Innholdsfortegnelse for March 2025 i Woman & Home

Ruth Langsford proves that we can not and should not be defined by our age. As she turns 65 this month, the presenter has never been busier – with her career skyrocketing following her successful collaboration and own clothing collection with QVC. But, despite her professional life going from strength to strength, Ruth’s personal life has had other ideas. As she tells woman&home, ‘I am not delighted that my marriage is over.’ Nevertheless, her undaunted glass-half-full attitude is laudable. And as she begins a new chapter as a single woman, there’s absolutely no doubt that she will embrace whatever adventures that fresh start brings – with a little help. ‘Female friends lift you up, they dry your tears,’ Ruth explains. And she’s right, isn’t she? The power of friendship is…

Friends of Prince Harry say he misses his ‘old life’ back in the UK, and wants to spend more time here. The Duke of Sussex maintains that he’s ‘very much enjoying’ his time in the USA, adding that ‘it’s the life my mum wanted for me’. So after all the bad blood that has been spilled between the Sussexes and the Royal Family, could Harry ever return? Or would he be a vital re-addition to a monarchy that has just had one of its most challenging years ever? Does the Royal Family actually need Harry? Royal biographer Hugo Vickers and royal editor Emily Andrews debate the pros and cons. NO HUGO VICKERS They don’t need him. Personally, I don’t think it would be at all helpful to the present King…

Sometimes, the course of your life can hinge on a single day, and one such day in April 2023 was both my bleakest ever moment, and the day my husband proposed. It was a Friday afternoon when the consultant called to deliver shattering news. He’d run out of options to treat Jonathan’s cancer – apart from clinical trials, there was nothing more they could do. We left that call emotional wrecks but there were no words left, and I was distracting myself by tidying our daughter’s room, when Jonathan asked, ‘Will you marry me?’ We tied the knot weeks later – it was a beautiful, amazing day. Jonathan and I met over 20 years ago when he was DJing at my house party – music is one of his passions,…

Receiving a bunch of flowers never fails to make me smile, whether it’s my birthday, Mother’s Day or a thank you from a friend. However simple or grand, flowers make me feel special, brightening my mood when I see them on the table. Like many of us, I’d never stopped to think about where the flowers came from or how they are grown. When I discovered that roses grown in Kenya and sold through the Waitrose Foundation directly benefit the workers – and was offered the chance to meet the women who grow them – I had to go. I visited Kenya with the Waitrose Foundation Board, on the 20th anniversary of its launch, to see for myself the amazing power each purchase can have. Our drive north from Nairobi…

Barrel JEANS Known for its curved (barrel-like) silhouette that tapers at the bottom, this shape continues to be the rising star of 2025. Also known as carrot or balloon, barrels’ soft curves mean they really do suit everyone, including pear and hourglass shapes. Pick a style that fits snugly on the hips and stops just above the ankle. If in doubt, turn them up to be slightly shorter. SHOES Avoid barrels looking too bottom-heavy with sleek footwear. Ideally, you want to create a gap between the hem and shoe, exposing your ankle bone. Styles like ballets, Mary Janes and kitten heels add a feminine touch to barrels’ utilitarian style. Boots should be slim on the ankle and always worn under the hem. Make light-wash jeans the centrepiece of your outfit…

I am a denim lover. Jeans have been a constant in my wardrobe ever since I was a teenager. Now in my 60s, I have numerous pairs collected over the years. Whatever your age, jeans are a versatile style staple. And, for me, there is something about the clothes you love and always come back to. There’s a strong sense of feeling grounded when I am wearing the right (denim) trousers. ‘Whatever your age, they are a versatile style staple’ But, like swimsuits, unless you have a favourite fit from a favourite brand and know the exact size, there is always a bit of back and forth. I recommend becoming a Denim Prepper. Buying several sizes online and returning unwanted pairs is less hassle than the changing room challenge. Or,…

IS THERE A QUICK FIX FOR DISGUISING HAIR LOSS? I’d suggest booking in with a trichologist; Philip Kingsley clinics are some of the best,philipkingsley.co.uk. In the meantime, a temporary fix for a widening parting or sparseness is to use a root retouch spray. Try Clairol Root Touch Up 2 in 1 Spray, £8.99, Boots, which as well as disguising colour regrowth, minimises signs of thinning, giving hair more volume and lift. I WOULD LIKE TO SWAP FROM A POWDER TO A CREAM BLUSH Good idea! Cream blush is more forgiving on mature skin, as it glides on without sinking into lines. Cream blushes are a staple in my make-up bag and my latest discovery is Studio 10 Plumping Blush Glow-plexion, £26, studio10beauty.com. The warm pinky hue will suit any skin…

When my cousin’s husband of two decades left her for a woman 20 years younger, she was blindsided. He was a salt-of-the-earth family man, but in the months leading up to him suddenly leaving, she said he’d been a ‘bit off’. A redundancy had seemed to ‘send him off the rails’. He became moody, started working out for long hours in the gym, showed a new interest in ‘hip’ nightclubs, and bought a motorbike and, she later found, a stash of Viagra. Then he left. ’Classic midlife crisis,’ I remember saying to her, not really knowing what that meant, but also knowing that he was displaying the sort of ‘stereotypical’ midlife-man behaviour that deserved chastising. That’s just what men of a ‘certain age’ do, isn’t it? Almost as if they…

Spicy chicken noodles With a few simple ingredients and plenty of veg, this is a good alternative to a takeaway. Serves 3-4 • Prep 10 mins • Cook 10 mins 2tsp sesame oil2 free-range chicken breasts, cut into strips1tbsp medium curry powder1 large garlic clove, crushed1tbsp fresh ginger, gratedSmall bunch spring onions, thinly sliced, plus extra to serve1 red chilli, finely diced2tbsp oyster sauce2tbsp soy sauce2tbsp rice vinegar250g shiitake mushrooms, quartered or sliced2 carrots, julienned or thinly sliced250g pak choi, leaves picked and some cut into wedges275g fresh egg noodles 1 Heat 1tsp oil in a wok or large frying pan over a high heat. Add the chicken, stirring until golden. Reduce the heat and mix in the curry powder, garlic and ginger; fry for a further 1 min. 2…

✢ A clutter-free home ✢ Storage ideas ✢ 5-minute tidy-ups ✢ Eco swaps ✢ Money-saving laundry switches Day 1 The LIVING ROOM As one of the more sociable rooms in our homes, as well as the place we relax and unwind, the living room can be a magnet for all sorts of clutter. Start by identifying the problem areas – such as coffee tables, bookshelves and sideboards – then get to work. GOT 5 MINUTES? Get in the habit of doing a ‘living room sweep’ each morning or evening, tidying and returning things to their homes. DECLUTTER YOUR LIVING ROOM Professional declutterer Heather Tingle of Untangled by Tingle (untangledbytingle.com) says: 1 BE RUTHLESS WITH HIDDEN CLUTTER in living room cupboards to free up space. Are you really going to use all…

Feasts and fortresses IN THE MED Caroline Hendrie ventures off the beaten track while sailing from Italy to Spain. The higher up the mountainside our jeep takes us, the narrower the zigzagging lanes become, until I can almost pick the caper berries tumbling down the drystone walls as we pass. Turning a sharp bend, we sweep through iron gates to be greeted by our host, Daniela, on the terrace of her villa in Lipari, the largest of the volcanic Aeolian islands off the coast of Sicily. Soon we are drinking in the views, as well as chilled rosé wine, nibbling on caper and mint canapés, olives and tangy sheep’s cheese. I gaze on olive groves sweeping down to the fortifications of Lipari town, the sparkling sea and our ship, Explora…

LOOKING FOR PERFECTION Blob by Maggie Su (£16.99, HB, Sceptre) Vi has been lonely, lost and lacking direction ever since her boyfriend broke up with her. Then one night, she finds a sentient blob in the street. She soon realises she can mould him into her dream man, but though Bob the blob may look like a movie star, Vi’s life spirals out of control until she wonders if even the perfect boyfriend can’t solve her problems. Comic, quirky and unlike any other novel. INTERCONNECTED FATES The Boy From the Sea by Garrett Carr (£16.99, HB, Pan Macmillan) Epitomising great storytelling from the off, we’re transported to a fishing village in Donegal. It’s 1973 and when a baby is discovered on the seashore, he is taken in by a couple…

A DAY IN THE LIFE OF Rev Kate Bottley The BBC Radio 2 presenter lives in Nottinghamshire with her husband Graham and their two children, Ruby and Arthur. WAKE UP I only set my alarm once a week, and that’s for 4.30am on a Sunday when I do Good Morning Sunday on Radio 2. For the rest of the week, I wake up naturally between 6am and 9am. I don’t have breakfast because I never feel hungry. MORNING Unless it’s a recording day, I will look at my diary and see what’s in there. I might have an interview to do or an article to write, or I may have someone to go and visit, because I’m what you’d call a supply vicar. I don’t have my own parish church,…

Do you know what’s top of my bucket list? Not to have one. When friends flaunt dazzling inventories of planned adventures before kicking the bucket, I feel a rising sense of panic. Bucket lists just put more pressure on women to lead big, exciting lives. In such turbulent times, I’m actually hoping to lead a less exciting life. I definitely have zero interest in yodelling in a muddy yurt at the Glastonbury festival while trying to summon up the courage to face the communal compost toilets. Nor do I want to have my aura feng shui-ed in a Himalayan ashram. Not only do I fear a third-eye infection but I’m pretty sure that by the time I ‘find myself’, there’ll be nobody home. Even less tempting than mental challenges are…

Offering a cool, celestial-inspired range of jewellery, handbags and hair accessories, Emma and Laura founded Luna Charles, a British brand creating ‘never want to take off’ pieces – without the exorbitant price tags. How did they come up with the name? They simply had to incorporate their beloved canine companions! Emma’s little Dachshund is called Luna, while Charles is the name of Laura’s gigantic American Akita. Best known for their celestial style, their jewellery pieces are inspired by their love of the moon and stars, astrology, crystal healing and, most importantly, their wonderful customers. HOW TO REDEEM To claim your 25% discount, visit lunacharles.co.uk and use code WH25 at checkout. TERMS AND CONDITIONS Offer valid from 6 February until midnight on 31 March 2025. Offer not applicable on existing or…

1 BAUKJEN Dedicated to doing good, Baukjen is one of the highest-scoring B-Corporations in fashion. It uses 99.4% responsibly sourced fabrics, 100% plastic-free and biodegradable packaging, and donates at least 10% of profits to charities each year. It also offers a rental service and a pre-loved section. All sizes 6-18 2 GANNI This Copenhagen brand is the epitome of cool and conscious. It has phased out virgin leather, opting for alternatives such as recycled, and aims to reduce carbon emissions by 50% by 2027. More high-end than high street, if you invest in one thing, make it one of its coveted accessories. 3 FATFACE FatFace is committed to being kinder to the environment, working hard to reduce its impact by using fewer chemicals, reducing water consumption and treating the people…

The perfect fragrance isn’t just about smelling great, or the final flourish to a fabulous outfit – it can benefit your wellbeing and mental health. The sense of smell is handled by the olfactory bulb in your brain, which sends information around the body. Smells have a direct route to the hippocampus, linked to emotions and memory, which is often why a certain scent can remind you of a specific person, moment or feeling. Pick your note Every scent falls into a distinctive note ‘family’, and each of these families can have a different effect on your mind. Michelle Feeney, fragrance expert and founder of Floral Street perfumes, talks us through the impact of each one. GOURMAND Smells delicious, with edible elements ‘A fragrance that’s good enough to eat! Sweet…

KATE MOSSE is a bestselling author, arts campaigner and performer. The founder of the Women’s Prize for Fiction, her latest book is Warrior Queens & Quiet Revolutionaries. On page 52, she pays tribute to some trailblazing women. Which quality have you inherited from your mum? Having an open house – everybody’s children, friends, neighbours, nieces and nephews, grandchildren – popping in for supper, sometimes moving in and staying for a while. Ma made everyone welcome and we all loved her for it. The award-winning, global bestselling author DOROTHY KOOMSON’s thrillers have connected with readers worldwide, with over 2.5 million copies sold in the UK alone. Discover how she writes on page 177. Which quality have you inherited from your mum? Probably several, but it’s her ability to keep going –…

BOLD OPULENCE…

There are writers whose books made them famous, and there are the famous who write books or employ a ‘ghost’ to do it for them. They jostle for position in the fiction charts, with intense competition in the children’s market. While critics bemoan that well-known faces jump the queue for publishing contracts, celebrity stardust does lure new readers into the bookshop – and this can only be a good thing. Julie Andrews, Mary Poppins herself, was an early adopter, with her first children’s novel, Mandy, in 1974. In 2003, Madonna’s The English Roses became the fastest-selling children’s picture book of all time. By 2019, the top five celebrity children’s writers were selling over four million books between them. In comparison, The Gruffalo co-creator Julia Donaldson sold over 1.2 million copies…

finding myself single again at the age of 63, I decided to give online dating a go. I’d been out of a relationship for two years and I was starting to wonder about meeting someone else. ‘Think of yourself as a slightly older version of Bridget Jones,’ advised a friend who’d met the love of her life online in her 60s. Encouraged, I joined one of the leading sites and waited for the magic to happen. It didn’t. I took three years off my age. Something happened, but it was a long way from being magical. ‘Think of yourself as a slightly older version of Bridget Jones’ Now, I’m a little bit overweight, but I have otherwise looked after myself – unlike the rogues’ gallery that awaited me whenever I…

In January 2021, I launched a social media campaign – #WomanInHistory – inviting people to name a woman from history they wanted to celebrate. Within days, thousands of people from all over the world were nominating women of science and law, explorers and astronauts, playwrights and poets, prime ministers and community leaders. As the names continued to roll in, I asked myself why so many of them were unknown or forgotten. It’s a question that sits at the heart of all my writing and led to my book Warrior Queens & Quiet Revolutionaries – namely, what is history? Who makes it, who decides what matters and what does not? And, most significantly, why are women’s achievements so easily and routinely overlooked or misattributed? No doubt about it, we are living…

When Fiona Pearson* wanted to check that her new house sitter was looking after her dog while she was on holiday, she looked at the video stream from the cameras at her home in the West Country. One day, she checked in to see the house sitter eating from a bag of dog treats on the sofa. A bizarre incident, which led her to decide he wasn’t the person to trust with her property, or pet. But while this sounds like a funny anecdote, it also demonstrates how surveillance culture is infiltrating our lives as some people embrace internal cameras to keep an eye on pets and small children. That’s just the tip of the iceberg, though – smart video doorbells only came on to the market about a decade…

1 Horseshoe The jeans of the moment are recognised by their extreme silhouette, which curves out wide at the hip and tapers in at the ankle. This style originates from the premium denim label Citizens of Humanity and has been adopted by high-street retailers, including M&S and Gap. The horseshoe’s bold exaggerated shape has evolved into a more wearable version – the barrel. To maximise its sculptural effect, this style is best worn with a sharp heel. £320, waist 23-34, citizensofhumanity.com 2 Flare Hailed as the most flattering of all jeans, this nostalgic shape balances out all figures, including broad shoulders and full busts. Subtly different from a bootcut, the legs flare out more dramatically from the knee, creating a bell-bottom shape. Opt for an almost floor-skimming, high-waisted pair and…

Is your complexion in a slump? Your skin changes as we go through the menopause and beyond, from a drop in collagen to a change in moisture levels, not to mention the effects of other external factors like pollution, sun or a cold snap. If your skin is looking lacklustre, now is the time to reassess and upgrade your routine for healthy, happy skin, now and for years to come. MASTER THE BASICS Hit reset Are your tried-and-tested favourites no longer working for you? It’s a common issue, according to dermatologist Dr Sophie Shotter. ‘Maybe your products aren’t as effective any more or your skin is changing,’ she says. It can be tricky to navigate what you should be using, she says, especially with new products, buzzwords and wonder ingredients…

The practice of manifesting is more popular than ever, with online searches for this self-help method soaring in recent years. But do positive intentions really work? In his latest book, Power Manifesting, hypnotist and author Paul McKenna shares his tried-and-tested methods for getting all you want from life – and more! He says that by removing the blocks that hold you back and taking step-by-step action, you can improve everything from your relationships to your bank balance. ‘Manifesting is imagining something and then bringing it into reality,’ explains Paul. ‘Think of it as a set of algorithms that unlock your dreams. Whether it’s a car you’ve always aspired to, finding love, more money or optimising your health.’ Turn over for a taster, so you can start transforming your life. HOW…

Remember being told to stay home and not touch anyone? After the pandemic, over a third* of Brits said they’d never take hugging for granted again – and we really shouldn’t, because a hug isn’t just a cosy embrace, it also has bona fide health benefits. Here’s what happens when we wrap our arms around someone. 1 BLOOD PRESSURE MIGHT BE LOWERED When you hug, there’s a release of hormones that send a signal to the vagus nerve. This nerve is responsible for a number of things, one of which is lowering blood pressure, explains Dr Deborah Lee (doctorfox.co.uk). ‘Plus, hugging also reduces the levels of the stress hormone cortisol, which can help to reduce blood pressure.’ 2 SWEET TREATS MIGHT SEEM LESS APPEALING ‘When we hug, the neurohormone oxytocin is…

What, with home workouts, you mean?’ I asked innocently, when the request came through to write a column on bedroom exercise. I sensed chuckling and winking at the other end of the e-waves. The w&h team are little monkeys and like to wind me up. I thought I was going to have to look up the calorie output of all manner of saucy things, but luckily no. We can spare ourselves those details. Saying that, though, I did google it. Apparently men burn 4.2 calories per minute and women 3.1 calories per minute. How they work that out beats me, but let’s not dwell. If the romantic month of February finds you in the loving embrace of the one you love, then we don’t want to ruin it with maths…

Avocado and bacon stack Easy to scale up to feed a crowd, the sweet/salty combo is addictive. Serves 2-3 • Prep 10 mins, plus resting • Cook 15 mins 6 rashers streaky bacon150g-200g cherry tomatoes, halved2tbsp sun-dried/sun-blushed tomatoes in oil1tbsp extra virgin olive oil1tsp red wine vinegar1tsp hot honey (or honey and a pinch of chilli flakes), plus extra to drizzleHandful basil leaves, roughly torn1 small ripe avocado, sliced50g feta, crumbled For the pancakes: 1 medium free-range egg130ml milk2tbsp unsalted butter, melted and cooled slightly, plus extra for frying130g self-raising flour½tsp baking powder½tbsp caster sugar 1 For the pancakes, mix the egg, milk and melted butter in a jug until combined. Sift the flour, baking powder, caster sugar and a pinch of salt into a mixing bowl, make a well…

At this time of year, we’re shackled to the tumble dryer, draping clothes over the radiator, and hanging sheets over doors and chairs in an attempt to get the laundry done. With sunnier spells still a few months off, when we can finally hang out our washing to dry and let nature do its work, we’ve found some innovative solutions to help keep your entire home from turning into a glorified drying rack – and save some pennies at the same time. Create your own drying cupboard If you’re considering creating a utility room or you already have one, think about installing a dedicated cupboard for drying. The energy and time-saving idea has taken off on social media, featuring a wardrobe-like cabinet with hanging space for wrinkle-free garments, drying racks…

✢ Choose items from various brands to avoid the scheme feeling staged. Splurge on key designer Scandi pieces, then bolster the look with more affordable accessories. ✢ Even a neutral home needs touches of colour and contrast. Try orangey rusts, dark browns and charcoal blacks to add warmth. ✢ Think about texture when designing a minimalist look. Tactile finishes will create a cosy feel, despite the modest decor. ✢ The stylish and functional hallway is a highlight in Sue’s home. A bench or console, plus a mirror and soft lighting, can make this transitional space feel more like a room.…

COMPELLING WOMEN The Eustace Diamonds by Anthony Trollope I first read this after my mother told me Trollope was funnier than Jane Austen. His depiction of women is second to none, and Lizzie Eustace is an anti-heroine to rival Scarlett O’Hara, stopping at nothing as she tries to hold on to the family jewels. I’ve been influenced by Trollope’s careful use of language and social niceties in my only ‘historical’ novel, The Impossible Thing. HAUNTING HORROR ‘Salem’s Lot by Stephen King I read ‘Salem’s Lot when I was about 10 years old. If I hadn’t, I would never have written Blacklands the way I did. Its impact on me was huge. I had never read a novel where a child of my age was placed in so much danger. My…

With this extra w&h fashion and beauty magazine, we’re capturing the feelgood mood that spring can bring. Who wouldn’t be cheered up by longer, brighter days, and the chance to inject a little colour into our wardrobes and our faces? From trying something new with your hair and make-up to wearing an outfit you’d never normally choose and looking fabulous, we want to inspire you to be the best version of yourself. We also have 25% off at jewellery and bags brand Luna Charles. Here’s to looking good and feeling great this season. Enjoy! MEET THE TEAM Look Good Feel Great editors: Sarah Cooper-White, group beauty director, and Paula Moore, group fashion director Senior beauty editor Rhiannon Derbyshire Beauty editor Stephanie Maylor Beauty writer Annie Milroy Fashion editor Hannah Hughes…

RED ‘This shade encourages physical attraction – so they say, and is sometimes known as having a “red romance” effect. It’s a courageous colour occasionally associated with danger, but it may give you an energy boost, so wear it when feeling a little overtired.’ GREEN ‘This colour encourages you to make changes, improves your focus and boosts your creativity. The brighter versions of the shade are closely linked to joy and positive emotions.’ BLUE ‘Although this shade is often associated with the phrase “feeling blue”, there’s nothing that could make you feel more confident and uplifted than when you wear the brighter hues. Blue also conveys stability and reliability.’ YELLOW ‘Because it’s associated with sunlight, yellow can trigger feelings of happiness and self-confidence. It’s thought to have a direct influence…

Bitter temperatures, pollution, the stress of modern living, the irresistible pull of gravity – they can be ruinous for your face. Where once everything was lifted, firm and tight, your face may now have sunken and drooped, leaving you looking a little bit sad. Pair this ‘grumpy resting face’ with the winter blues, and it can feel like a gloomy time of year for your face. With these top tips, uplifting treats and tweakments that really work, a cheerier complexion could be within reach. Time to turn that frown upside down. THE SEASONAL SWAP-OVER The right skincare for the time of year can transform your complexion. In fact, many skin issues, from dullness to fine lines, are actually just down to dehydration. But first up, work out whether your skin…

When you don’t have time to meditate, attend yoga classes or enjoy a regular massage, try using your daily beauty rituals as your opportunity to de-stress. ‘We live in a chaotic world and nothing is more important than allowing time for yourself. Create a solid at-home routine to reset the mind, body and spirit,’ says Nichola Joss, skincare and beauty expert, and co-founder of Hopothecary. ‘Having self-care procedures at home – like light massage, stretching, meditation and gentle breathing techniques – are invaluable,’ she adds. ‘Take time out to walk in the countryside or parks, hug a tree and then talk to some cows! All these things will help to create better sleep patterns, reduce anxiety and ease stress.’ It can even be as simple as getting more from your…

£49.99, sizes s-l, superdry.com; Rouge À Lèvres Matte Lipstick, 501 in Constance Vermillon, £37, Gucci at John Lewis £20, sizes 8-22, Nutmeg at Morrisons; Revlon ColourStay lipstick in Want It All, £6.99, Revlon at lookfantastic.com £75, sizes 6-22, scampanddude.com; Macximal silky matte lipstick in Honey Love, £25, maccosmetics.co.uk £180, sizes xs-xl, slowloveknitwear.com; Elizabeth Arden lip colour lipstick in Daring Coral, £27, elizabetharden.co.uk £65, sizes xs-xl, Boden; Nabla matte leisure lipstick in Carnal Flower, £4.99, TK Maxx £75, sizes xs-xl, French Connection; Charlotte Tilbury Hot Lips in Kim K.W., £28, charlottetilbury.com £55, sizes 6-18, Oliver Bonas; Laura Mercier Petal Soft lipstick crayon in Camille, £28.50, lauramercier.co.uk £56, sizes 6-24, FatFace; E.l.f. O Face satin lipstick in Standing Ovation, £9, elfcosmetics.co.uk £65, sizes xs-xl, nobodyschild.com; & Other Stories matte lip colour in…

STAR LETTER CPR SUPPORT Thank you for your Everyday Heroes article [January]. CPR is a vital skill but providing it is still a scary experience – even witnessing can be shocking. The British Heart Foundation offers CPR bystander support at bhf.org.uk – I found it so helpful after witnessing someone receive CPR. Anne-Marie SPREADING JOY I volunteer in a Macmillan cafe, and when it’s quiet I grab a w&h from the bookshelf. I have secondary breast cancer, and your magazine has often lifted my mood and made me feel more positive. I recommend it to patients and relatives, who regularly return to tell me they now get w&h for themselves. Keep up the great work. Karen TERRIFIC TRAVEL Thank you for the wonderful w&h travel supplement that came with the…

From David Tennant and Ricky Gervais to Dustin Hoffman, Claire Foy and the inimitable Judi Dench – Rachel Freck has worked with a glittering line-up of names. An Emmy Award-winning casting director, she has a talent for selecting the right actor for the role. Her credits include The Office, Little Dorrit, Howards End, W1A, Nativity 1 and 2, and even an Ed Sheeran pop video. But Rachel, who is in her 50s and lives in Balham, London, with her partner Anthony, says it’s not nearly as glitzy as people might think. ‘You hear a voice in your head and it’s exciting’ Being a casting director sounds so glamorous. Is that the reality? No! It’s definitely not glamorous in any way. There’s the occasional invite to a screening, premiere or set…

Woman&home Christmas Live will be back this year for another stylish celebration of the festive season, with more celebrities, fashion, food and beauty than ever before. Tickets aren’t on sale yet, but if you would like a sneak peek inside this festive extravaganza and want to start planning your Christmas celebrations early, then read on. With this year’s show set to take place on 22 November at London’s iconic County Hall, you will experience two floors of festive magic in seriously swish style. There will be exclusive access to celebrity talks and experts (last year’s event saw Trinny Woodall, Fern Britton and Ruth Langsford, among others, hit the stage!), and a VIP lounge* to unwind and pamper, with complimentary food and fizz. Then, of course, there’s the much-loved luxurious…

This photo was taken in October 1994 in County Clare, Ireland. It was my first holiday with Tony, the man I went on to marry. I’d taken him there because it’s the place I love most in the whole world. My mother is from Clare, all my childhood holidays were spent on the beach in Lahinch, swimming in the Atlantic, and I needed Tony to love it as much as I did. Because if he didn’t, well… was it a sign that we weren’t meant to be? The relationship was new. We’d been together just a couple of months and although it felt solid and serious, I suppose I was looking for endorsement from the universe. Tony is English, this was his first visit to Ireland and we based ourselves…

The dress A denim dress is a ready-made outfit that works all year round. For a modern update, look for directional details such as pretty bows, statement pockets and edgy zips. A classic fit-and-flare shape will flatter, and a midi length looks chic with either knee-high boots or sporty trainers. The jacket This dependable layering tool will make any outfit look instantly cool. Choose a silhouette that works for you and opt for a slightly bigger size for that relaxed look. Denim jackets are perfect for making dressier pieces daytime-appropriate. The jumpsuit This all-in-one has throw-on-and-go appeal that makes everyday dressing a breeze. Mastering a smart-casual balance, keep it polished with a wide-leg cut and a belted waist, and offset the slouchier look with some delicate heels. The waistcoat The newest…

Q My GP prescribed hormone replacement therapy (HRT), as I had menopausal symptoms after my periods stopped two years ago. I can’t tolerate the progesterone tablet, but I’m doing really well with the oestrogen – it’s totally stopped my flushes. Does it matter that I don’t take the progesterone? A Yes! If you have a womb you must take progesterone regardless of when your periods stopped. Taking oestrogen on its own can thicken the lining of the womb and increase your risk of endometrial cancer. It’s essential you take the progesterone, as the consequences can be very serious. If you haven’t been taking it for a long time, I suggest you tell your doctor exactly how long, as they are likely to refer you for a scan. Don’t get on…

TO START Pear and walnut salad Crisp leaves with salty cheese and a sweet, tangy dressing. Ready in 20 mins 30g walnut pieces½tbsp runny honey1 pear75g red chicory leavesHandful mixed leaves40g blue cheese, we used Bleu d’Auvergne For the dressing: 1tbsp white wine vinegar½tbsp honey2tbsp extra virgin olive oil1tsp Dijon mustard¼tsp fine sea salt 1 In a small pan over medium heat, toast the nuts, mixing occasionally for 5-10 mins. Stir in the honey and bubble for 30 seconds, then tip on to a sheet of baking paper to cool. 2 Grate half of the pear into a mixing bowl. Add the dressing ingredients and mix well. Toss with the leaves and cheese then tip on to a platter. Thinly slice the other half of the pear and arrange on…

Viva España It’s nearly 30 years since Brindisa first opened its doors in London’s Borough Market, championing the delights of Spanish food and many beloved brands, including the now-legendary Perelló Gordal olives. Recently celebrating its 60th birthday, Perelló’s range is a favourite of chefs and home cooks all over the UK, and has grown to encompass cooked pulses, jarred pickles and a range of snacks alongside its iconic tinned olives. We recently tried the newest additions, which include several varieties of salted and smoked almonds, spicy, dried broad beans, and maize kernels, all perfect for serving with drinks or as a quick snack. Find the whole Perelló range at Brindisa’s online store, and selected supermarkets and retailers. TREND TO TRY New Libyan spice paste WHAT IS IT? Ottolenghi Pilpelchuma Marinade,…

We may like to keep our homes sparkling clean, but could we be unintentionally damaging the planet in the process? From products packaged in non-recyclable plastic bottles, which take hundreds of years to break down, to toxic chemicals being washed down sinks and flushed down toilets, damaging aquatic life, many traditional cleaning products are having a detrimental effect on the environment. So what can we do? ‘If everyone transitioned to green cleaning solutions – ditching single-use plastic bottles for lifelong, refillable options and adopting concentrated formulas – the reduction in carbon footprint could be profound,’ say Purdy Rubin and Charlotte Figg, co-founders of all-natural cleaning company Purdy & Figg. ‘Making these switches would lead to fewer nonrenewable materials being produced, less environmental pollution from manufacturing by-products and reduced aquatic contamination.…

If your bathroom is failing to bring you joy, but a refit is out of the question, there are lots of pocket-friendly updates you can try to breathe new life into the space. Think practical storage that also looks good, a fresh lick of paint, or adding pattern with wallpaper. Plants and wall art are important too – adding these little styling details can work wonders. Freshen up TEXTILES Bathrooms often end up being plain and functional spaces, made up of hard surfaces and lacking in colour, but this doesn’t have to be the case. Designer Vanessa Arbuthnott explains, ‘A blind, basin skirt or a small upholstered chair can all be used to add colour and pattern. A roller blind with a pelmet to cover the roll and mechanism is…

The founder of studio and exhibition space Cambridge Art Cube (cambridgeartcube.co.uk), Isabel has lived in the city for the past three years. She first fell in love with its historic streets while visiting her daughter, who was a student at King’s College. I suggest starting at King’s Parade, where you can visit the beautiful chapel of King’s College, built by Henry VI in the mid-15th century. Its fan-vaulted roof is a work of genius. Nearby is the unmissable Corpus Clock, made by Dr John C Taylor OBE. His ingenious timepiece features a chronophage, or ‘time-eating’ creature, on the top (corpus.cam.ac.uk). A few minutes’ walk away, refuel with coffee and lunch at the Michaelhouse Cafe, a lofty space enclosed within St Michael’s church, in Trinity Street. Work by local artists is…

Jojo Moyes credits Me Before You as the book that changed everything. The author’s ninth novel was a triumph, selling 14 million copies worldwide and becoming a major film. Known for her complex characters and turning relatable situations into compelling stories, Jojo is a definite go-to in women’s fiction. Her latest novel, We All Live Here, follows Lila, who is already navigating a broken marriage, two daughters and an elderly stepdad when Gene, her real father, shows up, and life becomes even more complicated. For the last 10 years I’ve watched women around me, including myself, holding up the world. Lila, my main character, is younger than me, but she is me and every woman. We are part of the sandwich generation, with children who bring their own challenges, managing…

Star sign of the month PISCES 19 FEBRUARY – 20 MARCH Those currently struggling get help around the 12th, and everyone sees something come to a head with the 14th’s Full Moon. The following two weeks aren’t the best for talking things through. Take your time and explore all the options. YOUR MONTHS AHEAD Taskmaster planet Saturn in Pisces all 2025 brings some challenges, especially for March birthdays. You’re working hard, and could see benefits from past effort. This spring you review an important relationship, with work or yourself. Call 0905 789 4161* and choose weekly, monthly and yearly updates. ARIES 21 MARCH – 19 APRIL Just as you’re moving forwards on some fronts, relationships start throwing you curveballs. Unresolved issues or even exes could surface. It’s time for a rethink.…

Getting playful with make-up will inject new life into your face, and help your complexion look fresher and younger. ‘Make-up should be about having fun,’ urges make-up artist Ruby Hammer. ‘As we age, we lose some of the colour from our faces, so opting for bright shades is a great idea.’ There’s nothing more uplifting than a swipe of bright lippy or a sweep of mascara to cheer you up when you need it most. Switch out old muted tones with fresh pops of colour to revive your complexion and lift your mood. For your LIPS Find your perfect shade ✢ Red denotes power and passion, and says, ‘I’m confident in myself and mean business.’ Try MAC Matte Lipstick in Ruby Woo, £16, John Lewis. ✢ Pink relates to our…

Italians call it sprezzatura, or dressing with a twist. Adding an unexpected item in the wardrobe area. It is so easy to get stuck in a style rut, to stay in your lane – but taking a fashion risk can add mileage to any wardrobe. Blending day and eveningwear together, or mixing smart and casual, playing around with different textures – a sprinkling of sprezzatura could be the difference between boring and brilliant. Forget the same-old, same-old; introducing an outlier is one way to instantly boost an outfit. These silver leather trousers are not my usual thing but I am much less risk-averse these days, much more willing to experiment. It must be my age. Fancy pants look great with a navy peacoat and jumper, toned down with an oversized…