Valentine’s Day is one of the most anticipated holidays of the year. For a short time, we are given the opportunity to remind our loved ones how much they mean to us. This can come in many forms, from friendships to family relationships and romantic partners. It doesn’t matter who you’re celebrating with , Valentine’s is a chance to make memories that will last a lifetime. So, where will you go this year?

Here, we will explore five of the most romantic cities to visit the Valentine’s Day. To decide this, we have created an index that utilises data from TripAdvisor on romantic hotels and restaurants. We have combined this Google Search Data around proposals in each city, yearly and per capita. An overall score will then be given to each city.

1 . Inverness, Scotland

Overall score: 73.82

The most romantic city around to our index is none other than Inverness. A stunning city in the North of Scotland, visitors can immerse themselves in a romantic holiday in the highlands. It doesn’t matter where you’re from in the nation you’ve probably heard of the Loch Ness monster. Well, Inverness is home to so much more than the rivers Ness , including an abundance of romantic resultants and hotels.

In fact, this city scored a perfect 100 on restaurant and a respectable 58.05 on hotels. In addition to this, the average number of searches for proposals scored 63.04. Considering Inverness is home to the River Ness, this could be the ideal location to pop the question.

2  . London, England

Overall: 65.26

If the Scottish highland isn’t representative of your personality, consider escaping to London this Valentine’s day. Whether you’re planning to dine on rooftop terraces or explore the iconic streets of Notting Hill, make sure you prepare for any weather and pack a designer umbrella or two, Then, whatever the weather, you will be ready for any photo opportunity .

We’re not surprised to see London on our list of romantic cities. After all, it is the capital of England! The location scored high on each of our categories, including a perfect 100 in romantic hotels. If you’re struggle to choose between the sheer number of establishments on offer, Hotel 41 is rated the most romantic hotel on TripAdvisor.

3. Leeds, England 

Overall score: 50.17

Next on our list of romantic cities is Leeds, the heart of Yorkshire. This North-eastern city transports lovers into a concrete jungle. So, if this is your preference, Leeds might be the place for you to visit the Valentine’s Day. There will be no shortage of things to do and places to celebrate in this city.

Leeds is full of tasty treats. According to our index, this city scored 79.95 on romantic restaurants. From Mediterranean to Indian cuisine, there are lots of place to share a meal this year. As well as this, the prices are quite affordable. The average price of a 3-course meal for you and your partner is £50- even cheaper than Inverness!

4. Norwich, England

Overall score: 47.12

What this location lacks in size, it makes up for in character. The quaint city is deal is ideal for people who want to escape the city. The Saxon buildings and picturesque canals are enough to ignite any romance. So, this might be the right location for you.

Similar to Leeds, Norwich scored 82.80 on romantic restaurants. This is considerably high for a location of its size. If you’ve ever explored this city, however, this won’t come as a surprise. The winding streets are full of cosy places to dine in, including the renowned Brasted’s.

5. Dundee, Scotland

Overall score: 47.11

Last on our list romantic cities is Dundee. This beautiful city in the East of Scotland is by no means the least, however. The stunning water views and mountain ranges make Dundee a city to see this Valentine’s Day. After all, such as the mesmerising Lunan Bay and Brought Ferry.

These are the five most romantic cities in the UK. Our index, which to this conclusion using data from TripAdvisor and Good Searches, was made to inspire your romantic holiday this Valentine’s Day. It only happens once a year, so we recommend making the most out of it. Which city will you visit in 2022?

Sources

https://www.highland.gov.uk/highlandar/TheLochNessMonster

https://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Restaurants-g186411-zfp3-Leeds_West_Yorkshire_England.html

https://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Hotels-g186338-zff3-London_England-Hotels.html

https://www.numbeo.com/cost-of-living/in/Leeds

https://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Restaurant_Review-g1599540-d1891552-Reviews-Brasteds-Framingham_Pigot_Norwich_Norfolk_East_Anglia_England.html

https://www.thehideawayexperience.co.uk/beaches

Whether you love it or hate it, sport is here to stay. From football to tennis, these events bring people together from all walks of life. What could be better?

Here, we will dive into some of the most anticipated sporting events in 2022. There are lots to look out for, and this blog is a great place to start.

The Winter Olympics ( February 2022)

The first major sporting event of the year is the Winter Olympics. This brings together 95 nations to compete in a number of athletic tasks , from figure skating to snowboarding. In 2022, the Winter Olympics will be held and celebrated in Beijing, China. And the fun doesn’t stop there- keep your eyes peeled for the Winter Paralympic Game in March.

Six Nations Rugby Championship (February- March 2022)

Next on our list of watch-worthy sporting events is the Six Nations from February to March, Scotland, Italy, France, Wales, Ireland, and England come together to battle for the rugby championship of the year. Over 8.6 millions people watched the 2021 finale, so we’re expecting Six Nations 2022 to be an absolute hit this year.

Six Nations is a monumental event to mark on your calendar. There will be five rounds, each consisting of three action-packed matches. The first begins on Saturday 5th February and the games will last until Saturday 19th March. Which team are you rooting for?

Women’s Cricket World Cup (March- April 2022)

Cricket is a cracking sport. In particular, Women’s cricket is becoming a huge sporting event to look out for.  In 2021, the Hundred attracted over 1.9 million viewers. Considering this, we can only expect the very best from the Women’s Cricket World Cup in 2022. One to remember, this tournament will be hosted by New Zealand between 4th March and 3rd April.

The Wimbledon Championships (June-July 2022)

Whether you’re a tennis enthusiast or not, you’ve probably heard of Wimbledon. In 2021, the Grand Slam was streamed over 75 million on BBC iPlayer. Some of the most high-profile celebrities and sports stars attend this event every year. And if you look through the crowd, you’re likely to see a member of the British Royal Family.

Wimbledon is an excuse to eat fresh strawberries and sip a refreshing Pimms. What could be more quintessentially British? If you’re planning doing this and relaxing in the sun, remember to pack a sport umbrella and apply sun cream. Even the English sun can leave us feeling burnt.

Tour de France ( July 2022)

The Tour de France is another major sporting event of the year. The Big Loop takes cycling fans across awe-inspiring mountain ranges, including the Vosges and the Hautacam. As picturesque as the sounds, the Tour de France is an extreme test of endurance, as cyclists race for three race for three weeks.

Considering this, we can see why the 2021 event attracted 150 million viewers in Europe.

London Marathon ( October 2022)

The London Marathon is one of the best events in England, if we do say so ourselves. Since 1981, the race has raised an astonishing £1 billion for charities such British Heart Foundation.

Professional athletes and amateur runners compete alongside each other to complete the 26.2-mile feat and reach the finish line. This encourages their loved one to donate to their chosen charity. Do you know someone competing in the 2021 London Marathon?

The FIFA World Cup (November-December 2022)

We can’t explore the best sporting events of 2022 without mentioning the FIFA Would Cup. This year, the tournament will be hosted by Qatar. As the country has extremely hot weather, we will have to wait to watch this football occasion until winter. We know this year will be one to remember, and England has automatically qualified for the tournament. So, 2022 will go out with a celebration.

There are lots of sporting events to look out for in 2022. Sports is for everyone, so there is bound to be something for you. These tournaments are an excuse to spend time with your love ones and take some time to relax this year. Which event are you most excited to watch?

Sources

https://www.bbc.co.uk/newsround/59051282

England v Scotland Six Nations clash peaks at 8.7m on ITV

Study: Female audiences up for The Hundred

https://www.bbc.co.uk/mediacentre/2021/bbc-scores-with-euro-2020-wimbledon#:~:text=The%20tournament%20overall%20saw%20a,the%20most%20streamed%20Wimbledon%20ever.
https://www.statista.com/statistics/268024/riders-of-the-tour-de-france-with-most-tour-appearances/
https://www.britannica.com/sports/London-Marathon
https://www.skysports.com/football/news/12098/12354033/world-cup-2022-dates-draw-schedule-kick-off-times-final-for-qatar-tournament

Fashion Royalty: How to Dress like the Duchess of Cambridge

The British royal family always dress to impress. Kate Middleton, a graceful and elegant English Rose, is the perfect example of fashion royalty in our contemporary society. Whether she attends a charitable event in tennis shoes or a cocktail soiree in stilettos, the Duchess of Cambridge is sure to make a lasting impression.

This blog will explore some of the ways you can borrow from the Duchess of Cambridge, whether it chic shoes, designer umbrellas, or divine dresses.

Chic shoes

Shoes are an integral part of any outfit. The right pair can drastically change your look from causal to formal. If anybody in the royal family understands the power of footwears, it has to be Kate. She is recognized as having an extensive shoe collection, and we can’t get enough of it! She looks stunning in everything from heels to pumps and wedges.

Who said chic can’t be comfortable?

To truly dress like the Duchess, embrace the possibilities of comfortable shoes that are kind to both your feet and the environment. Kate has been known to re-wear her favourite outfits, and she often chooses to sport sustainable trainers. Considering her philanthropic nature, we wouldn’t expect anything less from future Queen Consort of England. So, take a leaf out of the royal pamphlet and be environmentally conscious of your fashion choices.

Designer umbrellas

British weather is unpredictable. From the heights of Scotland to the coasts of Cornwall, rain can fall and soak Brits at any given moment. To prepare for the skips to open , the royal family can always be seen boasting an array of designer umbrellas. 

The Duchess of Cambridge is no exception to this.

If you want to manifest Kate’s style, there are plenty of chic umbrellas you can choose from. More than anything, remember to have fun. Try not to shy away from exuberant colour and whimsical designs. Whether she holds a rainbow umbrella at Kensington Palace or a bubble umbrella on the red carpet, Kate understands how to matches this accessory with any outfit.

Divine dresses

Dresses may be the most elegant item of clothing in our wardrobes. From the queens of antiquity to the princess we know and love today, the royal family are renowned for their lavish gowns. The contemporary dresses Kate wears may be more sleek and simple that the silk gowns of the Elizabeth era, but they’re just as exquisite.

Everyone can look as divine as Kate. To start, wear silhouettes that compliment your shape and floral design that brighten even the greyest of days. It’s  that simple!

We can’t explore Kate Middleton’s fashion sense without mentioning her famous wedding dress. A heavenly sight of white lace, this dress continues to inspire brides-to-be long after 2011. To mirror this regal style, embrace classic A-line silhouettes and a sophisticated lace shrug.

Kate Middleton is the embodiment of fashion royalty-literally. People all over the world aspire to dress as lovely as the Duchess. if you want to dress like her, opt for items that prioritise comfort, sustainability, individuality, and sophistication. How will you channel this style icon?

Source

https://www.cosmopolitan.com/uk/fashion/celebrity/g4618/kate-middleton-shoes-pumps-wedges/?slide=44https://www.vogue.co.uk/news/article/kate-middleton-sustainable-veja-sneakershttps://www.townandcountrymag.com/society/tradition/g26719325/royal-family-umbrella-rain-photos/https://www.womanandhome.com/fashion/kate-middleton-s-dresses-the-duchess-s-go-to-fashion-brands-for-dresses/https://www.cheatsheet.com/entertainment/kate-middleton-wedding-dress-is-still-inspiring-brides.html/

A city with the aesthetic of a twee town, Oxford is famous across the globe. Whether you’re from the UK or visiting from abroad, you’ve probably heard of this tourist hotspot in southeast England. While Oxford is renowned for its university, there is so much to this place for you to go and see for yourself.

From scenic strolls to river rowing, here is everything you should do in Oxford. The potential for fun stretches far beyond the list, but it’s definitely a great place to start.

Explore the campus of the University of Oxford

One of the best things to do in Oxford s to take a scenic stroll. The charming city is filled with stunning architecture, including the famous campus at the University of Oxford. People from all over the world aspire to study here. If you’re eager to find out why, remember to pack a clear umbrella when you explore the campus. That way, come rain or shine, you can admire the charming historical building.

The fun doesn’t stop there! You might recognize the magical halls from the Harry Potter movies. In fact, Harry’s visit to the Hogwart’s infirmary in The Philosopher’s Stone was filmed at the Divinity School in Bodleian Library. Can you think of anything more quintessentially British?

Drink and eat like an Englishman

There can only be one thing more English than Harry Potter: drinking tea and eating scones. Visit some the finest establishments Oxford has to offer and indulge in traditional treats. The Grand Cafe’ is famous for its afternoon tea, which features a decadent of sweet  jam and clotted cream. Our tastebuds are dancing at the thought!

Row down the River Cherwell

Before you sit down to enjoy a delicious afternoon tea, you might want to build up an appetite. To do this , you can try punting down the River Cherwell, a traditional pastime in Oxford. Considering the picturesque waterways, it’s easy to see why.

Rowing down the waters on a crisp early morning is a great way to start the day. If you’d rather take part in river after lunch, you can dock beside one of the rustic pubs and enjoy Oxford in the evening. Whether you’re an early bird or a night owl, Oxford’s are the place to unwind.

Visit a world-class museum

Whether you’re an academic or not, you’re sure to have a great time at the Oxford University Museum of Natural History. Home to the skull of a Dodo, this is the only place in the world you can see the remains of this long-extinct animal. So, it will definitely be a unique visit.

Enjoy the view atop Carfax Tower

You can’t visit Oxford without seeing a panoramic view of the olde city, To see the breathtaking views for yourself, climb up to the top of Carfax Tower, which once stood as part of St. Martin’s Church (1122-1896). It’s only 99 steps, so it’s well worth making the climb to see the landscape around Oxford.

Oxford has something for everyone. If you’re an aspiring academic or a film enthusiast, the University campus is the place for you. Although, the serenity of the river Cherwell is enough to make anyone post a picture on Instagram. You can always dive into English culture and taste a proper brew alongside sweet treats too.  And, if all else fails, the museums and historical architecture offer enough history and culture to satisfy any old soul. So, what will you do in Oxford?

 

Sources

Oxford Harry Potter Locations: A Self-Guided Tour

The Best Afternoon Teas in Oxford for a Very British Treat

Punting in Oxford: An Insider’s Guide

https://warwick.ac.uk/research/rtp/ct/casestudies/casestudy2/

https://www.experienceoxfordshire.org/venue/carfax-tower/

Is London one of the most amazing cities in the world? There is no doubt about it. From monuments and museums to shops, parks, and trendy locals, there is always something for everyone to enjoy.

You can attend tear-jerking  laugh-out-loud theatre production in the West End. You can travel back in time by stepping inside old castles and towers , making your way through dark dungeons and regal rooms. Or you can even snoop around the house of one of the most popular detectives in the history of literature. We’re talking of course, about the and only Sherlock Holmes, Elementary, dear Watson.

There are infinite activities and attractions that make London truly special. But, as it’s such a big, frenzied metropolis, it conceals an array of unique hidden gems that inevitably miss out on the love and admiration they deserve.

Fancy discovering our capital’s beautiful ‘secret’ locations? We have listed a number of lesser-known places that you may want to add your London itinerary.

A quiet oasis: St Dunstan in the East 

Just a stone’s  throw away from Tower Hill and Monument tube stations, St Dunstan in the East is a clam and evocative oasis in the heart of the capital. With an atmospheric fountain within its ruins and luxuriant greenery draping its walls, this ancient church should definitely be on your must-see agenda.

Built in the early 12th century, the building has a troubled and unfortunate history. From the Great Fire of London in 1666 to the World War II Blitz in 1941, the church has been severely damaged over the years. Now, it has become a peaceful garden with stunning vegetation. Why not visit on a gloomy, rainy day? it adds to its fascination and melancholic beauty. Open a clear umbrella and admire its wounded majesty by sitting on a bench or standing in its central nave.

Romantic canals: Little Venice

There is no need to travel abroad to take in some picturesque Italian sights. Close to Warwick Avenue underground station and only a 10-minutes walk from Paddington station, Little Venice s a poetic neighbourhood with a charming waterways and canals.

As you walk amongst vibrant cafes and quirky restaurants, keep your eyes peeled for entertaining puppet shows on boats and enjoy the calmness of the canals. The splendid area is the ideal place for a summer stroll in the sun. Cross its bridges, jump on a boat , and set sail towards London Zoo and Camden Town.

Oriental nature: Kyoto Garden (Holland Park)

Nestled inside Holland Park, a hidden pearl itself, Kyoto Garden is undoubtedly worth a visit. With Japanese maple trees, stones lanterns, tranquil waterfalls, and ponds brimming with koi carps, this oriental-inspired garden gives the park a wonderful, exotic vibe.

Inaugurated in 1991, Kyoto Garden is a present from the city of Kyoto(Japan) to honour the long-lasting friendship between Great Britain and, of course, Japan. Furthermore, it hosts a touching ‘Fukushima Memorial Garden’, which commemorates both British citizen’s solidarity and Japanese people’s gratitude following the natural calamities occurred in 2011.

As for Holland Park, it is a 22-hecture park in West London surrounding the ruins of Holland House, badly damaged n World War II during the infamous 1941 Blitz.

A kaleidoscopic warehouse: God’s Own Junkyard

Do you have a soft spot for Las Vegas and kaleidoscopic lights? Take yourself to Walthamstow, a London hotspot for artists and hipsters, and explore God’s Own Junkyard! Full of neon signs and props, this multicoloured warehouse will make your jaw drop in awe.

Make sure to note down this must-see place on your London bucket list. With blinding, bright objects and figures stacked on the floor and hanging from the ceiling, there are several surprises at every corner. Charge your smartphone and check your storage – you’ll spend hours taking stunning photos.

Very important Pictures: Number 10-  Adam Street 

Want to have your picture taken in front of the Prime Minister’s famous black door?  Want your friends to think that you’ve had important political debates with global leaders in Downing Street? If so, head to Number 10 on Adam Street !

Just a 15-miniute walk from the PM’s guarded home entrance, you can take as many selfies and souvenir photos as you wish. The two front doors may not exactly uncanny, but 10 Adam Street’s main entrance may trick even the most-eagled eyed  followers on your social media.

Why are they so similar? Both built in the late 18th century, they just happen to be two coincidental contemporaries.

Chic dining and shopping: Leadenhall Market

A mere five-minute walk from Monument underground station, Leadenhall Market is a 14th century landmark with gorgeous gold and red architecture. Seriously damaged by Great Fire of London in 1666, it was renovated and is now still going strong.

Originally packed with butchers and fishmongers, this market has become a buzzing, trendy place in which to shop, drink and dine. It was also the shooting location for the wizarding pub in Happy Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone. If you are a cinema lover, why not stop there on your next trip to the capital?

A cultural treat: Sir John Soane’s Museum

London is rich in fascinating art galleries. In this respect, Sir John Soane’s museum is arguably one of the finest public museums the city has to offer. Once the residence of Sir John Soane, architect of the Bank of England, the building has a wonderful collection of over 20,000 art and antique pieces.

Among them are precious masterpieces by Turner and Canaletto.

Additionally, the museum hosts the spectacular Sarcophagus of Egyptian Pharaoh Seti, who passed away in 1297 BC. If you are on the hunt for a cultural treat, Sir John Soane’s Museum is the place to go!

With parks, landmarks, shops, restaurants, and heap of history, London has it all. We hope this list of hidden pearls will help you plan the perfect day out in one of the world’s most beautiful capital cities.

Sources

https://visitlondon.com/things-to-do/sightseeing/london-attraction/top-20-hidden-gemshttps://www.londonxlondon.com/hidden-gems-in-london/https://www.standard.co.uk/reveller/attractions/15-secret-places-you-never-knew-existed-in-london-a3727481.htmlhttps://handluggageonly.co.uk/2015/09/03/15-amazing-secret-spots-you-have-to-see-in-london/https://visitlondon.com/things-to-do/place/401228-little-venicehttps://www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/things-to-do/city-gardens/find-a-garden/st-dunstan-in-the-east-church-gardenhttps://www.atlasobscura.com/places/10-adam-streethttps://www.soane.org/https://www.parkgrandkensington.co.uk/blog/things-to-know-about-kyoto-garden/https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/gods-own-junkyardhttps://www.visitbritain.com/gb/en/leadenhall-market

One of the most anticipated biopic films of 2021, Spencer, hit theatres across the world earlier this month. Kristen Stewart has been lauded for her portrayal of the late princess, but there was something else that caught our attention in the film- the iconic outfits.

The costumes are as accurate as possible to the Princess’s actual wardrobe, according to the film’s costume designer, Jacqueline Durran. She drew on specific looks from a vast library of paparazzi imagery- showing exactly what Diana wore in her day-to-day life. Although the film only follows the Princess over the course of one weekend, the outfits are front and centre.

Were the outfits really true to life? As supplier of ladies’ umbrellas and designer umbrellas to the Royal Family, Fulton umbrellas analysed Princess Diana’s depiction in the film- comparing the most stunning outfits worn in her lifetime.

The visit to Portsmouth

Diana’s renowned engagement ring is a scene-stealer here- did you know it was selected to match her eyes? The ring would later be passed on to Kate Middleton after Diana’s eldest son, Prince William, proposed.

Diana’s outfit here is oh-so-1980s – her cream roll-neck jumper, the tartan blazer with shoulder pads, and pearl jewellery. Representing her desire to be seen, Stewart’s outfit in Spencer is almost a complete replica, showcasing an exciting new chapter in Diana’s life.

The world-famous wedding dress

Diana’s wedding dress is instantly recognisable around the world, and it also marked the era of a new style with its puffed sleeves.

The dress worn is Spencer was designed to match even the smallest of details of the real dress and was designed by husband and wife, Elizabeth and David Emanuel. From 10,000 mother-of-pearl sequins to a 25-foot-long train, the fairytale gown is truly unforgettable. Thankfully, Diana didn’t need a wedding umbrella to keep this stunning dress dry, because it was a pleasant day!

The dress was valued at a relatively modest £9,000 at the time Diana got married, but it’s now thought to be worth closer to £151,000. It is currently on display at Kensington Palace, the home of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and their three children.

Taking the boys to school

As well as showing off Diana’s stunning formal outfits, the movie incorporated her day-to-day routines, and therefore also her dress-down outfits. This includes the laid-back attire sported for the school drop-offs of Prince William and Prince Harry.

Diana was both a trend-setter and a fashion leader, so it’s no surprise that she wore era-appropriate boxy bomber jackets and straight-leg jeans. Some may say it also foreshadowed her future decision to give up the royal title.

The informal style was hugely popular in the early 1990s, and Dianna definitely helped cement it as a style staple. There has also been a resurgence of this trend in more recent years too, as we lean into nostalgic fashion trends.

Christmas Day

This outfit is believed to be an interpretation of Diana’s iconic Christmas look in 1993, even though film focuses on Diana’s 1991 Christmas trip to Sandringham.

The scene depicts the Christmas morning service at St. Mary Magdalene, which the Royal Family attended. We see Kristen Stewart’s Diana in a black hat with a veil, a roll-neck jumper, and a bright red coat.

Apart from the addition of the pussy-bow necktie, this outfit is pretty accurate. In the ’70s and ’80s, this was seen as a symbol of feminism, marking the beginning of the power suit era.

It’s been hotly debated whether this outfit was a power statement or a cry for help. Many suggest wearing red gives the impression of wanting attention, so this outfit may have predicted the return of Princess Diana’s confidence.

The Pearl Scene

We all know Diana loved pearls, and they adored her outfits regularly. But, in Spencer, they were used in a strange fashion.

During a tense Christmas dinner with the Royal Family, Spencer shows Diana eating, or at least imagining herself eating, the necklace of pearls given to her as a gift from Prince Charles.

It’s been revealed that this outfit isn’t entirely true to life. The pearls in Spencer seem to have been made bigger for dramatic effect. Kristen Stewart brought Diana’s subconscious and imaginative fantasies to live by spending hours researching and studying her.

The designers on Spencer exaggerated or built upon some of Diana’s outfit for dramatic outfit, but many outfits were true-to-life replicas. The personality traits of Diana also played huge role in these choices and gave the movie a hand to hold in the interpretation of one of the most iconic names in history.

If you’ve been inspired by Spencer to indulge in Diana-inspired fashion, why not pick up a birdcage umbrella or sports umbrella to go with your sporty bomber jackets?

 

Sources

https://graziadaily.co.uk/beauty-hair/hair/kristen-stewart-as-princess-diana-hair/https://futuretechtrends.co.uk/2021/06/24/princess-diana-wedding-dress-designers-cost-train-length-and-back-up-gown-explained/https://www.harpersbazaar.com/culture/film-tv/a35969869/kristen-stewart-princess-diana-jeans-spencer/https://www.mirror.co.uk/3am/celebrity-news/kristen-stewart-morphs-princess-diana-23395043https://hellowhitney.com/color-red/https://ew.com/movies/spencer-kristen-stewart-reveals-secret-eating-giant-pearls/

There were many things we were taught as children that didn’t really pan out in our adult life. You need to go to university to get a good job. Pink and dresses are for girls, not for boys.

But as we’ve grown up, we’ve realised that these ‘rules’ are made to be broken. Why should colours be limited to one gender? And who’s to say men can’t look amazing in more feminine attire? We’ve seen countless celebrities break the mould once again in recent times, from Lil Nas X to Cara Delevigine.

The early days of gender-fluid fashion

Right now, a lot of celebrities are defying gendered boundaries with their clothing, We’ve seeing this particularly amongst young male celebrities, with Harry Styles, Lil Nas X, and Troye Sivan leading the way. But the history of gender-fluid fashion goes back much further, Before Harry Styles, we had David Bowie on stage in flowy frocks and Prince in a minidress in a Betsey Johnson advert.

Androgynous fashion wasn’t just limited to men either. Grace Jones embraced masculinity in her style, donning power suits with huge shoulder pads and wearing her hair in a conventionally sharp, masculine style. Grace Jones embodied gender ambiguity perfectly, with one commentator remarking that she executed it so well, some people thought she was a drag queen.

Flamboyant gender-fluid fashion defined the 1970s and 1980s, which is when many of us were first introduce to these looks. Princes, David Bowie, and Grace Jones led the way , but Queen, the Cure, Duran Duran, and other groups embraced make-up and feminine style before our icons of today.

While this eras were many people’s first introduction to gender-fluid style, Marlene Dietrich was breaking boundaries back in 1932 with her masculine suits. We know ancient Roman and Egyptian men wore togas and dresses, while Scythian women in Greece wore trousers to fight in wars.

The new era of gender-fluid fashion

After a lull in the 1990s and early 2000s, unisex fashion is back with a bang. Since reaching the height of fame in 2018, Billy Porter has been redefining red carpet fashion, stepping out in everything from oversized pearl necklaces and stunning embroidered capes to his iconic velvet gown and tuxedo combination at the 2019 Academy Awards.

Harry Styles is one of the most talked-about celebrities when it comes to modern androgynous style. His personal style gradually grew more flamboyant throughout the years; his career in One Direction began with skinny jeans and plain tees but progressed to quirky, printed silk shirts before he began to don flowery suits, sequined jumpsuits, and eventually feather boas and dresses. Style proves that you don’t have to wear dresses alone to blur gender boundaries; many of his most iconic outfits feature sheer detailing, sequins, bows, and high-waisted fits that we’d ordinary see on womens.

For women, Zendaya and Kristen Stewart and redefining gender fashion norms. Kristen Stewart embodies what we’ve come to know as “cool girl” style, pairing slim-fit or boxy suits with slicked back, androgynous hairstyle and perfectly smudged eyeliner. Zendaya floats between ultra-feminine and masculine, stepping out in oversized suits and mullets one day, and feathery ballgowns the next.

Why gender-fluid fashion is so positive 

Unisex and gender-fluid fashion removes long-held assumptions about what clothing is appropriate for men and women. No longer are we constrained in the way we express ourselves. We can be experimental and fun with our outfits, how we wear our hair, or even whether we have fun with makeup.

Fashion designer Virgil Abloh, responsible for the couture genderless looks we’ve seen on Kid Cudi,  Lil Nas X, and others, comments: ” For me, it represents personal empowerment despite any social norm. It vehemently represents confidence.”  Billy Porter, meanwhile, believe it’s time to tear down traditional gender norm, especially with regard to men’s fashion : “Women are allowed to be masculine and that’s considered strong and powerful… But when men wears dresses, it’s a thing. I’m over that. We need to shatter that stereotype.”

Fashion brand are sitting up and paying attention. A number of leading designer’s have launched unisex collections recently. London Fashion Week also announced it was going gender neutral in 2021.

Bringing genderless fashion in your style

It you’re never embraced androgynous fashion before, you might be wondering where to start. But it doesn’t have to be daunting, and you don’t have to dress extravagantly as the celebrities leading the way.

Daniel Craig’s pink velvet blazer set tongues wagging when he wore it to No Time to Die premiere, highlighting that playing with colours is still one way you can embrace gender-fluid fashion. Incorporating lighter pastels and bold pinks into your outfit is a good place to start.

Another way to ease into gender-fluid fashion is through your accessories. Gone are the days of handbags and backpacks only being used by women- a crossbody satchel or studded backpack is a fun way to mix up your look. Even something as simple as a colourful designer umbrella elevates your look in a simple, gender-fluid way. Birdcage umbrella are especially chic!

Once you’re comfortable with the basics, think about your silhouettes. This is a key way to embrace genderless fashion- think boxy suits and brogues for women, and ruffles or high-waisted trousers for men. You could even keep your silhouette clean and sleek for a big event while still standing out from the crowd – Troye Sivan proved that in his slim-fit, low-cut black dress at the 2021 Met Gala. Depending on how bold you already are in your sartorial choices, the sky really is the limit.

Gender-fluid fashion is huge right now, and it’s here to stay. it’s certainly not the first time androgyny has been in style- from flamboyant catsuits in the 1970s to Kurt Cobain’s famed yellow ballgown in the 1990s, we’ve seen stars defy gender expectations for decades. As people become more comfortable with dressing how they want, we expect genderless fashion to become the norm. Whether you mix it up with a traditional ladies umbrella or you wear a structure tuxedo, it’s time to dress the way you want to dress. Because why should our gender limit our self-expression?

Sources:

https://www.crfashionbook.com/fashion/g32018851/men-dress-history-billy-porter-david-bowie/?slide=8

https://www.vogue.com/article/grace-jones-memoir

https://www.starsinsider.com/fashion/330953/androgynous-style-icons-past-and-present

https://qz.com/quartzy/1597688/a-brief-history-of-women-in-pants/

https://www.elle.com/uk/fashion/celebrity-style/g30673216/billy-porter-met-gala-oscars-fashion/

https://www.vogue.co.uk/gallery/harry-styles-style-evolution

https://www.redonline.co.uk/fashion/fashion-trends/g516734/kristen-stewart-pictures-androgynous-style/?slide=7

https://www.buro247.my/fashion/buro-loves/female-celebrities-androgynous-fashion-styles.html

https://www.instyle.com/fashion/billy-porter-style-fashion-interview

https://news.sky.com/story/london-fashion-week-goes-gender-neutral-and-fully-virtual-amid-covid-19-restrictions-12221887 

https://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2021/09/14/troye-sivan-met-gala/

A Fright to Remember: How to Throw the Ultimate Halloween Party

Halloween is the time for fancy dress, scary movies, and spooky parties. What could be better?

Hosting a Halloween-themed party is a fun way to spend All Hallow’s Eve with friends and family. If the party is at your house this year, there are lots of ways you can make your event a night to remember.

Take note! Here are five simple steps to hosting the ultimate Halloween party.

Dress up the food and drinks

Rise to the occasion and make some Halloween-themed food and drinks. The option are endless, but here are few ideas:

• Little ghosts out of marshmallow or meringues
• A chocolate slime tart
• Served “toes” made from sausage and pastry
• Cake pops shaped like classic Halloween creatures.
• Monster pizza bites
• Don’t forget about the punch too – make a huge batch and serve in a cauldron!

Party planning is a lot of work. If you don’t have time to cook a Halloween-themed menu, there are plenty of pre-made items you could get:

• Eyeball-wrapped chocolate
• Fairy buns with Halloween-themed rings
• Pre-baked biscuits shaped like bats and cats

Decorate with a themes in mind 

Embrace the spooky season and make your own haunted house. Decorate your home with:

• Skeletons
• Ghosts
• Pumpkin bunting
• spider webs
• skulls
• bats and much more.

Sticking to a theme will give your party a polish and professional look that wouldn’t go amiss on the big screen.

Focus on the classics and go crazy with cobwebs, ghosts, bats, and jack-o’-lanterns. You can also pepper in some black cat cut-outs or ornaments. A few witch statues or hanging skeletons, ghosts and zombie motifs throughout your home. We’ve even seen people throw Halloween parties based on their favourite films- whether it’s a magical Harry Porter party or scary It-themed’ do.

Fright night

Boo! Jump out and scare your guests for a frightful Halloween. ‘ Tis this season… You could do this in a number of ways, from changing outfits and frightening your guests to enlisting your fellow party guests! For a few more scares, try revamping your Halloween -themed playlist with some spooky sounds.

Remix classic Halloween games

Entertain your guests and remix your favourite Halloween games. Many Halloween parties will get a Ouija board involved, and that’s classic All Hallow’s Eve activity. If that’s not really your thing, why not try a grown-up trick or treat? You could hide treats (think chocolate, boiled sweets, and maybe even some mini bottles of spirits) and a few tricks (like jelly, hard-boiled eggs, or spaghetti) around your home and get your guests to hunt for them. the person who finds the most treats wins!

For more frightful delights, get your guests to sit down with their eyes closed and pass around a box full of strange-feeling things. Tell them they’re handling brains, eyes and guts- it’s gruesome in the most fun way!

Take the party outside

Is that anything more quintessentially Halloween than the silver glow of the moon? Extending your decorations and party into your garden is essential. What’s more, you can give your guests some good old-fashioned jump scares with motion-activated decorations that will cackle or shout “Boo!” at them as they go by.

Don’t let the wind and rain ruin your outdoor party! Encourage your guests to warp warm and enjoy the haunting atmosphere. If you don’t have a canopy, hang up some windproof umbrellas to create a covered outdoor area. Bonus points if they’re in Halloween-y colours like orange, black, or purple.

Why stop there? Prepare your garden for outdoor parties all year round. Check out our top picks:

• Sports umbrellas for those golf days,
• Designer’s umbrellas to stay chic all day long,
• Kid’s umbrellas for the perfect children’s party,
• Wedding umbrellas for your special day.

Halloween is one of the best nights of the year. We finally have an excuse to indulge in our fancy-dress, favourite horror films, and guilty pleasure playlist. Follow our five step guide and treat your guests for a fright- we mean, night- to remember.

 

 

 

Enjoy Summer at the UK’s Best Lidos

Summer 2021 is going to look a lot different from usual. As restriction ease, many sun-seekers will not be jetting off on an international holiday this year. But don’t fret; with heatwaves, good times and an adventures spirit, there’s still so much we can enjoy in our own country.

Why do you normally go on holiday? Do you like discovering local history, enjoying new cultures, or cooling off in the pool? Well, if you’ve answered yes to any of those three activities, then your staycation is going to get a lot better. We present to you the humble lidos. If you didn’t know, a lido is an open-aired swimming pool or bathing beach is open to the public. They’re an icon of the traditional beach holiday. And with staycations on the rise, they’re set to make a big splash in our summer plans. Join us as we explore five out of the UK’s best lidos and why your perfect summer vacations is just a lido away.

Saltdean Lido, Brighton (England)

When you think of lidos, you think of 1930s summer getaways. Well, after years of neglect, this 30’s icon reopened in 2018 for modern families to enjoy. The pool was once described by Historic England as “one of the seven wonders of English seaside, “emphasising its impressive art deco architecture. It’s not just a fun place to hang around; it’s a site of cultural and historical significance – everything you need from a good holiday location. You can even enjoy Brighton beach while you’re there.

The Gourock Pool, Gourock (Scotland)

If you’re looking for a fun adventure just out of Glasgow, then Gourock Pool is a popular choice for local Scots and visitors alike. It’s popularity is unsurprising, as the pool offers expansive views over the Clyde. Even better, the salt-water pool is heated. So even on days when you’re more likely to need a windproof umbrella than beach towel, you can still enjoy swimming in the warm water, It’s a perfect spot to visit, no matter the weather.

The Rock Pool, Newcastle (N.Ireland)

Enjoying a quick dip is easy in the North Irish seaside town of Newcastle. This lido has some seriously impressive views as well. The rock Pool was opened in 1933 and now remains as one of the last outdoor pools on the island, Look up and you’ll see the impressive Mourne Mountains; glance the other way and you’ll be treated to the coast of Country Down. Pools are set to open on 7th August, so you can prepare yourself for splash and swim in the late summer.

Brockwell Lido, London (England)

Even non-swimmers can enjoy this lido in London. Hidden in Brockwell Park, this 1930’s outdoor pool has seen a multi-million-pound restoration, preserving its historic art deco setting. Not only can you enjoy a few laps of the pool, but the lido is also home to a great health and fitness facility , offering yoga and dance classes throughout the year. This summer, you can also see your favourite movies in the outdoor cinema nights around the pool. Who needs to visit a movie theatre when you have a lido?

Blackpill Lido, Swansea (Wales)

Entertaining the little ones can be difficult sometimes, but the Blackpill Lido in Swansea is the perfect adventuros day out. You’ll not be doing lengths in this outdoor pool. Instead, you’ll find shallow waters that are great padding. Tall fountains also make it fun to dodge the failing water. The lido is complete with picnic areas and surrounded by cafes, so you can always take a break for some lunch or ice cream. It’s right next to Swansea promenade too, so there are more fun-filled activates to enjoy while you visit.

Don’t worry about missing out on a fun swim this summer, because the UK still offers a range of lidos for us to enjoy your staycation. Even then, if the sun doesn’t make an appearance, just remember to take a clear umbrella that will help you see the sights in any weather, and kid umbrellas to protect the children from any holiday drizzles.