Suzanne Kalan is the epitome of a business trailblazer. Founding her eponymous brand in 1988, shortly after having a daughter, Kalan launched her first jewellery line from her dining room table, piecing together designs that moved away from the traditional. No stranger to breaking a glass ceiling or two, she recalls being in rooms with male jewellers, buyers and stockists who wouldn’t take her seriously, shrugging off her now-famous baguette diamond designs. These designs would eventually form the bestselling Fireworks collection that changed the game when it came to diamond jewellery.  W ..read more

It’s fair to say that it’s been difficult to plan a wedding over the past few years. With most venues forced to close owing to pandemic restrictions, the majority of couples due to get married in 2020 (and even 2021) chose to postpone their nuptials until something like normality returned. Those who did tie the knot, however, discovered that a smaller, more intimate affair could be just as joyful and romantic as the grand party they had been planning – and wedding experts predict the trend for more pared-back nuptials is here to stay. And, if you’re only planning to invite a few dozen guests ..read more

Technological progress has, in the grand, epoch-spanning scheme of things, raised living standards across the world in an astonishingly short space of time. In the span of 100 years, personal transport has gone from loud, unreliable motorised wagons to highly-efficient electric cars capable of travelling hundreds of miles on a single charge. In just 20 years, mobile phones have transformed from simple devices to handheld computers, complete with 4K video and AI capabilities. Improvements in medicine mean that we are living longer. Reliable supplies of water, food, electricity and, more recentl ..read more

There’s something a little bit special about London’s outdoor cinemas. Largely found on repurposed rooftops or above multi-storey car parks, these unusual spots almost always offer views dramatic enough to vie for attention with whatever’s on screen. Whether showing new releases or old favourites, there are few better ways to pass a sunny afternoon than basking in the rays while watching a favourite film. And, if it happens to rain? Well, there’s no greater British pastime than stubbornly persevering with an outdoor event under umbrellas and raincoats. Read on for our guide to the outdoor cine ..read more

While still largely considered an alternative choice, the short wedding dress has in fact been a staple of modern nuptials since the 1920s, with famous fans including Hollywood royalty Audrey Hepburn, Keira Knightley and Raquel Welch, and actual royalty Charlotte Chasiraghi, daughter of Princess Caroline of Hanover. Also, an increasingly popular choice for brides on the hunt for something more fun and freeing for their reception, whether you’re after a vintage-inspired tea-length gown or a flirty, fashion-forward mini, read on for the best short wedding dresses for 2024. Mid-length wedding dre ..read more

Running 26.2 miles is not light work – and the least us non-runners can do on Sunday 21 April is support those taking part in the London Marathon. The gruelling route, which will take thousands of racers from Greenwich to St James’s, twists and turns past some of the capital’s most famous landmarks, including Cutty Sark, the Tower of London and Buckingham Palace. Of course, we’re well aware that being a supportive spectator can be thirsty work, so we’ve also found the best pubs along the route for a pint or two…  The start: Blackheath Image: Shutterstock/Robin Pope Nearest tube: Greenwich ..read more

While interior trends come and go (pineapple lamp, anyone?) purchasing well, and layering slowly, will ensure you don’t go all in on one look – only for it to be outdated just a few weeks later. Because you can’t rehaul your living room in the same way you can your T-shirts, investing in timeless or iconic pieces – that you love regardless of trends – will never be a bad move. If your general palette is neutral – be it earthy tones or moody minerals – then a splash of colour or an eccentric conversation piece may be just the lift you need. From Dolce and Gabbana and Loewe, to Assouline and Swo ..read more

Steeped in history, the capital’s independent markets are one of its biggest attractions. They don’t only entice tourists from across the world to sample the city’s best craft, but also born-and-bred Londoners looking to invest in some vintage garms from Brick Lane, stock their kitchen cupboard with homemade produce from Borough Market, or deck out their home with antique furniture from Portobello Road. Elsewhere, the likes of Brixton Village and Greenwich Market have long catered for their surrounding communities, while newcomers include Seven Dials’ chic food hall and Maltby Street’s trendy ..read more

If you’re looking for a unique, fun thing to do in London, horse riding is a great option. If you’ve seen Bridgerton you’ll know that the capital actually holds a long-standing horse riding heritage with deep cultural significance, which, happily, means there are still lots of options for aspiring jockeys out there. From a casual canter to a one-on-one lesson, here’s our guide to the top equestrian schools and stables around London. Stag Lodge Stables, Richmond Park Image: Stag Lodge Stables With more than seven arenas and 70 horses, ranging from cute Shetland ponies to 16-hand hunters, all th ..read more

Whether you’re looking to get in some serious laps or are simply after somewhere pretty to sunbathe, London’s bevy of lidos and outdoor pools will be a godsend when the sun comes out. As with most of the capital’s beauty spots, you’ll have to get there early to secure a prime position, but, should you be successful, you’ll be rewarded with picturesque views, pristine (if arctic) waters and maybe even a poolside cocktail or two. Shoreditch House and White City House White City House What swimming pool round-up would be complete without the aqua-based offerings of the globally-renowned S ..read more