In 2019, the DM slide is a classic move. Done properly, it’s a shortcut to intimacy with someone and an ideal way to escalate banter for the purposes of dating, friendship or flirting. Done badly, it’s an invasion of privacy.

A DM slide is the act of greasing into someone’s Direct Messages inbox on Twitter or Instagram with the intention of having some private banter. It’s a way to take an otherwise public conversation discreetly into one-on-one territory. Ordinarily, it happens between two people who follow each other, so you should be relatively protected from total strangers. Except, of course, for any brave souls who leave their DMs open, meaning the approach could come from literally anyone.

It’s a sacred space, the social media DM inbox, so the DM slide must be done with tact, respect and aplomb. Unfortunately, many DM sliders fail in their pursuit to be smooth – and come across as creepy, sleazy or inappropriate. The perpetrator of a bad DM slide tends to misjudge their welcomeness in a person’s inbox, disrespect someone’s personal boundaries or seek to turn something platonic into romance when the feeling is not reciprocated. It’s a delicate, fraught move that can go wrong in many ways.

Thankfully, tech journalist and author of the new book Digital Etiquette, Victoria Turk is here with some expert guidance on the matter of sliding into one’s DMs. Here, she takes us through the new rules. Before slinking into someone’s inbox, regard them carefully and proceed with caution.

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Gone are the days when your accessories played second fiddle to your outfit; in the past few years, thanks to a host of cult labels, a statement-making heel or a choice It bag has become the real star of the show. And for spring – a season that always makes us feel a little playful in the wardrobe department – we're spoiled for choice.

Whether it's the Carrie-approved '00s (think naked heels and shoulder bags) or natural materials like bamboo and rattan, there is a plethora of accessories trends to dip your toe into this season. Without further ado, meet SS19's standout accessories, from turbo-charged sandals to larger-than-life sunglasses.

'00s, Natch

With the reissue of iconic '00s It bags – from Fendi's Baguette to Dior's Saddle – 2019 has seen the return of city-slickin' slinky accessories fit for Carrie Bradshaw. Cult label Staud's first foray into footwear this year saw it revive such retro shapes as the naked heel (all straps and not much else), the thong sandal (very Ibiza 2001) and the wedge mule. This season we're donning nothing more than a silk slip dress and some coquettish kitten heels – Charlotte Olympia's leopard pair has extra sex appeal – tucking our bag under our arm, and heading out into the night. Cocktails are on us.

Zara Brown Leather Mules, £39.99, available at Zara; Zara Strappy Leather Sandals, £55.99, available at Zara; Charlotte Olympia Drew Mules, £470, available at Charlotte Olympia; Topshop Nylon Shoulder Bag, £20, available at Topshop.

Take A Hike!

The popularity of Grenson's Nannette signalled a shift towards the practical last year, with 12-eyelet, rubber-soled, heavy-duty boots kicking their way to the top of our footwear collection. Don't think the utilitarian trend has gone off-piste this season, though. Belt bags are as practical as ever (we couldn't get through festival season without one), turbo-charged sandals are replacing our stomping boots – Stella McCartney's logo pair is our favourite – and the rainproof hat is making umbrellas redundant, as seen at Ganni and Rejina Pyo. Time to explore.

Stella McCartney Logo Sandals, £365, available at Net-A-Porter; Maison Michel PVC Bucket Hat, £380, available at Browns; Weekday Mini Waist Bag, £20, available at Weekday.

Loud & Clear

Everyone from Vetements to Balmain, Chanel to Fendi is making themselves crystal clear this season. Maybe social media is making showoffs of us all, encouraging us to flaunt our prized possessions in see-through totes like this Versace number (Staud does a host of great PVC bags, too). Or maybe it's the kitschiness of the material that we're embracing; from Simone Rocha's childlike headband to Zara's beaded bag, accessories that we would have worn in primary school are reigning supreme. Either way, transparency is key.

Versace PVC Tote Bag, £610, available at Browns; Zara Transparent Bag, £49.99, available at Zara; Simone Rocha PVC Bead Headband, £350, available at Net-A-Porter.

Natural Woman

There's been a move towards natural fabrications over the past few seasons, whether it's retro materials like rattan and bamboo, or sculptural pieces made of wood carved into graphic shapes. Jacquemus (the king of resort wear) has championed straw bags for some time, and this statement-making beach bag is spring/summer perfection. Cult Gaia has led the pack when it comes to earthy materials in arty forms, and this new-season beaded bag is as cute as they come.

Topshop Wooden Tote Bag, £32, available at Topshop; Cult Gaia Mini Bamboo Tote, £125, available at Net-A-Porter; Jacquemus Straw and Leather Bag, £320, available at Browns.

Super Size Me

Teeny-tiny accessories may have been all the rage last year but it's 2019 now and we're taking up space. Gone are the impractical microbags that barely fit your purse; gone, too, are the comically small microshades that only Bella Hadid could really pull off. In their place? XXL everything! Big up the totes you could climb into – like this playful Rejina Pyo number – stacked platforms that pay homage to glam rock, and sunnies so big they hide a multitude of sins. This spring, go big or go home.

Gucci Sunglasses, £270, available at Net-A-Porter; Alexachung Sunglasses, £149, available at Alexachung; Marni Sunglasses, available soon; Longchamp Sunglasses, £145, available at Longchamp; Topshop High Clog Sandals, £49, available at Topshop; Rejina Pyo Satin Tote, £265, available at Net-A-Porter.

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Welcome to It’s Lit – a series of discussions about books. Join us every month to find out who’s reading what.

Debut author Sara Collins is quick to correct herself when she shows us around "the library" in her new house. "It’s a book room, not a library – that sounds far too grand," she laughs. The room was the first to be decorated when she moved there earlier this year. "It doesn’t feel like home without my books," she says.

Sara was a lawyer for 17 years before she gave her first love – creative writing – a proper go. She hadn’t even finished her second year at Cambridge University when she submitted a "very rough" manuscript to the Lucy Cavendish Prize, where it was shortlisted. Several drafts later, that gothic page-turner, The Confessions of Frannie Langton, is one of the most talked-about titles of 2019. Out this month, Frannie, as Sara affectionately calls it, is a Guardian Debut Novelist Pick, Woman’s Hour Book to Watch and has already been optioned for television. With the end of a busy press tour almost in sight, Sara has begun working on her second book: "It’s about a cult but that’s all I can really tell you because that’s all I know myself," she laughs.

An avid reader since childhood, we visited Sara at her Chiswick home to find out more about the books that shaped her love of writing, and reading. "Reading should be enjoyable, it shouldn’t feel like you’re having to do it for your own good. You can lose yourself in well regarded, canonical books but you can also do that with bestsellers – there shouldn’t be any rules."

What are you reading right now?

I just started Toni Morrison’s collection A Mouth Full of Blood; I’m only three pages in and I already think it’s amazing. I’m in a nonfiction phase at the moment; I just finished André Aciman’s Alibis, which is about his experience as an immigrant but also looks at memory, longing and nostalgia. He writes beautifully.

How do you find out about what to read next?

I read The Guardian reviews and have done for a while. There are some authors I will always buy, like Toni, Margaret Atwood, Jennifer Egan, Sarah Waters, Maggie O’Farrell, Sadie Jones, Elizabeth Strout, Alice Munro – there are so many. I’m always on the lookout for those writers who make me want to order their backlist on Amazon: authors who will forever be an auto-buy for me.

Other than Amazon, where do you buy your books? Do you have a favourite bookshop?

I love finding new bookshops in London, it’s one of my favourite things about the city – they all have such distinct characters. My local is Waterstones; I can never walk past without stopping in and buying something. I really love Foyles because it’s massive and has everything I’ve ever looked for but I also love the sense of history and intimacy you get at somewhere like Hatchards. Size and convenience is important but I also like the tradition of bookselling going back hundreds of years.

What do you use as a bookmark?

Anything to hand: receipts, bills, postcards…but I also challenge myself to do without one and remember what page I was on. I feel like it’s very civilised to use a bookmark, it’s aspirational! I used to have this idea that all books were mystical and should be kept pristine but now I don’t mind abusing them – they’re just books to me now. I think a book looks better when it’s been beaten up.

Do you have a Kindle?

Yes. People can be snobby about it but it’s so convenient for holidays and travelling. If it’s a book I want to treasure though, I have to have a hard copy of it.

When and where do you read?

Anywhere, at any time I have a spare moment – standing in line, on the Tube, waiting at the doctor’s office – the only place I don’t read is the car, or funnily enough in the bath. I don’t know why. If I’m reading on the move I do find it’s easier to have the Kindle or, I confess, sometimes it’s my phone because if I have 10 minutes I’ll just dip into something, especially essays. I read everywhere I can – it’s my comfort object I suppose, having a book or my Kindle with me. It just takes me away from where I am.

What are three books you would recommend to a stranger?

It changes all the time but at the moment I would desperately press upon anyone I came across Giovanni’s Room by James Baldwin. I’ve always read his nonfiction and I was actually always a bit apprehensive about reading his novels because I thought they’d be too message-heavy but Giovanni’s Room is a perfect, self-contained, beautiful love story. It’s one of the best love stories I’ve ever read, albeit a tragic one, but maybe tragic love stories are the best love stories? I’d also recommend absolutely anything by Margaret Atwood, I couldn’t pick one. And then, to round out the list, probably Zora Neale Hurston’s Their Eyes Were Watching God, which I have a sort of strange relationship with because I think I like it less as an adult than I did when I first read it as a teenager. But I still feel strongly enough about it and her to recommend it. Can I have Beloved by Toni Morrison too? It was one of the most formative books for me. I have several editions of it.

What other books did you read in your formative years?

I grew up on a small island so there wasn’t always a lot to read and I exhausted everything our library had. Books were really precious because I had to go to a lot of effort to get them, there was no Amazon or Kindle back then. I had lots and lots of teenage obsessions and I would just read around them. I must confess, I was really into regency romances! I think they actually stood me in good stead though because I’ve now written a quite literary novel about the regency. I also loved the Sweet Valley High and Nancy Drew books. Apart from those though, that are very age-specific, I don’t think my tastes have changed much. I loved the classics – Jane Austen and the Brontës – then I discovered Toni Morrison, Zora Neale Hurston and Alice Walker. I was also obsessed with Helter Skelter, about the Charles Manson cult, and I had a Stephen King phase. I think he’s massively underrated, he’s a phenomenal writer. The short stories he [King] wrote as Richard Bachman were great.

Is there a book you’ve read more than once?

I used to do that a lot in my teens and my 20s; I reread Wuthering Heights once a year. I’m a sucker for a tragic love story.

I feel this sense of nostalgia for the way I used to read because since writing a book I read very critically. I like to say I do autopsies of books now, and you can’t have the same immersive experience when you’re looking for the tricks and how they’re done. As soon as you start it, everything becomes something to study so I don’t come back to books anymore because I don’t want them to lose their magic.

Were there any books you read during the writing of your book that you think may have influenced it?

The one in particular that I kind of read by accident while I was writing my book that really heavily informed it was Frankenstein. I was reading a lot of gothic stuff at the time of writing my book to become imbued with the language and the evocative nature of the writing. The other one I did that with was Rebecca; I was just trying to get that sense of how vivid and terrifying everything was.

The plot is quite complicated – how did you keep track of all the different threads when you were writing it?

I had pieces of paper stuck all over the walls, which for an obsessively tidy person drove me mad. I also had an 80-page spreadsheet with a scene-by-scene breakdown that was colour-coded so I knew at a glance what appeared where and whether it was well balanced. I didn’t start like that but when I had a lot of material I had to organise it somehow and the spreadsheet really helped. My spreadsheet was so beautiful, I wish someone had seen it!

Were you surprised by the process?

I think there’s this sort of romantic idea of a novelist that you see on screen; you sit in front of an old-fashioned typewriter and the novel comes out from beginning to end in exactly the form it’s published in. But it’s a job almost like any other and actually there’s nuts and bolts that are sometimes quite boring and tedious to put together. A lot of it is not magic, it’s just forcing yourself to come up with ideas and make them work because you don’t have another choice and you’ve got a deadline to make.

Have you ever been part of a book club?

Yes, I really miss mine – it was back in the Caribbean with a group of mums from my children’s school. It was more about friendship and wine but I came across some really good books too; it’s where I discovered Gone Girl and Gillian Flynn, who is definitely one of my favourite authors. I’m a huge fan of psychological thrillers and she writes about angry, "bad" women so well. I’m trying to find a book club here because I think it’s so great to talk about what you’re reading and I love reading absolutely everything.

Do you read poetry?

I love poetry. Ocean Vuong is another one of my auto-buy authors. I keep recommending his Night Sky With Exit Wounds to everyone; I can’t shout loud enough about it. I also read Mary Oliver every morning when I was writing Frannie, and Kei Miller. He’s a Jamaican poet who wrote about a cartographer having a conversation with a Rastafarian; it’s truly amazing stuff. Those three are my recommendations. I really do love poetry but unfortunately we’re taught it in a way that doesn’t make it accessible. I have quite a complicated relationship with what’s considered "classical poetry" but then someone like Ocean Vuong comes along, and he’s doing something so exciting that you can’t help but get caught up in it. It’s the same with Kei Miller, I think.

Is there a book you give as a gift?

I generally give books as gifts more to kids than adults, which is weird. I gave each of my children To Kill A Mockingbird, Pride and Prejudice and The Handmaid’s Tale at a certain time, and I feel like those are indicative of the stages of a woman’s education in a way.

Are there any magazines you’re faithful to?

I’m really unfaithful to my magazines – I frequently dip in and out of different ones! I regularly read Vanity Fair for their longform profiles and essays, The New Yorker and "The Art of Fiction" bits in The Paris Review. Before I was a published author I would read "The Art of Fiction" with authors I loved in the same way other people might read about football players. It was my fangirl moment.

Have you had any fangirl moments since writing your book?

Yes, actually it was just before I’d finished writing it, I was coming back from Cambridge from my creative writing class and I was struggling to get the train door open. A woman really kindly came by and helped me to get on the train and I blurted out: "Oh my god, you’re Ali Smith!" She was really taken aback, and I think she did say: "How did you recognise me?" I told her I was a huge fan of hers and I knew what her author photo looked like and we had a good laugh about it. Now I like to say that Ali Smith has opened doors for me. I took it as a good sign.

Sara’s Reading List

A Mouth Full of Blood by Toni Morrison
Alibis: Essays on Elsewhere by André Aciman
Giovanni’s Room by James Baldwin
Their Eyes Were Watching God by Zora Neale Hurston
Beloved by Toni Morrison
The Colour Purple by Alice Walker
Helter Skelter: The True Story of the Manson Murders by Curt Gentry and Vincent Bugliosi
The Bachman Books by Stephen King
Wuthering Heights by Emily Brontë
Frankenstein by Mary Shelley
Rebecca by Daphne du Maurier
Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn
Night Sky With Exit Wounds by Ocean Vuong
The Cartographer Tries to Map a Way to Zion by Kei Miller
To Kill A Mockingbird by Harper Lee
Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen
The Handmaid’s Tale by Margaret Atwood

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Living the small space lifestyle is an ongoing battle while trying to do more with less. Sometimes, after an exhaustive search, we strike the furniture jackpot with a piece that epitomises our spacial, stylistic and budgetary trifecta. But just because these home buys feel like a rarity, that doesn't mean that there aren't options out there. It's a matter of finding the time to hunt them down.

If turning small space furniture hunting into a full-time job isn't on the cards right now, don't sweat it — because we've got you and your tiny apartment's back. We're hula-hooping our way through the best buys in budget, size and statement-making — from chic nesting tables to decorative room dividers, sleek shelving, comfy ottomans with secret storage, and even a loveseat. Scroll on for the under £150 furniture finds that will maximise tight spaces while keeping minimalism and style top of mind — so you can easily shop, decorate and relax without ever leaving your tiny abode (or quitting your day job).

At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.

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It's a tale as old as hair color: Many years, dozens of touch-up appointments, several rounds of Olaplex, and you’ve finally made the decision to go back to your natural hair colour. Not that the latest trendy shade of blonde hasn't been fun, but at a certain point the expense and damage gets old, especially when your hair is naturally dark brown or black.

But before you call your colourist and drop the big news, there are a few things to prepare yourself for ahead of the appointment. After years of pledging your allegiance to peroxide — whether it's just highlights or a full bleach-and-tone — you’ve probably forgotten about the treatments that make brunette hair shine the brightest, from gloss touch-ups to at-home remedies. Don't stress, we tapped the pros to answer all your burning brunette questions before you ditch your blonde hair for good, ahead.

There's A Right & Wrong Time To Go Brunette, But It's Not Seasonal

There's a myth floating around that changing your hair should follow the changing seasons. For example, it's best to blonder in the summer and darker in the winter. However, most colourists will agree that this is an outdated motto. "When you’re ready, you’re ready," says Olivia Casanova, colourist at IGK SoHo salon.

But that's not to say timing isn't important. Nikki Lee, a seasoned colourist and co-owner of L.A.'s Nine Zero One salon, tells her clients to avoid any tropical trips after your dye job. She stresses that going from blonde to brunette can take several appointments, and exposing your newly dyed hair to the sun or ocean water could potentially affect its vibrancy.

"Filling The Colour" Is Crucial

Going brunette will typically consists of three or more steps, says Casanova, each of which could take anywhere from 10 to 40 minutes. The first step? Fill the hair. "Filling" means restoring the warm pigments that were lost during the lifting and bleaching process. Similar to the many steps it takes to lighten hair, it takes work to layer colour back in. The filling process does that, but in reverse — redepositing the underlying warm shades that naturally exist beneath brown hair colours, explains Jeremy Tardo, colourist at Benjamin Salon. This way, your new brunette shade can fully saturate every last strand of hair without awkwardly fading.

We know what you're thinking: So, I can't just colour my hair a dark brown and move on with my life!? Unfortunately, your hair is most likely in an unhealthy state after undergoing lightening, which determines how easily the new, darker colour is absorbed. Lee explains that when hair is bleached over and over again, it’s difficult for any colour to truly stick. Lee explains that if you are as icy-white as Daenerys Targaryen, then your new brunette colour could settle in very dark or end up muddy. This all depends on how porous your hair is from the bleaching process. “It’s important to layer colour on top of colour until you reach your desired look,” Lee says. “Start lighter and go deeper as you dye."

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A post shared by Olivia Casanova (@livcasanovahair) on Mar 7, 2019 at 6:04am PST

It's Good To Know Your Colour Lingo

Do you prefer demi-permanent, semi-permanent, or permanent colour? Don't worry, we'll help you figure it out. Only after filling the hair can you reach the desired shade, which is often created with a semi-permanent or demi-permanent dye. Some colourists, like Lee, recommend a semi-permanent dye for the first appointment), while others, like Casanova, opt for demi-permanent formulas. What's the difference? Semi-permanent can only hold up to about six shampoos, but tends to fade without any harsh lines. Demi-permanent dye, on the other hand, can maintain its shiny colour for over 20 washes.

In short, these two options let you feel out your new colour with minimal commitment. You can always go back into the salon and request permanent dye later, but few colourists will start you with it. "I personally never use permanent colour to take someone from blonde to brunette," Tardo explains. "Permanent colour is necessary only for grey coverage or for lightening without bleach."

Your Hair Might Turn Green — But Don't Freak Yet

Although going natural means less worry about discolouration down the road, you're not out of the woods until all that processed hair grows out and gets chopped off. In fact, now you have to worry about your hair turning green. This usually happens if you go too cool in tone, as opposed to a shade with warmer undertones on the first go around. If the base colour isn’t warm enough, the new brunette colour can fade to a muddy brown or green.

Keep in mind that your hair can always change colour. "There are so many determining factors," Casanova says. The solution: Popping into the salon for a toner retouch is quick, easy, and makes a huge difference in keeping your colour rich.

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A post shared by Athena Katoanga (@athenakatoanga) on Mar 7, 2019 at 2:27pm PST

Getting Lowlights Is Helpful

Going from a bleach blonde to a solid brunette is a drastic change that sometimes feels too shocking, so Lee reminds us that blonde highlights are always an option. “These are my favorite transitions because the colour ends up having a beautiful brunette dimension,” says Lee. It'll take a few appointments to nail, but it'll also help you blur any lines of demarcation.

For Tardo, it includes leaving out some of the existing blonde hair, dyeing the rest brunette, and toning the remaining blonde pieces with a colour a touch lighter than the brunette base. Want to make an even slower transition to brunette? Jenna Perry, lead colourist at New York's boutique salon White Rose Collective, suggests shading the root down and adding lowlights before returning to one solid shade.

Look Into At-Home Treatments Made For Brunettes

Yes, even bottle brunettes can go brassy, which is why Lee recommends her brunette clients to still use a purple shampoo when they notice unwanted undertones surfacing. Try TRESemme Violet Blonde Shampoo. If brassiness isn't a concern for you, Perry suggests ditching the purple 'poos and conditioners for colour-depositing treatments, like Davines' Alchemic conditioners that come in a variety of shades, like chocolate, copper, and tobacco.

Colour-safe shampoos are a must, especially formulas that are sulphate-free. These will ensure your straight-out-the-salon shine lasts weeks longer than it might if you opt for harsher cleansers with sulphates. Tardo adds that when it comes to styling products, make sure to use conditioning, leave-in sprays that will boost your hair colour and protect against the elements with UV filters. Lastly, look for products, like IGK Bad & Bougie Repair Shampoo, that include a bond-building technology. It won't just strengthen hair immediately, but it will slowly repair the damage left behind from your former blonde moment. And speaking of bond-building technology, you may think being a brunette frees you of your Olaplex dependency (and saves you several Sundays of pre-shampoo conditioning treatments), but alas, Perry confirms brunettes need it just as much as blondes. It might take some work, but it'll be worth it. Welcome to the dark side.

Refinery29's selection is purely editorial and independently chosen – we only feature items we love! As part of our business model we do work with affiliates; if you directly purchase something from a link on this article, we may earn a small amount of commission. Transparency is important to us at Refinery29, if you have any questions please reach out to us.

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When it takes hours to do your hair, styling can feel like a full-time job — and just like with our 9-to-5, we deserve a break from our regular hair routine sometimes. So, all the twisting, straightening, and playing around with our natural hair goes on vacation when we do, and we lean on protective styles instead.

No twist-outs or wash-and-gos for weeks. Sounds heavenly, right? It is, but a lot of protective styles, like box braids, require a huge time commitment at the start. We're talking hours in the salon. And the smaller the braids, the more time you'll spend in the chair. That's why this spring, we're going for jumbo box braids.

Unlike micro braids, your hair is parted into bigger sections, allowing the braiding process to move quickly. Additionally, jumbo braids utilise more braiding hair, making each plait thicker overall. They're a great way to make a statement, take a break from doing your own hair, and save some extra time. Bonus: Rocking fewer, larger braids will also result in less time spent taking your style out. Sounds like a win in our book.

Read on for jumbo-braided looks to screenshot before your next vacation.

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Let’s face the fuzz. It’s 2019, we have body hair and we’re not afraid to let it all grow or let it all go. More importantly: here at Refinery29, we’re not afraid to talk about it.

Together with Braun, we speak to three women about why they decide to remove some of their hair and what it means to them, and only them. From IPL and learning to love your body to epilating and shaping your identity, these stories prove that when it comes to your body, it really is your beauty, your rules.

Paris Lees, writer and equality campaigner

"One of my favourite things is genuinely to make some tea, have a hot bath and use my Braun Silk-épil 9 epilator. I mean, yes, it hurts but I also find it helps me with my anxiety. Everyone feels different degrees of anxiety but you can really turn the volume up on that for trans people. It’s not for everybody but for me, hair removal and pampering is so therapeutic. When I'm not epilating, I tweeze a LOT – I actually cannot watch a movie without my tweezers, it’s such a thing for me. I consider it all vital self-care.

That’s because early on in your transition, you are relying on external things like hair removal, makeup and nails to help you pass. They don’t feel like a luxury, they feel like essentials. It’s because you are never allowed to forget your body when you’re trans, you’re always aware of it. Whether or not your body conforms to another person's idea of what it should look like, is the difference between whether or not you're able to walk down the street safely. There’s a lot of extra pressure and scrutiny on trans bodies. I really feel that.

I always jokingly say that transitioning is 90% hair removal. With body hair, you do feel like you have to get rid of it as that’s just within our culture, and when you want to be read as female you want to get rid of any male signifiers.

I know cis girls who wouldn’t shave their armpits and I really admire them for that. I think probably if I was cis then I would be with them but I feel that for me, I just don’t want to draw attention to anything that would make my gender presentation any more conspicuous than it needs to be. As a cis woman it has a different symbolic weight than it does for a trans woman.

On some level we all remove hair because of what other people may think. Sometimes you’re doing it and you think, 'Oh this is ridiculous, men don’t have to do this' but I don’t believe it’s all that, because I certainly don’t always put lipstick on or shave my legs to attract a man, I’m doing it because I feel better. I epilated my armpits yesterday for no real reason but my own – I just feel cleaner and happier.

There are a million ways for people to look good. Different bodies, hairy armpits – you name it – can all look gorgeous. There is space for everybody, and everybody has a look that works for them. Find something that works for you."

Vanessa Vanderpuye, actress and model

"I used to not want to show my abs or my arms or my thighs. I used to cover them up. I used to hate it when people would comment, or when guys would come up to me and say, 'Oh flex your muscles for us'. It made me hate my six pack. But now it's celebrated. Over the last three years, famous female athletes with strong bodies have become desirable and that’s so weird when you’re someone who has felt they have to hide what they have for years. I’ve learned to love my athletic body and wearing my hair natural, and I’ve made sure I celebrate both in my work as a model.

One thing I have had to learn to deal with is the facial hair I suddenly got when I came off the pill after seven years. It was the odd hair at first but then over the years it became thicker and fuller and it was as thick as my armpit hair. No matter what I did to remove it, it left scarring. I didn’t like my boyfriend at the time touching my chin at all. He used to tease me. It was in jest but it got too much and sometimes it was in front of other people so it made me feel super insecure.

It affected my work as a model so much that I had to quit for a while, I didn’t want people looking closely at my face. Someone on a shoot once yelled that they had to put extra makeup on my face to hide the scarring – in front of everyone. I had to keep smiling but I was dying inside.

The only thing that eventually worked for me was laser and facial epilating. Right now, my go-to is the Braun FaceSpa Pro. It also has a brush application that cleans my pores beforehand to minimise ingrown hairs. I usually just sit down, watch telly and do it with a cup of tea. Now that I feel in control of my facial hair, I feel like myself again. It’s allowed me get back into modelling and it also makes me feel like I can talk about it more, which really helps.

It’s so good that women are talking about their body hair. I have seen so many famous women recently talking about depression and mental health, and I even saw a woman speaking on a panel recently who had embraced her facial hair and grown a beard. It is nice to see people like that, it is making people who have those issues think, 'I am not alone'."

Jacqueline Kilikita, beauty editor Refinery29 UK

"I was at university when I discovered I had polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) – something that affects one in five women in the UK. One of the main symptoms is an increase in body hair. When they told me, suddenly everything clicked into place, because excess body hair had always been a huge issue for me.

When I was younger, I used to sort of leave it – I used bleach and hair removal creams. But when I got a bit older, the hair started to get coarser and thicker and so I would have to shave it. Especially on my face and my arms. It was all I knew how to do. It got to the point on my face where I had a constant five o'clock shadow and no amount of makeup would cover it up. I had constant stubble.

I was bullied about it and it really stuck with me – when you’re a young girl and it’s boys saying stuff, it stays in the back of your mind on dates. It made me feel so insecure. There was one time I was dating a guy and I quickly dry shaved my moustache and cut myself, so I had this gash on my upper lip. I had to put tissue over it!

I tried everything to control it, but it either made things worse or took up so much time and money. IPL was the only thing that worked but it was too expensive to go to the salon all the time. So having the Braun Silk-expert Pro 5 is revolutionary for me because I can do that at home really easily – it also has a SensoAdapt™ skin tone sensor so the laser can work perfectly with my olive skin. It has liberated me from thinking about it all the time. Being able to take control of my PCOS and the symptoms makes me feel better. People will always have something to say, but being able to completely remove something that affects me so much lets me be who I want to be, rather than constantly thinking, 'Omg have I shaved my fingers today?'

As a beauty editor, I think it’s great that I can speak about body hair in a totally unfiltered way. Women have body hair and we don’t shy away from talking about it. In that way I think we are moving in the right direction, whether you embrace your hair or not."

Your relationship with your body hair is as unique as you are, so your routine should be too. If hair removal is what gives you the confidence to love your body, do it the way that makes you happy and do it your way.

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We're regularly told that probiotics are the answer to our gut health woes. The idea of consuming special "good" bacteria to supposedly aid digestion, boost our immune systems and possibly even enhance our moods is well established in the wellness world by now. But a strand of probiotics that's less spoken about (at least up to now) are those for vaginas.

Health brands now manufacture probiotics that purport to boost our vaginal health. There's OptiBac "For women", Canesten's "Canesflor probiotics for vaginal use" and RepHresh's "Pro-B Probiotic Feminine Supplement", to name just a few, which promise to replenish good bacteria and maintain a healthy balance of vaginal flora with the aim of preventing "bad" bacteria and yeasts from thriving. (The natural balance of bacteria in the vagina can be thrown out of whack by using scented feminine hygiene products.)

By taking one to two capsules daily – either orally or by inserting them into the vagina – these supplements purport to prevent common complaints like thrush, cystitis and bacterial vaginosis (a common cause of vaginal discharge).

"Certain strains of commercially available probiotic bacteria, such as Lactobacillus reuteri RC-14® and Lactobacillus rhamnosus GR-1®, have been shown to be natural residents of a healthy vaginal microbiome," Kerry Beeson, a nutritional therapist and customer care team leader at OptiBac Probiotics, told us. "Research suggests that even when taken orally they are able to colonise in the vagina and discourage the growth of the types of pathogenic (bad) bacteria and yeasts that cause infections."

Such products cost between £10-£50 (depending on the pack size) – but are they actually necessary?

Not according to NHS gynaecologist Dr Anita Mitra, otherwise known as The Gynae Geek, who completed a PhD about the vaginal microbiome and frequently speaks about the topic on the international scientific circuit. "There is currently no evidence that every woman needs to be taking a probiotic for their vagina. I personally do not take a vaginal probiotic as a routine," she told Refinery29.

I wouldn't recommend all women to take them if they don't have any problems.

Dr Mitra does say, however, that supplements like OptiBac "For women" are "quite good for certain women only," specifically those with recurrent thrush and recurrent urinary tract infections. "Probiotics aren't currently part of any UK guidelines for the management of any kind of gynaecological disorders, but it's a very active area of research, and I predict that they'll become part of them in the future," Dr Mitra added.

While she's not currently aware of any risks associated with taking vagina probiotics, Dr Mitra conceded that "their use is relatively new. This is another reason why I wouldn't recommend all women to take them if they don't have any problems." She is also "[worried about women feeling they need to self-diagnose and use the increasing number of over-the-counter products that are available."

The Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG) is also clear that not every woman should hop on this wellness bandwagon. "Some studies have suggested [vagina probiotics] can be helpful with conditions like bacterial vaginosis, through maintaining or restoring the vaginal microecology, but more robust research is needed to confirm such benefits," Dr Vanessa MacKay, consultant gynaecologist and spokesperson for RCOG, told Refinery29. Importantly, she added, "there are risks around allergic reaction and there are specific instances where the use of probiotics is actively discouraged including in people with compromised immune systems or those who have a serious health condition."

Instead, RCOG advises women who think they may have bacterial vaginosis or are experiencing symptoms, such as unusual vaginal discharge, to speak to a healthcare professional before rushing to buy an over-the-counter probiotic for their vagina. "A GP or healthcare professional in a sexual health service can prescribe antibiotics or creams for women who have bacterial vaginosis which are effective treatments. Women can also help to relieve symptoms by using water and plain soap to wash the genital area and have showers instead of baths."

There are particular risks associated with the versions of these supplements that are meant to be taken vaginally, said obstetrician and gynaecologist Dr Fiona Mattatall. "If using vaginally, there is the risk of introducing other bacteria with insertion – for instance, because of dirty hands or if the tablet wasn’t clean at insertion – as well as the risk of small cuts in the vagina if it's not inserted correctly and the risk of increased vaginal discharge and change in odour."

Dr Mattatall also told us she's concerned that the studies cited in adverts for vagina probiotics are often small scale and of dubious quality, and that women with a healthy vagina "assume they need to take [vagina probiotics] because of marketing."

Dr Mitra assures us there are many other – easier and cheaper – ways to ensure good vaginal health than by taking a probiotic. "Wipe front to back, urinate after sex, don't smoke, wear cotton underwear, and please avoid feminine hygiene products like vaginal washes, wipes, etc. If you have discharge or irritation, see your doctor. I've told loads of women to stop using [these products] and their symptoms clear up, but I've never had anyone who told me they actually helped. They just wash away all the good bacteria, but don't really help to get rid of any of the bad bacteria or yeasts."

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In an early scene in Unicorn Store, twentysomething Kit (Brie Larson), back at her parents’ house after flunking out of art school, spends an entire day flipping through channels, watching as a vibrantly colourful unicorn cartoon fades into the greyish tones of an infomercial about how to become an adult.

It’s one of the most down-to-earth moments in a film filled with whimsy, an effective parable for the millennial experience. We’ve all been on that couch at some point, wondering what dreams we may have to give up to grow up.

Brie Larson’s feature directorial debut, from a script by Samantha McIntyre, unfolds on two levels. On the surface, it’s a modern fairy tale about a woman seeking to acquire an actual unicorn (bear with us), after receiving an offer from The Salesman (Samuel L. Jackson in a wonderful pink suit and Beyoncé -inspired tinsel hair), owner of The Store, a place filled with hay, ice cream, and other delightfully twee items. But to paraphrase Boromir, “one does not simply” get a unicorn. You have to earn it by proving worthy of such a rare creature, and that means establishing order in every aspect of your life, whether it’s family, friends, love, or work.

That same “unicorn” also serves as metaphor for all the seemingly unachievable aspects of a full and complete personhood. The lovely thing about Larson’s approach is that most of the film exists in that in-between place straddling fantasy and reality, which means you’re never really sure if Kit should be seeking help for her delusions, or if you as a viewer are too cynical to believe in nice things.

In the tradition of Napoleon Dynamite, the characters are mostly deadpan weirdos and misfits. This can be hit-or-miss, but mostly works here. Joan Cusack and Bradley Whiftord are cringe-inducingly funny as Kit’s kale-and-quinoa-loving life coach parents, and Mahmadou Athie charms as Virgil, a hardware store employee who befriends Kit on her quest. Still, in some cases, that kind of apathetic detachment makes it difficult to connect with people we should be able to empathise with, or at the very least care about.

Fans of Jackson and Larson’s dynamic in Captain Marvel will definitely enjoy their first meeting here, which ramps up their undeniable friendship chemistry. Jackson goes full Willy Wonka, and Kit is a quirky vehicle for Larson, who strikes the right balance between a woman who has literal glitter stuck between her toes, and a regular person just trying to figure shit out. But her director’s touch is really what gives the film its distinct cotton-candy explosion flavour, successfully tempered with details that anchor it in lived experience.

One detail I particularly love is when Kit leaves for her first day at a PR office job awkwardly wearing her mother’s old ill-fitting calf-length skirt-suit — a millennial university grad in business drag. tWhen Kit watches TV in the scene mentioned earlier, her snacks shift from leftover toast crusts (morning), to diet Coke and Pop Tarts (lunch time) , to Cheez-Its (afternoon). By the time her parents return with Kevin-from-down-the-street-remember-him (Karan Soni), the coffee table is strewn with bowls of cereal, mac & cheese, pistachio husks, and a half-finished bag of crisps. Too real.

But while those moments feel universal, Unicorn Store’s most powerful moments speak specifically to the experience of young women. Take Gary (Hamish Linklater), Kit’s boss who is constantly making inappropriate physical contact and sexual innuendos, or her male art teacher who flunks her for painting outside the prescribed lines. The film successfully makes a point about a woman searching for her value in a world that tells her she can do anything, but keeps shutting doors in her face.

In fact, the conversation around the film’s April 5 Netflix release has been an ironic reflection of this insidious messaging. Recently, the streaming giant came to Larson’s defense on Twitter when someone suggested that she was "just riding Captain Marvel’s wave", and that she should model herself on fellow-first time director Jonah Hill, "who was mentored by Martin Scorsese and took years before he made his directorial debut out of respect for the artistry of film and the position of director."

Putting aside the debate around whether this corporation was simply protecting its investment rather than taking a stand on sexism, this kind of backlash proves that for many women, respect and equality remain elusive unicorns — creatures we’re certainly worthy of.

Unicorn Store is on Netflix from 5th April

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The first daughter and White House advisor's schedule isn't public, but we'll keep you posted on her goings-on every week.

Ivanka Trump is travelling to Ethiopia and Ivory Coast this month to promote her global women's economic empowerment initiative. The Women’s Global Development and Prosperity Initiative, which was announced by the the Trump administration in early February, aims to help 50 million women in the developing world get ahead economically by 2025. The administration has dedicated £38 million to the initiative, though that figure could go up to £225 million allocated for 10 US government agencies in the next years.

“I am excited to travel to Africa and advance the United States’ Women’s Global Development and Prosperity initiative. The White House, and the whole of US government, stands firmly behind the goal of economically empowering 50 million women through W-GDP by 2025 and in so doing, championing American values of freedom and equality around the world," Ivanka Trump said in a statement provided to Refinery29. She added: "This mission is crucial to the peace and stability of nations and is achievable if we focus our collaborative efforts on job training, entrepreneurship, and breaking down the legal and cultural barriers that restrict women from achieving their full economic potential."

Women's economic empowerment has been centrepiece of Ivanka's White House portfolio since she officially joined her father's administration two years ago, but advocates have wondered if these initiatives are enough. Her trip follows the Trump administration's decision to expand its anti-choice Mexico City Policy to include foreign non-governmental organisations (NGOs) that support abortion providers. The Reagan-era policy, best known as the global gag rule, already blocks international organisations that offer or even discuss abortion care from receiving federal funding. "American taxpayer dollars will not be used to underwrite abortions," Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said after announcing the changes last week. (The 1977 Hyde Amendment already blocks the use of federal funds to pay for abortions at home and abroad.)

Advocates say the global gag rule is at odds with the women's economic empowerment programs championed by Ivanka. The rule, they argue, forces health providers to choose between not offering abortions as part of their reproductive health care offerings or be denied funding that goes to other crucial services such as birth control, STIs testing, and prenatal care.

"Access to reproductive health services is critical for women's labor force participation and it's critical for the type of labor participation, their ability to get good jobs and leave the informal economy," Sarah Gammage, senior director for Gender, Economic Empowerment, and Livelihoods at the International Center for Research on Women (ICRW), told Refinery29. "The failure to support comprehensive reproductive health care programming, and [any policy] that reduces the number of providers engaged in that, will have a direct effect on women’s economic empowerment and women's ability to work."

There is an obvious disconnect between the Trump administration's anti-abortion crusade globally and Ivanka's desire to break down the "barriers that restrict women from achieving their full economic potential." According to the ICRW, research estimates that "each additional child reduced women’s labor force participation by 5 to 10 percentage points during their prime working years (age 20-44)." If providers lose funding over the decision to provide and offer referrals for abortion care, that would impact their capacity to offer birth control. But if they decide to stop offering abortions, that would impact women who want to terminate their pregnancies in a safe, legal environment. Both options hurt women who want to be able to decide when and if to have children. "Without comprehensive reproductive health services — including contraception and safe, legal abortion — women's economic choices remain constrained," Gammage said. "If you can’t control your fertility, you can’t control your ability to earn and learn, and your ability to care for your family is greatly limited."

According to the White House, Ivanka's schedule includes meetings with political leaders, female entrepreneurs, and other power players and site visits in both countries plus she'll be attending a summit dedicated to the topic of women's economic empowerment in Ivory Coast, hosted by the World Bank Group. She will be travelling with Mark Green, administrator of the US Agency for International Development (USAID), an agency playing an integral part in the initiative; David Bohigian, acting president of the Overseas Private Investment Corporation; and Kristalina Georgieva, interim president of the World Bank Group.

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It’s been a year and a half since the Game of Thrones season 7 finale aired, so it’s totally understandable if you’ve forgotten a few key details. And honestly, it’s also totally understandable if you’ve forgotten everything. Some of the character names and places and events are so hard to remember even while watching an episode. We’ve been guilty of having to pause and google multiple times during the same scene! Even diehard Game of Thrones fans are justifiably a little rusty since it’s been so long since this series graced our TV screens. So to get back in the spirit, here are all the Game of Thrones episodes you need to watch before Season 8 premieres on April 15. If, however, you are even more strapped for time than this guide allows, you can also go for the cheat mode, which selects the essential, cannot miss, even if you have no time at all episodes.

So prepare for nostalgia, excitement and of course tears for all your favourite deceased Game of Thrones characters, because valar morghulis!

The Most Important Season 1 Episodes

Cheat Mode: Just watch "The King's Road," "Baelor" and the final scene of "Fire & Blood."

Season 1, Episode 1: “Winter Is Coming”

Take it back to where it all began, as we meet the Stark children (they’re such babies!), all alive and together with no idea about the misery and heartbreak that lies ahead for them. Plus, it’s got the first sex scene between Jaime & Cersei (Nicholaj Coster Waldau and Lena Headey) — the birth of the twincest — which proved Thrones is a show unlike anything we’d seen before.

Season 1, Episode 2: “The King’s Road”

Most of the problems on this show can be traced to this episode, in which Arya (Maisie Williams) and Sansa (Sophie Turner) first splinter as sisters, the Lannisters and the Starks begin their war against each other and Jon Snow (Kit Harington) leaves his family for the Night’s Watch. The Starks have never been in the same place since this episode, and man, that hurts to think about.

Season 1, Episode 6: “A Golden Crown”

Direwolf murder aside, this episode featured one of the first major deaths of Game of Thrones: Khal Drogo (Jason Momoa) kills Viserys (Harry Lloyd) by giving him a crown of molten gold. It was brutal, violent, and totally unexpected, but it felt pretty deserved. That trend ended pretty quickly though.

Season 1, Episode 9: “Baelor”

Ah, who could ever forget this fateful early episode that proved we couldn't get attached to any character? Even a main character like Ned Stark (Sean Bean) isn’t safe from death! Also, screw you Joffrey (Jack Gleason), who only gets worse after cheering on the death of his fiance's father in front of her.

Season 1, Episode 10: “Fire And Blood”

There’s a lot of fallout from the previous episode and set up for the new season in this episode, but the final scene is the most important as Daenerys (Emilia Clarke) becomes the Mother of Dragons for the first time.

The Most Important Season 2 Episodes

Cheat Mode: Skip ahead to "The Ghosts of Harrenhal" and "Blackwater"

Season 2, Episode 2: “The Night Lands”

Our first glimpse at how the White Walkers grow their army comes care of Jon Snow north of The Wall at Craster’s Keep. Ugh, Craster. He was the worst.

Season 2, Episode 5: “The Ghost of Harrenhal”

Melisandre’s (Carice van Houten) shadow baby; Renly’s (Gethin Anthony) death; the introduction of Jaqen H’ghar (Tom Wlaschiha); Brienne’s (Gwendoline Christie) oath of loyalty to Catelyn Stark (Michelle Fairley); Tyrion (Peter Dinklage) learning about Cersei’s wildfire — man, this episode is jam-packed with so much foreshadowing and so many game-changing moments! How could we not include it on this list?

Season 2, Episode 6: “The Old Gods and the New”

Jon meets Ygritte (Rose Leslie) for the first time! It’s definitely not love at first sight but it sure is something. And you have to stay until the very end when Dany says her now-iconic line: “Where are my dragons?!”

Season 2, Episode 9: “Blackwater”

Continuing the tradition of an epic penultimate episode, the Battle of the Blackwater features one of Game of Thrones ’ first and biggest battle scenes yet. The action was top notch, the fates of many main characters hung in the balance, and the last minute save couldn't have been timed any better. The fate of Westeros hinged on this battle and it lived up to the hype.

The Most Important Season 3 Episodes

Cheat Mode: Watch "Kissed by Fire" and "The Rains of Castamere"

Season 3, Episode 2: “Dark Wings, Dark Words”

The debut of Olenna Tyrell (Diana Rigg), the Queen of Thorns, is enough to make this episode essential for a rewatch. But this hour also begins Theon’s (Alfie Allen) descent into becoming Reek as well as Bran’s (Isaac Hempstead-Wright) journey to becoming the Three-Eyed Raven.

Season 3, Episode 3: “Walk of Punishment”

Jaime and Brienne have been together for quite some time at this point, but this is the first moment where you can see their unlikely friendship blooming. Jaime selflessly saves Brienne from getting raped by their captors, and it costs him dearly. But this is a turning point for the previously selfish and dishonourable character. Plus, Missandei (Nathalie Emmanuel) arrives!

Season 3, Episode 5: “Kissed By Fire”

Jon Snow and Ygritte’s steamy cave sex aside, this episode is key to revealing why the Starks lose so brutally in the war for the Iron Throne and the North’s independence. King in the North Robb (Richard Madden) is getting desperate and making big plays he can’t back up. It’s going to cost him everything, and quite soon.

Season 3, Episode 9: “The Rains of Castamere”

As much as it hurts to watch all over again, no Game of Thrones marathon is complete without the Red Wedding. The turning point for the Starks and the war is filled with so much bloodshed, but finally the houses show their true colours and battle lines are drawn. Plus, Bran’s warging reaches new heights as he enters Hodor’s (Kristian Nairn) mind, and it actually isn’t the first (or the last) time that happens.

The Most Important Season 4 Episodes

Cheat Mode: Just watch "The Lion And The Rose" and "Oathkeeper"

Season 4, Episode 2: “The Lion and the Rose”

Less traumatising than the Red Wedding, the Purple Wedding is just as important for the fate of Westeros. Plus, Joffrey finally gets what was coming to him.

Season 4, Episode 4: “Oathkeeper”

Jaime and Cersei’s first major splintering happens as he makes his own decisions and sends Brienne off to save Sansa instead of killing her. Plus, we finally learn how White Walkers are made in a scene that’s both literally and figuratively bone-chilling.

Season 4, Episode 8: “The Mountain and the Viper”

Sweet, sweet Oberyn (Pedro Pascal). The trial-by-combat for Tyrion’s life (after he was falsely found guilty of killing Joffrey) ends in true heartbreak as Oberyn gets cocky and The Mountain (Hafþór Júlíus Björnsson) literally crushes his skull. This was one of the most violent deaths on Game of Thrones ever and it couldn’t have happened to a less deserving person.

Season 4, Episode 10: “The Children”

Another finale that mostly sets up the new season, this episode is important for Arya’s journey as she escapes the Hound (Rory McCann) after his epic and brutal fight with Brienne and finally makes her way to Jaqen H’ghar in Braavos. And Tyrion finally gets his revenge on his father, Tywin (Charles Dance), and everyone else who lied during his trial.

The Most Important Season 5 Episodes

Cheat Mode: Go straight to the end and watch "Hardhome" and "Mother's Mercy"

Season 5, Episode 5: “Kill the Boy”

Honestly, this whole season is pretty hard to watch but there are some important scenes to remember, like Sansa and Theon’s first encounter since he became Reek; Sansa thinking she could trust Ramsay Bolton (Iwan Rheon) because of Littlefinger’s (Aiden Gillen) advice; Tyrion seeing his first dragon; and Jorah (Iain Glen) getting greyscale.

Season 5, Episode 6: “Unbowed, Unbent, Unbroken”

Yikes is all I have to say about this episode. It’s one of the hardest to watch, but again, the episode is, overall, essential for the story. Poor Sansa. This episode also shows the growing threat of the High Sparrow’s Faith Militant and Cersei’s biggest mistake by giving the religious group too much power.

Season 5, Episode 8: “Hardhome”

The big battle comes early this season, but it’s not just action for action’s sake. Jon Snow sees the Night King for the first time and the threat of the White Walkers finally gets a face. They witness the Night King reanimating all the wildlings who just died, making them into wights. “Winter is coming” takes on a whole new meaning.

Season 5, Episode 10: “Mother’s Mercy”

So much happens in this hour, but it’s really the last scene that is the most important as Jon Snow pays for his betrayal of the Night’s Watch and is stabbed to death. Plus, Cersei finally faces the music for all her crimes in a scene that actually makes you feel real empathy for her.

The Most Important Season 6 Episodes

Cheat Mode: Sorry, you need pretty much all of these ones, but you can skip Hodor's death if you can't take seeing it once more.

Season 6, Episode 2: “Home”

The long international nightmare of wondering whether Jon Snow would come back to life finally ends with this episode. No episode could not be more important than this. Plus, Ramsay shows his true colours and Sansa finally gets a break. And Bran’s visions of the past provide some key intel.

Season 6, Episode 3: “Oathbreaker”

The Tower of Joy flashback! R+L=J! It’s all happening!

Season 6, Episode 5: “The Door”

“Hold the door” will never sound the same after we learn how Hodor became Hodor at the same exact time that we lose Hodor forever. This might be one of the saddest deaths of Game of Thrones ever.

Season 6, Episode 9: “Battle of the Bastards”

Jon Snow vs. Ramsay Bolton is a showdown worth the wait. Poor Rickon doesn’t make it out alive but his legacy lives on to remind us all to run in a zig-zag while escaping an armed captor. At least Sansa finally gets her revenge in the most Ramsay Bolton-esque way possible. Plus, Dany’s shoring up her alliances to finally becoming the threat we always knew she could be.

Season 6, Episode 10: “The Winds of Winter”

This finale might be the most jam-packed episode yet, kicking off with Cersei’s massive revenge against the Faith Militant. Her plan has quite the body count and unintended consequences as poor Tommen finds that he isn’t cut out for the Lannister way of life and dies by suicide. Plus Jon Snow becomes the King of the North; Arya gets her revenge on Walder Frey in her own version of the Red Wedding; Dany sets sail for Westeros; Cersei is crowned the new leader of the Seven Kingdoms; and Bran finally, finally, finally confirms that Jon is actually a Targaryen, not a bastard, and has an actual claim to the Iron Throne.

The Most Important Season 7 Episodes

Cheat Mode: Skip to "The Spoils of War," "Beyond The Wall," and "The Dragon and The Wolf"

Season 7, Episode 2: “Stormborn”

A lot of pieces are in motion but perhaps the biggest is Arya learning of Jon Snow’s return to Winterfell as King of the North. She halts her plans to go to King’s Landing, instead returns home to finally reunite with her brother. We have yet to see that actually happen, but good things come to those who wait, right?

Season 7, Episode 3: “The Queen’s Justice”

Jon Snow and Daenerys Targaryen’s first meeting is everything we could have hoped it would be. Okay, it could have been better but it has to start somewhere. Plus we get a Stark family reunion as Bran finally returns to Winterfell, but his creepy transformation into the Three-Eyed Raven is more than a little off-putting. And while this is Olenna’s last episode, she goes out with the most badass death scene.

Season 7, Episode 4: “The Spoils of War”

Jaime and the Lannisters finally learn just how big of a threat Dany is when she rides her dragon into a battle against them. And Arya’s grand return to Winterfell is just as epic as we’d imagined it would be.

Season 7, Episode 6: “Beyond the Wall”

Arya vs. Sansa is not the kind of Stark reunion we wanted, but it’s the one we’re getting thanks to Littlefinger. And Jon Snow’s journey north of The Wall to capture a wight to prove to Westeros that they need to band together instead of killing each other goes pretty terribly. Thanks to Gendry’s awesome running skills and Dany’s dragons, they’re able to save everyone... except Viserion, who is killed and reanimated as a wight dragon by the Night King, proving that the undead army is a lot smarter than anyone realised.

Season 7, Episode 7: “The Dragon and the Wolf”

The last new episode we’ve gotten is definitely the most important to remember going into the. final season. The reunions in this episode were off the charts as everyone came together in King’s Landing to see a wight with their own eyes. Plus, the character dynamics shiftedlike crazy. Jaime deserts Cersei. Jon and Dany sleep together (ew). Arya and Sansa reveal they’ve been working together this whole time and Arya kills Littlefinger. Sam and Bran prove Jon’s true parentage. And the Night King destroys the Wall with his army of the undead and wight dragon.

Congratulations, we made it to the end! Cue up the Game of Thrones theme song once more and get ready for the epic conclusion when Season 8 starts on April 14.

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Welcome to Style Obituary, in which we look back affectionately on beloved brands of the '90s and '00s and wonder: What the hell were we thinking?

'Maths' and 'fashion' are two words you don’t often find in the same equation. In fact, being good at maths will likely mean you’re bad at fashion because if you had any sense with numbers you’d know that buying shit you don’t need with money you don’t have is mathematically senseless.

But every now and then a brand comes along with such an overwhelming power that it forces us into the most absurd style equations and pushes us out the other side, the strange victim of bad addition, no subtraction and worlds of illogic.

Where were you when you first passed fashion-maths? When, for some reason, you added the shorts of a young boy on a paper round, a peasant (lol) top made of a flimsy linen, a tan cross-body security bag that nobody would even want to steal, a Britney trilby at a stunning jaunty angle, a chestnut-coloured leatherette belt that cracked to reveal grey fabric that would, for some reason, make you feel quite sad every time you saw it, and a knee-high, off-tan boot with a wooden mini-heel?

That’s right. You were in a changing room in Kookaï in a regional town with six hours to spare before Becky’s birthday meal and night out in town. Your Body Shop bronzer beads had just spilled and crushed into a greasy mulch inside your Mischa Barton for Matalan handbag, covering your hairbrush, makeup bag and the charm bracelet that you and the gals got Becky for her birthday in a cakey, glistening mess. A classic panicked conundrum.

But pressure, like with many reactions in science — arguably the closest academic practice to maths — was your catalyst. You could speed around that Kookaï and grab 17 items and some-fucking-how make it both 'work' and make it look like you had very little on. Like, although that giant belt made of circles with holes in was big, and worn atop a sheer paisley gypsy (lol) dress with an uneven 'floaty' hem, some black shiny beads tied into a knot at the breastbone because you needed to let people know that you were classy and have watched Chicago, that bloody belt, sitting at your hips, somehow blended in. That’s mathematical genius — true optical illusion.

And Kookaï, founded in 1983, was all about the optical illusion: about infusing a bit of Parisian style into the wardrobes of the world, both affordably and (post-1996) ethically. It was good at what it did, for a time. And in 2019, when it is deeply bleak to be British, we must look back at this time and remember that a brand that set out to make us all more chic, more French, was divided, by us Brits, from its original purpose and added back together in a way that allowed us to literally recreate Atomic Kitten tour looks for our nights out in Plymouth.

I mean it was Kookaï who got you your first job. When you went for your interview at Thorntons, you wanted to wear something that said: 'Yes, I am professional and dressed as my mum but with an edgy twist; I am 17 but look nearly 19; I will ice names and messages on your chocolate slabs like no one else who will walk through these doors, so give me this pissing job, Liz, or I’m gonna torch your fucking store. I need the £6.55 an hour to get more unsettlingly layered outfits from Kookaï.'

Remember, you wore a tight brown (?!) dress, mid-thigh length, with black opaque tights, a beige court shoe which aged you exactly 261 years, a bag in that same chestnut material that cracked, and a shirt with pouffy sleeves and a sort of messy cowl neck in a colour that can only be described as 'was white but then I dropped it in a very muddy puddle and now my mum’s washed it three times and it’s a kind of very, very, very pale brown'.

You managed to add brown to chestnut to tan to black to beige to puddle water, and you wore your hair down with a QUIFF, and you GOT THE GODDAM JOB AT THORNTONS!

That was the power of Kookaï, the power of the optical illusion, which made things so seemingly devoid of style brim with it — it got you jobs, got you laid, got you to finally become good at maths. In the words of Coco Chanel, a woman of usually few words: "Kookaï was, really, an amazing brand. I wore nothing else for a whole decade between 1995 and 2005. It’s the only brand for which I went against my cardinal rule: before you leave the house take one thing off! Wow! The power of addition! Kookaï's got the Chanel seal of approval. You do the math!"

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From lipstick and foundation to mascara and brow pencils, you might have already spotted the products R29 beauty writers buy on repeat. But what about the professional makeup artists?

Tasked with conjuring up Instagram-worthy looks under tons of pressure, including on shoots, the red carpet and backstage at Fashion Week, those guys know which mascaras will lengthen and define without smudging, the foundations that stay put throughout the sweatiest of commutes and the lipsticks which last way past lunchtime.

Click through to discover the failsafe products expert makeup artists pick up time and time again.

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Nearly 50 years after the last Mary Quant retrospective, tomorrow the V&A will open its doors to the highly anticipated exhibition celebrating all aspects of the legendary British designer's legacy. Focusing on the years between 1955 and 1975, the museum's latest fashion installation will explore the two decades in which "Quant revolutionised the high street, harnessing the youthful spirit of the '60s and new mass production techniques to create a new look for women."

Quant was integral to London's Swinging Sixties scene and championed affordable fashion for the everywoman. Her colour-pop hues, graphic patterns and sky-high, thigh-climbing mini skirts are well documented, but the exhibition feels more relevant than ever.

Statistics published by the Fawcett Society in 2017 show that 41% of men aged 18-24 say that a woman who is drunk and wearing a short skirt is "totally or partially to blame" for their sexual assault. Sure, wearing a mini skirt in 2019 may not feel like a radical act, but when slut shaming still takes place both in the street and in court, there's no underestimating the continued significance of the mini in wider society.

"In this age of #MeToo, with many women historically feeling marginalised and overlooked, the timing couldn’t be more perfect to celebrate a woman whose trailblazing career inspired and liberated women from conventional and stifling rules and regulations – and from dressing like their mothers," exhibition curators Jenny Lister and Stephanie Wood tell Refinery29. "Now is the perfect time to recognise a woman who was a powerful role model for working women and whose vision and steely determination enabled her to succeed in a male-dominated environment."

Back in June 2018, the V&A launched a campaign called #WeWantQuant, encouraging people to send in any Mary Quant-related pieces, from photographs, makeup and magazines to original garments. "With over 1,000 replies to date, the response has been overwhelming," they explain. "We’ve included 50 photographs of the women wearing their beloved Quant clothes. It’s a testament to how much Quant meant to women that they kept them for so many years."

"Many women came forward with Quant clothing made for special occasions like their weddings and we have also uncovered rare examples such as a very early, boldly printed top bought by a research scientist to meet her geologist fiancé returning from a trip in Antarctica, and a PVC raincoat worn and lovingly kept by two generations of women in the same family – underlining the longevity of many of Mary's designs. We are also featuring a dress homemade from a Mary Quant designed dressmaking pattern for the wearer's 21st birthday."

Speaking with four of the women who submitted their photographs to the V&A for the exhibition, we heard stories of just how much Quant and her designs meant to young women of the '60s and '70s. Quant's pieces meant sexual liberation, a launchpad out of humdrum suburban life, and rebellion against one's parents. Click through to see just how much the iconic designer meant to these women.

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From skin cancer to burns, fine lines to pigmentation, we're all aware of the damaging effects UV rays have on skin, so for many of us, buying a day moisturiser that also contains SPF is a total no-brainer. Hydrated skin and sun protection – tick.

But a new study presented at the British Association of Dermatologists (BAD) 's annual meeting in Edinburgh found that the SPF in our trusty pot of moisturiser, whatever the factor, might not be offering us the UV protection we think it is.

The study concluded that "moisturisers with sun protection factor (SPF) provide less sun protection than the equivalent strength sunscreen in real-world scenarios," in other words, compared to a regular, targeted sun cream with no add-ons like face cream or foundation.

During the study, researchers from the University of Liverpool enlisted the help of a specially modified camera that captures UV light in order to look at the ways in which participants applied regular SPF and moisturiser containing SPF – and the results were very different.

After assessing the pictures, researchers found that when an area of skin is covered efficiently by SPF, it appears black. When they looked at the pictures of the people who had applied SPF moisturiser, their faces were comparatively lighter, which suggests SPF absorption was less successful and therefore less effective.

"We expected the area of face covered with moisturiser to be greater than sunscreen, in particular the eyelids because of the perception that moisturiser stings the eyes less than sunscreen," said Mr Austin McCormick, a consultant ophthalmic and oculoplastic surgeon, and one of the researchers. "In fact we found the opposite: the area of the face covered effectively was greater with sunscreen than moisturiser. In addition, where it was applied, the moisturiser provided less UV protection than sunscreen."

But that's not to say moisturiser with SPF doesn't provide sun protection – just a little less.

"Although skin moisturiser with SPF does provide sun protection, our research suggests that it’s not to the same degree as sunscreen," continued McCormick. "We do recommend moisturisers and makeup that contain UV protection – it is better than no protection at all, but for prolonged periods in the sun we recommend the application of sunscreen with high SPF."

The study also found that people are more likely to miss out certain areas of their face when applying SPF moisturiser, in particular, eyelids. According to BAD, this is a huge cause for concern, as "the eyelid area is a common site for skin cancers".

In addition, how you apply SPF is important, too, and it seems we aren't slathering on the moisturiser as thickly as a regular SPF. In fact the study concluded that people missed 16% of their face on average, compared to sunscreen, at 11%. Matthew Gass, of the British Association of Dermatologists, said: "A good way to prevent this from becoming an issue is to wear sunglasses and reapply sunscreen regularly. This should help protect the bits you miss from being exposed to excessive sun."

He concluded: "Unfortunately, moisturiser with SPF just doesn’t perform particularly well in real world situations compared to sunscreen. Although it may say factor 30 on the box, this study is just further evidence that lab testing conditions for these products don’t reflect how they are used."

The solution? Investing in a separate SPF to apply over your moisturiser. Sure, it might be a little bit of a faff in the morning, but it's definitely worth it.

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The following is an extract from How To Come Alive Again: A Guide to Killing Your Monsters by Beth McColl.

1. Everything I know about bad days

Bad days do what they like. They’re naughty teenagers that act out just because they want to. Sometimes they’ll follow logically from bad news or a bad thing happening, but sometimes they’ll just rear up out of the abyss.

Bad days are not forever. They may stick together and last for a week, but there will be an end. This is guaranteed.

You’ll survive bad days however you can. Use any skills that you’ve learned, and do your basic best to keep yourself fed and hydrated and safe, but aside from that, just ride them out and wait for them to end (they always end).

You’re not weak for not being able to go about your life as usual on a very bad day. You’re allowed to call in sick, or ask your friends if it’s okay to reschedule. You’re allowed to half-arse some stuff and ignore other stuff altogether. Bad days are exhausting.

2. Preparing for bad days

Know what your triggers are. In other words, know what situations, pressures, people or feelings are most likely to send you slipping into a very bad or unpleasant place. Common triggers include an argument or falling out, a violent scene in a book, movie or TV show, a big change in routine, drinking too much, hearing upsetting news, any kind of contact from an abuser. These are the obvious ones, but triggers can be literally anything – loud noises, a perceived rejection or slight, a certain song or sound, criticism. Triggers are personal, and it’s important to know what yours are so you can plan for them. Sometimes you can prepare for triggers: you can check movies or books or TV shows before you watch them, you can let your friends and family know what to avoid when taking you places or starting conversations. And you can work with your doctor or therapist to help lessen and overcome certain triggers. But life is big and busy and has a habit of throwing exactly what you don’t want right in your face. When this happens it’s good to have a contingency plan.

Tell trusted friends and family what to expect from you when you’re feeling depressed and make sure they know that even when you’re doing well and ‘recovering’ there will still be bad days. Communicating with them on the better days about the future is a way to ensure that when the bad days come back around, they’re more prepared to deal with it. Having to hold their hands through it won’t be an option when you’re feeling terrible and depressed, so talk to them when you’re on the up, get them well educated and well prepared for how you’re likely to feel and act. Give them a list of the kinds of things that they can do to help when you’re in a slump or having a bad day. Hand them this book and ask them to read it cover to cover.

Have a care package stashed away for when the worst of it hits. Yes, I KNOW, I know – it’s embarrassing and corny and twee and very likely not the kind of thing that you’d normally consider doing for yourself. And if it’s too out of your comfort bucket, pick someone who loves you and subtly blackmail them into making you one. I’m kidding, of course: this is actually very much exactly the type of thing that loving friends and family are here for. You could even offer to make one for a friend who’ll make one for you. That way you have a tangible thing to turn to when you’re feeling in need of comfort, and you’ll be helping a friend at the same time.

Make sure that someone at your work or school knows that you might have days where you’ll be too ill to make it in. Finding a sympathetic person in your place of work can be tricky, and if you don’t feel safe opening up about your illness, then please follow that instinct. If you can provide a doctor’s note, it puts you in a far stronger position, regardless of whether your workplace is sympathetic or not. Having medical proof and a complete record of your illness will help you out a lot down the line, so prioritise it if you can. But even just someone you can confide in or who knows broadly that you’re not always going to be able to perform at 100 per cent can be a lifeline.

Have a clean set of bedding stashed away for the times when you’re not going to be able to do any laundry. Have a set of basic unworn underwear and socks stashed somewhere too, and maybe some cheap T-shirts that stay in their packet unless absolutely required. Some days you just have to fake being a high-functioning human. Take these delicious shortcuts and don’t ever look back.

Make a folder or scrapbook (this can be a tangible one or on your computer or tablet) of easy, cheap and nourishing recipes so that you’re not stuck for something to make on those days when you really can’t face standing in the kitchen for longer than half an hour. There are great ideas online. Alternatively, collect the names and numbers of takeaway restaurants in your area that deliver.

Disclaimer: This list makes it sound all practical and effective, like you’re planning for an alien invasion and everyone’s strapping on their tinfoil hats and filling up their water guns. It’s not quite like that, unfortunately. This involves things like finding a quiet place to slow your breathing, or having someone you can text or call who you know will say soothing things. It’s having an album on your phone filled with hilarious pictures and forcing yourself to look at them, engage with them, and try to make them the centre of your focus. It’s a comedy playlist or a meditation mix. It’s a cold glass of water and a soothing song. Tinfoil hats entirely optional. It’s important to remember also that this is nothing to be ashamed or embarrassed about – this is how SO many of our human brains are put together, all squashy and scared and needing a bit of extra protection. It’s normal – it’s just really annoying. It’s just human brain-atomy. Which is a word I made up. With my squashy, weird, lovely brain. It did that.

3. On bad days

On bad days you just have to survive.

On bad days you are allowed to cry for hours, or sleep until the afternoon, or feel as though the sky is falling.

On bad days the sky does not fall.

On bad days the sky stays put, perfectly untroubled and unchanged by how you feel down here on the surface of this strange world.

On bad days you will feel like you’re not meant to be here.

On bad days you will think about the ways it hurts. You’ll go inside the hurt and see nothing but endless dark endlessness. You’ll remember every single mistake you’ve ever made. You’ll think about the world without you in it. You’ll imagine that the world would be better like this.

On bad days this will be wrong. On good days, too. On all days, it will be wrong. You are always welcome here. You are here to be here. You are here for a reason. Perhaps that reason is just to make it through and find your peace. Who knows. But there is a reason.

On bad days you just have to make it from one end to the other. You don’t have to achieve any more than that. You just have to hold it together as best as you can. You can escape from work or school or university, you can make a dozen excuses if you need to, you can cry in the bathroom and fall apart on the drive home later.

On bad days you just have to live minute to minute, and trust those minutes to make themselves into hours, of which there are only ever twenty-four in a single day – however truly, truly terrible that day is.

On bad days every single bit of progress you’ve made in recovery still counts.

On bad days you just have to survive.

On bad days you do survive.

On bad days that’s enough.

How To Come Alive Again: A Guide to Killing Your Monsters by Beth McColl is available now from Unbound Press, £14.99.

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Interior design is one of those grown-up projects we tell ourselves we'll eventually get around to when we actually own our own homes. But, the thing is, fixing up our currently rented or shared-spaces doesn't need to be indefinitely delayed for fear of budget- or landlord-restrictions. Joanna Thornhill, a London-based interior stylist, writer, and former serial-renter, gave us her expert advice on all of our small-space renter woes — and also turned a few of our former design ideas upside down.

The title of Thornhill's most recent book, My Bedroom is an Office: & Other Interior Design Dilemmas, made us (and our cramped apartments) feel refreshingly seen. "I've been a serial renter in all sorts, from tiny one-bed flats to room share or house shares with several other people, so I've always had limitations as to what I've been able to do myself decor-wise," she shared with us. "How can I decorate this room — that I don't own and I may only live in for another year — in a way that's not going to upset my landlord, but will still lift me up and make me happier?" With a background in set-styling, Thornhill was able to solve these design puzzles from a temporary photoshoot-style approach and liberating outlook that, "you're not creating something that's meant to last forever." In essence, the writer-stylist showcases how interior design does not always equate to permanent-ownership — and getting creative with temporary interiors is actually quite fun.

From structural to personal-charm tips and more, we're covering eight of Thornhill's design solutions from her relatable guide book and pairing them with their shoppable counterparts ahead. Scroll on to get started with your own temporary-home redesign — and to learn why reflective peel-and-stick wallpaper is VIP, and how filling small-spaces with small-furniture is a big mistake.

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Quite like Eve (Sandra Oh), I can't tell if I'm terrified or charmed by Killing Eve 's Villanelle (Jodie Comer). One minute she's smiling at a young child in an ice cream shop, the next she's smashing their sundae on the floor. Whether it's love or hate, I'm hypnotised, and it's not just because of Comer's incredible performance, but also the research done by creator Phoebe Waller-Bridge ahead of the first season.

The second season of the hit show drops this Sunday in America (we're still waiting for our UK release date) and ahead of the release, Waller-Bridge spoke about how the 14-time BAFTA-nominated show came together — and it starts with something to which all true-crime fans can relate.

“I fell into a Google hole around female assassins,” she told the New York Times, pointing specifically to an interview with convicted killer Angela Simpson. In March of 2012, Simpson was sentenced after her guilty plea for (warning, this gets graphic) stabbing, strangling, beating, dismembering, and setting pieces of a man on fire.

Simpson said as much in a video that ended up providing significant inspiration for Villanelle, in which the 36-year-old frankly answers questions about the killing in a way so calm and clear that it defies all conceptions of how a murderer behaves.

"She sounds more like a psycho than anyone has ever sounded," Waller-Bridge said of the interview.

There were other pieces to the puzzle that is Killing Eve: a 2016 perfume ad, the My Favorite Murder podcast, and the specific cinematography in No Country For Old Men, the NYT reports.

It's the perfect potion, mixed just right, that ended up making this:

Understandably, we're impatient waiting to learn more.

Killing Eve returns for season 2 in America on Sunday 7th April, and will be broadcast in the UK later this year.

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Jewellery can sometimes feel like an afterthought. Whether a pearl necklace or a colourful bracelet, jewellery is usually the last item we add to our looks. And more often than not, we skip it all together. I only recently started taking out my everyday earrings and choosing a different pair based on my outfit.

Jewellery trends are even harder to navigate. They're quieter than clothing trends and they can take a few seasons to stick. But this spring, jewellery is enjoying an extra fun, extra colourful, extra extra revival.

We have emerging jewellery brands to thank for what I'm calling The Great Jewels Renaissance. From rainbow necklaces to "I can hear the ocean" shell earrings, designers are proving that jewellery can be just as fun as clothing. Pile on the jewels without having to consider yourself a maximalist! Wear pearls even though you don't live in Kensington! The world is literally your oyster.

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Leomie Anderson is the newest Victoria's Secret Angel. The Jamaican-born, London-bred supermodel announced the news on Instagram Thursday, writing: "This is something I was even scared to dream about because I never thought it would come true but I am insanely excited to announce that I am Victoria’s Secret’s newest ANGEL!" She joins models Barbara Palvin and Alexina Graham as the latest Angels to be announced by the lingerie brand this year.

With her new appointment, Leomie becomes the sixth Black model in history to become a Victoria's Secret Angel since the brand introduced the sector in 1997. While every Victoria's Secret model enjoys a certain level of exposure and prestige, the Angel delineation is reserved for an elite few. Angels are the faces of the brand, with air-tight contracts, staggering paychecks, and unprecedented notoriety. It's an important distinction because historically, Angels have been overwhelmingly white. There have only been 6 Black Victoria's Secret Angels (including Leomie) out of 40, and there's never been one Asian Victoria's Secret Angel.

View this post on Instagram

Mate I am still in shock... this is something I was even scared to dream about because I never thought it would come true but I am insanely excited to announce that I am Victoria’s Secret’s newest ANGEL!! I can’t even believe it... Thank you to God, My fusion family, Ed, Monica, John, Sophie, Michelle and everyone else who made this once far fetched dream a reality ❤️

A post shared by Leomie Anderson (@leomieanderson) on Apr 4, 2019 at 6:06am PDT

With Leomie as the newest Angel, Victoria's Secret is taking a small step forward in elevating an inclusive set of spokespeople. But more can and should be done. After CEO Ed Razek's inflammatory comments about excluding transgender and plus-size models, it's disheartening to see that they've made no effort to cast models with different sizes and gender identities since. And fans are becoming more and more disillusioned with the brand: over the last 2 years, the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show lost half its viewing audience and the 2018 show saw its lowest ratings ever. Still, Leomie's appointment could point toward a more promising future.

Leomie has walked in four consecutive Victoria's Secret Fashion Shows, and has become one of the brand's most recognisable faces. In addition to her work with the lingerie behemoth, she is an in-demand runway model, walking for brands like Savage x Fenty, Tommy Hilfiger, and Jeremy Scott at Fashion Weeks all over the world. She's also the designer and founder of L.A.P.P. the brand, a line of athleisure loved by celebs like Rihanna and Jasmine Sanders. And finally, Leomie's a proud and vocal activist, advocating for representation and mental health in the fashion industry, and amplifying women's voices through her popular blog, L.A.P.P.

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