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THE IDEAL GUIDE ON HOW TO CHOOSE THE BEST JEAN STYLE FOR SUMMER

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THE IDEAL GUIDE ON HOW TO CHOOSE THE BEST JEAN STYLE FOR SUMMER

Jeans are such a style staple that it seems redundant to advise on the latest season’s trends. If it’s denim, blue or black and fits nicely, then what more is there to discuss? This perennial trouser favourite is just that because of its simplicity, versatility and timeless quality, right? Well, there are still a few considerations to take into account if you want to wear them right; ones of shape, wash and brand. Worried that it’s all just got a little complicated? Well, fear not; here is the IDEAL guide on how to choose the best jeans this summer.

WHAT SHAPE IS FOR YOU?

Of course, jeans, just like women, come in all shapes and sizes, but it’s ladies straight cut jeans that are dominating the catwalk for SS18. They’re the most popular silhouette this season and can give off summer vibes with a blue denim or bright white wash. High-rise, straight-leg cropped jeans are being worn by every blogger and influencer around — creating a fitted waist, a slimming appearance down to the ankle and a stylish, straight hem. But which style complements your shape? Well, naturally, the main thing to keep in mind is that you’re comfortable. Choose a style that you feel confident in and it’ll shine through. Here’s a little more information to get you fitted out right:

FOR PEAR-SHAPE: Pear-shaped figures are defined by carrying weight around their middle. A mid-rise style with a straight or bootcut leg can flatter your shape and elongate your legs. Try to avoid high-waisted trousers, as this style can make your legs look shorter

FOR APPLE-SHAPE: If you’re apple-shaped, you’re likely to carry weight around the middle of your body. A straight-leg is again great for this shape, as it brings a focus to the legs. Match with a pair of heels to dress up the outfit.

FOR PETITE FIGURES: Shorter women can find it difficult to find a pair of jeans that aren’t too overpowering. High-waisted trousers can create the illusion that you are taller as well as showing off your small figure. Low-rise jeans are also a good fit — wear with a cropped top in the warmer months to create a summery look.

FOR TALL FIGURES: If you’re tall, make the most of your long legs. Low-rise with a straight or skinny leg will achieve this, or if you want your pins to look even longer, go for a high-waisted cut.

WHICH WASHES ARE IN THIS SEASON?

When spring and summer hits, fashion shops become filled with lighter colours. Think of brightening up your wardrobe with the latest trend; coloured jeans. These come in the form of pretty pastel shades of yellow and pink which have taken inspiration from the catwalks, right through to cool khaki green washes which will have long-lasting appeal.

Do you like to opt for a classic blue jean? Aim for a slightly faded Californian shade for everyday denim, with a focus on frayed hems and ankle grazing lengths. If you want to take a more polished, work-appropriate approach, opt for crisp, clean washes. For denim in technicolour, look to the pastel shades of lemon and pink with touches of khaki green. Or consider stylish crops in Blossom pink and Cornflower blue for a real investment for the season. For a quirky look, choose a slit hem with exposed stitching to add an edge to any outfit.

WHICH BRAND TO BUY?

Why not treat yourself to a pair of designer jeans rather than a pair from the high-street? Think Citizens of Humanity, Frame and AG. You’ll probably already have realised that these jeans are worth the price point thanks to their impeccable tailoring and fabric technology, like J Brand’s Photo Ready fabric – which is ultra-slimming and promises to contour to your shape. This spring and summer, expect to see big-name brands from the jean scene, such as Paige Denim, with a unique offering of skinny and straight leg jeans that you won’t find anywhere else in the UK.

4 IDEAL TIPS FOR THE QUINTESSENTIAL U.K HOLIDAY

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4 IDEAL TIPS FOR THE QUINTESSENTIAL U.K HOLIDAY

While some may find it stressful, for many the planning of a holiday is one of the best parts of the trip.The anticipation rises and reaches a fervour, you begin to picture yourself having fun somewhere sunny and everything gets that little bit more real. What’s more, the longer you have to look forward to it means the more likely you are to save money by finding early bird prices online. 

If your vacation this summer is of the ‘stay’ variety, you might be finding a little more difficult to get in the mood. But, fear not, the U.K has so much on offer to get your excitement going. Yep, we’re talking coastlines, beaches, woodland walking routes, eateries, country pubs, party towns like Brighton, Liverpool, and Manchester, and quaint area of outstanding natural beauty such as The Cotswolds, the North Pennines, the Malvern Hills, and much more besides. With so much to choose from, you might be in need of a little guidance. Well, we’re here to help; here are 4 IDEAL tips for the quintessential UK holiday.

DON’T MISS THE FAMOUS COASTLINES

If you’re more at home donning walking boots than stilettos then you’re in luck, as there’s plenty of green lush space to explore in the UK. A popular walking route follows the South Downs Way trail from Winchester to Eastbourne and stretches 90 miles between picturesque villages and some truly stunning scenery. Brighton is along the way, so don’t miss out on spending a day or two there during your holiday. Use coastradar.com to help you map out history and heritage sites on your route. Another great, picturesque set of walks can be found along Dorset’s Jurassic Coast. Be sure to try the trek from Swanage to Worth Matrevers, ending with a pint at the fantastic Square and Compass pub as a reward.

USE TRAINS

When it comes to getting around, don’t forget to make the most of the island’s train links to pretty much anywhere in the country. It’s a great way to kick back and appreciate the diverse(ish) landscapes of the Great British isles. Train services can get you to the North from London in a matter of only a few hours, and you can even catch a train from London King’s Cross to Edinburgh that should take no more than four and a half hours. Simply take a book, and your earphones and you can gaze out of the train window at the British countryside. Book well in advance for big discounts.

PICNIC PARADISE

The UK has an amazing range of national parks, each with their own unique charm and stunning scenery, lakes and hills. And what could be more British than a picnic rug and hamper amongst the serene tranquility of the countryside? When a boozy lunch turns into an evening around the bonfire, consider a spot of camping; heaven. If you want to enjoy a traditional British luncheon, then be sure to pack sausage rolls, pork pies, and a healthy round of sandwiches, all rounded off with strawberries and cream. Oh, and don’t forget the pimms!

PREPARE FOR THE RAIN

There’s some truth in the rhetoric that the UK is always rainy, but we do get our fair share of sunshine in the summer months, too. Still, it’s wise to pack an umbrella and a lightweight raincoat with you just in case. Or, do as the Brits do and simply brave it, get wet, and spend the rest of the holiday complaining about our colds.

5 IDEAL REASONS TO GO DIVING & EXPLORE THE WORLD’S OCEANS

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5 IDEAL REASONS TO GO DIVING & EXPLORE THE WORLD’S OCEANS

Scuba diving is a past time fast becoming mainstream. With each year, its popularity grows and it’s easy to see why; it’s peaceful, eye-opening and safe. According to estimates made by NOAA’s National Geophysical Data Center, the world’s oceans consists of 321,003,271 cubic miles of water; meaning there’s enough to go round for everyone. So if you haven’t taken the plunge yet, together with Subsea pipeline inspection specialists Tracerco, we reveal 5 IDEAL reasons to go deep sea diving.

IT’S PEACEFUL

The crab Sebastian from the Little Mermaid wasn’t wrong when he implored Ariel to stay ‘under the sea’ because things were better down there. Down below it’s so peaceful – a completely different universe from the hustle and bustle of the world above. There’s no technology, no emails to answer and rush hour or traffic jams to cope with. It’s just you and the sound of your own breathing and the vast expanse of the ocean; a mentally calming experience that has been likened to meditating. Here, you don’t have to worry about anything else but exploring and appreciating the ocean world before you.

DISCOVER NEW SPECIES 

Beneath the sea’s surface, you’ll see creatures that you never know existed or have only seen in the documentaries. There are already hundreds of thousands of known species which exist in the world’s oceans. However, claims by scientists state that many more forms of marine life are yet to be discovered; just imagine, you could be one of those discoverers. On top of this, there are 4,000 species of coral reef fish to be found too, which is close to a quarter of all of the world’s marine fish species. Just be aware that a millilitre of ocean water also contains close to 1 million bacteria and 10 million viruses.

WITNESS GEOGRAPHICAL WONDERS

The ocean doesn’t solely boast amazing fish as its main event; it’s a hot bed of geographical wonders, too. The most famous of all is the Great Barrier Reef; the largest largest living structure on Earth. It measures around 2,600km and is so huge that it can be seen from the Moon. Fancy that?

Meanwhile, the Mariana Trench is the deepest known area across the ocean floor. Located in the western Pacific Ocean and to the east of the Mariana Islands, the deepest point found here measures in at an estimated 11,000 metres — or 36,000 feet. The average depth of the Earth’s oceans is also 3,720 metres — or 12,200 feet.

Then there’s the Mid-Oceanic Ridge — the world’s longest mountain range. This mountain chain stretches for more than 56,000km across and covers parts of the Atlantic Ocean, the Indian Ocean and the Pacific Ocean. Meanwhile, Earth’s highest mountain in the ocean is the Mauna Kea. Found off the coast of Hawaii, the mountain rises for 10,203 metres (33,474 feet) from the ocean floor, with 4,170 metres (13,680 feet) viewable above sea level.

Further examples of geographic wonders which are based in our oceans include a series of underwater volcanoes that explode with mud and methane as opposed to lava, and brine pools, discoverable in the ocean close to the Gulf of Mexico. What’s more, there are also underwater hot springs found across the Earth’s oceans, where water with temperatures of 650°F shoot out, hot enough to melt lead. And if that’s not enough for you, then you don’t deserve to dive anyway.

BEHOLD ARTEFACTS, REMNANTS & TREASURE

The ocean floor is like a museum. Actually, it’s better than a museum as the number of artefacts and remnants found in every museum across the globe is much less than the number to be found in the Earth’s oceans. There is almost 20 million tons of gold within the Earth’s oceans too — if all which was suspended was mined, there would be enough to give each person on the planet around 9 pounds of gold.

The ocean floor has also gathered an estimated $60 billion in sunken treasure. On top of all of this, scientists have predicted there is as much as 50 quadrillion tons of dissolved solids contained there too. Calcium salts, magnesium salts, potassium salts and sodium salts make up the bulk of this huge figure.

TEST YOUR PHYSICAL CAPABILITIES

Scuba diving is physically challenging. It’s an activity that requires you to be proactively fit and healthy. You’ll need to be able to swim for a long time with a tank on your back – although you won’t actually feel the weight of the equipment underwater. It will push you and test your physical capabilities to the max. Remember that exploring the ocean is on everybody’s bucket list, but before you get excited about that, making sure you have insurance is very important. Check out insurance from Dive Master for more information.

5 IDEAL ALTERNATIVE SUMMER FASHION STATEMENTS FROM THE KILLING TREE

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5 IDEAL ALTERNATIVE SUMMER FASHION STATEMENTS FROM THE KILLING TREE

There’s no better time of year than now to take a long hard look at your wardrobe to see whether or not it really expresses your personality to the max. The approaching summer months give you the chance to be a little more free in your clothing choices – to loosen up and really let your inner self shine through. As the weather warms up, it’s time to consign those thick sweaters, jeans and heavy winter coats to the back of the cupboard, and instead opt for something a little more exciting; alternative clothing to reflect this most confident of seasons.

We’ve taken some style inspiration from The Killing Tree, a brand dedicated to bringing beauty and art within easy reach of anyone and everyone. Thanks to their stunning art-inspired range of summer products, it’s never been easier to stay cool when the sun shines. So, here are 5 IDEAL alternative summer fashion statements from the Killing Tree.

TEES ALL YEAR ROUND

There’s no time of the year when a statement T shirt can’t be worn. Whether under a hoodie in the winter or on its own on the warmer days of the British Summer Time, TKT’s tee collections are worth wearing come rain or shine. Created by artists, these prints range from the neat and subtle to the dramatic and eye catching, and everything in between.

From striking animal designs to thought provoking images that will turn heads, the Killing Tree’s t-shirt selection has something to suit every taste and express every personality. Even better, every single item comes with a free matching art print so you can not only wear art, you can display it proudly in your home too.

A STATEMENT VEST

Nothing says summer quite like a vest, and the Killing Tree have a great range of vests for guys and girls wanting to make a bold statement. Whether you opt for the subtlety of a small motif or you prefer a large full-scale print, TKT’s designs have been created by talented artists with their own unique inspirations and designs. Indeed, anything from the Killing Tree’s vest range will keep you cool in more ways than one.

SHADING THE EYES

No well-dressed guy or girl would dream of being seen outdoors in the summer months without a pair of signature sunglasses, and TKT makes sure that you won’t be comprising on sun safety while looking stylish thanks to their fully UV protective selection. These are no basic ‘sunnies’ – they feature unique and original artwork by Dale Sarok, a fine art expert, and with their highly illustrative detail, they are much more than just an accessory.

SHORTS WITH A MOTIF

Nobody wants to wear trousers or jeans when the sun comes out, so when the mercury rises it’s time to get those legs out with a pair of TKT shorts. These come in two ranges, each with their own unique style.

Praise the Sun is a collection designed by Tom Gilmour, an artist who regularly works with TKT.  Focusing on intricate line work, his patterns are bold and mesmerising in equal measure.

The Hometown Love collection has been created by Kameeleon, a tattoo artist and illustrator from Manchester. This range features gothic and surrealist concepts for those who love thinking – and dressing – outside the box.

6 IDEAL WAYS TO FUND YOUR NEXT TRAVEL ADVENTURE

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6 IDEAL WAYS TO FUND YOUR NEXT TRAVEL ADVENTURE

If you love to travel (and who doesn’t?), you’ll well know that a lack of funds is most often the biggest obstacle to adventure. While very few people can finance a vacation every other month, there are some hacks, tricks and tips at every intrepid explorer’s disposal which could grant you more license to do what you love, where you love. So, next time you’re breaking open the piggy bank with sand and surf on your mind, bear these ideas in mind; our 6 IDEAL ways to fund your next travel adventure.

BECOME AN AIRBNB HOST

If you’re lucky enough to have an extra room, floor or even house which regularly goes unused, first of all, could you lend us some money? Secondly, have you considered renting them out in Airbnb? Renting your spare room out, or even your own one while you’re away, is an ideal way to fund your next trip. Moreover, there’s more than just pocket money to be made in the sharing economy, in fact, there’s more than just money to be made, full stop. There’s friends and memories abound too, if you host with open arms and gusto.

PLAN AHEAD

As simple as it sounds, you can’t save money retrospectively for your trip. Hindsight is a wonderful thing, but once pounds have been spent, they’re spent and it’s gone. So planning ahead is the only really meaningful way to save some serious coin. Little and often is a great philosophy to keep when you’re trying to save, and cutting back on lots of smaller outgoings will go a long way.f you’re peckish, wait till you get home to eat as opposed to picking up a snack on the way home. If you’re thirsty, go for a simple bottle of water as opposed to expensive fruit juice.

So you can eat well at great restaurants and indulge in new dishes when you’re away on your travel adventure, cut back your spending at home on food. This means no unnecessary trips to the coffee shop, no takeaways and making your own lunch for work. Getting busy in the kitchen is one sure-fire way to save money. Bulk buying fresh vegetables and meat – cheaper, of course, than single items – allows you to cook larger batches of whatever takes your fancy, saving money on lunch and dinner further down the week

REFINANCE HIGH INTEREST LOANS

Another option to consider is refinancing high interest loans. You don’t have to be fancy footed on the FTSE to pull this off. Indeed, this could be a mortgage you got right after uni when your credit wasn’t as established as it is today or even private student loans you used to get through graduate school. Use the extra money each month you now have because of the lower payment to save for your next travel excursion.

PICK UP SIDE WORK

One of the best ways to make a little extra money is by putting in some extra hours somewhere deep in the gig economy. For example, driving for a ride sharing company, such as Uber or Lyft, in your spare time can be a great way to earn the extra cash you need to take a trip. Just be sure to put your earnings in your special vacation savings account, so you won’t spend it elsewhere.

LOWER YOUR HOUSING COST

This can be done in a number of ways. If you rent, move into a smaller place or into an apartment that’s more energy efficient. If you’re a homeowner, moving may not be a viable option, but changes to the home can help you save on utility costs. By investing in some smart home devices, such as a smart thermostat, you can get a more precise control over your energy usage. When you start getting those lower utility bills, take the difference and put it in your savings account which you opened after reading the previous paragraph.

USE YOUR CREDIT CARDS AS AN INVESTMENT TOOL

Take advantage of rewards and points offered by credit cards to get the most out of them. While you might pay higher interest on purchases, the airline miles and reward points you earn may be worth it, because it will help you spend more time traveling. Even taking advantage of new customer bonuses can help you build up a nice nest egg for your next trip.

5 IDEAL TIPS FOR PICKING THE RIGHT SUITCASE

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5 IDEAL TIPS FOR PICKING THE RIGHT SUITCASE

As if there wasn’t enough to worry about. The paradox of choice grips us at every turn; which brand of baked beans should I buy and which brand of toast should I eat them with; which dating app will bring me a happy ever after and which suitor on said app is most suitable; who to make friends with, who to unfollow….the list goes on.

We have so many options and so many choices to make in life, we need a holiday just to get away from it all. Indeed, a vacation should be a time out from the tyranny of decision making, but so often the trip of a lifetime is mired in stress before it’s even started, and that’s often down to packing. But if you can get the suitcase right, the rest packs itself. With that in mind, here are 5 IDEAL tips for picking the right suitcase.

DECIDE ON A SUITABLE AMOUNT

Rhetorical questions abound before you’re abroad. Ask yourself; how long am I going for? Can I get away with just taking hand luggage? Is the weather – and therefore the clothes – predictable?

There are a plethora of different sizes when it comes to suitcases. To help you get your head around it, here’s a short summary:

    • 18″ – 20″ Carry-on – Small, sure, but ideal for a night or two away.
    • 21″ – 22″ Carry-on – A bit bigger in size and considered suitable to choose if embarking on a long weekend, perhaps.
    • 23″ – 24″ Small checked luggage –  Again perfect for a Friday to Monday break, but with the added wiggle room of a few souvenirs.
    • 25″ – 27″ Checked luggage – We’re hitting real getaway territory here, anything above a week really.
    • 28″ – 32″ Suitcase – For those who mean business.

SPECIAL FEATURES

As the old saying goes, no suitcase was created equal. And generally, it’s special features which differentiate the good from the great. Always remember to check if your carry-on suitcase complies with airline regulations; you don’t want added stress at the airport when you’re turned away.  

Easy-to-roll wheels are essential, as they help you glide through the airport with speed and good grace. And if we’re getting scientific, high-tech composite fabrics are best for securing the safety of any fragile stuff within.  Indeed, often made from quasi-flexible polycarbonate, hardshell cases are best if your travelling with anything breakable.

Finally, easily accessible front pockets protect against the danger of fumbling for documents and electronics that seems to afflict us all when passing through security. For this, soft shell suitcases are ideal as the usually come with additional pockets and zippers. They’re also perfect if your after some additional storage space for all that shopping you’ll inevitably do.

SUITCASE DURABILITY

The best suitcases however, are nothing without being durable. Though some online shopping brands do mention  durability of luggage in the product description, it’s often better to be hands on and in person when checking out this element of a suitcase. If you do go down the online path, it’s best to read reviews extensively and exhaustively. 

 

SAFETY FEATURES

The modern suitcase is one designed with paranoia in mind. Locks, ranging from pad to to key code accessible, should now be provided as standard. Of course, if (like us) you’re the forgetful sort, you might want to forgo this feature in favour of your own perverse peace of mind; an additional worry of losing the key to your case isn’t one you want on your holiday.

THE COST

We hate to be that bore, but we need to talk about money. Choosing the right suitcase, one which will be durable, secure and spacious for its size, often costs that little bit more. It’s up to you whether you decide to spend big and use it for years, or save those few extra pounds for some beachside mojitos and worry about the bag later. The sensible version of us would go for the former. Happy travels!

5 IDEAL WAYS TO BOOST YOUR BODY CONFIDENCE THIS SUMMER

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5 IDEAL WAYS TO BOOST YOUR BODY CONFIDENCE THIS SUMMER

It’s that time of year, when holidays poolside start getting arranged, cameras lenses start flicking and the nagging doubt about whether you’ll still fit in your bikini looms large. But we thought this was meant to be fun, right? We here at IDEAL say it’s time to banish those worries and woes about how you’ll compare on the beach and just focus on feeling the very best you can in your beautiful, unique frame. So, here are 5 IDEAL ways to boost your body confidence this summer.

DON’T BELIEVE THE HYPE

You’re probably being bombarded with ads right now about ‘how to get beach body ready’, but rather than raising anticipation for the summer, your body anxiety is instead in danger of reaching an all time high. In our image and Instagram driven society, it’s hard not to compare yourself to unrealistic images of woman daily.

 According to a study conducted in 2016 by Dove, 69% of women and 65% of girls across the world say they experience a constantly increasing pressure from the media to reach an unattainable standard of beauty.  This is one of the driving forces behind not feeling confident about your body, so bear this in mind next time low self-esteem hits.

There’s nothing more beautiful than self-confidence, so it’s time to curb all of that comparing yourself to others and banish those media-defined ideals of beauty. Instead of going on a diet, do yourself a favour and cut down on the amount of media you’re using. You’ll be amazed at the results.

FOLLOW BODY POSITIVE SOCIAL MEDIA

If you can’t curb your obsession with social media – and yep, we accept it’s tough – then you could do worse than following some bloggers and Instagram influencers who promote self love and a body positive image. Spend some time cleaning up the people who you follow, removing those who make you feel bad about yourself and instead fill your feed with people who focus on feeling good about yourself, no matter what you look like. Everyone has different quirks and flaws, to be embraced and savoured, so save all that perfectionist stuff for the professionals.

ENCOURAGE OTHERS TO BE BODY POSITIVE, TOO

Research suggests, counter-intuitively it seems, that your friends might be making you feel self-conscious.  Indeed, women are particularly, prone to competitive self- criticism. When friends complain about their fat thighs or bulging belly it impacts on you too, as you’ll probably be compelled to tell them about something you don’t like about yourself. Moreover, this body bashing talk may increase worry about an element of your body you’ve been fixating on. However, it’s time to battle this detrimental self-talk. Instead of the ‘fat-talk’, bring in some positivity. Compliment your friends and celebrate your positives. Create an atmosphere of self love and surround yourself with body positivity and soon others will follow suit. Result!

FORGET ABOUT SIZES

Think this size 10 is the same size 10 as at the boutique across the street? Think again. Sizes differ from shop to shop, person to person, and figure to figure, so don’t fret if a certain item isn’t exactly your fit  – size after all ain’t nothing but a number and an erroneous one at that. We’re all different. When you’re trying on clothes, take several sizes (both bigger and smaller) with you into the changing room and pick which one fits best, no matter what the label says. 

INVEST IN CLOTHES THAT MAKE YOU FEEL FABULOUS

Did you know that the style of and clothes you put on your body reflect and affect your mood, confidence and self esteem. Scientists call this phenomenon “enclothed cognition”. So if you’re wearing frumpy old clothes, you’re probably going to feel the same.

One of the keys to feeling fabulous in your own clothes is getting the size, shape and style of the clothes right. Start with quality, well fitting underwear.  It’s astonishing the number of women who don’t know their bra size, and as we come in all shapes and sizes, from bras in sizes small to xxl, get yourself measured, dress accurately, and you’ll feel great.

Underwear that actually fits you will help your clothes fit you better, too, and  give extra enhancement to your body, accentuating your best parts, helping you to feel good about the clothes you’re wearing. And we all want that, right?

4 IDEAL UPGRADES TO TURN YOUR HOUSE IN TO A HOME

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4 IDEAL UPGRADES TO TURN YOUR HOUSE IN TO A HOME

What makes a house a home? An existential question indeed. It seems that aside from the actual amount of time spent living there, the factors which contribute to domestic bliss are something notoriously difficult to define. Of course, family play an integral part, as do housemates, whether human or furry. But it’s also important to consider the huge impact that decor and design has on homeliness. With this in mind, here are 4 IDEAL upgrades to turn your house in to a home.

FURNITURE

Furniture often plays a major role in how your house looks as well as how it feels. However, with time, you can get a little bored of seeing the same concept every day. Indeed, it simply becomes part of the furniture if you’re not careful.

No matter the quality of the items you own, they’re bound to begin looking dull with time. For this reason, investing in new furniture or trading some in for more modern models is a wise move in the long term. Some ideas for upgrading your living room furniture include adding or replacing the hardware on your pieces, adding a gold leaf to mirrors, tables, or chairs, and buying new upholstery such as a side chair. Other ideas if you happen to be on a budget and trying to cut costs are to spray paint, reupholster, or refresh your wooden pieces if they’re beginning to lose their sheen.

BATHROOM

Your bathroom isn’t just a place to sit and contemplate life’s bigger questions. Aside from the fact that you’re in there daily for one reason or another, it can also be a place that provides comfort and relaxation. When you’re thinking about renovating and upgrading, you should look to place your bathroom fairly high on the priority list. Small, considered improvements, such as changing the basin to something modern or redoing the tiles can make a world of difference to the space. Other ways to upgrade include building a vanity dresser, anchoring a title bar, and installing a medicine cabinet if you don’t have one already.

If you or a family member has unique needs or mobility challenges, then you could do much worse than consulting a specialist like Mobility Plus. Something as simple as changing your shower to walk-in design could be all it takes to transition the space from functional to fun. 

KITCHEN

For many of us, the kitchen is the most important room of our house. It’s where the good stuff goes down; where we cook for our friends, eat with our family, and test our baking skills and beyond. If your kitchen is the heart of your home, it should be a space you love and nurture. To ensure you enjoy spending time in your kitchen, you should make sure that it suits your personality and sense of style.

Upgrades to consider carrying out in your kitchen are a factoring in of rustic elements, upgrading your accessories, adding new hardware, trying Roman shades if you want a finished look, and trying stylish new pendant lights. Doing this should make your kitchen look both modern and add value to it. Remember to buy quality pieces that will last for a good period of time to avoid replacing things repeatedly.

GARDEN.

Everyone needs somewhere to escape the hustle and bustle of life, preferably somewhere with lots of natural light and fresh air. Consider creating a chill out area with some fancy garden furniture, perfect for encouraging spending long summer days enjoying your beautiful garden. Even if you have a small outdoor space you sling up a hammock or garden swing set to make the area more appealing for long, lazy summer days. Or why not have a go at landscape gardening to help you truly pimp it out?

THE IDEAL STYLE GUIDE FOR SUMMER EVENTS

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THE IDEAL STYLE GUIDE FOR SUMMER EVENTS

Summer is fast approaching, and it’s all suns out, shades on, best side forward from here on in. We’re a generation that thrives off likes, comments and shares, and as such, we’ll likely be living our favourite moments of the season through Instagram ad finitum, time and time again. It’s pretty important, then, to be looking our best once the sunshine illuminates our best bits and brings unwanted attention to those we’re less proud of.

The summer social schedule is a packed and diverse affair, and with this in mind, we’ve teamed up with Dimensions, who offer a tailored workwear service, to bring you the IDEAL style guide for summer events. 

POOL PARTIES

Whether you’re ultra-confident or prefer a more reserved style when attending a pool party, there are plenty of options available. One of the biggest bikini trends of this year is the high-waisted bikini; flattering and with a retro appeal, these are perfect if you want to cover your midriff.  When it comes to swimsuits, pastel colours are very much in this season and it’s important to remember that the lighter you go, the more heat repellent you become. This can ultimately make you feel more comfortable when spending long spells in the sun. Don’t be afraid to pair your swimsuit with a silky-cover up that can be easily put on and taken off when you please, offering a little protection against the more assertive moments of sunshine.

GARDEN PARTY / SUMMER BARBEQUE

Both garden parties and summer barbeques are tricky to dress for. It’s all too easy to arrive overdressed or way too casual, and that’s before we even consider the temperamental, ever changing nature of the Great British summer. The answer is to strike a happy medium with a day dress. Easy to wear, flattering hem lengths and flowing materials are all characteristics of the perfect day dress; the more wistful, whimsical and evocative of frolics in the long grass, the better. These are a simple style you can take all the way through the summer, and their versatility means you have a ready-made outfit for any occasion. Oh, and remember your flat shoes; ideal for navigating grass, gravel and the more uncertain terrains of alfresco amusement.

SUMMER FESTIVALS

This is where your creative fashion freedom is unleashed — when dressing for a festival, there is nothing that you can’t mix and match with. Maybe give the cultural-appropriating fancy dress a miss though.

Dressing for a festival all comes down to personal preference. There are, however, a few ground rules that ought to be considered. Every festival goer should think about carrying a light bumbag; they’re a festival failsafe when wanting to keep your personal item, such as smartphone, charger, purse and keys, both safe and dry. Any garment or accessory that has a boho hippie chic edge is ideal for the spirit of free livin’. Think fringed jackets, cut-off denim shorts and crocheted tops. We also think that flower garland crowns are a great way to add a bohemian vibe to your festival outfit.

In terms of what not to wear, you don’t want to be in a long maxi dress at a festival, as this could potentially be trampled, so instead opt for cottoned shorts that are spacious enough to let you dance the day and night away, as well as a light vest top that allows your body to breathe. While playsuits are cute, they are best avoided as they’re are a nightmare when you need to use the those festival portaloos. For your shoes, go for something flat like converse or buckled sandals so your feet don’t get too tired!

ROMANTIC BEACH WALKS

When you set out on a romantic beach walk, you don’t want to be giving up half way through, out of breath and exhausted by uncomfortable, prohibiting clothes. The last thing you want to feel is the struggling of making it to the other end, so to combat this, you need to wear lighter materials which allow you to drift across the soft white sands with grace and elegance. We recommend wearing a beach dress that is made up of viscose materials and to go for something that is predominantly dark but has flushes of bright; bold and beautiful colours are in. Pair these with loose-fitted sandals that can be easily removed when you’re venturing out into the water for the perfect, effortless look.

5 IDEAL TIPS FOR CREATING A FREE HOME GYM WITH ITEMS YOU ALREADY OWN

Editorial Team
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5 IDEAL TIPS FOR CREATING A FREE HOME GYM WITH ITEMS YOU ALREADY OWN

For those who love hitting the gym but are currently in self-isolation or simply working from home, creating your own workout domestic regime is the answer. Before you start adding up how much it’s going to cost for all the equipment you’ll need, consider putting together one using items you already own for free. Most fitness fanatics know you can do nearly a full work-out with just a wall, and with a few basic additions you’ll be giving each and every muscle group the attention it deserves. So, here are 5 IDEAL tips for creating a free home gym during self isolation with items you already own.

CHAIR SQUATS AND DIPS

A solid dining room or kitchen chair is often the optimum height for doing squats, depending on your size. Begin by sitting on the chair with a straight back and arms out in front before slowly standing and lowering yourself back down, but just hovering above the seat; and there you have it, a simple squat. Alternatively, to work those triceps, use the seat as you would a bench at the gym, lowering your body but not letting your elbows bend more than 90 degrees.

GROCERY WEIGHTS

If you only intend to do dumbbell workouts or are just starting out on the road to building up your strength, find something that weighs a couple of kilograms. It could be full washing power bottles, large cans of beans or big, empty bottles that you fill with water. Ensure that you’ve got two of them for balance and that they can be held comfortably. Then these can be used for all sorts of high-rep exercises, such as lunges, bicep curls, squats and more.

LADDER EXERCISES

Ladder drills are a great way to improve agility and burn plenty of calories when done at high intensity. It’s best if you have a garden (though you’ll probably only own a ladder if that’s the case anyway). Lay down your ladder and run or jump through each individual square, mixing it up to test different muscles. A quality step ladder that’s properly secured can also be used for step exercises, again, best done outside.

HOMEMADE FOAM ROLLERS

Foam rollers have become a trendy piece of fitness equipment in recent years and they do their uses, particularly for stretching and yoga exercises. Rather than splash out for something that’s essentially a tube of foam, roll a thick dry towel up well and tightly insert a rolling pin into the centre. This should work just as well as the foam version if you’ve secured it tightly, and you can still use both the items later when needed. Two birds, one stone springs to mind.

TV FITNESS GAMES

For this last idea, all you need is a working TV, your favourite programme and enough space to do a press up. We’ve all heard of TV and film drinking games and this is the same, but replacing taking a shot with doing a set of exercise turns it from harmful to healthy in no time. For example, with the Big Bang Theory drinking game simply swap any time Raj whispers or Penny says ‘sweetie’ from taking a sip of your drink to doing ten press-ups, sit-ups or burpees. The possibilities are endless.

5 IDEAL WAYS TO SPEND YOUR SURPLUS DAYS OFF WORK

Editorial Team
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5 IDEAL WAYS TO SPEND YOUR SURPLUS DAYS OFF WORK

According to a recent survey by British Airways published in the Guardian, one third of us did not use our full annual leave entitlement last year. On average, we wasted four days each. Let that sink in for a minute – last year, some of us worked four days for free. Ouch.

Us Brits, it seems, need to take a fresh look at free time. All too often, we use a day’s leave to get our house in order or do life admin rather than relax. Perhaps we have a dentist’s appointment, need to wait in at home for the plumber or accompany the kids on a school trip. In short, too many of us aren’t using our well deserved downtime right. What kind of ‘holiday’ is that?

But what if you a booked a day off for no other purpose than to do something to benefit you or that you’d not otherwise have the chance to do? Rather than waste those days off, it’s time to enjoy them. With this in mind, here are 5 IDEAL ways to spend your surplus days off work.

DON’T HAVE A PLAN

The chance to recuperate and revitalize doesn’t happen every day – so how does a day without any goals beyond relaxing and recharging your batteries sound? Yep, good to us too. Stay in bed as long as you want. Have a leisurely breakfast or brunch and take time to read the newspaper or that book you’ve been meaning to pick up. Listen to music, take a long relaxing bubble bath, paint your toenails and apply a face mask. Or don’t even. Go for a walk, head to that boutique shop or the art gallery you don’t ever have time to visit during your usual chore-filled days off. Or just have a day watching movies in your PJ’s and an afternoon nap. Spend the day doing what you like when you want or do absolutely nothing at all – that’s the pleasure of having no plans.

IDEAL FOR: A little ‘me time’ and recharging the batteries. Doing absolutely nothing sometimes is actually rather good for you after all.

BAKE AWAY YOUR STRESS

When’s the last time you baked a cake, experimented with a cookie recipe or created a pavlova from scratch? The methodical nature of baking makes it a very therapeutic activity. First, you get to weigh and measure the ingredients, next you can appreciate their delicious aroma as they bake. And finally, you get to eat them too. You could even have the pleasure of sharing them with your nearest and dearest if you so wish. According to research (funded by the GBBO perhaps?), baking, especially when it’s done for others, has a host of psychological benefits. It’s been proven that people who take on creative projects like baking feel more relaxed and happier in their everyday lives. So it’s about time you put on your apron and cooked up some apple crumble or your favourite school traybake, don’t you think?

IDEAL for: Clearing the mind and out your cupboards. If you take some of your baked goods into the office when you return to work it may score you some brownie points too, literally.  

GET YOUR HEART PUMPING

While some people’s idea of a therapeutic day is doing nothing at all, for others it’s all about trying new things. When you’re alarm goes off, it’s sometimes nice to know you’re doing something new and exciting rather than just getting ready and going off to work. If your daily life has become a little mundane of late, why not book yourself some kind of challenge? Is there something you’ve always wanted to do but never made time for? What activities would make taking a holiday day really worthwhile? From driving experience days spent racing sports cars to parachuting or learning the basics of flying a plane, why not explore ways to get your heart pumping. That way, on your next day out of the office you can make memories and tick activities off your personal bucket list. 

IDEAL for: When you’re feeling a bit bored and are in need of a new challenge. Working your way through a few unusual activities will certainly give you some conversation starting material and you could discover a new hobby too.

CHANGE COUNTRY FOR A DAY

Do you fancy visiting a new country just for the day? Book some cheap flights in advance and choose your destination wisely –  it’s a lot more doable than it sounds. You can pop to Paris from London in just a few hours by train, so if you’ve always wanted to visit La Louvre, why not pencil it in for your next day of vacay? A flight from Newcastle Upon Tyne to Amsterdam takes just one hour and 20 minutes, giving you plenty of time to hop on a bike and explore the city or to take a cruise by canal, have a little lunch and be home for dinner. How does a trip from Manchester to Berlin sound? In less than two hours you could be having kafe and kuchen in Germany’s capital. Or a trip from Edinburgh to Copenhagen in one hour and 45 minutes could see you exploring the capital of Scandi cool. Just don’t forget your passport and remember to tell someone you’re leaving the country, okay?

IDEAL for: Finding out where you’d like to holiday for longer, exploring new cuisines on your lunch hour and brushing up on your language skills.

SLEEP YOURSELF HAPPY

How are you sleeping? Do you get your eight hours in or is it a struggle? Whether you’re the proud parent of a sleep thief or you find work and your social life chip away at time spent in slumber, how does a day in bed sound? Not sleeping well can have such a disastrous impact on our mood that actually, if you’ve got the option, sometimes you might be better off taking a holiday day to sleep it off. Studies have found that not getting enough sleep is one the of biggest contributors to having a ‘bad day’. Research suggests that the best time to claw back hours lost is in the immediate aftermath. However, if your house is going to be occupied by your kids or housemates you may need to look for an alternative slumber spot. Why not kill two birds with one stone by spending a relaxing day at the spa or hairdressers? Now wouldn’t that be better than feeling drained and irritable all day?

IDEAL for: Preventing burnout, avoiding irritable bad mood days and indulging in essential downtime.

AN IDEAL SUMMER SALAD: QUINOA, FENNEL & SWEET POTATO SALAD

THE IDEAL FOOD TEAM
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AN IDEAL SUMMER SALAD: QUINOA, FENNEL & SWEET POTATO SALAD

With summer in sight, Executive Head Chef at Sopwell House, Gopi Chandran reveals his recipe for a delicious and nutritious salad that will get you starting the season right.

INGREDIENTS

  • 4 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 large sweet potato, diced
  • 2 medium fennel bulbs, cut lengthways into ¼ inch thick slices
  • Malden sea salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • 20ml fresh lemon juice
  • 1½ tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 200g quinoa, rinsed
  • 1 lemon
  • 1 red chilli, chopped and deseeded
  • 10g fresh coriander, chopped
  • 10g fresh mint, chopped
  • 15g fresh dill, chopped
  • Seeds from ½ a small pomegranate

METHOD

  1. Heat 3 tbsp of oil in a large skillet over a medium heat. Add the fennel and season with salt and pepper. Cook for around 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the fennel is just tender and lightly golden. Add the lemon juice, and sugar. Stir through and cook for a further minute. Season with salt and pepper and set to one side.
  2. Preheat the oven to 180°C. Drizzle the sweet potato with olive oil, sea salt and cumin. Roast in the oven for 10 minutes, and then set aside.
  3. Meanwhile, bring the quinoa and 700ml water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Cover and reduce to a low simmer for around 10 minutes until the quinoa is cooked. Drain and return to the pan. Let the quinoa sit in the pan covered for 15 minutes, before fluffing with a fork and transferring to a large bowl.
  4. Remove the peel and white pith from the lemon. Cut between the membranes to release the segments. Discard the membranes and roughly chop. Add the chopped lemon with its juices to the cooked quinoa along with the remaining 1 tbsp of oil and stir. Add the fennel mixture, sweet potato, chilli, and herbs. Gently incorporate and season with salt and pepper. Transfer salad to a bowl or platter and sprinkle with pomegranate seeds.

IDEAL FOR YOUR SUMMER BBQ: BARBECUED BEER RIBS

THE IDEAL FOOD TEAM
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IDEAL FOR YOUR SUMMER BBQ: BARBECUED BEER RIBS

 

Summer grilling season is nearly here and we’ve got the ideal recipe to turn your barbecue from ordinary to extraordinary. Acclaimed teacher, TV chef and School of Wok founder Jeremy Pang shares his recipe for Barbecued Tsingtao Beer Ribs, adapted from his book Chinese Unchopped (Quadrille £19.99).

INGREDIENTS ( SERVES 6-8 PEOPLE)

  • 4 garlic cloves
  • a large knob of ginger
  • 30 spare ribs
  • 8 tablespoons tomato ketchup
  • 8 tablespoons hoisin sauce
  • 4 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 4 tablespoons dark soy sauce
  • 4 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 500ml of Tsingtao beet
  • 1⁄2 spring onion, finely chopped, to garnish

PREPARATION

  • Preheat the oven to 150°C/300°F/Gas 2.
  • Finely chop the garlic and ginger and put in a deep roasting tray or big pot suitable for the oven along with the ribs and all the other ingredients. Mix everything together thoroughly, ensuring the ribs are well covered.

COOKING

  • Transfer the ribs to the oven and cook uncovered for at least 2–3 hours, basting and turning the ribs every so often so they don’t burn (if they do start to ‘catch’, turn your oven down slightly). Towards the end of the cooking time the ribs will start to break up and fall apart slightly – this is a good sign, but you want to keep them as whole as possible (ready for grilling), so be careful when turning.
  • Transfer the ribs to a hot barbecue and cook in batches for 2–3 minutes on each side until the outsides of the ribs are glazed and charred. Drizzle over a little of the remaining sauce and sprinkle over some finely chopped spring onion to garnish. Enjoy.

TIP: If you fancy cooking these on a normal night
 in (or the weather isn’t looking good) then pop the ribs under the hot grill in the oven instead of on the barbecue after roasting. Although the ribs are always better after they’ve been grilled slightly, if you just can’t wait they can always be eaten straight after roasting in the oven.

IDEAL FOR YOUR SUMMER BBQ: BEER CAN PIRI PIRI CHICKEN RECIPE

THE IDEAL FOOD TEAM
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IDEAL FOR YOUR SUMMER BBQ: BEER CAN PIRI PIRI CHICKEN RECIPE

Cooking on a beer can is nothing new: in Australia they’ve been doing it for years. The secret is that the beer keeps the inside of the chicken nice and moist while it’s cooking on the barbecue.

To make your summer barbecue extra special this year, we’ve got James Martin’s delicious recipe for his succulent beer can piri piri chicken with garlic butter jacket potatoes. You’ll need a barbecue with a lid, and you can cook the jacket potatoes in foil alongside. With added garlic butter at the end, this makes a truly delicious summertime meal.

INGREDIENTS (Serves 4)

  • 11⁄2 tablespoons sweet smoked paprika
  • 1⁄2 tablespoon hot smoked paprika

  • 1⁄2 teaspoon chilli flakes

  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
  • 3 limes
  • 3 lemons
  • 5 tablespoons olive oil, plus extra to drizzle
  • 1 x 2kg whole chicken
  • 4 baking potatoes, scrubbed
  • sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 garlic bulbs
  • 1 can of beer, half full
  • 3 tablespoons finely chopped chives
  • 250g unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 head of lettuce, root removed and leaves separated
  • 4 ripe tomatoes, cut into chunks
  • 1⁄4 cucumber, cut in half lengthways, then into slices
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

METHOD

  1. Put both the paprikas, chilli flakes, Dijon mustard, red wine vinegar, the juice of
1 lime and of 1 lemon into a bowl and mix to a paste. Pour the paste into a large plastic bag, then add the olive oil and the chicken. Seal at the end and shake around so that the chicken is covered in spices.
  2. Prick the potatoes, then rub with a little oil, salt and black pepper, and wrap each one in foil. Place 1 garlic bulb on another sheet of foil and drizzle with oil, then twist tight.
  3. Cut the second garlic bulb in half and place inside the chicken, then manoeuvre the half- full beer can into the bottom of the chicken too. The beer will bubble up and create steam inside the chicken, keeping it moist as it cooks, but you only need the can to be half full otherwise it will spill over.
  4. Put the potatoes and garlic on a barbecue, then place the chicken upright, standing on the beer can in the centre. Make a silver
foil collar for the base of the chicken to protect it slightly, then cover with a lid and roast for 15 minutes. Remove the garlic bulb and roast for another 30 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the potatoes are tender. If you want to cook this in a roasting tray in the oven, you will probably need to place the chicken on a low shelf to fit it in. Cook the garlic for 15 minutes and the chicken and potatoes for 45–60 minutes, at 200°C/400°F/gas mark 6.
  5. Take the cooked garlic out of the foil and allow to cool. Cut the top off the bulb and squeeze the cooked garlic out into a bowl. Add the chives and the softened butter, and mix together.
  6. Toss the lettuce, tomatoes and cucumber together in a large serving bowl, and drizzle with a little extra virgin olive oil. Cut the remaining limes and lemons into chunks.
  7. Place the cooked chicken on the beer can in the centre of a serving platter. Loosen the foil from the potatoes, cut a cross in the top of them, squeeze gently and spoon the garlic butter on top. Place them around the chicken and garnish with the lemons and limes.

Recipe courtesy of BBC Good Food Show Summer . Photography: Peter Cassidy

IDEAL FOR YOUR SUMMER BBQ: TOMATO & CHILLI JAM RECIPE

THE IDEAL FOOD TEAM
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IDEAL FOR YOUR SUMMER BBQ: TOMATO & CHILLI JAM RECIPE

This barbeque season, put down the bottle of generic tomato ketchup and surprise your guests with something a little more original. Island Grill, the sustainable restaurant in Lancaster London, offers an unrivalled, eco-friendly menu. Adam Woolven, Head Chef at Island Grill, shares his recipe for a tangy Tomato and Chilli Jam.

INGREDIENTS

  • 1kg Very Ripe Plum Tomatoes
  • 5 Red Chilli Peppers
  • 8 Garlic Cloves
  • Ginger (10cm piece)
  • 60ml Fish Sauce
  • 550g Demerara Sugar
  • 200ml Red Wine Vinegar
  • Pinch of Salt and Pepper

METHOD

Step 1: Bring a large pot of water to the boil. Add the plum tomatoes to the water and boil for 10-15 seconds. Following this, run the tomatoes under cold water, then peel and quarter them.

Step 2: Peel the ginger (easiest done with a spoon), then finely chop it, along with the garlic cloves and chilli.

Step 3: In a large pan, cook the tomatoes, garlic, ginger and chillies on a low heat until the mixture becomes of pulp-like consistency. Pour the fish sauce, red wine vinegar and Demerara sugar into the mix. Stir well. Season with a little salt and pepper.

Step 4: Don’t wait for the jam to cool – store the jam in a sterilized jar whilst still hot.

Step 5: Scoop a generous spoonful of jam onto your freshly barbecued burger – and enjoy!

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