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Harry Judd: I had to learn to be less selfish when I became a father
Harry Judd: I had to learn to be less selfish when I became a father
Sex, drugs and rock ‘n’ roll are not necessarily how you would describe McFly these days, as the band venture into fatherhood, settle down, write kids’ books and tour in a far less intense fashion. A lot has changed since their crash onto the music scene in 2003. They’re more chilled-out pals than boy band bad boys now. “Dougie was very excited today, because we figured out a really good post-show cool down,” Harry Judd, McFly’s drummer, says with a laugh. “[It involves] lighting a candle, having a shower, getting into some comfies and then having some healthy food. I can assure you, it is very rock and roll,” Judd, 37, adds. “It’s more sustainable that way – the way we do it – and also ultimately more enjoyable. You feel a lot more fresh, energised and able to do the gigs, because it’s quite a physically demanding job being on tour. “When we first started, we had that unbelievable energy you have with your buddies, but I enjoy it more now. We’re focused.” Changing priorities Judd’s lifestyle has changed in the past 20 years of McFly. “I’ve stopped doing anything I shouldn’t have been doing. I lived a pretty rock and roll lifestyle, so I think I was totally ready [to be a father].” Now, alongside playing with his bandmates, the 2011 Strictly Come Dancing winner is also playing with his children, Lola, seven, Kit, five, and Lockie, who’ll be two in October. All of his kids want to play very differently, and he gets to see them explore in many different ways. “Lola’s really into imaginative play, make-believe, roleplay, and right from an early age, I remember her pretending to play doctors and nurses, mothers and babies. I can tell already that she loves pretending to be a teacher, lining her teddies up and taking a class. “My son, Kit, on the other hand, loves music. I bought his first toy drum kit from Argos last year, but he’s now moved on to guitar, unfortunately. He is a bit more individual with his playing, pretending to be in McFly basically. I can see him going into music.” Despite Kit’s musical interests, his dad is not his favourite member of McFly. “Tom [Fletcher] is his favourite member and that’s something I’ve had to come to terms with,” Judd laughs. Out and about “My kids just finished for the summer holidays, so now I have to do more with them. You feel that guilt as parents, when they’re at school, because there’s no time and my daughter is constantly telling me, ‘Daddy, let’s do this. Let’s do that’. Even just carving out 10 minutes a day of play with your kids is hugely beneficial,” he says. And his time with them is often spent being a big kid. “We get outside… climbing trees and making dances; playing catch and cricket in the garden. [We play] Grandmother’s Footsteps, stuff like that. That, to me, is the most fun and fast way to engage with your kids.” Nurturing his inner child Judd is very aware of his own childishness. “I still can relate to a lot of my inner child now. I’m still very competitive and I’m quite sensitive. There are moments where I always want to be right and I have to try and contain that.” His wife Izzy, he says, knows she is sometimes dealing with a big kid, too. “I feel like she takes on so much. She has three kids. She’s got a man baby for a husband. She’s kind and she’s so caring,” he gushes. “The main thing for me, was to become less selfish. I think that’s one of the hardest things. You’re no longer number one. You can’t just do the things you want to do.” Harry Judd is partnering with Argos on its 50th birthday. Argos is giving away £20,000 worth of toys to mark its five-decade milestone. To find out more click here. Read More Charity boss speaks out over ‘traumatic’ encounter with royal aide Ukraine war’s heaviest fight rages in east - follow live How to bring a touch of the Mediterranean to your garden 6 of the biggest bridesmaid fashion trends to know about Experts share 8 healthy habits to help you live longer
2023-07-25 15:46
6 of the biggest bridesmaid fashion trends to know about
6 of the biggest bridesmaid fashion trends to know about
While the bridal gown will usually be the sartorial focal point of any wedding (and rightly so), bridesmaid’s outfits are an important part of the overall aesthetic. As a bride, not only do you want your bridesmaids’ dresses to complement yours, you also want your BFFs to feel fabulous on your big day – and depending on the size of your bridal party, you’ll have several opinions to take into account. As with bridal gowns, bridesmaid trends come and go too, so what’s hot this wedding season? We asked fashion experts to run down the biggest bridesmaid fashion trends of the moment. Here’s what they had to say… 1. Sage green Six Stories Sage Halter Neck Satin Bridesmaid Dress, £120“Sage green is definitely the most popular colour for bridesmaid dresses this season,” says Lucy Menghini, founder of Six Stories. Following last year’s surge in deep green shades like emerald, now softer hues have come to the fore. “The good thing about sage green is that it can work all year round,” Menghini adds. “While it’s a beautiful shade for summer, the grey undertones make it a perfect pick for autumn/winter weddings too.” 2. Same shade, different styles Gone are the days when every bridesmaid had to wear an identical dress or the exact same colour. “With this trend, bridesmaids can wear a variety of different shape and style dresses, which are tied together by being similar hues of the same colour, or a range of complimentary colours,” says Kirsty Keoghan, global general manager of fashion at eBay UK. “I love this trend because it promotes individuality and helps bridesmaids feel their most confident selves on the big day.” It makes shopping a whole lot easier too, adds Menghini: “It also allows the bridesmaids to have a say in what type of dress they find most comfortable and flattering.” 3. Classic black dresses Monsoon Beatrice Crepe Bardot Maxi Dress Black, £87.50 (was £125)While a black wedding gown might not be for everyone, contrasting the white or ivory bridal look with black bridesmaid dresses creates a modern, minimalist colour palette. “Many people are often intimidated by a set of black bridesmaid dresses, however this look adds elegance and finesse to any wedding,” says Menghini. “Black dresses are also perfect for those with large bridal parties, who are looking for different styles of dresses in the same colour, as you won’t have to worry about matching the shades.” 4. Pre-loved pieces “One trend we’ve seen boom is bridesmaids wearing pre-loved wedding attire, with 58% of newlyweds looking at ways to shop sustainably and 75% of couples getting married looking to keep the costs down,” says Keoghan. Occasionwear is perfect for shopping second-hand, because many garments have only been worn once so they’re in excellent condition (plus there might be big savings to be made). Bringing together dresses from brands like, Monsoon, Karen Millen and Ted Baker, eBay has launched a pre-loved wedding hub. Keoghan adds: “Bridesmaids can look to the hub to find unique options from the high-street, to high-end, that increase the lifespan of the dress, for a fraction of the retail price.” 5. Satin no more Traditionally, bridesmaid dresses often had a silk or satin finish, but recently there’s been a trend for different materials and textures. “In particular, velvet dresses have emerged as a front runner in autumn and winter weddings, as a fabric which adds a new layer of elegance and luxe to the bridal party, while also providing a bit of warmth for the person wearing it,” says Keoghan. “Taking it a step further, we expect to see more bridal party styling to feature dresses which are made from an array of fabrics, whether it’s velvet, lace or chiffon.” 6. Style over symmetry New Look Pale Grey Satin One Shoulder Ruched Maxi Dress, £45.99“One shoulder silhouettes are set to take over weddings this summer – it is definitely the bridesmaid shape of 2023,” Menghini says. “Perfect for summer weddings, the asymmetric shape is stylish and sleek and is such a flattering shape.” Also, multi-way maxi dresses are a stylish solution for bridesmaids – the ribbon ties can be fashioned into an asymmetric neckline. How should you style a one-shoulder dress? “Accessories can be pretty minimal, as the neckline is the star of the show,” says Menghini. “Steer clear of necklaces and stick with simple earrings, rings and a bracelet.” Read More Charity boss speaks out over ‘traumatic’ encounter with royal aide Ukraine war’s heaviest fight rages in east - follow live Experts share 8 healthy habits to help you live longer Husband fired from family business after wife roleplayed with reborn dolls George Alagiah: What are the signs of bowel cancer?
2023-07-25 15:20
Experts share 8 healthy habits to help you live longer
Experts share 8 healthy habits to help you live longer
Eight habits that could help people live more than 20 years longer have been identified by researchers. While it’s long been known that certain lifestyle factors can influence lifespan, the American study isolated the eight factors that have the biggest impact – being physically active, being free from opioid addiction, not smoking, managing stress, having a good diet, not regularly binge drinking, having good sleep hygiene, and having positive social relationships. The research was presented at Nutrition 2023, the annual meeting of the American Society for Nutrition, and used data from 719,147 people enrolled in the Veterans Affairs Million Veteran Program. It found low physical activity, opioid use and smoking were associated with around a 30-45 per cent higher risk of death, while stress, binge drinking, poor diet, and poor sleep hygiene were each associated with around a 20 per cent increase, and lack of positive social relationships was linked with a 5% increased risk of dying. Men who had all eight habits at age 40 were predicted to live an average 24 years longer than men with none of the habits, according to the findings, and women with all eight habits in middle age were predicted to live an extra 21 years, compared with women with none of the habits. Xuan-Mai Nguyen, health science specialist at the Department of Veterans Affairs, said: “We were really surprised by just how much could be gained with the adoption of one, two, three, or all eight lifestyle factors. Our research findings suggest that adopting a healthy lifestyle is important for both public health and personal wellness. The earlier the better, but even if you only make a small change in your 40s, 50s, or 60s, it still is beneficial.” The researchers say the findings highlight how lifestyle factors contribute to chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes and heart disease, which are associated with premature disability and death. How to embrace the eight healthy habits Inspired to give your own lifestyle a boost? “If making these small but mighty adjustments could help you to live for an extra 20 years, maybe it’s time to make those changes,” says life and wellbeing coach, Natalie Trice. She shares the following insights and tips… 1. Do more exercise Regular exercise can help prevent a wide range of major diseases – plus it’s great for keeping stress levels in check. “Going for a walk, having a swim, running with friends, even just a good old dance-off in the kitchen can get your heartbeat up and those feel-good endorphins pumping – so get your trainers on and start moving,” says Trice. 2. Manage stress Trice suggests adopting simple stress-busting practices such as mindfulness meditation, and enjoying hobbies and sports. “These can profoundly impact overall wellbeing, as you bring your stress levels down,” she says. “This isn’t about pretending everything’s great, but rather looking at easy habits you can adopt that will take down the stress, which can lead to anxiety and burnout.” 3. Don’t smoke Quitting smoking is an essential step in improving health and potentially adding years to your life. Trice points out that while some people may think reaching for a cigarette takes the edge off their stress, there are healthier ways to cope. “Maybe going running or taking up yoga could be the release and focus you need, and one that will help you live longer, smell fresher and feel better,” she suggests. “Also, with the cost of cigarettes going up all the time, giving up will free up cash for the things in life that really need to be paid for.”If you are struggling to quit smoking, talk to your GP about options available to help. 4. Don’t binge drink “By cutting down on booze, you’re doing your body and brain a massive favour,” says Trice. “Drinking every night will impact your body and could affect your sleep and work performance. Enjoy life, but if you want to enjoy it for longer, then keep tabs on your drinking.” Official guidelines suggest drinking no more than 14 units of alcohol a week (equivalent to six medium glasses of wine of six pints of beer), spread across at least three days. 5. Eat healthily Generally speaking, a balanced diet that’s rich in fibre, whole grains, fruit and veg and lean protein, with heavily processed and sugary foods kept to a minimum, is linked with better health. “We all know about eating five-a-day but doing this can be tough if you’re busy with family and work. If you can start to do this, you’ll feel better,” says Trice. “Focus on eating regularly and thinking about what you put in your body, so that it works for you, not against you.” 6. Don’t take drugs Recreational drugs can harm health in a number of ways. Trice suggests those affected start by speaking to a trusted friend or their GP, and “look at the support which could not only extend your life, but save it”. 7. Try to get good sleep Trice says: “It’s vital that we look at getting a decent night’s sleep, as this can help you feel so much better. Making sure you have a sleep routine in place can be helpful and can be as easy as having no screens in the bedroom, having a bath or shower before you hit the sack, as well as making sure the temperature is right and you have curtains to keep the light out in the mornings.” 8. Nurture positive social relationshipsTrice observes: “If you’re able to nurture a supportive network of friends, colleagues and family, this can lead to improved mental and emotional wellbeing and a longer life.” Lacking social connections? Look at local volunteering opportunities and community walks and groups. Making friends can take time, but even finding ways to regularly spend time and interact with others can help. Read More My Taylor Swift exercise class has led me down a luxury fitness rabbit hole Husband fired from family business after wife roleplayed with reborn dolls Harry and Meghan Markle accused of snubbing Montecito neighbour Charity boss speaks out over ‘traumatic’ encounter with royal aide Ukraine war’s heaviest fight rages in east - follow live
2023-07-25 14:58
My Taylor Swift exercise class has led me down a luxury fitness rabbit hole
My Taylor Swift exercise class has led me down a luxury fitness rabbit hole
Amid flashing strobe lights at a SoulCycle class in Notting Hill, our instructor MJ stands on a platform, his baseball cap flipped backward and his facial hair trimmed into designer stubble, looking as if he’s straight out of a boy band. “I’ve had a f***ing s*** day and I didn’t want to come to work,” he says, softly, through his head mic. “But I’m so glad I did, as the energy is bringing me to life!” Everyone around me – women between the ages of 25 and 35, all of them dressed in one-shoulder leisurewear – roars in response. “Sit up tall, don’t let anyone make you feel down,” MJ continues. “You’re all legends, don’t let anybody judge you!” I pause for breath after yet another manic burst of energy cycling on the spot. Then we have to pick up dumbbells while atop stationary bikes and do a choreographed workout to a Taylor Swift song. This special Swift-themed class is taking place at 8.30 on a Monday night and in the same venue where First Lady Jill Biden and Rishi Sunak’s wife Akshata Murty attended a spinning class together after King Charles’s coronation in May – reportedly with 10 security guards in tow. I feel slightly out of my depth. I spent two hours looking for my lycra leggings and I’m totally unfit. Apart from walking my dog, I haven’t done any real exercise since 2017, when I had a go at clean eating and did a few weeks of high-intensity training at the gym. But now I’m ready for SoulCycle’s “unique mind-body-soul experience”. This leap back into exercise is partly inspired by Apple TV+’s dark comedy Physical, which is returning for its final season next month. It’s about a housewife played by Rose Byrne who battles her demons and a vicious and self-critical inner voice while finding solace in aerobics. Could it work for me, too? Is exercise the answer to my endlessly spinning mind? Would it serve as an instant catapult into a world of empowerment and success? Everyone in this class knows the words to every Taylor Swift song that booms from the speakers. “Drop everything now/Meet me in the pouring rain”, she sings on “Sparks Fly”. “Kiss me on the sidewalk/Take away the pain.” But all I can think about is the pain I’m currently in. We’re wearing special shoes that click into the pedals of the bike, so it’s not easy to detach oneself. But soon I become grateful for it: if I’m superglued into this class, I can’t give up so easily. As MJ says: “No struggle... no progress”. It doesn’t matter if you can’t move the wheel at the front of the SoulCycle bike, or if you’re peddling down on it like a gazelle; if you’re sweating and panting, you’re part of this love-in. And wow, it feels great. I’m not alone in adoring it, and some of my fellow riders were here even earlier, for “part one” of a class modelled after Swift’s setlist on her current US tour. (Each class costs £26, while a renewable package of four is £86, or eight at £160). It’s a little pocket of joy I knew nothing about while I was sitting at home snacking in front of my laptop and gaining weight. As I leave the SoulCycle studio and wander into the night, I take a deep breath. It feels good to be back in the saddle – even though my legs are like jelly. I have to ask my friend to drive me home because I’m not sure I’ll make it on foot. There are a few reasons I haven’t been hitting the gym, or even doing the occasional relaxed yoga class. Having children on my own has been an intense journey. For years my idea of exercise has been holding a baby or running after two kids in a park with an unruly dog. But when I read a few different headlines lately (“Fit and fabulous at 54: Jennifer Aniston emerges from her new workout class”; “Nicole Kidman, 56, flashes her incredible abs in revealing black dress”), I felt a pang of guilt. These women are older than me but super fit. My daughters, aged five and seven, are both at school now, so there’s no excuse for being so inactive. I had some blood tests done and my cholesterol is creeping up. I’ve been told I need to give up sugar and take up exercise. How can I be a good role model to my kids if all they do is see me eating the chocolate rolls meant for their pack lunches? And where do I even begin with fitness? After the excitement of my Taylor Swift class, the idea of strolling along to my local Virgin Active feels mundane. I ponder whether it’d be easier to stay fit if I was super-rich. I can see myself signing up for four workout sessions rigged up to an electrical current. Because why not? I can’t possibly afford the bespoke, members-only gym Bodyism in London’s Westbourne Grove, whose clients include heiress Tamara Ecclestone. It caters for high-intensity, low-impact training, with top-tier packages costing £23,000 a year. More affordable, though, is their class membership – which costs £1,500 a year for 72 classes and promises to help elongate and tone the body. But it’s also full of the clean-eating squad – I might not fit in. Then there’s London’s BXR, a private, boutique boxing-themed gym that’s spread over two floors. From the street below I can glimpse a massive boxing ring behind enormous glass panels – a manifestation of the idea that celebrities feel they live in a goldfish bowl. It’s also packed with A-listers who get free guest passes while staying at the luxury hotel Chiltern Firehouse that’s located opposite. Membership costs from £2,500 a year and up (by a lot), and the Vogue editor Edward Enniful and fashion designer Julian Macdonald are apparently fans of BXR’s Versaclimbing – a high-intensity, low-impact workout on a Versaclimber. This cardio fitness machine has a 75-degree vertical rail with pedals and handles that mimic the natural motion of climbing. When I hear that the machine burns up to 800 calories in a 45-minute session – well, I’m on the phone to the bookings team in a flash. Unlike treadmill or spin classes, it’s exercise that is full body but low impact – meaning it “minimises unnecessary stress or trauma to your body”. At the state of the art Repose, a wellness clinic in London’s High Street Kensington with members including Made in Chelsea’s Millie Mackintosh, the speciality is “anti-gravity fitness”. It might sound unusual to exercise from a silk hammock suspended from the ceiling for £40 a class – but sessions include pilates, suspension fitness, air bar and both restorative and aerial yoga. Models and celebrities, including Poppy Delevingne, are also queuing up for personal training at London’s E-Pulsive, which costs £85 a session. The electrical muscle stimulation class (EMS) sees you strap yourself into a full-body vest that zaps you with low-frequency electric impulses to manually contract your muscle fibres while you exercise, increasing the intensity of your workout. It seems ideal for people like me who are too busy to exercise but who want superfast results – apparently, a 20-minute EMS workout burns 500 calories and can offer the same results as a 90-minute high-intensity gym class. It sounds like heaven. Then there’s roller-skating at model Liberty Ross’ glamorous Flipper’s Roller Boogie Palace in West London or New York – the original LA Flipper’s in the 1970s was run by Ross’s dad Ian Flipper-Ross, and was so associated with glam fitness that it was dubbed “Studio 54 on wheels”. A one-to-one beginner’s class at the new skate school costs £50, or £35 in a group lesson of up to 12 skaters. Or you can just book in for a general skate with your kids – which kills two birds with one stone as they have fun while you burn calories. A two-hour skate session for adults starts from £15.50 and from £11.50 for children. All of this sounds great – but if I went for a workout schedule of my choice, I can’t see it totalling less than £30,000 a year. Bearing in mind that exercise is addictive and makes you feel good, it might be far more in the long run, too. It’s also a tad out of my price range – I don’t plan on dropping into Equinox on Kensington Roof Gardens or the Bulgari Hotel gym any time soon. Instead, I can see myself signing up for four workout sessions rigged up to an electrical current. Because why not? If money wasn’t an obstacle, I would install a gym and a pilates studio in my own house, with a cryotherapy chamber and a personal trainer on tap. But until then, I plan to start running with the dog, my two kids behind me on their scooters. It’s far cheaper and – unlike the late-night Taylor Swift class – won’t require a babysitter. Read More I keep forgetting my dog’s birthday – could a luxury pet party make it up to him? ‘I’m here anyway, why not?’: My non-surgical facelift has got me thinking about more procedures I’ve never had a platonic relationship with a man – sex can’t help but get in the way Husband fired from family business after wife roleplayed with reborn dolls Montana Brown explains why she chose a home birth as a ‘non-white person’ 8 healthy habits to help you live longer – according to a new study
2023-07-25 13:49
10 Strange and Surprisingly Specific National Park Rules
10 Strange and Surprisingly Specific National Park Rules
National Park rules go beyond the general Leave No Trace guidelines. These surprising cover everything from wildlife to waste.
2023-07-25 06:15
Spotify raises premium subscription price for millions
Spotify raises premium subscription price for millions
For the first time since 2011, Spotify confirms a price hike for about 200m ad-free subscribers.
2023-07-25 05:57
In 'Barbie,' 'Oppenheimer' smash success, audiences send message to Hollywood: Give us something new
In 'Barbie,' 'Oppenheimer' smash success, audiences send message to Hollywood: Give us something new
In the massive movie weekend of “Barbie” and “Oppenheimer,” there were many winners
2023-07-25 05:23
Woman goes viral with custom-made ‘Barbenheimer’ outfit for double-feature: ‘Flawless’
Woman goes viral with custom-made ‘Barbenheimer’ outfit for double-feature: ‘Flawless’
A woman has stunned movie-goers after she showed off her custom-made outfit for back-to-back screenings of Barbie and Oppenheimer. This weekend, the simultaneous release of Barbie and Oppenheimer on 21 July made around $235.5m at the domestic box office. Ahead of opening weekend, many fans affectionately nicknamed the double-billing as “Barbenheimer” and shared their plans to see one movie right after the other. Such was the case for one fan, who went viral on Twitter after she shared her two-in-one look, fitting for both the pink-filled Greta Gerwig movie and the Christopher Nolan biopic. The Twitter user – who goes by Danielle – posted a video of herself standing in front of an Oppenheimer movie poster, dressed in a black sleeveless jumpsuit with a black studded belt. As she strutted through the movie theatre lobby, she then ripped off the belt and unclasped the black jumpsuit to reveal a hot pink outfit underneath, complete with a Western-inspired tassel neckline. Danielle spun around before hopping into a life-size Barbie box that was on display in the corner of the theatre for photos. Danielle’s “Barbenheimer” look received nearly 150,000 views on Twitter, where fans praised the designer for the ultimate double-feature outfit. “Flawless,” one user replied, while another person wrote: “Ate and left no crumbs” “We can all stop, this is the best post. Nothing else is allowed,” tweeted one fan. “I just want Barbenheimer to go on forever. It’s making me so happy,” wrote someone else. Others pointed out how the double release of Barbie and Oppenheimer has allowed many people to showcase their creativity and fashion talents. “I love seeing how creative people are and just have fun,” said one user. “Genuinely wish there were way more socially acceptable opportunities to dress up and get really creative with an outfit / costume as an adult,” someone else wrote. “There’s only really Halloween parties and rare events like this. People should be able to dress up whenever they please and not be judged.” A third person said: “You know if there’s one thing that the Eras Tour, Renaissance World Tour, and Barbenheimer have shown us in the last six months, it’s that people are taking every opportunity to have fun and dress up and I just think that’s neat.” Speaking to The Wrap, Danielle revealed that her “Barbenheimer” outfit was inspired by RuPaul’s Drag Race season seven winner Violet Chachki, who did a similar two-in-one outfit reveal in 2015. “Violet was my blueprint – I’m obsessed with all of her looks!” she told the outlet, adding that she acquired the fabrics for her outfit from Mood Fabrics in New York City. “It’s overwhelming how amazing their store is and just how many fabrics they have. I pulled an all-nighter and constructed the entire garment the night before my Saturday double feature, but bought the fabrics and supplies a week before.” Danielle also shared that she watched Oppenheimer, starring Cillian Murphy, before the Margot Robbie comedy. “We saw Oppenheimer first. Wanted to end the day with some laughs since Oppenheimer is so intense,” she said. Fellow “Barbenheimer” viewers have wondered what order to view both Barbie and Oppenheimer, considering their radically different tones. Some have argued that the lighter tone of Barbie would make it a good pallette cleanser after the intensity of Oppenheimer, like Barbie star Issa Rae. “I want to have mimosas and drinks and cocktails after Barbie, I don’t want to, like, sulk,” she said during a red carpet interview. West Side Story star Rachel Zegler agreed, writing on Twitter: “I think it’ll be Barbie first because I think Oppenheimer will hurt my brain and I would rather not be thinking about it during Barbie.” Others have claimed that the heavy content of Nolan’s film would overshadow the levity of Barbie. Film critic Scott Mantz wrote: “Now that I’ve seen #BARBENHEIMER, I highly recommend watching #BARBIE first, then #OPPENHEIMER! Barbie is really fun, but Oppenheimer stays with you - you don’t wanna be thinking about Oppenheimer while watching Barbie! (Or maybe you do?)” Following the Barbie movie release, the Greta Gerwig film broke the domestic box office record for biggest opening weekend ever for a female director. Read More Barbie vs Oppenheimer: Greta Gerwig makes history with biggest box office opening for a female director Barbie on track to earn biggest ever box office opening for non-superhero film What order should you watch Barbie and Oppenheimer in? Ben Shapiro mocked for dressing like Ken amid furious rants against Barbie movie America Ferrera points out ‘revolutionary’ detail in original Barbie Dreamhouse America Ferrera reveals her guilty pleasure is ‘not showering for a few days’
2023-07-25 02:45
Bethenny Frankel criticises TJ Maxx after purchasing fake Manolo Blahnik shoes from store: ‘Such a scandal’
Bethenny Frankel criticises TJ Maxx after purchasing fake Manolo Blahnik shoes from store: ‘Such a scandal’
Bethenny Frankel has criticised TJ Maxx for allegedly selling fake designer shoes, with the reality TV star condemning the retailer over the “scam”. The former Real Housewives of New York City star, 52, reflected on her purchase of what turned out to be fake Manolo Blahnik heels in a series of videos uploaded to her TikTok and Instagram accounts. In the first video, uploaded last week, Frankel was shopping in TJ Maxx along with her fiancé Paul when she came across a pair of pink heels, which were labelled Manolo Blahnik. In the video, the reality star-turned-influencer could be seen trying on the $869 shoes in the store, before telling viewers: “These are coming home with me”. However, Frankel realised that the shoes were likely fake after a TikToker named Jack Savoie stitched her TikTok and informed her that the heels were knockoffs. In Savoie’s clip, he began: “Wait, Bethenny babe, those are fake Manolos. I swear these Manolos are fake and they’re at TJ Maxx.” In the TikTok, Savoie acknowledged that TJ Maxx sells designer goods, before claiming that the shoes purchased specifically by Frankel are “fake Manolos”. He then shared his reasoning behind the claim, with the TikToker pointing out the off-centre stitching of the shoe’s label, the difference in font from authentic Manolo heels, and the difference in material used for the sole of the shoe. “Trust me, I sold shoes. I used to sell Manolos. I know this,” the TikToker continued, before concluding: “Bethenny, I think you need to go return those shoes. These are fake. As soon as I saw this, I immediately knew that they were fake.” @jack.savoie #stitch with @Bethenny Frankel #greenscreen GURL these are fake manolos!!!! ♬ original sound - Jack Savoie The video prompted a response from Frankel, who described the realisation as a “scandal”. “This is SUCH a scandal. First, they are only $1,000 retail. That’s a scam to begin with. Second! I JUST ordered the real ones online and will compare,” she wrote in the comments under the video. In the comments, the reality star also noted that it was “weird” that the size 40 fit her “perfectly” when she is typically a size 39. On Bergdorf Goodman’s website, the Manolo Blahnik Hangisimu Satin Crystal Buckle Mules retail for $1,095. Over the weekend, Frankel addressed the situation in a follow-up video, where she described it as the “most effed-up thing yet”. “This is the most effed-up thing yet. Okay, follow Jack Savoie. He did a video after I posted … my 70th video about TJ Maxx, promoting them to the tunes of millions of dollars and followers,” Frankel began. The TV personality then held up the shoes she’d purchased from the retailer, while describing all of the issues Savoie had pointed out with the heels. Frankel then expressed her anger as she noted that she’s “bought tonnes of sh** from” TJ Maxx and that the “prices aren’t great”. @bethennyfrankel Thank you @Jack Savoie #fake #counterfeit #tjmaxx #fakeluxury #fakeluxurygoods #truth #unfluenced #influencer ♬ original sound - Bethenny Frankel “I’ve said that before. There will be an $1,800 bag retail and they’ll have it for $1,500. Sometimes I like the item, I’m in there. The psychology is to feel like it’s a treasure hunt, so you’re finding something. And I love the store,” she continued, before noting that “never did [she] think that there could be a fake product”. In the video, Frankel then revealed that she reached out to TJ Maxx and showed the retailer Savoie’s video, and that, in response, the company told her that it “did not purchase this particular shoe”. “It’s something that rarely happens, with a counterfeit return,” Frankel continued, while noting that Savoie is “amazing” for pointing out the flaws with the fake version of the heels. According to Frankel, the store asked her to provide her receipt, which she said she didn’t have because she doesn’t “return things to TJ Maxx for the most part,” and that the company said it would refund her the money she’d paid. “By the way, the shoes are $1,000 at Bergdorf’s and it was weird that a 40 did fit me,” she said. As for her response to the company’s response, she told viewers: “I effectively, without cursing, said to them: ‘Eff that. No. A, I don’t have the receipt and next, you’re going to send me a larger check.’” After reiterating that she’s already purchased an authentic pair of the heels from Bergdorf Goodman for $1,000, Frankel revealed that she would be keeping the counterfeit shoes. “I’m going to wear these fake counterfeit shoes with pride because I own them now, but do not buy luxury goods at TJ Maxx,” she concluded, before noting that the “original retailer is the safest”. In the comments under her video, Frankel’s followers shared their appreciation for her clarification, and for candidly calling out the retailer. “That’s wild, I would never even think to check stuff from there is real,” one person commented, while another said: “Thank you for always sharing and your honesty in calling someone out when needed!” In a statement to Insider, a spokesperson for TJ Maxx said the company “stands behind the merchandise” it sells before noting that it “sincerely regrets” Frankel’s recent experience. “We believe that this may have been an instance of return fraud, in which an individual returned an item to our store that was not purchased at one of our stores. This unfortunately happens in retail from time to time,” the company said, adding that it has reached out to Frankel “directly” to “work to resolve her concerns”. The Independent has contacted TJ Maxx for comment. Read More Bethenny Frankel accuses reality TV of ‘exploiting’ its stars amid SAG-AFTRA strike Bethenny Frankel claims Jonah Hill made her feel ‘like a loser’ amid emotional abuse allegations Bethenny Frankel responds to joke about her in season two of And Just Like That Schoolboy almost dies from swallowing magnets for TikTok challenge Woman shares honest review of New York City apartment TikTok mom slammed after making 5-year-old son run in 104 degree heat
2023-07-25 02:26
Ben Shapiro mocked for dressing like Ken amid furious rants against Barbie movie
Ben Shapiro mocked for dressing like Ken amid furious rants against Barbie movie
The internet is roasting Ben Shapiro after he watched the Barbie movie wearing an outfit that was almost identical to the one Ryan Gosling wears as Ken. On 21 July, the conservative commentator tweeted a photo of himself inside a movie theatre where he attended a screening of the new Barbie film, which stars Margot Robbie as the titular Barbie doll and Ryan Gosling as her paramour, Ken. “My producers dragged me to see ‘Barbie’ and it was one of the most woke movies I have ever seen,” Shapiro wrote on Twitter, alongside a photo of himself wearing a black T-shirt tucked into a pair of black pants with a matching black belt. “My full review of this flaming garbage heap of a film will be out on my YouTube channel tomorrow at 10am ET.” Unsurprisingly, it didn’t take long for many Barbie fans to point out that Shapiro was seemingly wearing the exact outfit that Gosling wears as Ken during the film’s musical performance of “I’m Just Ken”. “You hated it so much you cosplayed as a Ken,” replied one user on Twitter. “My brother in Christ, you are wearing a Ken cosplay,” another person joked. “I hated it so much I had to dress like ken and get a cute outfit photo with the movie poster,” a third person said, while someone else wrote: “Ken Shapiro out here pretending he was ‘dragged’ to this movie while giving full Kenergy.” Despite his accidental Ken fashion moment, Ben Shapiro proceeded to post a 43-minute scathing review about the “woke” Warner Bros film. “Well, folks, wasting two hours of my precious time, two hours I will never get back, two hours around my deathbed I will wish that I had not spent that time doing. It makes me viscerally angry,” he said, waving a notepad at the viewers and setting fire to a Barbie doll in the clip. Shapiro condemned Gosling’s portrayal of Ken as “annoying and ridiculous” and criticised the film for including a transgender Barbie character, played by actor Hari Nef. The conservative commentator argued that many parts of the film are too mature for a younger audience, as he claimed that his theatre was full of “youngish and middle-aged moms” with their “six, seven and eight-year-old girls”. He also refuted that the real world in the film has a patriarchal system, and pointed to the women-centric cast and crew of Barbie. “I mean, Greta Gerwig is a lady. She’s making a good living off of this,” Shapiro said. “Margot Robbie is playing the lead. In fact, the entire cast aside from basically Ryan Gosling is women, so it seems like women are doing okay.” Ben Shapiro isn’t the only conservative to share their Barbie hot takes. Last week, Republican congressman Matt Gaetz and his wife Ginger Gaetz attended the red carpet premiere of Barbie at the British Embassy in Washington, DC. After the Barbie screening, his wife took to Twitter to share her list of critiques, including that the film “neglects to address any notion of faith or family” and that it contained “disappointingly low T from Ken”. “Thinking about watching the Barbie movie? I’d recommend sticking to getting outfit inspiration and skipping the theater,” she tweeted. “Here’s why: The Barbie I grew up with was a representation of limitless possibilities, embracing diverse careers and feminine empowerment. The 2023 Barbie movie, unfortunately, neglects to address any notion of faith or family, and tries to normalize the idea that men and women can’t collaborate positively (yuck).” Ginger Gaetz concluded her Barbie review by listing what she felt were the pros and cons of the movie. “Pros: Margot Robbie’s performance, Stunning costume design, Amazing soundtrack,” she wrote. “Cons: Unfortunate portrayal of big dreams causing anxiety instead of inspiration, Disappointingly low T from Ken, Unfair treatment of pregnant Barbie Midge.” Despite Barbie’s negative reviews from conservative commentators calling the newly-released film “woke”, the live-action movie is estimated to amass more than $300m (£233m) internationally, making it the most successful opening of an original non-superhero film ever. Read More Ben Shapiro mocked for posting 43-minute video rant about Barbie movie as he sets fire to doll Barbie on track to earn biggest ever box office opening for non-superhero film With ‘Barbie,’ Greta Gerwig breaks a box office record for female directors America Ferrera points out ‘revolutionary’ detail in original Barbie Dreamhouse America Ferrera reveals her guilty pleasure is ‘not showering for a few days’ Mattel accused of ‘stealth marketing’ after giving away free Barbie dolls in schools
2023-07-25 01:57
Montana Brown says she chose a home birth because ‘hospital isn’t the safest place for non-white people’
Montana Brown says she chose a home birth because ‘hospital isn’t the safest place for non-white people’
Montana Brown has revealed that she chose to have a home birth when welcoming her son Jude last month because she felt that hospitals are not “the safest place” for non-white people. The former Love Island star, 27, shared a YouTube vlog about her pregnancy and birth plan recently to answer questions from followers about her experience. She opened up about her decision to have a home birth, adding that she hired a doula, a trained professional who supports women through labour and birth, as well as through post-partum. Brown, who is mixed race and has Japanese and Jamaican heritage, said she “can’t wait” for her home birth. She filmed her vlog before giving birth to Jude in June. “I feel like hospital isn’t the safest place to give birth and I know people are gonna be like, ‘What the f***, you’re an idiot’ but I just think it’s personal preference,” she told her followers. “Also, I just think as a non-white person, it’s not the safest place to be in hospital in childbirth. All these things I’ve thought about for a long time. We’re also having a doula, which I’m really excited about.” In the UK, Black women are nearly four times more likely to die in pregnancy and childbirth than white women, according to a report published by MBRRACE-UK (Mothers and Babies: Reducing Risk through Audits and Confidential Enquiries across the UK) in 2022. The study found that there was a slight drop in the maternal mortality rate for Black women between 2018 and 2020. It also found that Asian women are around twice as likely to die in pregnancy and childbirth than white women. In a 2021 response, the government said it was “committed to reducing disparities in health outcomes and experience of care”. Brown, who is engaged to fiancé Mark O’Connor, said she asked for advice on a home birth from The Only Way Is Essex (Towie) star Sam Faiers, who she called the “queen of home birthing”. “It’s just fantastic… She’s helping me feel really set in my decision,” she said. Replying to a fan who asked if she felt afraid of giving birth, Brown said had the “most positive mindset ever”, and would continue to do so even if she had to have a “C-section, an epidural, or wound up in hospital”. The reality star and her fiancé welcomed baby Jude on 23 June. Last week, she opened up about the struggle to get pregnant despite being in her twenties and said she was surprised it took her so long to conceive. Speaking on the Happy Mum Happy Baby podcast, Brown told host Giovanna Fletcher that she thought “something was wrong” with her when she and O’Connor first started trying for a baby. “I thought, ‘We’re young, this is going to be really easy’… For the first four months, we’d used ovulation sticks, and then I’d do a pregnancy test and it’d be negative,” she recalled. After both she and her partner went to check their fertility, they discovered she had “no oestrogen and no testosterone”, which made her realise that people “can be young, fit and healthy, and still really, really struggle to conceive”. Announcing her son’s birth, Brown shared a black-and-white photograph of the newborn being cradled against her chest on Instagram and wrote: “Welcome to the world Jude Isaiah O’Connor. We’re so smitten with you little man.” The couple announced their engagement in April, after O’Connor proposed to her in Bermuda. They first met in 2020. Brown featured in series three of Love Island and was coupled up with Alex Beattie at the end. They broke up shortly after leaving the villa. Read More Ruth Handler: The Barbie inventor who revolutionalised prosthetic breasts and narrowly avoided prison Woman praised for response to airline employee who asked her to swap first class seat with child Fans defend Prince Harry and Meghan Markle amid breakup rumours 8 healthy habits to help you live longer – according to a new study The bowel cancer symptom George Alagiah wished he’d caught earlier George Alagiah: What are the signs of bowel cancer?
2023-07-24 22:47
8 healthy habits to help you live longer – according to a new study
8 healthy habits to help you live longer – according to a new study
Eight habits that could help people live more than 20 years longer have been identified by researchers. While it’s long been known that certain lifestyle factors can influence lifespan, the American study isolated the eight factors that have the biggest impact – being physically active, being free from opioid addiction, not smoking, managing stress, having a good diet, not regularly binge drinking, having good sleep hygiene, and having positive social relationships. The research was presented at Nutrition 2023, the annual meeting of the American Society for Nutrition, and used data from 719,147 people enrolled in the Veterans Affairs Million Veteran Program. It found low physical activity, opioid use and smoking were associated with around a 30-45% higher risk of death, while stress, binge drinking, poor diet, and poor sleep hygiene were each associated with around a 20% increase, and lack of positive social relationships was linked with a 5% increased risk of dying. Men who had all eight habits at age 40 were predicted to live an average 24 years longer than men with none of the habits, according to the findings, and women with all eight habits in middle age were predicted to live an extra 21 years, compared with women with none of the habits. Xuan-Mai Nguyen, health science specialist at the Department of Veterans Affairs, said: “We were really surprised by just how much could be gained with the adoption of one, two, three, or all eight lifestyle factors. Our research findings suggest that adopting a healthy lifestyle is important for both public health and personal wellness. The earlier the better, but even if you only make a small change in your 40s, 50s, or 60s, it still is beneficial.” The researchers say the findings highlight how lifestyle factors contribute to chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes and heart disease, which are associated with premature disability and death. How to embrace the eight healthy habits Inspired to give your own lifestyle a boost? “If making these small but mighty adjustments could help you to live for an extra 20 years, maybe it’s time to make those changes,” says life and wellbeing coach, Natalie Trice. She shares the following insights and tips… 1. Do more exerciseRegular exercise can help prevent a wide range of major diseases – plus it’s great for keeping stress levels in check. “Going for a walk, having a swim, running with friends, even just a good old dance-off in the kitchen can get your heartbeat up and those feel-good endorphins pumping – so get your trainers on and start moving,” says Trice. 2. Manage stressTrice suggests adopting simple stress-busting practices such as mindfulness meditation, and enjoying hobbies and sports. “These can profoundly impact overall wellbeing, as you bring your stress levels down,” she says. “This isn’t about pretending everything’s great, but rather looking at easy habits you can adopt that will take down the stress, which can lead to anxiety and burnout.” 3. Don’t smoke Quitting smoking is an essential step in improving health and potentially adding years to your life. Trice points out that while some people may think reaching for a cigarette takes the edge off their stress, there are healthier ways to cope. “Maybe going running or taking up yoga could be the release and focus you need, and one that will help you live longer, smell fresher and feel better,” she suggests. “Also, with the cost of cigarettes going up all the time, giving up will free up cash for the things in life that really need to be paid for.”If you are struggling to quit smoking, talk to your GP about options available to help. 4. Don’t binge drink“By cutting down on booze, you’re doing your body and brain a massive favour,” says Trice. “Drinking every night will impact your body and could affect your sleep and work performance. Enjoy life, but if you want to enjoy it for longer, then keep tabs on your drinking.” Official guidelines suggest drinking no more than 14 units of alcohol a week (equivalent to six medium glasses of wine of six pints of beer), spread across at least three days. 5. Eat healthily Generally speaking, a balanced diet that’s rich in fibre, whole grains, fruit and veg and lean protein, with heavily processed and sugary foods kept to a minimum, is linked with better health. “We all know about eating five-a-day but doing this can be tough if you’re busy with family and work. If you can start to do this, you’ll feel better,” says Trice. “Focus on eating regularly and thinking about what you put in your body, so that it works for you, not against you.” 6. Don’t take drugsRecreational drugs can harm health in a number of ways. Trice suggests those affected start by speaking to a trusted friend or their GP, and “look at the support which could not only extend your life, but save it”. 7. Try to get good sleep Trice says: “It’s vital that we look at getting a decent night’s sleep, as this can help you feel so much better. Making sure you have a sleep routine in place can be helpful and can be as easy as having no screens in the bedroom, having a bath or shower before you hit the sack, as well as making sure the temperature is right and you have curtains to keep the light out in the mornings.” 8. Nurture positive social relationshipsTrice observes: “If you’re able to nurture a supportive network of friends, colleagues and family, this can lead to improved mental and emotional wellbeing and a longer life.” Lacking social connections? Look at local volunteering opportunities and community walks and groups. Making friends can take time, but even finding ways to regularly spend time and interact with others can help. Read More Charity boss speaks out over ‘traumatic’ encounter with royal aide Ukraine war’s heaviest fight rages in east - follow live George Alagiah: What are the signs of bowel cancer? Carol Vorderman says she no longer sunbathes after health scare Carol Vorderman: Why my skin cancer scare means I no longer sunbathe
2023-07-24 21:51
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