Warning: Spoilers ahead for all episodes of The Diplomat season 4.

Another thrilling instalment of The Diplomat has come to an end, and as is customary with the hit political thriller, there's a huge amount to unpack after that season 4 finale.

This season opened with Kate reeling from the discovery that the catastrophically dangerous nuclear-powered weapon the Poseidon, hadn't been buried in cement at her request at all, but actually stolen by Grace and Hal.

By the time the credits rolled on episode 8, there'd been a shocking death, several resignations, and a growing number of couples re-thinking whether or not their romantic entanglements should continue.

Let's break down what happened.

The Diplomat season 4 ending explained

In the build-up to the finale, Austin Dennison was nowhere to be seen. By episode 3, it came to light that Prime Minister Nicol Trowbridge had sent him on a visit to Amritsar, India, to meet with the country's foreign minister.

Sadly, he didn't make it back as he died in an unseen helicopter crash that happened off screen.

Austin's death pushed Trowbridge into a downward spiral that included him having visions of his deceased former adviser, Margaret Roylin and kicked off the start of what was ultimately his political downfall.

By episode 4, Trowbridge had resigned. He was a broken man after the troubling hallucinations of Margaret, and having been blackmailed by Kate - she made it clear to both the Prime Minister and Foreign Secretary Robyn Palmer that she had evidence of Trowbridge's wrongdoing.

This came in the form of a recording of the Prime Minister throttling Margaret after he found out about the part she played in the HMS Courageous bombing disaster. Upon resignation, Trowbridge is replaced with Jodie Whittaker as Bethan Vaughn.

During this season, Stuart found out the truth behind the HMS Courageous attack. Like most people, he believed President Rayburn had been responsible for the bombing, and is shocked to find out Grace was really the leading force behind it.

With Grace's growing confidence leading to risky behaviour and decision making, Stuart posted a message on the State Department Dissent Channel - an internal communications system that lets employees express confidential disagreements - to raise concerns about her.

When Grace found out, she removed Stuart from his London posting and it appeared he was going to be left jobless. With Stuart returning to Washington, Eidra would be staying in London - not only is Stuart probably unemployed, but it looks like his relationship could also be over.

During the finale's G7 summit, our leading characters, Grace, Hal, Kate, Billie, and Vaughn are all in the same room in Tuscany.

Grace unexpectedly kicks things off by announcing that Vaughn intends to let Russians into UK waters. The president says, "Americans are prepared to fire on any country that interferes with our mission."

She adds, "Nothing will stop us from keeping Russian warships and surveillance vessels and tactical weaponry out of the European seas." It's an outright threat, essentially saying that America will be doing whatever they want from now on, and nobody can stop them.

Immediately, Kate stands up, takes off her lanyard, and resigns to the President's face. Walking from the room, she's followed by Billie and Ganon who both want to follow her lead and make a stand against American tactics.

Grace is once again left furious and alone, but still intends to simply keep going with her mission to maintain absolute geopolitical control. While it initially doesn't look like Hal will join the walk out, there's sighs of relief all round when he eventually does.

For most of the cast and crew, Hal’s appearance with the rest of those walking out came as a surprise, as it was a detail kept secret until the filming of those scenes actually took place.

"In the read-through, that last page was redacted," Hal actor Rufus Sewell tells Tudum, sharing that his character's actions earned him "a round of applause that day" when the cast all found out the Vice President was doing the right thing.

However, the actor isn't sure his character made the decision because it was the noble thing to do - he thinks it could be down to Hal wanting revenge for the President earlier humiliating him.

Having already tried to stand up during the summit to express his feelings, he'd been "sat down" by Grace and left red faced. "It’s painful to play that because it’s not a good look," Rufus says of how Hal would've felt in that moment.

But, Hal is out, and now there needs to be a press conference. Without warning him, Kate informs the waiting reporters that her husband has something to say.

Stepping up to the mic, Hal goes to make a speech but viewers infuriatingly don't get to hear it, as that's where the finale ends.

Whatever his master plan, we won't get to find out what it is until season 5 - whenever that might be.

All 4 seasons of The Diplomat are currently streaming on Netflix.

It's officially leather trouser season. A great alternative to jeans, this polished trouser style adds texture and depth to autumn outfits, and Dannii Minogue's dark burgundy pair are a fantastic investment for the cooler weather ahead.

Spotted in a video alongside Trinny Woodall, Dannii styles her faux leather trousers with a cosy mohair striped T-shirt. Both items are from one of our favourite British clothing brands, M&S – and both are still in stock.

If you've ever hesitated on how to style leather trousers, this formula is seamless. Perfect for everyday, from lunch dates with friends to running errands. The dark burgundy trousers complement the rich brown shades in the striped knit whilst also tapping into the autumn/winter fashion colour trends for 2026. Dannii finishes the look with suede pointed flats, which also appear to be from the high street retailer.

It's worth noting that Dannii has paired contrasting textures – a fluffy knit with sleek faux leather – something to keep in mind if you're wondering how to style leather trousers or skirts this autumn. Wearing a single texture in an outfit can make your look feel one-dimensional. Leather has a sleek, light-reflecting finish, whereas her cosy knit has a matte, fuzzy finish, creating a stylish contrast.

It's not the first time we've spotted the singer wearing fabulous finds from M&S, and we were a huge fan of her palazzo jeans that she styled with a silky white shirt several weeks back.

Kate Middleton has proven that turning up the heat on your blush is the perfect beauty switch for autumn.

The Princess of Wales looked glowy and radiant as she appeared alongside Prince William for a day out at work in drizzly October weather, during the royal pair's trip to Belfast.

Princess Catherine looked as elegant as ever in a pleated tartan skirt by Emilia Wickstead and a ruffled blouse, teamed with her Small Amberley Satchel by Mulberry. But it was her makeup that really caught our attention.

While Kate's complexion always boasts that lit-from-within look thanks to her timeless makeup choices, her blush was noticeably bolder and richer for this outing.

Kate opted for a slightly warmer look than we're used to seeing, with her face appearing subtly sun-kissed all over. And her elegant cheekbones were accentuated by the addition of a warm-toned blush, generously applied to create a beautifully flushed finish.

Adding an extra helping of blusher and choosing a deeper tone is one of the easiest ways to give your complexion a healthy glow during the grey autumn months. It's also ideal for adding tones that are synonymous with the season's colour palette into your look.

As we've been admiring Kate Middleton's beauty looks for years, we couldn't help but be reminded of her iconic wedding-day makeup when we first saw these snaps. The stronger shade of blush is reminiscent of the pop of pink she wore on that special day.

As was the future Queen's bold eye look, which perfectly complemented the powerful touch of blush. As for lips, Catherine chose a peachy pink tone that expertly tied the glowing look together.

If you wish to copy Catherine, apply a bronzy, terracotta blush liberally to the apples of your cheeks to channel autumn with your makeup instead of your clothes - or to match your blush with the fall shades in your autumn wardrobe.

If bronzy-toned blushes aren't for you, try out a deeper wine-red choice instead. Kate's blush trick will light up your face and provide some serious cheekbone definition.

On April 29th, 2011, the Prince and Princess of Wales married in a lavish ceremony at Westminster Abbey in London. Catherine looked ethereal in her Alexander McQueen gown - and her bridal makeup was immaculate, too.

Kate's wedding day makeup was by Bobbi Brown makeup artist Hannah Martin, who used a selection of products by the beauty brand to create the stunning finished look, which featured a strong peach blush, bronzy highlighter, pretty pink lips and a strong smoky eye.

It's believed Kate wore the Bobbi Brown Shimmer Brick to create her beautifully radiant wedding-day glow, while the Bobbi Brown Blush in Pale Pink added a healthy flush.

The Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Even Finish Foundation was reportedly responsible for her flawless base, while she wore the famous Lancôme Hypnôse Mascara on her lashes.

Catherine's flattering makeup look is not only beautifully modern, but it's also timeless - as proven by its similarities to her historic royal wedding day look, more than 15 years later. More of this, please!

After wondering when we'd finally get some autumn weather, the UK's temperatures have plummeted and although I could do without the rain, I'm loving reaching for knitwear. The royals are clearly thinking the same and the Princess of Wales debuted a new Fair Isle jumper in a special video on 16th October, made by one of her favourite British clothing brands, ME+EM.

Kate announced a new project for the Royal Foundation Centre for Early Childhood, supported by founding partner, The Duchy of Cornwall. The future Queen has commissioned the Foundation Centre to take forward new work which examines how nature can help support the development of babies and young children.

Unsurprisingly, the Princess spoke about this project whilst outside in nature herself and the jumper kept her cosy. It was a deep chocolate brown tone with hints of steel blue, camel and white in the traditional Fair Isle pattern.

Shop Kate's Outfit

Shop More Fair Isle Jumpers

Brown is autumn's must-have colour and various shades are trending right now, from espresso to latte. Kate's outfits have been incorporating these hues for months and her ME+EM knit was mainly dark brown, which made it incredibly versatile.

When you're styling traditional patterns like Fair Isle and Argyle, it can be a bit daunting if there's a lot of different colours to balance. Picking a design which has a neutral base makes things easier and looks more understated. The Princess of Wales has a few different Fair Isle knits and they all have a cream, white or brown base.

This particular piece from ME+EM had a delicate, small pattern which accentuated the low-key feel. It's sadly almost out of stock now, though the brand still makes an alpaca-wool blend Fair Isle sweater in charcoal grey with pops of brown.

There are also so many other options out there right now and because brown is having a moment, a lot of designs feature this colour. In Cornwall we saw Kate wearing her jumper over the top of a monochrome polka dot shirt with the piecrust collar poking out at the top.

This gave her ensemble a preppy, polished edge and she loves layering her knitwear like this. If it's not for you, then you can still add extra warmth by wearing a long-sleeved T-shirt or a vest underneath.

The Princess of Wales added her Barbour Defence jacket over the top and the khaki-brown shade complemented the chocolate sweater perfectly. Earthy tones work beautifully together and Kate finished off her outfit with the same navy Johnstons of Elgin x Le Kilt skirt she wore in Scotland in January (also with a Fair Isle-inspired item).

It tied in with the blue in the Fair Isle pattern and the Princess would've wanted to look polished and smart-casual for this big announcement. However, a traditional Fair Isle knit looks stunning with a simple pair of blue or black jeans and ankle boots as a more relaxed outfit.

Something about the traditional, heritage feel of the pattern screams autumn/winter and although it can be tempting to go for brighter shades these can end up looking festive. Neutral knits are great throughout the colder months as well as for Christmas and I wouldn't be surprised to see Kate wear this ME+EM one a lot more this season.

Daniel Ings who plays the iconic Freddy Horniman in Netflix's The Gentlemen, has confirmed he won't be returning to the hit show for season 3.

As one of the most memorable characters in Guy Ritchie's crime comedy caper, Freddy's axing from the series comes as a huge shock, and fans want to know the reason for his departure.

The actor has opened up and been very direct about the behind-the-scenes changes and "different direction" he was told The Gentlemen would be taking before he learned Freddy wasn't included in season 3, and how he'd begun to feel he "couldn't rely on the scripts" he was given during filming for seasons 1 and 2.

"I’m not in the next one," Daniel confirms in conversation with HATC Magazine. He doesn't give away exactly what happens to Freddy, who was last seen maniacally decapitating Gospel John in the closing moments of season 2, but does refer to Freddy's departure as "wild, broken, crazy."

Humorously teasing his fate, Daniel says he believes season 3 could explain the Freddy's absence as him being off "probably mumbling into the ether somewhere in the British countryside”.

Describing his time on the show as "a lot of fun" and "a great experience," the actor explains that while he'll "always be grateful to have played a part in creating that character," Freddy was presented to him as "a completely different character" when scripts were handed out for season 2.

"I think Guy wanted to move away from the humour of it," he shares, adding, "He sat me down on my first day on the second series and was like, 'We went too far with the humour; we got to pull it back.'"

As part of the "big old journey" Freddy went on, and the changes to his character made for season 2, Daniel hints at constant script changes presenting a challenge to the cast, particularly to how Freddy's relationship with his brother Eddie came across on screen.

"The way that Guy Ritchie works is that he kind of throws the script out on the morning, and so you’re really putting a lot of yourselves as performers into those characters and helping build the momentum of a scene, ad-libbing and improvising and all this kind of stuff," he says.

However, he says the director would sometimes "rewrite the script and give you brand new pages." Because of this "constant evolution of surprise," the actor felt he "couldn’t even really rely on the scripts that you were given."

He continues to reveal, "Then new directors would come in. We’d get these new drafts, and that was a sort of constantly evolving process, and it was a real challenge to find the through-lines with the characters, and particularly for me and Theo [James]."

Delving into how their brotherly bond was depicted, Daniel says, "We had this kind of dynamic of a brotherly conflict that we had to really track through all of these evolving plotlines and storylines," and this would need to be revisited during multiple script alterations.

"So that was a constant bag of surprises," he says of navigating this particular behind-the-scenes aspect. However, he can see why certain changes need to be made to keep a series fresh, and why Freddy needed to be axed.

"You don’t want to keep playing the same game with the audience of this guy kind of comedically messing things up for them," he shares, concluding, "So it was an interesting challenge to take him in a different direction at the end. I thought it was fun."

There's one thing before bidding Freddy farewell for ever that fans would like to know: Did Daniel get to keep the chicken suit from season 1? The answer is yes and no.

"I asked for it on my very last day, and they said yes, and I took it home with me," he reveals. But, a week later, he received a phone call.

"They called and said, 'Oh my God, I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have given you that,'" and he needed to return it.

"It means that when it gets to Halloween every year, I’m very resentful because I don’t have a standard costume that I can whip out," Daniel says humorously.

He concludes, "But in fairness, it did take up quite a lot of space in the wardrobe."

Seasons 1 and 2 of The Gentlemen are currently streaming on Netflix.

When it comes to autumn/winter fashion colour trends of 2026, brown is this year's big winner. While we might champion black as the colour that never goes out of style, it feels like it's being edged out by a hue that is kind to every complexion and comes in a palette that ensures everyone is a winner.

Just as easy and elegant to style, brown, from bitter chocolate to milkier hues, sprung back into fashion last year, and it has continued to skyrocket, making it one of the best investments for autumn outfit ideas. Effortlessly pairing with neutrals or brighter hues of blue, pink or green, its earthiness is a classic choice for cooler climes.

Thanks to its popularity, brown shades are everywhere and cover every product type. From the latest autumn/winter shoe trends for 2026 to sleek new handbags, this is the colour that will instantly update your wardrobe, without ever going out of style. And it pairs with black beautifully too. I've rounded up some of my top buys below, and they start from just £25.99.

When styling brown as a neutral colourway, brown teams with other neutrals, such as black, cream, white, navy, grey, tan and red, and, especially in deeper shades, can be a direct switch-out for black, with the same level of polish.

Want to team brown with colour? Consider it done. This season, one of the most popular colour pairings is sky blue and chocolate brown - which looks sensational. But brown also looks great with pinks, greens, even purple hues across the spectrum (from burgundy to violet).

If you're nervous about pairing up colours, brown is fantastic, but stick to the three colour rule, where 60% of your outfit is brown, 30% is a secondary colour, and 10% is a third hue of your choice - for example: Chocolate brown, red and a hint of white, espresso, hot pink and navy. As a super grounding, earthy shade, browns add smart polish and a grown-up feel to any look that you can really get inventive with.

During a recent appearance on Sara Cox's Radio 2 Breakfast Show, Emma Thompson left listeners in stitches with a hilarious anecdote about once being mistaken for a naked intruder at her own home.

Teasing what was to come, Sara asks the iconic actress whether she'd like to elaborate on a drama "involving nakedness in a sheep field" that once happened to her.

Emma wastes no times in perfectly delivering the tale, beginning, "I was at home in Scotland with the sheep, and my daughter."

A night-time knock at the door woke both Emma and her daughter, Gaia, who "trotted down in our nighties" to see what was happening.

They were greeted by "a massive, horribly good looking policeman," who said, "I'm so sorry to bother you at this time, but a neighbour of yours reported that there was a 50-year-old naked man walking through the field about 4pm this afternoon."

He added, "I was wanted to see that you were OK." immediately frightened, Emma recalls wondering, "Oh my god, there's a stalker," until her daughter pointed out something really quite funny.

"That's sauna time mum, that's when you always go for your sauna," her daughter had said, and the actress made the connection - she was the one mistaken for a naked 50-year-old man.

The actress has previously spoken about having no problem with nudity, and being naked in front of others - with her property being in what she believed was "the middle of nowhere," she didn't think anyone was near enough to see anything in the outside land, let alone see her walking around it.

When the realisation about the nature of the mix-up hit, Emma says she quickly told the policeman, "I think it's OK," and it appears he might've joined the dots at the same time.

"Oh, oh," the officer backtracked, saying of the elderly neighbour, "I don't think she can see very well. I'm sorry to bother you."

Emma says, "Away he went, faster than he would otherwise have gone." She was left pondering whether he'd "had the same vision in his mind" of it actually being her naked in the field, and left as quick as he could out of embarrassment.

"So, that's what happened, and it's entirely true," the actress concludes with a smile. As well as the sauna, the actress also has a pond that she "washes in" at her Scottish home.

Witing in the comments, one person wanted to issue a warning about the dangers of walking and bathing naked outdoors.

"Be careful, Emma. Walking through a field naked is asking for a tick infestation. At least wear boots!" they wrote.

Another added, "Laughing out loud in the car this morning listening to Dame Emma's story!"

Emily English, more commonly known as Em The Nutritionist, has shared the before-and-after of her decadent kitchen transformation, filled with unique style notes.

While we pride ourselves on knowing the latest kitchen trends, occasionally we see a space that brings something new to the table, and it immediately catches our attention. Nutritionist and food journalist Emily English's recent kitchen renovation has given us several reasons to stop and take inspiration.

Now, if you're looking for budget kitchen updates, this might not be the inspo you've been looking for; however, there are so many style notes you can take from this space and utilise in your own home.

While it's possible to transform your kitchen with budget buys, this renovation is a whole other ball game. Em's London flat previously had a more confined galley kitchen, with a separate room for the dinner table.

Now it's a stunning open-plan space, with a chic stainless steel island softly separating the cooking and dining areas. Em also opted for a stainless steel sink, which we wouldn't usually choose for a home, but it works incredibly well with the statement marble surfaces and backsplash.

Choosing an open-plan kitchen can be a common kitchen design mistake to make; however, if you decide on the functionality of the room before you make the decision they can work incredibly well.

While marble and neutral cabinets are a classic design choice, Em has added personality with dusty pink dining chairs and a complementary green tufted rug under the table.

She's also thoughtfully introduced the cafecore trend with a hidden drinks and coffee area which sits opposite the dining table. Finished with stylish glassware, Smeg appliances, and luxurious fitted lighting, giving the area a welcoming glow.

The room still feels and looks expensive with these homely touches, which shows how choosing confident interior styles and materials can do the heavy lifting when transforming a space.

Keen to see how Em uses her luxurious kitchen? Well, you're in luck because she recently shared the blow-the-budget kitchen essentials she uses regularly; just be warned, your bank account may take a hit.

Many of us are well acquainted with pinks, nudes, and reds when it comes to painting our talons, but there's an unusual shade that's proving to be a popular choice this season.

As the colder season draws in, it's unsurprising that the list of 2026 nail trends skews toward deeper, richer, and moodier hues. From red carpets to royal appearances, navy nails have been sported by many household names in recent weeks.

Now, it's been given royal approval by none other than Zara Tindall, who sported the mani at this weekend's 2026 British Champions Day. We've taken note, and now our next nail appointment inspiration is sorted.

The chillier weather not only brings chunky knitwear and spiced hot drinks, but moody manicures too. We've seen burgundy, brown, and even black nails, but there's another rich shade appearing on the talons of many this autumn.

Adorning an opulent jewel-toned hue that changed with the light, Zara opted for an unexpected navy nail colour – a look that is proving to be a popular choice this season. The Olympian paired the shade with a short square nail shape and a glossy top coat with a mirror-like shine, which was nothing short of a winning combination.

For those wanting to recreate the look, we'd recommend opting for a base coat (such as essie's Strong Start Nail Polish Base Coat) to improve wear time, smooth your nail bed's texture and prevent any staining of the deeper hue. What's more, the shade also makes an excellent autumn pedicure choice too.

Commenting on the trend, Digital Beauty Writer, Sennen Prickett says: "It's a different, bolder, and moodier take on a neutral manicure, yet the classy shade is still minimal enough to effortlessly complement any outfit for any event. Pair with an ultra-glossy finish, and you've got yourself a winning manicure."

Sienna Miller stepped out in London last week, wearing an ideal outfit formula for the in-between weather that can make dressing feel so tricky in October. Her look plays into a trend we saw emerge in autumn last year, with her pairing of Bermuda shorts and knee-high boots creating a stylish silhouette.

Her boots of choice are the expensive-looking but surprisingly affordable Dune London Toova leather knee-high boots, which boast a low block heel that lends subtle height to the comfortable, everyday footwear.

To keep up with the cooler weather, Sienna paired her shorts with a knitted, navy jumper. She was also carrying Bottega Veneta’s Cabat bag, which might cost an eye-watering £7,500, but we’ve found a similar woven leather style in Rixo's Dragon Diffusion autumn 2026 drop that emulates the look for less.

Shop Sienna's Look

Knee-high boots are a must-have at this time of year, as they make pulling together polished but practical autumn outfit ideas a breeze. There are a variety of styles available online, but a minimalist pair like Sienna's are a particularly versatile option that will go with pretty much everything. Tuck your skinny jeans into your boots, or slip them on for some extra coverage under midi skirts.

While the idea of shorts and bare legs might not be the most appealing in colder months, Bermuda shorts and boots have become a standout trend for autumn. The main draw is the fashion-forward edge that the look has, with the playful proportion of structured, knee-grazing Bermuda shorts against sleek, calf-hugging boots creating a balanced silhouette.

To keep the style feeling practical for the season, recreating Sienna’s outfit with a chunky knit similar to her jumper is a good idea, and you can also throw on one of the best trench coats or best autumn jackets on top as an extra layer. Sheer black tights will also make a handy addition when the weather is really cool.

Women who have experienced any type of healthcare issue will likely be aware of the gaslighting and misogyny that's sadly ingrained in the UK medical system.

Presenter Ashley James recently spoke about about being told the bladder and bowel incontinence she's currently going through after a traumatic birth, is "all in her head."

After the huge outpouring of support she received for sharing her story across social media and on ITV's This Morning, she returned to the morning TV show to make further comments linking her experience to a Cambridge study that reveals women are far more likely than men to have their physical symptoms dismissed.

Broadcaster Mariella Frostrup now adds to the conversation by highlighting that healthcare provision in the UK isn't just inadequate, but also worse than some European countries.

Appearing on Jo Whiley and Zoe Ball's Dig It podcast, Mariella suggests there are two main problems behind issues with women accessing the care they need.

"One is the NHS and it's being the fact that it's overburdened," she says of the first possible major issue, adding, "The second is that women's health has never really been a priority."

She continues, "You know, under 10% of funding goes into medical research for female specific conditions."

Sharing a personal story and insight into what healthcare in the UK should look like, Mariella reveals that she once went to Italy and forgot to take her oestrogen for her menopause symptoms with her.

She felt "absolute terror" on realising she didn't have the medication, wondering how she'd manage without it and not thinking she'd ever get a replacement - such medicine is often subject to strict gatekeeping by medical professionals in the UK.

Mariella was surprised to be told, "Oh, just go to the chemist down the road and they'll give it to you."

Questioning whether she'd heard correctly, a friend living in Italy explained, "You just go down there and tell them you've left it behind, and you can just get your oestrogen."

She was surprised to find hormones, sleeping tablets and other useful medication just on the shelves. "What this illustrates is a trust in women's judgment that that in this country, we have an absence of" she says.

Mariella says women are often told, "You don't really," "you're too young," or "those aren't the symptoms" when trying to access drugs they know they need. They know their own bodies but are often told they do not, and a medical professional knows better.

Poignantly, she adds, "We're treated constantly as though we're unreliable witnesses to our own experience," calling this grave injustice "one of the most infuriating things" that "curtails progress."

When talking about what we can do about something so "entrenched in society," Mariella says, "It's something we have to just keep talking about, and we have to keep spotlighting until it changes, because it's absolutely unacceptable."

She explains a "recent ITV investigation" found medical students can have as little as "an hour" of training in a women's issue like menopause in their entire five-year course.

"That has to change, right?" she questions. "It highlights a system where women's health is at least at the very best secondary and really at the bottom of the list," she states.

The broadcaster acknowledges that changes are being implemented to how medical professionals are trained in menopause care, but believes it's "going to take at least 10 years for that to impact the women who are going to their GPs" in the future for support.

She highlights that "in too many cases" women are turned away or "being delivered opinions that actually aren't accurate" which is why gaslighting and withholding access to treatments can be wrong.

Mariella urges women to keep advocating for themselves and for everyone to "take responsibility" to move women's healthcare forwards.

However, she does point out that with "recognition of menopause, comes the commercialisation of it," warning women to research carefully and not fall into the traps of those "selling you all kinds of stuff that you don't need and isn't going to make a blind bit of difference."

Her advice for those visiting their GP with their symptoms is to attend an appointment armed with as many facts as possible. This could mean reading papers and books on the subject and accessing as much information beforehand.

Mariella concludes, "We need to take ownership of our own bodies and the responsibility for being informed, in the absence of societal recognition of it," while we "battle for better provision on a governmental and national level."

With cosy season officially here and December just around the corner, it won't be long before we're cracking open the first doors of our advent calendars.

If you're looking for an alternative way to count the days, try a candle advent calendar. Is there anything more festive than striking a match, lighting the wick of your best Christmas candle and filling your home with the smell of warmth, sweetness and spices? We think not.

That's why an advent calendar filled with enchanting yuletide scents to make our homes feel a little cosier is always something we're in favour of. So when we heard the surprisingly affordable Marks & Spencer Christmas Wax Melt Advent Calendar was returning for 2026, we were pretty thrilled.

With an affordable £35 price tag, this M&S offering won't throw your finances into disarray ahead of the festive period. And it isn't too hard to get your hands on, either.

Perfectly packaged in a decorative box, the wax melt calendar will see you through to the big day with 24 individual star-shaped, tree-shaped and cottage-shaped wax melts.

Scented with three of the retailer's most popular seasonal scents, you'll be enjoying the essence of Mandarin, Clove & Cinnamon, Yuletide Pine & Spice, and Frankincense & Myrrh to set the scene for you to hunker down and get cosy on December evenings.

Each melting session will be made all the more special by the included ceramic townhouse-shaped burner, which is adorned with the year, making for a charming decorative piece you bring out each and every Christmas.

The set comes complete with tea lights, so you can get melting straight away.

How can I get the M&S Wax Melt Advent Calendar?

The M&S Wax Melt Advent Calendar is available to buy now for December 2026. You can snap it up in stores and online, with delivery and pre-ordered collection services available.

It's recently arrived in stock, but it's already being added to dozens of baskets and selling fast, according to the M&S website. So if you really want to get your hands on one, it might be a good idea to order ASAP.

Shop more candle advent calendars

The advent calendar market is bigger and more impressive than ever, with beauty advents, perfume calendars and everything in between.

But if you already have an overflowing makeup and skincare stash and your perfume collection is stocked with your favourites, you're probably wanting something a little different for your Christmas countdown this year.

Whichever one of these fragrant advent calendars you choose, one thing is for sure - you will make your house smell divine around Christmas time. Happy melting.

Emma Willis wore an appropriately iconic look for Strictly Come Dancing’s Icons Week on Saturday. She wowed in a sequin-embellished midi skirt and proved that, on or off the dance floor, sequins can feel surprisingly sophisticated.

Dazzling sequins are a staple when it comes to partywear but, sometimes, they can feel a little OTT. That certainly wasn’t the case, though, with Emma’s silver gradient sequin midi skirt from Self-Portrait with its long, feather-like sequins lending her look dynamic texture and incandescent shine.

Emma complemented the silver finish with the So Nude sandals by Aquazzura. The playful, metallic finish was balanced out by a sleek and minimalistic, single-strap design.

But it was her choice of a crisp white shirt - With Nothing Underneath’s The Dress Shirt - that really cemented her style as ultra-elegant. If you’ve been struggling to style sequins, this look is nothing short of a masterclass. Bravo to her stylist Leah Binnall!

Shop Emma's Look

While a classic LBD or leather midi might be go-tos for date night outfits, cocktail parties or foolproof formal wear, sequin midi skirts offer a more playful alternative that, Emma proves, can feel just as sophisticated. The trick is to pair the party-ready piece with something a little more understated, and the capsule wardrobe staple of a white button-up is exactly the kind of piece to do this with.

Her shirt felt more relaxed thanks to Emma rolling up the sleeves, and it brought a bright, business-casual feel to the dressy sequins that amped up the formality of her outfit. The white hue carried the brightness of the metallic embellishments through her look, too, while also ensuring there was plenty of light close to her face, which is a trick that can help make any look more universally flattering.

While Emma teamed her skirt and shirt combo with heels to create an occasion-ready outfit, sequined skirts are surprisingly versatile and can be relied upon to create a whole host of different autumn outfit ideas. Team yours with one of your best wool jumpers and a pair of ankle boots, or keep Emma’s button-up and swap out her heels for loafers.

Like a garden in bloom, Elizabeth Hurley's favourite perfume is brimming with delicate florals, and she loves it so much that you'll find bottles of it scattered all over her house.

In an interview with woman&home, discussing everything from the Estée Lauder Companies Breast Cancer Campaign to her beauty essentials, the actress gave Digital Beauty Writer Sennen Prickett an insight into both her former and current go-to.

"I launched Pleasures for Estée Lauder in 1995 and wore that for years and years. I still have it, and my mother still wears it, but I've actually switched to AERIN's fragrances now. My absolute favourite is called Lilac Path."

Hurley described it as "the most exquisite, pretty, floral scent," before adding, "I have little bottles of it stowed everywhere around my house."

Interestingly, both the fragrances Hurley cited have one flowery note in common: lilac. It's a soft but quite distinctive floral. It's powdery but has a sweet, almost honey-like quality to it, which might be what initially drew Hurley to the scents. If you tend to gravitate toward floral fragrances yourself, lilac-centric blends are a very fresh and timeless option, much like rose and jasmine perfumes.

When you find a long-lasting perfume or specific note that you love, it's only natural that you'd want to surround yourself with it. Of course, many of the best perfumes for women do come in candle and body lotion form, so you can spread their aromas throughout your routine and home. Personally, though, we prefer Hurley's method of keeping actual, physical bottles of her signature scent tactically stashed around her.

After all, you never know when you might need to top up, and when it comes to the actress' floral fragrance of choice, we can understand the desire to always have it within reach. Aerin makes this quite easy and inexpensive to do too, with mini gift sets available in their best-selling scents.

Many brands also offer discovery sets that you could also separate and keep throughout your home and handbags. In fact, Digital Beauty Writer Naomi Jamieson actually does this with some of the best Diptyque perfumes, with each of her bags housing a mini tester.

The Hairy Bikers will always be remembered as national treasures - a warm double act brimming with enthusiasm for both food and motorbikes.

However, one half of the partnership, Si King, has been dealing with a devastating loss after his good friend and fellow Hairy Biker Dave Myers, sadly passed away in 2024 at the age of 66.

Speaking candidly about grief after Dave's death, Si says, "It's interesting about grief isn't it, because it's as nuanced and as individual as the people that are feeling it."

Many people know the basic stages of grief include denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance.

However, Si's very poignant statement proves that the process is never linear, and those going through loss can revisit certain stages, or have an entirely different grieving process altogether.

Speaking on Davina McCall's Begin Again podcast, Si candidly spoke about his experience of feeling angry with Dave for leaving him.

"I'm still pretty angry about him b*****ing off really, but I'm not really an angry person and I struggle with that about myself and that part of my character," he shares.

Si continues, "My journey with Dave's illness was quite different to what everybody else sees, because it was highly personal and very private."

Explaining the "level of disbelief" he felt when he found out about Dave's diagnosis, Si says he can "still remember where I was" when he found about his good friend's cancer.

"There was a surreal moment of, 'What do you say?'" he recalls of the moment he was told about Dave's illness, adding that although he didn't know what to say at all, he landed on asking lots of questions instead.

He remembers that it quickly became clear Dave and his family were "up for the scrap," or the fight against the disease (the location of Dave's cancer has never been publicly shared by his family,) and Si needed to find where he sat within that.

"My role as his friend was to support that endeavour- it didn't matter what I thought, or the route I personally would have taken, it was about supporting him," he says.

Reflecting on continuing life after Dave's death, Si shares, "It's different, very different, because were part of a double act and we always took each other into consideration."

He adds, "However that manifested itself, we always did that for each other - it's just different Davina."

The presenter also reflects on his own experience with serious illness, when Davina asks him about the aneurysm he had in 2014. During that year, he suffered a ruptured brain aneurysm that resulted in a brain haemorrhage, and he came close to death.

Si reveals he no longer recognises the man he was when the aneurysm happened, sharing, "I was loved, but I caused quite a lot of pain and anguish," saying it took him three to four afterwards to look back on the person he was before it happened, and ask, "Who in god's name was that?"

He says, "It had a profound effect on my family," and he and his wife Jane divorced a couple of years after the brain injury occurred. He does say they are now "great mates" and he "adores" his former wife, but they had to work hard to be amicable with each other.

"Divorce is like a marriage and it's all about compromise," he says in another poignant statement, concluding, "It's about being adult about it and understanding where you went wrong - it was never anybody's fault, it just broke."

She may have been the UK’s longest-serving monarch, but she was a grandmother first - and it was seeing how Prince William’s future in-laws treated her grandson that really enamoured the late Queen to the Middleton family.

Ailsa Anderson, a former press secretary to Queen Elizabeth, revealed how important it was for the Queen to see her "children and grandchildren happy" and she recognised how Michael and Carole Middleton "welcomed [William] with open arms into their family".

The late monarch was also reportedly comforted by another aspect of the Middleton family dynamic - how they "stuck together through thick and thin", giving William and Kate a role model when the Queen had been left "distressed" by three of her own children going through a divorce.

Speaking to HELLO!, Ailsa shared, "The Queen always wanted her children and grandchildren to be happy, and she recognised what a huge support Carole and Michael Middleton were to William and how they welcomed him with open arms into their family."

"She clearly saw all the qualities that the Middletons provided for Catherine and William. She had three out of her four children divorce, so I think she liked the fact that her grandson was marrying into a really close family who have stuck together through thick and thin."

She added, "Carole has never put a foot wrong - she’s been a steadfast presence as a loving, supportive mother and grandmother to those grandchildren."

Royal author Robert Hardman has also suggested the Queen was left "distressed" by her children’s divorces in the past, echoing the sentiment shared by Ailsa.

In his book, Queen of Our Times, Robert alleges, "It distressed her much more than she let on" and that a staffer told him for his book "one shouldn't underestimate the pain she's been through".

The source reportedly told the author that Her Majesty once even proclaimed, "'Three out of four!' in sheer sadness and exasperation".

Of the Queen’s four children, King Charles, Princess Anne and the former Prince Andrew have all been divorced. Charles, in what is now arguably one of the most famous separations of all time, and Princess Diana ended their marriage after 15 years.

Princess Anne divorced her first husband, Captain Mark Phillips, after 18 years of marriage. And Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor divorced Sarah Ferguson after 10 years of marriage.

Now, with the late Queen gone, her trust in the Middletons seems well placed, with royal author Ingrid Seward describing how much of a support Carole has become to the future King and Queen.

She told HELLO!, "Carole is a really helpful, practical and unflappable mother and grandmother. Rather than ask what she can do, she just gets on with it; she's very proactive.

"When William went back to royal duties after Catherine’s diagnosis, she was doing the school run and probably doing things like filling the freezer with the kids' favourite foods.

"Looking after the three kids would have been absolutely no problem for her whatsoever, and Catherine would have been able to relax in the knowledge that her mother's hand was on the wheel."

Menopause supplements, beyond black cohosh and St. John's Wort, are a relatively new phenomenon - one that's found its captive audience in recent years. So much so, the UK's menopause supplement market is expected to reach $25 billion by 2030.

It's fair to say there's plenty of money to be made in the industry, especially by brands with good marketing. However, not all menopause supplements deserve their spot on your shelf.

Someone who knows this all too well is Dr Amir Khan, an NHS GP and woman&home's own resident doctor. He says that questions about the vitamins and supplements women should take in menopause are among the most common in his direct message box on Instagram.

Referring to the British Menopause Society's guide, he says: "You don't automatically need a special supplement just because you're menopausal."

The American Menopause Society also doesn't recommend supplements or herbal remedies for treating symptoms like hot flushes. "The evidence simply isn't reliable enough," he reads.

"Now, that doesn't mean nobody feels better after taking them," he adds. Dr Khan is keen to stress that this is just the evidence behind menopause supplements from leading health bodies. He's not telling women what they should or shouldn't be taking, especially if something is working.

The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) has acknowledged some evidence that black cohosh and soya isoflavones may help hot flushes. "But this is really important: different preparations may vary, safety is uncertain, and they may interact with your medicines," he says.

For example, black cohosh contains plant estrogens that may not be suitable for those with liver problems or a history of breast cancer.

If in doubt, check with your pharmacist that a supplement or medication is suitable for you. "Pay for a supplement that meets your needs, rather than assuming a menopausal label makes it worth more," he says.

The doctor's alternative recommendation to menopause supplements

• Vitamin D: "Good, old-fashioned vitamin D for your bone health," he says. "We know falling oestrogen accelerates bone loss, and in the UK, 10 micrograms between autumn and winter is needed," he says. Inexpensive supplements are fine, and you don't need to buy them from any particular brand.
• Calcium: This mineral is also essential. "But I'd say get it from food - yoghurt, fortified milks, calcium-set tofu", unless you're deficient or you don't get enough in your diet, he says.
• Protein: "Don't underestimate good food and movement," he says. "Get protein into your meals: beans, lentils, tofu, fish, alongside vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats."
• HRT and non-hormonal treatments: Ask for help, the doctor urges anyone struggling with menopause. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and HRT alternatives, CBT for menopause, and other options are all available via your GP.

The doctor also stresses the importance of regular exercise. "Aim towards 150 minutes of moderate activity a week, plus strength training twice a week, minimum," he says.

"All of these support your heart, bones, muscles, mood, and sleep, all of which are important in menopause," he says, though none will alleviate hot flushes as some menopause supplements claim to do. Hormone therapy and its alternatives are the answer to this.

The trend of bringing personality back to our homes is showing no signs of going anywhere; in fact, it seems to be becoming a more steadfast trend. The latest proof of this can be found in Benjamin Moore's confident green Colour of the Year 2027, Webster Green.

Bolder, more playful colours are a consistent pattern in the interior paint colour trends we've seen so far this year, and we couldn't be happier about it. After seeing Dulux's Colour of the Year 2027, Soulful Sage, announced just last month, we were hoping for more colourful hues from other brands, and Benjamin Moore has seriously delivered.

The brand is calling Webster Green a "Confident hue with undeniable personality... a quintessential green that transcends styles and timeframes with ease." And after taking one look at the rich, yet sophisticated shade, we couldn't agree more.

If you are looking to add personality to your home, opting for a richer, more daring colour like green is a fantastic way of doing it. And whilst it can feel daunting to use such a colour in your home, finding a shade that is timeless like this one is your key to long-lasting satisfaction.

"Webster Green is a quintessential green, with a crisp finish that exemplifies this enduring relevance and classic appeal that endures the ebb and flow of trend cycles," says the brand.

"From its presence in Benjamin Moore's archival hand-drawn renderings to forward-thinking points of inspiration, it is both timeless and timely. It nods to the palettes that have shaped interior design over the decades, while connecting with the contemporary desire for trusted hues that create grounded yet distinctive spaces," they add.

Now, greens have been rising in popularity for years, from the delicious pistachio green trend to the repeatedly adored sage green one, so it's no surprise we're immediate fans of Webster Green. However, the more elevated shade of this makes it much easier to add to our homes and preexisting exteriors.

It's clear the brand has stayed ahead with the interior colour trends that are popular right now; however, they've prioritised longevity with their Colour of the Year.

"A growing interest in colours with a timeless quality are making their way into the home. Webster Green reflects this appeal by pairing reassuring stability with optimistic energy," starts Helen Saw, Director of Marketing at Benjamin Moore.

"Its composed nature feels both rooted and forward-looking, while enhancing spaces that feel distinctive, collected and continually new," she adds.

This grounding nature is why it makes such a great colour choice for colour drenching a room, and the fact that it pairs so well with similar earth tones and natural textures.

If you need any more convincing, then green colours like these are considered happy colours to use in your home and have been proven to improve your overall mood when around them.

When it comes to outerwear, sometimes a classic black or camel coat just won't cut it. Enter Queens of Archive, the British clothing brand bringing a playful dose of 1960s-inspired glamour to our autumn wardrobes with eye-catching animal prints and the most sumptuous faux fur collars and cuffs.

Loved by style icon Alexa Chung, these vintage-inspired designs are the kind of coats you build an entire outfit around, rather than throw on as an afterthought.

Of course, Alexa isn't the only famous fan. Giovanna Fletcher, Clodagh McKenna, Jaime Winstone and Fearne Cotton all love the brand, too.

Although Queens of Archive coats are a bit more of an investment than your usual barn jackets or puffer coats, the timeless silhouettes and distinctive details make them pieces you'll want to wear year after year. In fact, think of them as future heirlooms!

Shop Queens of Archive coats

Nicola Orme, Co-Founder of Queens of Archive told woman&home: "Having launched my previous collection with just two coats last autumn/winter, I really wanted to explore what a statement coat means to me.

"I tried to make each one as individual and statement as possible. Each style has a different story, balancing uniqueness whilst also being able to slot into every winter wardrobe.

"Priscilla is so statement and Vivienne is her natural successor. She’s deep black faux fur maxi coat with a fluffier shawl collar and bold contrast leopard lining. She’s opulent, focussed and flattering, the coat I wished existed.

"Francoise and Etta are kindred spirits. Both are A-line and above the knee, so easy to wear and layer, but they can just as easily be loud and statement. They also both have detachable collar and cuff for styling versatility throughout the seasons.

"Our zebra print Monroe takes the lead as the bolder one, doing the job of a dress, a definite head-turner.

Finally, Gloria is the epitome of winter for me. A Sunday best coat for winter strolls and cosy pub lunches!"

I don't know about you, but there are some chores around my home that I am always looking for easier, more efficient ways to complete. And once again, Dilly Carter has just shown me the light with another kitchen organisation tip.

Trying to organise a kitchen and keep it organised week after week is no small feat, especially when it comes to heavily used appliances and essentials like your dishwasher and dinnerware. The dishwasher is an especially laborious task when it's used daily, and using it so often means that my dishes and cutlery have a greater chance of becoming unorganised.

Luckily, Dilly Carter, a professional organiser on Sort Your Life Out, has shared her fantastic tip for ensuring your cutlery stays organised from the moment it's popped into the dishwasher to them being put neatly away in the drawer.

Loading a dishwasher incorrectly is one of the biggest dishwasher mistakes we all probably make on a daily basis, however once you know how to do it right, it'll make life so much easier.

"The way we load our dishwasher matters! It's not just a box we throw our dishes into any old how. There is a way to do everything properly," says Dilly.

"Now, who would believe that there is an art to loading your dishwasher? Yes, this box that we use every day is not just a box that we chuck everything into; it's about having everything cleaned properly. We don't have things coming out and not being cleaned. And that's often because things haven't been loaded properly," she continues.

"So we've got our bottom for our heavier soiled dishes, our middle for our glasses and our mugs, and then the top tray is for our cutlery," points out Dilly.

It's not just cleanliness that Dilly has prioritised in her dishwasher organisation, the really smart tip that has now revolutionised my loading and unloading is with the cutlery drawer or basket.

Although her machine has a tray, this advice still works with a basket too. And it's a another great way Dilly keeps choatic drawers organised with minimal effort.

"This tray is replacing the old style cutlery basket, so there's no danger of you ever cutting yourselves because everything is beautifully organised," Dilly says.

"The reason I love these cutlery trays is because we can categorise all our knives, forks and spoons. Yes I organise my knives, forks and spoons even in my dishwasher," she explains.

"But the reason I do that is so once everything is together, I can simply grab them all in one go, open my drawer which of course is perfectly placed by my dishwasher, and throw them in. Nice and easy, it's all about time," Dilly shows.

This is definitely not a kitchen organisaiton mistake to avoid, in fact I'm not sure how I'll every load a dishwasher the same again. I'm certainly looking forward to no more faffing around when putting cutlery away.

If you want more of Dilly's genius advice, why not try her tip for maximising storage space in your kitchen?

Some fashion rules feel so ingrained we barely question them, and keeping navy and black apart is certainly one of them. Yet Julianne Moore has just made a convincing case for ignoring this piece of styling advice.

Spotted in New York last week, she paired a navy blue knitted top with relaxed black trousers, proving both these neutral shades can look far more sophisticated together than you might expect. Both shades are understated yet classic, and worn together, they are surprisingly complementary.

For her outing, she wore a softly structured blue knitted tee paired with some black trousers that taper in slightly, a chic autumn outfit idea. She accessorised with a black Bottega Veneta woven shoulder bag, oval sunglasses and an unexpected finish of white heeled boots. She adds a touch of colour with bright red drop earrings.

The contrast of white footwear lifts the whole look, whilst the black accessories make it feel cohesive. The trick to making navy and black work together is to avoid making the outfit feel too matchy-matchy. Julianne's top has a softer, more tactile finish than her trousers, and her addition of a woven handbag adds texture to the look. This simple formula makes two darker colours feel sophisticated and put-together.

For an everyday take on Julianne's look, I'd start with a navy jumper, fine-knit top or cardigan and pair it with black tailored trousers. Wide-leg or relaxed styles are an elevated choice. And instead of boots, add your best white trainers for a smart-casual take on this formula.

If your ultimate treat to yourself is a new beauty product, you'll be no stranger to the best beauty advent calendars. This year there's an incredible range to choose from, including everything from fragrance calendars and high-end countdowns, to must-have high street buys like Boots and M&S advents. But one retailer that never fails to impress us is Space NK – and this year its calendar is better than ever.

The gorgeous foldout design boasts contents worth more than £1,200 combined, which you can get today for £233.75 – that's a further 15% off the usual price. And despite only have 24 doors, there are 35 products in total (24 of them full-sized).

What's inside the Space NK Beauty Advent Calendar for 2026?

With 35 products inside and 24 of them full-sized, there's a fabulous array of surprises to discover when you open the doors of Space NK's Beauty Advent Calendar this year.

If you want to keep the surprises, well, a surprise, don't read on. But if you want to know exactly what you're splashing your cash on, we have a rundown of every product behind those beautifully-decorated doors.

• Augustinus Bader The Body Cream - Full Size
• BYOMA Hydrating Milky Toner - Full Size
• Caudalie Vinoperfect Brightening Dark Spot Serum - Full Size
• Charlotte Tilbury Beauty Light Wand in Pinkgasm - Full Size
• Color Wow Dream Cocktail Carb-Infused Thickening Treatment - Full Size
• D.S. & Durga Debaser In Bloom Eau de Parfum - Travel Size
• Fenty Beauty Gloss Bomb Lip Gloss in Fu$$y - Full Size
• Gisou Honey Infused Hair Perfume in Vanilla Glaze - Travel Size
• Glossier Lip Line Enhancing Pencil in Buff - Full Size
• Hourglass Unreal Liquid Blush in Whim - Full Size
• K18 HAIR HeatBounce Conditioning Heat Protectant - Full Size
• Kosas Soulgazer Mascara in Black - Full Size
• Kulfi Beauty Lassi Lips Staining Lip Oil in Rose - Full Size
• La Mer Crème de la Mer Moisturizing Cream - Travel Size
• Laneige Water Sleeping Mask - Full Size
• Lisa Eldridge Kitten Flick Liquid Eyeliner in Black - Full Size
• Medik8 Exo-PDRN Prismatic+ Serum - Full Size
• Naturium The Booster Hyaluronic Acid Body Wash - Full Size
• Olaplex No.3 PLUS Complete Repair Treatment - Full Size
• Ole Henriksen Pout Preserve Peptide Lip Treatment in Crème Brulee - Full Size
• Patchology FlashPatch Restoring Night Eye Gels - 30 pairs Full Size
• Philip Kingsley Elasticizer Intensive Treatment - Travel Size
• Phlur Missing Person Eau de Parfum - Travel Size
• Rare Beauty Harmony Flexible Lifting Gel - Full Size
• REFY Lash Sculpt in Brown - Full Size
• REFY Lash Curler worth £18 not sold separately
• Saltair Salt Water Vanilla Nourishing Body Oil - Travel Size
• Skin Rocks The Cleansing Balm - Fragranced - Full Size
• Sol de Janeiro Rose Charmosa Dewy Body Cream - Travel Size
• Space NK Nordic Wilds Bubble Bath - Travel Size
• Summer Fridays Pink Dew Gel Cleanser - Full Size
• Sunday Riley Good Genes Lactic Acid Treatment - Full Size
• Tatcha The Dewy Milk Moisturiser - Travel Size
• VIEVE Skin Nova Instant Radiance Primer - Full Size
• Votary Super Renewal Serum - Full Size

When can I buy the Space NK Advent Calendar 2026?

The Space NK Beauty Advent Calendar for this year is already here - although we reckon it won't hang around for long.

It's available to order from the Space NK website with free standard delivery - and you can secure a 15% discount with the code FIRST15 if you haven't shopped there before.

From walking fields filled with active landmines to helping challenge prejudices against those living with HIV/AIDS, Princess Diana’s legacy is one of charity and shining a light on important causes.

And while many of these causes were widely discussed at the time, it turns out that the late Princess of Wales would find even more ways of helping those in need - and they weren’t always conventional, or something you’d expect to see in the papers.

Dickie Arbiter, a former press secretary for Diana and King Charles, has revealed that she would leave Kensington Palace unannounced and drive around the streets of London, handing out money to sex workers and the homeless - partly because she was lonely each night and partly because she felt it was "something she had to do".

Speaking to the Daily Mail's Palace Confidential, Dickie - who worked with the late Princess from 1988 up until her death in 1997 - claimed, "She would try to escape, telling her protection officer: 'I'm not going anywhere tonight. You can have the night off.'

"Lo and behold, the car would come anyway and she'd drive around Paddington. Not just to hand money to sex workers, but to drive past and see how the homeless were coping.

"It was something she felt she had to do, but it was also something that she was doing out of boredom."

He added that, while Diana would have things to do during the day, she’d find herself "desperate" for something to do at night, especially as any friends would face a "rigmarole" trying to visit her at the palace.

"All she had was a telephone to phone friends," he said. "Her friends were reluctant to go through the security hoops. She had to give security her friends’ names, addresses, car numbers, what time they were coming, and when they were leaving. It was a bit of a rigmarole."

It wasn’t just this new insight into Diana’s less-publicised movements that Dickie revealed to the outlet - he took aim at several allegations made in Earl Spencer’s book, Swan Song.

Written by Diana’s brother, the book includes several accusations that have since been contested by supporters of King Charles, and His Majesty released a rare statement questioning the accuracy of some of the more damning suggestions, including him supposedly telling Earl Spencer that Diana would soon be forgotten after her death.

Dickie, who worked with the late Princess and the now King, refutes a lot of the book’s claims.

"It’s just not in Charles’s DNA to be the sort of person Spencer is portraying. I saw him the day Diana returned, which was hours after she had died," he recalled

"He got off that plane, and I don’t think I’d ever seen him that distraught since the death of his great uncle, Lord Mountbatten. The man was a wreck. So for Spencer to suggest that he was like somebody who had won the lottery is just make believe. It’s la la land."

Have you got your woolly winter wardrobe out yet? Because we’re giving our homes the same seasonal treatment. As cold weather creeps in, it’s time to embrace wool in all its wonderfully tactile glory. Naturally insulating, breathable and beautifully textured, this timeless natural fibre brings warmth to our interiors, adding depth, softness and an unmistakably cosy feel to your home just when we need it most.

Leading the charge is Ruggable, who has just launched a collection of washable wool rugs, combining the natural luxury of wool with the everyday practicality we never knew we could have. And it’s not alone. From Woolroom’s inviting layers to Dunelm's beautifully crafted home accessories, there are plenty of ways to weave this heritage material into your interiors, whether you’re looking for a statement piece or those little finishing touches that make a room feel luxurious and seasonal.

So, if you’re ready to give your home a softer, warmer countryside feel for the season ahead, we’ve rounded up our favourite wool homewares to inspire you. Think sumptuous textures, natural tones and timeless pieces that will feel just as lovely long after winter has passed too.

Our favourite wool home décor

Autumn and winter are the perfect seasons for layering up your home with tactile textures, warming tones and natural materials, and wool is one of the loveliest ways to achieve that cosy, collected look. Whether you introduce it through a chunky knitted throw, a soft wool rug or smaller handmade details, it's a timeless material that brings warmth, character and a little extra comfort to the everyday. If you're crafty, you could even knit or crochet a few pieces yourself, from placemats and tea cosies to blankets and decorative accessories.

Bennifer might not have lasted as a power couple, but there’s still plenty of love and respect between Ben Affleck and Jennifer Lopez.

The pair are something of a modern day Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton. Their romance started in the early 2000s, with the pair getting engaged but never making it down the aisle. Then nearly 20 years later, they rekindled the romance and tied the knot, with their marriage lasting between 2022 and 2024.

Proving that a divorce doesn’t have to turn lovers into enemies, Ben has recently praised Jennifer as "extraordinary", sharing the "enormous amount of respect and admiration" he holds for her and acknowledging that she taught him a lot over the years.

Appearing on the podcast, The Moment with Jorge and Paola Ramos, Ben expanded on comments he made in an interview with Variety recently, telling the hosts it would be hard "to sum up the things I got to learn from knowing Jennifer and witnessing her."

He shared, "I think to understand Jennifer Lopez, honestly, is to understand somebody who really is a pioneer who did things when he was told they’re not possible and you’re not welcome and by kind of force of will."

He added, "in terms of professionally, watching her do what she does, I think that she’s exposed to a degree of criticism in which there is an implicit or at least subconscious double standard."

Continuing to heap praise on the singer/actress/entrepreneur, Ben continued, "I stand in enormous respect for what she’s been able to achieve, and she’s always done it by saying, ‘Even if nobody else believes in me, I’m going to bet on myself.’

"She’s also taken real risks, invested her own money, she’s done all the things that we’re told, ‘This is what great American entrepreneurs do.’ She’s done them to spectacular success and I have nothing but respect for her.

"She is probably the hardest working person that I’ve ever known."

Their marriage ended in 2024, but Ben revealed that there were many lessons from his time with her.

"I learned a lot, not just from her, but from her family and the people I got to know through them… She’s pretty extraordinary, and I’m not surprised at all to see her having ongoing success, and I wish it for her. She deserves it in every way."

Despite calling time on their romance, the pair continue to be in one another’s lives, often spotted attending events with each other’s children from previous relationships. Jennifer’s twins, Max and Emme, were from her marriage to singer Marc Anthony. Ben shares three children with his ex-wife, Jennifer Garner.

There's been an influx of autumn staples arriving on the high street recently and, while our eyes are on the M&S Autograph autumn 2026 collection, Rachel Stevens has brought some stunning new Zara pieces to our attention.

From the store’s fitting rooms, she showed off a number of their new-in tops, including the contrast check shirt, which brings an elevated take on the western trend with its cuffed sleeves and plaid print. She also tried the striped shirt, which features orange, burgundy and blue stripes to create a bold colour palette. And the ZW Collection fluid ruffled shirt she showed off immediately caught the eye as a must-have for creating date night outfits.

But alongside the comfy, elasticated Zara check trousers with turn-up hem, it was the two jacquard jackets Rachel picked out that really set the sophisticated tone of her picks from the brand. The multicoloured ZW Collection jacquard jacket and sleeker, tonal ZW Collection short jacquard jacket could easily be mistaken for designer pieces, and Rachel made them feel incredibly wearable, as she styled them with a simple pair of jeans.

Shop Rachel's Autumn Zara picks

Rachel styled nearly everything she picked out with some light blue, wide-leg jeans. Pairing an oversized shirt with a pair of baggier, wide-leg jeans doesn’t always feel like the most flattering choice when it comes to autumn outfit ideas, but as we enter a season where comfort and cosiness are paramount, the relaxed, voluminous silhouette of this duo can feel modern and effortless – and it can even work for smarter dress codes, too.

As Rachel shows, there are different avenues you can go down when styling an oversized shirt with jeans. Her checked shirt gives a more casual feel thanks to the worn, red hue and western-inspired checked print, while the high collar, neat stripes and cuffed sleeves of her striped shirt feel more appropriate for smart casual outfit ideas. If you try the look but feel it swallows your frame, utilise the classic French tuck to anchor the waistline and bring in some balance.

While oversized shirts are quickly becoming a staple this season, autumn jackets are taking a different turn. While we need to keep practicality in mind when trying on the best autumn jackets, with styles like the best trench coats allowing for coverage and easy layering, the cropped, fitted structure of the jacquard jackets Rachel tried on at Zara is quickly becoming one of the standout autumn/winter fashion trends for 2026.

Both women have held the same title, but Catherine, the current Princess of Wales has one “striking contrast” from the woman who held it before her, Princess Diana - Diana had to face it on her own.

This is the claim made by royal biographer Ingrid Seward, who suggested that “it’s one of the tragedies of Diana’s story that she was adored by millions, yet emotionally denied by the few who mattered most.”

Her opinion is that, despite both women having to deal with their own hurdles and burdens holding such a senior title in the Royal Family, Kate has the support of both Prince William and the Middleton family, whereas “Diana faced it alone”.

Ingrid made the claims on HELLO!’s A Right Royal Podcast, sharing that she believes “that is where the contrast” between Diana and Kate “is most striking”.

While acknowledging that Kate’s “life is not perfect, it is rooted in a shared understanding with William, her husband, Diana’s son.” And it’s not only having the support of her loving husband that has helped Kate comfortably take on the senior role.

From her closeness to her parents, Michael and Carole Middleton, to her supportive siblings Pippa and James, Ingrid believes Kate has “something that Diana didn’t have: an incredibly close-knit family, and a very ambitious mother”.

Then, of course, there’s also the benefit of hindsight. Ingrid suggests that Kate has also cleverly learnt what not to do by observing what Diana went through so publicly.

“Catherine took lessons from Diana,” the royal author said. “She saw that Diana gave so much of herself to people, but it exposed her too much. Catherine learned from that: just give enough, but don’t give too much, because you’re too vulnerable that way, and people are going to strip you bare if you do that.”

“Being a Princess of Wales is not just about acting as a decorative accessory,” she added. “The title and rank can be a force for good, employed by both Diana and Catherine to champion big issues, using their celebrity to shine a light on often overlooked but critical challenges”.

A shared title is one thing, but the one thing that truly connects the two, per Ingrid, is their shared affinity for children.

“They both absolutely had [and have] a magic with children, and I think they would have talked about that,” she said. “Diana’s legacy is her sons and the way she changed the face of royal engagements, and Catherine has completely taken up the mantle [on that].”

Comparisons to Princess Diana - her late mother-in-law who passed away tragically young in 1997, before Kate had ever met her - were always going to be inevitable. And it's why she was reportedly reluctant to accept the Princess of Wales title to begin with.

"Kate found all such talk stressful,” royal author Robert Jobson wrote in Catherine: The Princess of Wales: A Biography of the Future Queen.

"Indeed, it got to the point where she felt she might follow Camilla (who opted to become Duchess of Cornwall) in refusing - when the time came - to be known as HRH Princess of Wales.”

Ultimately, when the time came in September 2022, Kate accepted the title "with good grace, out of respect for her husband and the king. Enough time had passed to make the title more palatable, and Catherine had been on the world stage long enough to be appreciated for her own qualities."

Temperatures have officially cooled, and if you're on the hunt for an autumn jacket to see you through the season in style, Keri Russell has highlighted a standout checked style from British clothing brand Barbour that we're eager to get our hands on.

Embracing one of the key autumn/winter fashion trends 2026 – heritage prints, she was spotted in New York wearing the Delilah tartan showerproof jacket styled with turned-up straight-leg jeans and heeled black mules. Checks are everywhere this season, and this practical, weather-proof coat offers the perfect way to wear them.

The cropped, boxy silhouette offers a modern take on this country-coded pattern and makes the jacket the perfect companion to high-waist jeans. The checks are actually Barbour's signature tartan print, and it's made from a showerproof cotton, which makes it ideal for autumn's unpredictable weather.

If you want to invest in an outerwear piece that will stand the test of time, Barbour's collections are worth browsing: not only are they durable and weatherproof, but their designs are classic and enduring.

Keri's Barbour jacket is exactly the kind of piece I can see myself wearing throughout the autumn. The navy and beige tartan print feels classic, whilst the cropped boxy silhouette makes it relaxed enough to layer over a range of autumn outfit ideas. From straight-leg jeans and sturdy boots on the weekend to a lightweight knit and tailored trousers for a smarter day out, it will complement a range of looks.

It's all too easy to focus on the big tasks this month, with lots to harvest and lots of plants to prepare for the colder weather; however, according to RHS's Garden Almanac there's one surprisingly important task to put on your to-do list.

Whether or not you've got a long list of gardening jobs to complete this month, autumn is a surprisingly busy time for plant life. As well as avoiding the autumn gardening mistakes that are all too easy to make this season, there are some jobs you may not have thought to add to your list before.

Luckily, we have some expert help from the RHS and their fantastic 2027 Garden Almanac complete with a month-by-month guide to gardening. And this month we spotted a little piece of advice that we'd never thought of before, so we just had to share.

Now, we're usually trying to get rid of weeds from our gardens, but according to the gardening experts at RHS, Zia Allaway and Guy Barter, weeds should actually be cherished this time of year.

"Cherish winter weeds such as annual meadow grass, chickweed, red deadnettle and shepherd's purse, for example. These plants will do little harm now, as long as they don't flower and set seed, and provide cover for wildlife," they explain.

"Leave the plants in situ from autumn to February, after which many will start growing rapidly, flowering and setting seed before you know it. Hoe them off, smother with a mulch, or incorporate them into the soil," they suggest.

There are quite a few wildlife-friendly weeds that are best left alone if you're happy to have a little more of a rewilded garden this season.

There are some other ways you can sort the garden out regarding weeds if you don't want to let everything and anything grow.

"Unwanted perennial plants are best removed with a spade or fork in autumn before their foliage dies back, and they become hard to find," explain the RHS experts.

"Dandelions are an exception - their flowers are valuable to pollinators, and they don't set much seed in winter, so tolerate them if you can," they say.

You don't need to have an entirely rewilded garden, but if you do want to help wildlife during the autumn, leaving some weeds to grow can be a massive help. And of course, completely low-effort for you too.

If you want help keeping your garden happy and healthy all year round, the RHS The Garden Almanac 2027 is the perfect guide, and it makes a fantastic gift too!

A beautiful handbag is the easiest way to elevate an outfit, and the latest drop from British clothing brand Rixo might just tempt you to add a new option to your autumn wardrobe. The label's hugely popular collaboration with Dragon Diffusion is back, featuring fresh colours and shapes that are perfect for party season and all the invitations that come with it.

First launched back in May 2025, the collection was a big hit with fashion fans, and it's not hard to see why. I wouldn't say I'm a big handbag gal normally, but I fell in love with the Lucine Leather Bag in dark brown, and I've used it almost every single day since. I initially thought the woven design lent itself much better to use in the summer months, but I carry mine all year round and am keen to get my hands on one of the four new styles.

Combining Rixo's signature vintage-inspired aesthetic with Dragon Diffusion's instantly recognisable woven designs, the collection hits the sweet spot between everyday elegance and something that feels a little bit special. In the latest release, you'll find a rich bordeaux shade alongside a glamorous gold option, with prices starting at £295, so it's perfect for everything from autumnal layering to festive dressing.

Shop the new Rixo x Dragon Diffusion designs

One of the most distinctive things about Dragon Diffusion is the little St. Christopher charm sewn into each style. St. Christopher is the patron saint of travellers, so it's a sweet little nod to all the journeys and adventures you might take your handbag on.

The Rixo x Dragon Diffusion collection has even had a moment on the big screen recently. Sandra Bullock's character Sally Owens carries one of the bags in Practical Magic 2, giving the already highly sought-after styles an extra dose of Hollywood appeal.

If you missed out the first time around, or simply can't get enough of the designs, this is definitely a drop to have on your radar.

Victoria Beckham's first ever homeware line launched this week. The collection of hammered stainless steel, creamy porcelain, and mouth blown glassware is elegant, exclusive, designed to elevate the everyday.

It's no surprise that the fashion designer is bring her chic taste to the table too. We've long admired the Beckham's famously stylish home, but having a whole collection available just before gifting season makes it easy to shop the Beckham look.

Even better, if you're inspired by the popular Isla butter dishes and salt and pepper pots and, my personal favourite, the jewellery-like napkin rings.I've done some research into more affordable lookalikes, so you can mix and match for a luxury look on a budget.

Victoria Beckham Westwing Homeware Collection

The Victoria Beckham Westwing collection is a beautiful treat for the table. I'll show you some comparisons between high street brands, but these are the three pieces that are true collection heroes:

Launching just in time for the start of the hosting season, Victoria Beckham’s launching her first homeware collection. It's a collaboration with German brand Westwing centres around “serving style”. It's a masterclass in how to use soft textiles, decorative objects and a sophisticated palette of white and dark green, with hammered stainless steel and off-white porcelain bringing texture to the tablescape.

The collection takes inspiration from Britain’s 19th-century Arts and Crafts movement, which championed craftsmanship, natural forms and the beauty of objects made to be used as well as admired. We've seen lots of celebrations of the William Morris designs this year, especially on rugs, but Victoria Beckham's collection brings something a little different.

“Home is where some of life's most meaningful moments happen, and this collaboration felt like a natural way to explore that world through the same lens of design, craftsmanship and attention to detail that defines everything we do,” Victoria explains.

Her fashion background is evident throughout, from the jewellery-like chain motif on the Dover plates and table linen to the sculptural, shell-shaped Isla butter dishes and salt and pepper pots. “I wanted everything to feel refined, but never overly formal. There’s an ease in the way the pieces live together.”

The Westwing collection also comes with beautiful packaging, so these feel like true heirloom, luxury investments for your kitchen. The boxes are definitely ones to keep hold of.

I've pulled together our favourites from the collection with some more affordable lookalikes so you can choose how and where you shop the luxury look:

The Victoria Beckham x Westwing collaboration has already been widely admired for bringing elegance to the table. It's polished and practical, bringing style without looking too precious. They're perfect for gifting to yourself or to loved ones over Christmas, although, we predict that they're going to be a sell-out success.

Skincare mogul Liz Earle knows that the prospect of dating can feel daunting - even more so as you get older and contend with the changing landscape.

For people who didn’t grow up with mobile phones dictating every decision, the idea of online dating and apps after 50 might seem strange, but there are ways you can make it work. Liz knows this first-hand. She did it, and she found love - and she’s far from the only one. Stars including Trinny Woodall and Emilia Fox have talked about their experience embracing the apps.

Offering candid, open advice with her social media followers, Liz shared: “I know it can feel daunting, but we don't have to navigate it alone.” Her top tips for getting comfortable with online dating are practical, rooted in experience and a great starting point for anyone hesitating.

In her video, Liz starts with a simple, overall bit of advice. She says, "Online dating after 50. I've done it, and I found love. You know, my first tip: get comfortable with being single.

"A partner, I think, should add to an already fulfilling life, not kind of be there because you need your life completing."

Acknowledging that online dating can feel "unromantic" and not exactly the stuff of great romcoms, Liz reassures any sceptics that it’s “actually one of the most reliable ways to meet somebody new” while staying safe.

On staying safe, she shares some salient pointers for anyone unfamiliar with the experience of online profiles and dating.

She says, "Just use your first name initially. Meet somewhere in public. Keep that first date short. A cup of coffee is ideal.”

"Always have your own way home. Don't get into a car with somebody you don't know."

Notably, Liz’s advice goes beyond the practicalities. Safety first, of course, but it’s also important you remember to measure your expectations. She says in the video, "Remember, it's a numbers game. You know, not every date will lead anywhere.

"Try and enjoy the experience of just going out and meeting new people and be honest with yourself. What are you really looking for at this stage of life? You know, our priorities change."

Above all though, the skincare and wellbeing expert wants people to remember it’s never too late. Maybe one chapter didn’t end the way you expected, but there’s no reason to end the story there.

If anyone's going to get us out and enjoying our gardens, it's Pamela Anderson. And that might be a surprising statement, but taking one look at her thriving space and the joy with which she tends to it, and you'll have your gardening gloves on in no time.

With so many October gardening jobs to tick off the list this month, getting out into the garden can feel a little daunting. But as the weather changes and the cold mornings really start to settle in, your outdoor space will need sorting out sooner rather than later.

And why not find the joy in it? After Pamela posted the whimsical reel on her Instagram (@pamelaanderson), we were immediately infected with that relaxed happiness and started planning our weekend in the garden.

While there are many autumn garden mistakes to avoid this time of year, it's usually a pretty simple time to be out maintaining your plants. If you have a space similar to Pamela's, you can follow suit with her sunrise routine.

"Good morning, time to clean up the garden. Early bird gets the first worm. There's lots of peppers still, tomatoes and carrots," says Pamela.

The Baywatch star begins with pruning her taller rose plants that grow in the multiple raised beds she has in her large garden. Using an essential garden tool, secateurs, to prune the roses properly and maximise blooming for next year.

Aside from maintenance, she also ticks off lots of harvesting. If you're new to vegetable gardening this year, you'll be just as impressed as we are by the size and shape of Pamela's pepper, tomato and carrot crops.

Although this season can be rather gloomy, we're also inspired by the magic that can be found in the garden this time of year. And once again, Pamela has us romanticising the everyday. "I love the sunrise in the garden, all the magical fall light," she says.

And perhaps the most important garden job of all? Saying morning to the dogs. Her golden retriever and two chocolate labradors are more than happy to join in on the autumnal garden maintenance.

And whilst Pamela mainly showed her overflowing raised beds, there's also maintenance to be done on any patches of grass you may have. Learning some autumn lawn care tips can help ensure your lawn stays healthy over winter and looks just as good come springtime.

Mike and Zara Tindall have enjoyed a 15-year-strong marriage - and counting - but the former rugby pro has revealed that it’s not always easy.

In a relatable and candid interview with the Talk Horse podcast, Mike opened up about navigating the more difficult moments with Zara, how he tries to help her deal with her "mother’s guilt" when she’s juggling her competitions and her parenting, and what the pair are good at when it comes to confrontation.

Mike told the podcast, "I think neither of us necessarily chase out confrontation until it happens. That's sometimes not the best way of doing it. But then when it happens, I think we're probably pretty good at actually talking about it.

"You've just got to try and muddle your way through. It's never easy, is it?"

He added, "I think it all depends on the scenario. I think it's very easy when it's around sport or whether it's around the animals and the kids, but obviously other nuances become more difficult."

The former England Rugby athlete then admitted to something that many spouses are likely guilty of - winding Zara up on purpose. With his trademark humour, he confessed that sometimes “you just want to annoy someone, just for the sake of it. I probably do that a bit too much”.

Despite trying to annoy his wife, Mike did also offer an insight into the ways he supports Zara as she continues to compete at a professional level in her equestrian sports. Zara - who recently won her first major eventing medal in 20 years - is no stranger to the mum "guilt" that many working parents feel.

Mike shared, "You forget sometimes life is hard when kids come along and you try to still compete. Fortunately, when Mia came along, that was my last year, so I haven't been a professional athlete whilst the kids have been around."

Championing Zara’s ability to juggle her sporting prowess and their three children - Mia, Lena and Lucas - he added, "You've got to try and play a support role at the same time because mums do have mother's guilt. It's a thing.

"And it can be really hard at times. I won't say I get it right all the time, but you've got to try and do it whatever ways you can."

When Zara has a big event approaching, Mike knows how important it is to give her her space as she requires “massive focus”, but he also tries to bring some lightness to it.

"I try and make her laugh every now and again to remind her you don't have to be that serious."

Autumn might be cooling down, but the weather is still teasing us with warm afternoons, so it’s not quite cold enough to break out our best wool jumpers yet. The transitional season is still hanging on, and that means that the knitted vest Gillian Anderson just wore is the chicest answer to layering right now.

While announcing the launch of her drinks range G Spot into M&S stores, she appeared on the British clothing brand's Instagram page wearing the merino wool-rich knitted vest with cashmere by Autograph. Its grey marl tone and luxe knitted fabric delivered a cosy, autumnal look to its sleeveless cut.

The top still has a delightfully cosy feel, and its blend of merino wool and cashmere adds breathability. As both cashmere and merino fibres are much thinner than standard wool, the fabric has a much softer finish while still being warm, trapping body heat when it's chilly outside. It’s exactly the kind of fabric you want in your auutmn capsule wardrobe.

Offering temperature regulation, merino wool and cashmere have other benefits that make a case for adding them to your capsule wardrobe. The fine fibres that make them breathable and warm also add to their comfort, with the soft finish contrasting with traditional coarse wool and making merino wool and cashmere pieces more comfortable to wear. Both 100% natural fibres, they are naturally antimicrobial; they help to repel odour-causing bacteria, meaning you can wear jumpers and tops made from the fabrics multiple times between washes.

Gillian styled a tonal outfit by adding a pair of black trousers that worked as an easy and effortless option for office wear and smart casual outfit ideas. We couldn’t see how she finished off the look, but some patent loafers or black kitten heels would make great choices. Or you could slip into your best white trainers for a more casual spin.

While her top looked great on its own, its thin, low-bulk knit lends itself incredibly well to layering, making it easy to include in autumn outfit ideas. Thanks to the sleeveless design, you can layer it over cotton shirts, silk blouses, fitted long-sleeves, or even over dresses, without adding any bulk.

Piers Morgan storming off the set of Good Morning Britain is a moment that will go down in TV history. Following a heated debate with co-presenter Alex Beresford about Meghan Markle back in March 2021, Morgan left the seat he had sat alongside Susanna Reid for five years and never came back.

In episode 5 of our podcast, woman&home loves, our centenary issue cover star Susanna spoke to our editor-in-chief, Hannah Fernando, about her friendship with Piers following his infamous exit from GMB.

'When it all ended in tears, and he stormed off the programme, we did have a period of time - a very short period of time - where it was very fragile," Susanna told us. 'Because obviously it's been very emotional. But we very quickly patched it up.

'From there we have maintained a friendship because he's a really important person in my life. In that five years of GMB was very impactful for viewers, and he's also just great fun. You know, I just love hanging out with him.'

Susanna also explained how she first felt when they met and the depth of their friendship. 'I didn't know him before he came to work alongside me on Good Morning Britain in 2015. I knew of him, and when I was told he was going to be the co-presenter, I remember taking my microphone off, going to the dressing room with my editor and going 'what on earth are you doing?

'He's one of those presenters - one of those journalists - who has international name recognition. I was lucky to work alongside him. Not least because he taught me so much about journalism, the way you question people. He was like a dog with a bone when it came to interviewing politicians. He was utterly ruthless. But I learned a lot about being persistent and being determined and I'm very grateful to him.'

Now that the cold weather has finally arrived, it doesn't feel quite so scandalous to start talking about all things Christmas. And we couldn't be happier about the timing because Next has some pretty magical light-up pieces of decor we just had to share.

If you were across the trends last year, you may have seen the viral light-up gingerbread Christmas tree skirt from Next. It was an immediate sell-out, so we were positively jumping for joy when it restocked this year. Unfortunately, that specific colourway is sold out once again, but fear not, because Next is seriously delivering the goods with other light-up pieces.

So whether you're looking to update your Christmas decorating ideas or add a touch more dazzling magic to the festive season, here are some of our top picks from Next's illuminated accessories.

While we're big fans of having the best Christmas tree lights and outdoor lights, there's something so whimsical about having other decorations illuminating your home during the festive period.

Next, they've really levelled up their game with must-have Christmas products this year, with affordable trend-led items and high-quality timeless pieces to choose from. Whether or not you like to add personality to your home during the holidays, their range has something for everyone's taste.

But we must admit their light-up products hold a special place in our hearts as they not only can help make a dark room brighter during the winter but they add a touch of magic too.

If you want to peek at other retailers, we've also compiled a list of our favourite pieces from the M&S Christmas shop. But we're warning you: your basket will fill up very quickly.

Former model and TV chef Lorraine Pascale has now shifted her career focus to study for a Doctorate in Counselling Psychology and Psychotherapy.

Her thesis is on feeling safe in relationships, and she's specialising in coercive control as part of her studies, after being a victim of this type of abuse herself.

Lorraine recently appeared on the Second Act podcast to share her experience and offer advice to women who recognise they are in a controlling relationship and aren't sure what to do.

She explains that her abusive relationship wasn't made public and the press didn't know about who it was with. "I do consider myself to be strong, and not to be the person to get into those type of relationships," she says.

Lorraine adds that coercive control is "stealth - it's so subtle, it's so persuasive, it's so enticing, but then ultimately it's really dangerous."

She continues, "For those of you who watch true crime, you'll see that so many of the homicides started as coercive relationships."

Sharing the "best advice" she was given when she became a victim of coercion, Lorraine says, "Write everything down that happens," although acknowledges this can be difficult.

If a person being controlled is concerned about writing things down that might be found, Lorraine shares, "I know people who will send a text to a friend and then delete the text, so the friend can keep the record."

She says that "people don't understand just how easy it is" to get into a controlling relationship, and how just as hard it is to get out once someone recognises what is happening.

Lorraine likens the "intermittent reward" of controlling relationships as "addictive" and like "slot machines."

She explains, "You lose, you lose, you lose and then you win - and the win feels so good, and is so addictive."

Lorraine also calls not just for women to be educated about how to spot and get out of abusive partnerships, but also for men to be educated to prevent it happening.

"We need education for men, men in the workplace, for boys, everything, because it's just not there," she says.

Speaking about the practice of "love bombing," which is where a new partner showers someone with extreme affection, attention and grand gestures to gain control, Lorraine says manipulative tactic can feel "delicious."

"They're listening to me, they're buying me gifts, they're all over me," she says to demonstrate what can go through people's minds when they're being love bombed.

"A red flag means get out, don't think about it," she says, but understands this can be easy to say and difficult to actually do.

If you're experiencing coercive control or are concerned about somebody who is, women can call The Freephone National Domestic Abuse Helpline, run by Refuge on 0808 2000 247 for free at any time, day or night. Alternatively, women can email helpline@womensaid.org.uk – staff will respond to your email within 5 working days.

Claudia Winkleman's wardrobe has become almost as much a talking point on The Traitors as the twists and turns around the round table. Last night, the presenter wore another look that captures everything we love about her aesthetic and luckily for us, you can still shop her exact look.

Claudia leaned into one of autumn's most notable trends – heritage-prints, layering a tonal grey argyle vest over a delicate lace blouse before adding a pair of sharply tailored trousers from ME+EM. The combination of the classic heritage print with the romantic blouse underneath feels so well chosen.

Her exact knitted vest by British clothing brand Johnstons of Elgin and is a grey cashmere tank, whilst her cream lace blouse is from another Scottish designer Judy Clark. She finishes the look with black leather loafers from Church's that feature playful fringe detailling on the buckle.

Whilst the individual pieces in this look are worth paying attention to, the way it's styled feels so elevated. It's a combination that feels very Claudia, but it's also an easy outfit to recreate, especially if you want to try integrating a knitted vest into your current autumn outfit ideas.

If you're wondering how to style a printed or block coloured knitted vest, layering it over a lacy or ruffled blouse is one of the best ways to wear it. Make sure you opt for a design with long sleeves and a high neck or collar that can be made visible. It's also a good idea to play around with texture; her lace blouse and soft knit are two very different textures, which makes it an eye-catching choice.

Home renovations and DIY projects are all good in theory, but there’s always more to it than meets the eye, as Alex Jones is learning.

Alex has been sharing the progress of overhauling her retro 1980s home, and while she’s excited about the prospect of getting started on the huge project to transform her dream home, she realised she has to face a very ominous question: "Where are we going to live?"

In a new social media video, she revealed the dilemma she’s facing contemplating living in a caravan as the colder months draw in – and the surprising yet 'very helpful' advice she’s received from Grand Designs host Kevin McCloud, who has overseen his fair share of renovations and transformations.

Alex Jones home renovation advice shared by Kevin McCloud

Alex explains in the video, “We are rewiring, we're replumbing; it's a year's project at least. Do you want to hear [her husband] Charlie's idea? We should hoist a static caravan over the trees and put it here."

She reveals she went straight to Kevin to ask for his frank, professional advice - and his insight may be useful for anyone contemplating their own home projects in the future.

Kevin called it a "great idea" and his top tip is to "always stay on site if you can" when a renovation project is taking place.

He told Alex that what he would personally do to elevate the experience is add a cheap shed as an extension to the static caravan. That way, you keep "your coats, your wellies, your washing machine and a tumble dryer in the shed", and keep the caravan relatively decluttered and a home away from home.

Alex sounded relatively unconvinced, even by Kevin. And there’s something she absolutely won’t do: "I am not living in a static caravan for Christmas." We’re not sure even the expert tips to make a space feel cosy will be enough; stocking up on electric heaters might be wise, Alex.

Ending the video, Alex currently thinks they might move into the caravan in the early spring to avoid the coldest winter months, and asked her followers for any advice or input; there were many who were quick to offer their own experiences.

One wrote, "We did it when we renovated with a 2 and 4 [year old], they loved it! My advice, though, is to get a double-glazed one if you will be in it during colder months. We hired a container for all the extra ‘stuff’”.

Another who was on team caravan shared, "We loved our statics - nearly 3 years in them whilst we totally renovated the house. Actually, I was sad to leave them. A simple life altogether. We had one to live in and one to sleep in. Joined by a deck made of pallets!”

Of course, not everyone is as sold on the idea. “No, don’t! We’ve built a house, we know! Just the paperwork/plans, etc will take up a whole caravan. Rent somewhere within 10 minutes of the house/schools.”

Dwight "The General" Manfredi is back. Taylor Sheridan’s brilliant Tulsa King returns on October 16 with Sylvester Stallone once again bringing his A-game as the infamous mob capo for season 4.

In the new episodes, Dwight tries to legitimise his empire and protect his crew while coming up against corrupt politicians and New York mobster Quiet Ray Renzetti - and new challenges can no longer be solved with old-school tactics.

With his empire threatened from all sides and Tulsa turning into a battleground, Dwight is out to keep proving nobody can underestimate him.

If you're concerned about missing out on the gripping new episodes, there's no need to be - you can tune into Tulsa King season 4 from anywhere in the world.

Remember, if you're abroad and want to watch the series as usual, but find yourself hit by geo-restrictions, you can use a VPN to watch the show online and access your usual streamers - more on that below.

How to watch Tulsa King season 4 in the UK and US

In the UK and US, fans can watch Tulsa King season 4 on Paramount Plus from Friday, October 16.

After the season 4 premiere, episodes will air weekly on Fridays for the remainder of the show's run.

In the UK, Paramount Plus plans start from £5.99 per month, and there's a seven day free trial for those new members. Those with an active Sky Cinema subscription can also activate a basic with ads account on Paramount Plus for free.

In the US, you can sign up for Paramount Plus Essential for just $8.99 a month, although you will see ads.

For an ad free experience, you can sign up for Paramount Plus Premium at $12.99 a month.

For residents of both countries, if you're abroad and want to watch the series as usual, you can use a VPN to watch Tulsa King season 4. online.

How to watch Tulsa King season 4 from anywhere

If you’re travelling, or going to be away from your usual TV set-up when Tulsa King season 4 airs, but don't want to miss out on any of the gangster drama going down in Tulsa, there's no need to worry.

You can still enjoy the episodes with the use of a Virtual Private Network - a VPN.

A VPN allows you to change your IP address to that of the area where you want to watch, meaning you can tune in to the series, even if you're not there.

Our sister site, TechRadar, has tested all of the major VPN services and they rate Nord to be the absolute best.

They say, "It’s compatible with all of your devices, supports most streaming services, and ranks among the fastest. You can even install it on devices like an Amazon Fire TV Stick, Apple TV, Xbox, and PlayStation. So for a one-stop-shop, you can’t go wrong with Nord."

If you've never installed a VPN before, don't worry, it's quick and easy. Just follow these three steps:

• Download and install the VPN following NordVPN's easy-to-follow instructions.
• Once you've installed your VPN, choose the location you wish to connect to in the VPN app
• With your VPN installed and server location set, you can now watch Tulsa King season 4 on Paramount Plus.

The trick to putting together an expensive-looking outfit isn't necessarily buying expensive clothes. It's about choosing pieces that fit well and feel considered, which is where collaborations like Uniqlo x JW Anderson can help. It's an opportunity to experiment with a designer's aesthetic without having to fork out a fortune - in fact, everything in this collection is under £80.

JW Anderson's ever-popular collaboration with the Japanese brand makes it easy to bring a touch of high fashion to your autumn outfit ideas. The latest drop celebrates "theatre, academia and the spontaneity of artistic expression". It's full of preppy knits and practical autumnal jackets - and we want it all.

Known for his playful approach to fashion, JW Anderson excels at putting a contemporary twist on classic silhouettes. Not only does he have his own label, but he's currently Creative Director at Dior. Style credentials don't get much better than that! Somehow he's also made time for a collaboration with UGG, which launched on the 15th October - the same day the Uniqlo drop landed online. So you really can get the look from head to toe!

Shop Uniqlo x JW Anderson

One of the biggest benefits of shopping a collection like this is how versatile the pieces are. We're not talking about a dress you might wear once or twice and forget in the back of your wardrobe - think well-designed basics that will earn their keep year after year.