Innholdsfortegnelse for December 2020 i Woman & Home

Welcome to our wonderful Christmas issue of woman&home! I think it’s safe to say this year’s bumper offering has had even more love and attention lavished on it than ever before. That’s because while the w&h team have remained working from home on this edition, there has never been a stronger sense of community and care among the staff. The team and I wanted to create an extra-special issue to help you celebrate the festive season at the end of what has been an incredibly challenging year for us all. Yet, if there has been one positive to emerge, it is that we have become kinder. To celebrate this silver lining, we’ve created a Kindness Special from page 52, including mindful gifting, the importance of self-care and our 2020 learnings.…

THANK YOU, NHS During lockdown, I developed a carcinoma growth on my cheek, and needed an op under local anaesthetic to remove it. The NHS team were so kind to me, reassuring me all the way. Coming from South Africa, where you pay big bucks for medical aid – and, if you don’t have the money, they won’t admit you to hospital – I still can’t believe how it works in the UK. I am so grateful to the NHS. A big hug to them all. Jane, by email FAIR ISLE FIRE My husband and I lived on the tiny island of Fair Isle for a while and it’s where we first met after meeting online and me travelling 850 miles for a first date. It’s the most amazing place…

When we went into that first, full-on lockdown in March, the idea of being holed up indoors for weeks on end didn’t exactly sound like a bundle of laughs. Yet, a recent survey* revealed that laughter is what got 79% of Brits through. The survey showed that laughter (23%) ranked higher than exercise (19%) and sex (13%) for its feel-good factor, with 53% getting their laughter fix via funny videos, 38% by virtual calls with family and friends, 22% by listening to the radio and 16% by reading funny books. Now, if humour can bring a spark of joy to lockdown, then surely we can all do with a dose of laughter over Christmas. ‘When you laugh it jump-starts your brain to feel better’ ‘Christmas can be stressful for many…

We’ve teamed up with the fabulous fashion retailer Hobbs to offer a 20% discount* to all woman&home readers. As Christmas beckons, you’ll find plenty of outfit inspiration in the Hobbs’ collection. Defined by sumptuous fabrics and ruched details, Hobbs’ signature shade of red takes centre stage. Think colour-pop blouses and head-turning dresses offset by plush velvet blazers and metallic accessories. Seeking more sparkle? There’s even a showstopping sequin dress too. Because this is a collection that celebrates the joy of dressing up, whatever the occasion.…

One Bottle, Stronger*, Younger-Looking Skin A hard-working serum is the backbone of any good beauty regime and choosing the right one will make a world of difference to your skin – but selecting one that is suitable for your skin’s needs can be baffling. ‘Serums are so much more concentrated than a cream and work deep down in your skin to target specific concerns. I always massage mine over my face and neck, then take onto my décolleté – this area needs just as much attention as our faces,’ says Sarah Cooper-White, w&h beauty director. If you’ve been wondering which serum to choose, Lancôme has made the process much simpler, with one brilliant serum designed for all women, whatever skin type and age. Whether you have dry, combination, normal or…

Drama is about relationships. With nursing at its heart, Call the Midwife depends on human interaction more than most shows. Based on a trilogy of memoirs by retired nurse Jennifer Worth, Call the Midwife was launched with little fanfare. To the delight of all involved, it made a massive and surprising impact. As the creator of the series, and its main writer, nothing gives me greater pleasure than the fact that our relationship with the audience has always been a two-way street. Retired midwives and nurses donate their badges, their buckles and their scarves. Some fans ask us to send them our vintage knitting patterns, others simply knit and send us baby clothes. Viewers write to ask where Shelagh buys her glasses. Others share their deepest pain. They recount their…

One year ago, TV presenter Caroline Flack posted an Instagram message. ‘In a world where you can be anything,’ she said, ‘be kind.’ By February, the Strictly Come Dancing champion was dead. Traumatised by a very public court case, she took her own life. A campaign grew to grant her last request and #BeKind swept social media. #BeKind cupcakes were baked and sales of a #BeKind T-shirt raised £300,000 for the Samaritans. Compassion became a buzzword and might very well have fizzled out… but then along came the seismic events of 2020. The kindness bug grew and grew. In response to COVID-19, more than 400,000 signed up to help the NHS, neighbours rallied round and food collections appeared outside supermarkets. The Red Cross enlisted 80,000 volunteers who carried out 238,917…

‘When I lived abroad, I had many Christmases alone, and back home in the UK, I made a choice to use Christmas well. Last year I registered to be a pet-sitter. The client needed someone to take care of her adorable kitten, Felicity – as well as her stunning Bristol apartment. I felt like I was being paid to be on a minibreak! I made lists of everything I wanted to do, bought my favourite food and splashed out on shoes and a dress. Some may feel they can’t be happy alone, but perhaps Christmas is a good time to dig into these feelings and make the day a real voyage of self-discovery.’ ✢ Cheryl Muir, 35, is a dating and relationship expert from Bristol…

I started presenting the Radio 4 show Ramblings back in 1999. This year, staycations have given a lot of us the opportunity to discover fantastic areas of the UK. I love getting up high and getting a view. ✢ The coastline of Northumberland is fabulous. I recommend the North-East Coastal Path, St Oswald’s Way and St Cuthbert’s Way. ✢ In Scotland, the Kingdom of Fife has its own weather system – it can be raining everywhere else but not here. The Fife Coastal Path is an amazing walk from Elie, following the coastline all the way to St Andrews. ✢ In the borders I’ve been to a lovely book festival in Wigtownshire, on a peninsula opposite the Lake District. It’s difficult to get to but so worth the effort. The…

Our favourite one-liners from Victoria Wood: ✢ ‘Where are you in your menstrual cycle?’ ‘Taurus.’ Victoria always considered ‘Taurus’, spoken by Julie Walters, to be her first successful punchline. ✢ ‘I thought coq au vin was love in a lorry.’ This line from her ITV drama Talent was more graphic in the original stage play. ✢ ‘I wouldn’t be an adolescent again if you bumped my pocket money up to three and six.’ In one brilliant gag Victoria summed up her teenage years. ✢ ‘My boyfriend had a sex manual but he was dyslexic. I was lying there and he was looking for my vinegar.’ The only joke that Victoria and Geoffrey wrote together, she used it for over 30 years. ✢ Let’s Do It: The Authorised Biography of Victoria…

Thrifty trick Watch out for Sainsbury’s Nectar Double Up event, usually in early November, when Nectar points can be swapped for twice their normal value on selected items in store. It’s a great chance to stock up on Taste the Difference wine, Prosecco and champagne to toast the festive season. In the past, shoppers have also been able to use points to pick up Christmas gifts from the electrical, toys and technology shelves, plus nab extra crockery and bed linen needed for family gatherings. Even if you don’t shop at Sainsbury’s, you can still collect Nectar points at places including Argos, eBay, Asos and Sainsbury’s petrol stations. TREAT YOURSELF Fancy saving on your signature scent? Give the brand a quick Google, to see if a high-street shop or discount store…

Tis the season to indulge. Gorging on Ferrero Rocher and Prosecco is a prerequisite of the holiday season, but it’s also important to treat your skin to some lavish pampering too. Most of us find ourselves a little short on time in the run-up to Christmas, and our skincare regime can be one of the first things to suffer. We've all been guilty of relying on a face wipe the wrong side of midnight, or worse still, not removing make-up at all! Luckily, there are some lovely treatments on hand to ensure a swift and glowing recovery. ENJOY A PRO FACIAL AT HOME If a trip to the spa seems like an unimaginable luxury, try some self-pampering. Pamela Marshall, clinical aesthetician and co-founder of London skin clinic, Mortar & Milk,…

1. BEST FOR FRIZZ CONTROL Imbue Curl Worshipping Shine Oil, £8.99, lookfantastic.com Afro hair is prone to frizz more than any other hair texture, so a good styling oil is a must. This lovely nourishing formula helps seal in moisture (the best way to prevent frizz), and keeps your curls and coils glossy. Apply a few drops to the palm of your hands, then run through the lengths to coat each strand. 2. BEST FOR GENTLE CLEANSING Nylah Naturals Strength & Shine Shampoo Cream, £12, nylahsnaturals.com Because Afro hair can be dry and delicate, washing it once a week is enough. But choose something hydrating and free from any foaming agents that might remove moisture. Apply this rich, creamy shampoo to your locks in sections, massaging in at the roots…

As cold and flu season kicks into full swing, you’re probably grappling at anything that promises to shield you from impending sick days. And this year, safeguarding the immune system has never been more of a top priority. Since the pandemic began, millions of us have been researching how we can boost our bodies’ natural defence system. Thankfully, there are plenty of ways you can support your wellbeing. ‘It’s vitally important to take steps to look after your immune system over winter, especially given the increased prevalence of respiratory infections during this period,’ says Dr Roshane, a healthcare expert at health insurance company Vitality. ‘Even though the reasons why infections like colds and flu peak in winter is not very well understood, it’s likely to be because viruses survive better…

Sprouts get the blame, but all brassicas, including cabbage, cauliflower and broccoli, can make us flatulent. The fibre they contain contributes but there’s another culprit – a natural sugar called raffinose. Our bodies lack the enzyme to digest this, so it passes into the large intestine where bacteria break it down, producing gases like hydrogen, carbon dioxide and methane as a side effect. Bacteria also break down sulphur-containing substances in brassicas into hydrogen sulphide, which mixes with the gases in the intestine, causing smelly wind. It’s generally impossible to stop the inevitable fart fest but the health benefits of brassicas are so great we recommend you enjoy them – then blame the dog!…

If you gobble your food down, you might want to try these tips to take things a little slower. ✢ Eat more courses It might seem counterproductive, but it can help you eat more slowly and therefore eat less, explains Kirsten: ‘Starting your meal with a salad containing bitter foods such as rocket, watercress or chicory helps to stimulate your digestive enzymes, which improves your digestion,’ she says. ‘You will also start to fill up with the nutrient-rich salad and, in turn, eat less at your main course, which is often more calorific.’ ✢ Water first Sip a glass of water 20 minutes before your meal and another one during to slow you down. ✢ Chew slowly Aim to chew each mouthful 20 times. Before long, it will become a…

✢ According to national statistics, drinking over the recommended 14 units of alcohol in a week is most common among adults aged 55 to 64. ✢ Research shows that having a month off from alcohol lowers blood pressure and cholesterol, reduces diabetes risk, and lessens the risk of certain cancers developing. It also helps create healthier drinking habits year-round. Download the Dry January app (Apple and Android) to get started. ✢ Find support to help cut down, or quit drinking, at wearewithyou.org.uk…

Line a mantel with a garland of greenery, either fresh or faux. Decorate with sprigs of holly, pine cones and baubles, then add sparkle with a few LED candles dotted here and there. Go bold with larger-than-life decorations to adorn the tree, from golden palm leaves and birds to the odd gold leopard or two! Start with bigger ornaments first, then fill in the gaps. Keep it co-ordinated when it comes to gifts, wrapping them in pretty patterned papers and metallic foils, tied with coloured ribbons and bows. Wrap a stack and pile around the tree to hide the base. Keep the tree chic and simple with baubles in white, frosted silver and gold that will glisten among the greenery. Boost its sparkle by going big with fairy lights –…

1 GLOW UP Create a cosy mood that feels instantly warm and welcoming. Switch off harsh overhead lights and try low-level layering with a table lamp and strings of fairy lights. 2 GLAM UP GREENERY Give garlands added bling with a few sparkly extras, such as baubles or berries. Use swagged along a staircase or mantelpiece. 3 SPRUCE UP THE FRONT DOOR Give a door wreath extra sparkle by adding a set of battery-operated lights, weaving the wires in among the foliage. Or invest in a pre-lit set that will come on automatically when it gets dark. 4 BE PREPARED Wrap a couple of small gifts, such as chocolates, to have on standby for unexpected guests. 5 GO BIG WITH BAUBLES Make tree dressing a breeze by opting for supersized…

Cherry and chocolate pavlova stack Always a party hit, this splendid towering meringue stack is guaranteed to wow guests and have them fighting over the jammy layers. Serves 10 • Ready in 2 hrs 30 mins, plus cooling and chilling for the meringue 6 large egg whites, at room temperature 330g caster sugar ½tsp white wine or cider vinegar 1tsp cornflour for the filling 400ml double cream 200g good-quality dark chocolate, broken into pieces 600g jar Bonne Maman Cherry Compote 4tbsp Cointreau or fresh orange juice chocolate shavings, to decorate 1 Heat the oven to 200C/Gas 6. Line 3 baking trays with baking parchment and mark each with a 20cm circle. 2 Whisk the egg whites to stiff peaks, then add the caster sugar 1tbsp at a time. Whisk until glossy…

BIG WINTER SKIES IN NORFOLK The splendid coastal landscape at Holkham, with its deserted beaches and huge skies, is at its most dramatic during winter, and you can witness one of the greatest bird extravaganzas in Europe – the arrival of pink-footed geese. TAKE A WALK From the Lookout visitor centre, follow a beautiful section of boardwalk through the woods to a lagoon at Holkham Meals. Climb among the dunes, then follow the beach east towards Wells-next-the-Sea, returning via the pine woods or along the Norfolk Coast Path. The circular walk is around 5km. ✣ visitnorfolk.co.uk Listen out for the calls of short-eared owls, which settle here in winter. They can be spotted hunting during daylight hours. ROLLING MIST IN THE LAKE DISTRICT With snow-crested mountains, glittering lakes and rolling…

GRIPPING SEQUEL ONE AUGUST NIGHT by Victoria Hislop (£14.99, Headline) The sequel to her moving bestseller, The Island, this grips from the get-go. The story begins just before the release of families, friends and lovers who had years before been consigned to the leper colony of Spinalonga. A dramatic story of love, betrayal and allegiances, the repercussions of a moment of terrible jealousy reverberate through many lives. Hislop evokes Greece beautifully – you can picture the scenes, taste the salt on the sea air and feel the emotional pull of each and every character. Fans of The Island will be thrilled.…

STORIES OF OUR LIVES SONGTELLER by Dolly Parton and Robert K Oermann (£35, Hodder & Stoughton) This gorgeous book is a celebration of the country singer’s life, told through 175 of her best-loved songs. With stunning images of never-seen-before memorabilia and photographs to accompany her lyrics, we discover more about her life – and what an inspiration it is! For any Dolly or country music fan, this is a special gift that pays tribute to a spectacular lady. IT’S A LOVE STORY by Shirlie and Martin Kemp (£20, Mirror Books) In this new memoir, Shirlie and Martin reveal the personal highs and lows that they have encountered on their incredible journey together, lasting for more than 40 years. From their beginnings as being pop’s golden couple in the 1980s, they…

THIS MONTH YOU’LL FIND ME Watching Netflix’s Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul. I’ve also started The Crown, which I had resisted until now. I never watch things at the same time everybody’s watching them. Reading The Complete Works of George Orwell. It’s maybe not the cheeriest thing to read but it’s brilliant. I walk past the statue of him on my way to work every day. Listening to A Canadian artist called Daniel Romano. In 10 weeks of lockdown he put out eight albums. He’s phenomenal. He changes his style, so he’s done a country, folk, punk, power pop album. When someone is putting out really good albums at that rate, you have to sit up and take notice. Learning to Speak Spanish but we haven’t even learnt the…

The Crown Olivia Colman returns as Queen Elizabeth II as the fourth series enters the Margaret Thatcher years, where Gillian Anderson plays the Tory Prime Minister and Emma Corrin joins as Lady Diana Spencer. Netflix Mank Old Hollywood glamour is brought to life in Mank, which follows writer Herman J Mankiewicz (Gary Oldman) and actor Orson Welles’ (Tom Burke) battle over the screenwriting credit for the 1941 film Citizen Kane . Netflix Truth Seekers Simon Pegg and Nick Frost star in this horror comedy series about a team of paranormal investigators who film ghost sightings. But things become even more terrifying as they uncover a vast conspiracy. Amazon Prime Video…

CAPRICORN 23 DECEMBER – 19 JANUARY A lingering theme comes to a head on the 21st. Be it a heavy burden or reward for hard work, it’s a relief, and gives you more to celebrate at Christmas. Call 0905 789 4159* and choose weekly, monthly and yearly updates AQUARIUS 20 JANUARY – 19 FEBRUARY There are major shifts mid month when both feel-good Jupiter and taskmaster Saturn move into Aquarius for lengthy stays. Expect more responsibility. Call 0905 789 4160* and choose weekly, monthly and yearly updates PISCES 20 FEBRUARY – 20 MARCH Game for a romance? There’s a come-on early December – regardless, it makes you smile. A tricky situation with a friend or group eases, and you shine on the 27th. Call 0905 789 4161* and choose weekly,…

All-round literary superstar JILLY COOPER CBE’s new book, Between the Covers, features her classic journalism. She has written countless bestsellers, and shares her life lessons on p50. What will you wear on Christmas Day? I’ll probably wear black leggings because they make me look slimmer. On top I’ll wear a heavenly pale grey jersey, given to me by my daughter Emily, which has a glittering star of silver sequins on it. Then with any luck, Three Wise Men might catch sight of me and drop in for a glass of Champagne. ANN CLEEVES is the bestselling author of over 30 novels, including the Vera and Shetland series on which ITV’s and BBC One’s dramas are based. She’s previously worked as a probation officer, librarian, bird observatory cook and auxiliary coastguard.…

WISH-LIST SCENTS 1. Mediterranean mystique Take yourself to Tuscany in one spritz with bitter orange blossoms, neroli and bergamot. Goutal Paris Le Temps des Rêves EDT, £75 for 50ml, johnlewis.com 2. Lingering love The ultimate treat, this new peppery floral fragrance doesn’t disappoint. Diptyque Othoniel Rosa EDT, £120 for 100ml, diptyqueparis.com 3. Sublime scent Inhale this woody, exotic eau de parfum and you’ll find yourself in the balmy evening sun of romantic India. Sana Jardin Sandalwood Temple No. 4 EDP, £95 for 50ml, cultbeauty.co.uk 4. All that jazz Dedicated to 1920s decadence, this combines tangy juniper berries and soft sandalwood for distinct, yet pleasing notes of gin. Molton Brown Juniper Jazz EDT, £85 for 100ml, moltonbrown.co.uk 5. Sweet sensation Want something subtle? Then try this blend of creamy caramel and…

Laughter lens LOOK FOR THE HUMOUR ‘One way to cope with everyday life is to see the absurdity in it,’ says Dr Philip Corr, Professor of Psychology at City University London. ‘Laughter takes the mind to a more abstract place where it’s possible to see things from a different perspective. It’s a form of distraction, and can take our mind away from the unpleasant situation. You can reframe negative situations by viewing them as ridiculous and not worthy of your negative feelings.’ For example, when your mother-in-law makes a critical comment, try and see the humour in the situation. As in, she’s slightly pie-eyed and wearing a ridiculous party hat. ‘You can decide how you want to feel about a difficult situation.’ The laughter bank INVEST IN LAUGHTER FOR GREATER…

TERMS AND CONDITIONS *20% discount available on full-price purchases only between 22 October and 3 December 2020 when you present this page in store or use the code above at hobbs.com. There is no cash alternative. The discount cannot be used on any sale or reduced items, or in conjunction with any other offer or promotion, and is not valid for gift card purchases. For full terms and conditions, visit hobbs.com/terms…

This is my favourite time of year. I love everything about it: the twinkly lights, the sprigs of mistletoe, the smell of satsumas. Last December I was told to nibble a carrot and claim Rudolf had been feeling peckish. Hell, I’d nailed Santa’s brandy, so why not? But as quick as I am to clamber onto every festive bandwagon, I never rush the ride. Christmas is a countdown that favours the daydreamer; its pleasures are all in the anticipation. I have friends who shop in October and leave the country on Boxing Day. They’ve missed the point, they’ve jumped the gun – they’re all admin, no magic. Christmas is about waiting. The Advent calendar nudges us into action, the jingles maintain our pace, and the mulled wine sustains our spirit.…

When Julie Spence realised lockdown was going to stop her making her annual pilgrimage to lay flowers on the memorial bench of her son Callum, she was heartbroken. Julie put out a Facebook appeal and her request was answered by student Harley Johnson, who visited the bench and shared Julie’s post. As a result, Callum’s memorial was covered with flowers. ‘I can’t believe people who don’t know me and never knew Callum would do it, especially at times like these,’ said Julie. ✢ Taken from The Power of Kindness by Debbi Marco (Summersdale).…

This picture was taken when I was four, and I’m the spitting image of my son George, who’s now three, right down to the haircut. Growing up I was very much like George – a gorgeous, angelic child. Where did it go wrong! When I was a boy, we had very little money but I still remember wonderful Christmases. Dad was Hungarian and Mum came from rural Galicia in Spain, yet we had traditional British celebrations. On Christmas Eve we attended midnight mass, but my sister and I were still awake by 5am on Christmas morning. We’d tiptoe downstairs and begin the agonising wait for Mum and Dad to wake up so we could open our presents. I have a vivid memory one year of me and my sister both…

What would you like for Christmas?’ my husband asks me. Ooh, Christmas! If there’s ever been a year when we’ve needed some fun, this is it. Never mind ‘the new normal’. I want the old normal back: festive food, booze, all the family lounging around, shouting over the TV and, yes – sorry to be childish – copious gifts. But hang on… what would I actually like? I don’t seem to want or need anything any more. It started back in lockdown when – obviously – I stopped nipping to town to buy stuff I didn’t need, every time I craved a mood lift. Even when shops reopened, my once rabid desires seemed to have withered away. I’d stopped wearing lipstick, mascara, jewellery, perfume – and, for much of the…

‘BEING ABLE TO GIVE TO OTHERS AT CHRISTMAS IS INVALUABLE TO ME’ Jo Stone, 48, is a senior nurse at The Royal Marsden’s Oak Centre for Children and Young People, in London. The facility is one of the largest comprehensive children and young people’s cancer centres in Europe. Jo lives in London with her husband and two sons, aged 13 and 15. I always knew I wanted to work in children’s nursing. Some people may think it’s upsetting working with children who are very ill, but they make it so lovely and there’s a great sense of hope. Helping and caring for people is what nursing is all about. It’s an incredibly rewarding job. The centre is a beautiful and uplifting environment. It’s a fun, exciting and vibrant place to…

If you buy one thing this month CHOOSE A NOIR NAIL POLISH There’s something refreshing about a black manicure – discreet but sexy, and offering the versatility to be paired with any outfit and for any occasion. The trick is to keep your nails short and neatly filed, and a high-shine top coat will ensure an ultra-chic, less vampy finish. Essie’s global educator, Rita Remark, says, ‘This time of year, when you want a darker colour, a patent black is a no-brainer.’ We like the highly pigmented Essie 88 Licorice Dark Black Nail Polish, £7.99, and Rimmel’s Supergel Nail Polish Black Obsession, £6.99, delivers a decidedly dark, glossy effect that resists chipping for longer. Not ready to go all the way to the dark side? Then try an inky navy,…

Discover the perfect balance between inner health and outer beauty with an exclusive discount. We’ve teamed up with natural and organic health and beauty pioneers, Neal’s Yard Remedies, to offer w&h readers a fantastic 15% off their entire collection, in-store and online. Founded in Covent Garden in 1981, Neal’s Yard Remedies has been working with nature to make award-winning ethical health and beauty collections for nearly 40 years. Harnessing the power of herbs, botanicals and essential oils, free from unnecessary chemicals, they handcraft potent blends of love, science and nature in iconic blue bottles. YOUR FREE GIFT Revive your senses with Neal’s Yard Remedies certified organic Aromatic Shower Gel (200ml), worth £14*, in-store only. Enjoy the soothing blend of balancing organic geranium and relaxing lavender essential oils in this naturally…

If you try one thing this month GET OUT FOR A RUN Tempted to take up running but waiting until spring? Think again! Now is the ideal time to embark on that Couch to 5K programme. The cooler temperatures make for a more comfortable run, and running is a great way to offset the physical load of the Christmas season. ‘It’s all about wearing the right kit to keep you comfortable,’ says Lisa Jackson, author of Your Pace or Mine? (Summersdale) and Running Made Easy (Collins & Brown). ‘On your top half, layer up with a long-sleeved top underneath a lightweight jacket. You can tie the jacket around your waist as you warm up, and put it back on again if the weather turns. ‘On your bottom half, a pair…

1 Pukka Herbs Organic Elderberry & Echinacea Tea, £2.80 for 20 bags, tesco.com Sip on this warming, antioxidant-rich brew to fight infections. 2 Holland & Barrett Vitaboost Immunity Effervescent Tablets, £6.74, hollandandbarrett.com Contains an optimum dose of vitamins C and D, and zinc to give your immune system the boost it needs. 3 Purearth Immunity Water Kefir, £5.99 for 550ml, purearth.co.uk A gut-friendly sparkling fermented drink packed with over 20.5 billion friendly bacteria, vitamins, minerals and digestive enzymes to help support immunity.…

Plantur 39’s unique formula means that bad hair days could be a thing of the past A good hair day isn’t just the stuff of dreams – it can be a reality too. However, as our bodies change through the years so do our locks, and we have to remember to give them a little TLC. Hair loss, or fine and brittle hair, can be the result of menopausal changes. As well as other symptoms associated with the menopause, a dip in hormones can mean your hair isn’t at its thickest – so extra self-care is essential. When hormones are playing havoc with our bodies, diet is normally the first thing to go out of the window – and we end up craving anything but a healthy diet. So, try…

Whatever festivities you have planned this Christmas, show your loved ones you care with a hand-picked memento. ✣ Wrap mini gifts for your guests, such as chocolates or soaps, and place one at each setting. Cover with dainty glass bell jars tied with handwritten labels for a finishing flourish. ✣ Try a fragrant keepsake. Buy potted herbs and half-wrap with brown paper. Tie with cheery ribbon and top each with a name tag. ✣ Fill glass baubles with tiny sprigs of foliage and berries. Tie with red ribbon and a luggage label hand-stamped with your guest’s name. ✣ Bake gingerbread biscuits, cut into stars or festive shapes. Pipe an initial onto each using white icing, and place one at each setting.…

It’s very likely you will, at some point, have been influenced by Kelly Hoppen’s distinctive style. During her 40-year career, her name has become ubiquitous with opulent open-plan spaces, her trademark use of taupe and her signature aesthetic described as East meets West. In fact, Kelly has very much been setting and pushing our taste boundaries for decades. Many of us may have unknowingly introduced ‘Kellyisms’ into our homes. If you’ve ever attempted to artfully arrange vases in multiples, painted your home in calming neutral tones or added interest with contrasting luxe textures, you’ve been influenced by her. ‘I knew I could create exactly what I wanted within these walls’ One of her most impressive recent design projects has been the creation of her west London home. Kelly discovered the…

Holly Lodge Cottage, perfectly named for the festive season, is a home that comes into its own during the Christmas period. The 120-year-old property is owned by Gabrella Barren-Williams and her husband Stuart Burgess, and they live here together with their 17-year-old son Callum and their cat, Peanut. Having lived deep in the countryside for many years, Gabrella and Stuart decided a move closer to town would be beneficial as Callum approached secondary school age. Stuart also wanted a home closer to a station for commuting. The couple began looking in a pretty Oxfordshire village they had lived in previously but the stock was limited. ‘There were lots of 1980s and 1990s houses around, which we didn’t want,’ says Gabrella. ‘I like very modern houses but Stuart likes period properties.’…

Perfect roast turkey with Parma ham and sage Upgrade your turkey this Christmas by covering it in a blanket of Parma ham – it adds a delicious salty crunch. Serves 8-10 • Ready in 3 hrs 30 mins, plus resting 1 lemon, halved 5-6kg turkey with giblets removed 1 bunch fresh sage leaves 3tbsp goose fat or softened butter 12 slices Parma ham 2 large carrots 1 celery head 1 onion for the gravy: 600ml chicken stock 2tbsp redcurrant jelly 1tbsp plain flour 1tbsp butter 1 Heat the oven to 190C/Gas 5. Rub the lemon halves all over the turkey, squeezing out the juices as you go, then put both inside the bird, plus 4 or 5 sage leaves. Smear the turkey breast and legs with the goose fat or butter,…

Amanda Prowse The bestselling author has written more than 30 novels and novellas about ordinary women in extraordinary issues. In a move away from fiction, Amanda has co-authored a book with her son, Josiah, who suffered from depression. The Boy Between is for anyone who has experienced depression and their loved ones. Whether I’m writing fiction or non-fiction, in terms of tip-tapping away, it’s a similar experience. But, whereas with fiction I can change it to suit my mood, I was acutely conscious of accuracy and the fact that someone had trusted me to tell their true story. Getting it right was a huge responsibility. And, of course, with non-fiction there was no opportunity for me to craft a pleasing, neat ending. Sadly. Strangely, my books arrive in my head…

I’m in a book group. Joe, my husband, says I only go for the chat and the wine, but that’s not true. I might be a stay-at-home wife, not a detective sergeant, but I have aspirations. I was flattered when I was invited to join and I’ve been a member for two years now. At first, I felt way out of my depth. Claire, who hosts, is head teacher of a primary school, and her husband does something fancy in IT, and travels all over the world. She hates it when Bob’s away. You can tell because she’s often on the phone to him when we arrive for the meeting. I think it’s lovely that they’re so close after all those years of marriage. After two glasses of wine, I…

I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here! Gwrych Castle in north Wales may have replaced the Aussie jungle for a virus-affected version of the show, but the mystery celebs will still face gruelling trials and surviving on rice and beans. ITV His Dark Materials The teen adventurers from alternate worlds, Lyra (Dafne Keen) and Will (Amir Wilson), finally meet in Series 2 of Philip Pullman’s fantasy adventure. Ruth Wilson is back, too, as Lyra’s conniving mother Mrs Coulter. BBC1 The Sister In this tense and chilling drama, an unwelcome face from the past, mysterious Bob (Bertie Carvel), triggers a series of catastrophic decisions for happily married Nathan (Russell Tovey), who has been hiding a terrible secret. ITV Tin Star: Liverpool The Worth family (Tim Roth, Genevieve O’Reilly and Abigail…

How Did We Get Here? This therapy-style podcast hosted by Claudia Winkleman and her good friend, clinical psychologist Professor Tanya Byron, is a compelling and emotional listen that will give you inspiration, ideas and practical life solutions. Acast, Apple podcasts, Podtail, Spotify Between Ourselves Recorded in front of a live audience, Irish author Marian Keyes chats to her friend, the writer and comedian Tara Flynn, tells anecdotes and reads from her nonfiction. There are only four episodes but each will leave you feeling lighter and brighter. BBC Sounds Who Feeds Us? Farmer Abby Rose hosts this six-part investigative podcast set against the backdrop of COVID-19. With commentaries from farmers, academics and chefs, it’s a thought-provoking listen. Main podcast platforms, farmerama.co/listen…

‘I wonder how Christmas ever caught on?’ What all mums secretly want for Christmas is a ticket for one to a deserted island, where Liam Hemsworth licks the roe from virgin sturgeons from your navel ‘neath a tropical palm. Because, for mums, Christmas is exhausting. During frantic Yuletide preparations – the holly bedecking, the chronic hand cramp from penning 2,000 Christmas cards (gives new meaning to ‘cardiac arrest’), the sleep deprivation from staying awake creating homemade decorations onto which the tinsel refuses to bloody well stick, goddamn it – I find myself wondering how Christmas ever really caught on? Basically, the Dunkirk evacuation would have been easier to organise than a working mum getting ready for Noel. Is it any wonder that by Christmas Eve, most mums have developed the…

Editorial Editor-in-chief Catherine Westwood Executive editor Miranda McMinn Group lifestyle director Geoffrey Palmer Group creative director Phil Attaway Group chief sub editor Emma Badger Lifestyle director Jayne Marsden Group fashion director Paula M oore Fashion editor Hannah Hughes Deputy fashion editor Eloisa J ohnson Senior fashion stylist Becky J oiner-O’Riordan Group beauty director Charley Williams-H owitt Group beauty director Sarah C ooper-White Beauty editor Fiona McKim Beauty editor Stephanie Maylor Senior beauty and fashion writer Jessica Beech Beauty writer Emma North Features director Jane Kemp Features editor Sharon Sweeney Travel editor Helena Cartwright Books and fiction editor Emma Shacklock Books and fiction editor Zoe West Celebrity director Jack White Deputy celebrity director R obyn M orris Celebrity features editor Hayley Minn Senior celebrity writer Selina Maycock Celebrity writer Georgia Farquharson…

‘OUR CHRISTMAS STARTS IN AUGUST!’ Actor Shobna Gulati, 54, lives near Manchester. She has a son, Akshay, 26. For me, Christmas starts just after my birthday in August! Every year, I’m like, ‘Right, my birthday’s over, what are we doing for Christmas?’ I love birthdays and Christmas because it’s just so much fun. We definitely need that most in the deep, dark winter. I like the festive traditions, I love singing carols and I love attending midnight mass. Before she died in November last year, we always spent our family Christmases with Mum. I’d cook dinner and we’d get her cross by making lots of noise – we’d take over her house! After we lost Dad, as a family, we all went our different ways, but we would gather at…

Christmas always rustled. It rustled every time, mysteriously, with silver and gold paper, tissue paper and a rich abundance of shiny paper, decorating and hiding everything and giving a feeling of reckless extravagance. ✢ Tove Jansson, Finnish author, born 1914 For many in the West, December is all about heading towards Christmas Day. For some it is a celebration of their Christian faith, while for others it is about worshipping the gods of retail. Whatever your particular faith or lack of, December 25th is an interesting day to consider what we believe and why when it comes to religion. We have had one or other form of belief system for at least 100,000 years, and religion exists in every culture. Incredibly, more than 85% of the world’s population embraces some…

‘EVERY DONKEY DESERVES TO BE VALUED’ Adele Crompton, 43, is a donkey welfare advisor for The Donkey Sanctuary. She lives in Rossendale with her husband Lee, 50, and their children Rebecca, 18, and Alex, 14. Even when I’m not supposed to be working, I never really switch off from the donkeys. Last year, on New Year's Eve, an email came in from our head of welfare, explaining that the RSPCA had been to evaluate three donkeys found in a muddy Lancashire field. They needed rescuing – and I volunteered. It doesn't get any easier to see donkeys in distress, and when I arrived it was heart-wrenching to witness what a sorry state David, Connie and Theo were in. They were shivering in the cold, and so malnourished and skinny, their…

‘If I was told I could never write another word, I’d be heartbroken’ Jilly Cooper’s fabulous novels have been entertaining us for decades, from early romances like Harriet and Octavia, to classics including Riders, Rivals and Polo – packed with sex, horses, impossibly handsome men and glorious countryside. But Jilly’s stellar career began further back, when after being hugely entertaining at a dinner party, she was commissioned by Godfrey Smith to write a column for The Sunday Times magazine. And in her new book, Between the Covers, Jilly revisits some of her newspaper features, examining everything from marriage to middle age. ‘I shall never change because my capacity for self-improvement is absolutely nil,’ admits Jilly. Here, she shares some of her life lessons… 1 NURTURE NATURE ‘Nature never did…

If someone granted you a single day off to enjoy your favourite food, pamper yourself and get away from work and family demands, you’d enjoy it. So why is 25 December so different? Christmas ramps up our emotions and, if you are alone, society’s expectations are often a reminder that life has not gone to plan. With a little preparation it’s possible to have a very special day – but one that is focused on you. Here’s how… 1 EAT WHAT YOU LIKE 1 Forget vegan nieces and gluten-free aunts. Buy your favourite yummy foods, a great bottle of wine and use your best tableware. Or order online and have curry for lunch. There are no rules. 2 Know when to say yes Be brave and attend the neighbours’ party…

KEEP THIS CRACKER We Brits pull up to 150 million crackers every festive season, most of which end up in the bin within hours. Try Keep This Cracker – they pull open without tearing, so you can fill them with your own gifts and use again. Adding corny jokes is optional. Visit keep thiscracker.com HAPPYWRAP Alongside recycled wrapping paper, Happywrap sells organic cotton reusable wrap complete with cotton twine. As a guide, the small one can wrap a bottle of wine; the medium one, a shoe box. Check out their festive designs at happywrap.co.uk OLIO We reportedly throw away more food at Christmas than at any other time of the year. But food sharing app OLIO reduces this waste by allowing you to offer unwanted food to others in your…

Remember the curse of 2016? It was the year we lost too many stars. But it was the death of Victoria Wood that caused a lingering sorrow – she was only 62 and had so much more to give. It was, so many agreed, like losing a friend. Her millions of fans loved her because they felt they knew her – in fact it was Victoria who knew them. Her genius was observing ordinary people and creating extraordinary comedy – in sketches, stand-up, songs, sitcoms and dramas. But working on Victoria’s biography, it became clear that the pioneering female comic with a gigawatt grin who yanked up her sleeves to deliver jokes was a carefully crafted optical illusion. The real Victoria Wood was much more complicated. As many of the…

‘The novelty of decorating the Christmas tree never wears off’ Alison Smith, 48, lives in Warrington with two Yorkshire terriers, Alice and Hatter, and a cat called Ted. For most of the year she is a wedding and event stylist, but at Christmas, Alison runs The Christmas Wish, a home decor service. THE IDEA Nine years ago I started working as a wedding planner and in 2013 I became the venue dresser for Mottram Hall, Cheshire. It was my big break. Decorating their Christmas trees was daunting because it’s a big, popular hotel, but I loved it. One year I decorated a 12ft tree in an Alice in Wonderland theme, complete with Mad Hatter’s tea party. People started booking the hotel just to see the trees. Then, five years ago,…

Stuck in a make-up rut and need some fresh ideas to look your best this party season? Our professional make-up artist can help! We asked Tahira Herold, celebrity make-up artist and a favourite of actors Jodie Whittaker and Sandra Oh, to not only create her favourite looks for the festive season, but to model them for us too. 1 Ruby red lips ‘Life is too short not to try a bold lip colour from time to time,’ says Tahira. ‘Everyone can wear red as long as you choose the right finish for you.’ And forget the rules about who suits what tones. ‘Anyone can suit any tone of red, but the rest of your outfit and accessories will affect the final look,’ adds Tahira. Nervous of colour? ‘Opt for a…

The woman&home Diet by Jane Plan is the diet delivery service that provides you with meals for breakfast, lunch and dinner – plus snacks – all ready-prepared for you. We know what it’s like not to feel confident in what you’re wearing, but to help, we have a great money-off offer. SAVE £25 Use the code WHP1220 at janeplan.com or call 020 3489 4770 *Prices quoted for the first month of the plan include £25 introductory discount. Not combinable with any other code. P&P charges may apply. Offer operated by and your resulting contract is with Jane Plan Ltd, a company wholly independent of woman&home, published by Future plc. PLUS! WOMAN&HOME DIET SUPPORTS YOU ALL THE WAY with weekly email and telephone support to help you keep on track…

…four mince pies, three double gins, two kilos on and a tight skirt that won’t do up at all. I had to chant that just to get the syllables right. But it’s a song we’re all in danger of singing. Here, my lovely friends, are the five golden traps of Christmas and how to avoid them. 1 WEIGHING YOURSELF. Not something I’m an advocate of and certainly not as a gauge of fat-loss or gain. Picture this: As is perfectly normal over the festive period, you’ve quaffed and scoffed your way through numerous events and now you’re in your undies, staring at the scales. A rise of 2kg (4.4lb). Fret ye not. Most of it is likely to be fluid. You’ve overdone the carbs and any extra is stored in…

We chomp our way through almost 6,000 calories on average on Christmas Day – three times more than we need and equal to the amount of calories in two large tubs of Quality Street! Fortunately, actively eating more delicious festive veg could help us cut the calorie overload. Brussels, carrots, parsnips, red cabbage and cauliflower are packed with fibre to help fill us up, and are loaded with nutrients linked to better health. BRUSSELS SPROUTS A whopping 130 million Brussels sprouts get binned over Christmas. We can’t think why because sprouts are packed with vitamin C, essential for immunity and healthy skin, and vitamin K for healthy bones and blood clotting. They also provide blood pressure-lowering potassium and folate, a B vitamin important for mental wellbeing. They’re rich in lutein…

I always thought boozing was part of my identity. I was a party person, and ‘liquid lunches’ and ‘hair of the dog’ were social  norms. At times in my life I had drunk excessively and dysfunctionally, but had always managed to rein it back in. Because of this, I was drawn towards working in substance misuse services, learning about the risks of heavy alcohol use and the tools to manage it. Then a few years ago my dad became seriously ill and was in and out of hospital for over six months. I got ‘the phone call’ at least three times saying he wouldn’t make it, yet he’d then improve and hang on. It was an incredibly stressful time. ‘I was on a mission to block out everything’ When he…

✢ Keep to a simple palette of soft sand, white and grey for a neutral backdrop. ✢ Introduce accents of black and slate on furniture and fittings to create contrast. ✢ Add glitz with luxurious details, from gilt and gloss to marble and crystal. ✢ Make a statement with one standout feature in every room.…

Clementine Negroni The classic Negroni is given a beautiful wintry twist. Cin cin! Serves 1 • Ready in 5 mins 25ml gin 25ml Campari 25ml vermouth 25ml freshly squeezed clementine juice 1 rosemary stalk to garnish a slice of clementine a sprig of rosemary 1 Place all the ingredients in a cocktail shaker almost filled with ice and shake hard so that you bruise the rosemary. 2 Pour into a glass filled with ice, and garnish with a slice of clementine and a sprig of rosemary. >> Fennel and herb salmon en croûte This fuss-free dish would be perfect for a pre-Christmas gathering or Boxing Day lunch. Serves 6 • Ready in 1 hr 30 mins, plus chilling 2 x 500g salmon fillets, skinned and pin boned 450g all butter puff pastry…

MAGIC AND MYSTERY THE BETRAYALS by Bridget Collins (£14.99, HarperCollins) Following The Binding comes this brilliant new novel. It’s set at Montverre, an all-male academy where only the best study a mysterious game, the grand jeu. One of its former students, Leo Martin, returns to find a woman has joined the academy – the spiky Claire Dryden. As traditions are challenged and secrets revealed, these two learn to face the truth. A captivating, imaginative tale. WARM AND FUNNY THE FLIP SIDE by James Bailey (£7.99, Penguin) This is the book you need right now if you’re looking for an uplifting, funny read. Finding himself stuck at the top of the London Eye with his girlfriend who has just turned down his marriage proposal, Josh decides that from now on he…

FINDING LOVE AT THE CHRISTMAS MARKET by Jo Thomas (Transworld) Set up on a blind date, Henrich seems ideal, but Connie hasn’t yet met his rival, William. A cosy romance. THE WINTER GARDEN by Heidi Swain (Simon & Schuster) Can gardener Freya and artist Finn overcome their differences to create a public garden? THE COUNTRY VILLAGE CHRISTMAS SHOW by Cathy Lake (Bonnier) Heading for the village where she grew up, Clare might just have found the sense of purpose she’s been looking for… CHRISTMAS AT THE ISLAND HOTEL by Jenny Colgan (Sphere) Flora and her brother Fintan have to learn fast if they want to transform a disused hotel into a success. I WISH IT COULD BE CHRISTMAS EVERY DAY by Milly Johnson (Simon & Schuster) As snow starts to…