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CONTENTS Winter 2026

Leisure & Lifestyle 32 Editor’s Wishlist

34 The Reading List 38 Christmas Gift Guide: The Kitchen Guru 39 Christmas Gift Guide: The Style Obsessive

Beauty

6 An Update from Look Good Feel Better 9 Latest in Beauty 10 2026’s Most-Hyped Beauty Products 12 Cover Interview: Charlotte Crosby 19 Beauty Buzzwords 20 Party Season Hair with Jay Birmingham 22 Best Beauty Advent Calendars 24 Inside Her Beauty Bag: Taylor Swift

40 Christmas Gift Guide: The Beauty Icon 41 Christmas Gift Guide: The Nomad

Ultimate Travel 49 Restaurants Worth Travelling For 50 5 Things To Try in: Seoul

28 Style

51 Best Winter Coats

52 AW26 Fashion Trends 56 Your Guide To Trans-seasonal Dressing 58 The A-List Edit

26 Look Good Feel Better: Lucy’s Story

60 AW26 Fashion Shoot

28 AW26 Beauty Shoot

64 Your NYE Style Guide

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Welcome to the season of style.

49 Health & Fitness 66 Recipe: Venison Mafalda with Black Truffle 70 Winter Wellness with Gary Brecka 74 Micronutrient-Maxxing 76 From PCOS to PMOS: What’s Changed? 78 It’s Time To Talk Bowel Health 82 Four to Follow

In the Autumn/Winter 2026 issue of Blush, we’re embracing everything that makes the winter months so great – sequins, good food and plenty of dancing - with a bucket-load of inspiration for what to wear, where to go and how to feel your best. When it comes to fashion, we’re covering all the bases; from NYE outfits for every kind of celebration (page 64), to a stylist’s guide to transeasonal dressing, helping you navigate those not-quite-winter, not-quite-autumn days (page 56). We’re also looking at how to stay well through the colder months, with world-leading biohacker Gary Brecka sharing his top tips for keeping your energy up and feeling your best (page 70). And, because it wouldn’t be the festive season without an advent calendar, we’ve rounded up the best picks for 2026 (page 22), alongside the new beauty launches set to be on everyone’s radar (page 10). Of course, festive season plans are as much about where you’re going as what you’re wearing, so we’ve curated the ‘it’ list of restaurants and travel destinations worth making the journey for this winter - from special-occasion haunts to those ‘if you know, you know’ spots that deserve a place on your list (page 49). Plus, our cover star, Charlotte Crosby, opens up about marriage, baby loss and her hopes of expanding her family, in an honest and incredibly moving conversation about navigating very real challenges in the public eye (page 12). So, whether you’re planning a packed social calendar or looking forward to a quieter season ahead, consider this your winter companion; full to the brim with plenty to inspire, discover and, hopefully, enjoy along the way.

Sophie

COVER CREDITS Cover Star: Charlotte Crosby Photographer: Lucy and Lydia @the.twins.shot.this

Disclaimer: BLUSH Magazine is published bi-annually (twice per annum) by Seven Star Media Ltd. No part of BLUSH Magazine may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted to any form without permission. Views expressed in the magazine are not necessarily those of Seven Star Media Ltd, and are included to provide advice only. No content is a substitute for professional medical advice. During printing, images may be subject to a 15% variation. © Copyright of content belongs to individual contributors with the magazine copyright belonging to Seven Star Media Ltd. All rights reserved. Please either keep this magazine for future reference, pass it on for somebody else to read, or recycle it.

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Editor -

@sophthompson

CREDITS Executive Editor Lee Gatland Art Director Richard Hejsak Managing Editor Sophie Thompson sophie@sevenstarmedia.co.uk

SALES TEAM sales@sevenstarmedia.co.uk 01959 574 556 Printed By Micropress Printers Ltd Published By SEVEN STAR MEDIA LTD, 184 Main Road, Biggin Hill, Westerham, Kent Tel. 01959 543 650

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LOOK GOOD, FEEL BETTER When cancer changes everything, the UK’s leading support charity helps people recognise themselves again…

N estimated 3.5 million people are living with cancer in the UK - and that doesn’t include those around them who also share the emotional toll it can bring. But cancer isn’t just a physical illness; it can also rob patients of their confidence or unable to manage proper self-care the way they did previously, leaving them feeling isolated and less like themselves. Since 1994 Look Good Feel Better has been helping patients and their families, with their first ever workshop taking place at the Royal Free Hospital in North London, and going on to grow nationwide. Their aim? To help address the common physical side effects of cancer treatment, and be available for people to access anywhere, allowing their confidence and self-esteem to flourish once more. Since then, they’ve helped over 200,000 patients, and their vital work is only growing in scale.

Let’s go behind-thescenes of what the charity has been up to in recent months “This summer, we celebrated a huge milestone with our first-ever Feel Better Fest - a joyful, sunny day of connection, confidence, and community. It was a wonderful reminder of what’s possible when we bring our supporters, partners,

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and beneficiaries together in person. “People often assume charities like ours have endless resources and budgets - that we draft in swathes of people and spend without limits to make things happen. In reality, we’re a 21-person charity, with stretched budgets and a team giving everything they’ve got - and yet, time and again, the team still delivers amazing results. It’s a true testament to the people behind this organisation. Bring on Feel Better Fest 2027!

volunteers, and partners to Gildings Barns in Dorking, Surrey, for Feel Better Fest - their inaugural summer festival. A wholesome day of community and connection, the festival brought their mission to life outside of a workshop setting and gave the Look Good Feel Better community a joyful new way to come together. Joined by festival partners Shark Beauty, The Perfume Shop, Pink Ribbon Foundation, Momentum Dance Kent, Together We Breathe, and Coached by ELC, each brought their own energy to create a day-long schedule of wellness sessions for attending guests. Lisa Allen, Head of Corporate Partnerships, Events & PR at The Pink Ribbon Foundation shares: “The Pink Ribbon Foundation were delighted to attend the first ever Look Good Feel Better UK festival. Congratulations Look Good Feel Better we can’t wait to do it all again with you next year.” Feel Better Fest was such a success that the charity is already planning next year’s festival! Keep an eye out across their social channels and website for the event date, or contact the fundraising team at fundraising@lgfb.co.uk.

A new home in Scotland: The House of Hope, Edinburgh

“As we head into the final months of the year, that same spirit continues through the roll-out of new workshops, our growing partnership with John Lewis, and our annual Christmas Concert.” - Mark Flannery, CEO, Look Good Feel Better

Feel Better Fest 2026: our first-ever summer festival On 8th August 2026, Look Good Feel Better welcomed supporters, beneficiaries,

This July, Look Good Feel Better delivered their very first Skincare & Makeup workshop at The House of Hope Scotland, a brand-new community space in Edinburgh built specifically for people affected by breast cancer. The partnership began after founder, Lisa Fleming, attended a Look Good Feel Better workshop during her own treatment, and reached out to bring the programme into the House. The workshops are starting quarterly, with the aim to grow the offering here over time. “When I was diagnosed with breast cancer, one of the hardest things was feeling like I had lost my identity that feeling of no longer recognising yourself - physically or emotionally. I was fortunate to take part in a Look Good Feel Better workshop during my own

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It’s a special event in their fundraising calendar - a chance for their community of patients, volunteers, staff, and supporters to celebrate together. This year, they celebrate a Mayfair Christmas with an enchanting evening of music and celebration at The Grosvenor Chapel, Mayfair. This year’s concert takes place on Wednesday 9th December at The Grosvenor Chapel, 24 South Audley Street, Mayfair, London, W1K 2PA. Doors Open: 18:15, Concert Starts: 19:00. Book your tickets for this wonderful event via lookgoodfeelbetter. co.uk/events/

treatment, and for the first time in a long time, I caught a glimpse of ‘Lisa’ again. It was never just about skincare or makeup; it was about connection, confidence, and being in a room with other women who truly understood.” - Lisa Fleming, Founder, The House of Hope Scotland If you’re local to Edinburgh and interested in volunteering with Look Good Feel Better, contact Tess Picken, our Regional Manager for Scotland & the North East, at Tess@lgfb.co.uk.

OTHER WAYS TO GET INVOLVED WITH LOOK GOOD FEEL BETTER

New Services Added: Hand and Nail Care Workshops Look Good Feel Better is delighted to introduce a brand-new addition to its in-person offering - Hand and Nail Care Workshops designed to help people manage the visible effects of cancer treatment on their hands and nails, such as dryness, splitting, sensitivity, and ridges, while offering the same expert guidance and peer connection at the heart of everything the charity does.

Styling for Confidence with John Lewis & Partners Earlier this year, Look Good Feel Better announced their first-ever retail partnership with John Lewis & Partners, which saw the launch of ‘Styling for Confidence’ - a cancer support programme dedicated to

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delivering expert styling advice to people navigating body changes during and after cancer treatment. Attendees get to learn new skills, exchange techniques, and have the opportunity to chat with expert stylists and peers. The aim of these workshops is that you leave feeling empowered, motivated, and more confident about any changes to your appearance during your cancer journey.

Christmas Concert Nothing rings in the festive season quite like Look Good Feel Better’s annual Christmas Concert, where their community comes together once again to raise funds and spirits in equal measure.

Join a challenge event: Ready to challenge yourself this winter? Explore all 2026 events and sign up via the website.

Organise your own fundraiser: Host a bake sale, run a marathon, or create your own event with support from the Look Good Feel Better team.

Donate: Whether it’s a one-time gift or a monthly contribution, every donation makes a difference.

Spread the word: Follow @lgfbuk on social media.

Get in touch with the Look Good Feel Better team today via telephone: 01372 747 500 or visit lookgoodfeelbetter.co.uk for more details. Reach out to the fundraising team at fundraising@lgfb.co.uk for information on how you can support. Your support, no matter how big or small, helps Look Good Feel Better continue to expand its services and reach more people affected by cancer.

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Clean Volume Mascara, Merit, £24

Sephora Collection Special Effects Multichrome Foil, Sephora, £11.99

Tubing mascaras are having their heyday, and are perfect for creating an extension-like effect that doesn’t clump through your lashes, making it easy to swipe away at the end of the day. The latest addition to that lineup is one of Gen Z’s favourite brands of 2026, Merit, whose buildable formula promises no smudging for 16 hours and a 51% increase in lash length. Merit has built quite the reputation for creating easygoing, yet effective (and more importantly, Insta-worthy) beauty buys so we’re excited about this one.

Multichrome makeup is having a serious moment, thanks to its light-catching, colourshifting effect, taking eye looks from festival season, to party mode. Sephora’s latest multidimensional shadow has already cemented itself as a sell-out staple, designed to transform as you move, shifting between mesmerising hues for a highimpact finish. An essential for every Christmas party look.

y t u a e b n i t s e Lat ty buys that rt* u a e b w e n t s a The hotte g *add to c n i k c i l c s u have Blush Color Infusion Duo, Laura Mercier, £34

Burberry Goddess Amber Vanilla 30ml, Burberry, £78 Gourmand season is upon us, and Burberry’s rebirth of its iconic Goddess fragrance is rewriting everything we thought we loved about vanilla. Paired with notes of lavender, amber, and maple syrup, this new, intense approach to a muchloved fail-safe scent is sweet, sophisticated, and oh-so-warm. It’s arrived right on cue for our Christmas wish lists…

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We’re forever on the hunt for a blush that can do it all: Adding a flush of colour to our cheeks while leaving behind a pearly, glowy hue - but not too glowy that we look shiny. The good news is we may have just found it in Laura Mercier’s new creamy, talc-free powder blushes, formulated to sculpt, illuminate and brighten skin with dimension. Hello, lit-from-within glow.

The Great Iron, Hershesons, £120 Classic straighteners are getting a rethink, with the latest generation of hair tools designed to do far more than simply flatten your hair. Enter Hershesons’ The Great Iron, the latest iteration from the iconic London salon, built to glide through strands in fewer passes, leaving hair sleek, glossy, and noticeably smoother.

Retinal Renewal Night Serum, The Organic Pharmacy, £65 Retinol is one of the ‘it’ buzzwords in beauty right now, and The Organic Pharmacy’s new Retinal (yes, Retinal) serum claims to work 11x faster than the retinol we know and love. Formed of 95% natural ingredients, it’s dermatologist-tested, helping to diminish pigmentation and reinforce your skin barrier while you sleep. It’s suitable for sensitive skin too, so we can all bask in the feeling of waking up with firmer, smoother skin.

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IN CONVERSATION WITH

Charlotte On marriage, life beyond our screens, and the silent miscarriage that shaped her family

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Credit: Charlotte Crosby

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Charlotte, it feels like a fullcircle moment witnessing your renaissance. We spent years watching you grow up on MTV’s Geordie Shore, and now we’re getting an all-access look at your life as a mum and fiancée. What’s it like taking fans of the show into this new chapter?

Your content is obviously a lot more family-focused now, and the audience who have followed you from the start are still very much here - rooting for youself - because you still show an authentic, imperfect version of you. Why is it important for you to show that not everything has to be so curated online?

Charlotte: “We’ve all grown up together! Everyone who watched me going out and living my best life back then was doing the same, and that’s why they loved it - and now we’re all having babies. We are literally on the same life path. I feel so connected to the people who’ve watched Geordie Shore, and I feel so lucky.”

Charlotte: “Who I was on Geordie Shore was this really loud, really out-there, very messy person - I always made people laugh. Let’s take away the fact that Geordie Shore existed and I’m still very much the person I was in there. None of that has changed - I’ve just got children now. “You see on Instagram that I’m messy, I’ve got no makeup on, I don’t have my hair done; I’m the same as I was on Geordie Shore, but I’m just in a different phase of my life. “I don’t show ‘perfect’ things because my life isn’t f****** perfect. I am the most normal person in the world. I don’t go to many events, I’m not always in London filming or doing things like this. I’m usually either in pyjamas eating Chinese, or in a messy bun at soft play. My life isn’t like a curated content creator - I am the realest mum on Instagram.”

Do you still recognise that version of yourself who was out partying every night and causing chaos?

“EVERYONE WHO WATCHED ME GOING OUT & LIVING BEST LIFE WAS LIVE WAS DOING THE SAME, AND THAT’S WHY THEY LOVED IT”

Charlotte: “I always think I’m still as fun as that, but obviously I’m not. Back then, the Charlotte who was on Geordie Shore in her early twenties would be going to Ibiza every year, or if there was a festival going on, I’d be there. If someone invited me to a festival now, it would be a point-blank no! “It’s just a part of growing up - but I feel like it would be a little bit scary to still want to do all of the things I did when I was 20 when I’m nearly 40 because where is the progression? If I was still wanting to behave like that, I’d be really f****** worried about myself.” “I think the hangovers are worse when you get older - regardless of children, there is this law of the universe that means you cannot hack a hangover.”

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You’ve got your two girls, Alba, 3, and Pixi, 1 - who we get to see a lot of online. How do you think becoming a mum has changed your relationship with yourself after being under the microscope of the public for so long? Charlotte: “This is a really, really big one, and I get emotional when I go to say it - I feel like I could cry now because it’s the biggest thing that I ever realised. “I would look at Alba when she was first born, and I would think, ‘oh my god, she is the most beautiful girl I’ve ever laid eyes upon’ - I just look at her, and I think ‘you are so beautiful, like what the f***? How have I created you?’

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“Now every single day someone says ‘you look exactly alike’ - and that’s when it dawned on me that I think she’s the most beautiful little girl in the world - but I don’t think that of myself, even though everyone thinks we look like each other. “I remember thinking to myself one day, ‘Am I really as beautiful as Alba?’ - for so many years, especially when you’re on reality TV, you get pulled apart all of the time. It was healing to actually start to think that I was beautiful like her too.”

Credit: Charlotte Crosby

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Your girls will likely inherit some of your spotlight as they’re growing up. What do you hope is different for them versus your own experience? Charlotte: “I hope that I can try and give them a childhood that was as much like mine as possible. I grew up in the era where there weren’t any mobile phones and kids didn’t have social media. “I’d like to try and just keep them as sheltered from that side of things for as long as possible - I hope they’ll be none the wiser until they’re around 14. “I just hope they’re not going to be putting pressure on themselves and worrying about likes or comments or how many followers they’ve got - or even thinking about the spotlight until a much later age.”

Do you see yourself in them? Charlotte: “I see bits of myself in both the girls. Alba’s incredibly shy, and I was so shy growing up; I literally wouldn’t say boo to a ghost! I was so scared of making friends.

“I DON’T SHOW ‘PERFECT’ THINGS BECAUSE MY LIFE ISN’T F****** PERFECT. I AM THE MOST NORMAL PERSON IN THE WORLD” 14

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I would go on holiday, and I would never make a friend. If I went round the pool with my mum and dad, and there was a group of kids there, I’d have anxiety thinking they would make me play with them. “On the other hand Pixi is loud and crazy and so funny - and that reminds me of myself too.”

Credit: Charlotte Crosby

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Let’s talk about your love life. You’ve been with your fiancé, Jake, for five years now - but that doesn’t mean we haven’t witnessed some serious turbulence in your relationships until now. What makes this relationship work so well in comparison?

: @thec ha Instag ram by

What has he taught you about love?

rlot tecr os

Charlotte: “I think because we met each other when we were in our 30s - people in their 30s, I feel like they’re ready to get serious. “Jake’s always been very mature. We’ve said that if we met in our 20s then we’d still be together - we’d probably have eight children! “It’s all about timing, and it’s all about meeting that really rare person who is the full package.”

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: @thec ha

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Charlotte: “So much. In every past relationship I have been categorically cheated on - always. I was always so paranoid of that person even going on a night out because, to me, a night out meant that I was going to get a message from a random girl the next day. “I was so paranoid, and I’d become accustomed to just thinking ‘well, this is just relationships, this is just what happens.’ “When I met Jake, it wasn’t like that. He never had to do anything to prove it, I just had a feeling from the minute we got together that I was so secure and had nothing to worry about. He made me feel like I was the only person in the entire world. “Once I’d experienced that type of love and

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knew it existed, I was like ‘f***! I need to save every one of my friends from their awful relationships. “I’d have massive rows with one of them because I’d turned into that person who was like, ‘you don’t understand what love is like, don’t settle for this!’ - Anyway, she finally left that arsehole and she’s got a new man. Now she always says ‘I can’t believe this exists’ and I reply, ‘I f****** told you’.”

Talk to us about your wedding plans. Will we see a Geordie Shore reunion? Charlotte: “We want an abroad wedding over three days. We’d have a big meal for family and friends before the wedding, and we’d love to go to a location with a really cool beach club so we can have a final celebration there too. “From Geordie Shore, there’ll obviously be Sophie [Kasaei], obviously Holly [Hagan-Blyth].

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I’m very close with James Tindale, and I’m actually really close with Kyle [Christie] as well - it’ll be a mini reunion, I don’t speak to anyone else. “I would love Sophie and Holly to do a speech because we’ve been through so much together. We’ve got like 15 years of the craziest memories and stories - their speech would literally be epic. “Me and Sophie cried like babies at Holly’s wedding - It was actually a f****** joke. We were a mess. We cried every inch of our makeup off, we were holding onto each other’s hands, and we were inconsolable nearly on the floor. God knows what they’re going to be like for mine.”

Credit: Lucy and Lydia @the.twins.shot.this

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You’ve recently opened up about having a silent miscarriage - which is where your body doesn’t process that you’ve lost a baby. How has going through something so tough, yet bonding shaped your relationship? Charlotte: “Because I’d gone through an ectopic pregnancy before, I’d already felt that kind of loss. At that point I had nothing. I woke up from an operation with one less fallopian tube, one less ovary, and had no children - I didn’t even have a proper relationship because that was a shambles - it was a really lonely, awful, horrendous time of my life. “I’m not taking anything away from the loss that it was, but this time I’m going through it with the most supportive and loving partner - it was both of our loss. Having that support and love just made it feel so much easier. “Plus, I’ve got two beautiful girls so I couldn’t feel heartbroken because I am so incredibly lucky.

“I HOLD THE GIRLS EVEN HARDER EVERY TIME ANOTHER MONTH COMES AROUND AND IT’S ANOTHER NEGATIVE PREGNANCY TEST - I’VE NEVER HAD THIS FEELING BEFORE”

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“What’s been hard about the whole situation is that it prompted inside of my head that I definitely wanted a third child because I’d had it and I thought it was happening and then it wasn’t successful. “I’ve never tried for a baby until now - I got pregnant two months after knowing Jake, but now I’m longing for it. I hold the girls even harder every time another month comes around and it’s another negative pregnancy test - I’ve never had this feeling before. “Everything just happened and now it’s not happening, and I wonder if it’s because I’m putting so much pressure on it. Do I just need to relax? I’ve always said I didn’t want to have any babies past 37, and I know if I got pregnant now it would be my perfect timeline. I think I’m just driving myself insane.”

One of the most uplifting parts of such a sad story is seeing how many people you’ve helped. You had comments from other women who have had similar experiences, baby loss charities thanking you for highlighting silent miscarriage - Do you think you’ve been able to take anything positive from something so tragic? Charlotte: “Definitely - but I think it’s because I’m in a really lucky position. If this had happened to someone with no children, I wouldn’t think bad of them for not being able to take anything positive from it. “Sometimes s*** things happen, and they’re just f****** s***, and there’s no positivity about them at all. “I shared my silent miscarriage story because I’d never heard about it, and never knew it was a thing. I’d heard of a miscarriage - but never a silent one. I really struggled because I didn’t know what was happening to my body, and I held onto a lot of hope. “You’re told that it looks like there’s nothing going on in there and

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that the pregnancy hasn’t progressed, but you’re also told that they need to check again in two weeks. I just wish I had someone to turn to - was I being stupid for holding out hope? “I thought if I shared the story, someone who’s gone through it might relate. I message so many people back, and if I could have helped someone or been someone to talk to, that would’ve just made me feel better.”

“WHEN YOU’RE IN REALITY TV YOU GET PULLED APART ALL THE TIME IT’S HEALING TO HAVE THIS LITTLE PERSON WHO LOOKS LIKE YOU IN SO MANY WAYS AND THINKING THEY’RE THE MOST BEAUTIFUL THING YOU’VE EVER LAID EYES ON” One of the reasons it touched so many people was because we’re so used to seeing a super bubbly version of you and it was a moment that was really vulnerable. What are some of the biggest misconceptions people have about you? Charlotte: “The only misconception people have is that I’ve got a glamorous life - believe me I f****** wish I did, but I don’t. People get shocked when they see me in the supermarket. Why would I not be in the supermarket?”

Let’s be real - you’ve done a lot. We’ve seen you on our screens for years, last year you released your debut fiction novel, Lucky Break, and now you’re

embarking on your journey as a mum. When your kids grow up, what do you hope they learn from everything you’ve done so far? Charlotte: “I’m so far removed from thinking about Geordie Shore - I don’t even want to think about if the girls might watch it one day. It makes me so scared. “I was sat on the sofa the other day and Alba heard me open Instagram when a Geordie Shore clip popped up, and it was so obviously my voice talking to Holly! I was dressed up in 80s gear, all of my hair was crimped. “All of a sudden Alba went, ‘Mum, mum, it’s you!’ and the phone almost jumped out of my hand. “Maybe I wouldn’t be as scared if she was a lot older and we had that relationship where I can share that I’ve been there, done that, got the t-shirt. I’m going to be so open with her - I’m going to say ‘I got drunk, I did all of this - and if you don’t believe me, I’ll show you’. “I hope that one day we can have a relationship where she always feels like I am a safe space, and she can confide in me in anything, anything in the slightest. Even if she thinks it’s rude, even if she thinks she’s done wrong, I don’t want her to ever feel scared. “I might actually be the one parent whose daughters feel like they can go up and tell them when they’re in a difficult position, and I’ll know before anyone else, and I’ll be able to step in and help before it goes too far. I might be that mum because of Geordie Shore.”

Is there any advice you’d give 21-year-old Charlotte on Geordie Shore now? Charlotte: I wouldn’t give her any advice because you couldn’t give 21-year-old Charlotte advice - she wouldn’t take it. She would laugh in your face and walk right out of the door. I would just give her a big hug and say, ‘just carry on being yourself’.

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BEAUTY BUZZWORDS:

EXOSOMES

Welcome to the year of healthy skin regeneration

N 2025 it was light therapy, in 2026 it was polynucleotides, and in 2027, you can expect to see the word ‘Exosomes’ popping up a whole lot more. They’re the skincare buzzword of the moment, appearing in serum launches from major beauty brands, with bold claims of boosting barrier repair and skin regeneration, while also rapidly gaining traction as an in-clinic treatment.

So, what are exosomes? “Put simply, they’re tiny messenger particles released by cells that help different cells communicate with each other”, says Dr Ahmed El Muntasar, GP and owner of The Aesthetics Doctor. He notes that there’s often confusion around whether they’re stem cells, or replacements for damaged cells - of which they’re neither. Instead, they’re often referred to as “text messages” between your existing

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cell to help them function at their peak. “They carry proteins, lipids and other signalling molecules that can encourage healing, reduce inflammation, and support tissue repair”, he adds. Dr Ahmed believes the newlypiqued interest in exosomes has come from patients’ desire to focus on skin quality long-term, rather than just the instantaneous aesthetic treatments we know and love. Longevity is officially in - even in the beauty space. “They can help improve skin texture, fine lines, hydration, and support recovery after treatments such as lasers or microneedling - There’s also growing interest in their role within hair restoration”, he notes of their benefits. “They’re not a magic fix, and they’re certainly not something everyone needs, but for the right patient they can be a really useful addition to a regenerative treatment plan. “The patients I tend to consider for them are those looking to improve overall skin quality rather than chasing dramatic changes.”

Exosomes can be sourced in a variety of ways, but given that the UK and EU currently have a ban on human-derived exosomes (to prevent disease transmission and crosscontamination), you can expect to see plenty of plant-derived alternatives which still pack a punch. While a clinical treatment might offer a more intense result, at-home additions to your skincare routine are a great way to dip your toe in the water although Dr Ahmed advises exercising caution about their bold claims, as the fresh demand may have outrun the speed of research in some cases.

“REGENERATIVE MEDICINE IS WHERE AESTHETICS IS HEADING PATIENTS ARE BECOMING MUCH MORE INTERESTED IN HEALTHIER SKIN” “Regenerative medicine is where aesthetics is heading. Patients are becoming much more interested in healthier skin rather than looking obviously-treated - and exosomes fit into that philosophy”, Dr Ahmed concludes. “What I do think will change is the quality of the products available. As the research grows and regulation becomes stronger, I suspect we’ll see fewer products making exaggerated claims and more genuinely evidencebased options. “The excitement is definitely justified, but it’s important not to get carried away. Good science should always come before good marketing.”

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The Mane Event

Celebrity hairstylist, Jay Birmingham, shows us how to recreate this season’s most enviable party hair

ARTY season is upon us, and your hair is undoubtedly gearing up to work overtime being straightened, waved, curled and pinned in every direction possible as you reinvent yourself for a bustling social calendar. But, knowing where to start can be the hard part. Having been the mastermind behind looks on Khloe Kardashian, Eva Longoria and Rochelle Humes to name a few, there’s no one better qualified to give us the lowdown on the biggest looks to copy this winter than Celebrity Stylist and Owner of Jay B Haircare, Jay Birmingham.

What’s the biggest request you get over party season? “One of my most requested looks over party season has to be the ‘Pammy’ up-do! Blending seduction and glamour, I love this style for its messy, yet polished finish – it’s the perfect choice for Christmas nights out and parties!

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“It must be the big bouncy blowdry – it’s the height of sophistication. Oozing with body and definition, this style has the ability to command attention in any room. I love it for its intense volume, texture and a radiant, high-shine glossy finish.”

“IN 2027, I THINK WE’LL START TO SEE PEOPLE SWAPPING OUT THE ‘CLEAN GIRL’ LOOK FOR A MORE RELAXED, NATURAL APPROACH TO STYLING” “My secret weapon to achieving the perfect bouncy blow-dry is the Jay B Haircare Split Seal Serum – apply a small amount through the mid lengths before styling for a smooth, glossy finish. “When styling, start with teasing the crown to achieve that effortlessly voluminous look and use a large barrel round brush to blow-dry the hair, clipping the section once finished. Finish by lightly spritzing the hair with hairspray, then release the curls and style as desired.”

The secret to making your party hair last all night long… “Prep is everything. Cold weather can wreak havoc on your hair, so I would

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PARTY SEASON HAIR TRENDS TO HAVE ON YOUR RADAR…

LOOK 1: THE BOUNCY BLOW DRY “When reflecting on the top styles of 2026, one look has undeniably taken centre stage – the effortlessly glamorous bouncy blow-dry. “Spotted everywhere from Fashion Weeks to red carpets, this look is all about intense volume, texture and a radiant, high-shine glossy finish. “If you’re re-creating a bouncy blow-dry at home, be sure to focus on volume at the roots when you’re blow-drying, or throw in some heated rollers for some sensuous waves. Whether you go long and loose or ultra-wavy, be sure to finish the look with a spritz of your favourite, stronghold hairspray.”

LOOK 2: GLASS HAIR “A look which I think we’ll see a lot of this party season is sleek, straight, shiny hair which radiates sophistication – meaning there is absolutely no room for any flyaways! “This party season, we’ll see clients embracing sharp angles, clean lines, and various lengths, creating a chic contrast and an effortlessly cool, yet sophisticated look. You don’t need the most extravagant hairstyle to make a statement!”

Credit: @jayb.hair

One party season trend that will never go out of style?

recommend investing in a nourishing shampoo and conditioner. “I noticed a gap in the market when it came to hydrating products, so I created Jay B Haircare Hydrating Shampoo and Conditioner Duo, which is formulated with Argan Oil, Macadamia Oil and Avocado Oil. “My other top tip is investing in a strong-hold hairspray to ensure that your style stays in place all night long – flyaways and dancing are not a good combination!”

Credit: @jayb.hair

“In 2027, I think we’ll start to see people swapping out the ‘clean girl’ look for a more relaxed, natural approach to styling with optimum hair health in mind. I can see the effortlessly, un-done ‘Pammy’ up-do evolving to be even more dramatic, with more face-framing pieces to amplify the volume and movement of this look!”

Credit: @jayb.hair

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LOOK 3: BOLD ACCESSORIES “Embracing hair accessories to the fullest is on the menu this party season! Think beads, rings, charms, bows, ribbons, and glitter to create bold looks that stand out in any room. It’s all about adding that extra flair and a personal element to your hairstyle. “My personal favourite is weaving delicate strands of tinsel into loose, tousled waves or sleek, sculpted ponytails. The contrast between soft texture and shiny strands creates a gorgeous, subtle shimmer.”

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LookFantastic, £120

Worth: £665

One of the more affordable options, LookFantastic’s advent calendar sells out for good reason; with trinkets and treats spanning makeup, skincare, haircare, and wellness. We’re predicting there’ll be some MAC, Color Wow, and Elemis behind those doors.

Sephora, £235

Worth: £1,000

Sephora has already given us an exclusive look at exactly what we can expect to find behind the 40 doors of its holographic box and the brand selection is pretty major. Think Makeup By Mario, One/Size, MAC, Phlur, Kayali, and Kosas.

THE BIG BEAUT John Lewis, £150

‘Tis the season fo r

finding your nex and these adven t calend

Worth: £1,160

With 41 products - 23 of them full-sized - we may have just found a contender for best value for money.

Harrods, £270

Worth: £1,780

The Harrods Beauty Advent Calendar sells out before we’ve even made it to the festive season - and this year they’ve boosted its value even further with 21 full-sized products out of 34. Luxury lovers, meet your perfect match.

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Liberty London, £285

Worth: £1,300

Liberty’s ever-oppulent advent calendar (displayed as their iconic London storefront, no less) always serves up a mixture of our favourite heritage beauty brands with instant modern classics. This year you’ll find Jones Road, Trinny London, Verden, Sunday Riley and Augustinus Bader among them. Worth it for the box alone? Perhaps.

SpaceNK, £275

Worth: £1,200

SpaceNK’s advent offering consistently ranks among the greats - and this year is set to be no different. Housed in yet another box you’ll keep through 2027, expect to see some of their biggest-selling brands from Charlotte Tilbury and REFY, to Sol de Janeiro and K18. Set your alarms before it sells out.

TY COUNTDOWN

xt favourite beau ty

must-have -

dars will help yo u out

Jo Malone, £375

Worth: £597

While it may not have the biggest return on investment, this fragrance wonderland is perfect for finding your new signature scent in the form of colognes, body lotions, and candles. Who knows, maybe there’ll even be a 30ml surprise waiting for you behind one of the doors?

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INSIDE HER BEAUTY BAG…

TAYLOR SWIFT It takes an army to bring a 14-time Grammy winner’s look to life - and we’ve got all of the details

DELICATE VOLUMIZING CONDITIONER WITH ROSE EXTRACTS, CHRISTOPHE In Taylor’s Eras Tour Delicate Volumizing ROBIN Conditioner with documentary, it didn’t SUPER ANTI-AGING CLEANSING CREAM, DR BARBARA STURM

Super Anti-Aging Cleansing Cream, Dr Barbara Sturm, £95

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Rose Extracts, take long for eagleChristophe eyed fans to spot her Robin, £32 post-show bathroom shelf lineup, which included Dr Barbara Sturm’s cult-favourite cleansing cream. The powerful formula, containing the likes of panthenol, ceramides and shea butter is inspired by the leading doctor’s award-winning skin solutions from her Düsseldorf clinic. If it’s good enough to take off stadiumworthy makeup that’s lasted a 3.5-hour Eras show…it’s definitely good enough for us.

Another background cameo in the Eras documentary was from Christophe Robin’s Delicate (get it, Swifties?) shampoo and conditioners. Formulated with 97% natural-origin ingredients, it works to “enhance volume while maintaining hair’s natural lightness” and “nourishes and conditions fine, flat, or thin hair, leaving it feeling soft, manageable, and lifted.”

St Barts Body Cleanser, OUAI, £26

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THE ORIGINAL LIPSTICK IN ‘MOROCCO’, NARS

Now, we typically associate the Grammy recordThe Original holder with a punchy, Lipstick red lip; but as of late, in ‘Morocco’, she’s been spotted NARS, £26 stepping out off-duty in a warm, cinnamon hue - seemingly the same one used in both the ‘Fate of Ophelia’ music video and her engagement photos to Travis Kelce. We now know that very shade is ‘Morocco’ from NARS, which has been in and out of stock ever since the detail slipped from her makeup artist, Lorrie Tuck - who says the singer has been a fan “for years”. With winter around the corner, we expect to see this popping up a lot more.

GOE OIL, JAO BRAND. We love an A-list beauty hack, and way back in 2014, a photo began circulating on Tumblr of a gift Taylor had sent a fan - in the form of Jao Brand’s Goē body oil. Goē Oil, “Jackie, this is one of Jao Brand, those little Hollywood $54 tricks - This stuff on legs = red carpet ready”, she wrote on the tag attached. Glazed pins pending…

PERMA PRECISION LIQUID EYELINER, PAT MCGRATH LABS It’s no secret that Taylor has a long-standing relationship with legendary makeup artist Pat McGrath, and her worldrenowned products often pop up as those named among her favourites. This particular five-star-rated eyeliner pen boasts 12-hour wear, a velvet-matte finish, and a uniquely flexible precision

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tip that provides exceptional control for smooth, even lines. No wonder it’s constantly got a waiting list. It’s thought that the Perma Precision eyeliner was specifically used on the Eras Tour, giving the hitmaker the perfect winged look every time - no matter the weather.

LIQUILUST LEGENDARY WEAR MATTE LIPSTICK IN ELSON 4, PAT MCGRATH LABS Could we talk all things Taylor without referencing her iconic red lip? This bold pop of colour has been seen everywhere from awards shows to NFL games and sell-out stadium tours. Her weapon of choice? Pat McGrath’s Elson 4 lipstick. After a long run of Swifties selling it out, the legendary smudgeproof formula is now back in a variety of iterations (from liquid lips to bullets), just in time for party season. Run…quickly.

Perma Precision Liquid Eyeliner, Pat McGrath Labs, £30

Mothership x Moonlit Seduction Palette, Pat McGrath Labs, £118

LiquiLUST Legendary Wear Matte Lipstick in Elson 4, Pat McGrath Labs, £32

Santal Blush EDP, Tom Ford, £152

Charlotte’s Magic Cream, Charlotte Tilbury, £54

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FACING CANCER, TOGETHER Caitlin & Lucy met through Look Good Feel Better just 12 months ago, and were both 23 years old when they were first diagnosed with cancer. One year later, we ask how their friendship has shaped their experience of cancer and recovery…

Could you share what it’s really like to receive a cancer diagnosis in your twenties? Caitlin: Like at any age , it’s completely earth-shattering. We were both 23 - when your life is just starting to get going - when you’re meant to be becoming an adult. You’re watching everyone else around you get on with their lives, whilst your own life is on pause. Lucy: It’s all of the things you wouldn’t expect, the little life achievements people are having at our age. They just don’t matter, as all you’re thinking about is your next appointment or scan results.

How has your friendship shaped your experience with cancer and recovery? Lucy: It’s just so nice to have someone who’s the same age and knows exactly how you feel. We’ve had different cancers, so had different experiences treatment-wise, but we have so much in common… more than I have with anyone else that I know, and we only met just

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I then went to the workshop. I felt 13 again - it changed my life - I felt like me for the first time since I was diagnosed. It was the most transformative thing that could have happened, and I wouldn’t be the person that I am now if it wasn’t for the workshop I attended.

“IT’S JUST SO NICE TO HAVE SOMEONE WHO’S THE SAME AGE AND KNOWS EXACTLY HOW YOU FEEL”

over a year ago. Caitlin: There are certain things that come as a result of cancer, like the early menopause or when your hair starts to grow back, in a time when your appearance means quite a lot to you. There’s just so much that literally nobody else our age can relate to unless you’ve been through it yourself. Lucy: If something happens or if something new comes up, I know that I have someone I can talk to who will understand what’s going on, and that’s just the best thing ever.

What were the best tools from the LGFB workshop that helped you navigate the day-to-day? Lucy: I’ve always been such a makeup girl, but when I was diagnosed and lost my hair, I lost my identity, and I didn’t care what I looked like anymore. I stopped looking after myself.

Caitlin: I was never a makeup-wearer and was really nervous to attend the workshop, as I felt like there would be this expectation of me to know what I’m doing. But, actually, it gave me the tools for the days that I felt a bit rubbish or when I did want to go out and not look so ill! The power of a few simple makeup techniques made such a difference to my confidence. I now know that on the days when I want to spruce myself up a bit, this is an easy way to boost my confidence.

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suddenly, you’re sitting next to them and have something to talk about. It’s so much easier to build a connection with others than at any other time during treatment, or in hospital as an outpatient receiving chemo. I wish I’d done it sooner! Caitlin: The workshops provide an opportunity to learn and ask questions about things that are happening to you, but aren’t specifically medical-related; all of the questions you can’t really ask your doctor. Not having eyelashes is a different kind of bald! The LGFB workshop is a really safe environment to be able to ask those questions.

Caitlin, could you share how your second diagnosis has been? Caitlin: Hearing my cancer had come back was just the worst news ever, but the treatment was less intense, and I kind of knew what to expect. The emotional side was a lot harder, as I was getting back to my ‘new normal’. I had some hair, and now it’s gone again! I went to a LGFB workshop a second time around and went in with so much more confidence - it was nice to know the support was there from the off. My first thought was: “When shall I book onto a LGFB workshop?” It gave me something to look forward to, rather than finding out when there’s already a whole barrage of information being thrown at you.

What would you want other young people facing a cancer diagnosis to know? Lucy: Talking to others going through something similar is really important. I was not up for that at the beginning, but it’s not as scary as you think... It just makes a world of difference being able to connect when you feel so alone - it’s nice to know that actually, you’re not.

How did you get yourself over that hump to get to the workshop? Lucy: My nurse said it was really worth going along, and it was a specific session for young people. When you’re going through cancer as a younger person, you don’t necessarily relate to perhaps older individuals who are going through it. It’s a very different experience, so knowing it was going to be a session for younger people definitely felt less intimidating. My nurse also said, “the goodie bags are amazing!” - Sold. I noticed how many younger girls were in my workshop - their parents were with them, and they were very nervous. To see them come out of their shells was such a nice thing to witness. I spoke to people that I had seen in the hospital and never said a word to, and

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“THE POWER OF A FEW SIMPLE MAKEUP TECHNIQUES MADE SUCH A DIFFERENCE TO MY CONFIDENCE”

For Caitlin and Lucy, a Look Good Feel Better workshop became the beginning of a new friendship neither expected, and that sense of connection sits at the heart of what the charity aims to offer. Whether it leads to a friendship like Caitlin and Lucy’s, a reassuring conversation across the table, or simply the feeling that you’re not facing it all alone, community is a powerful part of feeling better. Visit lookgoodfeelbetter.co.uk for more information on services & support

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N R E D O M MATTE T

HIS isn’t matte as we know it - drying finishes are replaced by blurred, breathable skin that feels ultraelevated without appearing cakey. Consider smart polymers and skin-loving formulas that melt your makeup together in all the right places.

k oo l e h t e t a e r c Re Powder Kiss Matte Lipstick in ‘Off The Market’, M.A.C, £20 Ombre Essentielle Eyeshadow in ‘LILAS POUDRÉ’, Chanel Beauty, £27

AW26

Beauty 28

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Photographer: Karolina Biloshenko

Soft Pinch Luminous Blush in ‘Joy’, Rare Beauty, £26

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Photographer: @Moncho_Shot

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HIGH- AST CONTR HEROES N

O-makeup-makeup season is over, and the anti-clean girl movement has begun; It’s time to celebrate our most striking features in all their multi-dimensional glory. We’re welcoming back highdefinition contour and structured looks just in time for party season.

look e h t e t a e r c e R Softline Lip Liner in ‘Espresso’, Summer Fridays, £21 No.1 Pencil Eyeliner in ‘Canvas’, Glossier, £20 North 3D Lash, Sweed, £19

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Photographer: Tatan Zuleta

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G N I T T E G C I H P A R G R

ECENT seasons have championed exaggerated, kissable pouts. Now, we’re paring things back and turning our attention to lids that double up as works of art, showing our personalities are truly one of one. A steady hand and maximum creativity are actively encouraged.

look Recreate t he LoveNude Lip Blusher in #44, YSL Beauty, £38 Inky Stix Eyeliner in ‘Silver Shock’, NYX, £8.99 True Match Nude Plumping Tinted Serum, L’Oreal Paris, £14.99

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Photographer: Ailín Policano

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GONE E H T H T I W WIND W

HERE Spring/Summer was about pulling off the ultimate slick-back, the colder months are dedicated to embracing Mother Nature’s tousled glory - and making her look effortless. Flyaways and slow, breezy mornings welcomed.

look e h t e t a e r c e R Full Dry Volume & Texture Spray, Living Proof, £31 Liquid Lurex Eyeshadow in ‘Aria’, Lisa Eldridge, £21 Big Lip Plumpgasm in ‘Nudegasm Diamonds’, Charlotte Tilbury, £28

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Mother of Pearl Oyster Champagne Bucket, Edelweiss, £130 “This has been quietly on my homeware moodboard for two years now but is regularly out of stock with party season on the approach, perhaps it’s finally time I go all-out with hosting”

Le Pliage XL Travel Bag, Longchamp, £160 “Genuinely stylish travel bags are hard to come by, but after seeing this one pop up on Odd Muse founder Aimee Smale’s TikTok, I’ve been eyeingit-up ever since. I’m usually a neutrals person, but this citrus injection will no doubt make winter a little more bearable”

Diamond Initial Tag Pendant, Otiumberg, £295 “I’m a sucker for anything personalised, and I think these diamond necklace tags are such a special, yet chic keepsake to capture your favourite people in life for years to come”

Every product our Editorin-Chief is lusting after right now

Large Tote, Chanel, £8,520 “One of Matthieu Blazy’s most defining Chanel moments yet, this grained calfskin tote has been on the arm of every celebrity this year, and is the perfect ‘off-duty’ alternative to the coveted Hermès Birkin - although this one might stay on the wishlist for a while…”

“A solid night’s sleep has been dubbed one of the ‘ultimate luxuries’ of 2026, and this has undoubtedly been the top of every wellness lover’s list. A device that can regulate your bed’s temperature based on your biometrics as you sleep? Yes, please”

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“I’m trying to move away from being an all-white interiors girl, and I’m loving the midcentury modern pairing of marble and wood in furniture at the moment…this bedside table feels super cosy and luxe - exactly the hotel-type vibe I’m going for”

Editor’s Wishlist

Pod 5, Eight Sleep, £2,499

Railton Bedside Table, Soho Home, £1,695

Highlight Milk, Rhode, £28 “I’ve loved ditching heavy makeup over the summer and don’t quite feel ready to go back to hour-long glam sessions just yet. I’ll definitely be picking this up to try and recreate that fresh-faced winter glow without the need for full coverage”

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THE READING LIST BookTok creator and thriller extraordinare Francesca Pavis, shares her top picks, for the months ahead What are some of the biggest book trends we could see in 2027? While it’s not possible to see into the future, spending so much time reading and reviewing, there are a few trends which I think we’ll see more of - including more genre blending. We’ve seen this with romance and fantasy creating an entirely new genre (romantasy), and I would expect this pattern to follow with thriller and romance or thriller and horror. In 2027, I see horror continuing to become more mainstream, especially cross-genre horror as opposed to traditional, supernatural horror. We are already seeing an upward trend of this largely off the back of an incredible run of horror films across 2026. These types of trends always impact across different types of media.

When it comes to choosing our next big read, what should we be looking out for? There’s a difference between finding the next popular read and your next favourite

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read. I would always encourage readers to lean into what they personally enjoy, as reading is such a subjective experience. Think about what you loved most about the last book you couldn’t put down: Did it have a dark atmosphere? Twists that you genuinely couldn’t believe? A big emotional impact? Then look for author and creator suggestions, or ask friends you know have similar tastes to you.

What’s a book you wish you could read again for the first time? I would do anything to read The Favourites by Layne Fargo again for the first time. This isn’t the genre I would typically gravitate towards, but the addictiveness and format of this book was like nothing else I’ve read. We’re following two ice dancers over 20 years, on their rise from skating in their garden to the Olympics. But, the beauty of this book is all the interpersonal dynamics that come alongside it. It’s told from both their points of view, but every few chapters is a documentary style looking back. This author is traditionally a thriller author, so the pacing is quick, and it holds your attention like nothing else in this space, while giving you an extra layer of drama.

What’s the best book you’ve read this year so far? Easily my favourite book of 2026 so far is My Husband’s Wife by Alice Feeney. We’re following a woman who comes home from a run to her husband, only to be greeted with another woman opening the front door after her key doesn’t fit in the lock. Then, to make things worse, her husband doesn’t recognise her either! To me, this is the perfect balance of every trope in a thriller book.

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“BOOKTOK OPENS YOU UP TO A WORLD OF TITLES YOU MIGHT OTHERWISE NEVER FIND”

It had two fantastic points of view - which I equally enjoyed wonderfully developed characters and several plot twists that left me feeling satisfied. It was also easy to read, so I highly recommend it even if you are new to thriller books.

Why do you think certain books take off so dramatically on social media? Social media is fast-paced and easily digestible; books that reflect that are often the ones people keep talking about and recommending. If a book elicits a strong emotional reaction, that then translates well to video, with everyone wanting to experience

the same thing. This could be as simple as an incredible plot twist or a heartbreaking ending. While we’re taught not to judge a book by its cover, due to the visual-first nature of social media, there is an element of striking covers holding attention for longer, or at least enough time for a creator to tell you the premise.

Has BookTok changed the way you read or choose books? BookTok has definitely impacted the way I choose which books to read, but probably not in the way you think. It’s less about reading what’s trending, and more about being exposed to hundreds more titles than you would be otherwise.

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“BOOKTOK HAS DEFINITELY IMPACTED THE WAY I CHOOSE WHICH BOOKS TO READ, BUT PROBABLY NOT IN THE WAY YOU THINK” I’ve always enjoyed thriller books, which is why my career is now dedicated to this genre specifically, but as a reader, BookTok opens you up to a world of titles you might otherwise never find. It also gives smaller authors a platform to reach readers that would really enjoy their books.

@sallyhepworth

@andreamaraauthor

@JackJordanOfficial

Who are three authors we need to have on our radars right now and why? Jack Jordan is a British author who writes highconcept thriller books and adds something new to the genre. All of his concepts are completely original and really make you think. Andrea Mara is an Irish author who has been publishing thriller books for a number of years, but has recently reached my radar due to the action of her books starting right on page one. Sally Hepworth is an author whose books I’ve recently picked up for the first time and she writes thrillers that are so immersive, yet emotional.

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Which book-to-screen adaptations are you most excited for and why? There are so many incredible bookto-screen adaptations coming up in the next 12 months! Firstly, Verity by Colleen Hoover is coming to screens in October, which I anticipate will be a massive hit. Not only is the book fantastic but the star-studded line up of Anne Hathaway, Dakota Johnson, and Josh Harnett will pull this together on screen fantastically. Incidents Around the House by Josh Malaman is also being adapted into Other Mommy this October. This film will absolutely be one for horror lovers - we have the trailer already which looks incredible. I also have full faith this will be a great adaptation, as this author also wrote the hit Birdbox. In 2027 we also have the second season of the Off Campus series based on the books by Elle Kennedy. Season one was one of the biggest breakout shows of 2026, and readers are already beyond excited for the next season. Speaking of sequels, The Housemaid by Freida McFadden is getting a second film in 2027 as well.

Everyone Here is Lying, Shari Lapena This book follows 9-year-old Avery, whose dad comes home after calling off an affair, ready to take it out on her - except she goes missing a few hours later. I suspected every single character in this small neighbourhood, and it’s one of the best domestic thrillers I’ve ever read.

The Only One Left, Riley Sager The Only One Left follows careworker, Kit, who goes to look after a suspected serial killer in an isolated cliffside mansion. His client, Lenora, wants to tell her version of events, but has to do so very slowly using a typewriter. This book is so fantastic because the characters in Lenora’s eerie story mirrored some characters that were still caring for her in the present day. Follow Francesca on TikTok, @PavisFrancesca

3 BOOKS FRANCESCA’S RECOMMENDING AS YOUR NEXT BIG READ: Little Secrets, Jennifer Hillier Little Secrets by Jennifer Hillier follows Maura, a woman whose son went missing one year ago. With the case going cold, she decides to hire a private investigator who finds out way more about her life and she bargained for. The writing is phenomenal, the twists are brilliant, and the POV switches are chefs kiss. It’s just an all round fantastic book that I can’t really fault.

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3 for 3 for 3 for £15.00 £15 £15 .00 .00 5.99/kg

5.£99 5.99 /kg/kg

3 for 3 for Pitted Pitted Prunes Prunes £15 .00 £Prunes 15Pitted .00 £

5.99/kg £5.99/kg

Pitted Prunes Pitted Prunes

Mixed Nuts Mixed Mixed Nuts Nuts

Mixed Nuts Mixed Nuts

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CHRISTMAS G I FT GUIDE:

Titanium Pro Cookware Set (10 pieces), Our Place, £475

Butter Dish, John Lewis, £38

16cm Chef’s Knife, Wüsthof, £99 Shrimp Serving Platter, &Klevering at Liberty, £65

Bernardo Serving Bowl, MADE, £28

THE KITCHEN GURU

This is exactly what the hostess with the mostest wants this year

Tennis Tea Towels, West Elm, £39 (set of 2)

Wireless Smart Meat Thermometer, Meater, £67.99 Oil Pourer, TOAST, £60

Kitchen Scales, SMEG, £129 38

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BLUSH | L E I S U R E & L I F E S T Y L E

Earrings, Miss Cecilia, £32

Personalised Necklace, PRYA, from £51

Pilates Socks, Elliosa, £17 Goldenstar Evelina Clog, Ugg, £160

Jewellery Box, Zara Home, £69.99

Scarf, Urban Outfitters, £26

THE STYLE OBSESSIVE Your most fashionable friend will thank you later

T-shirt, Fanclub at Wolf & Badger, £45 Ring Set, Zynnia Collective, £96 Weekend Bag, Oliver Bonas, £70

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Mini Mirror, Glossier, £16 Phlur Discovery Kit, Sephora, £39

Lipstick Case, Guerlain, £32

Makeup Travel Case, The Flat Lay Co, £19.99 Forever Eye Masks, Dieux Skin, £22

THE BEAUTY ICON

Creaseless Hair Clips, SpaceNK, £10

Just when you think they have everything - take a look at these

Backstage Rosy Glow Stick, Dior, £37 The Renewal Cream, Dua by AB, £60 Red Light Therapy Hairbrush, StylPro, £39.99 40

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Tube Squeezer, Isamaya, £15 sevenstarmedia.co.uk

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Sensa-Duo Silk Pillowcase, LilySilk, £24 Deep Sleep Mask, Dore & Rose, £39

Reusable Film Camera, The Go-To, £55.23

Bali Medium Backpack, Kapten & Son, £134.90

THE NOMAD

Luggage Tags, Aspinal of London, £85 (set of 2)

Travel Journal, Papier, £29

For the world traveller you adore most

Jewellery Roll, John Lewis x Sanderson, £25

Tote Bag, Monty, £35

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026 TRENDS

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Transform your hom The interior trends to have on your radar this season, from the experts at Furniture Village

Avorio Large pop-up extending dining table and 4 dining chairs £1,795 All products available from Furniture Village

furniturevillage.co.uk

S the evenings draw in, autumn and winter invite a slower, more considered way of living. It’s the season to close the doors, layer warmth and create spaces that cocoon and restore. This year, reimagine your home through a richer, more atmospheric lens, where every room feels like an escape, wrapped in comfort. Our Autumn/Winter 2026 looks each bring a distinct perspective to the season. From reflective accents and warm blush hues to expressive patterns and gem-like colours, they create layered, opulent interiors that transform everyday living into an immersive retreat for the colder months.

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Artisan Collection Belgrave High floor standing king size headboard £899 Artisan Collection Premium Platform Top King size divan base £500 Calista Rug from £119 Francesca 2 door and 2 drawer sideboard £499 Acanto table lamp £179 Heston Small arch mirror £119 All products available from Furniture Village

Trend:

MIRROR MIRROR

OLISHED, provocative, and undeniably chic, Mirror Mirror captures the highoctane glamour of a Manhattan loft. This look fuses elaborate architectural bones with plush, feminine detailing to craft a sanctuary of light, luxury, and decorative depth. Floor-to-ceiling windows and exposed architectural detailing are softened by shimmering neutrals and punctuated by whispers of soft pink and sage green. A chic grey sofa provides a sophisticated anchor for the living space, while a marble dining table serves as a cool, tactile centrepiece for evening soirées. The pièce de résistance? A curated gallery of mirrors that catch the light, expanding the horizons of each room and adding a cinematic depth to every corner. In the bedroom, the drama continues with a majestic button-back bed, in a nod to classic uptown elegance. To complete the look, lean into the interplay of hard and soft: pair cool metallic accents and reflective glass with plush velvet cushions. Mirror Mirror isn’t just an interior style; it’s an invitation to live larger. This look evokes the hum of the city skyline, the clink of crystal at twilight, and the effortless poise of a penthouse retreat. It’s a space designed for those who view their home as a stage, where every reflection tells a story of refined luxury and urban grace. Mirror Mirror turns the everyday into an encore.

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026 TRENDS

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me into a winter haven At The Helm Shackleton 2 seater fabric Chesterfield sofa £1,695 Lumora Rug from £89 G Plan Marlow Wide sideboard £999 G Plan Marlow Lamp table £249 Avela Table lamp £99 All products available from Furniture Village

Earth 190cm dining table £799 Earth 180cm dining bench £349 Avela Floor lamp £249 Mazia Lines rug from £69 All products available from Furniture Village

Trend:

PATTERN PLAY

vibrant celebration of maximalist charm and curated eccentricity, Pattern Play transforms the home into a rhythmic tapestry of colour and character. This look is defined by confidence, where heritage meets contemporary energy and every corner tells a story of textured abundance. The palette is rich and evocative, drawing on deep cinnamon, burnt terracotta, and mustard, all grounded by earthy undertones. This warmth carries into the bedroom, where striped walls provide a striking backdrop for a plush upholstered bed and an array of patterned accent cushions. In the dining room, the mood becomes more theatrical; bold mural walls set the stage for a raw wood bench-style dining set, beautifully softened by tactile hand-finished ceramics. In the living room, a classic sofa in forest green velvet offers timeless comfort whilst a trunk coffee table brings a sense of history to the space. A statement armchair in deep burgundy provides a luxurious retreat, while a dark wood sideboard serves as a curated stage for oversized table lamps and artisanal pottery. This look celebrates the art and joy of expressive living. By layering contrasting textures and spirited prints, Pattern Play creates a home that feels soulful and alive. A warm and spirited space for the season ahead.

furniturevillage.co.uk

Laurent End Ottoman king size bed frame £699 G Plan Marlow Lamp table £249 Claretta Dome 1 light pendant £79 All products available from Furniture Village

Prices correct at print

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Mariah 3 seater fabric classic back sofa £1,545 Velaro Armchair in Biscuit £349 Omari Coffee table £499 Blanche Floor lamp £219 Crispin Rug from £249 All products available from Furniture Village

Elegante 180cm dining table with 4 dining chairs £1,095 All products available from Furniture Village

Trend:

PLASTER PINK

E Bourne King size ottoman bed frame £1,299 Dove Lamp table £299 Blanche Table lamp £79 All products available from Furniture Village

furniturevillage.co.uk

026 TRENDS

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NVELOPING, earthy, and serene, Plaster Pink is a masterclass in tonal depth and seasonal warmth. Drawing inspiration from the raw, tactile finishes of artisanal plaster and the soft, diffused glow of a winter sunset, this look creates a home that feels both grounded and ethereal as the nights draw in. A sophisticated spectrum of blush and plaster pink is layered with cool and warm neutrals, offering a palette that is both calming and chic. The mood is one of quiet luxury and comfort, perfectly suited for an autumn-winter retreat. In the lounge, a circular marble coffee table takes centre stage, paired with a plush brown sofa for ultimate comfort during long evenings. The dining space continues the narrative, where a dual-tone pink striped wall adds a rhythmic, contemporary edge that remains graceful and grounded by rich sculptural brown dining chairs. In the bedroom, the mood is one of pure indulgence. A velvet bed in delicate blush pink offers a soft, inviting escape, layered with a sumptuous grey blanket for seasonal warmth. This trend invites you to embrace the beauty of texture and tone. Plaster Pink isn’t just about a single shade; it’s about the harmony of materials. The result is a home that radiates sophistication and warmth, offering a winter-ready sanctuary.

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Trend:

JEWEL TONES

026 TRENDS

BLUSH | A D V E R T O R I A L Artisan Collection Austin High floor standing king size headboard in Plush Corn £899 Artisan Collection Premium Platform Top King size divan base £500 Cashmere Side table £179 Alba Copper table lamp £169 All products available from Furniture Village

RINGING depth and drama, Jewel Tones transforms the home into a cinematic retreat of moody elegance and high-shine allure. This look is defined by a curated sense of luxury, where the nostalgic glamour of the seventies meets a modern, polished edge. The palette is unapologetically bold, anchored by deep midnight blue and rich walnut and punctuated by vibrant hues of mustard and burgundy. In the living room, this atmospheric intensity is embraced through midnight walls and dark wooden shelving tiered with curated curiosities. A deep blue velvet sofa serves as the centrepiece, dressed in geometric cushions that lead the eye toward a statement burgundy armchair and a sculptural floor lamp. This richness carries seamlessly into the bedroom, where walnut-panelled walls provide an architectural anchor for a plush mustard upholstered bed. The warmth of the wood is contrasted by the cool precision of chrome accents, creating a space that feels intimate and impeccably tailored. In the dining room, the focus shifts to midcentury silhouettes; a striking star-base table is paired with upholstered chairs in a deep, rust hue, while a large, curved wooden mirror reflects the light to add movement and depth. This look celebrates the art of the evening. Blending evocative colours with reflective finishes, Jewel Tones creates a space that feels layered, atmospheric, and refined.

Bodahl Njord Raw edge 180cm dining table with metal star base £1,799 Jose Set of 4 swivel dining arm chairs £769 Jamila Dark mirror £169 Shyla Rug from £89 All products available from Furniture Village

Shop the looks now at...

furniturevillage.co.uk

Elphaba Fabric 3 seater sofa £1,195 Saffron Fabric chair £495 G Plan Marlow Coffee table £449 Flory Floor lamp £279 Rora Rug from £69 All products available from Furniture Village

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Prices correct at print

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CELEBRATING 125 YEARS OF CRAFTSMANSHIP

Welcome to Vispring. Welcome Home.

Flagship London Showroom 22 Regent Street, St. James’s, London, SW1Y 4PH - T. +44 (0)20 7043 3212 Vispring Marylebone 15 Orchard St, London W1H 6HG - T. +44 (0)20 7935 0225 Vispring Manchester 55 King St, Manchester M2 4LQ - T. +44 (0)16 1505 1072 Trade Showroom Third Floor, South Dome, Design Centre, Lots Road, London, SW10 0XE - T. +44 (0)20 7736 9775 Also available through Vispring authorised retailers, find your nearest stockist on our website VISPRING.COM

BLUSH | U L T I M A T E T R AV E L

DESTINATION: DINNER These restaurants have foodies globetrotting just to secure a reservation

BACA’V, PARIS Price: ££

JONDAL, IBIZA Price: £££££

Good for:

Long, slow lunches, celebrity spotting, and the height of Ibizan luxury. Jondal has earned its reputation for being an ‘if you know, you know’ spot on the island, as a part-beach club, and part-restaurant perched right on the edge of Cala Jondal. Think indulgent, freshly-caught seafood, and prime views of the glistening ocean.

Good for:

Michelin Guide-approved French bistro food and a generous wine selection (440, to be exact). With typical Parisian flair (think outside tables and good conversation), chef Gilles Choukroun is serving up the best of French comfort food in the heart of the city.

MUSAAFER, HOUSTON, TEXAS Price: £££

Good for: An authentic Indian

fine-dining journey, complete with its own Michelin star. Inspired by its chef’s own road trip across India, the menu marries local ingredients and preparations from across the country. Current highlights on its everchanging menu include tuna papad, tandoori octopus, and beef short ribs packed with true Indian flavours.

STOW, MANCHESTER Price: ££

Good for: Wood-fired, seasonal flavours in a low-lit, perfectly moody dining room. The menu changes monthly, but at time of writing, highlights include handpicked crab and fennel flatbread, spiced lamb belly with damson jam, and salmon crudo. It turns out that upscale dining and a no-fuss atmosphere really can go handin-hand.

BERENJAK, LONDON Price: ££

Good for:

Michelin Bib Gourmandwinning Persian food, offering a modern, refined take on traditional favourites. With a menu packed with kababs, mazeh, and breads, they don’t do portions by halves - and it’s easy to see why their reservations list is months-long at a time. blushmagazine.org.uk

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5 THINGS TO TRY IN… SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA

K-culture has cemented this vibrant city as Gen Z’s favourite for the fifth year in a row Show off your creative flair in a traditional workshop

Korea’s rich culture means that it’s also a trinket lover’s dream. Workshops run by locals are the most wholesome way to put your creative hat on and truly experience some of its best ‘if you know, you know’ offerings, from the people that know it best. Some of those we’ve spotted include Dojang making (or, to you and I, that’s a traditional hand-carved stone stamp used to sign official documents),

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bookbinding, chopstick making, and a Makgeolli class - an homage to one of the most-loved sparkling rice wine drinks in the country.

Marvel at the city from above If, like us, you’re a sucker for a good view, Seoul is one place you’ll definitely want to consider seeing from the sky, as well as on the ground. Lotte World Tower - the sixth-tallest building in the world - and N Seoul Tower, with its observation deck 466 metres above sea level, are just two of the most-sought-after spots for seeing the city and beyond light up.

Step back in time at some of the world’s most Instagrammable spots When it comes to history, there are few places that can trump South Korea - and its best places for learning are also some of its most photogenic. Gyeongbokgung Palace, the first royal palace of the Joseon dynasty,

the National Museum of Korea, and the Han River are just some of the must-see landmarks that deserve a spot in your itinerary.

Leave the night markets with a full stomach, and a fuller heart Everywhere you look Korean food is trending, so it would be rude not to indulge, in the centre of its birthplace, right? Seoul is renowned for offering some of the best late-night food markets (Myeongdong and Gwanjang are the ones to keep on your radar), whether you’re a Korean fried chicken loyalist, tteokbokki lover (which are also known as spicy, chewy rice cakes), or seeking comfort in gyeranppang (warm, fluffy egg bread). Consider booking a tour guide so you can breeze past the tourist traps and hit the spots with the South Korean stamp of approval.

Immerse yourself in your favourite show on Nami Island Located just an hour and a half outside of Seoul, you can be transported to the location that plays home to some of the world’s biggest Korean dramas: Nami Island. The half-moon-shaped river island is laden with pine trees, gingko trees, and redwood giants, making it an oasis of calm away from the bustling city. While it’s perfect for leisurely strolls, it’s also reachable by one of Asia’s longest ziplines, soaring 80 metres above the ground for almost one mile.

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BLUSH | S T Y L E

Trench, Zara, £59.50

Suede longline coat, The Couture Club, £64

The Cosy Edit Simone Black Vinyl Coat, Kitri, £85

The season for wrapping up is here our picks of the best winter coats to shop right now Borg jacket, Topshop, £30 Tara Faux Fur Maxi Coat, The Ragged Priest, £100

Puffer, Diesel, £252

Wool-blend coat, Mango at John Lewis, £79.99

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Scarf, TBCo, £65

e c i N y Berr Wool coat, &OtherStories, £229

g cementine palette e r a s e i r o raspber ious wardrob r t e r & s e mpt lberri u u r c m s y d y l o Mo in a tru e c a l p r Cardigan, thei Ganni, £225

Top, Whistles, £49.50

Skirt, Whistles, £89

Bag, Parfois, £29.99

Cap, Polo Ralph Lauren, £70

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BLUSH | S T Y L E

Bag, JW PEI, £125

t c e f f E e c i Tw THE K O O L

Slingbacks, Primark, £18

Reversible trench, Damson Madder, £145

ing a few ngs, d n e b & i on fasten m traditi n o r e f g e e t r f x aking ms, ne e h r We’re bre e t off-kil k n the room i g h n t i d n s a e l m style ru whole lot of com &a Shirt, ASOS Design, £32

Jumper, Alemais, £210

Dress, Mango, £29.99

Trousers, Manière De Voir, £120

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BLUSH | S T Y L E

Bag, Topshop, £20.99

g a h S g The Bi

Jumper, &OtherStories, £87

Jacket, Abercrombie & Fitch at ASOS, £54

inter W / n m u t u ck into A he texture a b n u f e l all in t ject a litt ’s n t i i o , t e e m m i s ti It’s t and thi

Shoes, H&M, £27.99

Trench, River Island, £59.99

Dress, H&M, £31

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Top, Monsoon, £43.80

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l a m i Anfever

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he whole o t t u b r e e mem n isn’t ov h g t i e t r o ’s g d r t Leopa om jus d g n i k l anima

Dress, M&S, £28

Gloves, Barneys at ASOS, £25

Adjsutible Cap, New Era, £30

Top, River Island, £16

Coat, Zara, £74.50

Clutch bag, Topshop, £48 Denim trousers, Adidas, £50

Samba OG Trainers, Adidas at ASOS, £100

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ONE WARDROBE, FOUR SEASONS We’re making our wardrobes work harder this winter and you don’t need to reinvent yourself with the changing weather

E’RE officially entering the period of the year where our style descends into chaos. It’s too cold for t-shirts, too warm for

BLUSH | W I N T E R 2 0 2 6

jackets, and frankly, our wardrobes are spending more time on the bedroom floor than actually being put to good use. We get it - it’s confusing - and year after year, we refuse to feel settled until the temperatures have plummeted low enough that we have no choice but to wear the same three thick, woolly jumpers on repeat. But it doesn’t have to be like this - we promise. Nailing trans-seasonal dressing is an art form, but once you’ve got it down to a T, you’ll be free from any autumnal fashion faux pas for good - and can stop buying pieces that won’t ever see the

light of day again. Instead, you’ll have a perfectly-curated rotation of essentials that you can pull out and layer up, come rain or shine. “Trans-seasonal dressing is about making your wardrobe work harder between seasons”, Luxury Stylist and Image Consultant, Oriona Robb, tells us of where to begin.

“INSTEAD OF PACKING AWAY ONE WARDROBE AND BRINGING OUT ANOTHER, YOU’RE LAYERING, ADAPTING AND STYLING THE SAME PIECES IN DIFFERENT WAYS. IT’S PRACTICAL, BUT IT ALSO HELPS YOU BUY LESS AND WEAR MORE” “Most people already own everything they need,” she continues. “Think about a lightweight knit over a summer dress, tailoring with sandals, or adding a blazer to denim to completely change an outfit without spending a fortune.

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“Look for pieces that sit comfortably between warm and cool weather. A classic blazer, trench coat, white shirt, wide-leg trousers, straight-leg jeans, a lightweight knit, loafers, and a silk scarf are all incredibly versatile. They work with both summer and autumn pieces, and never really go out of style.” So, we’ve got our puffer coats in one hand and a pair of shorts in the other: Where do we go from here? Well, Oriona suggests we shouldn’t be too hasty in ditching the remnants of summer just yet. “Start with your summer staples and build on them”, she advises. “Wear a slip dress with an oversized knit, pair linen trousers with a cashmere jumper, or layer a blazer over a simple T-shirt and shorts.”

“IT’S THE CONTRAST THAT MAKES OUTFITS FEEL MODERN. YOU’RE EXTENDING THE LIFE OF YOUR WARDROBE RATHER THAN REPLACING IT” However, that doesn’t mean we can’t mix what we already own with newer, more trend-dictated pieces to keep our style feeling fresh. “We’re continuing to see a move towards timeless dressing rather than fast fashion”, Oriona concludes - which, technically, means in a few seasons’ time, we may find there’s no need for any new additions to our transitional wardrobes at all. “Rich, chocolate brown, deep olive, burgundy, and butter yellow will all feature strongly. Soft tailoring, relaxed suiting, suede accessories, and elegant layering are key”, she adds. “The focus is on quality fabrics and effortless styling rather than following every trend.” So, while the weather may never quite know what it’s doing, your wardrobe most certainly can.

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3 TRANSSEASONAL STAPLES TO ADD TO YOUR WARDROBE

Mango, £79.99

THE WELL-CUT BLAZER

Nobody’s Child, £54

M&S, £26

THE LIGHTWEIGHT KNIT Sisters & Seekers, £62

CLASSIC LOAFERS Coach, £125

Tony Bianco, £80

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HIGH -END

SOFIA RICHIEGRAINGE

Wool Pleat Loop Shorts, St.Agni, £457

Tolu Coker Wool Shorts, Topshop x, £60

Snug Leather Thong Sandals, Jude, £450

Mattie Blazer, SRG, £361

THE A-LIST EDIT

These celebrities had some of the most headturning looks of the last few months - and now you can shop their style

EMMA ROBERTS Champaca Skirt, Anna October, £343

HIGH STREET

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Kris Pearl Mules, Andrea Wazen, $360

GIGI HADID

Verner Cutout Dress, Christopher Esber, £660

Bag, SelfPortrait, £210

Cardigan, Fancí Club, $260

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JOEY KING Dress, Leo Lin, £780

Sequin Mini Dress, Zara, £39.99

Dulcis Cocktail Ring, Swarovski, £47

BELLA THORNE

Rosalie 100 Sandals, Christian Louboutin, £720

HIGH STREET

Sheer Rib Tank, SKIMS, £48

HIGH -END Sheer Tank Top, Laformela, €244

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Rhea Open Front Shirt, Ann Demeulemeester, £616

DUA LIPA

Western Belt, Celine, £440

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YOUR AW26 WARDROBE: REIMAGINED

Photographer: Adedamola Adetoyi

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Recreate the look: Dress: NA-KD Earrings: Soru

As seen at:

Saint Laurent, Loewe

TEDDY TACTICS

A visual feast and ultra-cosy, this season’s statement is all in the texture - the cuddlier, the better

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Photographer: David Manzyck

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Recreate the look: Coat: &OtherStories Boots: AllSaints

SEEING DOUBLEBREASTED

As seen at:

Acne Studios, Bottega Veneta

Whether a short trench or an oversized boyfriend duster, the ultimate wingman of every I-triedwithout-trying wardrobe is back in all its glory

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Photographer: Mert Coşkun

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Recreate the look: Mary Jane shoes: OFFICE Jeans: Uniqlo Lace cami: ASOS Design Sweater: John Lewis

As seen at:

Cecilie Bahnsen & Prada

LIVED-IN LAYERING Clean girl layering is officially out:

This season is dedicated to bringing all of your most maximalist moments together unapologetically

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Photographer: Blaze Swiss/Yemi Wallington

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Recreate the look: Jacket: The Couture Club Skirt: MISSGUIDED Heels: Lhambi

RIPPING UP THE RULE BOOK

As seen at:

Zimmermann, Prada

Where Autumn/Winter was once about layering up, it’s now about applying cold-weather fabrics to our favourite year-round silhouettes

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Boots, Steve Madden, £200 Dress, Primark, £18

Earrings, Lovisa, £12

DINNER AND DRINKS

Coat, Maebe, £180

FIT FOR ‘27 Earrings, Swarovski, £55

Top, Club L London, £75

Trousers, Club L London, £85

THE HOUSYE PART

Ballet Pumps, M&S, £36

Bag, Topshop, £42

Bangle, LunaLea, £42.95

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Earrings, Rare Matters at Wolf & Badger, £70

Bag, True Decadence at ASOS, £38

THE AIL COCRKTTY PA

Dress, Rare London, £135

Heels, JW PEI, £140

Bag, Zara, £39.99

PARTY ‘TIL DAWN

Dress, Lavish Alice, £228

Earrings, Prya, £26 Heels, Zara, £39.99

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BLUSH | H E A L T H & F I T N E S S

Nima Safaei’s

WINTER WARMERS

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BLUSH | H E A L T H & F I T N E S S

The founder of some of Soho’s most-loved Italian restaurants, Nima shares a dish he returns to time and time again

VENISON MAFALDA WITH BLACK TRUFFLE MAKES: 2-4 As the evenings draw in and the temperature drops, this rich and warming dish is exactly what you need. The earthy flavours of venison paired with the luxurious touch of truffle create something truly special for an autumn supper.

INGR EDIENTS

- 1 onion, peeled and ﬁnely chopped - 2 garlic cloves, peeled and ﬁnely chopped - Sea salt - 4 venison burgers, crumbled - 400g Mutti chopped tomatoes - 250ml red wine - Freshly-ground black pepper - Truffle dust (a generous pinch) - 350g mafalde (use a good quality Italian brand like De Cecco) - Grated parmesan, to serve - Good quality olive oil

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METHOD

Heat a couple of tablespoons of olive oil in a large, deep frying pan, or sauté pan over a medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook gently for about ﬁve minutes, until softened. Add the garlic and cook for another minute.

Crumble the venison burgers into the pan, breaking them up with a wooden spoon. Season with salt and cook for about ﬁve minutes stirring occasionally - until the meat is browned all over.

Pour in the red wine and let it bubble away for a couple of minutes, then add the tin of Mutti tomatoes. Season with freshly-ground black pepper and add a generous pinch of truffle dust. Stir everything together, then reduce the heat and let the sauce simmer gently for about 20 minutes, until rich and thick.

While the sauce is simmering, bring a large pan of water to the boil for the pasta. Add plenty of salt, then cook the mafalde until al dente.

Reserve a cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and add it directly to the venison sauce. Toss everything together, adding a splash of the reserved cooking water - if needed - to loosen the sauce.

Divide between warmed serving bowls and top with a generous grating of parmesan, alongside an extra pinch of truffle dust.

At Home with Nima: Simple & Fresh Italian Food is out now.

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Feel stronger in 4 weeks A little movement can make a big difference.

Your 4-Week HIIT Plan Week 1

Build the base

30 sec workout/60 sec rest

High Knees

Goblet Squats

Plank Hold

Push-Ups

Week 2

Turn it up

As routines settle back in after summer, now is the perfect time to focus on feeling stronger. Our simple four-week HIIT plan can help you build fitness and confidence, with workouts that take just 20-30 minutes of your day.

40 sec workout/40 sec rest

HIIT (High Intensity Interval Training) is a simple, effective way to make the most of your workout time. By combining short bursts of effort with recovery periods, it can help improve fitness, build endurance and support your goals, whatever your starting point.

Week 3

Over the next four weeks, you’ll gradually increase the challenge by extending workout periods, reducing recovery time and progressing your exercises, helping you feel stronger, fitter and more confident with every session.

Top Tip:

Aim for 2-3 HIIT sessions per week, leaving at least one day between sessions to recover. For more HIIT tips visit our blog here

3-4 rounds

Jump Squats Push-Ups

4 rounds

Mountain Climbers

Alternating Lunges

Challenge yourself

45 sec workout/30 sec rest Burpees

Jump Lunges

4-5 rounds

Dumbbell Squat to Press

Plank Shoulder Taps

Week 4

Peak week

50 sec workout/20 sec rest Burpees

Plank Hold

5 rounds

Dumbbell Thrusters

Mountain Climbers

Veggie Chickpea, Spinach and Lentil Curry Rich in iron

Ready in 35 mins

Serves 4

Getting enough iron in your diet is crucial for vegans and non-vegans alike, particularly for women with monthly menstrual cycles and teenage girls, who are more at risk of iron deficiency than other populations. Iron helps the body to produce red blood cells and ensures enough oxygen is carried around the body, which helps with everything from reducing fatigue to improving the immune system and supporting cognitive and physical performance.

Ingredients

Low calorie oil spray 1 onion, diced 2 cloves garlic, diced 160g red pepper, chopped 1 tbsp paprika 1 tbsp curry powder 1 tsp cumin 400g can chopped tomatoes 400g canned green lentils 400g chickpeas 400g wholegrain brown rice 200g spinach 40g pine nuts

Method 1 2 3 4

6 7

Heat a frying pan to a high heat and spray generously with low calorie oil spray. Add your chopped onion and garlic and cook until soft, around 3-4 minutes.

Add the red pepper, herbs and spices and cook for 2 minutes, making sure to stir. Turn the heat down to medium and add the chopped tomatoes, green lentils, chickpeas and 50ml of water. Stir until completely mixed.

Simmer for 10 minutes. Whilst this is simmering cook the wholegrain brown rice as instructed on the packet. Stir the spinach into the curry and once wilted remove the pan from the heat. Serve the curry with the rice and top with pine nuts and optional coriander, yogurt or cream and enjoy!

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Winter

Wellness According to world-leading biohacker Gary Brecka, the secret to feeling your best year-round lies in syncing your routine with the seasons

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HEN we think of winter, our minds tend to go straight to cold-weather sniffles, depleted vitamin levels, and that familiar feeling of being as under the weather as… well, the weather itself. But what if things didn’t have to be that way? We’re not talking about giving up the indulgence of the festive season, either. Instead, it’s about building a few small, non-negotiable habits into your daily routine that can help you feel your best, even when the days are shorter, the temperatures are lower, and your calendar is packed with Christmas plans. From getting your morning light exposure right, to knowing when to prioritise sleep, movement, and nutrition, there are simple ways to work with the season rather than against it. And while they might sound like simple changes, consistently making the right choices at the right time can have a meaningful impact on how you feel. That’s where Gary Brecka comes in. A former mortality researcher and now world-leading biohacker, Brecka shares practical health advice with more than three million followers, helping people adopt the daily habits that can have the biggest impact on how they feel. Here, he shares his biggest tips for staying healthy, energised, and resilient this winter without sacrificing celebrations along the way.

“WE WAKE IN THE DARK, SIT UNDER ARTIFICIAL LIGHT ALL DAY, GET HOME IN THE DARK, AND THEN WONDER WHY WE FEEL SWITCHED OFF”

Winter can affect our mood, sleep, and motivation. How much of that is lifestyle, and how much is biology? “The biology is real: less daylight means your body clock gets a weaker signal, your melatonin timing drifts, and your serotonin tends to dip - which shows up as flat mood, poor sleep, and no drive. But what makes it worse is entirely down to lifestyle. “We wake in the dark, sit under artificial light all day, get home in the dark, and then wonder why we feel switched off. The biology sets the conditions, and the lifestyle decides how hard it hits you. That’s the good news,

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because the part you control is the bigger lever. “However, I want to be clear: if someone’s mood drops badly every winter, year after year, that is worth taking to a doctor rather than solving with a light bulb.”

Are there any vitamins you think people should be paying particular attention to during winter? “Vitamin D is the obvious one in Britain. From about October to March, the sun does not get high enough in the sky to make much of it, so your levels drift down for months. UK health guidance already tells everyone to consider a daily supplement through autumn and winter, which is a rare case of official advice and my advice agreeing. “Magnesium is the second, because most people run low, and it matters for sleep and stress. “Third, the B vitamins - and here is where I would say something specific - look for the active forms such as methylated B12 and active folate, rather than folic acid, because a lot of people carry a common genetic variant that makes converting the cheap form inefficient. My honest position is do not guess at any of this.

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“Get tested, find out what you are actually short of, and supplement that rather than buying a shelf of bottles on a hunch.”

How can people protect their sleep and energy levels when the days are shorter, and we’re getting less natural light? “Get outside first thing - and I mean outside - not near a window. Even a grey, British morning is many times brighter than your kitchen light, and that is the signal your body clock is looking for. “10-15 minutes while you drink your coffee is enough, and it does more for your evening sleep than anything you do at bedtime. Then, hold your wake time steady, including weekends, because a consistent wake time is what anchors the whole rhythm. “Go the other way at night: drop the lights in your house after dinner, get the screens out of the bedroom, and keep the room cool and dark. Bright mornings, dim evenings. That is the whole protocol, and it costs nothing.”

Sauna and cold plunge were huge wellness staples over the summer. Should we be bringing them into the colder months, and how? “Sauna, absolutely, and I would argue it earns its place more in winter than summer. The heat, the relaxation, the fact that it gets you out of the house and usually around other people in the season when everybody hibernates; all of that matters. “Cold is where I would change the approach. In summer, you have to go and find the cold. In winter, it is already outside, so you do not need an expensive plunge pool - a cold shower and a walk in the wind will do plenty!

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“EVEN A GREY, BRITISH MORNING IS MANY TIMES BRIGHTER THAN YOUR KITCHEN LIGHT, AND THAT IS THE SIGNAL YOUR BODY CLOCK IS LOOKING FOR”

“But go shorter and go smarter if you do plunge, because cold water in a British winter is a different animal to cold water in July. “Ease in, breathe, do not do it alone in open water, and if you have any heart or breathing condition, speak to your doctor before you start. Cold shock is the real risk, and it deserves respect rather than bravado.”

Winter tends to mean more comfort food, less sleep, and plenty of socialising. Is it really possible to enjoy the season without undoing your health goals? blushmagazine.org.uk

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“Christmas dinner has never been anyone’s problem. The problem is the eight weeks of drift around it, where the training stops, the sleep goes, and every day becomes a write-off because you had a mince pie. “Eat the food, go to the party, and enjoy your family. Then, keep two or three anchors non-negotiable through the whole period: protein at breakfast, a daily walk, and your usual wake time. “Those anchors mean the good days do not turn into a lost season. Sitting out your own Christmas to protect a health goal is not health - that is just a different kind of imbalance.”

“SITTING OUT YOUR OWN CHRISTMAS TO PROTECT A HEALTH GOAL IS NOT HEALTH” What’s one winter health myth that you wish people would stop believing? “That cold weather is what makes you ill. It does not. You get sick more in winter because everybody moves indoors and shares the same air. The heating dries out your airways so they defend you less well, viruses survive longer in cold, dry conditions, and your vitamin D and your sleep are both usually down. “Being chilly is not the cause. It matters because if you think the cold is the enemy, you stay indoors and avoid it, when going outside is genuinely one of the better things you can do for your body in winter. “Fix the air, the light, the sleep, and the nutrients, and stop blaming the weather.”

Is there one winter wellness habit that people massively overcomplicate? blushmagazine.org.uk

up, and get your vitamin D sorted, but if you are sleeping five hours and hoping a sachet will save you, the maths does not work.”

If someone could only commit to three things this winter, what would make the biggest difference?

1 “Breathwork. People think it requires a mat, a class, an hour, and a certain kind of trousers. It does not. If you are stressed, breathe in through your nose for four and out slowly for six or eight, like you are breathing out through a straw, five or six rounds. “That is it, and it works because a long exhale is the brake on your stress response. You can do it in the car outside the office party, or at your desk at four in the afternoon when the dark has got to you, and nobody will know you are doing it. “The version you actually do beats the perfect version you never get round to.”

What’s one thing most people think is helping their immune system in colder months that actually isn’t? “Throwing a mega-dose of vitamin C at it the moment they feel a tickle. The research on this is not kind. For most people, loading up on vitamin C once symptoms start does very little, and taking huge amounts routinely does not stop you catching things either. “Meanwhile, the thing that genuinely supports your immune function is sitting right there, and everybody ignores it - which is sleep. A run of short nights does more damage to your defences than any supplement will undo. So by all means keep your nutrients topped

Morning daylight: Get outside within an hour of waking, whatever the weather. It sets your body clock, which sets your energy throughout the day and your sleep that night. In a dark season, it is the single highest-return thing you can do for free.

Keep a consistent wake time: Same time every day - weekends included. Everything downstream of your body clock runs better when it is not being shunted around every few days, and it’s more the reason people feel worse in January than the mince pies ever were.

Protein and resistance training: Get proper protein into your first meal and keep lifting something heavy two or three times per week. It protects the muscle you would otherwise quietly lose over winter, and muscle is what keeps your metabolism, your blood sugar, and your resilience where you want them as you age. None of that is exotic, and none of it costs much. That is rather the point. Winter does not need a new gadget; it needs the basics done consistently in the season when they are hardest to do.

Follow Gary on Instagram @garybrecka

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A BETTER YOU: MICRONUTRIENT-MAXXING

This winter, it’s not about eating less - it’s about getting more from what’s on your plate

HROUGHOUT the colder months, we have one priority and one priority only when it comes to wellness: Actually staying well. And before New Year fad diet culture kicks in, we’re looking at how we can optimise what we’re already doing to reap the long-term benefits.

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Now, a new trend could change the way we approach winter - and it may even shape our habits well into 2027: micronutrient-maxxing. Inspired by the ever-growing “maxxing” trend (the idea of going all-in on something), the concept encourages us to look beyond the surface of our diets and focus on what our food can truly do for our bodies. While calorie counting often takes

a back seat during the autumn and winter months, a new focus is emerging: understanding the nutrients within our meals on a more granular level, the role they play in helping us optimise our bodies, and how we can use them to support our health from the inside-out. “Micronutrient-maxxing is really just a new name for something we should always have been doing: choosing food for what it actually contains, not just how many calories it has”, explains Nicky Boland, Senior Food Technologist at Prep Kitchen.

“MICRONUTRIENTMAXXING IS REALLY JUST A NEW NAME FOR SOMETHING WE SHOULD ALWAYS HAVE BEEN DOING: CHOOSING FOOD FOR WHAT IT ACTUALLY CONTAINS” “People have spent years optimising their macros as well as tracking protein and carbs, but, somehow, largely ignore the vitamins and minerals that determine how well everything else actually works. That’s starting to change.” She continues: “Micronutrients are the vitamins and minerals the body needs to function - not for energy like carbohydrates or protein - but for everything that happens behind the scenes: immune defence, hormone production, bone strength, nerve signalling, mood regulation, and sleep quality.” “Fatigue, poor skin, low immunity, and brain fog can all be common signs that your body is lacking in certain nutrients. What’s more, the foods you’re eating may have more benefits than you think. By hyperfocusing on nutrition, making choices around what to eat (and enjoy!) suddenly becomes a whole lot less complicated. “The body cannot produce most micronutrients on its own”, Nicky adds of why this trend can be so beneficial. “They have to come from food. That’s why food quality, not just its calorie count, matters.”

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7 KEY MICRONUTRIENTS TO ‘MAXX’ ON RIGHT NOW: 1. IRON: Why it matters: Carries oxygen around the body via red blood cells. Low iron equals fatigue, poor concentration, weakened immunity. Iron deficiency is the most common nutritional deficiency in the UK, especially in women. Found in: Beef, pork, fish, dark, leafy greens, lentils. Animal sources are absorbed more efficiently, and eating vitamin C alongside plant-based iron significantly boosts absorption.

2. ZINC Why it matters: Critical for immune function, wound healing, and protein synthesis. Particularly important for anyone training regularly; intense exercise depletes zinc stores fast.

Found in: Wholegrains, legumes, dark leafy vegetables, fish, nuts, seeds.

4. CALCIUM Why it matters: Beyond bones, calcium is essential for muscle contraction, nerve signalling, and heart function. Most people think of dairy and stop there - but it’s far more widely-available than that. Found in: Dairy, halloumi, tinned fish with bones, tofu, broccoli, fortified plant milks.

5. FOLATE (VITAMIN B9) Why it matters: Essential for DNA production, red blood cell formation, and mood regulation via serotonin. Known for its role in pregnancy but important for everyone; low folate is linked to fatigue and low mood. Found in: Spinach, kale, lentils, chickpeas, broccoli, asparagus, eggs.

6. VITAMIN B12 Why it matters: Essential for energy metabolism, nerve function, and red blood cell production. One of the most common causes of persistent fatigue when deficient. The body can’t make it; it must come from diet. Vegans and vegetarians are most at risk of deficiency. Found in: Beef, chicken, pork, fish, eggs, dairy. Almost absent from plant foods; nutritional yeast and fortified products are the main alternatives.

7. VITAMIN C Why it matters: Antioxidant, immune supporter, collagen builder, and iron absorption booster. The body can’t store it, so consistent daily intake matters. Also depleted rapidly by stress. Found in: Red and yellow peppers, tomatoes, broccoli, citrus, berries. Cooking reduces vitamin C content, so ingredient quality and preparation method make a real difference.

Found in: Beef, pork, chicken, fish, shellfish, pumpkin seeds, legumes.

3. MAGNESIUM Why it matters: Involved in over 600 processes in the body, from energy production to muscle recovery, blood sugar regulation, and sleep. Stress, alcohol, and processed food all deplete it. One of the most talked-about minerals in wellness right now - and for good reason.

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IT’S TIME WE SPOKE ABOUT PMOS Following a year of milestone moments for female health, this is everything you need to know about the metabolic condition affecting 1 in 8

ARLIER this year, it was announced that Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) would be renamed Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome (PMOS), and that the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) was finally urging faster diagnosis and better monitoring for the condition. It may seem like a minor change on the surface, but it marked a milestone for the 170 million women around the globe living with it - and hopefully the

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beginning of better research and care. Until now, the healthcare space has often honed in on the ‘cystic’ aspect of the condition, with part of the diagnostic criteria focused on ‘cysts’ on the ovaries (which, as it turns out, aren’t cysts at all, but rather underdeveloped eggs). Other symptoms of the condition can include insulin resistance, excess body hair, depression, fatigue, and hair thinning or loss; many of which have typically been overlooked due to the nature of the condition’s name. That means that delays in diagnosis

or misdiagnosis altogether have become commonplace, and for many women, they’ve been left managing their symptoms alone. So, whether you’re questioning if you could be affected by PMOS, want to support a friend, or get clued up on what help’s available, we sat down with Caroline Andrews, a trustee at leading charity Verity, to answer your burning questions.

Just how big of a deal is the name change from PCOS to PMOS? “The name change from PCOS to PMOS is genuinely significant, but its power is in reframing understanding, rather than changing anything overnight. “The new name, Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome, or PMOS, puts the hormonal and metabolic reality of the condition front and centre, where it belongs and where it should have always been.”

Should you expect your next GP appointment to feel different? “Honestly, no — not immediately (although some people are reporting very different experiences with their GP already, and people that have been unable to get a diagnosis are now being diagnosed). “This is a long-term win. It’s the foundation that better research, better guidelines, better pathways and better conversations get built on. It’s also worth knowing that during a three-

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year transition period, PCOS and PMOS will be used alongside each other - so people should not be alarmed if their GP or medical records still show the old name for now.”

What needs to change in treatment? “Right now, treatment is largely about managing individual symptoms rather than treating the condition as a whole - so someone might be given one thing for their periods, something else for skin or hair, and something else again if they’re trying to conceive. “PMOS raises the risk of the very conditions that qualify people for NHS-funded GLP-1s - type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and hypertension - yet PMOS itself often doesn’t meet the access criteria.”

weight, and none of those conversations connect. That fragmentation means the underlying condition can go unrecognised for years, with each symptom managed in isolation while the whole picture is missed. “There is also a more uncomfortable truth: the education that doctors receive on women’s health - and on this condition specifically - is woefully inadequate relative to how common it is. “Put all of that together and it’s not unusual for people to spend years, and multiple appointments before they get an answer.”

What are the biggest misconceptions around PMOS? “The biggest, by a mile, is the idea that it’s about cysts. It isn’t. What shows up on a scan are follicles - eggs whose development has been disrupted by a hormone imbalance. They don’t fill with fluid, they don’t burst, and they aren’t the ovarian cysts people picture. In fact, having PMOS doesn’t increase your risk of true ovarian cysts at all. The old name planted that confusion, and it’s remarkably persistent.”

Why do so many people experience delays in diagnosis? “Several things stack up. The symptoms are varied and don’t look the same in everyone, so the condition can present quite differently from one person to the next. Many symptoms - irregular periods, tiredness, skin changes, weight changes - get treated in isolation or dismissed as something to just put up with. People are very often told their symptoms are down to their weight, which closes down the conversation before the underlying condition is even considered. “Part of the problem is structural. PMOS is a condition that sits across multiple specialities - endocrinology, cardiology, dermatology, mental health, gynaecology, primary care - and our health systems aren’t set up to join those dots. Someone might see a GP about their periods, a dermatologist about their skin, and a dietitian about their

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“PMOS IS A MEDICAL CONDITION, NOT A WILLPOWER PROBLEM, AND NO AMOUNT OF LIFESTYLE CHANGE SUBSTITUTES FOR PROPER DIAGNOSIS” How does the condition affect people beyond fertility? “Enormously, and this is really the heart of why the name needed to change. Fertility is one part of the picture, but PMOS is a hormonal and metabolic condition that touches the whole body. “It can affect skin and hair, energy levels, mood and mental health, and long-term metabolic health. The mental health impact is significant and should not be underestimated — PMOS is associated with higher rates of depression, anxiety and eating disorders, and research points to increased rates

of suicidality among those living with the condition. Much of this is tied to the experience of managing a chronic, often-dismissed condition, as well as the visible symptoms - excess hair, hair loss, skin changes - that can profoundly affect self-esteem.”

How do you have a difficult conversation with a healthcare provider if you feel you’re not being taken seriously? “First, know that you’re entitled to be taken seriously — feeling dismissed is common, and it isn’t a reflection on you. Practically, it helps to go in prepared: jot down your main symptoms and how long they’ve been going on, and be specific about how they’re affecting your daily life. “Ask direct questions and ask for them to be noted — what’s being ruled in, what’s being ruled out, and what the next step is. If you’d find it easier, take someone with you. And if you still feel unheard, you’re within your rights to ask for a second opinion or a referral. Persistence isn’t being difficult; it’s advocating for your own health, and it’s often what gets people the answers they’ve been waiting for.”

Is there anything we can do ourselves to help with symptoms? “Some people do find that supporting their general wellbeing - things like sleep, managing stress, and finding movement they genuinely enjoy helps them feel better day to day. But I’d want to be careful here, because lifestyle advice is too often handed to people with PMOS as if it’s a cure - or worse - as if their symptoms are their own fault. Neither is true. “PMOS is a medical condition, not a willpower problem, and no amount of lifestyle change substitutes for proper diagnosis, monitoring, and clinical care. What actually helps is individualised support — working with a healthcare professional to find what’s realistic and right for you, without shame. If there’s one thing I’d want a reader to take away, it’s that they deserve care that treats the condition seriously, whatever their lifestyle looks like.” For more information, visit verity-pcos.org.uk

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IT’S ABOUT TIME WE STARTED TALKING S*** - NO, SERIOUSLY Joely WalkerSanderson and Holly Brooke are reinventing the way we talk about bowel health

HEN was the last time you found yourself chatting s*** with your friends? We don’t mean the kind that delves deep into the lore of your former school classmates - or how your eye-roll-worthy ex is handling the breakup - but rather, what our bathroom habits are really telling us about our health. It’s a conversation being opened up by Joely Walker-Sanderson and Holly Brooke, the founders of We Are Regular, the allin-one bowel and bloat relief supplement we’ve all quietly been longing for. Poo is no longer taboo around here. Particularly as we move into party season, we’re all likely to get less sleep, more hangovers, and trade green juices for post-night-out Deliveroo orders. For our bodies, however, it’s a one-way, firstclass ticket to Bloat City. Let’s be honest, nobody wants that when they’ve got an LBD to squeeze into, do they? Similarly, we all have a story about taking a holiday and finding it impossible

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shoulders - I just knew that something wasn’t right”, she tells us. “I wasn’t operating at my best self; I was feeling pretty subpar, and my brain fog was really bad. I know that there are millions of women out there who also feel tired too.” The duo recall, who are proud advocates of “fart walks” (that’s a

to use the bathroom, making those extra gym classes in the lead-up nothing but a total waste of time, if it’s abs you’re after. But, as it would turn out, our bowel health has a far bigger impact on the way our bodies function beyond the bathroom - from hormones, to how we perform every day.

“WHEN YOU ARE PHYSICALLY CARRYING AROUND S*** BECAUSE YOU’RE CONSTIPATED, METAPHORICALLY, YOU ALSO FEEL WEIGHED DOWN” For Holly, it involved years of taking 30 daily supplements in a bid to relieve her chronic constipation, spending thousands on appointments and treatments in search of answers. When she turned 30 and opted to have her fertility tested, she’d go on to discover her estrogen was “through the roof” - which she claims doctors directly linked to the lack of hormones being excreted from her body. “As women, we carry so much on our

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how we want to live”, they continue. “Just listen to your body; our guts are so unique.” Instead, we should focus on getting enough sleep to recharge, paying closer attention to our cycles (yes, they can affect gut health too), and, frankly, giving ourselves a little more grace to stack the small habits without compromising our fun.

10-minute stomp around the block after eating to let it all out, if you catch our drift), ironically met in a nightclub bathroom. Joely went on to become a familiar face in the beauty space, having been Beauty Director at Grazia, while Holly held a senior commercial role at Caroline Hirons’ skincare empire, Skin Rocks. The truly defining bond they shared, however, was their turbulent bathroom habits. “When you’re in a group, everybody has a funny poo story”, Joely affirms. “For us, we really believe in the power of laughter, especially when you’re talking about something that could be perceived as quite shame-inducing - you have to be able to laugh about it because that’s how you break down walls.” Researchers are already deep into exploring the gut-brain axis (or the idea that our gut health directly impacts our mental health), and now, more studies are emerging on the rise of chronic inflammation and disease where our gut is concerned. In the wellness space, our guts are a bigger talking point than ever before. We Are Regular’s ‘Bowel + Bloat Relief’, which comes in a handy stick formula, has already swept the floor at industry awards this year, having just launched in Boots, and contains 10 targeted ingredients to relieve constipation and bloating for what they’ve dubbed “the perfect poo” - no harsh laxatives in sight. 79 per cent of consumers reported having a ‘satisfying poo’ within just 24 hours. “When we did our consumer trial, one of our participants - a mother of two - told us, ‘I haven’t done four workouts in a week in years’”, Joely and Holly tell

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“THERE’S SO MUCH EMBARRASSMENT AROUND SOMETHING THAT EVERY SINGLE PERSON ON THIS PLANET DOES”

us. “When you are physically carrying around s*** because you’re constipated, metaphorically, you also feel weighed down.” It couldn’t have come at a better time, as our routines go off-kilter and our social calendars begin to fill up once more, too. “Alcohol, ultra-processed foods, and stress are three of the biggest contributing factors towards poor gut health”, the pair note. “Try and avoid doing all three in one go - that’s definitely going to have a bigger impact on your gut than you think.” “We all know alcohol is not good for you, but we’re also women in our 30s! It’s unrealistic for us to sit here and say ‘never drink again’ - that’s not how people live, or

“Take five minutes out of your day to ask yourself, ‘Am I regular? When did I last poo?’” they add. “It’s such a simple question, and it tells you so much. Beyond bloating, We Are Regular is now an official partner of Bowel Cancer UK, encouraging people to pay closer attention not just to how often they’re using the bathroom, but to the quality of their poos. “You can be pooing daily but you could be having rabbit droppings; that’s not the goal”, Holly concludes. The brand has instead reinvented the Bristol Stool Chart in a slightly more digestible format (pardon the pun): With food. From Maltesers to French baguettes, we can now size up our toilet habits in a way that feels free from embarrassment. “Nobody talks about poo in the way that we wanted to, and we not only want to break down boundaries, but also just empower people”, she adds. “We don’t understand why there’s so much embarrassment around something that every single person on this planet does. Some of us just want to do it more, and some of us want to do it better.” So, whether you’re escaping the cold or simply getting ready to hit the dance floor in the months ahead, a happier gut might just be the companion you didn’t know you needed this winter and beyond. We Are Regular is now available to buy in Boots UK

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FOUR TO FOLLOW

On Instagram

Jenny Tsang @tsangtastic

One of social media’s chicest faces, Jenny Tsang, is a staple follow for anyone looking to revamp their wardrobe this Autumn/Winter. When she’s not hanging out at Gucci or Prada during Fashion Week, she’s responsible for some of Instagram’s most easy-to-recreate, effortlessly cool looks; whether heading to the airport, hitting the slopes, or diving head-first into party season.

The incredible women to have

Instagram @tsang

tastic

on your radar (and feed) right now

On Spotify

@Maisiehpeters

Fresh off the back of her third album, English singersongwriter, Maisie Peters, is only just getting the flowers she deserves. Her latest album Florescence “reflects on how the right love can help heal the wrong ones”, and blends pop and folk with her signature chilledout sound. Think of it as your new soundtrack for cooking your favourite dinner, or kicking back on the sofa with a good book. Now Playing: ‘If You Let Me’ (With Marcus Mumford)

@skndoctor

Whether it’s the high-maintenance treatments we need to stay lowmaintenance, the unsexy skincare products to keep us feeling sexy, or the expensive buys that are actually worth the splurge - Dr Ewoma is our woman. The award-winning cosmetic doctor is putting her biggest beauty secrets on proud display for us all to learn from, with strictly no gatekeeping. Class is in session.

BLUSH | W I N T E R 2 0 2 6

Instagra

Dr Ewoma

ghe aukele omCredit: Emma McEvoy m @drew

On TikTok

Instagram @elizabday

Instagram @Maisiehpeters

Maisie Peters

For podcasts

Elizabeth Day @howtofailpod

We’re all so ambitious that, sometimes - when things don’t go quite right - it can feel like a big deal. How To Fail is all about celebrating our biggest, juiciest fails (and what we learnt from them along the way), to help those moments feel a little less heavy. Expect celebrity guests sharing the details of their most unapologetic flops, including Emilia Clarke, Emma Grede, and Stanley Tucci.

blushmagazine.org.uk

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BLUSH Magazine - Autumn/Winter 2026