a gorgeous back slit.
Sister Jane Lucia Jacquard Open Back Mini Dress
Boasting an open back with white bow detailing, this stunning Sister Jane dress is a playful and utterly gorgeous style for any wedding. It's been crafted from structured jacquard and fully lined for a flawless silhouette.
ASOS DESIGN satin asymmetric neckline maxi dress
Make a statement in this stunning satin asymmetric maxi dress from ASOS DESIGN, an affordable yet utterly sleek piece for the cooler weather. It features a striking asymmetric neckline with volume sleeves and a stunning draped finish. Totally dramatic.
Nobody's Child Black Polka Dot Bandeau Felicity Midi Dress
In a bandeau style with a fit and flare shape, this gorgeous polka dot dress from Nobody's Child is a chic and fun choice for those autumn weddings. Better still? It's got pockets.
Snap up your wedding guest dress now – nobody wants that last-minute rush.
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20 Aug, 2025 | Admin | No Comments
These sandals have been dubbed the ‘most comfortable’ (no breaking-in required)
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When it comes to holidays – whether that’s a city break or beachside escape, I tend to opt for comfort over style, and if that means donning a pair of trainers in favour of sandals, then so be it.
Why? It’s simple. I can rely on trainers to support me through day after day of walking without a sore toe or blister in sight, and I’ve simply never found the sandal I can rely on to do the same.
On a recent doomscroll, I came across TikTok user Talia Mayden’s (@there_y0u_are) ‘investigative’ series on finding the perfect ‘ultimate city summer shoe’.
This shoe needed to be comfy enough to walk in on a summer day for over 25k steps and needed to show some skin (no trainers). Think: flats, Mary Janes, etc.
And after vigorous, in-depth reviewing, there was just one winner: the Camper Dana Sandals.
Camper Dana Sandals
These sleek sandals have been crafted from calfskin leather, with OrthoLite® Recycled™ footbeds and XL EXTRALIGHT® EVA outsoles for total comfort.
Camper Dana Green Nubuck Sandals for Women.
These cross-strap sandals feature the same ultra-comfortable fit but with sleek cross front detailing.
Available in a cross-front and standard design, these sleek sandals won the comfort crown, and had shoppers flocking to grab the ‘ultimate city summer shoe’ for themselves.
Talia said in her video: ‘No breaking in, straight out the box I ripped 10k, and I wouldn’t change a thing.’
While she later says that both styles are equally as comfortable, it’s the standard toe strap pair that she loves first as she raves of its impressive arch support and sturdy heel, finishing that they’re ‘so comfortable’.
These sleek sandals have been crafted from calfskin leather, with OrthoLite® Recycled™ footbeds and XL EXTRALIGHT® EVA outsoles for total comfort.
The Camper Dana Sandals also feature an ultra-wearable heel that makes them as chic for daytime stomping as they are for evening plans.
Unsurprisingly, the sandals have been flying off the shelf since Talia revealed them as a must-have, but there are still a few colourways remaining if you, like me, can’t resist getting your hands on them.
But as with any viral item, you’ll have to be quick.
Not ready to just take one person’s word on it? The sandals have received hundreds of impressive reviews, too, from users who call them ‘incredibly comfortable’ and ‘so walkable’.
‘Amazingly comfortable,’ one reviewer raved, ‘you can wear them and walk in them all day!’
Another added: ‘Love. So comfortable and cute. I would buy in more colours if it was possible!’
A third wrote: ‘It is one of the best shoes I ever had! Great fit for a wide foot. Very elegant and mixable with lots of styles. Love it!”
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19 Aug, 2025 | Admin | No Comments
This is the ideal amount of time it should take you to fall asleep
Sleep is glorious, but also kind of a big deal.
We need, on average, between seven and nine hours of it every night in order to repair and restore our bodies, ‘recharge’ our brain and perform well throughout the day.
One of the worst parts of the entire process is undoubtedly the moment your head hits the pillow and you’re just waiting for what feels like forever to drift off.
For some, this is when they’re counting sheep or focusing on their breathing. For others it’s a time when every embarrassing moment they’ve ever experienced starts to replay on a loop behind their eyelids.
But how long should this period, known as sleep onset, last for?
Well, according to a doctor, once you’ve settled into bed it shouldn’t take longer than 20 minutes to fall asleep.
And if it is taking any longer than this, you might need to make some lifestyle changes.
Dr. Seeta Shah, a sleep expert for bedding company Panda London, tells Metro, that for those over the age of 18, the benchmark for sleep onset is ‘fairly stable’.
‘The ideal is to fall asleep within 10 to 20 minutes of getting into bed,’ she explains.
‘Falling asleep too quickly or taking too long can both be signs that something needs adjusting, but with the right habits, most people can settle into a healthy window.’
Those who are instantly out like a light when they get into bed should be wary, as the doctor warns this could actually be a sign that you’re sleep deprived and running on empty.
And it’s equally concerning if you’re spending more than half an hour lying awake at night trying to fall asleep. This could signify high levels of stress, an inconsistent routine or poor sleep hygiene.
But there are a few simple steps you can take to try and remedy these problems.
Implementing a consistent routine is one of the most important changes to make, so you want to be going to sleep and waking up at the same time every day, even on the weekends.
It’s also crucial to re-evaluate your sleeping environment, making sure your bedroom is a calm space to support healthier, quicker sleep onset.
To do this, you’ll want to think about the temperature, the noise and lighting, as at the wrong level, these can all delay sleep.
‘Keep your bedroom cool, quiet and free from screens,’ Dr. Shah urges.
‘Wind down with quiet reading, soft lighting and try to limit the amoutnt of caffeine you drink late in the day. These are some of the most effective ways to help maintain healthy sleep onset.’
How long it should take children to fall asleep…
While adults can fall asleep in as little as 10 minutes, it can take children a bit longer to doze off.
Dr. Shah explains that the ideal range ‘shifts slightly’ depending on age, but having a consistent routine is still crucial whether you’re a child or an adult.
Here’s a breakdown of sleep onset times for youngsters and the factors that could be impacting how quickly kids fall asleep…
Babies (0-12 months)
In the first year of life, sleep is highly fragmented and unpredictable. Newborns can’t distinguish between day and night, and they rely heavily on feeding and soothing to settle.
By around four to six months, babies start to develop a more regular rhythm, but even then, falling asleep can take anywhere between 15 and 30 minutes once they are laid down.
According to Dr. Shah, this is ‘perfectly normal’ and you don’t need to try and ‘rush the process’. Instead, focus on creating a ‘sense of security’ through gentle, predictable routines, dimming lights, quiet voices, and calm environments. The aim is to help babies associate these cues with sleep.
Toddlers (1-2 years)
For toddlers, sleep consolidates into one main nap and a longer stretch at night.
At this age, bedtime routines become especially powerful. A toddler who has had their bath, a quiet story, and some winding down time will usually fall asleep within 15 to 30 minutes.
If it’s taking much longer, it’s often a sign they’re either overtired, having stayed up too late, or not tired enough, perhaps because they’ve napped too long in the day.
Preschoolers (3-5 years)
At this age, many children will have dropped naps entirely and rely solely on night-time sleep. Here, the sleep onset window narrows slightly, with 15 to 20 minutes being the typical time to drift off.
‘At this stage, stimulation before bed becomes a major factor. If a child has been running around, watching bright screens, or engaging in exciting play too close to bedtime, the brain can remain too active to allow for quick sleep,’ Dr. Shah warns.
School-age children (6-12 years)
As children begin school, demands on their attention and energy increase, and getting enough rest becomes vital.
Dr Shah says most children in this age group should be able to fall asleep within 10 to 20 minutes, as long as they have a consistent bedtime and a relaxing routine.
If it’s taking them much longer to drift off, this could be a sign that the child is having too much screen time of an evening. Alternatively, it could reflect anxieties about school or social pressures.
Teenagers (13-18 years)
If your teen is constantly sleeping in, it’s not necessarily that they’re lazy.
Dr. Shah explains that it’s all to do with their circadian rhythm, which has naturally shifted, making them want to stay awake into the night, and sleep later in the morning.
The ideal sleep onset period for teens is 15 to 20 minutes, however many will struggle to fall asleep within this window due to homework stress, social media and screen use, which all delay the body’s production of melatonin, the hormone that promotes sleep.
As before, reducing screen time and creating a calm space, can help with quicker sleep onset.
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