Latest news with #fashionistas
The Guardian
5 hours ago
- Lifestyle
- The Guardian
Jess Cartner-Morley on fashion: High heels never really work in summer – it's the season to rock fabulous flats
Wearing high heels in summer never worked. We must have been mad! Pretty much everything that is lovely about summer is incompatible with wearing heels. Being outside in the garden or the park, where the grass is soft underfoot! Delightful, but hopeless if you have to balance on tiptoes to stop your heels from sinking into the ground. Walking instead of getting the bus, because it's so nice out! A seasonal treat, but only in comfy shoes. Summer weddings that start at 3pm and go on until the small hours! The absolute best, but murder with blisters. The beach! OK, we weren't ever sufficiently insane to wear heels on sand or pebbles. Still, you get my drift. The Guardian's journalism is independent. We will earn a commission if you buy something through an affiliate link. Learn more. I haven't sworn off heels for good, by the way. I think there was a time when lockdown broke my habit, but in the end I missed them. So when autumn comes around, I will relish pulling on my heeled boots for the first time. Come party season, I will hold fast to my belief that a really good night out starts with a shoe that gives a rush of visual pleasure and makes no concessions to being remotely sensible. But for the next couple of months, I have a strict flats-only policy. What's that? What about wedges, you ask? For some people, these represent the perfect compromise: they are steady on uneven ground, and comfortable to wear because your weight is fairly evenly distributed. But, look, can I be honest? They are just not very elegant. They make your feet enormous, which knocks your whole silhouette off balance, like wearing a comedy hat. They are also a bit of a weird shape, because that's what happens when you try to fit a square peg in a round hole. No. There is a flat shoe for every summer occasion, and there is an art to matching the shoe to the look. Not all flats are created equal: some elevate, and some don't. Because we are so accustomed to seeing heels as the glamorous option and flats as the practical alternative, we tend to lump all flats in together, and fail to notice that there is a world of difference between styles and shapes – both in the vibe they bring to an outfit and how they affect your silhouette. Bare and strappy looks casual, while enclosed is more formal – think of the contrast between a Birkenstock and a loafer. A minimal flat sandal can be fabulous for a summer party, but it needs to be elegant – good-quality leather with a nice pedicure reads very differently from plastic flip-flops and gnarly toes. If the toe is enclosed, the shape matters: a round toe is cute and girlish; an almond toe is more sophisticated. A flat shoe that has a sturdier construction and covers the top of your foot will read as masculine (a brogue, a loafer), while one that is flimsier and more cutaway gives femininity (a ballet pump). I like to think of myself as open-minded, but we all have our red lines, and one of mine is an ankle strap on a flat shoe. This cuts across your leg at the wrong place (visually, I mean; otherwise you've got it done up too tight, which is another matter entirely). This is not about your legs looking fat or short or whatever – we're not having that conversation any more, remember – it is just about what looks pleasing to the eye. If there is a Mary Jane-style strap across the top of your foot, then this will look best if it's closer to the toe than to the heel. Sign up to Inside Saturday The only way to get a look behind the scenes of the Saturday magazine. Sign up to get the inside story from our top writers as well as all the must-read articles and columns, delivered to your inbox every weekend. after newsletter promotion Snazzy embellishments that might look gaudy on a high heel look brilliant on a flat, because a flat shoe needs to show some ambition. It can take detail or colour, shine or eyelets. An element of elevation, if you like. What it boils down to, really, is this: flat shoes don't have to be basic. Sometimes we make the mistake of thinking that the choice is between dressing up nice – in heels – and 'just' wearing flats. When, in fact, the only sensible way to do summer is no heel, but all glamour. This is the season to be flat-out fabulous. Model: Amaka at Milk. Hair and makeup: Sophie Higginson using Ouai and Dr Sam's. Dress, £79, Nobody's Child. Necklace, £142, Ottoman Hands. Bag, £36, River Island. Pumps, £59.99, Zara
The Sun
17-07-2025
- Entertainment
- The Sun
Parents flock to popular UK supermarket as price of Bluey Crocs is slashed to just £4.50
A POPULAR supermarket has slashed the price of the viral Bluey Crocs, sending parents into a frenzy. Shoppers are racing to a supermarket to get their hands on the much-loved footwear after the epic price drop to less than a fiver. Bluey clothing and footwear has become all the rage amongst our little fashionistas and if your tot has been begging for new Crocs, it's worth popping down to Sainsbury's. According to cash-savvy parents, the mega retailer is now selling their viral Bluey Crocs for an absolute bargain price. Before the price reductions, customers would've had to fork out £9 for the kids-loved clogs - but now, they're going for as little as £4. Amongst the items currently on sale are Blue Butterfly Badge Ankle Strap Clogs, slashed half-price to just £4. A practical yet stylish addition to children's summer footwear, this pair of blue clogs has been designed with butterfly badge details on the upper part. Boasting flexibility and added comfort, the bargain clogs have been made with an ankle strap for a secure fit - so your little one can run around freely. However, those keen to snap up the adorable clogs will have to be quick, as many sizes are already out of stock. Another viral buy currently on sale is a pair of Bluey Stone Ankle Strap Clogs, originally going for £9 and now slashed to just £4.50. They're designed in a neutral stone colour with fun character details throughout. Finished with an optional ankle strap - perfect for all occasions. CBeebies show Bluey in shake up as bosses make exciting change With an impressive five-star rating online, it's easy to see why so many customers have been loving these cute clogs. One nan who gave the Crocs the maximum of five stars said: ''I bought these for my twin grandchildren who are 2years old, they absolutely love them. ''The clogs are well made, comfy and great fun.'' A mum wrote: ''Look comfortable and fit well. My 2 year old can get them on by himself and now wants to wear them all the time.'' What is Bluey and why are kids obsessed with it? BLUEY has become a fan-favourite series across the globe. Created and released on ABC in Australia, it also airs internationally on Disney+. The series follows the Heelers, an adorable dog family living in Australia. Bluey takes the lead alongside her mum Chilli, dad Bandit and sister Bingo. Bluey has become essential viewing for preschoolers and their parents. Shown in 60 countries across the world, it was the most-streamed series in January and February and the second most viewed programme in the US in 2023. It has even attracted a host of famous fans. Hollywood actresses Natalie Portman and Eva Mendes have made cameos and Aussie stars Kylie and Dannii Minogue have voiced a spin-off audiobook. On why the family show is so popular, Dannii has said: 'There is life before Bluey, and life after. Once you know Bluey . . . you are hooked. 'It is fun for so many ages, as we can all relate to different members of Bluey's family.' Its success has also spawned a theme park in Australia, its own land at Alton Towers and stage show spin-offs. Podcast couple Chris and Rosie Ramsey admitted being in tears at the end of the extra-long one-off episode. A fellow gran chimed in: ''Absolutely brilliant got them for my great grandson and he loves them.'' Someone else said: ''These were very sweet clogs but were to big for my granddaughter she is inbetween sizes. Very nicely made.'' The epic deal was spotted and shared on Facebook by bargain hunter Amelia Jackson who uploaded snaps of the adorable buys on the popular Extreme Couponing and Bargains UK group. Informing others about the offer, she said in the post: ''Tu sale £4 for the sandals and £4.50 for the crocs.'' Dozens of Facebook users flocked to comments to tag their friends and family, as others thanked Amelia for sharing the news. ''Thanks just got a whole load of Bluey stuff on sale,'' a delighted shopper wrote.
The Sun
11-07-2025
- Entertainment
- The Sun
Sainsbury's flowy dress is ‘perfect for round bellies' & can be worn over bikinis or makes a chic evening outfit
SAINSBURY'S has sent fashionistas into a frenzy with their latest maxi dress that's ''perfect for round bellies''. With temperatures soaring again this week, and with the school holidays right around the corner, millions of Brits are likely making plans for beach days and holidays abroad. 3 And what better way to get yourself excited for enjoying some much-needed sunshine, than by treating yourself to a new outfit. Sainsbury's Tu is one of the best-loved brands on the high street right now, and the supermarket is constantly wowing fashionistas with its stylish but wallet-friendly clothing. Whether you're on the lookout for cute dresses or on-trend work attire, Sainsbury's fast-fashion range always hits the mark, and its latest summer collection is no exception. One frock that has caught the eye of fashion fans is the Neutral Leaf Printed Halter Neck Dress, which shoppers can now snap up for just £30. The maxi gown is a sophisticated staple for summer getaways and outings, and it's sure to make heads turn on a chic evening with your friends or family. The neutral dress, which is available in sizes UK 6 to UK 24, has been designed in a flowing shape - ideal for comfort if you want to stay cool or feel bloated. The show-stopper of a dress features a classy halter neck and cut-out detailing just above the chest. Finished with a leaf print at the hem, this stunning number is an elegant addition to your collection this summer. The styling options are also seemingly endless - dress it up with strappy heels and statement earrings for a classy dinner, or just throw it on with flip flops for an effortless look on the beach with a bikini underneath. You can find the frock in store and online, but you'll have to be quick to avoid missing out. I wasn't going to spend thousands on a wedding dress so got an Oh Polly one for £75 - no one would know it wasn't pricey Reviewing the five-star dress, one fashion fan said: ''Been looking for this shape and style of dress at a high street level for a while. ''Bought the 10 (am usually a 10-12, am 5ft 6 for reference) and this is a good fit and length for me. It's a bit roomy over the bust but I am on the smaller side on top. ''For a little more money I would have loved the inclusion of pockets (it has none). More colours please. How to dress in a heatwave SUMMER is finally here with temperatures soaring this weekend, but it has been so long since we dressed for the warmer weather - what should we wear?The Sun's fashion team is here to help with a cut-out-and-keep guide to heatwave attire. Clemmie Fieldsend and Abby McHale reveal the ultimate dos and don'ts so that you never suffer from unsightly tan lines, sweaty patches or wardrobe malfunctions again. Cover up While you might be tempted to put on your skimpiest outfit when the mercury rises above 25C, it has actually been proven that staying covered up can keep you cooler. We're not saying wear your winter coat and wrap up. You should wear a light breathable fabric such as cotton - look for flowy midi skirts, dresses or wide leg trousers which will billow and create a nice cool breeze for you as you walk. Prepare for extremes With our unpredictable weather, it's not uncommon to see either someone in hotpants with goose-pimpled legs after an unexpected downpour, or at the other end of the spectrum, someone still wearing their winter tights in 30C heat. When you're on the fence, opt for a loose co-ord that will keep you cool but not expose you to the elements if it rains. Wear shorts Yes, you can wear shorts - and at any age. The key is getting the length just right and longer shorts are all the rage this year. Short shorts are of course allowed but they won't make you any cooler. If anything, micro-shorts can make you feel hotter. Plus, they are wedgie inducing, often too tight and often show off rather too much bum cheek. Wear white White is not the easiest to keep clean but it is the best shade for a heatwave, and looks effortlessly chic. It doesn't absorb light like black but instead, reflects it. It's also a shade that never goes out of style. If you do get the odd suncream smear on your whites, quickly dab with hand soap and water, rub in with a brush and then wash as normal. Don't show bra straps Whilst everyone wants to wear strappy clothing in the summer, there really is nothing classy about your bra straps being on show - especially when they're the opposite colour to your top. Instead, if you are plumping for a strappy top, stick a strapless bra underneath. Don't attempt a boob tube The boob tube has got to be one of the most faffy and unflattering pieces of clothing you can own. Yes, you will avoid shoulder strap tan lines, but you will spend the whole day pulling your top up and trying to keep your boobs in place. Come evening, you will have grubby fingerprints all over and will have no doubt experienced the odd nip slip. Don't choose espadrilles Espadrille wedges were once Kate Middleton's go-to summer shoe but they have well and truly fallen off the fashion wagon. While noughties ballet flats are back, the espadrille is yet to have its revival. It's one of those fashion items that Gen Z won't be seen dead in, and have even dubbed 'the granny sandal'. For now, opt for a ballet flat or a sandal. Don't wear crochet The crochet trend is nice enough and while it looks great on the likes of Love Island presenter Maya Jama, it's simply not practical. If the sun is out, chances are, you'll end up with tragic tan lines like a mosaic. Plus, it's essentially knitwear - hot and itchy. For men, knitted polos have also crept into the fashion fold, masquerading as summer wear but they are made from synthetic materials and induce swear. Wear at your own risk. ''Light weight beige requires skin colour underwear - but as it is floaty you can't see everything underneath which is good.'' Another fan of the supermarket said: ''Perfect fit! As it was a flowy dress I sized down and I'm so glad I did- beautiful dress looks so chic and expensive I have worn my with a little waist belt and looks fab!'' Someone else was just as thrilled with their purchase and described the affordable dress as ''absolutely gorgeous''. ''I'm normally a 10-12, but bought a 10. Fits lovely and looks / feels more expensive than it is!''
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Travel + Leisure
09-07-2025
- Travel + Leisure
15 Wrinkle-free Travel Clothes That Never Need to Be Ironed—Up to 65% Off for Prime Day
Wrinkle-free clothing is the unsung hero of travel, and luckily, Amazon Prime Day is here with a selection of smooth, flattering styles that instantly look put-together—even straight from the suitcase. If you're hoping to leave the steamer at home this summer, this is your chance to stock up on everything from flowy maxi dresses to effortless matching sets that won't show a single crease or crinkle, now available at staggeringly low prices. No matter what articles of clothing are on your summer shopping list, we've scoured the depths of Amazon to uncover the 15 best wrinkle-free pieces you'll want to add to your travel wardrobe this season. The goal? A closet full of items that aren't just stylish—they're functional too. Each pick is loved by travelers (and marked down significantly for Prime Day), so don't wait too long to add these thoroughly vetted finds to your cart. These flowy and breathable palazzo pants are not only a versatile addition to your travel wardrobe—they're also a wrinkle-free option that looks pristine from the moment you remove them from your suitcase. The wide-leg design will provide ample room for air flow without stifling your legs with too-tight fabric, and the high-rise cut is both flattering and comfortable. Nearly 2,800 shoppers have awarded these pants with a five-star rating at Amazon, and one customer noted that they 'don't wrinkle' and are so comfy that they're 'basically classy pajama pants.' A basic button-down top is one of the most versatile shirts you could include on your packing list for any season, and this blouse is especially well-suited for travel since it's made with a wrinkle-resistant cotton and polyester blend. You can size up and wear it as a breezy beach cover up or opt for your regular size and tuck it into a pair of trousers for a day of sightseeing. No matter how you style it, this shirt will always look put-together and classy. It comes in 32 striped shades in sizes XS through 3XL, and one shopper confirmed that it 'doesn't wrinkle' and 'packs well for travel.' Midi skirts are some of the easiest pieces to dress up or down based solely on the accessories you pair them with, so you'll want to snag this wrinkle-free option from Amazon Essentials while it's on sale for $13 for Prime Day in select prints. The ultra-comfy skirt is made with an elastic waistband and crafted from stretchy, breathable fabric that makes the summer heat far more bearable, and it's made with dual slits that won't restrict your range of motion while facilitating air flow with every step. The convenient pull-on design is excellent for hurrying out to seize the day in style, and one shopper raved that it's a 'great casual skirt' for travel since it's 'super comfortable, packs easily, and doesn't wrinkle.' Skorts were all the rage last summer, and the trend is guaranteed to carry into this year, as well. If you're looking for a wrinkle-free option to rock from the airport to the city streets, this simple black mini will be right up your alley—and right now it's on sale for only $19 during Prime Day. The polyester and spandex blend is stretchy and breathable while maintaining a flattering fit, and it's even made with UV protection for your time in the sun. We love the basic black option, but it's also available in countless other colors and patterns if you're in the market for more of a statement piece. Plus, travelers can't get enough of it, as one shared that it's 'perfect for packing as the material does not wrinkle.' The Columbia Freezer III Dress is one of the best investments you could make for your summer travel wardrobe—after all, it's wrinkle-free, cooling, and endlessly stylish. Currently on sale for 46 percent off, this versatile dress is designed to easily wick away moisture to keep you temperate throughout the warmer months, and it's made with UPF 30 protection to guard your skin against harsh sun rays. The timeless silhouette can be dressed up or down in accordance with what's on your travel agenda, and it's so comfy you may even choose to wear it during upcoming travel days. One reviewer shared that this is their 'absolute favorite' sweat-wicking dress for the summer, since they love the way it 'feels, fits, and looks.' A pair of lightweight pants can still be a staple in your travel wardrobe even well into the summer months, and this breathable option is your best bet since these bottoms are loose-fitting and stretchy. An elastic waistband won't compress your stomach or cause discomfort even if you bloat while traveling, but perhaps most important at all is that they're wrinkle-resistant. One shopper explained that they're 'perfect for travel as they can be both dressy or casual,' adding that they 'wash and dry beautifully, keep their shape, and don't wrinkle.' You can never go wrong with adding a simple white T-shirt to your suitcase, but if you're looking for an option that won't require the steamer before throwing it on, this oversized tee is the way to go. Its loose, generous shape is incredibly comfortable for travel without restricting your movement, while a stretchy fabric blend won't stifle you in the heat, either. One customer divulged that it's 'low maintenance' and 'does not easily wrinkle,' even adding that you can 'dress it up or own' with ease. A wrinkle-resistant jumpsuit is an unstoppable piece to have at the ready while traveling, so you'll want to take advantage of Prime Day to snag this olive green beauty while it's on sale for just $26. The cinched waist is flattering without sacrificing comfort, and the jogger-style bottoms will make this outfit wearable from the airport to a nice dinner—all depending on your footwear and accessories. It's made from a stretchy, forgiving fabric in sizes S to 2XL with 11 colors and prints to choose from, and one traveler confirmed that the one-piece outfit is 'wrinkle-free' and 'perfect for hot weather.' This casual, feminine T-shirt dress is one of the easiest one-and-done outfits you could have on hand for summer, and now that it's on sale for 27 percent off is the best time to shop. On top of the fact that it has pockets (an immediate win!), it's also made with a cinched waist and folded sleeves that add visual interest to the relatively basic piece. It's earned more than 3,300 five-star ratings at Amazon for its versatile, wearable nature, and one shopper shared that it was 'ideal for summer travel' during a recent trip to Italy since it's 'lightweight, wrinkle-resistant, and easily packed.' Since they're made from a durable, water-resistant fabric that's designed for active wear, these top-rated Baleaf hiking pants are wrinkle-resistant, as well. Whether you're planning a strenuous hiking trip or are considering some leisurely trail activities, these pants are a great addition to your suitcase for anything on the docket, and they're made with UPF 50+ for essential sun protection (in combination with sunscreen, of course!). Out of the 3,000-plus five star ratings they've earned at Amazon, one shopper raved that they 'didn't wrinkle' and are especially 'great for traveling.' The ideal airport outfit is comfy, versatile, and wrinkle-free, and we've found all that and more in the Anrabess Women's 2-piece Matching Knit Set. It's nearly identical to another ultra-popular matching set that's a fan-favorite for travel, while both the top and bottoms are cute enough to be worn together or separately throughout your next trip. Now on sale for $35, you won't want to miss out on the matching set that shoppers have revealed shows 'no wrinkles' and earned them 'so many compliments.' Why relegate exercise dresses to just the tennis courts when you could leverage their wrinkle-free fabric to build the perfect sightseeing outfit? This feminine mini dress is made from a sweat-wicking, cooling fabric that you could wear on the hiking trails or the city streets, and it's even crafted with a built-in romper underneath for just the right amount of coverage (as well as a sneaky pocket for phone storage). One shopper shared that it 'doesn't wrinkle when [you're] sitting,' adding that the 'material is very soft.' These flattering and fitted mid-rise pants are currently on sale for 63 percent off during Prime Day—and they're just about the most versatile option you could add to your suitcase. They're made with an elastic waistband that's flexible and far more comfortable than other rigid trousers, plus the tailored silhouette can be dressed up or down with ease. One person said they 'traveled with them and they were wrinkle free,' even adding that the 'pants have held up well after being washed several times.' A comfy lounge set that you can style as an outfit during your travels will go a long way, and this two-piece pairing is an exceptionally great vacation pick with its stretchy, breathable, and wrinkle-free design. Since it comes in solid colors, both the top and bottom can be styled countless different ways with other items in your suitcase, and the pants are made with an adjustable waistband to ensure your long-lasting comfort. It's perfect for summer, as one shopper noted that it's 'very flattering, comfortable, [and] lightweight.' No summer packing list is complete without a high-quality pair of shorts, so you won't want to leave this simple khaki option unclaimed while it's on sale for under $20. The mid-rise shorts are cut with a five-inch inseam that shouldn't ride up or cause chafing, and they're also available in straight and curvy sizes to find your ideal fit. The cotton-blend shorts will be ready to wear straight from your luggage, as one customer confirmed that not only did they 'not wrinkle while wearing,' plus the lighter colors are also 'not see-through.' Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week.
Times
06-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Times
How to do night-time glamour now
A fter years of boho-inspired crochet hats and oversized vests, our holiday wardrobes are in need of a glamourous overhaul. While that beachy full-moon party look was nice for a moment, it's high time we stepped things up a gear. We are talking summer holidays after all, and if you can't pull on a gold swimsuit with a pair of 3in heels during your two-week escape from the real world, frankly when can you? High-octane glamour — think black costumes, a hint of leopard and a metallic sheen — is your baseline this summer for day and night, so sidestep the sundresses and go straight for the plunging gown. Slinging said gown over your favourite bikini is not only acceptable, it's expected. See also, wearing your favourite party shoes to the pool.
