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New year, new me. The first month of the year is synonymous with sobriety as it marks a reset for many following the festive months, full of late nights, overindulgence and one too many margs. In line with this, The Ivy Collection has launched an innovative menu of mocktails using exceptional alcohol-free spirits and energising flavours, alongside low and no alcohol beers and sparkling wine. Perfect for enjoying while connecting with family and friends, post festive period, the  Social Sips  range provides a great reason to get out and socialise without breaking any Dry January or New Year wellness goals. Low and no alcohol doesn’t mean no and low flavour when it comes to the innovative mocktails making up the  Social Sips  menu. Take, for instance, The Geranium Collins. This mocktail gently blends Tanqueray 0% with geranium syrup and ginger ale, topped with fresh mint and lime for a refreshingly light tipple. For something fruitier and more vibrant while catching up with friends, the Orchard Lemonade is super quenching with warm and aromatic Seedlip Spice 94 joins apricot and elderflower cordial and soda water, finished with Tajin Dust for a beverage bursting with flavour with every sip. Feeling lucky? The Lucky Shandy is a great option; made with Lucky Saint 0.5%, along with a punchy sour cherry, red grape & hibiscus cordial, apricot & grape soda, and topped with Raspberry Sugar Dust. Alternatively, Lucky Saint 0.5% abv beer is also available for those keen to enjoy a full-flavoured but low-alcohol beverage. Guests at The Ivy can also elevate the start to 2025 with a glass of Wild Idol Naturally Alcohol-Free Sparkling Wine and enjoy bubbles without the alcohol. There are plenty of tempting choices. So, whether January is dry, damp, or with chances of some drizzle, there’s a tipple for everyone to enjoy, guilt-free, while connecting with family and friends at The Ivy Collection restaurants.  To book a table, visit  https://ivycollection.com/book-a-table/

When I first stepped into Voyage by Adam Simmonds, located in the vibrant area of King’s Cross, I knew I was in for something special. The restaurant’s sleek, understated decor set the stage for what promised to be an unforgettable dining experience. As the evening unfolded, it became clear that Adam Simmonds had delivered a menu that was as innovative as it was delicious. What truly stood out to me was the balance between the two tasting menus on offer—one focused on meat and the other entirely vegetarian. It’s rare to see a restaurant give equal attention to both, but Voyage succeeds beautifully. While the meat dishes were brilliant in their execution, I found myself captivated by the vegetarian menu, which elevated humble ingredients like celeriac and beetroot to dazzling heights. Celeriac: A Revelation Celeriac might not sound like the star of the show, but in Simmonds’ hands, it became just that. One dish in particular stole my heart—a slow-roasted celeriac served with a silky, nut-based sauce and a subtle smokiness that lingered in the best way. The interplay of flavours was masterful, with hints of sweetness, a whisper of tang, and a perfectly crisp garnish to round it all out. Another standout featured celeriac paired with fermented accents, adding brightness and complexity. It was a dish that showcased the kitchen’s philosophy: respect for the ingredient, combined with boundless creativity. And one that even the meat-eaters were amazed at, which says a lot. Beetroot: A Showstopper Beetroot had its own moment of glory, appearing in a surprising and delightful form, with blackcurrant. The beetroot tartare was a work of art, with its jewel-toned hues and a perfect balance of earthy, herbaceous, and citrusy notes. Every bite was a reminder of how transformative thoughtful cooking can be. Wine Pairings The wine pairings at Voyage were nothing short of perfection. Each glass seemed to be tailor-made for its accompanying dish, enhancing the flavours and elevating the overall experience. A crisp white with the celeriac brought out its sweetness, while a robust red served alongside the beetroot dishes highlighted their earthy depth. Even the dessert wine was thoughtfully chosen, providing a delicate balance. It was clear that as much care had gone into selecting the wines as crafting the dishes themselves. The Chef’s Table Experience One of the highlights of the evening was sitting at the chef’s table, where the bar wraps around the open kitchen, offering a front-row seat to the culinary artistry. Watching the chefs work was mesmerising—they moved in perfect unison, each motion deliberate and efficient. The atmosphere in the kitchen was calm and composed, a far cry from the chaotic energy we’re used to seeing on TV. It was a masterclass in teamwork and precision, adding a new layer of appreciation to the meal. A Journey to Remember What struck me most about Voyage was the sense of adventure in every course. The vegetarian menu held its own against the meat dishes, proving that plant-based dining can be just as indulgent and exciting. Each plate felt like a carefully crafted love letter to the ingredients, and every bite invited me to savour the journey. Voyage by Adam Simmonds is a destination in every sense of the word. Whether you’re drawn to the exceptional meat dishes or eager to explore the vegetarian creations, this is a place that promises to leave an impression. If you find yourself near King’s Cross, make the time to experience it—it’s a culinary adventure worth taking.

The superyacht industry is set to enter a groundbreaking phase in 2025, with some of the most ambitious and extravagant vessels ever built preparing to make their debut. From record-breaking designs to cutting-edge sustainability efforts, this year is poised to redefine luxury on the water. Leading the fleet is REV Ocean, a staggering 194.9-metre behemoth that will officially become the world’s largest yacht, surpassing AZZAM, which has held the title since 2013. Alongside this monumental launch, industry titans such as Lürssen, Feadship, Oceanco, and Amels are unveiling their latest creations, pushing the boundaries of craftsmanship, engineering, and bespoke design. With sustainability, innovation, and exclusivity at the forefront, the superyacht landscape in 2025 promises to be more spectacular than ever. Here’s a closer look at the biggest launches, industry leaders, and visionary brands shaping the future of yachting. REV Ocean – The New Largest Superyacht (194.9m, Vard Shipyard) Stealing the crown from AZZAM, which has held the title of the world's largest yacht since 2013, REV Ocean is a staggering 194.9 metres long, surpassing its predecessor by 14.3 metres. Built by Vard Shipyard, this behemoth is designed to be more than just a luxury yacht—it is a research vessel with advanced oceanic exploration capabilities. It represents a shift toward eco-conscious yachting without compromising on grandeur. Oceanco's Y722 – The Dutch Giant (111m, Rank 51) Oceanco, a dominant force in Dutch yacht building, is set to launch Y722, a 111-metre superyacht that masterfully blends cutting-edge technology with timeless aesthetics. Known for its ‘Simply Custom’ approach, Oceanco offers owners a fully bespoke experience, tailoring each yacht to their exact vision and lifestyle. Project Deep Blue (130m, Lürssen Yachts, Rank 27) One of the most anticipated launches of 2025, Project Deep Blue from German shipyard Lürssen boasts state-of-the-art technology, sleek design, and a commanding presence at 130 metres. Lürssen, known for crafting some of the largest superyachts, continues to push boundaries with this monumental vessel. Project Tanzanite (120m, Amels, Rank 36) Marking a historic moment for Amels, Project Tanzanite is its biggest yacht to date at 120 metres, also making it the largest yacht ever built in the Netherlands. This milestone highlights Amels’ ability to produce large-scale superyachts while maintaining impeccable design and engineering standards. Shackleton (107m, Lürssen Yachts, Rank 63) Another impressive launch from Lürssen, Shackleton is a 107-metre vessel designed for extreme conditions. This yacht is expected to combine exploration capabilities with ultra-luxury, making it a standout in the expedition yacht category. Project JASSJ (103m, Lürssen Yachts, Rank 73) Project JASSJ continues Lürssen’s dominance in the 100m+ yacht sector. At 103 metres, this superyacht exemplifies innovation and world-class craftsmanship, catering to the elite yachting community. Project 1013 (101m, Feadship, Rank 76) & Project 824 (100m, Feadship, Rank 78) Dutch shipyard Feadship is preparing to launch two new yachts in 2025: Project 1013 (101m) and Project 824 (100m). Both vessels are expected to set new standards in luxury, craftsmanship, and design, reinforcing Feadship’s reputation for excellence. Industry Leaders and Their 2025 Contributions Damen Yachting Damen Yachting continues to make waves with its signature Amels, Xplorer, and Yacht Support platforms. Among its key projects in 2025: Amels 60 & Amels 80 – Continuing Amels' legacy of semi-custom yachts with impeccable craftsmanship. Xplorer 60 & Xplorer 80 – Built for adventure, seamlessly combining exploration with luxury. Yacht Support (YS 53) – A new addition designed to provide full-scale support for yacht owners. Oceanco Oceanco remains a leader in innovation, consistently setting new benchmarks in yacht building. The company’s focus on sustainability and customisation ensures that each vessel is a unique masterpiece, reflecting the owner’s vision while incorporating state-of-the-art technology and design. Edmiston As one of the world’s leading yacht brokerages, Edmiston offers expertise in: Yacht sales, charter, and new construction. Comprehensive management strategies for high-end yacht ownership. Supporting global marine conservation efforts through the Edmiston Foundation. Winch Design A pioneer in luxury yacht interiors, Winch Design is redefining superyacht aesthetics in 2025 by: Incorporating sustainable materials and eco-friendly design principles. Showcasing a portfolio of standout superyacht interiors that blend craftsmanship with innovation. Elevating bespoke yacht interiors with cutting-edge technology and artisanal detailing. H2 Yacht Design Specialising in custom yacht interiors, H2 Yacht Design continues to push boundaries with: Bespoke projects that set new standards for both interior and exterior styling. A commitment to creating distinctive, one-of-a-kind superyachts tailored to each owner’s preferences. www.superyachts.com

Katrina Aleksa, co-founder of the Association of Women in the Arts (AWITA), is an influential figure in the world of art curation and investment. Her journey into this realm has been shaped by a lifelong passion for art—a passion that has not only defined her career but also provided her with a deep sense of identity and purpose. For Katrina, art is more than a profession; it is a way of life that fosters creativity, connects people, and reflects individual stories. At the age of 22, Katrina found herself standing in a New York gallery, surrounded by esteemed art dealers she admired. It was a transformative moment that ignited her ambition to be a part of that prestigious world. Years later, in 2024, she had the opportunity to stand before 230 women at Christie’s auction house to introduce the AWITA conference. This full-circle moment was a powerful affirmation of her dreams and an illustration of how far she had come in the art world. Katrina reflects on this pivotal experience, recognising the significance of pursuing one’s vision, no matter the obstacles. “It reminded me to embrace change, evolve, and continually seek new beginnings,” she says. This moment reaffirmed her belief in the importance of following one’s passion and remaining open to new opportunities. "We all come from different starting points and carry our own stories..." Katrina’s career has always been rooted in a commitment to inclusivity and diversity in the art world. She believes that art should be a reflection of the people who create and experience it. “We all come from different starting points and carry our own stories,” she explains. For Katrina, inclusivity goes beyond being a checkbox; it is a core part of everything she does. She strives to create spaces where creativity thrives and where everyone—artists, clients, and colleagues alike—feels valued and heard. By fostering these environments, Katrina believes she is helping to build a richer, more meaningful creative process. This approach allows for deeper connections and allows all involved to bring their authentic selves to the table. "Having children grounds you in the present while making you more future-focused." In the luxury sector, Katrina has worked tirelessly to align art with the values of high-end brands. Art in luxury spaces is more than decoration—it enhances the identity of brands and individuals while offering both emotional resonance and measurable returns. “Balancing art and investment means offering emotional resonance while delivering measurable returns,” Katrina explains. For her, art and luxury are not just complementary; they are natural partners that enhance the value of the other. Motherhood has profoundly shaped Katrina’s professional journey. She describes the experience as transformative, shifting her focus toward long-term planning and strategic thinking. “Having children grounds you in the present while making you more future-focused,” Katrina explains. This new perspective has allowed her to balance her responsibilities and approach her art advisory and investment work with a sense of clarity and purpose. Her ability to combine the demands of motherhood with her career has not only made her more resilient but also more intentional in her decision-making. She believes that this balance has allowed her to be more effective and purposeful in her work. For women striving to juggle career ambitions with family life, Katrina offers valuable advice: prioritize your happiness and health. Inspired by the book Outlive  by Peter Attia and Bill Gifford, she stresses the importance of reducing chronic stress and fostering meaningful connections. “When we focus on staying happy and healthy, we can show up as our best selves for both our families and careers,” she says. Katrina believes that true fulfilment comes from building a life that prioritizes both well-being and professional ambitions. "When we focus on staying happy and healthy, we can show up as our best selves for both our families and careers." As Katrina steps beyond her role at AWITA, her passion for art, inclusivity, and investment continues to drive her forward. Whether curating collections, advising clients, or fostering collaborations in the luxury space, she remains committed to empowering others and shaping the future of the art world. Her work exemplifies the power of passion, perseverance, and the importance of creating meaningful, inclusive spaces within the industry. Looking to the future, Katrina is eager to continue inspiring others to dream boldly, work tirelessly, and embrace change with grace and confidence. Through her journey, she has proven that with passion, hard work, and an open heart, anyone can break barriers and make a lasting impact.

Nestled in the heart of London’s Regent’s Park, a remarkable Grade I listed property has entered the market with United Kingdom Sotheby’s International Realty for an astounding £20,000,000. Designed by the celebrated Georgian and Regency architect John Nash, this exquisite double-fronted villa is a testament to timeless elegance and architectural mastery. Spanning an impressive 8,156 square feet, the villa is situated on the east side of Regent’s Park’s prestigious outer circle. The location offers unparalleled views and a serene environment, making it one of London’s most sought-after addresses. Upon entering, visitors are greeted by an imposing entrance hall with soaring ceilings that set the tone for the grandeur within. The spacious drawing room is a perfect blend of history and luxury, featuring period details such as a hand-carved marble fireplace and a striking chandelier. These timeless features provide an elegant backdrop for entertaining guests or enjoying quiet moments of reflection This magnificent residence has been thoughtfully designed to cater to every need. Key features include: A Gym:  Perfect for maintaining a healthy lifestyle in the comfort of your home. Wine Store and Walled Garden:  An ideal setting for connoisseurs and those who enjoy outdoor relaxation. Generously Sized Dressing Room:  Offering an abundance of space for a refined wardrobe. Self-Contained Mews House:  Perfectly suited for live-in staff or as a private retreat for guests. The villa’s layout effortlessly combines practicality with sophistication, making it an extraordinary find in London’s property market. John Nash’s influence on London’s architectural identity is undeniable, and this property is a shining example of his genius. From the Georgian façade to the intricate details within, every aspect of this home exudes heritage and craftsmanship. Properties of this calibre rarely become available. This Gloucester Gate villa is not just a home but a piece of history—a perfect blend of luxury, location, and legacy. For further details or to arrange a viewing, contact United Kingdom Sotheby’s International Realty. This is your chance to own a true masterpiece in one of London’s most coveted neighbourhoods. See the full listing here: https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/properties/buy/house-for-sale-london-regents-park-gloucester-gate-44286/ .

British countryside charm meets innovative lighting design in the latest collaboration between Joules  and där Lighting . The new collection blends playful yet sophisticated aesthetics, offering a range of lamps and fixtures designed to bring warmth, elegance, and a touch of British eccentricity into any home. A Collection with Character This thoughtfully curated range features a variety of standout pieces, each exuding the heritage and personality that both brands are known for. The Harewood Floor Lamp , with its slender rubberwood base, is perfect for minimal spaces, while the Apsley Table Lamps , with their bold pleated shades, add a striking statement to any bedside or hallway. For those looking to elevate their interiors, the Audley Pendant —crafted from durable ceramic—offers a timeless yet modern feel, ensuring longevity in both style and function. The collection also includes exquisite wall lights, such as the Wallaton Wall Light , designed to add a sophisticated glow to any space. A Heritage of Quality and Design Founded in 1971, där Lighting  has built a reputation as one of the UK’s leading lighting designers and distributors. The Banbury-based family business remains dedicated to creating unique, high-quality pieces that transform homes with light and ambience. With over 40 years of experience, där Lighting  partners with specialist retailers who provide expert guidance, ensuring customers receive the best in both service and design. Where to Buy? The full Joules x där Lighting  collection is available for purchase online now at darlighting.co.uk . With a blend of function, craftsmanship, and charm, this collaboration is the perfect way to refresh your interiors for the season ahead.

An astonishing 2 million people in the UK alone are thought to suffer from seasonal affective disorder (SAD), a period of low mood triggered by weather shifts, aka the ‘winter blues'.    Luckily, Catharina Bjorkman, Scandi lifestyle expert at Contura , explains how, by embracing a few simple habits from our Northern European neighbours, we can learn how to thrive in the remaining months of winter – rather than just enduring them!     Catharina says: “The Scandinavians are no strangers to long, dark, and icy winters; sub-zero temperatures often last for several months in some of the northern regions [2] . However, the season is rarely seen as something to dread and, believe it or not, many Scandinavians even look forward to it. Credit: VisitNorway “This positive sentiment towards the season is unsurprising. Scandinavian philosophies such as mys, the concept of finding contentment in cosiness, and friluftsliv , which emphasises the benefit of spending time in nature no matter what the weather, are at the heart of both the individual and collective mindset within the region.   “By reframing winter as a time to embrace – rather than battle – the colder days and longer nights, whether it’s getting out to enjoy the beauty of winter landscapes or hunkering down to unwind with a cosy evening in, you can transform your life for the better.”   Read on for Catharina’s Scandi-inspired guide to thriving for the remainder of the winter season…   Follow friluftsliv The Scandinavian philosophy of friluftsliv is rooted in the belief that time in nature promotes wellbeing. Yet, as the temperature drops outside, so too can our desire to leave the house. Succumbing to this temptation too frequently can be detrimental to your wellbeing as, by reducing time spent outdoors, you are also more likely to be limiting physical activity and increasing the risk of isolation.   As a rule, try to ensure that you get a daily dose of nature, even if this is simply strolling outside in the morning to listen to the birds chirping away – a Swedish practice known as gökotta .    Focus on the joys of nature in winter; from the ability to catch vivid sunrises and sunsets during waking hours, to the satisfying crunch of footsteps on frosty grass.   Dress up… There is a popular saying amongst Scandinavians that ‘there is no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing’. Rather than seeing rain, wind, and snow as something to be avoided, the Scandi approach whatever the weather is simply to dress appropriately and get outside to enjoy it, aka keep calm and carry on.   If it’s cold out then layer up with a woolly hat, scarf, gloves, thermal layers, socks – whatever you have that will keep you cosy. Consider taking a flask of your favourite hot drink for an added dose of warming comfort. If it’s wet, as it often is in the UK, then be sure to dig out a sturdy umbrella, waterproof layers and water-resistant shoes with thick soles.   … Or dress down Alternatively, use the winter season to embrace popular Scandinavian pastimes such as sweating it out in a sauna or cold-water swimming, both of which require little-to-no clothing. When done right, both activities have been linked to a host of physical and mental benefits, from easing muscle tension to boosting energy levels. Whilst cold-water swimming, or just taking a dip, can be a great way to revitalise the body – whether in a tub in the garden, the sea, or your local lido – a trip to the sauna offers the perfect, relaxing escape from the winter chill.   Either way, both tech-free activities are perfect opportunities to mentally reset. Consider practicing meditative breathing exercises to further enhance the benefits.     Keep moving Regular exercise is another key aspect of maintaining physical and mental wellbeing, with benefits including improved mood, cardiovascular health, and energy levels. [3]   Whilst some forms of physical activity might be less appealing, practical, and even dangerous during the winter months, due to lack of visibility and icy surfaces, remember that exercise encompasses a whole range of movement – not just high-intensity and sweat-inducing workouts.   Everyone is different so be sure to move your body in a way that suits you. Our lives are constantly changing – whether it’s our routine, stress levels, or the weather around us – so keep in mind that what feels good one day, week, or month, might not the next and simply adjust your routine accordingly.   Whilst one day you might seek to get your daily movement within the comfort of your own home with a calming yoga routine in your living room or solo dance session in the kitchen, the next you might find an invigorating power walk around the block or a group class at your local gym more suitable.   Find time for fika Winter is also the perfect season for fika , another pastime central to Swedish culture. Fika is about taking time, especially during the working week, to unwind, socialise, and strengthen bonds with those around you over coffee and a pastry, or two.   The chill of the winter weather makes the warming sensation of a sticky, sweet pastry and a steaming mug of tea or coffee more comforting than ever.   Likewise, sharing this experience with a family member, friend, or colleague – whether in content silence, reminiscing over a fond memory, opening up about a worry, or loudly laughing to a shared joke – will help brighten even the dreariest of days.   Hunker down with mys The Swedish concept of mys is centred around the restorative benefits of actively setting aside time to unwind by hunkering down in the calming, cosy comforts of home.   Winter is the perfect time to embrace mys and enjoy the mental reset it gives you. The dark, cold evenings provide the optimal backdrop for a cosy night in.   At its best, it involves a crackling fire, soft blankets, comfy clothes, delicious food and drink – from a glass of wine and a hearty pie, to a herbal tea and some popcorn – and great company, whether that be a book, furry friend, or partner.   When done right, you will start to find greater value in choosing to spend an evening at home and, in turn, feel more empowered to only say yes to invitations you feel excited about, rather than feeling obliged to accept simply because you are free. TGIF - thank goodness it’s fredagsmys! That said, staying cosy at home need not be antisocial. Fredagsmys – which literally translates to ‘cosy Friday’ – is a beloved tradition in Sweden centred around spending Friday evenings at home with family and friends in order to enjoy a collective sense of cosiness.   So, this winter, instead of heading to the local pub or hitting the gym after a long work week, why not start your weekend in a gentler fashion by inviting your loved ones around for a cosy Friday evening?   Hosting fredagsmys need not be stressful: low-fuss foods such as tacos, pizzas, crisps, and pick ‘n’ mix selections have come to be staples of the tradition, entertainment often takes the form of a movie or simple board game, and the setting for the proceedings is typically a sofa or some comfy cushions on the floor.   For more information, please visit www.contura.eu .

This winter, Lightroom, London is hosting a series of Vogue Conversations, which opened on Tuesday 14th January with the British Fashion Council’s womenswear designer of the year, Simone Rocha, will be talking to British Vogue’s Fashion Features Director Julia Hobbs. Fashionistas you won’t want to miss this stellar lineup; Sarah Burton (Creative Director, Givenchy), John Galliano (Fashion Designer), Andreas Kronthaler (Creative Director, Vivienne Westwood), Daniel Lee (Chief Creative Officer, Burberry), Seán McGirr (Creative Director, Alexander McQueen), Pierpaolo Piccioli (Fashion Designer), Simone Rocha (Fashion Designer) and Martine Rose (Fashion Designer) are amongst the first speakers to be announced, with more icons of fashion and creativity to appear in the coming months. Lightroom, just ten minutes walk from King’s Cross, is home to Vogue: Inventing the Runway, a new exhibition which charts over 100 years of catwalk fashion, from the intimate salons of the 19th century to the viral extravaganzas they have become today. Featuring over 60 designers, brands and houses and drawing on Vogue’s extensive archive, Vogue: Inventing the Runway has already welcomed thousands of fashion fans through its doors in the first weeks of opening. Vogue Conversations will commence in January and run until the exhibition closes in April, with ticket holders being able to watch the show and be part of an intimate conversation to follow. Vogue editors will interview these special guests and include British Vogue’s Head of Editorial Content Chioma Nnadi, Vogue Editor at Large Hamish Bowles, Vogue Chief Critic Sarah Mower, Deputy Director, Global Fashion Network Laura Igham and Luke Leitch, writer for Vogue Business, Vogue Runway and Vogue. Further dates for Vogue Conversations are: 28th January | Seán McGirr 4th February | Daniel Lee 11th February | Pierpaolo Piccioli 25th February | Andreas Kronthaler 18th March | Martine Rose Coming Soon | John Galliano and Sarah Burton Tickets begin at £25 for adults and £15 for students and are on sale now. Visit Lightroom’s website: https: //lightroom.uk/ for further details.

As winter frosts settle, the longing for the whimsical charm of warmer months grows stronger. The cottagecore  trend, synonymous with vintage charm and natural beauty, is making a seasonal comeback—this time extending beyond interior spaces. Recent data reveals a 76% increase in searches for cottagecore , with ‘cottage garden’ searches rising by 68%. Craig Wilson, gardening expert and founder of Gardeners Dream, shares his expert advice on curating the perfect cottagecore garden. From plants to furniture, here’s how to turn your garden into a dreamy, pastoral escape. Plants and Flowers “The essence of a cottagecore garden lies in its cosy, whimsical aesthetic,” explains Craig. To achieve this look: Native Plants:  Choose UK-native plants like Columbine, Yarrow, Foxgloves, Geraniums, and Campanulas for a traditional British feel. Soft Colours:  Opt for pastel shades—think lavender, hollyhocks, and climbing roses in muted pinks, purples, and blues, blended with wild grasses and shrubs. Purposeful Wildness:  Aim for a balance between curated and wild by planting in clusters, creating a patchwork effect. Add bursts of height with climbers or dwarf fruit trees. Attract Wildlife:  Incorporate plants that attract bees and butterflies to bring life to your garden. Design Cottagecore design revolves around rustic charm and natural textures: Paths and Borders:  Use stepping stone paths with rugged stones like limestone or sandstone. Line borders with cobbles or rocks, laid out in an imperfect manner for a rustic feel. Sectioned Spaces:  Define areas of the garden with natural stones to create a cohesive yet quaint look. Furniture and Decor “Furniture and decor are key to creating a soft and inviting atmosphere,” Craig advises: Whimsical Touches:  Add gnomes, stone bird baths, or hand-painted pots for vintage charm. Natural Materials:  Opt for furniture made of natural materials such as wooden rattan. Patterns and Textiles:  Incorporate ditsy florals or stripes through cushions and tablecloths. Lighting:  String lights with warm bulbs or layered candles create a cosy, glowing ambience for evenings outdoors. Create Your Dream Cottagecore Garden With Craig Wilson’s expert advice, transforming your garden into a cottagecore haven is within reach. Whether you're planting native flowers, laying rustic paths, or decorating with vintage-inspired furnishings, every detail will help you embrace the trend in its fullest form. So, as frosts turn to spring blooms, why not let your garden reflect the pastoral charm of cottagecore? https://www.gardenersdream.co.uk/

by Bobby Drewett, founder of  Ouno An astonishing video of a passenger trapped inside a Waymo driverless taxi gone rogue continues to make news headlines around the world. U nsurprisingly, some have thrown their arms up in alarm, calling for autonomous driving tech to be banned.  US tech entrepreneur Mike Johns was on his way to an Arizona airport when his Waymo taxi abandoned the planned route and started driving in circles around a carpark. The  video  — which shows not only Johns unable to take control of the spinning car, but Waymo’s customer service representative also powerless to stop it — has sparked a fresh debate about the risks of driverless vehicles. But let’s face it, people said the same about the development of the car itself and we’re not going around on horses in the twenty-first century, are we? Johns himself said of his somewhat terrifying experience of being apparently kidnapped by a car, stating: “As a futurist, I feel like this is where everything is headed so you might as well get there first. It’s just we have glitches that need stitches.” Surely London, the world’s  most congested city , will provide an even bigger challenge to autonomous vehicles than a grid-layout US city. Naturally, the capital has  more taxis  than any other city in the UK, accounting for roughly a quarter of all licensed taxis and a third of private hire vehicles nationwide. Like many European cities, this metropolis of almost nine million people is very old. Its layout is the product of evolution rather than design, with roads forming a chaotic, organic and highly complex pattern. In the warren of one-way streets that characterise an area like Soho in the city’s historic West End, autonomous vehicles face a major challenge. Bobby Drewett, founder of  Ouno Despite all that, it’s clear that autonomous cars are part of our future. Indeed, they are already here. In California, passengers have already racked up more than  eight million driverless miles. Like all big innovations, these robotaxis will disrupt existing systems as much as supplant – will we still want to own a personal car for instance if one can be summoned as easily as a takeaway from Deliveroo? In our field, chauffeurs and taxi drivers play a vital, irreplaceable role in the smooth running of every British city. With autonomous cabs expected to be let loose on the UK’s streets in as little as three years, many people fear robotaxis will threaten their livelihoods and put future job prospects at risk. But ride services – particularly those in the luxury end – will always have a need for human drivers. What differentiates an impeccable luxury service from an average one is the personal touch. No amount of tech squeezed into a vehicle is going to find an airport trolley for your luggage, carry your shopping to the door or commiserate with you on the way home from a disappointing football match where your team took a drubbing. A professional chauffeur doesn’t just navigate roads. They instantly recognise – and, more importantly, can address – any unexpected problems that arise with either the route or the vehicle. On top of that, they can adapt to each passenger’s particular wants and needs, even their changing mood, on the spot. A chauffeur’s role goes far beyond just getting someone from A to B. The genie is out of the bottle with driverless cars and they certainly serve a purpose (when they’re not driving round in circles, of course). Yet those looking for luxury in their passenger experience on the road will always value – and demand – the human touch to ensure that every ride matches their expectations.

Ties: the quintessential emblem of corporate attire, once relegated to stuffy boardrooms and school uniforms. But in 2025, this modest strip of fabric might just be the surprise accessory of the year. Spotted everywhere from runways to social media, ties are being embraced by both men and women, not as a nod to tradition, but as a bold style statement. The question is: are they worth adding to your wardrobe? Pros of Ties: 1. Runway Endorsement Designers like Prada, Dior, and Saint Laurent have reimagined ties, offering sleek, narrow options alongside bold prints and oversized designs. Paired with blazers, crisp shirts, or even dresses, ties have become the focal point of many collections. 2. Gender-Neutral Appeal Ties transcend gender norms, making them a versatile accessory for everyone. A tailored suit and tie combo look just as striking on women as they do on men, while more playful iterations—think silk scarves or pastel tones—add a feminine twist. 3. Easy Personalisation Whether it’s a classic silk tie, a quirky vintage find, or a custom monogrammed piece, ties allow for endless personalisation. They’re a subtle way to infuse individuality into any outfit, from streetwear to formal ensembles. 4. Retro Revival With 90s and early 2000s trends dominating the fashion cycle, ties tap into a sense of nostalgia. Who could forget Avril Lavigne’s rebellious tie-and-tank-top look? Fashion, it seems, is taking notes. Cons of Ties: 1. Practicality Issues Let’s be honest: ties aren’t the most comfortable accessory. They can feel restrictive and fussy, especially for those unaccustomed to wearing them. 2. Limited Styling Options While ties offer creative potential, they’re not as versatile as scarves or jewellery. For many, they remain firmly tied (pun intended) to formal occasions. 3. Risk of Overkill The trend’s rising popularity may dilute its uniqueness. When everyone’s wearing a tie, the individuality they promise can get lost in the crowd. 4. Not for Everyone For some, ties conjure up memories of strict dress codes or overly formal settings—hardly the vibe for 2025’s relaxed, inclusive fashion ethos. Should You Invest? Ties in 2025 are not just accessories; they’re statements. If you’re eager to experiment with a polished-yet-playful aesthetic, adding a few ties to your collection could breathe new life into your wardrobe. On the other hand, if the idea feels too restrictive, skip the trend and stick to something more effortless. Ultimately, whether ties become the new accessory of the year depends on how willing the fashion-forward crowd is to embrace their inherent contradiction: simultaneously buttoned-up and daringly expressive. So, will you tie one on this year?

Timothée Chalamet is fully embracing his electric era. The actor turned heads today as he arrived at the London premiere of his Bob Dylan biopic, A Complete Unknown,  in a manner as memorable as the legendary musician himself—on an e-bike. The stunt appeared to be a cheeky nod to Dylan’s iconic (and controversial) 1965 Newport Folk Festival performance, where he famously "went electric" with an amplified band after years of acoustic performances. Chalamet’s arrival wasn’t just about his mode of transport—it was a full-style moment. Dressed in a custom Martine Rose suit, the actor sported a cropped double-breasted blazer with exaggerated shoulders, layered over a patterned floral shirt and a peek of a ribbed undershirt. The outfit perfectly matched the eclectic, boundary-pushing aesthetic that Rose is known for. Upon reaching the red carpet, Chalamet caused a flurry of excitement, pedalling to the centre before dramatically dismounting his heavily branded e-bike. After a brief struggle to secure the kickstand and a quick check of his phone—likely to end the ride on a bike-share app—he struck a series of poses for photographers. Whether he biked the entire way to the premiere or had the bike waiting for a staged arrival remains unclear, but the moment added a playful, method-acting twist to the event. This quirky arrival ties neatly to the narrative of A Complete Unknown , directed by James Mangold and based on Elijah Wald’s 2015 book Dylan Goes Electric!  The film explores Dylan’s transition from folk icon to rock pioneer, a move that initially shocked his fanbase. Chalamet’s choice to channel Dylan’s rebellious spirit is a continuation of his method-inspired promotion for the film. At the New York premiere, he recreated Dylan’s bold 2003 Sundance Film Festival look—blonde streaks and all—and he’s also set to perform as Dylan on an upcoming episode of Saturday Night Live. Chalamet’s e-bike entrance isn’t just a homage to Dylan’s electric revolution; it’s also a nod to his New York City roots, where Citi Bikes are as much a staple as yellow taxis. While the actor might be making a playful case for sustainable transit, his ironic take on method acting ensures that his red-carpet moments remain as talked-about as the roles he plays.