Whether you're drawn to maxi, midi or mini, this is a wardrobe staple you really can't be without.
There are few occasions a reliable summer dress won’t see you through- drinks, city breaks, dog walks and 239431 beer garden trips, a versatile summer dress that can be styled up or dressed down can be a saviour in ‘I have NOTHING to wear’ moments aplenty. Whether you’re drawn to maxi, midi or mini, this is a wardrobe staple you really can’t be without. Add a denim jacket, basket bag and chunky sandals and voila, you’re ready to head out the door quicker than we can say “Let’s get a jug of Pimms”.
Gingham, polka dot and florals are the pinnacle of reliable prints and you won’t stray far wrong with these go-to’s in your repertoire. Notable high street destinations for summer dresses we predict you’ll be living in this year include Collusion on ASOS, Sezane, & Other Stories, Weekday and Never Fully Dressed- bookmark these babies, scroll ‘new in’ and you’re guaranteed a winner.
Holly
I exclusively wear dresses in summer so I already have my eye on loads. As ever, I’m loving the longer dresses to be worn everywhere, work, the pub, a nice sunset walk. They also keep me warmer when I’m in the pub gardens until the early hours of the morning. But I am partial to a mini dress for a night out. Catch me in all the dresses!
I live in dresses all Summer long – they just make for easy-going outfits you can throw on but still look like you’ve made an effort. I particularly love smocked prairie dresses or milkmaid style necklines and puff sleeves. Everything just gets a little bit more romantic in the summer and I always love wearing shapes that play up to that!
UGHHH I feel like I am in my prime with this trend in all honesty- a summer dress is truly my favourite kind of outfit and approaching the warmer weather is making me v v happy. I live for an oversized, smock or tiered dress and it seems like I’ve accidentally nailed a green/lime colour palette here- maybe it’s my colour for S/S21 and I didn’t even know it?! I especially love the Collusion number with the matching bandana for effortless, comfy yet very cool vibez.
My uniform come summer is pretty much a throw on dress, sandals and light jacket, it’s truly the easiest time of the year to get dressed! I usually end up going for light coloured (best for heat) minimal chic dresses that I can wear to the beach, to work, and to the pub. I also love this white wrap number with fun polka dots from the Never Fully Dressed curvy range, great for events although possibly not a wedding! And I recently discovered Violeta by Mango which is their plus-size range, most of the choices are quite plain but I think this blue ditsy print is so pretty and feminine.
Dresses are always the best in Summer, so easy to just throw on and head out the house. Paired with some sandals/trainers and a cute bag, you are good to go! I love a floral dress (shocking for Summer) with a bit of ruffle action going on. Very much a fan of tennis style outfits at the moment too, like white skorts, but also a big fan of tennis style dresses. Cami dresses are also very fun and go with almost anything, I really like this check print one from Motel!
Sandy beaches, authentic coastal charm, sleepy villages and, of course, the beautiful Broads, the county of Norfolk has it all.
Sandy beaches, authentic coastal charm, sleepy villages and, of course, the beautiful Broads, the county of Norfolk has it all.
From seaside themed afternoon tea in the county’s capital, Norwich (food is our compass) to getting the best night’s kip of your life in a cosy train carriage in Shropham, we’ve covered a lot of ground in this round up of best places to eat, drink, sleep, repeat in Norfolk, so hopefully you’ll be able to find some 10/10 recommendations to add to your summer 2021 wander-list.
Inhale a seaside themed afternoon tea at The Assembly House
No one does bougie afternoon tea quite like these guys. Think delicate finger sarnies, scones, sea salt caramel shells in edible sand and candyfloss macarons complete with an edible pearl. Now, that’s the kind of tier system we’re talking about.
We can’t explain why Wells dropped the ‘to’ but we move. With its pine forest, sprawling sandy bay and pastel-coloured beach huts, Wells-next-the-Sea is the perfect place to kick back with a picnic or dangle your feet over the quay, complete with obligatory fish and chips from French’s – the best fish and chips on the coast.
📍The Quay, Wells-next-the-Sea, NR23 1AH
Be at one with the seals at Blakeney Point
Because hanging out with seal pals is everyone’s idea of a dream day out, right? Take a ferry from Morston Quay with Beans Boat Trips to enjoy a close-up view of the colony of common and grey seals. Life made.
Forget Provence, if you’re in the west coast of Norfolk during the summer months, Norfolk Lavenderis a must-see (and smell). Founded in 1932, the perfumed patch is renowned worldwide for its oil distillery and perfume and toiletries range. They’re open all year round but June to August is when it really comes into its own when the lavender blooms into flower and the air is full of the calming scent.
With 189 stalls, Norwich Market is one of the largest and oldest open-air markets in the UK. Find everything from fresh flowers to independent beers and soft serve ice cream and definitely don’t miss the pastries from Bread Source!
Located on the University of East Anglia (UEA) campus, you might recognise the Sainsbury Centre as the Avengers Headquarters. Here you can discover the Robert and Lisa Sainsbury collection along with the works from famous artists including Pablo Picasso, Francis Bacon and Henry Moore. And, it’s free! Happy days.
Live your best cottagecore life in the Norwich Cathedral Quarter
With its postcard-pretty buildings and fairy-tale cobbled streets, the Norwich Cathedral Quarter will charm your ditsy floral socks off. Visit the Norwich Cathedral for a one-of-a-kind peek into medieval Britain and don’t miss the sweeping vaulted Cloisters (the biggest of their kind in the country).
Located in Elm Hill, one of the prettiest cobbled streets in Britain (it features in Stardust and Jingle Jangle fyi), The Dormouse Bookshop is well worth a visit for any bookworms.
A cabin in the woods doesn’t get better than this. Set in a peaceful ancient woodland surrounded by ponds that basically qualify as lakes and plenty of feathered friends and deer, the tranquillity of Settle Norfolk is a world away from the hustle and bustle of urban life. Set up camp in one of their lovingly restored train carriages, huddle round the log burner with a cup of something soothing and snuggle up in the Piglet in Bed linen.
Don’t leave without visiting the Settle honesty shop, full of swoon-worthy handmade ceramics, organic bath salts, greeting cards and tableware.
For post-walk feasting, look no further than Shambles Café Bar Bistro. Serving tender Norfolk sirloin, guinea fowl, nut roast and local fish of the day, your tummy growls are bound to fall silent here. There should be a name for that feeling of waiting for a roast dinner after a long beach walk, when you can smell the potatoes roasting and you’re wondering whether it would be frowned upon to start dipping your finger into the horseradish whilst you wait for the main event. PS save room for the homemade treacle tart and clotted cream or live the rest of your life with regret.
If curated cocktails and top-drawer meat-free, dairy-free small plates have your full attention, Tipsy Vegan is the good place. Featuring spiced peanut kebobs, Korean marinated tofu bao bun, chorizo croquettas and carrot lox and lemon butter ravioli, it’s basically the food equivalent of hot girl summer and we’re here for it.
Hire a day cruiser to explore the beauty of the Broads
No trip to Norfolk is complete without experiencing the famous Broads, preferably by boat. With 125 miles of stunning man-made waterways, there are plenty of places to moor up and explore the landmarks and attractions that have come to define the beautiful wetland landscape, cosy riverside pubs included because there’s always time for that. Venice, who?
📍Various slipways but Wroxham seems to be a popular starting point
Thoughts & Feelings We Had Whilst Watching The Bold Type Seasons 1 to 4
The Bold Type’s strength lies in its ability to walk the tightrope of heavy but essential conversations and feel-good soapy silliness. Here’s to one last toast in the fashion closet and unleashing holy hell!
[contains all the spoilers]
If you didn’t binge watch all four seasons of The Bold Type in lockdown after it landed on Netflix, allow us to bring you up to speed on the best thing that’s happened to us since The Devil Wears Prada and Sex and the City. We said what we said.
Originally released in 2017, The Bold Type is a tv series loosely based on the life of former Cosmo Editor-in-Chief Joanna Coles, who also happens to be the Executive Producer on the show.
It follows a trio of twenty-something best friends and co-workers Kat (Aisha Dee), Jane (Katie Stevens) and Sutton (Meghann Fahy), as they navigate relationships and climb the career ladder at the fictional women’s lifestyle magazine, Scarlet.
Whilst trying to excel in their careers and figure out who they are in their personal lives, their unwavering friendship is their one constant. Through breast cancer scares, estranged mothers, egg freezing, sexual awakenings, miscarriages and break ups, the crazy chemistry between Kat, Jane and Sutton does everything to dismantle the three’s a crowd adage so often used to divide women. Here it brings them together to form three parts of an unshakeable whole.
The Bold Type’s strength lies in its ability to walk the tightrope of heavy but essential conversations and feel-good soapy silliness. It’s far-fetched, wildly unrealistic and hilarious but it’s also comforting and empowering, and that’s all part of its humble, multi-hyphenate appeal.
Sisterhood is the show’s bread and butter, and despite the signature hokey rom-com tropes, love triangles and elevator meet-cutes, the real romance is between the Bold babes and their messy, unconditional bond.
With the fifth and final season about to drop (send help), we’re collecting some thoughts and feelings we had whilst watching the lives of the Scarlet women unfold.
Here’s to one last toast in the fashion closet and unleashing holy hell!
In episode one when Kat yells, “Excuse me my friend is having a moment” at the disgruntled guy behind her as Jane takes a group selfie is the moment we fell in love with her. A whole 154 seconds into the show.
Mentally, I work under Richard. Like, he’s heartbeat in your clitoris kinda territory.
Time to pitch vibrators and female pleasure in a boardroom full of white men. We’ve got a lot of time for Jacqueline, expertly played by Melora Hardin. Yee-haw.
“People tend to get uncomfortable when they cannot put you in a box”. I ship Kat & Adena.
Jacqueline turning down a phone call from Beyonce to comfort Jane. Is she the best boss or is she the best boss?
That yellow Scarlet Gala prosecco looks like it would put me in a grave.
Next time someone pisses me off, I’m getting the girls together in our evening gowns and screaming into the humid abyss of the central line.
Stating the obvious but the female friendships are chef’s kiss
“I deserve to be the girl you can’t stop thinking about”. Sutton is everything.
Want to start referring to every website as The Dot Com but also would quite like to keep some friends.
Name an underrated character: Andrew / Jacqueline Carmichael.
The soundtrack is SO good.
Carrie & Big have got nothing on Sutton and Richard. Don’t @ me.
Brb, off to find my erotic creature.
Found it and miraculously named it Pinstripe.
Why did I want to clap when Jane adds her byline to the orgasm article?
The worst Easter egg hunt scene will forever have my heart.
Shower thoughts include wondering who out of my friends would be committed to removing a Yoni egg from my vagina…
Do you know what’s bold? The fact that Kat went in glove-less. Not all BFFs are created equal.
The music montages get me every time. Genius.
Going to need Jane to write about all the times Pinstripe made me want elevator sex. It’s the leather jacket for me. Hello? The man breaks lamps!
The violin scene with Kadena lives in my head rent free.
Every social media manager had a physical reaction to Kat sending that tweet from the Scarlet account.
Sutton landed a job in fashion and suddenly, I’m arranging drinks for her to celebrate.
“I’m Nora Ephron, bitch” Marry me, Sutton Brady.
Must Adena be so flighty?!
“No more nipple postings” sounds like something I need to hear when I’m drunk and intent on being shrill and semi-naked.
Did Brendon the intern just get his nipple out in the middle of the office for a photo op and not even question it?
He’s right though. It HAS been a long summer.
Jane getting tested for the BRACA gene mutation, with her second and third by her side. My heart exploded a tiny bit.
Kind of want to organise a free the nipple day in a local park in a major way.
Let’s just agree, there is no good angle for shower sex.
Low key adore high tea Sutton.
Climbing into a bathtub with my chaotic friends and wine is literally all I want to do rn.
Not getting good vibes from Incite. Stay well away tiny Jane.
Why does Trump always find us? It’s all too real, we ordered escapism.
Jacqueline taking those weights was one of the most underrated moments of tv.
“It’s sexual harassment time…. The seminar” gotta love Oliver.
Mitzi is not a woman of Scarlet. She is serving big Regina George energy.
These three really drink wine every night and we stan.
Kat: “I’ve gotta go find Adena” Sutton: “Or at least her vagina” Reason 1873817819 Sutton is our spirit animal.
Just want to drink scotch with Jacqueline.
Cunnilingus getting the airtime it deserves. We love to see it.
Guess what, we miss Richard sex too, Sutton.
Season 2… not coping with tiny Jane’s empty desk.
Fill in the blank, Cleo Williams is a__
Mama Jackie loves a chunky bangle. Noted.
Since when was Ben the hot Dr Australian?
If a Dr ever asks me to dance when I’m about to give birth, they will feel the full wrath of my grapevine, let’s just say that.
“You need to live in this failure” tough love from Jacqueline hits different.
One cannot be platonic with Pinstripe the novelist. Nope.
When tiny Jane cries, we all cry. We just don’t look as pretty as her.
Speaking of Jane, the girl just LOVES a hard copy.
Don’t like the way this Brooke influencer is taking our Sutton for a ride. Don’t like it at all.
Pretty sure you can’t expense narcotics but whatever.
Karaoke ABBA is not meant to sound this good.
Oof seeing Richard get in that taxi with another woman, a woman Sutton has to style? Gonna throw up.
Sutton in Paris over Emily in Paris. Always and forever.
The Dua Lipa road trip scene is all of us.
Nobody sings Torn like drunk tiny Jane. Nobody.
Need Jane to pitch that Dr Pinstripe throuple tbh.
‘No white after Labour Day and never walk away from love”. Oh, Paris Oliver is too much.
Season 3 is off to a strong start with Pinstripe’s peen-stripe.
I only tolerate Patrick because we know he exposed himself to achieve gender equality.
If Sasha Velour can’t save a lesbian bar, there’s really no hope.
Hell yes to Sutton masturbating when she can’t jump Richard’s bones. Self-pleasure waits for no one.
“It’s not about the pond it’s about what the duck pond represents”…
And what it represents is our thirst for Richard. The end.
You’ve been gone 5 minutes Ryan. How will Jinstripe bounce back from this? It was a book tour, not lads on tour for crying out loud RYAN. Jane did a terrible webcam dance for you and everything.
Kat was robbed in that election. We demand a recount in the least Trumpish way possible.
Oh, Pinstripe that speech. Even the leather jacket can’t save you now.
No, no, no, where is Mama Jackie?
Frat boy frittata, Pinestripe? More like fuck boy frittata.
Just how many parties can one magazine have?
Richard’s proposal to the tune of Taylor Swift Lover. Sutton in that satin dress. He asked for Kat and Jane’s blessing. What a guy. What a beautiful day.
“You can be alone and sexually satisfied” you tell ‘em Kat.
Jacqueline has more composure in her eyebrow than I have in my entire body.
Today on Zoella (aka The dot co dot UK), let’s talk pegging.
Yes, tiny Jane. Let’s normalise vaginas smelling like vaginas over baked cookies.
Pinstripe judging Evan for cheating, well that’s rich.
Really want Jacqueline to have the season 4 hot girl summer she deserves, alas Ian is back.
He SLEPT with book tour girl?! There’s no fixing this. A pinstripe never changes his pinstripes.
Ok Babs Brady is going to have to stop with this wedding day limo speech because eyes on fire here.
Can’t believe Richard’s stubble is this on point.
I can feel the feminism leaving my body. Stuff the stylist job, look at that distinguished gentleman and his perfectly styled face
They did it! The Brady-Hunters did IT.
“Nothing is bigger than us” omg these beautiful fucking WOMEN
Putting your boyfriend down for a nap. Can relate.
This miscarriage story is powerful.
Praying Andrew’s confidence finds me someday.
Jane’s dad driving miles to deliver a hug, a DVF wrap dress and take her stationery shopping. What a guy.
Big fat yes to the child free by choice conversation.
Freeform really want to ruin the one stable couple we had going for us, huh?
Well, this Keva romance is wild and unexpected on every level.
I don’t feel like dancing right now girls because I’m never going to be prepared for the lights in that emotionally-charged fashion cupboard to go out for the very last time. Hold. Me.
Ugly but Stylish Dad Sandals We’ll Be Wearing In Summer ’21
In true Dad style, the chunky, often thick strapped shoe is comfortable, practical and everything you need for day trips, staycations and simply carrying your Asda shop up the hill on the way home- we stan the versatility!
Did someone say Marmite fashion coming through? Ohh yes they did! You either love it or you hate it when it comes to some fashion trends (cycling shorts and low rise jeans we’re looking at you) but Dad sandals ain’t budging for the summer season ahead and this week’s edit has the best of the bunch …
It’s Louis Theroux made cool, it’s everything in the world that really shouldn’t be stylish but just is.
Think Dad at the BBQ taking pride of place flipping burgers, Dad on a camping trip carefully assembling the tent poles in order, or Dad on a day trip with the AA road map in hand and sandwiches expertly refrigerated in the cool box. It’s Louis Theroux made cool, it’s everything in the world that really shouldn’t be stylish but just is. And in true Dad style, the chunky, often thick strapped shoe is comfortable, practical and everything you need for day trips, staycations and simply carrying your Asda shop up the hill on the way home- we stan the versatility!
Chanel offers the creme de la creme of chunky sandals, but if you don’t want to be stuck eating beans on toast for the rest of eternity then keep scrolling for the best high street dupes …
Touching on race relations, family ties, motherhood, class and what it means to be black in America, Johnson’s timely debut novel is a heartfelt portrayal and a deeply necessary book for all readers.
Nancy Johnson’s, The Kindest Lie, tells the story of Ruth Tuttle, a young black Yale-educated chemical engineer tethered to her past by a burning family secret not even her husband knows.
Touching on race relations, family ties, motherhood, class and what it means to be black in America, Johnson’s timely debut novel is a heartfelt portrayal and a deeply necessary book for all readers.
If you’re looking to diversify your reading list by exploring new voices and learning about perspectives and cultures that differ from your own, The Kindest Lie is a great book to pick up.
Here’s a reminder of the blurb and a look at the team’s reviews for this dazzling debut.
A promise could betray you.
It’s 2008, and the inauguration of President Barack Obama ushers in a new kind of hope. In Chicago, Ruth Tuttle, an Ivy-League educated Black engineer, is married to a kind and successful man. He’s eager to start a family, but Ruth is uncertain. She has never gotten over the baby she gave birth to and was forced to leave behind when she was a teenager. She had promised her family she’d never look back, but Ruth knows that to move forward, she must make peace with the past.
Returning home, Ruth discovers the Indiana factory town of her youth is plagued by unemployment, racism, and despair. As she begins digging into the past, she unexpectedly befriends Midnight, a young white boy who is also adrift and looking for connection. Just as Ruth is about to uncover a burning secret her family desperately wants to keep hidden, a traumatic incident strains the town’s already searing racial tensions, sending Ruth and Midnight on a collision course that could upend both their lives.
Powerful and revealing, The Kindest Lie captures the heartbreaking divide between Black and white communities and offers both an unflinching view of motherhood in contemporary America and the never-ending quest to achieve the American Dream.
Lareese
All the praise for Nancy Johnson’s debut novel. I love a complex and messy familial story and this one is raw, timely and nuanced. The Kindest Lie is set in a factory town in Indiana, 2008 when Obama has just been elected president and America is on the precipice of great change, which provides an interesting and poignant backdrop for the themes in this novel to play out. The author deftly examines issues of racism, class and identity in contemporary America – it’s the kind of story every white person should read at least once. Nancy Johnson has a gift for dialogue and has created a story with vibrant, beautifully flawed characters that will stay with you long after you’ve closed the book. She is a voice to be celebrated and I can’t wait to read more of her stories in the future.
Rating: 4.5/5
Would you recommend it? – Yes, I want to re-read it already!
Danielle
The Kindest Lie is absolutely one of those books that leaves you thinking, it has made an impression on me and I don’t think I’ll be forgetting it in a hurry. The book is set in the time that Obama has been elected as president and I actually find a lot of comfort in the mid-late 00’s era I suppose because it wasn’t too long ago but also feels like a different time. The book also spends time in the midwest which is a part of America I’ve never visited (usually on the east or west coast, the tourist spots) It was so interesting to picture life in Indiana which often isn’t depicted in Hollywood movies or Netflix shows. The book addresses topics such as race, class, family dynamics and poverty in such an intelligent way, with characters who have faults but are still completely likeable. The Kindest Lie is what I would call a ‘builder’ where you’re kind of waiting to get to the end to have the story cleared up but let me tell you it does not disappoint and I found the read as a whole very satisfying. I’ve always found the great recession interesting so I was really intrigued by the aftermath and how anger and unemployment swells and intertwines with American politics.
Rating: 5/5
Would you recommend it? – 100% I can’t wait to see what Nancy writes next
Darcey
Wow what a debut novel from Nancy Johnson! Set in 2008 when Obama had just been elected as President, the book centres around the hope this brings for a new America. Ruth, the protagonist, returns back to her hometown Indiana after keeping a huge secret from her husband Xavier for years. I loved how this book explored so many difficult relationships; Ruth is a friend, mother, sister, wife, she is so many things and I really enjoyed how these are all touched upon throughout this novel. This book tackles topics such a race and class so carefully, but so effectively. Truly brilliant read, by the end I was crying and realised how invested I had become! Would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a new book to get lost in.
Rating: 4/5
Would you recommend it? – Yes!
Charlotte
I loved Nancy’s Johnson’s writing style and the ease with which she is able to set the scene and make the reader feel like they have been picked up and dropped into the storyline itself- it feels even more impressive knowing The Kindest Lie is her debut novel! Despite that, I have to say I wasn’t gripped by this book and didn’t feel myself drawn to picking it up in the same way that I have with other books I’ve read this year. I’ve come to the conclusion that I look for true escapism in a book and perhaps because I’ve had a lot going on this month I didn’t find that in The Kindest Lie because of its somewhat heavier subject, but that doesn’t make the themes and issues raised any less important or interesting to read about.
One thing I did love about this book was the setting! For some reason, I don’t read a lot of books set in America and the time period of the 2008 American election was a really interesting one. Nancy really captured the emotion and magnitude of this event amazingly and I found that to be a great backdrop to the general storyline. I didn’t feel an intense draw to many of the characters but I did love hearing the dual perspective of both Midnight and Ruth, particularly because of their differing experiences and ages. It’s definitely one to read if you’re interested in American history as it gives a great feel for the US, but personally, it didn’t always hit the spot for me.
Rating: 3/5
Would you recommend it? To the right person, yes!
One of our favourite authors and creator of this months Zoella Book Club pick Beth O'Leary caught up with us about writing her latest novel and how it was inspired, her favourite characters and what you can expect when picking up one of her books.
First off, how are you and how is your 2021 going?
Well, hi! I’m good, thanks – I’m seven months pregnant, which has made 2021 a pretty exciting year for me and my husband! And I’ve been beavering away at my writing desk, juggling promotion for my new novel The Road Trip with edits on my next book (title soon to be announced). So I’ve definitely been keeping busy…
We’re so excited to be reading The Road Trip for our May Book Club, can you tell us about the process for writing it?
I am so honoured that you’ve chosen The Road Trip for your May Book Club! I actually wrote this novel in a kind of flurry of creativity – I finished The Switch, my second book, and it felt as though all the pressure of the ‘tricky second album’ lifted, and with The Road TripI could just let the words fly. The first draft was done within a few months, though of course there were many months of editing afterwards. But it really was a joyful book to write.
Where did you first get the idea to write The Road Trip?
I had the initial idea – two exes crashing cars and then having to share a vehicle – way back when The Flatshare didn’t even have a publisher yet. But it never quite felt like a whole story. It’s hard to explain that feeling, but I have lots of ideas like this which sit at the back of my mind, waiting for their missing ingredient. I don’t know what they’re missing, I just know it’s something.
With The Road Trip, that ingredient came when I was on holiday in beautiful Provence, France. (Don’t ideas so often come when we take a break?!) I fell in love with the landscape, the vineyards, the dusty fierce sunshine. I wanted to write a love story set there! And it suddenly struck me that if my road trip idea was about exes… then it was about people who had already had a love story. Perhaps that romance could have happened in Provence, and could be woven through the story of their awkward road trip across the UK.
Once I had this missing ingredient, I was away. I started writing and just didn’t stop.
How has your process for writing changed during the pandemic?
My process hasn’t really changed: I still write 2000 words per day when I’m writing a first draft; I still try to be at my desk as early as I can when I’m editing; I stick to my routine. But it’s definitely got harder, and I’ve found this last year a struggle at times, as everyone has. I’ve been extremely grateful for my dog, Molly, who gets me out for a walk every day, which always does me so much good!
If the person reading this had never picked up a Beth O’Leary novel what would you tell them to expect?
Oh, I love this question. I’d say… expect an uplifting, romantic read that’s grounded in real life. I hope my books will engross you, make you laugh, and leave you smiling when you reach that final page.
We loved reading The Switch last year and absolutely adored the characters, who is your most beloved character you’ve written?
I am so glad you enjoyed The Switch! It’s so hard to choose a favourite character, but I do think Arnold in The Switch will always have a very special place in my heart. He just turned up on the page fully formed, really. I loved playing with the trope of the gruff romantic hero who can’t express his feelings well… and making that hero a man in his seventies!
Do you read novels in the same genre you write, or do you go for something else?
I read a lot of romance, romantic comedies and contemporary fiction – it’s what I love, which is why it’s what I write! I do pick up the occasional thriller, but I’m very picky about those, and if they’re too tense I get a little stressed out. And every so often I dip back into a classic when I’m in the mood for it.
What are some of your favourite books from the last year?
I loved Dial A for Aunties by Jesse Q. Sutanto, which begins with the main character accidentally killing her blind date and then ringing her aunties to help her with the aftermath! It is brilliantly dark and so funny, and has a lovely romance woven through it too. I also loved Marian Keyes’ latest, Grown-Ups, which I think is her best novel yet (and I’m a huge fan of hers, so that is a high bar). And I recently read The Private Joys of Nnenna Maloney, by Okechukwu Nzelu, and adored it – his writing reminded me a little of Jane Austen, with that wonderful combination of wry humour and perceptiveness.
What are you currently working on?
I’m editing my fourth novel, which is due to publish next spring. I’m so excited about this book. It’s definitely my most ambitious yet, and the characters are so real to me now, I love them all to bits. I can’t wait to share more about it soon!
What does your perfect weekend look like?
A long dog walk with my husband, a hot cup of tea with a really great book, and then making dinner for a cosy evening with friends. I love cooking and baking, and over lockdowns I have really missed catering for loved ones when they come to visit!
What do you always carry with you?
Dog treats, lip balm, a snack (I am very grumpy when I’m hungry…)
What would your last ever meal be?
My husband’s vegetarian lasagne and then my mum’s rhubarb crumble with custard for pudding. They are both delicious dishes, but they’re also special to me because they remind me of two of my favourite people.
What is one positive piece of advice you could give to our audience?
Be gentle with yourself – you deserve kindness. In fact, right now, while you’re reading this, think of something you’re going to do to treat yourself today, and commit to doing it. Go on. It can be something tiny, but it’s got to be something 🙂
Everything You Need to Know About The Local Elections on Thursday
It’s important to get clued up on the who, what, where and when, and prepare to vote in the interests of what matters to you.
The political world has felt like somewhat of a ~wild ride~ over the past 12 months (to say the least), and sometimes the overwhelming amount of Instagram infographics, 5pm press conferences and Twitter threads can make it difficult to get down to the facts. But as the local elections in England approach, it’s important to get clued up on the who, what, where and when, and prepare to vote in the interests of what matters to you. Keep reading for the details and let’s get ready for dogs at polling stations!
What are the local elections?
Local elections decide who is in charge of local public services and how these are run, and usually involve voting for between one to three councillors to represent your area in local council. There are 388 local councils in England and about 20,000 councillors in total. This year’s elections will see a record number of by-elections for a single day, as 2020’s voting was postponed last year due to the Coronavirus pandemic.
Local councils are responsible for public services and issues such as recycling, council housing, transport, education, planning, parks, roads and social care and impact those from every walk of life and circumstance in your local area.
When and where?
Local elections will be taking place on the 6th May between 07:00 to 22:00 across England, however not in all parts. If you are registered to vote you should have received a polling card in the post detailing your nearest polling station (these are normally schools or community centres) however don’t panic if not as you can find your polling station details via The Electoral Commission website.
If you have not signed up for a postal vote and intend to cast your vote in person but develop Covid-19 symptoms in the lead up to the elections, you are able to sign up for an emergency proxy vote until 17:00 on polling day.
The above information applies to English local councils, however there are various different types of local election taking place on May 6. Depending on where you live, you may be asked to vote for:
English local councils
Police and Crime Commissioners
London Assembly
Scottish Parliament
Welsh Senedd
Directly-elected mayors
Why vote?
You may be feeling slightly disillusioned by politics and the rollercoaster ride (hi Ronan Keating) that this world has felt like in recent years, but don’t lose faith in the power of your vote and the impact this can have. Councillors represent a much smaller group of people than MPs do, meaning your single vote is more likely to make an impact on the result- we love to see it!
Even though you may not know or regularly see the inner workings and impact of your local council, their decisions likely affect more of your day to day life than you realise. Councils spend a lot of our money- about 25% of all public spending to be exact and how this money is used and which services you value most all come into your decision on who to vote for. The future of your local area is in your hands (no pressure), and envisioning how you hope your town or city will look in the next 1, 5 or 10 years time is part of the process of getting involved in voting this May.
Deciding who to vote for…
So you’re registered to vote, now it’s time to decide who for. This decision is a really personal one and completely rides on your priorities, values and vision for how you think your local area should be run, but it’s important to remember to prioritise policies over party names or existing prejudices.
To find out who is standing for vote in your local area, head to Who Can I Vote For and enter your postcode for a breakdown of the candidates in your ward.
How to support minority groups
Deciding who to vote for in the local elections is a personal choice only you can make, but when thinking about the greater good of your community and neighbours, it’s always important to consider those who will benefit from potential change most. Many members of local council have public social media profiles, and it may be worth checking out their pages, the issues they are vocal about and if they publicly take a stand on subjects and issues you value, such as Black Lives Matter, women’s rights and tackling inequality in our society.
A 2018 report showed that only 3.7% of senior positions in councils were filled by black, Asian and minority ethnic individuals (BAME) meaning we still have a long way to go in even representing members of our community in positions of power, but change occurs in voting, and this opportunity is not one to be passed up on.
Politics really can be a confusing one, but whether this is your first or tenth time voting, the opportunity to have your say never gets old.
From H&M, Monki, New Look to Urban Outfitters, this week's team picks are in full celebration of the wonders of the British high street!
Nothing gets the pulse racing quite like a good old fashion bargain (okay maybe Bridgerton is up there too) and securing a 10/10 outfit for a price that won’t break the bank is always something worth celebrating. It’s clear by now that the gems of the high street including the likes of Mango, Zara and H&M mean a bigger price tag doesn’t equal a more stylish ‘fit, making a £100 outfit challenge a piece of cake for those dedicated to a scroll through ‘new in’ on the regular.
Knowing where to invest and scrimp is key, with items like denim, footwear and jackets often benefiting from a little extra £££ if you can help it. Jewellery, bags and basic tees or layering pieces can often be found at a lower price, forming the foundation of your look and allowing your statement pieces to do the talking.
From H&M, Monki, New Look to Urban Outfitters, this week’s team picks are in full celebration of the wonders of the British high street!
Darcey
I’m honestly dreaming about sunny weather and being able to wear cute Summer outfits. I feel like ASOS is my go-to for affordable but good quality clothes. I loooooove this khaki wrap skirt from there I think it looks so stylish and it’s so wearable. Paired with a white racer vest, some chunky black flip flops, gold hoops and a shoulder bag, you’ve got yourself a 90s inspired Summer outfit with very easily interchangeable items.
I knew I had to start my outfit with this H&M dress, it’s such a steal and would be great for so many things; work outfit, beach day, out for dinner, general summer events! Paired it with some lovely sandals, and a fun bag from Zara with some gold earrings, I feel like I’m not dressed without a pair of gold earrings!
I’m ready to do the full wardrobe switcheroo and banish all my winter outfits to the loft so I’m manifesting a long stretch of sandal weather, strappy dresses and hats. As soon as it’s sunny, I’m all about ease and this crepe dress from H&M caught my eye for balmy bbq evenings, paired with chunky boy sandals and a ridiculously charming sun hat.
Shopping on a budget is what I’m all about! I’m not one to splurge so have some experience in shopping for a whole outfit for under £100, so here we go. Spring/Summer means I wear dresses all day every day so that’s an obvious addition. I’ll then just chuck on some accessories and head to the beer garden. Sorted.
ASOS is probably my most visited site along with Instagram and the weather app so I like to think I’m a dab hand at finding myself a bargain. Most of the time I still feel like a student when it comes to spending too and live for a good sale find so this challenge is right up my street. If we’re going affordable then Urban Outfitters isn’t usually my store of choice however this cute cami is so perfect for a simple, 90s look and I know I’d get so much wear out of it. I have to say the shoe choice is a little bold for me as I’m pretty safe in that department normally (the life of someone who is constantly battling blisters from anything other than well-worn ankle boots) but I reallyyyy love these chunky sandals and think they’d be perfect for summer. The jeans also bump the price up a lot here but it’s the sort of item you never regret spending on if you find the right pair!
Another month, another game of roadmap out of lockdown bingo, the bank holiday edition.
It’s crazy to think a year ago, we were probably knee-deep in old bananas, counting slipping into an oven mitt as an outfit change and going ham on Zoom quizzes to pass the time, now we’re on the home stretch and 100% ready to break up with tiers and at-home workouts for good. Roll on May!
1. Rush to book a staycation…
2. Only to realise there’s no availability until 2050. Might just lay a towel down to reserve my own bed at 7am just to feel something.
3. Continue to lie to yourself about how organised you’ll be with your tax return this year. The pub has all our receipts, therefore, he is the accountant.
4. Go through the annual should I chop my hair off or keep it long debate before leaving it up to an Instagram poll to confirm the restyle you’ve already booked.
5. Sit inside a pub without a curfew, a substantial meal or a hot water bottle.
6. Work from an actual office. It’s a big day for your back.
7. Secure a booking for a rooftop bar by some kind of miracle. It’s by the loo but what’s a bit of WC whiff on a southerly breeze when you’re soaking up the sunset with a g&t in hand?
8. Vow to have a sensible bank holiday…
9. Knowing full well it’ll all end with you cry-singing Robbie Williams Angels and feeling things because of the music and the people and the music and the people.
10. Take a walk because you want to and not because it’s the only form of movement that’s legal anymore.
11. Spend your money on your hair, nails, filler but a new laptop charger you actually need? Nope. It’ll have to wait.
12. Agree to attend daytime functions only. If it requires shoes or a bra after 8pm you can appeal the decision on the grounds of Line of Duty.
13. Wonder how you ever used to afford a luxury life of eating and drinking out like this.
14. Feel shocked and saddened that you don’t have anything to wear. Clothes yes, outfits no.
15. Spend 3-4 days thinking about all the sh*t you were chatting after one night out. Your alcohol tolerance is done.
16. Drink water. Plan nothing. Leave your hair. There is no right or wrong way to thrive in May.
17. Vote in your local election! Colin or Cuthbert, pick a side.
18. Consider buying a drop leaf picnic table to plonk down outside the pubs and restaurants. No reservation, no problem.
19. Realise you’re officially at the age where any noise is enough to send you over the edge.
20. Mentally prepare yourself for four lads in jeans. Beer garden pollen attracts them.
