Marks & Spencer is having a real fashion moment again, they are back in the limelight and firmly on the 'first stop' list when you want affordable pieces that look polished and last. From elevated basics to trend-led style, M&S has quietly become the go-to destination for stylish, wearable clothes that work in real life (and real wardrobes).

​In midlife we want flattering fits, good fabrics, sensible sizing and prices that don’t make you want to run away, all without sacrificing style. Which is why M&S jeans in particular have become such a reliable choice, whether you’re after a classic straight leg, a modern wide leg, or that elusive perfect pair you can dress up or down on repeat.  They come in a vast range of sizes from 6 to 24 and leg lengths extra short, short/petite, regular and long, plus lots of different styles and colours.

With puppy life a bit chaotic right now, I decided I needed a winter denim refresh but it wasn't going to be possible to do a long (and time-consuming) try-on instore so I placed an online order and I am sharing a review of my favourite and recommended M&S jeans with you here. 

All jeans styled throughout with a white t-shirt also from Marks & Spencer.  

Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to mean a three-course meal in a busy restaurant (who have put their prices up for that weekend only) or a gift you don’t really need.  I think the best kind of romantic day is one that creates memories, a shared experience and allows time to connect whilst having fun. 

If you fancy swapping chocolate and over-priced flowers for exercise, here are some simple, fun, very doable active date ideas for couples - things like tennis, padel, golf and other outdoor activities you can tailor to your fitness level, budget and confidence.  

​This blog post contains paid for links.

We kicked off the new year with the perfect antidote to a quiet, grey January, a relaxed and very special home dining experience. If you’re looking for a Private Chef in Marlow experience that feels personal and indulgent, Pinar’s Culinary Studio offers exactly that, bringing restaurant-quality dining (and cookery lessons) into your own kitchen.
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After a busy few weeks and returning from our family ski trip, it was such a treat to slow life down and enjoy time together at home. With no cooking, no washing up and no rushing out to a restaurant, we were able to relax properly.  We chatted about our New Year in the Alps and we started making plans for the year ahead. With my 60th birthday in December, I’m very much in planning mode, a private chef experience felt like the perfect way to start the year.  And how lucky am I to be able to share it with my husband, our children and their partners.

One of the things I loved most about this experience was how easy it felt from start to finish. From planning the menu to the final course being served, Pinar and her very able assistant Can took care of every detail, allowing us to enjoy the evening exactly as we wanted to - it was relaxed, unrushed and focused on good food and great conversation as well as lots of laughter.  And the best bit, I didn't have to keep leaving the table to look after everyone, Pinar was quietly in the background looking after me too.

​Here are a few more details about our evening, and why I’d wholeheartedly recommend a private chef experience at home especially if you have a special occasion coming up.

This is a gifted collaboration.