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.

When it comes to luxury handbags, Hermès reigns supreme, with their iconic Birkin and Kelly bags epitomising timeless elegance. Yet, for most of us, their stratospheric price tags place them firmly out of reach. Enter the dupe frenzy , where brands create affordable alternatives inspired by luxury designs. From TikTok sensations to headlines about Walmart’s viral “Birkin,” the world’s obsession with designer dupes is at an all-time high. While the frenzy has led to an explosion of imitation pieces, not all dupes are created equal. Some tread too close to counterfeit territory, while others offer a tasteful nod to the Hermès aesthetic with a focus on quality and craftsmanship. For those looking to channel luxury without compromising on authenticity, here are three Hermès-inspired bags we wholeheartedly approve of. 1. Lalage Beaumont: The Classic Elegance Lalage Beaumont’s bags are a masterclass in understated luxury, capturing the essence of Hermès without the unattainable price tag. Renowned for their exquisite craftsmanship and premium materials, these bags radiate sophistication. Take the Lalage Maya Large Dolomite Bag, for instance. Its structured silhouette, top handles, and refined flap closure echo the timeless appeal of the Hermès Kelly bag. Handmade in small batches, Lalage Beaumont’s designs offer a unique blend of exclusivity and affordability, making them a worthy alternative to their haute couture counterparts. 2. Totes Luxe: Playful and Affordable For a fresh, playful take on the Hermès look, Totes Luxe delivers chic designs at a fraction of the cost. Known for their vibrant colours and versatile shapes, Totes Luxe bags strike the perfect balance between practicality and style. The Totes Luxe Giselle Bag  draws inspiration from the iconic Birkin bag with its boxy design and statement straps. Crafted from vegan leather, it’s a sustainable choice for those who want style without compromising ethics. Perfect for busy days or chic weekend outings, this bag proves you can look expensive without spending a fortune. 3. DeMellier: The Modern Minimalist DeMellier has become a go-to for fashion enthusiasts seeking minimalist designs with a luxury feel. Rooted in timeless craftsmanship, DeMellier bags are made in Spain from the finest leathers, offering a modern reinterpretation of iconic silhouettes. The DeMellier Vancouver Bag  is a standout, with its clean lines, structured shape, and subtle gold hardware reminiscent of the Hermès Kelly. It’s versatile enough for both casual and formal occasions, delivering on both practicality and panache. Plus, with every bag sold, DeMellier funds lifesaving vaccines for children in need, adding a meaningful touch to your purchase. The Verdict? While the internet’s obsession with the dupe frenzy  continues to churn out questionable lookalikes, it’s possible to find alternatives that celebrate, rather than imitate, the Hermès aesthetic. Lalage Beaumont, Toes Luxe, and DeMellier stand out for their commitment to quality, design, and ethical production—proof that you don’t need a five-figure budget to channel timeless luxury.

The debate surrounding drugstore shampoos and conditioners has long divided the beauty community. Some hair experts claim that inexpensive products, like Pantene, rely on silicones that deliver short-term shine at the expense of long-term hair health. Others argue that price doesn’t dictate quality and that silicone can be a beneficial ingredient. Recently, this debate has been reignited, thanks to TikTok sensation Alix Earle . Earle, who has over 7.2 million followers, posted a video just before the New Year, asking why her hair felt softer after using her expired Pantene shampoo and conditioner. Her question sparked discussions across social media, pitting advocates of drugstore products against proponents of pricier salon brands. What Are Silicones, and Why Do They Spark Debate? Silicones are widely used in both drugstore and salon products to enhance hair’s smoothness, reduce breakage, and protect it from heat. They work by coating the strands, creating a sleek and shiny finish. However, critics claim that this coating can build up over time, leading to dullness, dryness, and less effective hair treatments, such as colouring. This controversy often places Pantene in the spotlight, as its products are known for their signature slip and shine. While some associate these qualities with heavy silicone use, the debate centres on whether these ingredients can have long-term effects on hair health. Does Pantene Work for Everyone? Pantene has long been a popular choice for its affordability and accessibility, and many users report excellent results. However, hair type, texture, and individual needs play a significant role in how well any product works. A shampoo and conditioner that leave one person’s hair soft and manageable might not deliver the same results for someone with a different hair type or styling routine. The Pantene Multitasker 10 collection, which appeared in Earle’s TikTok video, is designed to address multiple hair concerns in one formula. While it may be a great fit for Earle’s hair, its performance will vary depending on factors such as washing frequency, previous treatments, and individual preferences. Some argue that drugstore haircare products, including Pantene, are unfairly judged due to marketing narratives. The same silicones criticised in budget-friendly products are often praised in luxury formulas for their ability to “shield” and protect hair. This inconsistency highlights the role that perception and branding play in shaping opinions about haircare. Finding the Right Product for Your Hair Ultimately, the best shampoo and conditioners are those that suit your unique hair type and needs. While Alix Earle’s glowing review of Pantene may inspire others to try the brand, it’s important to remember that haircare is highly personal. Trial and error are often the most effective ways to discover what works best for you. Earle’s experience may validate the benefits of drugstore shampoos for some, but it’s essential to approach any recommendation with an open mind. Whether it’s Pantene or another product, the goal is to find a formula that makes your hair look and feel its best.

January can often feel like the ultimate skincare hangover, with the visible toll of festive indulgences staring back at us in the mirror. If your skin looks tired, dry, and dull, and you’ve noticed breakouts, fine lines, and puffiness under your eyes, you may be experiencing ‘festive face.’ Leading aesthetic expert Dr Barbara Kubicka, Founder and Director of Clinicbe in Knightsbridge, explains how a month of overindulgence wreaks havoc on your skin—and, most importantly, how to get your glow back. What Causes Festive Face? Dr Kubicka identifies four major culprits behind fatigued skin during the festive season: 1. Disrupted Sleep Patterns Late nights spent at office parties, family gatherings, and New Year celebrations disrupt your body’s natural repair and regeneration cycle, leaving your skin looking dull and tired. 2. Increased Stress Levels Financial pressures, hosting duties, and endless social engagements elevate cortisol levels. This stress hormone contributes to breakouts, dull skin, and even premature ageing. 3. Neglected Skincare Routines Failing to remove makeup, smoking, skipping SPF, and not drinking enough water all compromise the skin’s health and appearance. 4. Poor Nutrition A December diet of saturated fats, sugary treats, and alcohol promotes inflammation, weakening the skin barrier and causing breakouts and puffiness. Dr Barbara Kubicka How to Revitalise Your Skin in January While you can’t undo December’s damage, Dr Kubicka assures that adopting a few simple habits can help rejuvenate your skin. Here’s how: Prioritise Sleep Aim for 7–8 hours of quality sleep each night. This allows your skin time to repair itself and reduces the appearance of dark circles. Adopt a Balanced Lifestyle Regular exercise boosts circulation, delivering oxygen and nutrients to your skin. Avoiding smoking can also dramatically improve skin health. Manage Stress Lower cortisol levels by practising yoga, meditation, or simple breathing exercises. Stress management is crucial for clear and healthy skin. Reassess Your Diet Cut back on sugar, dairy, and alcohol. Instead, fill your plate with antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, and omega-3 fatty acids, which support collagen production and improve skin elasticity. Stay Hydrated Drink at least 8 glasses of water daily to flush out toxins and maintain skin moisture. Skincare Resolutions for the New Year Dr Kubicka recommends upgrading your skincare routine to restore radiance and vitality: 1. Commit to Cleansing Cleanse twice daily with a gentle product to remove impurities while maintaining your skin’s natural barrier. 2. Exfoliate Wisely Exfoliate 1–2 times per week to encourage cell renewal and brighten your complexion. Choose a product suited to your skin type. 3. Wear SPF Daily Even in winter, broad-spectrum SPF 30+ protects against UV damage, which can accelerate ageing and cause hyperpigmentation. 4. Hydrate and Nourish Hydrating masks with ingredients like hyaluronic acid or glycerin can replenish moisture. Antioxidant-rich serums containing vitamins C or E combat oxidative stress and enhance skin tone. 5. Introduce Retinoids Retinoids promote cell turnover, reduce fine lines, unclog pores, and address acne. They’re a powerful addition to your anti-ageing arsenal. By adopting these healthy habits and integrating medical-grade skincare products, you can effectively repair your skin and banish your festive face for good. As Dr Kubicka notes, January is the perfect time to commit to a revitalised skincare strategy—one that leaves you glowing, confident, and rea dy for the year ahead.