This summer is set to be about floral dresses in all lengths, from mini and maxi, oversized sunglasses, gladiator sandals and sexy swimwear, by all accounts. These items should be your mainstay for the season, and you can find great examples of them here for more inspiration. If you’re looking for something a bit more out of the ordinary, here are some of the season’s hottest trends: Big brights - whether it’s coral,...

A large proportion of Brits could do with getting the marigolds on and giving their kitchen surfaces a good going-over more often, according to a recent survey. The Sun reports that the poll, carried out by LimeLite, revealed that more than half (53 per cent) of people regularly leave their washing up overnight for the following day, while more than a third only give their kitchen a thorough going-over once a year. Even worse, one in ten...

The government has taken a step closer to reaching an agreement with the insurance industry on flood protection, after householders were left wondering if their properties would be insurable when the current arrangement expires next year. The first proposal being considered by the government is from the Association of British Insurers (ABI), which recommends that all homes are covered with a cap on the annual premium they pay, with any...

Plans to introduce the 20 per cent rate of VAT on static caravans will have a damaging effect on jobs in Northern Ireland, a local politician has claimed. East Londonderry MP Gregory Campbell said the tax, announced in March’s Budget by chancellor George Osborne and due to come into effect on October 1st, is expected to lead to a dramatic decrease in sales. This is because the extra cost will be passed on to consumers, who already...

With the Diamond Jubilee and the Olympics both taking place in London this summer, it’s understandable that many ladies are looking to get their styles prepared ahead of time. Here are some of the hottest looks going at the moment, and how to get them: Vintage vixen – Brick Lane is the place to go for vintage clothing, which includes brogues, big floral and gingham dresses, hair accessories like fascinators and trilby hats....

Ladies who have trouble getting into their jeans can rest a little easier, after Anchorman actress Christina Applegate admitted that she still wears maternity jeans – even 14 months after the birth of her daughter Sadie. The 40-year-old, who played Veronica Corningstone in the 2004 comedy classic, told US Weekly that the jeans are just “so comfortable” that she can’t bear to part with them. In one of the...

Rural criminals have a new enemy in Hertfordshire – bobbies on quad bikes! Honda has loaned a quad to the Buntingford Safer Neighbourhood Team for one year, the Hertfordshire Mercury reports, and it has been painted in the force’s livery and will be used in special operations where other vehicles are less suitable. East Herts Council has provided special protective clothing that officers can wear when riding the bike, while...