Why absolutely everyone should pay to fly First Class at least once

The Independent
Race to the sun begins – with 30 flights to Portugal and three to Gibraltar
With few takers, Ryanair has cut fares to the Algarve to below £10
5 hours ago
Refinery 29 UK
These Companies Are Now Offering Paid Leave After Pregnancy Loss
Two prominent UK employers are now offering employees paid leave in the event of pregnancy loss. Channel 4 and digital bank Monzo will offer either partner up to two weeks’ paid leave following a pregnancy loss such as a miscarriage, abortion or stillbirth. “At Channel 4 we recognise that the loss of a pregnancy, no matter the circumstances, can be a form of grief that can have a lasting emotional and physical impact on the lives of many women and their partners,” Channel 4’s CEO Alex Mahon said in a statement announcing the policy last month . “We hope that by giving away this pioneering policy we’re able to encourage other organisations to do the same,” Mahon added. Digital bank Monzo has announced a similar policy this week. Either partner will be offered up to 10 days of paid leave following any form of pregnancy loss. The bank also announced that employees undergoing “fertility treatments, diagnosis or consultations” will be offered up to eight additional days of extra paid leave each year. “This might be used for taking time to rest after a procedure, recover from the emotional effects of treatments or to attend outpatient appointments and scans,” the bank said. Responding to the companies’ introduction of paid leave following pregnancy loss, the Miscarriage Association said: “It’s good to see examples of supportive workplaces. We hope some of the recent publicity about paid bereavement leave will encourage more employers to do likewise.” More than one in five pregnancies ends in miscarriage — around a quarter of a million in the UK each year, according to the Miscarriage Association. Under current UK law, employers are only required to offer paid leave to parents if they lose a baby 24 weeks or later into a pregnancy. If a woman suffers a pregnancy loss before the 24-week mark, she may be entitled to eave provided she obtains a note from her GP. However, there is no guarantee that this will be paid. New Zealand voted in March to introduce mandatory paid leave for couples who suffer a miscarriage or stillbirth at any stage of a pregnancy. Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
11 hours ago
The Independent
Keeping up with travel: a new daily podcast from Simon Calder
Get the latest in this daily audio briefing in 10 minutes or less
16 hours ago
Cosmo
Tiger King's Joe Exotic reveals he’s battling prostate cancer in prison
He's currently serving a 22-year sentence
16 hours ago
Harper’s Bazaar
Herd of life-size elephant sculptures displayed outside Buckingham Palace
100 Asian elephants were pictured crossing the Mall in London
16 hours ago
Refinery 29 UK
This Is How Many Renters Are Planning To Leave The City Post-Lockdown
The pandemic is continuing to have a significant impact on where we want to live, according to a new survey. A hefty 40% of renters who took part in a SpareRoom poll said they are hoping to move post-lockdown. More than three-quarters (76%) said they are planning to leave their current town or city. A slightly higher percentage of London renters – 77% – said they are intending to quit the city, despite the fact that some neighbourhoods are actually becoming more affordable. “Over the past year we’ve seen the effect Covid-19 had on London rents, with averages falling consistently in four consecutive quarters,” said SpareRoom’s Matt Hutchinson. “That’s driven largely by a drop in demand compared to supply, as renters left the capital during lockdown. At the same time, rents have risen slightly in the rest of the UK.” The survey also revealed a wide variety of reasons for renters deciding to leave the city. A total of 13% said they would like to be closer to friends and family – and the same percentage said access to nature and green space is a priority for them. Meanwhile, 12% said they like the idea of having their own place and 8% said they want to have more space to work from home. Although coastal towns and quiet country villages have become the new rental hotspots, SpareRoom’s Matt Hutchinson suggested that London could rebound over the summer. “As the country starts to open up more over the coming weeks and months, we’ll see pent up demand being released,” he said”We’ll also see the return of jobs in sectors like entertainment, hospitality and tourism, which London relies so heavily on. “Whether that means a mass return to the capital, or whether some of those who left won’t return remains to be seen,” he added. “But we do expect things to shift over the summer.” Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
17 hours ago
Red
Netflix’s Bridgerton is set to release spin-off series focused on Queen Charlotte
The Bridgerton-verse is expanding!
17 hours ago
Cosmo
Jesy Nelson is platinum blonde now and we're obsessed
And it's 🔥🔥🔥
17 hours ago
Harper’s Bazaar
Sarah Jessica Parker shares rare photo of her son ahead of his graduation
The actress wrote a tribute that's basically poetry
17 hours ago
Harper’s Bazaar
Prince Charles plans to give public greater access to royal palaces when he is King
Charles is said to be consulting family members over greater public access
17 hours ago
Cosmo
Lily James serves up serious 90s vibes in Pam's iconic red swimsuit
Give hair and make up *all* the awards
18 hours ago
Refinery 29 UK
The 13 Most Anticipated Netflix Summer Movies Of 2021
Netflix made subscribers a big promise in 2021: new movies, every week, for the entire year. And now that we're about halfway through the year, Netflix's summer movie collection is rolling out. What's in store? Thrillers, teen rom-coms, zombies, and… beloved landscape painter Bob Ross? Sure, throw him in there, too. But, with so many new movies being released on Netflix, what are the best ones to watch? To help you out in your movie-watching journey, we've narrowed down some of the most anticipated films to hit the streaming service this summer, along with some smaller films that shouldn't be overlooked. Because while you've probably heard a lot about the fact that a gender-swapped She's All That remake is coming (titled He's All That, naturally), you may not have heard of an Indian film about a teenage skateboarder (Skater Girl) or a Brazilian comedy about an influencer getting her party on after a bad breakup (Carnaval). Click through to find out about all these upcoming Netflix movies that will, at the very least, be the topics of conversation. There's going to be a lot of summer heat to hide from in the coming months. At least we've got a few reasons to stay inside.The Woman in the WindowRelease date: May 14Amy Adams stars in The Woman in the Window, a thriller about an agoraphobic woman based on the novel of the same name by A.J. Finn. The film's release has been delayed significantly and unfortunately, the film comes from executive producer Scott Rudin. But Adams fans may still want to give it a chance, so it may just become a topic of conversation for Monday morning small talk.Army of the DeadRelease Date: May 21A group is sent on a mission to retrieve $200 million (£140 million) hidden in a safe below the Las Vegas strip. The problem? Las Vegas has been taken over by zombies — zombies that are faster and more intelligent than your typical ones. Dave Bautista, Omari Hardwick, Tig Notaro, Ella Purnell, and more star in this film from Zack Snyder.Carnaval Release Date: June 2Carnaval is a Brazilian comedy about an influencer who takes three of her friends on an all-expenses-paid trip to Carnaval in Salvador after her boyfriend cheats on her. They have a wild time while they're there and meet some new love interests, naturally.AwakeRelease Date: June 9Gina Rodriguez stars in Awake, a sci-fi movie about a world in which all electricity and cars stop working and humans lose the ability to sleep. All humans, that is, except for the young daughter (Ariana Greenblatt) of Rodriguez's character. Could she hold the answer to the mystery?Skater GirlRelease Date: June 11Skater Girl is a film about a teenager (Rachel Sanchita Gupta) in rural India who dreams of becoming a competitive skateboarder by faces struggles as she tries to achieve her goal. Photo: Courtesy of Netflix.Good on PaperRelease Date: June 23Good on Paper follows a standup comedian (played by actual standup comedian Iliza Shlesinger, who also wrote the film), who thinks she's found love with a guy who is "good on paper," but finds out he may be too good to be true.Photo: Courtesy of Netflix.The Last Letter from Your LoverRelease Date: July 23If you want to see people in pretty settings fall in love in '60s garb, then this one's for you. The Last Letter from Your Lover follows two storylines. In the present day, a journalist (Felicity Jones) is researching old love letters she came across. In the 1960s, a forbidden love story is playing out between a man (Callum Turner) and woman (Shailene Woodley).Resort to LoveRelease Date: July 29Escape to an island paradise with Resort to Love. The romantic comedy stars Christina Milian as a singer who gets hired to perform at a resort in Mauritius. Soon, though, she finds out that her ex-fiancé (Jay Pharoah) is getting married there and her feelings for him return.The Kissing Booth 3Release Date: August 11Joey King, Jacob Elordi, and Joel Courtney return for some more teen drama and hijinks in the final movie in the Kissing Booth series. This time, King's character, Elle, has to decide whether to attend college with her boyfriend or her best friend. Sweet GirlRelease Date: August 20Jason Momoa is out for revenge in Sweet Girl. The thriller is about a man seeking justice following the death his wife, all while protecting his daughter (Isabela Merced). Photo: Courtesy of Netflix.BeckettRelease Date: August 27Malcolm & Marie star John David Washington and Alicia Vikander star in the action-thriller Beckett. They play a couple holidaying in Greece who end up getting involved in a dangerous conspiracy. Photo: Courtesy of Netflix.He's All ThatRelease Date: August 27The original She's All That got a gender-swapped remake. He's All That stars TikTok star Addison Rae as a high schooler, Padgett, who tries to turn an unpopular boy (Tanner Buchanan) from her class into prom king. The star of the original film, Rachael Leigh Cook, returns to play Padgett's mother. Bob Ross: Happy Accidents, Betrayal & GreedRelease date: TBA It's quite a dramatic title for a film about a man who paints "happy trees," but that's because this documentary looks in to betrayals Ross faced during his life and the handling of his estate following his 1995 death. You may need to watch a few episodes of his happy, little show after this one.Photo: Acey Harper/The LIFE Images Collection/Getty Images.Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?The Top 10 Titles Streaming On Netflix17 Sharpest Horror Movies By Women On ShudderThese Shows & Movies Get College Totally Right
18 hours ago
Refinery 29 UK
This Halston Finale Quote Captures Exactly What Make The Series So Frustrating
Major spoilers for Halston on Netflix are ahead. Netflix’s Halston is studded with arguments. Fourth episode “The Party’s Over” features the loudest and most upsetting ones, as the series’ titular leading man (Ewan McGregor) destroys the connections most important to him. He antagonizes muse Elsa Peretti (Rebecca Dayan) during a Long Island getaway, forcing her to flee in the middle of lunch. The next time Halston sees Elsa, he screams at her in Studio 54 and tries to rip a fur coat off of her body. Minutes later, Halston calls his illustrator Joe Eula (David Pittu) a “beta” and “an embarrassment,” pushing him to leave the Halston loft near tears. Yet, none of these raucous moments actually get to the heart of Halston’s habit of self destruction, which is the cornerstone of Halston itself. Instead, that scene arrives quietly in Halston’s finale, “Critics,” and unexpectedly comes from Halston’s forced collaborator John David Ridge (Jack Mikesell). “How dare you?” John yells at Halston. “You are the most talented man I have ever met, and you are throwing it all away.” These two sentences are the crux of Halston. If the series were at its best, it would aim to solve the inner workings of why someone so gifted would blow up the empire they spent their “whole life working for,” as David says. Halston does not — that is its fatal flaw. By the time Halston — based on Steven Gaines’ 1991 biography Simply Halston — ends, viewers have witnessed all the chronological steps that led to Halston’s final years (at least according to this ultimately fictionalised series). After unmitigated success in the late ‘60s and ‘70s, Halston becomes the brightest star in American fashion. A benefit show against French designers in Versailles puts him over the top, leading to a multimillion dollar business deal with corporation Norton Simon. Soon enough, Halston is designing everything from carpets to flight attendant uniforms. He is miserable. The more successful Halston becomes, the more intent he is to burn his life down and wreck any working relationship, whether it be business or personal. When “Critics” ends, Halston has quit his own namesake company due to dissatisfaction with mounting soulless licensing deals, his own substance abuse battles, and exhaustion from a secret AIDS diagnosis. An abrupt conversation with Halston’s lawyer Nick (Juri Henley-Cohn) informs viewers that, at some point off-screen, Halston “gave away all his leverage” with Norton Simon by spilling the details of their legal proceedings to the press. Halston is left taking a deal “a hundred times worse” than what was initially on the table. “I know, I went off the deep end,” Halston demures. But, the series is uninterested in exploring the emotional reality that drove Halston into such a classically masochistic action, or why he was so deeply unhappy in the first place. As his successful Martha Graham costumes prove later in the episode, Halston’s terror over his failing health has not zapped him of his creativity or sense. So why ruin the exit deal? HALSTON (L to R) KRYSTA RODRIGUEZ as LIZA MINNELLI and EWAN MCGREGOR as HALSTON in episode 105 of HALSTON Cr. ATSUSHI NISHIJIMA/NETFLIX © 2021 Certain passing moments attempt to suggest insecurity may be the root cause of Halston’s worst behaviour. Second episode “Versailles” follows Halston as he attempts to avoid its central fashion competition — against storied fashion designers like Yves Saint Laurent and Hubert de Givenchy — at all costs. When Halston’s show appears destined to flop in front of the world, he hides in a getaway car to the airport, skittish and smoking. Best friend Liza Minnelli (Krysta Rodriguez) is the only person who can coax Halston out of the vehicle and back into the game. This same fear of rejection plays out over the finale with Halston’s relationship with bad reviews — they are a phobia and obsession in one. While Halston occasionally nods to its hero’s possible self doubt, it also heavily leans on his bubbling bravado for its flashier moments. Halston is also shown to be someone who bets $50,000 (£35,000) on their own unconventional perfume idea and builds a design house from nothing. This is someone who believes in themselves. If Halston wants us to truly imagine someone this ambitious would let their life’s work flounder as it does over Halston’s five episodes, it needs to deeply invest in the darkest parts of his emotional world. We need to hear Halston spill the specific needling details of his inner monologue to a loved one — beyond the basic and rushed “Versailles” car conversation— or know more about who Halston was before life as a monymous trendsetter. Even flashbacks to Halston’s childhood, during which he witnessed his mother’s continued abuse by his father, are intended to explain his dedication to beauty as a salve for all things — not his current emotional predicaments. Terrible things just happen in Halston, as the designer skips work, snorts cocaine, and insults his closest confidants. There is little psychological explanation for the increasing havoc around the fashion brand other than “That’s just Halston!” One of Halston’s biggest themes is the suggestion that its protagonist was so caught up in evoking beauty during every second, he never allowed anyone — save for maybe Liza Minnelli — to get to know the real him. It feels as though Halston doesn’t know the real Halston either. Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?The "Mank" Cast Vs. The Real PeopleYour Summer 2021 TV Preview Is HereThe Origin Of Nurse Ratched As Told By Ryan Murphy
18 hours ago
Refinery 29 UK
Meet The Cast Of Characters In Amazon’s The Underground Railroad
Slight spoilers are ahead. Like the detailed routes throughout the actual Underground Railroad, the cast of characters involved in the journey depicted in the new Amazon Prime series are plentiful. The Underground Railroad's visually captivating story of runaway slave Cora Randall spans a plethora of states — from Georgia to North Carolina to Indiana — over the course of months, with each new town bringing people who mean to both help and harm her into her proximity.The Underground Railroad is, at its core, not just Cora’s story. Viewers are taken on a journey through multiple characters’ origins, as well as their hopes for the future. With slaves, slave catchers, freeborn men and women and abolitionists alike given their chance to tell their story over the course of 10 episodes, viewers walk away from the series more knowledgeable about what led each character to become involved in the system known as the U.S. slave trade. For some, it’s hatred. For many others, it’s a fact of life they must live with. Like the locomotives that give the titular railroad its name being underground, the system connects our characters in a way they can’t always see, for better and for worse. These are the characters who make up The Underground Railroad and how they’re involved in Cora’s epic journey.Thuso Mbedu plays Cora RandallThe heroine of The Underground Railroad, Cora initially doesn’t see a life for herself beyond the Randall plantation. After her escape with Caesar, however, she begins to envision a life for herself as a free woman far away from the Southern U.S.; the kind of woman her mother Mabel became after she abandoned a young Cora during her escape.South African actor Mbedu is largely known for her television work, most notably in the South African series Is'Thunzi, which earned her an International Emmy nomination in 2017.Photo: Courtesy of Amazon Studios.Aaron Pierre plays Caesar GarnerCaesar was sold to the Randall plantation in Georgia after being promised his freedom following his master’s death in Virginia. A sharp and literate man — a trait he must hide as an enslaved man — Caesar has connections to the Underground Railroad prior to his and Cora’s escape, ensuring their safe getaway from Georgia.British actor Pierre was known for this stage and TV work prior to The Underground Railroad. He starred in the SyFy series Krypton and played Cassio in the Globe Theatre’s 2018 run of Othello in London. Photo: Courtesy of Amazon Studios.Joel Edgerton plays Arnold RidgewayRidgeway is a slave catcher with a reputation for being the best in his line of work. But the skills he takes pride in can’t hide the religious and moral guilt he clearly struggles with. He sets his sights on capturing Cora and Caesar soon after their escape, a job he takes especially seriously since Mabel, Cora’s mother, was the only slave to evade him.Edgerton is famous for his starring roles in films like Star Wars: Episode II and III, Zero Dark Thirty, The Great Gatsby, and Loving.Photo: Courtesy of Amazon Studios.Chase W. Dillon plays HomerA free young boy, Homer is Ridgeway's assistant and informant, helping him track down any runaway slaves the man has his sights on. Homer was bought by Ridgeway to settle a debt, and was offered his freedom almost immediately. He refused and decided to assist the man down his cruel life path instead.Twelve-year-old Dillon has starred in The First Wives Club TV series on BET, Little America on Apple TV, and That Damn Michael Che on HBO Max.Photo: Courtesy of Amazon Studios.Will Poulter plays SamSam is a station agent for the Underground Railroad and helps Cora and Caesar begin their new lives in South Carolina after their escape from Georgia. He is also involved with the local efforts to include free Black men and women into post-slavery society.Poulter earned praise during his career for his roles in the comedy We Are The Millers, The Maze Runner and Maze Runner: The Death Cure, Netflix’s Black Mirror: Bandersnatch and Midsommar.Photo: Courtesy of Amazon Studios.William Jackson Harper plays RoyalRoyal helps Cora escape from Ridgeway while the latter is passing through his family farm in Tennessee. Born as a free man, Royal dedicates his life to the Underground Railroad mission and helping enslaved men and women escape to better lives. He develops a fondness for Cora during their time on the Valentine farm in Indiana.Harper first rose to prominence as Chidi Anagonye on The Good Place from 2016 to 2020. Since then, he’s starred in the films Midsommar and Dark Waters and will star in the second season of Love Life.Photo: Courtesy of Amazon Studios.Damon Herriman plays MartinMartin is a station agent based in North Carolina who takes Cora in after she escapes South Carolina. His life in an overtly religious and racist town and his marriage to Ethel, a bigot, make him a nervous wreck who must hide his involvement in the abolitionist movement.The Australian actor has portrayed Charles Manson twice in his career, on Netflix’s Mindhunter and in Once Upon a Time in Hollywood. Herriman also starred as Dewey Crowe in Justified from 2010 to 2015.Photo: Courtesy of Amazon Studios.Lily Rabe plays EthelEthel is Martin's wife and the unwilling holder of his secret effort to help slaves travel through the Underground Railroad. Despite living with Cora and Grace, another slave who secretly takes residence in their home thanks to Martin, Ethel considers them beneath her and sub-human. Her faith in God is the only thing helping her cope with keeping their secret.Rabe has remained a staple in Ryan Murphy's American Horror Story anthology series, portraying several different characters since the show’s inception in 2010. She’s also starred in the TV series Legion and The Undoing and in numerous stage productions, most notably Shakespearean works.Photo: Courtesy of Amazon Studios.Amber Gray plays Gloria ValentineGloria Valentine is the wife of John Valentine, the owner of Valentine Farm in Indiana, where Royal and Cora live after leaving Tennessee. Despite being born a slave herself, Gloria continuously works to bury any trace of her lineage in her speech and instead adopts a more proud demeanour.A stage veteran, Gray originated the role of Persephone in the Tony-winning Broadway musical Hadestown. She also starred as Hélène Bezukhova in the musical Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812.Photo: Courtesy of Amazon Studios.Sheila Atim plays MabelMabel is Cora's mother, a woman who escaped the Randall plantation in Cora's youth and, subsequently, Ridgeway's grasp. Mabel is infamous among the Randall plantation slaves as a selfish, careless person to leave her only daughter behind in search of freedom. Her lack of a presence weighs heavy on Cora, who vows to beat Mabel should the two ever meet again.The British-both Atim is another actor whose first love is the stage, having starred in various Shakespearean plays including The Tempest, Henry IV and Othello. She’s also starred in Girl from the North Country as Marianne Laine.Photo: Courtesy of Amazon Studios.Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?In Defense Of Black CriticismNew Horror Series "Them" Is All Trauma, No HeartBlack Women: Fighting For Cannabis Industry Equity
18 hours ago
Refinery 29 UK
Your Horoscope This Week: May 16, 2021
uThe last days of Taurus season make themselves known this week, hitting the snooze button and begging for just a few more hours of rest. Meanwhile, with Venus and Mercury clamouring for attention and stimulation in Gemini, rest isn’t really on the itinerary. Of course, just because something’s not on the schedule doesn’t mean it’s not available to those who demand it. With the shadow of Mercury retrograde in full effect and the imminence of the Sun’s ingress into Gemini, communication is key if anyone expects to get their needs met — but, we all know how tricky communication can be in a shadow period. On May 21st, the Sun in Gemini will square Jupiter in Pisces, an aspect that’s sure to have us negotiating our expectations. On the collective front, our relationship to knowledge is changing. International issues that were once framed as “conflicts” or “arguments” are reframed within a larger narrative of colonisation and suppression, whether it’s Israel’s inhumane occupation of Palestine, the ongoing war against ethnic Armenians in Azerbaijan, or the uprising against police violence in Colombia. We are called to reckon with our role in, our relationship with, our endorsement of the information that is shared and information that’s suppressed. Aries Sun & Aries RisingOn the surface, this week should be a relatively smooth-going one for you and it’s unlikely that you’ll find yourself fielding any out-of-turn behaviour or last-minute surprises. But the smoothness of the sea doesn’t dictate the state of what lives below it. If anything, it gives you a clearer view of an internal world that’s much more sensitive and deeply affected than you let on, even to yourself. Let what’s coming in-focus for you come — even if it hurts to acknowledge it, even if you’d rather feel anything else. While it’s true that there are certain tasks, agreements, and commitments that require your attention, being productive will only delay your heart’s needs; it will not quiet them.Illustration by Stefhany LozanoTaurus Sun & Taurus RisingIt’s true that many planets have shifted under the stars of Gemini, including your ruling planet Venus, but you need not rush to keep up. The last few days of the Sun’s journey through Taurus are no less vital to you than when the hot eye of the Sun first glanced upon your stars. Endings offer up their own mixed blessings, even if they seem bitter. Some green things are seeded not to last but rather to enrich the soil for whatever it is we really wish to cultivate. If you can accept that loss — whether it relates to a person, a job, or an opportunity — is only a part of a story rather than the conclusion, then you can turn the page with anticipation, and — dare I say — pleasure.Illustration by Stefhany LozanoGemini Sun & Gemini RisingWhen it’s almost your season and there’s numerous glowing celestial balls in your court, the shadow of Mercury retrograde can feel like a cruel trick. But you are worth your shine and due some fun in the sun, dear Gemini. That’s why it’s worth your while to engage this Mercury shadow period head-on rather than skirting around the issues until the retrograde motion becomes more apparent and spoils the fun. There’s no sleight of hand that can make an issue disappear, and anything swept under a rug is sure to make a noticeable bump later. Reply to that email, file that paperwork, and when you can’t move forward, be candid about what’s holding you back. Illustration by Stefhany LozanoCancer Sun & Cancer RisingWith the last days of Taurus season upon us, the ongoing influence of the Taurus new moon, and Mars holding court under your stars, it’s a great time for you to meditate on the difference between your actions and your reactions. Mars rules cardinal Aries and it’s not as comfortable in cardinal Cancer as one might hope. The protective nature of Cancer is heightened under this influence and while it may serve your community and loved ones, it can lead to unintentionally defensive behaviour on your part. Of course, there are moments when defence is called for, but, sometimes, a clarifying question will protect your energy a whole lot more than your armour. Illustration by Stefhany LozanoLeo Sun & Leo RisingAs the years go on, the kinds of relationships we are capable of change and transform. There is no formula, no one way these things go, but there is an understanding that while the pleasure of encounter is imminent, closeness takes time. Closeness, or intimacy, is available to any kind of relationship we build and not just with other people, either. There’s intimacy in developing a relationship to your body in a physically challenging practice and there’s intimacy in deeping an artistic one. Whatever or whoever you’re building a relationship with, Leo, remind yourself that it takes time. What things feel like now is only a reflection of the moment, not the limit.Illustration by Stefhany LozanoVirgo Sun & Virgo RisingFor many people, our earliest memories of teachers are those who have authority over us. They are our instructors and our guardians. Occasionally, for those who are curious enough, a teacher can be found in the natural world by way of an animal or a garden. “Curious” might be the operative word here, inviting the individual to identify and acknowledge a lesson rather than receive it. If we’re curious, we begin to realise that we receive lessons whether we notice or not, repeatedly. They’re available everywhere, from anyone. Look again at the small workings of your world, the people, projects, and creatures that fill your week. If there is a challenge, there is a message.Illustration by Stefhany LozanoLibra Sun & Libra RisingThere’s this idea in the craft of poetry that working within a form, like a pantoum, can be as freeing as it is restrictive. It’s said that sometimes one needs to know the rules in order to break them — but, rebellion isn’t the only pleasure to be had in doing so. Most living things enjoy a bit of restraint, a rein to pull against, stone on either side of a river, lips tight against a whistle. Form gives us a challenge for which freedom is the answer. If, within your discipline or generative process, you’ve found yourself overwhelmed with choice, consider the forms available to you. Whether it’s a ritual, a routine, or a material constraint, deciding to work with less will serve you more.Illustration by Stefhany LozanoScorpio Sun & Scorpio RisingThe word “secure” is tricky. With lovers, we seek secure attachment but settle for over-processing. There’s the tenuous notion of job security and the failure of social security. Nations are obsessed with security at our borders, but borders are man-made and subject to change, which makes them, by nature, an insecure division. It’s important to remember that security is not a permanent state. And, while it’s valuable for inner work (feeling secure about yourself, your lovability), it can be a trap when we seek it from others (this job is paying me so well, why would I leave?). Try to notice when your need for inner security is in conflict with the transient nature of security from external sources. Illustration by Stefhany LozanoSagittarius Sun & Sagittarius RisingSagittarius is a fire sign, it’s true, but an arrow needs wind and desires direction. If your fire begins in the mind, dear Sagittarius, it’s carried by language into the world. And, there’s no guarantee how your thoughts or ideas will land, but few original things come with guarantees anyway so why wait for one? If you’re holding yourself back, release the arrow. The original thing, the untried thing, that is the test. Those who respond and resonate are the answer. If this week offers you the opportunity to put yourself out there, to take a social or intellectual risk, take it. Your mind was never meant to be a secret, lonely thing. It flourishes in company; it flies.Illustration by Stefhany LozanoCapricorn Sun & Capricorn RisingIt’s one thing to know that wealth is more than what’s in the bank and a whole other thing to approach daily affairs that way. The universe, for better or worse, is here to remind you that a community net can be just as valuable as a financial one — if not more so. This reminder can come in various forms. While some can be heavy handed, like realising you’d made a bad deal, you’re just as likely to receive positive reinforcement from mutual admirers. The regard you offer others and your willingness to turn every stone over have not gone unnoticed and won’t. Even if what you sign up for is no sure thing, you can be sure that you have a strong net to fall back on.Illustration by Stefhany LozanoAquarius Sun & Aquarius RisingJust because things can get a little heavy doesn’t mean you can’t prioritise feeling good. It must be some kind of human preoccupation, to immerse oneself in an emotion and make that emotion all there is. But, you know better. You know how to ride a wave from shore to shore, you know that waves can affect a coastline but that the land is something else entirely. Which is all to say that there’s nothing wrong with carrying an emotion instead of lying down in it and letting it carry you. It doesn’t make the emotion any less potent; it doesn’t make your heart any less true.Illustration by Stefhany LozanoPisces Sun & Pisces RisingJupiter has dipped his celestial toe into Pisces and it’s expected that Pisces people will rejoice Especially since Jupiter’s ingress into Pisces is a kind of homecoming. It’s possible that you’ll feel a shift this week, a smooth energetic flow where once there might have been static. This flow isn’t a miraculous one-time occurrence, so you need not treat it that way. It’s always already around you and you are invited to work with it. Choose what comes easily this week. If a current makes itself known, is it a current that would feel good to ride? If a problem arises, can you see its ultimate direction? Say no when no feels right, but focus on noticing to whom you want to say yes.Illustration by Stefhany LozanoLike what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?Venus In Gemini Marks The Start Of Hot Girl SummerIs Jupiter In Pisces The Best Transit Of 2021?Obsessed With Astrology? Thank TikTok — & COVID
18 hours ago
Harper’s Bazaar
The Cambridge children are missing great grandfather Prince Philip
Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis miss their "much loved great-grandfather"
18 hours ago
The Telegraph
How to spend the perfect Sunday in the 'real' Prague
Prague’s long-lived popularity among the stag-do hordes has created something of a schism among visitors from abroad; many are prepared to tolerate the boozy hedonism to spend time in the Gothic architecture, ancient bridges and castle ramparts. Others swerve the place and look ever eastwards towards Kyev and Vilnius for their next eastern Europe getaway. But the “real” Prague of soft, dappled sunlight, crumbling gargoyles and cobbled alleys can be yours with the aid of nothing more than an alarm clock. Rise early on a Sunday and even Wenceslas Square and the Charles Bridge won’t be overly crowded, especially if you get there by 9am. Rub your eyes, stride out early and your reward is a sublime (and almost guilt-free) Czech beer on the stroke of noon. Got The Brunchies? When the cafés of Prague got down to the art of the contemporary brunch, they seem to have communally decided that it wasn’t possible to do it right without eggs. Lots of them. In myriad forms but always in immense quantities. If you can handle the cholesterol count then head to Misto (Bubenecska 12, Dejvice, 00 420 727 914 535, mistoprovas.cz, open from 10am, mains about £5.50) whose modish blonde wood interior is a breezy spot for scrambled eggs with basil, parsley, chives and shallots on sourdough, They also do a sensational almond rum coffee. It’s listed in every guidebook and is hardly an insider’s secret but Café Savoy (Vítezna 5, Mala Strana, 00420 731 136 144, cafesavoy.ambi.cz, open from 8am, mains about £8) still wows with its art deco interior, flawless service and dizzying assortment of pastries. Booking in advance on a Sunday morning is essential to devour their scrambled egg stuffed croissants and omelettes with local vavrinec cheese. But be warned: this is a space where Prague’s “bargain” reputation firmly comes to a halt.
19 hours ago
Country Living
7 ways the garden has evolved in the last four decades
"Soon, a well-designed garden will be as important as a well-designed kitchen."
20 hours ago
Refinery 29 UK
Zara Makeup Is As Good As Luxury Brands. Here’s What It Looks Like On
Zara's beauty range has been on the tip of everyone's tongue since the launch of its lipstick collection in 2018 and an exciting segue into perfume alongside Jo Malone a year later. Excitingly, the brand has just quadrupled its beauty offering with an entire makeup collection set to rival your favourite luxury and high street brands.From lipstick in a handful of different shades and finishes (matte, demi-matte, satin and balm) to shimmer-matte eyeshadow palettes, bronzing bricks and cheek compacts, Zara's makeup collection is bigger and better than ever before. It makes sense, considering makeup artist and industry legend Diane Kendal is the brains behind the creative direction.The collection, which starts at an affordable £5.99, promises high performance ingredients and places a focus on sustainability, as all compacts and lipstick tubes are refillable. That's what we like to hear. But is the makeup really worth the hype? Here are a beauty editor's honest thoughts on the range. Refinery29's selection is purely editorial and independently chosen – we only feature items we love! As part of our business model we do work with affiliates; if you directly purchase something from a link on this article, we may earn a small amount of commission. Transparency is important to us at Refinery29, if you have any questions please reach out to us.I'm going to let you in on a secret: in terms of formula and colour, this is practically an exact dupe of the sold-out Supreme x Pat McGrath lipstick everyone went wild for recently, and it's my new favourite. The colour payoff is incredible, the feel is smooth not drying, the square bullet makes it easy to apply without lip liner and the staying power is truly unrivalled. I only required one quick top-up after eating and the colour was as vibrant as when I'd first applied it. At £6.99 it's a steal and there are 14 shades to choose from to suit all skin tones.I'm also wearing the Cheek Color Palette in Impeccable Touch, applied with the Small Blush Brush, which is so soft. Swirled together, the blush and bronzer made a lovely peach shade which applied so easily and didn't budge until I removed it, but the highlighter fell short and didn't pop like I wanted it to. I'll be sticking to my trusty Charlotte Tilbury Superstar Glow. Unfortunately, the cheek colour range is small. Vieve's Sunset Blush, £23, is similar in texture and comes in a wider range of shades for all skin tones.Charlotte Tilbury Hollywood Superstar Glow Powder Highlighter, $, available at Charlotte TilburyZara Small Blush Brush, $, available at ZaraZara Cheek Colour Palette in Impeccable Touch, $, available at ZaraZara Ultimate Matte Lipstick in Original, $, available at ZaraVIEVE Sunset Blush, $, available at Cult BeautyThere are five eyeshadow palettes to choose from but I tried Clash Out. I have to admit, I'm not too keen on the colours. The glittery purple and yellow gold shades feel outdated when you compare them to popular eyeshadow palettes by Charlotte Tilbury and Huda Beauty, which combine wearable golds and flattering nudes. I love the look of Earthy Warm instead. Though I'm not a big fan of the colours in the palette I tried, everything is easy to blend and there's no dusty fallout whatsoever. I applied my eye makeup at 8am and come 8pm, it was still intact and didn't crease at all. The pigment is better than any designer eyeshadow I've tried. The palettes get sustainability points for being refillable, too.I'm also wearing the Stiletto Demi-Matte Lipstick in La Journée, which is slim enough to throw inside the tiniest of bags. It's glossy and hydrating, then dries down to more of a matte colour which I really enjoyed. However, I did have to reapply this multiple times, as the staying power isn't as brilliant as the matte lipsticks.Zara Eyeshadow Palette in Clash Out, $, available at ZaraZara Eyeshadow Palette in Earthy Warm, $, available at ZaraZara Stiletto Demi-Matte Lipstick in La Journée, $, available at ZaraI thought this Satin Lipstick in Bonne wouldn't be my thing but it dried down to the loveliest stain, giving my lips that 'just bitten' look. It's moisturising, too, so you can skip the lip balm. Next, I want to try Buttercup and Nude Fiction.Again, I'm wearing the Clash Out Eye Shadow Palette, but this time I combined the matte pink shade (third in the bottom row) with the glittery taupe hue (second in the top row). They blended so well but on my skin tone I'd prefer something a lot warmer. Shades like this are probably better suited to paler skin but the collection does have plenty of palettes for a wider range of skin tones. I can't fault the staying power (very impressive) and I enjoyed using the super soft brushes. I pulled the look together with a swash of Bronzing Powder, which I think is on par with luxury versions in terms of the buttery pigment and how well it lasts. But the shade range really does need to be expanded. The Large Powder Brush was a little too soft for my liking, though; I used the bareMinerals Blooming Brush, which is a bit more dense and blends more seamlessly.Zara Cult Satin Lipstick in Pretty Bizarre, $, available at ZaraZara Bronzing Powder, $, available at ZaraZara Large Powder Brush, $, available at ZarabareMinerals Blooming Makeup Brush, $, available at bareMineralsLike what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?Yes, Trinny London Really Is Worth The Beauty HypeL'Oréal x Elie Saab Makeup Is Affordable LuxuryBold Yet Simple Makeup Trends To Try Post-Lockdown
21 hours ago
Refinery 29 UK
5 Sandal Styles You’re About To See Everywhere This Summer
At the beginning of the year, summer felt like a false memory. British winters often feel never-ending but in a year that saw most of us confined to our homes, the seemingly relentless cold weather was almost too much to bear. Thankfully, the sun is finally starting to rear its head – and bringing with it a bucketload of newly sanctioned, socially distanced activities. So what better way to celebrate the arrival of the warm weather (and gatherings that don’t require a majorly advance restaurant booking) than with a new pair of sandals? After a year of wearing slippers, we're ushering in a new wave of stylish sandals to accessorise our show-stopping summer wardrobe. Don't worry though, chic doesn’t have to mean uncomfortable: some of the season's biggest trends are built around fashion and function. Whether you're searching for the perfect pair of sandals to wear to Sunday brunch or some fancy flip-flops for a seaside staycation, there are tons of covetable shoes to shop this summer. To check out the biggest sandal trends on the agenda for 2021, click through the slideshow ahead...Refinery29's selection is purely editorial and independently chosen – we only feature items we love! As part of our business model we do work with affiliates; if you directly purchase something from a link on this article, we may earn a small amount of commission. Transparency is important to us at Refinery29, if you have any questions please reach out to us.Fisherman SandalsFor a sensible sandal that works just as well with socks as it does with tanned toes, you can't go wrong with fisherman sandals. Since The Row debuted its much-coveted caged design last year, closed-off sandals have become a firm favourite of fashion's finest, offering wearers full foot protection and lightweight breathability. St. Agni Black Axel Leather Sandals, $, available at BrownsZara Flat Leather Cage Sandals, $, available at ZaraDr Martens Leather Fisherman Sandals, $, available at DR MARTENSToast Steve Mono Artisanal Sandals, $, available at ToastGrenson Quincy Leather Sandals, $, available at Net-A-PorterSlinky Slip-OnsCast your mind back to pretty much any '90s teen movie and you'll remember that the coolest girls in school wore platform mules. This summer, the slinky sandals are making a major comeback, with Steve Madden's original chunky slip-on acting as inspiration. Just add butterfly clips and a mini backpack for the perfect Clueless-inspired look. & Other Stories Leather Platform Sandals, $, available at & Other StoriesVagabond Courtney Sandals, $, available at VagabondArket Flatform Slides, $, available at ArketSteve Madden Slinky Black Sandal, $, available at Steve MaddenMonki Flatform Sandals, $, available at MonkiDad SandalsIf 2020 taught us anything, it's that comfort is key. There was a widespread desire for comfortable shoes, with everyone on the internet pining after a pair of Chanel 'dad sandals'. Now, in 2021, two-strap sandals have finally made it to the mainstream, providing padded, practical styles for the masses. Arket Chunky Leather Sandals, $, available at ArketVagabond Erin Sandals, $, available at VagabondDUNE LONDON Lockstockk In Blue, $, available at Dune& Other Stories Croc Embossed Leather Sandals, $, available at & Other StoriesBirkenstock x Proenza Schouler Milano Leather Sandals, $, available at Matches FashionFlatform Flip-FlopsAnother sandal trend looking to the past this summer is the flatform flip-flop. No, we don't mean the foamy kind you wear on the beach; we mean the chic thong sandals plastered all over your explore page. From The Row's Ginza to Jacquemus' Les Tatanes, these statement shoes combine platform soles and leather uppers to create the sweetest '00s-inspired style.Massimo Dutti Black V-Vamp Platform Sandals, $, available at Massimo DuttiDUNE LONDON Padded Toe Post Flatform Sandals, $, available at Dune LondonZara Satin Flat Platform Sandals, $, available at ZaraMango Mango Chunky Sole Flip Flop In Black, $, available at ASOSMarks & Spencer Leather Flatform Flip Flops, $, available at Marks & SpencerSustainable SlidesIt's easy to forget that shopping sustainably includes what we wear on our feet. While it's simple enough to shop for eco-friendly swimwear, sustainable summer sandals (or shoes in general) can be tricky to find. Happily, a growing number of brands are bringing green sandals to the forefront this summer, with a variety of slides that are as easy on the planet as they are to style. Ganni Knotted Recycled-Satin Flatform Slides, $, available at Matches FashionSt. Agni White Arne Leather Sandals, $, available at BrownsFreedom Moses Bond Velvet Two-Strap Slides, $, available at Saks Fifth AvenueALOHAS Toe Ring Flop Black, $, available at alohasH&M Knot-Detail Sandals, $, available at H&MLike what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?9 Dress & Sandal Combinations To Try This Summer10 Comfy Sandals To Slide Into This Summer7 Socks & Sandals Pairings For Optimum Comfort
21 hours ago

The comfy M&S bra women are buying in every colour

Why absolutely everyone should pay to fly First Class at least once

A shower

Moisturising pyjamas

A private chauffeur

Yahoo News is better in the app

Bulgari wash bags

Sheepskin mattress

The onboard bar

Yahoo News is better in the app

Massage chairs

A whole apartment

Sheepskin-style blanket

Yahoo News is better in the app

The champagne

Proper glasses

Organic seaweed products

Yahoo News is better in the app

Liberty London bags

Latest stories

Race to the sun begins – with 30 flights to Portugal and three to Gibraltar

These Companies Are Now Offering Paid Leave After Pregnancy Loss

Keeping up with travel: a new daily podcast from Simon Calder

Tiger King's Joe Exotic reveals he’s battling prostate cancer in prison

Herd of life-size elephant sculptures displayed outside Buckingham Palace

This Is How Many Renters Are Planning To Leave The City Post-Lockdown

Netflix’s Bridgerton is set to release spin-off series focused on Queen Charlotte

Jesy Nelson is platinum blonde now and we're obsessed

Sarah Jessica Parker shares rare photo of her son ahead of his graduation

Prince Charles plans to give public greater access to royal palaces when he is King

Lily James serves up serious 90s vibes in Pam's iconic red swimsuit

The 13 Most Anticipated Netflix Summer Movies Of 2021

This Halston Finale Quote Captures Exactly What Make The Series So Frustrating

Meet The Cast Of Characters In Amazon’s The Underground Railroad

Your Horoscope This Week: May 16, 2021

The Cambridge children are missing great grandfather Prince Philip

How to spend the perfect Sunday in the 'real' Prague

7 ways the garden has evolved in the last four decades

Zara Makeup Is As Good As Luxury Brands. Here’s What It Looks Like On

5 Sandal Styles You’re About To See Everywhere This Summer