The best reviving treats for eyes...

It’s no secret that the eye area is incredibly fragile and shows signs of lifestyle and ageing well before any other area of the face. Give your eyes some intensive TLC, plus a healthy dose of hydration, with our pick of the most effective eye care…

Kiehl’s Cryste Marine Firming Eye Treatment

Refresh, hydrate and firm with the help of Kiehl’s high-performance botanical formula, ideal for super sensitive eyes that are in need of soothing care. The key ingredient in the treatment is Padina Pavonica, an extract from the protective coating surrounding brown algae, sourced from the Mediterranean Sea; this helps to dramatically improve elasticity and tone, while vitamins C and E soften fine lines and promote cell turnover. Criste Marine (another type of sea algae), is added for its antioxidant and rejuvenating properties, and caffeine assures enhanced brightness and vitality, while banishing that dreaded puffed effect. Simply pat the luxurious cream along the contour, using light pressure.

Aromatherapy Associates Rich Repair Eye Cream

The perfect remedy for extremely dry and parched eyes, Aromatherapy Associates’ rich treatment contains nourishing pure plant extracts and essential oils to plump the eye area and intensively replenish lost moisture. Rose and Frankincense work to lift and tighten the skin, stimulating blood circulation, while honey and Sodium Hyaluronate (a form of vegetable pulp), hydrate the target area, aiding the skin to retain moisture naturally. There are anti-ageing benefits too, as oligopeptides increase the release of collagen, leaving skin beautifully plump and youthful.

Anatomicals Eye Cream You Scream, We All Scream For Eye Cream

If you are looking for a fuss-free, uncomplicated eye treatment, suitable for everyday both morning and night, look no further than Anatomicals’ wonderfully effective and super economical regenerating eye cream. This gentle cream is great for normal skin types, and anyone looking to protect and hydrate the under-eye area – without any specific concerns.  The formula effectively balances moisture levels and addresses the first signs of ageing, including fine expression lines. We’ve found that the results are as refreshing as the quirky name…

Elemis Pro-Collagen Intense Eye and Lip Contour Cream

Lifestyle factors and enivironments that put the skin under stress all result in dull, dry eyes and premature ageing – think air condtitioning, sun exposure, prolonged computer use and smoking. The same factors can affect the delicate lip area too. Luckily for us, the skin care experts at Elemis have formulated this multi-use wonder cream to combat the dreaded lines we all want to erase or prevent. A combination of active plant cells, including Mafane Flower, Edelweiss and Wheat Amino Acid strengthen collagen fibres and protect the skin cells, allowing it to regain density, while hydrating and smoothing.

The Body Shop Elderflower Cooling Eye Gel

For those who favour a more lightweight texture, choose this cooling gel to awaken the eyes, first thing in the morning. The enlivening formula immediately gives a wide-eyed look, perfect to fake others into believing you’ve enjoyed eight, blissful hours of sleep. Although dark circles appear lessened with regular use, we particularly rate this product for its refreshing benefits. For an extra zing, try storing the gel in the fridge to enjoy a more intense, cooling sensation. Excellent for hay fever sufferers, too.

One of Lefay's eco-chic luxe junior suites

With the hulking snow-capped escarpments of the Italian Alps to the north and the silvery waters of Lake Garda below, the view from the pool at Lefay Resort and Spa takes some beating. As I swam in lazy loops through water so warm it practically qualified as a bath, I had to rack my brains to think of anywhere I’d stayed that had boasted a similarly impressive vista.

Lefay is one of a new breed of Italian hotels characterised by putting the environment at the forefront of its hospitality, along with a typically Latin focus on luxury. What’s more, although Lefay is green, it’s certainly no slouch in the style stakes. The minimalist lobby with its dark wood and violet accents would look at home in a New York boutique hotel, while its 90 rooms and suites come complete with huge bath tubs, luxuriously squashy beds and balconies boasting stunning views of the mountains. Apart from a small card asking you not to have your sheets changed every day, the eco side of Lefay is well hidden. And that’s a bit of a shame because much of what the hotel does is impressive. There’s a huge biomass boiler tucked away behind the hotel, which converts leftover chips from the local furniture industry into power and compost. The olive oil that turns up in the spa and at every meal is made from the hotel’s own olives; even the pool contributes, with water from the three pools used to keep Lefay’s 11-acre grounds green.

The green ethos chimes beautifully with the hotel’s magical Lake Garda location, which apart from being exceptionally easy on the eye, boasts an eco-system that’s entirely unique. The lake has its own microclimate, which means, unusually for northern Italy, that citrus groves are common and temperatures never drop too low. There’s plenty to do in the area, with the pretty village of Gargnano nestled on the lakeshore immediately below the hotel, and the magical André Heller Botanical Garden a few miles away in the small town of Gardone Riviera. However, you don’t really have to leave the hotel to find something to do. Not surprisingly for a hotel that has ‘spa’ in its name, Lefay boast a huge wellness centre complete with two saunas, a Jacuzzi and a salt water pool, as well as an tempting array of treatments. I tried the signature massage which uses a lemon-scented version of the hotel’s home grown olive oil and includes the sort of slow, sweeping strokes that send you to sleep. It was ridiculously relaxing, and followed with a 30 minute stint in the salt water pool, left my skin soft and scale-free.

Lefay is so chilled that most guests don’t bother changing out of the hotel-supplied dressing gown and flip flops during their stay. At breakfast and lunch, flocks of white towelling-clad guests could be seen tucking into the beautiful Italian fare, made all the better by the menu’s reliance on locally grown and organically produced ingredients. Thanks to the focus on wellbeing and the care for the environment, it’s impossible to leave Lefay without feeling a little bit healthier. If you do (as I did) get tempted by the cocktail bar and its fabulous line in Singapore Slings, a morning spent in the outdoor pool admiring the Alps is an unparalleled hangover cure. So too are the huge buffet breakfasts complete with local cured meat, cheese and moreish fresh bread. But wonderful though the food, the eco initiatives and the spa are, the real reason to go to Lefay is to relax.

With the nearest village (Gargnano), a ten-minute drive away, it takes real effort to leave the hotel grounds and explore. Then again, with plenty of spa treatments, walks galore and a pool with a view to enjoy, you don’t really need to.

For more information and to book, see the Lefay Resort and Spa’s site. For package deals including flights, check the Kuoni website.

Lefay Resort and Spa's warm microclimate, serene surroundings and green credentials, make for a luxurious, relaxing getaway...

Kim Dong Yoo's 'Elizabeth vs. Diana'

With Britain teetering on the brink of the Diamond Jubilee, the National Portrait Gallery’s latest show The Queen: Art and Image is aptly timed. The exhibition has arrived in London after a highly successful tour of Edinburgh, Belfast and Cardiff, and offers an intimate view of the life of Elizabeth Windsor. Alongside posed portraits and formal photographs, you can expect to see images of the Queen in a relaxed state without guarded body languages or forced smiles.

Tracing the Queen’s life from her ascension to the throne to the present day, the variety of images is impressive, highlighting societal shifts, and evolution in the art world, as well as key moments during Elizabeth’s reign. There are controversial occasions, as highlighted in Kim Dong Yoo’s striking ‘Elizabeth vs. Diana’. Although it’s more than a decade since Diana’s death, the Chinese whispers surrounding the Queen and her relationship with the former Princess of Wales add to the ambiguous theme of the collage piece; an enormous scarlet portrait of Elizabeth composed of tiny images of Diana.

Chris Levine combines old and new in ‘Lightness of Being’; taking a rather unsettling image of the Queen mid-blink in full majestic regalia and diluting the photograph using a hologram effect. The result is breathtaking, with the over-exposed colours creating an almost otherworldly radiance. Created in 2007, the work is displayed in a special black-out section of the gallery, further adding to its impact and allowing it to really stand alone.

No special effects are employed in Dorothy Wilding’s portrait of the monarch when she first took up office. Dating from 1952, the hand-coloured image allows the Queen’s young beauty to shine forth, exuding a charming shyness quite different from the self-assured woman we see in later years. A recent photograph by celebrity snapper Annie Leibovitz adopts a similar aesthetic; with deep, majestic tones capturing a very regal presence. The Queen is resplendent in fur, diamonds and a full length gown, seated in one of the imposing rooms of Buckingham Palace, gazing out of opened windows. It’s easy to se the distinction between the young Elizabeth and the one that has survived the highs and lows of adoration, criticism and condemnation.

There’s a sense of fun in the exhibition too – ‘The Queen’ by Justin Mortimer has cheeky undertones, appearing to show the monarch beheaded thanks to its abstract style. A clash of cultures and generations is evident in a photograph of the Queen meeting with the Spice Girls – an excellent informal addition to the exhibition. One single frame seems to demonstrate that neither really understands the other, but appreciates their mutual existence. Other exhibition highlights include portraits from contemporary artists including Lucian Freud, Andy Warhol, Gerhard Richter and a specially-commissioned image of the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh by Thomas Struth.

To see the Queen’s life spread out as visual timeline, it’s easy to become fond of a woman that is usually revered and seen as a formidable character. Paul Moorhouse, Curator of The Queen: Art and Image, and Twentieth-Century Curator at the National Portrait Gallery, says: ‘The Queen is the most represented individual in history – but she remains an enigma. All we really have are images. This exhibition explores the creation of The Queen’s public persona and the way such images reveals a world of changing ideas and values.’

The Queen is a ubiquitous presence in our lives, and yet many of us may feel that we don’t really know that much about a woman who has spent so much of her existence in the public eye. In the year of the Diamond Jubilee, the exhibition presents an opportunity to get to know Elizabeth II a little better, to step back and consider her role over the past 60 years with a critical eye – whether you’re a fervent anti-royalist or support the role of the monarchy in British society.

The Queen: Art and Image is showing at the National Portrait Gallery in London until October 21st 2012. For more information and to book tickets, see the NPG website.

The Queen is a ubiquitous presence in our lives, and yet many of us may feel that we don't really know that much about her...

So are all books really created equal?

According to new statistics, literary classics are being left on the shelf in favour of ‘chick lit’ and crime novels at our local libraries. So does this mean we’re no longer interested in the arguably more highbrow works of Dickens and Tolstoy? And what constitutes a ‘good read’ anyway?

I like to think I’m an equal opportunities reader, open to romance, drama, thrillers and the occasional autobiography, just so long as it’s packaged up in an eye-catching cover and ideally in the ‘3 for 2’ section of my local bookshop. Even so, I can’t help but be a little judgemental when I see an unashamedly girly, pastel pink book cover on a friend’s bedside table, or of the women hovering around Katie Price’s latest ‘autobiography’ at the supermarket.

In March 2007, a MLA survey of 4,000 readers found that almost half of those questioned said that reading classics makes you look more intelligent. It’s perhaps no surprise then that 40% of participants said that they had lied about having read certain books ‘just so they could join in with the conversation’. I’d be lying if I said that I’m not swayed by the press hype, five-star reviews, or compilations of the 1000 books to read before you die type lists – War and Peace remains proud but unopened on my bookshelf ­– but I believe that any book that makes you eager to turn the page is a good read, even if it is frothier than a Starbucks cappuccino, or with more plot holes than a slice of Swiss cheese.

In the last two months I’ve chosen to read three novels that have been turned into big screen films, and I’m eager to make a start on F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby before the latest Hollywood version, starring Leonardo DiCaprio and Carey Mulligan, hits the screens later this year. Why? Because if all my friends are talking about a book-to-film adaptation, or an actress I admire has landed the leading role, I want to know more. I want to be informed and entertained, so who cares if a 30-second film trailer was the reason I picked up the book off the shelf?

What constitutes a good read is down to the individual holding the book, and for me it’s all about capturing my imagination and transporting me to another world. The best books are those that make you feel like you’re right there, watching each chapter unfold, whether that’s being buried alive in a remote Swedish forest, or wearing the wrong outfit to a fundraiser in the Deep South in the 1960′s. When you’re so enthralled by a piece of fiction that you can’t wait to get home to read it, that’s a good book.

I may not reach for a ‘whodunit’ or the latest Marian Keyes novel the next time I’m at the library, but in an age where one in six adults in Britain struggles with literacy, surely we should be encouraging those who want to read, regardless of the subject matter. Crime fiction and ‘chick lit’ are ‘easy’ options (you probably won’t need a dictionary by your side to appreciate them) but if they encourage you to come back to the library or bookshop then that’s fantastic. The one thing that all fiction authors have in common is a desire to entertain you, to create that sense of escapism for ten minutes a day which lets you live in someone else’s shoes. Any book that can take its reader on a journey, harness their imagination and flex their vocabulary is fine by me, regardless of whether it’s Herman Melville, Stephenie Meyer or anything in between.

The trailer for The Great Gatsby – you could also read the book…

A feathered Alexander McQueen creation

Sashaying into the beautifully redesigned Fashion Gallery at the Victoria and Albert Museum, one may feel distinctly underdressed. The London museum’s latest exhibition, Ballgowns – British Glamour Since 1950 celebrates over sixty years of British fashion, with more than sixty ballgowns from the 1950s to the present day on display for visitors to gaze at longingly. Visiting the show is an occasion when wearing elbow-length gloves certainly wouldn’t be a faux pas.

Set over two floors, the ground floor charters the opulent garment’s journey from country house to red carpet, with over thirty ballgowns displayed, mainly from the Museum’s permanent collection, including designs from household names such as Julien MacDonald, Belville Sassoon and Bruce Oldfield. The exhibition houses pieces created for celebrities and royalty alike, and many of the gowns on show are as famous as their wearers; think Princess Diana’s intricate, pearl-encrusted ‘Elvis’ dress designed by Catherine Walker, or a fabulous Elizabeth Emanuel pink taffeta number worn by Joan Collins.

One should never underestimate the value of accessories, and alongside the gowns are displayed a selection of decadent eveningwear essentials, from sumptuous suede evening gloves and luxurious velvet shoes to statement evening bags, such as Lulu Guinness’ eye-catching Florist Basket.

Designed to look like a ballroom, the newly reopened mezzanine level of the gallery provides an effective showcase for contemporary evening gowns – all from British designers, of course. You can expect to see pieces from the crème de la crème of the fashion world, including Erdem, Giles Deacon, Jonathan Saunders and Christopher Kane. As the function of the ballgown has evolved, designers have pushed the boundaries with their extravagant creations; one such example is visionary designer Gareth Pugh’s incredible metallic leather chain mail dress, which was made especially for the exhibition. Another unusual material choice is that of Atsuko Kudo, whose gown initially seems to be made of lace; on further inspection, the figure-hugging frock is actually fashioned from latex, serving to demonstrate the versatility and innovation of today’s designers. And don’t miss the show-stopping, floor length feathered Alexander McQueen gown, which was worn by eccentric fashionista and muse Daphne Guinness to the Met Ball in 2011.

Other dresses created for familiar names include an asymmetrical, coral silk Roland Mouret gown for Maggie Gyllenhaal, and a recreation of the glamorous sparkling Swarovski crystal and silk piece that Beyoncé donned for a performance at the White House. Interestingly, this is one of the only modern gowns that looks as though it would comfortably fit a normal-sized, healthy woman.

Projections of the gowns are also displayed within four alcoves of the gallery’s magnificent domed interior. Showcasing images of the collection’s catalogue captured by fashion snapper David Hughes, the photographs display the range of surreal yet beautiful headdresses created to accompany each piece by prop designer Vincent Olivieri. Rather than utilising traditional materials, Olivieri has hand-crafted each piece with books, a nod to the Victoria & Albert Museum as a place of learning. If only school had involved sumptuous ballgowns and opulent accessories…

Ballgowns: British Glamour Since 1950 is showing at the Victoria & Albert Museum until January 6th 2013. For more information and to book tickets, see the V&A website.

The reopened mezzanine level provides an effective showcase for contemporary evening gowns - all from British designers, of course

Studio Nicholson's simple separates

Who is she?

Former menswear designer Nick Wakeman launched her brand Studio Nicholson in 2010 to fill the niche in the womenswear market for classic clothes, inspired by the core values of beautiful tailored modern menswear. The Studio Nicholson girl? Wakeman’s muses are contemporary and historic style icons such as Gaia Repossi and Katherine Hepburn.

The Look?

Subtlety at its absolute finest. Studio Nicholson use exquisite fabrics in all of their garments, letting them shine through without being overshadowed by complicated design. As with the very best menswear, Wakeman’s garments are all about the details; hidden inside her understated, luxurious pieces are meticulously bound seams, which add to the high level of quality maintained throughout each Studio Nicholson collection.

The design process behind each piece has its roots in the principles of menswear, but that doesn’t result in an androgynous silhouette. Ideas are adapted so that the fit is tailored the female form, and each collection nods to the trends of that season to ensure it stays up-to-date. The Spring/Summer 2012 offering is awash with subtle tones, from soft grey and beige shades to a palette of warm blues from navy to chambray. Each and every piece in the collection feels like a future classic – and an integral part of the perfect capusule wardrobe; there’s an air of effortless practicality about Studio Nicholson that ensures that these are items that can be dressed up or down with ease.

The Buzz?

Studio Nicholson’s affordable designs regularly feature in get-the-look pieces in the Sunday style supplements of major newspapers including The Times, The Observer and The Independent. Their garments have also appeared in fashion bibles such as Vogue, Elle and Harpers Bazaar.

Where to Buy?

Studio Nicholson is stocked in a whole host of global locations. Here in Europe you can shop their considered garments in locations including London, Bristol and Amsterdam. Check out the full stockist list to find a store near you. The brand is also available to buy online on Young British Designers.

For more information, see the Studio Nicholson website, you can also like the brand on Facebook or follow on Twitter @StudioNicholson.

There's an air of effortless practicality about Studio Nicholson that ensures that any of the pieces can be dressed up or down with ease...

Hypnotherapy can improve mental health

When you first think of hypnotherapy, images of sinister psychiatrists manipulating their patients to gain control over their minds may occur. Far from its Rasputin-like image, it’s actually a highly useful process that harnesses the power of our subconscious minds for improved mental and physical health.

So What’s Hypnotherapy Then?

Hypnosis comes from the Greek word hypnos, meaning “to sleep,” and is a form of guided relaxation. In a typical hypnotherapy session, your hypnotherapist will begin by addressing your concerns and asking what exactly you’re aiming to improve. Then, you will be asked to sit or lie in a comfortable position and close your eyes. Once you are completely relaxed, you will be guided through various scenarios using intense concentration to achieve a heightened state of awareness, or trance. The reason this works is because when the mind is in a deeply relaxed state, its responsiveness to ideas is significantly heightened. Our waking conscious, which is responsible for inhibitions, is dulled and our subconscious is allowed to respond properly.

For example, if you suffer from severe anxiety, the hypnotherapist might ask you to picture yourself in a peaceful garden or on the beach. Then, they will talk about your anxiety and affirm that you no longer suffer from it – you are a relaxed, easy-going individual. You will remain in this state for 45 minutes to one hour until the therapist asks you to slowly return to your waking state. The feeling once you awake is similar to waking up from a pleasant nap; you should feel deeply relaxed and collected.

Why Should I Try Hypnotherapy?

It may all seem quite Freudian at first, the benefits of hypnotherapy mean that it’s worth giving it a try. Many writers, actors and artists commonly use this method to retrain their waking conscious, boost creativity and unblock energy. However, its benefits extend beyond the arts; you can retrain your mind to beat addiction, depression, stress, anger, and it can even be used to aid weight loss. It is a fantastic way to rid yourself of phobias, fears and anxiety.

If you experience any of these common problems, turning to hypnotherapy is a gentle, drug-free method devoid of negative side effects. While a qualified hypnotherapist is your best bet, those on a budget can try downloading free hypnosis sessions which are available online. Be aware that multiple sessions are required in order to see results, but if you stick with it, you will begin to notice yourself becoming a calmer, more adaptable person.

My first experience with hypnotherapy left me giggling throughout the whole session, much to my embarrassment; it seemed too ridiculous to actually work. Fortunately, my therapist was a patient person who encouraged me to try the process again. “If you don’t ‘let yourself go’ and continue to hold on to your waking state, it won’t work. You have to embrace it, even if you think it’s stupid at first,” he said.

I tried it again and allowed myself to ‘let go.’ And it worked. Regular practice has even allowed me to master my state of awareness. For example, if I suddenly feel depressed or anxious, I can stop and control myself. Before hypnotherapy, this would never have been possible. We could all use a little extra dose of zen, so why not give it a try?

Try out a little hypnotherapy on yourself…

Luxe natural skincare meets high-tech

It’s very rare that I’ll brave being seen in public without a scrap of make-up on, particularly after a facial when there can be some post-scrub, mask and massage blotchiness. But having put my face in the hands of a skilful beauty therapist at the Mandarin Oriental spa in Knightsbridge to experience their new anti-ageing treatment, the Aromatherapy Associates Aroma Lift Facial, I’ve found the unquestionable exception.

Bedecked with delicate orchids, the surroundings of the Knightsbridge hotel’s spa are an apt setting for the luxury natural skincare company, but the twist is that this facial brings electric micro-currents to the party to amp up (excuse the pun) the toning and tightening effects.

The treatment starts with a standard cleanse, followed by the application of an exfoliating mask packed with natural pineapple and passionflower acids to gently slough away dead skin cells so that the potions and lotions which follow can penetrate skin more effectively. Next comes Aromathrapy Associates’ firming serum which allows the fine rods that conduct the current to glide over easily over the skin while the charge pushes it deep into the top layers where it tightens and plumps. Unlike old-school machines that use electric currents, this one won’t cause skin to tingle; instead it feels cooling and with the therapist’s fairy-light touch, gently calming.

There’s a trio of different movements employed using the rods: the first two work in lines over the skin to boost circulation and increase radiance, then to encourage the lymph glands to drain, de-puffing the contours of the face. The final movement is aimed at ‘lifting’ the muscle – think pinching the fattier parts of your face gently between two chopsticks and you wont be too far off the mark. A final application of hydrating gel manually massaged in leaves skin feeling warm and glowing but icy to touch – the symbiotic effects of simultaneous radiance boosting and complexion calming. And a cursory glance in the mirror reveals that my complexion looks perfectly plump and even, with not a fine dehydration line in sight.

It’s not the most pampering experience, although a post-facial chill out in the relaxation room with fragrant jasmine tea and ginger oat biscuits so good I bagged one to eat later, certainly elevate the indulgent element. Facing the street and journey home, I skipped the usual touch-up with foundation and cream blush in favour my complexion’s new found natural perfection.

At home, my flatmate tells me I look like I’ve had a week of great sleep (take note anyone with a wedding dress or big night out on the cards) and 24 hours later I was amazed at the difference – no lines around my eyes, all signs of dark circles banished, plus lifted and more defined cheekbones. Sometimes the best things come to those who wait…

For more information and to book, see The Mandarin Oriental’s website, or check on the Aromatherapy Associates site for treatments near you.

Bedecked with orchids, the surroundings of the Mandarin Oriental's spa are an apt setting for the luxury natural skincare company

Are you crazy for fruit prints this season?

Every time London Fashion Week approaches, an army of (even more than usual) gazelle like women, clad head to toe in designer garb and wielding super skinny lattes parade across the city and I inwardly groan. Another chance to dictate what’s hot and what’s not this season – peasants, take note!

I love clothes just as much as the next woman, I have enough of them to wear in rotation to last me for three months without doing any laundry for goodness sake, but so many people take it too far. The whole notion of ‘trends’, in my opinion, is ridiculous. So what, every few months the chosen ones at various designer houses create new collections, proffer these to Anna Wintour and depending on whether she approves, share them with the rest of the world? Well, at least that’s what I could gather from The September Issue, a horrifying and bland, yet strangely compulsive film if ever I’ve seen one.

People are then expected to buy this advice and go and purchase these ‘must have’ items…right, because your life is really going to be so much more fulfilled for buying that super ethnic boho dress – OMG what, that’s totally Sienna Miller right? Um no, like three years ago…

Yet this is merely one part of the cycle, one which is ongoing and relentless, apparently dictating what’s acceptable to wear and what is not. To be seen in last season’s shoes is a heinous crime, apparently, but where is this really applicable apart from in The Devil Wears Prada or perhaps at the London College of Fashion?

There is nothing wrong with taking inspiration from the latest trends, but to be dictated by them is plain sad, and an example of a whole bunch of insecurity and conformity. Not wearing something because it’s not in the latest magazines is ridiculous, but perhaps true of many people lacking the confidence to branch out.

If by this point you’re turning up your nose in disdain and shaking your head in disagreement, let me just assure you (hopefully without sounding like Samantha Brick) that I am not some Croc-sporting, three quarter length combat strutting, neon body warmer wearing fashion disaster. I wear what I want, taking inspiration from the things and styles which interest me, and by using my common sense – for example Uggs are slippers, white trousers are never a good idea and three quarter length leggings are never flattering.

Fashion should be fun and not taken so seriously. Yes, expert craftsmanship and tailoring should always be appreciated, but being able to afford designer clothing does not make you stylish by default; some of the wealthiest people are often the most sartorially-challenged

Sure, flick through the latest clothes catalogues, I mean women’s magazines, if your heart desires; just don’t feel the need to spend your last few pounds on your ‘fashion bible’ as opposed to a good meal. Painfully thin is not cool, despite what we’ve been told, and neither is mindless obedience.

Anna Wintour knows colour blocking. Or does she? Does anyone? Does it matter?!

A rally in Moscow's Chistye Prudy square

Not been paying attention to the news this week? We’ve helpfully rounded up the need-to-know events making the headlines in Europe of late…

Putin sworn in as president amidst protests

It was another long holiday weekend for Russia, with Vladimir Putin’s inauguration ceremony scheduled for Monday 7 and the celebrations for Victory Day the following Wednesday. Rather than the relaxing holiday it might have been, in Moscow, anti-Putin protests led to clashes with the police, with around 250 people being detained on the Sunday. Protests continued the following day, as Putin was sworn in as President of the Russian Federation and launched his third term with lavish celebrations. However, around 100 protesters were detained and riot police are reported to have stormed the Jean-Jacques cafe, one of the opposition party’s favoured places in the city.

On Tuesday 8, former President Dmitry Medvedev was appointed Prime Minister; while the State Duma ratified his appointment, protesters continued with their demonstrations. The next day, celebrations for the victory of the USSR over Nazi Germany in World War II took place across the country, and a big military parade in Moscow was attended by Putin; meanwhile, protestors staged a Communist rally for Victory Day. On Friday 11, the anti-Putin movement set up a camp in Moscow’s Chistye Prudy square by the statue of Kazakh poet Abai. #оццупайабай (#occupyabai) started trending on Twitter shortly after this. Read more: Riots shake central Moscow (from Russia Beyond the Headlines)

Hollande wins French presidency

On Sunday 6, François Hollande won the second round of elections in France, beating outgoing president Nicolas Sarkozy. The 57-year-old leader of the Socialist Party, who has portrayed himself as “Mr Normal” throughout the electoral campaign, brought the left back to power after 17 years by winning 51.7% of the vote. His election seemed to spell trouble for German Chancellor Angela Merkel, who had openly supported Sarkozy and considered him a reliable partner in her plans to enforce austerity measures in the Eurozone. The newly-elected president might hinder the continuation of this process, if he fulfils his promise to push for a renegotiation of the Eurozone’s fiscal pact. Merkel, however, was among the first to call Hollande to congratulate him on his victory and invited him to Berlin. It was announced on Friday 11 that Hollande’s first visit abroad will be to Germany, shortly after his inauguration on May 15. Read more: Slideshow: French presidential second round in Saint Denis (from RFI)

Greece – party leaders fail to form government

After the shocking results of the general elections which took place on Sunday 6 and saw neo-Nazi party Golden Dawn gaining seats in parliament, Greece is in political turmoil as its parties fail to come to an agreement and form a coalition. Centre-right party New Democracy, led by Antonis Samaras, was the most popular choice amongst voters, and yet managed to win only 18% of the vote; in previous elections the party gained 33.5% of votes. On Monday 7, Samaras announced that he had been unable to form a coalition, despite negotiations with all of the other parties aside from Golden Dawn.

The responsibility of forming a coalition then passed on to Alexis Tsipras, who gained 16.78% of the votes with left-wing coalition party Syriza. Despite further talks, Tsipras also failed to form a coalition with other parties, and the responsibility passed to Evangelis Venizelos, leader of Greek socialist party PASOK, which only won a 13.2% share of votes. As of Friday 11, the chances that Venizelos will be able to form a government appear to be very slim, according to observers. It is crucial that Greece stabilises its political situation quickly, as the form of the government is likely to determine the country’s future relationship with the EU; the exit of Greece from the Eurozone is increasingly becoming a concrete possibility. Read more: Germany tells Greece not to stray if it wants cash (from Ekathimerini)

Yulia Timoshenko ends hunger strike

Former Ukrainian Prime Minister Yulia Timoshenko has ended her hunger strike, which she initiated to protest against her treatment in jail. Timoshenko is serving time in prison for abuse of power, and claims that her imprisonment is politically motivated and that she is the victim of a plot organised by current President and rival Viktor Yanukovich. In the past few months her health has been deteriorating, and photos were recently released showing Timoshenko covered in bruises. According to Timoshenko, she was beaten by prison guards, after she refused to be taken to hospital, where she was should have received treatment for severe and chronic back pain. Timoshenko had insisted on being treated in a clinic in Germany, and ended the hunger strike (having lost an alleged 22 pounds) after a compromise was reached: she was transferred to a hospital in the Ukraine for treatment under the supervision of German doctors. Read more: As Tymoshenko ends her hunger strike, her sympathetic followers do so also (from Kyiv Post)

Dissatisfied Italians vote in local elections

On Sunday 6 and Monday 7, local elections took place in Italy, where the austerity measures of the “technocratic government” led by Prime Minister Mario Monti continue to take their toll on Italian families. The low turn-out demonstrated the Italians’ feeling of apathy at their situation, and the results of the elections showed the population’s clear dissatisfaction with Italy’s traditional parties. After a series of scandals that appear to have tainted the reputation of former Prime Minister and leader of the Party of Liberty Silvio Berlusconi, and destroyed the credibility of the right-wing party Northern League, voters decided to punish mainstream politicians. The political movement Cinque Stelle, formed by comedian-turned-politician Beppe Grillo, and the Italy of Values party, led by Mani Pulite prosecutor Antonio di Pietro, fared surprisingly well. Read more: Get money out of politics (from Beppe Grillo’s Blog)

Footage of protests in Moscow