Home is where you hang your hat, or so the saying goes. Increasingly people are hanging their hats in rental properties rather than buying their own homes. As a result, landlords are looking to buy even more properties to let. According to a recent news report from Property Wire (here) a third of landlords are even planning to purchase more properties this year. The information revealed in a survey by buy-to-let lender CHL Mortgages is great news for those involved elsewhere in the industry including letting agents and landlord insurers, who may also be enjoying more business this year as a result.

Demand from young professionals – who in the past may have been looking to buy – has helped to boost landlord confidence, with only one in ten of those surveyed looking to sell property or leave the buy to let market.

Unfortunately for those looking to rent, the booming rental trend is contributing to rocketing rental prices.  The latest Findaproperty index put the average monthly rent at £868, which goes some way towards explaining why house sharing even later in life, or returning to live with the parents are also booming trends!

Whether the reality TV star is in fact the girlfriend of rapper Kanye West or not, Kim Kardashian is certainly a force to be reckoned with. With her own perfume, clothing and beauty ranges, Kim has become as known for her fashionista credentials as she is for her part in The Kardashians and her polished look is envied by woman the world over.

With her olive skin tone and womanly curves Kim is admired by men and held up as an icon for women with shapelier forms. Though she can often be seen in monochrome outfits when she’s playing the role of businesswoman, her skin tone and hair colour make her the perfect candidate for this season’s colour blocking trend. Lately, Kim seems to have been using her natural assets to her advantage and she’s been papped-a-plenty wearing bright and bold colours with a real summery feel. For feminine frocks that will enhance an hourglass shape like Kim’s this summer, see here.

More often than not, Kim will opt to wear a dress in one bright shade like this number she wore recently on the Today show. However, she’s not afraid to experiment and has also been spotted out and about in cut off coloured chinos teamed with plain tees and a blazer in contrasting shades.

Following her recent trip to Miami, The Only Way is Essex (TOWIE) star Lauren Goodger has launched into a mission to slim down.  After a series of unflattering holiday snaps appeared in the press, Lauren spoke to new! Magazine to speak about her plans to lose weight before her next upcoming holiday in Marbella.

Talking to the publication about the offending photos, she said: “You know I’m not over the moon about my weight but they were horrific. I was like, ‘Oh My God, I don’t want to see this, I look horrific. Do I lose weight so there can’t be any bad pics?’ I want to lose 2st now, I want to be a size 8-10.”

Mark Wright’s ex seems to have been true to her word and has been following the Cambridge Weight Plan, which is paid for low calorie plan that involves eating only soup and shakes initially to kickstart a state of ketosis. The diet is seen as quite extreme by many but Lauren has been candid about wanting a quick fix. Those who have a little extra time to play with might consider working on a weight management plan with the help of their chemist, or even joining a slimming club. Studies consistently report that those who seek support and assistance with weight loss tend to be more successful, though there may be some cost associated with joining some slimming clubs. A more cost effective option may be entering into a diet and exercise pact with friends or seeking the help of free online weight loss forums, just make sure you don’t take it too far. That goes for you too Ms Goodger!

Long before Katy Perry dyed her hair that interesting hue of blue, the shade of the sea was tipped as a hot colour for this season. What may come as a surprise is that rather than being one for the ladies, the blue trend for the summer season is situated firmly in the men’s camp.

The crystalline blue shades of the Mediterranean waters are at the centre of some of summer’s top looks. The most obvious of these is perhaps the nautical look that seems to return each and every summer. Breton stripes see their fair share of blue. Equally, stripes in red are complemented perfectly with blocks of dark navy blue. Try teaming blue tops and cardigans with a striped shirt or T-shirt and a pair of chinos.

The other look that is partially dominated by this shade is the preppy Ivy League inspired look that’s made its way over from the US. Apparently, those Ivy League college-types who row for fun like to remind themselves of their pastime by wearing polo shirts and sweaters in marine shades. This classic look is also marked by the inclusion of other primary colours including red. If it sounds a little too smart for you, rest assured there’s no prerequisite to adopt the wearing of chinos and loafers with your blue polo shirt, in fact, a good pair of dark denim jeans will adequately complete the look.

Tablet computers are sleek, stylish and portable. So, if you’re going to choose one to slip into your handbag, which of the market leading tablet PCs should you go for?

The answer of course largely depends on what you intend to use your tablet for. Some may choose a tablet instead of kindle or smartphone for reading on the move. Tablets are a good size for reading and editing text comfortably, which makes browsing everything from the Financial Times to the latest addition of Grazia a breeze compared to checking them out on your smartphone.  Watching films or TV shows on the move is another option presented by these super convenient gadgets as is playing with the wide range of apps out there. Of course, you may also want to use your tablet in order to do some work and though not as flexible as a laptop, an increasing amount of software is available allowing you to be productive on your tablet, too.

If you’re app mad, an Apple iPad is probably the tablet for you simply because of the sheer volume of apps available, though of course, as the consistent market leader – Apple still is way out on front when it comes to price, too. Due to the very strict format of iTunes, it could be said that it’s far easier to view content on the iPad’s rivals. As for those who simply want to browse the net? The Blackberry PlayBook due to its larger screen tends to display content smaller than on its rivals, but has a great touch screen. For a detailed breakdown of what wins in what sphere see: here.

First came Lily Allen and her prom dresses and trainer combos, next Jessie J came along and injected the world of pop fashion with her colourful classic trainers and a penchant for catsuits. Though skyscraper heels are typically considered part of the fashionista uniform, trainers have certainly been making their way to the forefront.

One of the reasons that ladies are slipping into these comfortable casuals is the exciting and eclectic mix of designs now being generated by big names. From tried-and-tested classics like these to the DIY option offered by some US sites.  One thing’s for sure, picking out the right pair of trainers can truly help you make a style statement. With the wide array of design options available from top brands, trainers perhaps more than any other type of shoe allow people to express their personality through their footwear choice.

Currently on the lust lst here at instylenews is a newly released pair of Nike Air Max One. The Black Leopard, as the name suggests, feature a black upper combined with leopard print fabric inserts and a tasty-looking raspberry inner.  They are that glorious mix of part rock chick, part chav that Jessie J would probably choose for a trip to the shops and we would quite like to wear for our walk to the local Waitrose. Take a peek here.

It’s been a tough old time recently for The Only Way is Essex (TOWIE) star Gemma Collins. First of all she was revealed as the secret ‘sexter’ of Ricky Rahment, then boyfriend Charlie King dumped her, in part because of said flirting, but also because they reportedly had no sexual chemistry (read here)

Though the two might not have had the sexual click that it takes to make it as a couple, we think Gemma oozes sex appeal! With her curves, fake eyelashes and long blonde hair she reminds us of actresses from the Hollywood glamour days, like Ava Garnter. In fact, when we saw her recent lingerie shoot, we couldn’t wait to try out the look for ourselves and we’ve been perusing plus size lingerie sites like this one to find items to model ever since!

Once we’ve done lingerie, we may even have a stab at recreating the artistic scene from Titanic, just like she did for boyfriend Charlie before they split (see here) It might not have worked for her and Charlie, but there’s definitely some potential for the activity to fill a steamy Saturday night in!

If you wear glasses and you’re seriously into your fashion, you’ll be familiar with the annual expense of buying shades that correct your vision. Every year, the sunshine brings with it a new array of designer sunglasses – and while they look great, the lenses can put a serious dent in your wallet! One possible alternative to this expense is to get laser eye surgery to correct your vision – as well as removing the need to wear specs day-to-day, you’ll be paying much less for your shades when the summer comes around.

The costs associated with laser eye treatment have fallen quite a bit in recent years as the technology has advanced, and providers like Ultralase offer the procedure on a payment plan if you can’t afford the fee up-front. Put simply, the treatment uses a laser to permanently changes the shape of the cornea and the lens, correcting the problem that causes some people to need contact lenses or glasses.

However, laser eye surgery can’t help everyone – people aged under 20 or who developed their eye problems in their 40s may not be able to benefit from the treatment. If you really want to save on your sunglasses, talk to an expert and find out!

There are all kinds of ways you can reduce the cost of a redecorating project, no matter which room in your home is having work done. For instance, you may not be an expert in DIY, but anyone can use a paint brush – and you’ll be surprised at how cheap a new coat of paint is and what a difference it makes to the room.

It’s also a great idea to check retailers like Topps Tiles and buy up items while they’re on sale. Getting a load of wall or floor tiles for cheap means you can completely change the look of your kitchen or bathroom for a fraction of the amount it would normally cost, and you could learn some valuable new DIY skills as you do it!

Finally, keep an eye out for damaged items of furniture that you could pick up for next to nothing at garage sales or in junk shops. Often, you can find cut-price sofas that need new coverings or worn tables and countertops that just sanding down and re-painting to look like new. Wall hangings, pictures and other ornaments can also be found at these places at low prices to give your home a unique look.

A new project designed to provide support and encouragement for people with hearing loss has been launched in Manchester by a national charity. Action on Hearing Loss is running the Hear to Help programme in partnership with Manchester Royal Infirmary, which will help to train volunteers to show other people how to get the best use out of their hearing aids, as well as carrying out basic maintenance and advising on the right equipment to use.

“Our committed team of volunteers is looking forward to running community drop-in sessions and making home visits to build the confidence of hearing aid users,” said Jackie Ballard, chief executive of Action on Hearing Loss. “It’s amazing to see the tremendous impact a hearing aid can have in transforming a person’s ability to hear and live a full and active life.” Martin O’Driscoll, head of audiology at Manchester Royal Infirmary, added that the project will also help to identify people that would benefit from a further appointment with audiology or social care.

Anybody who thinks they have hearing loss, or knows somebody who does, can find more information on how to identify the condition and what to do about it here: http://www.amplifon.co.uk/improve-your-hearing/the-sound-of-silence/.

While getting dog insurance from providers like http://www.petsathome.com/petinsurance/doginsurance may protect your pet against physical injury, there’s currently no policy that protects their everlasting souls – although this could be set to change after one strange case from New York. Dog owner Elena Zakharova is currently seeking damages from a pet shop in the Upper East Side because her Brussels Griffon puppy suffers from joint problems caused by birth defects.

Under state law, pets are considered property – but if Ms Zakharova can convince the courts that Umka is a “living soul”, the shop may be liable to pay out damages for vet bills. “Umka feels love and pain like any human being whose pain and suffering would be recognized in a court,” said Susan Chana Lask, Ms Zakharova’s lawyer.

According to Ms Lask, the goal of the legal action is to step up penalties against pet stores that procure animals from commercial “puppy mills”, where dogs are bred under conditions that can lead to genetic defects. “Umka suffers a disorder causing her pain, her legs hurt, she cries when she is in pain, she drags herself with her front paws, she cannot run like other puppies,” the lawsuit reads.

The festive season often comes complete with a number of social events, which in turn can lead to opportunities to mingle, or more , with the opposite sex. No matter what your age or personal situation, festivities mixed with alcohol can sometimes lead to individuals taking risks they usually wouldn’t. If you wake up with a hangover and are afraid you might not have been as careful as you could have been, you may seek the advice of an online doctor or information sites to access your risks.

If you think you have potentially been exposed to an STI or are at risk of pregnancy you should always seek medical advice. It can sometimes be difficult to gain immediate access to GUM clinics in your area and you may want to consider ordering a Chlamydia test online from suppliers such as Lloyds Pharmacy. This STI is often symptomless and can therefore be easily spread without knowledge, though it is treatable.

Of course, the best way to make sure you don’t pick up an unwanted present in any sexual encounters is to make sure you use protection – barrier protection such as condoms or diaphragms – and also pregnancy prevention such as the pill. If you are heading out to a party, no matter how unlikely it may seem that your night may end amorously, it’s always sensible to make sure you have these bases covered.

Perhaps the best thing about cashmere is that it is incredibly versatile and never goes out of fashion. If you buy genuine cashmere clothing and accessories from reputable retailers such as Pure Collection, your investment may end up lasting a great number of years, meaning you get great value for money.

Where money savings are a concern, it pays to buy cashmere garments in a classic design so they can be matched with as many of your outfits as possible; therefore you won’t have to spend more money on getting different scarves for different outfits.

The “cabaret” trend is perfect for Christmas and New Year parties, and gives you the opportunity to really glam it up. Why not team a luxurious black cashmere shawl with an eye-catching gold fringed dress to really get heads turning?

Alternatively, if you want a simple yet elegant party outfit you might want to take notes from the “gothic glam” trend. However, perfecting this look takes some careful consideration to prevent you from going overboard. Try working a simple yet sophisticated little black dress with a black cashmere cardigan for a practical yet bang-on-trend look.

During the winter months when it’s cold and dark outside and the urge to nest indoors sets in, it can be easy to gain weight. After all, who wants to go jogging in the sleet and snow? It’s at these times it can be easy to put on a few pounds or lose our fitness levels, so it’s important to be a little creative with your fitness regime to keep everything in check.

For those who aren’t natural gym bunnies there are still plenty of affordable choices when the winter chill sets in. Many councils offer courts or indoor pitches for hire on an hourly basis, giving you the opportunity to catch up with some friends over a game of football, netball, tennis or badminton. In terms of financial commitment, this is far more flexible than joining up to a gym and paying a monthly fee and it’s a great way to stay social during a period when the couch and TV can seem like an attractive ‘activity’. Depending on the sport you choose, you won’t need to invest too much extra cash in equipment either. You can pick up a good set of trainers online at JD Sports (For Example: www.jdsports.co.uk/product/nike-air-max-90/51898
) and you may even be able to hire rackets at the venue.

Another advantage of playing team sports is that the responsibility of making it a social event can motivate you to take part. It’s far harder to excuse yourself from exercising when you have others relying on you and that can make getting fit and staying that way a little bit easier.

Office suits have traditionally got a name for themselves as being drab, but with the wide range of modern, bang-on-trend suits out there this has most definitely changed. Men look their best in a sophisticated suit, so why not bring this sophistication – and confidence that comes with it – into the workplace and start the New Year with an attitude to make you stand out from the crowd.

Office suits are available in a variety of designs and sizes to suit the tastes and figures of any man. For example, tall and bigger-built men might find their perfect suit at HighandMighty.co.uk. When choosing your suit you should ensure that it fits properly and when choosing the clothing and accessories to go with it to experiment a little. A popular trend this season is to combine bold, jewel coloured shirts, ties and socks with a classic and stylish office suit for a modern office look to get heads turning.

Before selecting your suit, however, you should compare product features and prices to ensure that you come out with an outfit that you can wear for years and years down the line without going out of fashion, so you can get more for your money.

Whether you’re picking up your first caravan or replacing your current one, you can save quite a bit of cash by buying used. Although you may be missing out on some of the benefits of buying a new caravan, such as extended warranties, this is offset by the savings you make – as long as you follow a few guidelines. It may also help to keep up with the latest goings-on in the caravan world at news sites like this one: http://www.simplecaravaninsurance.co.uk/caravan-insurance-news.aspx.

When you go along for a look, see if it already comes equipped with some accessories you would otherwise have to buy separately. These could include battery chargers, gas bottles, TV equipment and electric hook-ups – just ask the owner if you’re not sure what to look for.

It’s also a good idea to carry out a history check on the caravan you have your eye on as a matter of course, as this will avoid running into nasty surprises later down the line. The seller should be able to offer a thorough service history and provide details on how often it’s been used in the past. If it’s a newer van, you can run a HPI check to confirm the identity and ensure it doesn’t have any outstanding finance on it.

Ink can be one of the biggest expenses of running a printer, but there are a few ways users can save themselves some cash by printing smarter. As well as checking out the deals available on sites like Misco to see if you can buy printer ink for less, you can check your settings to see if you’re making the best use of the ink you have.

For instance, many people are unaware that the amount of ink their printer uses depends on the quality of the print, and unless you’re planning to hand the documents in as a presentation, it’s unlikely you need to choose the highest quality every time. Selecting “Draft” from the print options menu will give you a printout that’s perfectly fine for home printing and drains your ink cartridges at a much slower rate.

You may also be using coloured ink when black and white will do. If you’re printing out a webpage, for instance, you probably only want the text – so make sure you’ve chosen to print in black and white to avoid wasting the more expensive coloured cartridges. You can also save on paper by printing on both sides of the page.

After the surprising autumn heatwave that now seems like more a distant memory than anything else, it’s now time to look forward to the Christmas fashions and wrap up warm with season-specific threads. Marisota carried out its Facebook survey of ladies to find out what they loved the most about fashions of the winter, discovering that wrapping up in cosy scarf was the best winter warmer with 62 per cent of the vote.

The company’s Sequin Scarf is an ever-popular choice among fans of the brand. As “a scarf with a difference”, it can “bring a touch of sparkle to any outfit”. It’s recommended that people wear it around their jacket or simply drape it over a top with a level of elegance.

Meanwhile, the Angel Ribbons Long Boyfriend Cardigan may be a winter warmer that you love to wear. Designed to be casual, Marisota sees it as “fabulously on-trend and very convenient”, especially when you throw it on over a pair of women’s jeans and a T-shirt.

Finally, why not consider the Cap Sleeve and Faux Fur Collar Cardigan? This is perfect for giving your summer tops a winter makeover; the simple-yet-sophisticated cardigan brings glamour to any casual or warm outfit.

Around 90 per cent of households in the UK will ration their energy use to make money savings on their utility bills over the winter months, according to new figures.

In a report by uSwitch.com it was revealed that Brits could now expect to pay an average increase of £101 for gas and £21 for electricity, and 87 per cent of them have admitted to being worried about the cost of their energy bills given the predicted extreme cold over the coming months.

The double price increase carried out by the big six this year alone, has forced some households to reevaluate their outgoings and seek savings in other areas also, such as home insurance quotes. Indeed, in the past 12 months, bills have registered a significant 21 per cent increase – an average of £224.

Ann Robinson, director of consumer policy at uSwitch.com, said of the figures: With the cold nights starting to set in, I would urge consumers to act now to reduce their bills. We must all start thinking about and managing our energy usage and there are two key steps to this – use less energy by making your home more energy efficient and pay less for the energy you do use.”

While many people like the idea of fitting their home with natural wood flooring from Topps Tiles – particularly as it is a product that has proven very popular among UK homeowners – others are steadily and increasingly choosing laminate flooring products. Providing people with the natural beauty of real wood but with other additional benefits, it’s hardly surprising.

While customers get the look of natural wood, laminate flooring products also cost a lot let than their more authentic counterparts.  Given lowered budgets in recent years, laminate flooring is becoming the go-to choice for customers who desire the natural beauty of solid wood flooring without worrying about its drawbacks. The main advantage is that it is not susceptible to shrinking or growing with atmospheric changes. However, it is also remarkably easy to install – in fact, many people who want a fun DIY job may be able to do it themselves within just one day.

Laminate flooring continues to be a popular choice for decorating a kitchen, while living room areas can comply with laminates available in a wide range of colours. People can buy anything from cherry to oak-coloured flooring, and for a fraction of the cost of the real deal.

People operating vans across the UK are nonplussed by the amount they have to pay for their insurance policies, according to new research carried out this October. It is forcing many to find alternative providers of the service, such as Autonet, though it has been underlined that they can lower premiums in a variety of ways with whoever they use to attain cover.

Swinton stepped in to offer a raft of valuable advice that could reduce van insurance premiums after its survey discovered that 47 per cent of drivers think premiums are simply too high.

The organisation recommended that people drive the smallest van possible for the job, as smaller vans carry better premiums and give additional savings through the efficient use of fuel. The adoption of additional security measures such as immobilisers, alarms and steering locks also make it a much better option to insure for a wide range of companies.

If you increase your voluntary excess, you do risk the chance of paying out additional costs in the event of a claim, yet safer drivers will reduce premiums in the long term.

Phil Moss, commercial vehicle manager at Swinton, said: “We are all feeling the pinch but van drivers have probably seen the running costs of their vehicle increase the most as fuel prices continue to rise and they spend more time on the road than other motorists.”

The number of people buying used cars is booming in the UK, as many cash-strapped individuals are increasingly turning to dependable sales companies such as Evans Halshaw and looking past the need to invest in a brand new set of wheels.

Such are the findings from report authors at British Car Auctions, who found that the rising demand for cheap motors, when combined with the slump in new car sales, is resulting in a shortage of good-condition older cars in the market; many people are turning to reputable dealers as a result.

In 2010 alone, 6.6 million used cars were sold – a rise of 270,000 on 2009 figures. On top of this, the average price dropped from £5,422 to £5,332. The average mileage on used cars hit an all-time high of 59,000, as many people invested in six to eight-year-old cars in order to seal more dependable offerings despite the distance they had driven.

Dealers now expect to sell fewer than two million new cars during the year, while buyers are still dealing with the pressures of rising bills and worries over their job security.

BCA went on to estimate that there will be two million fewer used cars on the market by this time next year.

If you are sick and tired of having to rely on glasses and contact lenses, there’s one way that you can enjoy your independence. With help from http://www.ultralase.com/ and other providers, you too can cast away the shackles of poor eyesight and use your eyes in the way they were intended to be employed.

The Cork Independent reported on the fantastic ways that laser eye surgery can provide people with a new lease of life and a new-found confidence, where long-time sufferers of long and short-sightedness are able to wake up each and every morning and look for exactly what they need without ever having to stumble around to find aids for seeing.

Dr Crewe Brown, an expert in laser eye surgery, said it’s really quite simple that people want this kind of intervention after years of poor eyesight, explaining that one of the most commonly-cited reasons for the treatment is “to be free of the many, daily hassles of wearing glasses or lenses”.

The doctor added: “It really is wonderfully rewarding to see our patients leave with a new found zest for life and new found confidence, better able to enjoy life.”

Skirts have withstood the test of time and are a big favourite amongst women across the world. They take a number of fashionable forms, they are incredibly versatile, and they exude femininity. Another feature of the skirt is that it is continuously evolving; indeed, this season’s take on skirt has shifted from mini, to maxi, and now midi.

What’s more is that this bang-on-trend look can be found at a number of online retailers, such as http://www.simplybe.com/icat/skirts and purchased on the cheap. For example, if you are looking to invest in a new wardrobe or replenish your existing one, you can browse at the product features and prices of midi dresses online – at your leisure and from the comfort of your own home.

Indeed, the skirt design which took this season’s catwalks by storm illustrated a shift away from the ordinary extremes towards elegant mid-calf lengths that flatter almost any figure, including curvy and hour glass shapes. This 50’s and 70’s vintage-inspired look takes a number of forms – think pencil, paper bag belted waist, knotted and flared skirts. Finally, team with sheer and sleek blouses and sophisticated jewellery to finish off the look.

The tightening purse-strings of people around the country have been particularly telling in recent months and years, forcing many to consider getting a helpful loan from the likes of Money, Debt and Credit. But what should you do when selecting the best one for you? Here are a few pointers to follow.

First of all, avoid unsecured loans. These have much higher interest rates than secured loans and because of the high risk involved with them, banks offer less-than-favourable rates to cover chances of the loan defaulting.

Obviously, when you apply for a loan, you must be as honest as possible. You have to be fair and open about the reasons you need access to a loan, and some banks and lenders will openly give you a better rate or deal depending on the type of expense you are planning on using the money for.

Before you look for a loan, be sure that you need one in the first place and check all other options. If you have property, consider taking out a home equity loan. These options are usually better given the more favourable interest rates. Consider if family and friends can help you out, too; if it is only a small amount of money that you require, then play it safe with no interest at all!

If you need more help, consider visiting Directgov for government-led impartial advice.

Many people may overlook the ways that they can save money if they own a bird. With purse strings tightening, it makes a big difference if you even save just two or three pounds; simply buying food in bulk from Pets at Home is a great place to start, yet more can be done! Follow these simple tips and you too can save plenty of cash without lowering your feathered friend’s quality of life.

Why not make your own toys? You don’t exactly have to be an expert craftsman to make things they’ll enjoy. In fact, so many people are getting on to this great money-saving approach that there are now a wide range of online classes and websites dedicated to making toys for birds.

Make your own food for your bird, too. You don’t have to be a Michelin-starred chef to create pet bird food and treats. Again, there are a remarkable number of sites on the internet to get recipe ideas, such as About.com.

Finally, don’t get sucked in by sales gimmicks. While plenty of companies will sell perfectly viable things like bird cage liner or paper, regular recycled newspaper works just as well and costs you nothing extra. Even if you don’t receive a daily paper, you can always get hold of a free one from newsstands or people operating in town centres.

Cosmetic surgery among older generations is often associated with the turning back of time to a more youthful-looking appearance, through procedures such as face-lifts. However, recent trends reveal a surge in this demographic opting for affordable procedures that aren’t as common for older individuals, such as Breast Uplift at MYA.

Women who opt for breast lift surgery can benefit from improved levels of self-esteem, as well as a number of long-term money-saving benefits after the initial investment. For example, older women who struggle to find underwear and clothing that fits their drooping breasts effectively – and so have to turn to clothing specialists, which tend to be more expensive – may find that post surgery, this is no longer a problem.

In a recent abc News report (August 10th), 83-year-old Marie Kolstad talks about her experience of breast augmentation surgery.  The property manager from California explains how the three-hour breast implant procedure, carried out in July, gave her life a much-needed boost.

The widower said: “I never gave a thought to meeting someone different. It was more about looking in the mirror and liking who I am.

“It’s something you dream about. I just wanted nice ones. I didn’t want anything outlandish or out of place. Now, they are firmer and rounder.”

For most university students, learning how to live on a tight budget is an integral part of the student experience, especially for those studying at a university in London – such as Middlesex University. Moreover, in light of the recent increase in university tuition fees, this has never been truer. Indeed, some reports have drawn attention to the fact that these high fees could force some prospective university students to say goodbye to their dream of attending university, due to financial constraints.

However, with some simple money-saving tricks, you can improve your financial situation and reduce the risk of money (or lack thereof) getting in the way of getting the most out of your university experience.

For example, a number of students get a part-time job during their time at university. However, it is important to remember that you don’t work too much, and that you leave yourself enough time for studying.

It helps to make a list of your income and outgoings – such as rent, bills, and food – before you allocate your free ‘spending money’ for the month. Always remember to put a little extra to one side for thing such as course books, printing, laundry bills and library fines. This will help you to identify where you are spending excessively, and therefore where you can cut back on.

It’s pretty hard to define the smart/casual look given that it has undergone a remarkable number of adjustments as time has gone on. Men often disregard the look too, given that many are unable to find the balance between one and the other. Luckily, with these tips, you’ll be able to buy some new threads from http://www.highandmighty.co.uk and get exactly what you’re looking for!

Firstly, there’s the blazer. If you’ve looked at any men’s magazine this year, you’ll have spotted the popular accessory that works wonders for anyone trying to strike the best line between the two directions. While layering this offering with lightweight clothing may not be the best way to add warmth, it is definitely able to deliver originality and style to your look. Popular colours for a blazer include stone, navy, grey and other basic shades.

Tailored shorts are also continuing their rise in popularity. Even without the blazer, they can act as a smart and structured element to an outfit, especially when paired with brogues or loafers.

To add the casual element and balance the look, you should consider a T-shirt, though polo shirts can also add a preppy edge. Try not to clash colours, though playing with brighter colours and vivid patterns will certainly add a summer element.

If you’re looking for last year’s spin on smart/casual to compare this trend to the past, see the Daily Telegraph’s take on it here. After all, a lot of themes have carried over through the years!

Many people can be quite wasteful with their money when it comes to fashion, but most of us are victims of this trend. However, simply replacing well-worn items with like-for-like garments can be an avoided expenditure if you take care of your purchases a little better. Especially if it’s a more luxurious item like cashmere from Pure Collection, it stands to reason that more money can be saved in the long run.

Even if cashmere does not get dirty or smell of sweat easily, it needs to be washed after every three outings. Cashmere is delicate and washing it less often allows it to last longer. If machine washing, put cashmere in a pillowcase and use special wool washing products; choose a cold wool programme and don’t allow spinning at over 600 rpm. Dry it without twisting; roll it in a towel and dry it flat. Do not tumble dry!

Meanwhile, silk is very delicate and should be hand-washed unless the label says it can go in a machine. Hand-wash silk in lukewarm soapy water without soaking it and if necessary, add vinegar or sugar to cold water to rinse. Like cashmere, don’t twist it; in fact, shirts and blouses can be put on a hangar to dry.

For more wash and care tips for a variety of garments, visit So Feminine here .

As TV series go, Mad Men has made quite the impact, not only is Christina Hendricks the media elected pinup for curves, but the style and design trends featured in the show are influencing everything from fashion to interior design. With this in mind, the Best Bathrooms of this year will undoubtedly have on foot in the past, according to this article: http://shine.yahoo.com/channel/beauty/home-design-has-quot-mad-men-quot-saved-pink-bathroom-tiles-2445205

If you want to tap into the retro trend it’s very easy and you don’t need to develop a penchant for pink tiles unless of course you want to. Stick to classic colours such as black, white and grey.  Quirky features you can incorporate into your bathing space include panelling, free standing sinks, an old-style white medicine cabinet and of course a vanity table. For ladies hoping to recreate Ms Hendrick’s retro style a large vanity table mirror with gold frame is the perfect addition.

Of course if you are trying to recreate the look of days’ gone by lino flooring and plastic shower curtains are unlikely to be on your list. Instead opt for polished wooden floors with carefully placed mats and utilise panelling or glass in your shower to create a more authentic look.

There are plenty of ways that you can live in a frugal and money-conscious way without depriving yourself of the little pleasures in life – even big spending trips can be created if you have the right attitude and save money in the correct way. Here are a three great ways to get you started and put you on track to get the money you need for what you want.

Firstly, visit a comparison site such as Cheap.co.uk to have a look at the best offers you can get for electricity, gas, house insurance and phone bills. You could find yourself saving an extremely impressive amount of money in just a few clicks – great for people who need that extra £10 or £20 every month to realise their bigger dreams and desires.

Secondly, manage your money well. Take on board tips from http://www.frugal.org.uk and, most importantly, consider recording everything you buy. Whether it’s a penny chew or a full weekly shop, be sure to put down everything you invest in and subtract it from your wage.

Finally, draft a 30-day “want list”. Think of anything you want but are unable to get for a month. If you still need it after that period of time, you will prove to yourself that you didn’t invest in it as a rash impulse purchase.

With this in mind, be comfortable getting what you want – just don’t break the bank doing it!

There has been a marked rise in sexually-transmitted infections (STIs) in Cumbria, according to the latest information garnered by the local NHS. The news comes with a warning that a lot of these spreadable diseases are hard to detect and can be easily avoided, though people must consider getting themselves a Lloydspharmacy chlamydia test or another examination should they have any worries.

Figures from the Department of Health revealed that STIs continue to be a major concern in the county and beyond. Last year alone, there were 2,345 cases of chlamydia per 100,000 members of the population between 15 and 24 across Cumbria. This is a marked rise from the previous year’s rate of 2,168 cases.

Meanwhile, genital warts and herpes continued to cause concern in major towns and cities in the area. Public health experts continue to remind people that contraceptives and condoms should be used at all times, especially when travelling abroad.

Associate director of public health for NHS Cumbria Jane Muller said: “Sexually transmitted infections are already common across the UK, but in some other countries abroad, infections can be widespread, so it’s important that people take the necessary precautions with them. This way, most people will be able to avoid coming back from holiday with more than a tan.”

To learn more about STIs, be sure to visit the NHS website here http://www.nhs.uk/Conditions/Sexually-transmitted-infections/Pages/Introduction.aspx and arm yourself with knowledge that could prevent you getting into a very uncomfortable situation in the future.

Creating a cost-effective marketing approach is at the top of the list of most small businesses, especially given the current economic climate that is pushing companies to curb their spending in this area. Raising the profile of your brand is essential for its survival and branded items, such as a promotional USB by Ideas by Net (http://www.ideasbynet.com/usb_products.html), can help you do this even on a budget. Ideas by Net offer a range of creative and inspirational tools for you to incorporate into your marketing strategy.

Thick and glossy sales brochures can be expensive to produce and distribute, particularly if they are sent out internationally. Promotional USB sticks, however, are cheap to produce and can save you money on mail shots. They also offer existing and potential customers a functional device they can use in the workplace or at home. For example, you could wow them with the world’s most compact USB flash drive at 500GB with your brand logo, website details and slogan featured on it http://flashchiptech.wordpress.com/2009/12/18/largest-usb-flash-drive-pendrive-stick-in-the-world-500gb-amazing-smallest-size-available/

Using promotional USBs in your marketing strategy is likely to generate a great deal more exposure compared to the more costly and less-functional printed prospectuses. For maximum impact, before distributing pre-load each USB stick with an “electronic” version of your brochure.

Experts across the country tried to raise awareness of eye health last month during National Eye Awareness week. Under the banner ‘Vision matters’ charities, organisations and health professionals promoted the importance of looking after eyes through healthy living, testing and awareness.

In research released to coincide with the campaign, The College of Optometrists revealed that the majority of the populations (86 per cent) values their sight more than any other sense, viewing sight tests as an important part of their health regime. However, in spite of this there remains a sizeable percentage of the population who are not taking precautions to maintain their eye health.

Perhaps most surprisingly, of the 4,004 adults between the ages of 18 and 60 surveyed, nearly one in five had not had a sight test, or had not seen an optometrist in the past five years. With the majority of adults waiting for symptoms to push them into taking an eye test, campaigners involved in National Eye Awareness Week aimed to strongly push the preventative message. They also raised awareness of the treatments available to those with eye problems such as wearing spectacles or contact lenses. Although these are not always the only options available to eye problem sufferers thanks to laser eye surgery procedures available from the like of Ultralase.

Dr Cindy Tromans, president of The College of Optometrists said: “Patients are at the heart of our work and we commissioned this research because, as a public benefit body, it is important for us to have a strong understanding of their awareness of the importance of sight tests and eye health. We hope this study will help healthcare professionals to develop a better understanding of patient attitudes towards their vision and eye health; the role of the optometrist and the barriers to seeking eye care that may exist for patients, in order to help us deliver the best possible eye care provision to the UK public.”

Many people will happily hire an expert to lay tiles for them, yet a lot of money can be saved if you do it yourself. After all, with these great tips, plus a little bit of confidence, and you’ll be able to lay tiles like a true pro.

Firstly, you need to figure out the best kitchen tiles for you. If you speak to an expert kitchen tile provider, such as http://www.tiledepot.co.uk, you can see a range of tile samples on a pre-prepared kitchen wall to see which suits your desires the most. Once you know whether you’re going with porcelain, ceramic, slate or other materials for your tiles, you choose their size and how many you’ll need for your project. In this situation, it is always best to round up by one or two metres to be safe, allow for a few tiles to break.

In terms of kitchen tiling tools, you will need to prioritise buying tile adhesive, tile spacers, tile grout, tile edging strips, adhesive spatula, a tiling chisel, putty spatula and – perhaps most importantly – a spirit level.

When you prepare the area – particularly if you’re not laying on top of existing tiles – you should clean the tiling area first, going so far as to remove any dust or dirt that has built up. On top of this, it is a good idea to fill in any holes or gouges there may be in the wall.

One thing you must remember is that it is almost impossible to cut a tile smaller than 1cm across; check how many kitchen tiles will fit your tiling area as you cannot allow for a gap like this towards the end of the wall. So long as you measure everything correctly, you can adjust your starting point for tiling – be sure to remember space for grouting, though. Find out more about preparing the area here: http://www.homeserve.com/videos/build-renovate/how-to-prepare-for-tiling

From here, get your adhesive and spatula and lay tile adhesive. The best way to apply kitchen tiles is to apply adhesive to each tile and stick them into place; evenly spread it around 0.5cm thick across the whole tile. Apply tile spacers in the corners as you tile in these directions to allow for a tidy grout, which is easily scraped in as the tiles set.

Naturally, you’ll want to consult an expert first – get yourself down to the Tile Depot and find out there!

A number of British holidaymakers venture further afield for their beach holidays and many forget that the UK boasts extensive awe-inspiring coastline and some beautiful beaches. However, more and more Brits are seeking out some hidden jewels on our own doorstep and choosing to take cottage holidays in the UK. Cottage holiday providers, such as Easy Cottages, give you the option of self-catering holidays where you can benefit from the comfort of your own cottage and a range of things to see and do on your doorstep, including some fantastic beaches to explore. Here are our three top rated beaches in England:

St Ives, Cornwall

St Ives and Newquay in Cornwall have been rated the best two beach resorts in Britain by online reviewers of travel review site TripAdvisor. Meanwhile, St Ives was ranked as the sixth best European beach destination. Due to its position on its own peninsula, it hosts three golden sandy beaches within a few hundred yards of each other. Porthmeor beach is particularly popular and is situated on the north coast of the town. It is widely regarded as offering the best surfing conditions in St Ives.

Cromer, Norfolk

The Norfolk coastline is breathtaking and boasts miles of unspoilt coast. Cromer is a classic North Norfolk seaside town with quaint architecture and a wide blue flag beach, with nearby sand dunes and marshland just waiting to be explored. A gentle wind makes the area the perfect spot for water-sport enthusiasts and adventurers – such as wind surfing and sailing.

Swanage, Dorset

Swanage is a charming little town that lies secluded in a scenic cove in Dorset and unlike most other areas of the English Channel its beach is sheltered from the wind, meaning it is much calmer. The sandy blue flag beach is perfect for sunbathing or watersport activities.

Short-term insurance is a great arrangement over a limited period of time and will allow you to borrow a friend’s transport, or provide your own to another person. This temporary van cover makes borrowing a vehicle very easy indeed, meaning you don’t have to bother with amendments to an existing policy. This is very useful for people looking to move house without employing a firm, or carrying out the odd job or two.

While trust needs to be established to make this short-term agreement, there are a vast number of organisations, such as http://www.autonetinsurance.co.uk, that will provide this van insurance. This internet search will present you with dozens of different options that offer short term van insurance and you will be able to pick a deal that suits you. Applying online makes finding the best deal even quicker – often an essential issue if you need a short-term arrangement sorted quickly.

Short term insurance policies tend to be arranged over a period between one and 28 days, though other providers may extend this to 84 days. They can also be arranged over a variety of different periods of time for a variety of different vehicles. Given the desire for this short-term solution, large goods-carrying vehicles tend to be the most popular ones that utilise this policy and are often used by professional haulage companies who need to get a vehicle insured temporarily. People using this type of cover generally use it to remove waste, collect furniture when moving house or from a store, or even for a booze cruise to France.

Whatever you do, be sure that you declare everything, otherwise your policy could be voided. Even if the short-term premium is a little more expensive, the flexibility and ease of use of a short-term van insurance policy could be perfect for you. Let Money Saving Expert help with more advice if you need it, at http://www.moneysavingexpert.com/insurance/cheap-van-insurance.

Brits might be planning to work longer than ever due to decreasing pension packages but younger Brits would prefer them to take an earlier exit from the workplace, according to a new study.

Research conducted by home and care provider Anchor has revealed some surprisingly ageist attitudes taking hold in the workplace, with two fifths of 18-24-year-olds claiming there are simply not enough jobs for the older generation to be hogging positions and that older people should retire to make way for younger workers.

With default retirement age of 65 ending this year, many pensioners are planning to stay in their careers far longer than the previous generation. Indeed many older Brits are unable to retire when they had hoped due to poor finances. According to some of the younger generation however, the benefits of older workers in the jobs market are limited, with one fifth of young Brits believing the over 60s are slower and less productive than their younger counterparts. One in 20 even went as far as to say that older workers should be paid less than workers who are younger than them because they work at a slower pace.

Jane Ashcroft, chief executive of Anchor, said: “Casual ageism has no place in society and these results bear no reality to the lives of the over 60s in England today who are active, energetic and contribute hugely to many of the most successful businesses and organisations in the country. The dismissive attitudes highlighted by Anchor’s research towards the over 60s are a sad indictment of attitudes in England.”

The popularity of online shopping is continuing to rise with one in four ‘shopping trips’ now taking place online according to new research.

A study carried out by the Pay Your Way Campaign found that the typical British shopper makes 22 online shopping trips each year. The group estimates that these shoppers would need to travel a total of 6,111 miles in round trips to the nearest retail distribution centres in order to pay for these items in person. Each consumer’s average individual shopping trips includes three annual check-outs at an online food store, and seven online purchases of books and music.

More than one in three (32 per cent) consumers say they would prefer to buy goods online rather than in store if given the choice highlighting how routine online shopping has now become. Britain’s twenty-somethings are the biggest fans of cybershopping where 45 per cent preferring purchasing online than hitting the high street. The over-70s were the least enthused about online shopping with a mere 20 per cent of those surveyed claiming it was their shopping method of choice.

Sandra Quinn from the Pay Your Way campaign comments: “Already, one in three Brits say they prefer to shop online rather than in person, reflecting increasing confidence in remote payments, as well as the time pressures many people face today. Where people understand and have confidence in newer payment options, by and large they’re quick to pick up and exploit their benefits.”

The average Brit would not begin to become concerned about their financial situation until they had racked up nearly £10,000 in debt a new survey suggests.

A poll of 2,004 people carried out by Opinion Matters on behalf of moneysupermarket.com reveals that the average adult in the UK has racked up more than £8,400 of unsecured debt spread across credit cards, loans and overdrafts.

Despite this most people said they would not start worrying about the size of their debt until it reached £9,800 – just short of 10k. Perhaps most shockingly the majority of those surveyed said they would wait until this figure doubled to £19,478 before seeking out paid advice to help them stabilise their situation.

The survey also revealed financial discrepancies between the genders, with men owing significantly more than women – an average of £9,403 compared to a figure of £7,593 for the apparently thriftier fairer sex. Men are also revealed to be more optimistic about their financial situation, saying they would not worry until they had clocked up debts of over £12,000, with women becoming concerned far earlier around the £7,500 mark.

Despite all of these figures revealing some very worrying borrowing tendencies, almost half of those surveyed said they would never pay for debt advice.

Tim Moss, head of loans and debt at moneysupermarket.com, said: “’Recent changes in taxation limits, removal of certain benefits and the soaring cost of living has seen many people’s personal finances squeezed more than ever, and many people will be worrying about their financial situation.

“Making ends meet is hard enough without juggling debt repayments on top. However, there is no need to suffer in silence and there are many options to take steps in reducing personal debt, before it escalates out of control.”

The introduction of the Sunbeds (Regulation) Act 2010 is a huge step forward in protecting young people in the UK, according to the Chartered Institute of Environmental Health (CIEH). The Act must be enforced by local councils and requires that sunbed businesses ensure nobody under the age of 18 uses a sunbed on their premises. If they are unsuccessful, organisations can be fined up to £20,000.

Andrew Griffiths, the policy officer of the CIEH, was clear in his views on the issue. He said that the organisation is “extremely pleased” to see the Act being introduced and would provide “valuable protection” to young people who are vulnerable to skin cancer. He noted that the use of a sunbed once a month or can increase the risk of the disease by over half.

Mr Griffiths asserted: “We are now urging the government to follow the example set by Welsh Assembly Government by implementing the powers given to it under the Act to introduce subsidiary regulations increasing the protection given to sunbed users. These powers include further restricting the sale, hire or provision of sunbeds, in particular by prohibiting unsupervised tanning salons and requiring sunbed businesses to provide health information and protective eyewear to their customers.”

It follows research carried out by the CIEH in Wales back in 2008. It was found that over half of tanning salons – both supervised and unsupervised – would allow children under 16 to use a sunbed. Additionally, 88 per cent of premises let customers have a tanning session every day, should they want to.

Source:

http://www.cieh.org/media/media3.aspx?id=36152

The Institute for Fiscal Studies (IFS) has never really been one to deliver much in the way of good news on the economy in the past two or three years, though it’s hardly their fault; with a tough time behind us following the recession, it seems like this slow economic trend is set to continue. At least, that’s how it seems – the IFS revealed today that household income is now at its lowest level in 30 years.

According to the latest report from the organisation, it was discovered that households have suffered one of the biggest drops in income over a 12-month period since 1981. The independent think tank went on to claim that this shift in pay is ultimately down to stagnating wage increases in relation to high inflation. A typical family living in the UK has therefore lost in excess of £500 during the year, affecting property and other core markets needed for a wholesale financial recovery.

The IFS worked out that the most part of the decline was caused by a sharp fall in earnings before pensions, tax credits and benefits were factored in. Net loss for typical households now stands at around three per cent over this 12-month period, essentially meaning the income is comparable to what was found in 2005. While official statistics on incomes will not be published for the last financial year until next May, the IFS staunchly believes this trend is possible.

Sources:

http://www.thisismoney.co.uk/news/article.html?in_article_id=533395&in_page_id=2

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/finance/personalfinance/8511223/Families-have-lost-500-in-12-months-says-think-tank.html

This summer, work will start on the construction of a cable car to go across the River Thames. Following the appointment of Mace as the lead contractor, Transport for London believes that this “new iconic link” will help improve regeneration of the newly-created Enterprise Zone in the capital.

The Mayor of London himself, Boris Johnson, confirmed that work is to start this summer. Mace already has a great track record in London, creating innovative ideas like the London Eye and the Shard Tower, which is currently being built. Additionally, it is part of the consortium that is delivering the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Stadium.

It is hoped that it will be a low-emission, direct and quickly-accessible link from the Greenwich Peninsula and O2 to the Royal Victoria Docks and ExCeL, while also giving a highly-needed river crossing in this area. It will also provide a much-needed boost to the economic regeneration of east London.

Boris Johnson, the Mayor of London, said: “Gliding serenely through the air across the Thames will provide a truly sublime, bird’s eye view of our wonderful city. This innovative airborne travel link will be a vital component in the on-going renaissance of a vibrant easterly quarter of the capital, providing a much-needed river crossing. I am thrilled we are full steam ahead to start work on this project following the confirmation of a world-class consortium to deliver this brand new icon.”

A Middlesex University fashion graduate has set up a study-led blog in response to her experience of chemotherapy, following a diagnosis of cancer just days before finishing her degree.

Maya Lund, 25, was told she had Hodgkin’s Lymphoma five days before handing in her final BA Fashion project last summer. Losing her hair to the invasive treatment, the student showed strength and creativity by posting pictures of herself on her Belle of the Bald blog, modelling self-made designs and adornments on her head.

“Even though I knew it was coming, the hair loss was a real shock,” Maya explained. “I had the idea of a blog because I thought people would find it difficult to talk to me about my cancer – I’m a visual person, so it was natural for me to use pictures to show people my experience.  I didn’t want to do anything too depressing, but something positive.”

Her blog was an alternative approach to the many examples she found of people talking about experiences of cancer and treatment; following chemotherapy treatment, she found herself too tired to think about updating a text-heavy blog.

Maya’s reaction to being stared at in the street was turned into a strong statement when she stuck dozens of eyes to her head. She explained: “I don’t really mind the staring when I’m ready for it but on the odd occasion I do forget for a slight second what I’m going through, what I look like, and that’s the moment I find everything comes crashing back down to reality.”

She has had plenty of support during the time to get her through tough spells. She explained: “My friends were amazing during this time often phoning me in the morning making sure I was up and getting ready. This was a lifesaver as it was difficult for me to get up in the mornings because I was so tired all the time.”

Maya now wants to raise awareness for Teenage Cancer Trust, adding that the website was a “big help”. With the charity building 17 specialist units in NHS hospitals across the UK with views to build a further 16, Maya believes she can help assist them with her most recent spate of creativity, boosting the chances of other people getting through chemotherapy and back on the road to recovery.

Want to make a mark on your new living room design with as little fuss as possible? Well, it’s probably best you don’t buy paint just yet; after all, it’s been called “one of the biggest mistakes homeowners make when they begin a decorating project”.

Laura Stein, an expert in home design with yourhome.ca, said that people should stop buying paint testers and instead look for fabrics for sofas, throw pillows and other soft furnishings. Given there are so many different shades of paint colour and with so many undertones, it could be much easier to match paint with fabric than anything else.

The specialist recommended that people find an accent fabric with inspiring colours, as this will be the anchor for a colour scheme. From here, people ought to find a fabric for the sofa that coordinates with the accent material, bringing other coordinating textiles into the mix.

Ms Stein then said that people should go back to paint by choosing a wall colour that compliments the sofa, then choosing an accent wall colour. She concluded: “One designer trick is to find the colour that appears the least in the fabric and use that as your accent colour. Tie the colour into the rest of the room with piping on your pillows, trim on your drapery and accessories throughout the space.”

Sources:

http://www.yourhome.ca/homes/decor/article/981377–design-dilemma-colour-quandary

Although some men do in fact like shopping for clothes, many still see it as a necessary evil. According to recent research by Kelkoo, women tend to view shopping as a social activity, whereas men view it as a mission. It comes as no surprise therefore that women tend to do 80 per cent of the household shopping.

If shopping for all things from food to clothing falls into your domain and you want to buy your partner something to wear which you will both like, try following these three top tips:

The first way to guarantee your man will wear what you buy him is to check what he actually needs. Have a quick look through his wardrobe and drawers to see if there is anything lacking in his wardrobe, bear in mind any events coming up which he may need a new outfit for such as a family wedding or birthday. Speak to him to sound out what he needs and which current fashions he likes and doesn’t like. Despite some men’s reluctance to shop for themselves they can often complain things which are bought for them are not to their taste. Try spending time online looking at styles together on fashion sites such as http://www.gq-magazine.co.uk/style so you have a better idea of what he likes.

Buying something classic like a blazer or jacket is likely to mean it will see more wear. Avoid too-trendy styles and look for a cut and colour which flatters. Be sure to get the right size by following retailer’s size guides as you don’t want the item to swamp or squeeze his silhouette. If your man has a larger frame, opt for single-breasted and single-vented jackets which will draw less attention to large points such as the chest and bottom. Find some great examples online at specialists like http://www.highandmighty.co.uk/.

Different people suit different colours and without trying things on these can be hard to match up. Follow some simple rules to avoid your choices looking garish. Those with fair skin and blond or red hair generally suit dark colours well such as navy or black and charcoal. These are also very slimming shades. If your man’s skin is sallow or pasty it’s best to avoid bright colours which will wash him out. Those with darker hair and skin tones benefit from having a larger range of colours to choose from as they will not be drained by dark or bright shades.

We all know that exercising is good for us, it helps keep our muscles and joints flexible and helps us maintain a balanced weight – and the same is true for pets. Doing exercise together not only helps you to bond, but also keeps you slim and trim and them away from the vets.

Before you pop your porky pooch or chubby cat on an extreme diet, you may want to take it to the vets to get a quick once over. If you or your pet are not used to doing a lot of physical activity you will want to build up the intensity and time spent exercising rather than throwing yourselves in at the deep end.

It is perhaps easiest to come up with ways to exercise with a dog, the most obvious of course being to head out on a nice walk. If you are limited by the weather head out for a shorter walk then try to brave a play session in the garden or inside (and away from breakables). Throw and fetch toys will get you both moving; look out for rope chews, rubber bones and balls or doggy discs for throwing. There are plenty on the market to choose from, with huge ranges in specialist pet stores such as http://www.petsathome.com/ and remember – a rubber toy will bounce and have your doggy running further for longer.

Exercising with your cat will require a little more imagination. Although you can buy cat leashes to walk your kitty around the garden with, you will find it much easier to engage your cat in exercise which involves their usual play tendencies. Observe your pet to see if they prefer to chase, pounce or climb and then join in the fun. You can pick up a number of cat toys which will encourage chasing and catching, including fishing rod type toys and kitty balls which you can bowl for them. For cats who like climbing and scratching you may want to invest in a scratching tree – although this won’t provide you with any exercise benefits personally you may find it saves your curtains coming under attack!

Travel insurance is a holiday essential which you should build into the price of your holiday. According to the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) the basics your policy should cover are medical and health cover for an injury or sudden illness abroad,

24 hour emergency service and assistance, personal liability cover, lost and stolen possessions cover and cancellation and curtailment cover.

However, if you are taking part in potentially dangerous activities on holiday such as skiing, jet skiing or parasailing you are likely to need extra cover as these are most often excluded from standard policies. When selecting your policy – head online to see what is on offer from specialists such as http://www.staveleyhead.co.uk/ and take the time to call them to discuss any specific extras you require. It is of course possible to find yourself in the midst of a dangerous situation which you hadn’t scheduled as part of your holiday and how you are covered in these situations is slightly more complicated.

The civil unrest in Egypt has raised issues with what your travel insurance should cover, with many holidaymakers unsure if their policies would cover them should they travel, or alternatively provide a refund should they choose not to. The official standard is that if the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) has advised against travel, your travel insurance policy will no longer provide cover if you travel against their advice.  You can check up to date advice from the FCO here.

http://www.fco.gov.uk/en/travel-and-living-abroad/travel-advice-by-country/ In the midst of the troubles the FCO advised against “non-essential” travel to the capital Cairo, Alexandria, Luxor and Suez unless absolutely necessary. However there is no clear definition between essential and non-essential travel which leaves the individual to determine whether the journey is necessary. Similarly, if you decide to cancel travel because you are worried about travelling to a certain destination but it has been deemed safe by the FCO then you will not be covered by to travel insurance policy.

The best strategy should you be uncertain of your cover, is to approach your travel insurer with your questions directly – and where possible ask for a written response to your query or make a note of who you have spoken to. Should the situation change at all do not hesitate to contact them again for an update. Although they may be busy, insurers should be happy to talk you through aspects of your policy. If you have trouble with your insurer, search out a company with better customer service skills.

Although breast operations for women are often talked about – both in terms of enlargement and reduction, breast reductions for men are perhaps less well known, despite this kind of surgery being on the increase. According to figures from the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (Baaps), there was a 28 per cent increase in gynaeocmastia last year – with 741 men undergoing reduction operations to imrove the appearance of unsightly breasts or ‘moobs’.

Larger men who are overweight can often find themselves the butt of jokes when lack of exercise or overeating results in their chest area becoming enlarged and saggy. However these are not the only causes of so-called moobs developing. Hormone imbalance, taking some medications and genetics can all play a part in excessive fat storage and development of breast tissue. Although exercise and diet can help to a degree, some men find that no amount of press ups help to ease the problem.

For men who are embarrassed to strip on holiday or in the bedroom as a result, this can be a psychologically distressing problem. It can also lead to excessive spending on clothes as they struggle to find items that conceal their shape. When diet and exercise fail to help cosmetic surgery is an option.

In a gynaeocmastia operation fat is removed by liposuction in the problem area. Under general or sometimes local anaesthetic fat is removed from under and around the breast by syringe or vacuum pump. Although this is not an operation to be taken lightly, it is possible to recover from such surgery in a relatively short time. Following reduction operations men are required to wear a support garment and are likely to need a few days off work, they are also advised to avoid any exercise for a few weeks.  If you would like to learn more about this type of surgery and how it is carried out, see: http://www.mya.co.uk/cosmeticsurgeryformen/gynaecomastia.php