Innholdsfortegnelse for December 2025 i Woman & Home

Christmas. A time for celebration, a time for giving and receiving, a time for tradition and togetherness, and of hope. But, what about the dress code? Are you a stay-in-your-festive-pyjamas type or do you like to go all out and bring the glamour to the living room? I’m the latter. Any excuse to deck myself in dazzle and I’m in. In fact, Covid times (dare I mention them?) taught me a lot, and I’m not talking about the fact that homeschooling ruled out being a teacher for me… No, I’m talking about wearing loungewear day in, day out. Now when there’s a bash, you can rely on me to bring the sequins and the sparkle. Much, I imagine, like Joanna Lumley might. Glamorous and graceful, our Christmas cover girl is…

TO THE MAX Step into party season with this elegant burgundy maxi dress in a soft ribbed knit — ideal for adding warmth to your winter wardrobe. EAR PARTY A dazzling pair of earrings will transform any outfit from drab to fab in seconds. Plus, they’re perfect for popping in your bag for the office do. GOING FOR GOLD A showstopping skirt is essential for party season, and this high-street style brings high-end glam. Pair with a white shirt or black tux jacket.…

A snow-flocked tree shimmers with tinsel and lights, beautifully wrapped gifts are piled beneath, and the scent of freshly baked yule log wafts through the air as All I Want for Christmas Is You plays. And there, at the heart of woman&home’s Christmas cover-shoot wonderland, is Joanna Lumley with a glass of perfectly chilled Bollinger champagne in hand. ’God bless Mariah Carey. My Christmas isn’t Christmas without that girl,’ says the actor, her velvety voice instantly recognisable after almost six decades in the biz. Five years after being turned down by RADA at 16, Joanna became a single mother (her photographer son Jamie is now 58) and started a career in modelling, before landing roles in shows like Coronation Street, Steptoe & Son and ITV’s The New Avengers. Then, in…

The hurt and heartbreak of family breakdown are no respecters of rank or royalty. The past five years has seen the Duke of Sussex estranged from his family after he hurled public grenade after public grenade in their direction. Yet in September, the first meeting between the King and Harry in 19 months has suggested a thaw in relations. Could it mean Harry bringing Meghan and their two children, Archie and Lilibet, to a family Christmas at Sandringham? Harry, 41, has made no secret of the fact he’d like to kiss and make up. But after the many criticisms he’s thrown at them, through his autobiography Spare and Netflix film deals, even he admits it will be an uphill battle. Earlier this year, he told the BBC, ‘There have been…

There’s lots about the festive season I enjoy. I love the food, buying gifts and catching up with friends – it’s just the pressure of Christmas Day itself that I find completely overwhelming. Nine years ago, aged 38, I was diagnosed with autism and ADHD. It helped me – and those around me – to understand why, since my childhood, I couldn’t see the point of it all. I cringed at the fake jolliness and hated being confined close to other people. Over the years, I’ve realised there’s no right or wrong Christmas – it’s a time we should all be permitted to do whatever we enjoy. And so I’ve explored many alternative ways to spend it, which might just inspire an adventure for you. 1 The magic of PANTO…

Q Last year, my husband’s sister spent four days at our house over Christmas, but this year, she’s suggesting she stays almost double that time. She has already looked into treating us to panto tickets and a concert as a thank you, which is kind but makes me feel obliged to say yes. She lives 200 miles away and we are hosting, so it makes sense, but she doesn’t help out much, so I feel like a skivvy. Plus she talks non-stop and my husband tends to disappear on errands, so I’m stuck with her. How can I diplomatically limit her to four days again? Our son is going to his in-laws this Christmas, so I can’t use him as an excuse. ‘Limit her stay without turning into the bad…

If you’ve ever thought your darling dog might deserve a Christmas treat as much as you, you’re not alone. Today, Brits are opening their wallets wider than ever before, with the Office for National Statistics estimating UK households now spend a staggering £9.89 billion annually on their beloved pooches – almost double the spend of a decade earlier. With 36% of Britain’s 28.7 million households owning a dog and the average dog owner spending approximately £1,875 per year on their precious pup, that’s quite some commitment. And the budget goes through the roof at Christmas, with a recent survey by Pets at Home revealing that more than two-thirds (68%) of pet owners are ready to treat their furry friends this festive season, with many planning to spend up to £50…

Before setting up home together, any couple would be well advised to open up their hearts for an honest, no-holds-barred conversation about where they stand on… Christmas lights. One person’s flashing, blow-up snowman is another’s seasonal migraine. Even when he’s packed away in the attic come January, you’ll somehow always know he’s there. Barring a stealthy assault with the kitchen scissors, Snowy will be with you for life. Different approaches In households up and down the country, the ‘more the merrier’ principle of Christmas lighting comes into direct conflict with ‘less is more’ restraint. There are those who don’t feel Christmas is Christmas without covering every inch of the house in an extravagant light show, complete with ‘Santa, stop here’ signs and illuminated nine-foot ladders leading to upstairs windows. This…

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Q I’m so embarrassed – I’ve just started to date someone new, but I sometimes leak urine after sex. I don’t know what to do – what can help stop it? A It’s a common and often embarrassing issue, but believe me when I say, you are not alone. I see many cases where women leak small amounts of urine during or after sex, and it often links to the pelvic-floor muscles. These muscles support the bladder, womb and bowel. If they are weakened during childbirth, ageing or the menopause, they may struggle to keep the bladder closed during moments of pressure like penetrative sex or orgasm. Don’t forget, sometimes what feels like leaking urine is actually semen or vaginal lubrication, which is entirely normal. But if it is…

TOP FESTIVE FIZZ BEST NO ALCOHOL Bolle Sparkling Blanc de Blancs, £19.99, bolledrinks.com Bright and crisp with just the right touch of acidity and notes of apple and pear, this sparkling alcohol-free sip is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Twice-fermented, vegan and low-calorie, it’s a special choice for everyone to enjoy. BEST PREMIUM SPARKLING Simpsons Wine Estate Canterbury Rose Sparkling Rosé 2021, £35, simpsonswine.com Appealing, pale-pink blush colour that looks lovely in the glass. Our judges rated it as an elegant and refined easy-drinking wine, with just the right level of fizz. Great with canapés. BEST SUPERMARKET HOUSE CHAMPAGNE Booths Brut Champagne, £29, booths.co.uk If you’re looking for a classy champagne that doesn’t cost the earth, supermarket own labels are always worth a look. This one has orchard fruit and…

Do you remember the first time you stared up at the night sky to the stars? To a child, the universe is mind-boggling, vast, breathtaking and ancient, although it somehow slips out of focus as we get older. Time to just look up and ponder the bigger picture is lost. But now, a rise in astrotourism holiday experiences is putting the celestial magic back into our lives. ‘Dark skies are good for people, good for economic development and good for the planet,’ says Susan Serven of DarkSky International, which advocates for protecting our night-time landscapes. With an estimated 80% of the planet now suffering from light pollution, is it time we thought about protecting our skyscapes, just like forests, lakes or oceans? Not only are dark skies beneficial for…

Festive favourites All Wrapped Up by Heidi Swain (£9.99, PB, Simon & Schuster) Anyone who’s ever nursed a broken heart is sure to find a kindred spirit in Clemmie. Widowed and slowly putting herself back together while she restores her cottage in Wynbridge, her life of solitude is suddenly disrupted by new friends, a sense of purpose and a potential mate in handsome vet Ash. But is she ready to fall in love again? A cosy read, full of heart-warming community spirit, just right for curling up with by a log fire. It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas by Hayley Dunlop (£9.99, PB, Canelo) While it’s not your average feel-good read, there’s plenty of festive warmth alongside the emotionally charged storyline. Mally Allister sees herself as predictable, like…

A DAY IN THE LIFE OF Jasmine Harman The A Place in the Sun presenter, who turns 50 in November, lives in Spain. WAKE UP I’m usually up by 6.30am. The first thing I do is take our Labrador cross, Astro, for a walk. If my cameraman husband Jon is around, we share the duty, but often the walk is just me and I love my quiet me time. We moved to the Costa del Sol in August 2023. The beach is just a couple of minutes from our house, so I get to see the sunrise most mornings. BREAKFAST Mornings are always a bit of a scramble. I make sure my children [Joy, 12, and Albion, nine] are fed and packed for school. I’m not one for eating early…

CAPRICORN 22 DECEMBER – 19 JANUARY From 15th, when ambitious Mars arrives in Capricorn, there’s pressure to perform. Then Venus arrives on the 25th, bringing comfort and joy – and great bargains! Call 0905 789 4159* and choose weekly, monthly and yearly updates AQUARIUS 20 JANUARY – 18 FEBRUARY Fun kicks in around the 5th. Money is a theme on Christmas Day. Have you spent too much? Or someone else not enough? Call 0905 789 4160* and choose weekly, monthly and yearly updates PISCES 19 FEBRUARY – 20 MARCH Be careful of Christmas shopping around the 8th, when you’re tempted to splurge. The Pisces Moon on Christmas Day suggests you will fare best at home. Call 0905 789 4161* and choose weekly, monthly and yearly updates ARIES 21 MARCH –…

Beef bourguignon The wine plays a big role in this comforting classic, so try to use one you’d be happy to drink. Serves 6 • Prep 20 mins • Cook 3 hrs 15 mins 2kg stewing steak, cut into 6 pieces 2tbsp plain flour 2tbsp olive oil 1 shallot, finely chopped 2 onions, sliced 1 garlic clove, crushed 75ml brandy 500ml Burgundy red wine 250ml beef stock 2 sprigs thyme 2 bay leaves 25g butter 150g pancetta, cut into small chunks 100g small baby onions 200g small chestnut mushrooms Mashed potatoes, to serve 1 Toss the beef with the flour and some salt and pepper. Heat a large, ovenproof sauté pan, then add half the olive oil. Add the beef and fry over a medium-high heat until browned on both…

Christmas Linzer torte This cake is named after the city of Linz in Austria, where it originated. Serves 12 • Prep 30 mins, plus chilling • Cook 30-40 mins, plus cooling 240g plain flour, plus extra for dusting30g cocoa powder200g ground almonds175g caster sugar2tsp gingerbread spice (see tip)200g cold unsalted butter, cubed, plus extra for greasing1 medium free-range egg, plus1 yolk, beaten, for glazing1tbsp almond liqueur (optional)200g raspberry jamIcing sugar, for dusting You will need: 23-25cm springform cake tin, greased and lined with baking paper 1 Sift the flour, cocoa powder, almonds, sugar and spice into a big bowl. Rub in the butter, then knead in the whole egg and liqueur, if using, until a dough forms and it holds together. Cover and chill for 1 hr. 2 Heat the…

Award-winning actor, comedian and writer MIRANDA HART joins a host of celebs and stars who share their festive traditions, on page 56. What do you wear on Christmas Day? It was the convention in my family to look smartish but I flew in the face of that as soon as I could with, what I call, novelty attire! I will be in some kind of themed pyjama or tracksuit (the onesie became impractical for toilet-based reasons…). LADY ANNE GLENCONNER was lady-in-waiting to Princess Margaret until her death. Her bestselling books have sold over one million copies worldwide. On page 58, she tells us about Christmas at her home in Norfolk. What do you wear on Christmas Day? I go to church on Christmas Day and, as it can be very…

FESTIVE SCENTS…

Shirley Ballas, 65 Christmas is a time of reflection, and brings both happiness and sadness for my mum [Audrey Rich, 88] and I. We lost my brother David to suicide in December 2003, and we’ve only celebrated Christmas again for the last six or seven years. My mother and I support each other, and David is a big part of our Christmas. We always set a space for him at the table, we talk about him, his photograph is there, we pick the napkins he liked, and every year an old angel decoration that David bought goes up on the tree. Our colours are always red and gold because David was a Liverpool fan. My Christmas preparations start early. I shop for presents all year round, and by the middle…

A century ago, Yuletide celebrations were nothing without satin gowns and formal furs. Now it’s all signature sweaters and matching pyjamas, proof that style need not be stiff to be special – much like our celebrations where formal occasions with fancy canapés and copious guests are in decline. For many, get-togethers now revolve around a relaxed mix of friends and family, fizz on the sofa and a second helping of pudding in comfy loungewear. Just look how far we’ve come. 1950s Polished and prim post-war parties After years of ‘make do and mend’, the 50s heralded an era of prosperity. Fashion followed with a focus on looking picture-perfect, and styles embraced an hourglass silhouette with a cinched waist and full petticoat. The casual look for chaps was epitomised by a…

Whether it’s a round of charades, baking cookies or the annual viewing of Elf, festive traditions help you connect with those you love most. Some are universal, while others are beautifully unique. In Poland, for example, an extra place is set at the table, ready to welcome any unexpected guest. We’ve loved hearing about the traditions these authors treasure the most. MIRANDA HART ‘I SPEND TWIXMAS IN ONLY A DRESSING GOWN – IF ANYTHING!’ I have many Christmas traditions. I once confounded some TV viewers trying to explain the game, ‘This is a spoon…’ (if you know, you know, if you don’t, you’re probably better off!). And I’ve often shared that I will find a place for bread sauce and brandy butter at every meal – cholesterol depending, these days.…

That fuzzy festive feeling is all around us. From a weepy TV ad to the shop windows packed with objects of desire, Christmas is a time of family togetherness, joy and abundance. But for those who are feeling alone or unwell, or experiencing sadness or hardship, the jingle-bells season can be particularly painful. It’s also a day when people – and animals – who rely on support from others still need a helping hand. Thanks to millions of volunteers across the country who generously give their time, however, Christmas can be a season of hope and cheer, as well as reassurance. Five women who selflessly volunteer on the big day explain why they do, and what they get out of it. So if you’ve been thinking about giving your time,…

STYLISH HOMES Bold ideas for the interiors-obsessed STOCKING FILLERS £10 or under MODERN GENTS All he wants and more BEAUTY LOVERS Indulgent treats for you and your loved ones STOCKING FILLERS £10 or under FABULOUS & FASHIONABLE Beautiful buys for the most stylish wardrobes STOCKING FILLERS £10 or under SUBSCRIBE TO W&H this Christmas! Find our fantastic festive offer – six issues for £6 – at womanandhome.com/Hol25 or call 0330 333 1113 and quote DL92C. Lines open Mon-Fri 8.30am-7pm and Sat 10am-3pm (GMT). Offer closes 10 January 2026*. >> WELLNESS SEEKERS These feel-good finds will boost body and mind this season – and beyond! STOCKING FILLERS £10 or under FOODIE FAVOURITES Gourmet gifts and tasty morsels for connoisseurs TRENDY TEENS Fun ideas for the hard-to-please STOCKING FILLERS £10 or under…

Life is full of surprises. Now that I’m older and greyer, I like wearing pink. Coming from a perennial tomboy, this is quite an admission. But given the right shade – and it has to be bang on – cherry blossom can look modern and edgy, as opposed to Barbara Cartland and Barbie. Choosing an unexpected colour for the festivities is a neat way to boost any outfit, bah humbug mood and dull midwinter complexion. It doesn’t mean getting decked out like a Christmas market – it can be subtle. Instead of black, try beautiful midnight blue, a full-bodied burgundy or a sumptuous forest green (just don’t wear it with bright red or you might be mistaken for Zooey Deschanel in Elf). And remember, antique gold never looks old. Head-to-toe…

HOW CAN I BRIGHTEN MY SKIN? If you’re not already using a vitamin C serum, it’s time to start – especially at this time of year, when too much festive fun can leave skin looking dull. Use Nini Organics Juicy Multi-C Bio Brightening Serum, £102, niniorganics.com, each morning, and the powerful blend of plant-based vitamin C and brightening extracts will give your complexion an instant glow. IS THERE A WAY TO STOP MY HAIR FALLING FLAT? Invest in a good dry shampoo. Sprayed into freshly blow-dried hair at the roots, it helps a style last days without going lank. I love Living Proof Velvet Amber Advanced Clean Dry Shampoo, £27, spacenk.com. The limited-edition scent smells divine too. I’M AFTER A LONG-LASTING RED LIPSTICK THAT’S NOT DRYING My latest make-up discovery…

The first Christmas I spent with my husband’s parents (when we’d only been dating a few months), I unwrapped a pair of expensive Ray-Ban sunglasses from them as they sat and watched, along with his sister and her boyfriend. I almost burst into tears of gratitude, never having been gifted anything so swanky, especially by people who barely knew me. As I jumped up to thank them for such a generous gift, they said that maybe I should open the packaging, as the present ‘might not be quite what it seems’. All eyes still on me, I did just that, revealing a bag-for-life shopping tote – the sunglasses box just a vessel for neat wrapping. ‘Deep down, the dread stems from the fear of disappointing our loved ones’ We all…

Creamy chicken and tarragon pie The crowning glory is a pie crust made from cheese straws – utterly addictive! Serves 6 • Prep 30 mins, plus cooling • Cook 1 hr 30 mins 1.5kg whole chicken, brought to room temperature 2 onions, 1 halved, 1 chopped 2 sticks celery, 1 halved, 1 chopped 2 carrots, 1 halved, 1 chopped 500ml chicken stock 1 bay leaf 1 sprig thyme 90g butter 70g plain flour 2tbsp double cream 2tbsp Dijon mustard 15g fresh tarragon, finely chopped 2 x 320g sheets ready-rolled puff pastry, defrosted if frozen 1 medium free-range egg, beaten 200g Cheddar and Gruyère, grated Blanched green beans, to serve (optional) You will need: 20x25cm ceramic oven dish 1 Put the chicken in a large saucepan with the halved onion, celery,…

Nestled in an Oxfordshire village near Henley-on-Thames, Nettlebed has been in the same family since 1901, bought originally by Rose’s great-grandfather. Rose – who previously worked in the food industry selling produce from Orkney at Borough Market and to top London restaurants – moved to the family farm in 2014, to help diversify the superlative milk into cheese. Today the award-winning creamery produces three organic cheeses: Witheridge in Hay, Bix and Highmoor, plus unhomogenised milk and kefir. Here, Rose offers her festive cheeseboard tips. VISIT THE CREAMERY There is a shop on-site, as well as an open barn called The Cheese Shed, where you can enjoy cheese toasties prepared with its multi-award-winning cheese, and locally ground coffee brewed with its milk; nettlebedcreamery.com 1 Witheridge in Hay A semi-hard cheese with…

UNEXPECTED BONDS My Friends by Fredrik Backman (£16.99, HB, Simon & Schuster) This moving story explores the power of friendship and the unexpected ways lives intersect. When a group of teenagers’ summer bond from 25 years earlier resurfaces as a mysterious painting, a young woman embarks on a cross-country journey to uncover its origins, encountering joy, loss and resilience. The tale celebrates female determination while showing how connections, both old and new, can transform lives in surprising ways. WITTY RESISTANCE Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus (£9.99, PB, Transworld) Elizabeth Zott, a brilliant chemist in the 1960s, faces sexism and societal expectations, yet refuses to be sidelined. When she unexpectedly becomes the host of a cooking show, she uses science to empower her predominately female audience, blending wit, intelligence and…

EDINBURGH WINTER FESTIVAL Multiple locations across Edinburgh Scotland’s answer to Winter Wonderland, Edinburgh’s Winter Festival, which sees the beautiful city centre transformed, is spectacular. With traditional Christmas markets, funfair rides, live outdoor events, delicious food and drink, and so much more, it’s sure to get even the biggest Scrooges into the festive spirit. ✢ edwinterfest.com/edinburgh-christmas CHRISTMAS CAROL GOES WRONG Multiple locations, including Salford, Cheltenham, Cardiff, Bath, London and Nottingham Fancy a night out at the theatre to get you in the Christmas spirit? Then this is the play for you! The Cornley Amateur Drama Society – the award-winning company behind The Play That Goes Wrong – takes on its latest show, the Charles Dickens classic, A Christmas Carol. Expect plenty of festive mayhem and chaos. ✢ mischiefcomedy.com/whats-on/christmas-carol-goes-wrong/tour LAPLAND UK Multiple…

What I hate about Christmas office parties is having to pack my belongings into a small cardboard box the next morning and trudge off to the unemployment office. I’m afraid the heady combination of alcohol, mistletoe, photocopy machines, silly hats, antlers and Yuletide demob euphoria has been known to bring out the worst in me. A friend’s or neighbour’s festive party isn’t much safer. So with party season upon us, a refresher course on the new rules and top tips can’t go astray. First off, dress code… is it OK to wear a saucy Santa outfit to a house party? Definitely! And so much more preferable than a hideous Christmas-themed jumper. Every wife in the world knits her eyebrows with horror at the sudden appearance of knitwear emblazoned with reindeer…

Chocolate yule log We’ve updated the traditional yule log with this clever idea. It only uses one cake and one buttercream, so it’s much easier than it first appears. We’ve used white chocolate shards to decorate, but you could use Matchmakers or other chocolate fingers. Serves 8-10 • Prep 30 mins • Cook 10 mins 4 medium free-range eggs150g golden caster sugar140g plain flour4tbsp cocoa powder, plus extra for dusting½tsp baking powder½ 370g jar Opies cherries in kirsch For the buttercream: 250g unsalted butter250g icing sugar, plus extra for dusting3tbsp cherry jam For the white chocolate shards: 200g white chocolate, chopped You will need: 35x25cm tin, lined with baking paper 1 Heat the oven to 180C Fan. Whisk the eggs and sugar with an electric mixer until rich, thick and…

Leek, bacon and potato Gruyère gratin A main dish in its own right, this also makes a wonderful side with roast meat or ham. Serves 4 • Prep 15 mins • Cook 1 hr 30 mins 3 large leeks, roughly chopped2tbsp olive oil75g smoked pancetta, chopped200g waxy potatoes300ml double cream200ml whole milk100ml hot vegetable or chicken stock3-4 sprigs thyme, leaves picked and choppedPinch grated nutmeg50g Gruyère, grated 1 Heat the oven to 140C Fan. Wash the leeks well, then drain them thoroughly and put in a large ceramic gratin dish. Add the oil and a generous pinch of salt and toss well to coat. Scatter the pancetta over the top, then cook for 30 mins. 2 Meanwhile, finely slice the potatoes (ideally, use a mandoline for this). 3 After 30…

REMEMBER ME Reading Have You Ever Met a Relaxed Woman? [October], I decided to make time for myself. I’ve spent every day recently visiting my husband on a cancer ward, ensuring he and my family have all they need. My anxiety is through the roof. Your feature reminded me to check my own welfare; I’d forgotten about myself. Kristina SOLO HIGHS I really resonated with Laura Lippman’s piece in Single & (Mostly) Loving It! [September]. She told how her husband ended their marriage after 18 years. I had a similar experience and, after the initial shock, it was the best thing that’s happened to me. Being in control of my own destiny is the best feeling ever. Susan CHEERING FOR JO Your interview with Jo Wiley [September] made me nod,…

Whether you’re a golden girl or a silver siren, ‘tis the season to indulge in something shiny. But why stick to just one piece? Mix up your metals and layer bronze or gold with silver to bring a contemporary twist to the look. Or for something more low-key, a glossy shoe or shimmery shirt will amp up the glamour on your wardrobe basics to ensure they’re party-ready. Pair with matching trousers or sleek separates for instant glam. Master high-low dressing by pairing statement trousers with a cosy knit.…

‘I’M SO PROUD TO HAVE A CHRISTMAS DAY BABY’ Gilly Bell, 62, and her husband Gregory, 64, from the Cotswolds, are parents to Poppy, 33. On Christmas Eve 1991, I was in labour at the Jessop Hospital For Women in Sheffield, as the maternity nurses speculated on whether I’d have the first Christmas Day baby of the year. I was excited too, but as the 21-hour labour continued, delivering a healthy child was all that was on my mind. Gregory was by my side, and we both cried when Poppy arrived. He has always been the proudest daddy in the world, even starting his father-of-the-bride wedding speech with, ‘When Poppy entered the world on Christmas Day 1991…’ She was born at 3am and was actually the sixth birth of the…

Since meeting on the set of GMTV 25 years ago, Jenni Falconer, 49, and Kate Garraway, 58, have shared everything from sunrise shifts to late-night parties, forging a bond built on laughter, loyalty – and plenty of mischief. Now they present back-to-back shows on Smooth Radio. Sitting down with woman&home ahead of their appearance at our coveted Christmas Live event on 22 November, the much-loved presenters unwrap their funniest work memories, discuss life’s biggest challenges and celebrate the joy of friendship at Christmas. In addition, they chat through their hopes for 2026. Prepare for laughter and confessions aplenty. Do you recall the moment you first met? Kate It was September 2000 and we’d just started at GMTV. We were on a big photo shoot on London’s South Bank and I…

Christmas always requires a huge spectrum of niche and complex skills that I, for one, do not possess. Cooking, wrapping, decorating, icing, making your own crackers… it’s all a big mystery to me. Even after decades of Christmases where nobody has actually died of food poisoning, I’m still at the primary school level of Festive Preparation, whereas others seem to have honorary degrees (looking at you, Nigella). Where do people find out about all this stuff? Does it seep in by osmosis or is it passed down by generations in tattered recipe books? Or is there a secret college course that can teach you how to wrap a mug without screaming? I wish there was, because every year I try my best, and every year I find myself lying on…

It was just before the London production of The Sound of Music in 1980, in which I was to star as Maria, that this photo was taken. We were in Megève, in the French Alps: my now recently departed husband, Claude, our daughter Kate, our son Patrick (Paddy) and me – with my short hair – standing in front of the chalet we owned. My eldest daughter, Barbara, is the only one missing. We lived in Geneva but escaped to the French Alps whenever possible. In Megève – a favourite destination for ski holidays – we built a lovely retreat. We went nearly every weekend. The Alps are beautiful in summer, but in winter they become something else entirely. At Christmas, it’s all log fires, deep snow and the jingle…

Looking stylish has never been so easy Steal the show ✢ Step into the spotlight in a sequinned maxi that shimmers from every angle. Dress, £349, sizes 6-22, Hobbs; shoes, £55.99, Zara; earrings, £87, anna-nina.nl; bracelet, £75, anni-lu.com; girl’s cape and hat, £115, and boy’s velvet chain, £31, both merimeri.co.uk; dress, £24, sizes 1-7yrs, and pink wrapping paper, £9 for 3 rolls, both Next; girl’s shoes, £17, and boy’s shoes, £18, both M&S; boy’s cardigan, £22.99, sizes 2-10yrs, H&M; trousers, £24, sizes 1-6yrs, andostores. com; foil striped wrapping paper, £4 for 4m, John Lewis; ribbon, stylist’s own Faux tree, £499, balsamhill.co.uk; lights, £52, lights4fun.co.uk; tree topper, £12, and red bow, £12, both John Lewis; baubles, £14 for 8, and striped bows, £14 for 6, both Next; green bow, £7,50, Oliver…

Christmas is the perfect excuse to go all out with your make-up – whether it’s a swipe of red lipstick or a sprinkling of shimmer. But this is also a season when we have little time to spare – in between mulling wine and wrapping presents, it’s likely most of us don’t have hours for a complicated make-up routine before that party. We need multitaskers and flattering, fail-safe looks. But have no fear – we’ve spoken to the experts and found the best products to ensure you look and feel fabulous in a flash. SKIN Prime time For make-up that lasts, ‘Avoid a long, layered skincare routine – save that for overnight,’ advises make-up artist Caroline Barnes. Pick the right primer to create the perfect canvas for foundation. FOR DEHYDRATION…

Think there’s no time and place for romantic fumblings at Christmas? Think again. Yes, you might be busy with prepping, shopping and making all things merry and bright, but giving yourself the gift of closeness with your partner could be just the present your body and mind needs right now. Easier said than done? Turn over to discover how to avoid the pitfalls of sex at Christmas, and make 2026 sizzling hot. You can’t stop arguing Family traditions, such as rowing over who’s not pulling their weight, what to watch on Netflix or a fallout over Monopoly, can be ripe during the festive season. And the person you take it out on is often your partner. SORT IT The solution to stop sulky silences is make-up sex. ‘It’s a great…

Warming up those vocal chords, ready for a round of Silent Night at midnight mass? Or does a rendition of Do They Know It’s Christmas? give you an unexpected lump in the throat? Singing is a wellbeing wonder – it’s free, and is thought to boost both our physical and mental health. But doing it en masse can also trigger feelings of sadness and loneliness for those who struggle at this time. Here’s what to expect when you have your seasonal singalong. 1 YOUR NERVOUS SYSTEM WILL BE CALMED Singing reduces cortisol levels, increases feel-good hormones – endorphins, dopamine and oxytocin – and calms your nervous system. ‘Deep breathing and gentle melodies help regulate your vagus nerve, shifting you out of “fight or flight” and into a state of rest,’…

As you’ve probably sussed out by now, I’m not one to mince words. The tummy area is a sensitive one for a lot of women – I know – but with myths and misinformation out there, I need to speak plainly, so brace yourselves. I’m going to repeat a phrase I’ve said quite a few times in this column. We cannot isolate particular parts of the body to become slimmer and leaner. Brutally speaking, we cannot choose where fat comes off. You might have your fingers in your ears right now because you don’t want to hear it, but it’s true. We can work the muscles of isolated areas to make them stronger, absolutely yes, but not so with fat loss. So, with reference to the tummy, you could knock…

Orange and pomegranate baked ham A striking buffet centrepiece, jewelled with cloves and orange slices. Serves 20-30 • Prep 15 mins • Cook 5 hrs 15 mins Whole bone-in gammon leg joint (5.7kg) 250ml pomegranate juice 6 oranges, thinly sliced 30-40 whole cloves For the glaze: 4tbsp pomegranate molasses 375ml pomegranate juice 2 star anise 2 bay leaves 1 cinnamon stick 2tsp mustard powder 300g brown sugar You will need: Cocktail sticks 1 Heat the oven to 140C Fan. Prep the gammon for cooking according to pack/butcher’s instructions (some require soaking). Weigh the gammon, then transfer to a large roasting tin with 250ml pomegranate juice. Tightly cover the pan with foil and roast for 20 mins per 450g. Use a digital probe thermometer to check the gammon is cooked through;…

If your baubles are sparking more dread than joy this year, it might be time for a refresh. It could be as simple as switching your tree topper in favour of this season’s must-have – the bow! Whatever your style, be it traditional or modern, glam or pared-back, our edit will help you find the best buys to boost your decor. Dark DRAMA Make the monochrome trend look magical with touches of gold and sparkle. Merry & BRIGHT Welcome party season with fun decorations, rainbow colours and lots of glitter. Vintage GOLD Go glam with a metallic scheme, adding copper, brass and brown tones for extra warmth. Festive FOLK Straight out of a fairy tale, this whimsical theme celebrates hand-crafted pieces in soft, natural shades. Nordic WOODLAND Escape to a…

HIDDEN BRAVERY Small Acts of Resistance by Anita Frank (£20, HB, HarperCollins, out 20 November) Village life turns perilous as German soldiers occupy northern France in World War One. When an English airman crashes, a local family hides him. Danger escalates when two German officers are billeted with them. Claudette and granddaughters Marie and Elodie face betrayal and collusion, while Marie becomes a focus of affection. Trust is fragile, survival uncertain. This saga is a heart-rending story of love, heroism and sacrifice. PRICE OF FREEDOM To Cage a Wild Bird by Brooke Fast (£18.99, HB, Transworld, out 27 November) Being billed as ‘The Hunger Games meets Prison Break’ couldn’t be more apt for this fast-paced debut novel, which will leave dystopian fans desperate for the next instalment in the series.…

Bestselling romance writer Cressida McLaughlin is known for her beloved Cornish Cream Tea series. She lives in Norwich, and draws inspiration from the beauty of north Norfolk’s wide-open spaces for her latest novel, The Secret Mistletoe Promise. In this second book of The Secret Bookshop series, runaway bride Imogen hides in her grandmother’s seaside cottage, only to be drawn out by local baker Dexter – and the past she can’t outrun. ‘It might seem easier to stay in a relationship than upset the apple cart’ I always want my characters to find their happy ever after. I love writing books that are escapist and take readers away from their troubles. I try not to make them too unrealistic, but I hope readers know they’re going to experience happy emotions, and…

Yes, we’ve known about Christmas all year but it still has that funny habit of creeping up on us, doesn’t it? And, as the days (and evenings) get busier in the run-up to the big day, woman&home is here to take the stress out of the festive period so you can enjoy it with family and friends. With 20 amazing recipes to save you time, this extra magazine has all you need to make your Christmas run smoothly, no matter what you are doing. From prep-ahead menus and impressive (but not tricky) desserts, to cheeseboard inspiration and delicious ways to use up your festive leftovers, sit back, relax and let us do the hard work for you.…

Layered prawn salad This salad is a real crowd-pleaser, and the trick for the host is that you can have it all prepared in the fridge without it spoiling. Serves 8-10 • Prep 15 mins • No cook 300g small pasta shells198g tin sweetcorn, drained1 romaine lettuce, shredded250g baby plum tomatoes, halved or quartered2tbsp chives, chopped1 cucumber, deseeded chopped2 x 120g packs crayfish or cold water prawns, defrosted if frozenHandful pea shoots or herbs, to garnish For the kimchi mayo: 50g kimchi160g mayonnaise1tsp srirarchaZest 1 lime 1 Cook the pasta according to pack instructions, then rinse and leave to cool. Meanwhile, whizz the kimchi for the mayo, then add the remaining ingredients and whizz again to combine. Stir in the crayfish/prawns, and season with salt and black pepper. 2 Put…

IF YOU MAKE ONE THING Thai-style turkey and noodle soup Can’t face another turkey sandwich? Spice it up with this easy, warming soup instead. Serves 4 • Prep 10 mins • Cook 10 mins 125g Thai rice noodles2tbsp Thai red curry paste2 x 400ml cans coconut milk200g cooked leftover turkey, broken into pieces1 bunch spring onions, sliced1 red pepper, deseeded and slicedFinely grated zest and juice of 1 limeDash of fish saucePinch of sugarFresh coriander, for garnish 1 Put the Thai rice noodles into a large bowl and pour over enough boiling water to cover. Leave for 4 mins or until the noodles have softened. 2 Meanwhile, put the Thai red curry paste into a pan, along with the coconut milk. Heat gently, stirring. 3 Add the turkey, spring onions,…