Many of us are entering 2026 with a more measured, conscious approach to our life and what success means than we might have experienced before. After years of reacting to global shocks and rising costs, we now crave steadier health, career and money choices. Choices that reduce worry rather than fuel it. Across the UK, many of us are revisiting what success really is, rather than what looks impressive on paper.

Thinking of making you working life more successful? This year invites you to act with intention instead of urgency. When we combine realistic goals with small, repeatable actions, change stops feeling like a gamble, and starts to feel manageable, even energising.

Rethinking success: career wellbeing and skill growth

You no longer need to chase relentless ambition to feel successful. UK research shows that 53 % of professionals want to earn more in 2026, while 37 % prioritise reducing stress, which signals a shift toward balance and stability. You see this in practice when you focus on skills that protect your income and your energy, such as digital literacy or communication.

Learning in short weekly sessions fits around work and family, and you gain confidence as competence grows. You also benefit when you define clear boundaries at work, because predictable hours and fewer late evenings give you space to recover and think creatively. Choose one skill that strengthens both your earning potential and your sense of control, then build it steadily.

Micro habits and reflective goal setting

You achieve more when you stop demanding dramatic transformation from yourself. Micro habits, tiny actions repeated daily, support lasting change better than sweeping resolutions. A five-minute evening reflection helps you notice patterns in mood and focus, which then guides smarter adjustments. When you link goals to how you want days to feel, rather than distant outcomes, you stay engaged even when motivation dips.

Writing a short weekly note about what worked and what drained you keeps goals flexible and realistic. Commit to one micro habit that fits naturally into your routine and review its effect after a month.

Smart finances: saving, investing and holiday planning

Money worries ease when you plan with clarity rather than avoidance. You could benefit from separating savings into clear pots, as you reduce the temptation to dip into funds meant for security or rest. When you automate transfers just after payday, saving stops relying on willpower.

Planning ahead for trips, including Greece holidays that reward early booking, spreads costs and protects everyday cash flow. Set up simple accounts for emergencies, holidays, future plans like weddings and long-term goals like bathroom renovations, so your money supports your life instead of adding friction.

Active pulse: community driven and accessible fitness

You stay active more easily when movement feels social and achievable. UK fitness trends for 2026 highlight Pilates, run clubs, pickleball and virtual fitness classes. These formats lower barriers because they welcome different fitness levels and build accountability through community. You gain energy and routine without the pressure of perfection, which makes consistency more likely.

Joining a local group also expands your social circle, adding motivation on days when discipline runs low. Join one community-based activity that fits your schedule and commit to showing up regularly.

silvermagazine

If you’d like to receive a regular mini-magazine direct to your inbox with a selection of editorial features to read at your leisure, please sign up for our newsletter. We also run the odd competition and offer and whatnot, and newsletter members get the heads-up first.

The post How 2026 could be your money success year appeared first on Silver Magazine.

Kenneth Branagh – who plays the wily Hercule Poirot – admits lockdown has given him clarity and a vision for the future that he didn’t perhaps expect.

In an industry where so many of the major players have sat back and waited for lockdown inertia to pass, Branagh is a director, producer, and actor who takes a rather different view.

Making the most of a situation

“Opportunities are made out of unfortunate events,” he begins. “Covid was horrendous, and deeply upsetting, for all of us. But I, like many others, was able to take away from it a sense of calm. It gave me time, offered a reset of a few ideas and, I hope, has helped me come back a letter person.”

On the evidence of Death on the Nile, 61-year-old Branagh has undoubtedly come back a better producer and actor. Although the point is lost slightly when you realise the bulk of this movie was completed pre-lockdown. It was only the closing of cinemas worldwide that meant the big-budget production – estimated to be in the region of £90million – sat in the can for so long.

That we’re now being treated to an impeccable piece of cinema, straight from the pen of Agatha Christie, will be a relief to Branagh, even though this project is one of four of his finding an audience this year.

There’s the collosal success that is Belfast, a voyage into his own mind as a boy growing up in Northern Ireland; TV series This Sceptred Isle, in which he plays Boris Johnson; and a voiceover role in animated adventure Fireheart.

Scene from Death on the Nile

Bringing personality to the role

Where Death on the Nile succeeds is in evading the various traps that are laid when retelling a story many people know. And in bringing something new to a famous character, as did John Malkovich.

“You must believe you can do something different and better or, without sounding arrogant, don’t bother,” fires Branagh, whose countless other films include Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets, Valkyrie, Thor, Jack Ryan: Shadow Recruit, and Murder on the Orient Express.

There is no point me being the same Hercule Poirot that, say, David Suchet, would be. You have to be your own character

“And from a personal perspective, playing Hercule Poirot himself, I knew there was a huge amount of scrutiny coming my way.

“I had to undertake lots of research; lots of looking at how other actors have gone about the character. But also lots of searching and yearning for originality.

“There is no point me being the same Hercule Poirot that, say, David Suchet, would be. You have to be your own character. You have to really study Agatha Christie’s words and accept that the interpretation we have seen on our screens before is only one interpretation. Don’t get me wrong, it’s a bloody good one, but if all you felt you were going to do was replicate what someone else had done on screen, then you really should just go home and put a film on.”

The pressure to succeed

With such a colossal budget, there was added pressure to make the film not just an artistic success, but a commercial one. Although with a cast boasting the likes of Gal Gadot, Russell Brand, Letitia Wright, Dawn French and the somewhat controversial Armie Hammer, the box office was buzzing in its opening weekend.

“I think for us … it’s such an iconic story, and arguably one that has been confined to stage or screen. Barring one previous film adaptation from 1978 which, by the way, won an Oscar and a BAFTA.

“We’re not saying this hasn’t been done properly in the past. Yet what that extra finance gives you is detail and delivery. It’s the fine details that really begin to shine when you have a bigger budget to play with. The luxury of doing something really good. And knowing you have the time to go back and take another look if it hasn’t quite come through the way you had expected. It’s quality control.”

Quality is certainly a buzzword Branagh. He’s led many early artistic endeavours by either directing or starring in film adaptations of Shakespeare’s plays. Those include Henry V – for which he was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actor and Best Director – Much Ado About Nothing, Othello, Hamlet and As You Like It. And this is still true despite how, within a generation, technology has taken forward the possibilities of film and TV into whole new realms.

Branagh in Death on the Nile

Romanticising the past

“I think that really hit home with Death on the Nile,” says Branagh. “That era possessed such an arty, seductive innocence. And it’s frightening to think how, in such a short space of time, the whole world has changed.

“I do understand when people become philosophical or maudlin about this romantic past age that clearly we are never going to get back.

“What I would say to that is yes, it was a romantic time. But we have substituted that for a new era of entertainment and connectivity and, actually, knowledge.”

He continues: “Life is also incredibly more convenient now. In the past to do the most basic things without technology could actually be profoundly difficult. people were largely uncontactable.

“People could lose their lives on the Nile… and almost get away with it!”

Richard Aldhous

The post Kenneth Branagh on his Hercule Poirot appeared first on Silver Magazine.

I didn’t think I’d be the sort of person to explore how to get into crypto. I’d heard a bit about it but had never been attracted.

Some years ago, a mate of mine called Daz told me to buy Bitcoin. To give this some framework, Daz is a serial agitator and social disruptor, with a background in challenging ‘The Man’ and seeking alternative lifestyles.

He explained how it was digital, and wasn’t 3D like the tenner in my pocket. It was created by a mysterious figure called Satoshi Nakamoto whom nobody knew, and it was going to disrupt the standardised currencies of the world. He talked about blockchains and wallets and I sort of understood it. “Anarchic,” I thought.

Some of this sounded attractive. Some of it sounded like nonsense. It wasn’t that I didn’t believe Daz, it just sounded vague, I wasn’t really interested. At the time, one bitcoin was under a dollar. Jump forward to April 2021 and Bitcoin hit an all-time high of $63,707.34. If I’d invested even a hundred quid then, I’d have been sitting on nearly half a million at that point – around £460,000.

That’s a pretty good yield for a ten-year investment, at such a low stake. But this is an extreme example, and Bitcoin has been through many ups and downs during that time. Summer 2021 saw it drop down to around the $31,000 mark. But understandably I find myself wishing I’d taken a leap of faith. Sorry Daz, you did tell me.

OK crypto, let’s have a look then…

Fast forward to 2020 and the pandemic, and I found myself with a sudden interest in investing money. I figured airline shares were crashing, but would rise again, maybe a good punt. So I rang another mate of mine, Steve, a futures broker. What did he think? Should I buy into Easyjet? Their shares were through the floor.

He had a look and advised wait a bit, it would go lower. We talked about how I could buy some shares, and how it all worked. He was really helpful, giving me calm and measured advice. This is a man who has traded and made millions for his clients, I trusted him implicitly. So what did I do next?

I bought Dogecoin.

Steve called. “So, you’ve essentially gone through the process of looking at a fairly sensible investment with a safe yield, to buying a shitcoin with no development team and no utility options?”

I still don’t know why I made that decision. Perhaps because it was so cheap. Definitely because the memes on Twitter about it were hilarious. Partly because I’d seen Elon Musk shilling it. And I liked the idea – it was fun. So I bought a ton of it at $0.03, and joined the #DogeArmy.

Steve called. “So, you’ve essentially gone through the process of looking at a fairly sensible investment with a safe yield, to buying a shitcoin with no development team and no utility options?” he asked. I had to admit that yes, that was exactly what I’d done.

But I didn’t care; I was having a ball. Dogecoin was rising, and I figured I’d invested so little, so I didn’t care. It was keeping me amused, spending hours on Twitter laughing at Doge memes and watching my wallet grow (glossary of crypto terms at the bottom). I was also amused at how irritated the Bitcoin maxis were getting. One Bitcoiner I know posted in a chat group, “why won’t Doge just go away?!!” I’m afraid I chuckled.

Dogecoin continued to rise, so in a fit of being sensible, I bought into Bitcoin, using my Doge profits. And then some Ether because hey why not. And when Dogecoin hit around the $0.70 mark I had some kind of God-given flash of insight and sold enough to pay off my original stake. The timing was perfect – it’s dropped steadily since then, and currently sits at around $0.19 mark. Basically now I am playing with house money across the board. I can tell you, it makes the game a lot less stressful.

Shitcoins can ruin lives… really fast

Not everyone has been lucky like me. Many bought into Doge when it was close to its ATH, buying in at $0.69, thinking it would go ‘to the moon’, and then watching their money disappear. Many have lost a great deal. And not just on Doge – on all sorts of shitcoins. The scams are myriad.

So this brings me to the point of crypto. A lot of where the heart of this lies is in its usage. Are you buying crypto because you want to decentralise finance and take the power away from banks and the old boys club? Or are you buying it as an investment, like you would buy gold, or stocks?

Are you buying crypto because you want to decentralise finance… Or are you buying it as an investment?

The original Bitcoiners didn’t set up to be a commodity. The idea was to take away the power, to have a currency that people could use to buy things, tip each other, purchase stuff… really stick it to The Man. The way all cryptocurrencies work is that ‘nobody’ is in charge. Anyone can mine coins, with the right kit, and anyone can work on development; nobody runs the game. But increasingly that’s not how it all feels to me.

I’m no expert, so this is all just my opinion, but it seems to me that Bitcoin is leaning towards acting like the very thing it railed against. Bitcoin maxis are consistently aggravated by altcoins taking over some of their market capital. They see Bitcoin and its finite supply as the future of de-fi, and for a currency that’s supposed to not be centralised, it really does kinda feel like they want to be front and centre. And just like fiat, there is a small number of people who own a very large proportion of the currency in circulation. It’s also very male oriented. So how is this different to banks and fiat billionaires?

At the time of writing, Bitcoin has just been adopted by El Salvador as a legal tender, to mixed reception, and it looks like Paraguay is going the same way. Poorer countries are seeing Bitcoin as a way of escaping the dominance of the dollar and build themselves some independence. But it’s clear not everyone in El Salvador is happy – the need for internet access and a device to actually use Bitcoin prevents many of them being able to use the currency, so mass adoption still has some way to go.

Have you planned financially for your death?

So is it worth throwing everything at Bitcoin?

This is a hard question, which goes back to the ‘why you are in it’ consideration. Bitcoin maxis would say yes, of course. And there’s an elegance in just stacking sats, as they call it, and watching it grow. Bitcoin is by far the most stable cryptocurrency – you are far less likely to lose your investment.

But if you’re in there for the fun of it too, like me, then dabbling with other coins can be attractive. I’ve got lucky a couple of times, buying low and selling high, but it takes time, watching and checking the markets. I’m increasingly falling into a more hands-off pattern. I hold Bitcoin, Ether and a few other bits and bobs, but I’m done with the dicking about. I got lucky, I’m not going to push it. I’m just glad the money I have tied up in my portfolio isn’t something I’m relying on, or risking.

Other factors

There is SO MUCH I’m not including in this article about Bitcoin and the cryptocurrency world, and how it all works, and what FUD does, and what the four phases of investment mean and so on. But I’ve only so much space here. I think another article might have to happen.

But I’m not a crypto millionaire. In fact, aside from cleverly selling my Doge at its ATH my crypto wallet is noodling along okay, but I’m not rich out of it. I’m a classic noob – I’ve made mistakes. But I didn’t panic sell, and what goes down, generally comes back up again. So it’s important to have ‘diamond hands’ and some patience!

Anyway, the biggest bit of advice I have for anyone thinking of getting involved is only to invest what you can afford, and do your own research. And hopefully we can all go to the moon some day. I just don’t know if it will be Bitcoin that takes us.

 @SamHL

Say what?!

Bitcoin maxi (maximalist) – a coiner who believes only Bitcoin is valid
Shitcoin – coins with little stability, likely to pump and burn fast
Altcoins – alternatives to maincoin (Bitcoin) that are a bit more serious
Fiat – ‘normal’ government-issue money
De-Fi – decentralised finance
Dogecoin – a shitcoin based on the Doge meme, originally created to mock the crypto world
ATH – all time high
Sats – short for Satoshi, the smallest denomination of Bitcoin – 1 sat = 0.00000001 BTC
Noob – a person new to the game
Whale – a person or body (such as a trading platform) who holds a huge amount of coin
FUD – fear, uncertainty, doubt
Diamond hands – when you steel yourself and hold your coins and don’t panic sell

Sam Harrington-Lowe

Sam is Silver’s founder and editor-in-chief. She’s largely responsible for organising all the things, but still finds time to do the odd bit of writing. Not enough though. Send help.

The post So you want to know how to get into crypto? appeared first on Silver Magazine.

Travelling the world as a senior executive responsible for major projects may sound like an exciting way to live. But the price is high, and especially so when it comes to home and family. If you’ve thought that it’s too late to have a new career when you’re over 50, read on.

I wanted to spend more time with my family. So I decided to do something for myself

“For over 30 years I worked in the theatre, film and TV industries, much of it travelling the world, working for multi-national organisations,” says David. “I was working in a senior capacity for one company and was becoming very disillusioned with it. The owners were making promises to staff that were not being met. My creative staff were not being valued financially.

“Then the business collapsed. I had to decide what to do next. My wife and I had a child late in life, and I wanted to spend more time with my family. So I decided to do something for myself.”

Finding a partner in crime

David had been friends with York-based homeware retailer Angus McArthur for many years, helping to theme his stores. Angus too was getting bored and was thinking of selling up.

“I’d been selling contemporary homewares for over 20 years. More and more sales were going online, and I wanted to do something different.”

Their solution was somewhat unusual – ghosts! For many years, Angus had been involved in the Great York Ghost Hunt, hiding tiny ghosts around the city at Halloween. People purchased trail maps and tried to find them.

“York is known as the city of a thousand ghosts, and therefore often referred to as the most haunted city in Europe. It was almost unthinkable that there had been nowhere to purchase a ‘York ghost’,” says David.

A gap in the market for ghosts!

Countless visitors to York take part in ghost walks and stay in haunted hotels. Over 30,000 Great York Ghost hunt trails were being printed every Halloween. People were asking where they could get buy the tiny ghosts.

Angus had noticed that there was a growth in people looking for ‘retail theatre’; an experience which could not be obtained online

It was clear there was a potential opportunity to create an iconic souvenir with an element of retail theatre. Both in the sale and production of the souvenirs as well as allied events such as storytelling.

The duo set out to revitalise the souvenir sector in York, by creating an innovative shop concept utilising Angus’s retail skills and David’s heritage sector expertise.

“We noticed that there was a massive gap in the market for affordable, handmade souvenirs. In the medieval period, people used to visit York and buy a pilgrim badge to prove they had been there. These badges would have been made in a workshop above a shop in the Shambles,” said David.

Angus had noticed that there was a growth in people looking for ‘retail theatre’; an experience which could not be obtained online, involving a unique product.

Photos: Charlotte Graham

What is retail theatre?!

Retail theatre is a display, or even whole shopping experience that includes a theatrical element. So, not just straightforward retail shopping. Purchasing of your items is part of an experiential event.

David saw scope for a ghostly concept tailored to this experiental demand. Something they could offer providing something special designed to attract the attention of the thousands of tourists flocking to York every year.

“We wanted to make our souvenirs unique, a symbol of the city offering affordable luxury from choosing, through to packaging and the total retail experience.

“Instead of tourist tat, our ghosts are quality souvenirs that are handmade in and belong to York. It is an old-fashioned business model. We have not tried to do a Disney style ghost. This is sympathetic to York; an authentic product to which people can relate,” explains Angus.

The result was the creation of the York Ghost Merchants, which opened last year in the atmospheric medieval Shambles last year. And the shop sells just one product – ghosts.

Enjoying the atmospheric experience

Photos: Charlotte Graham

It looks nothing like other typical souvenir shops in busy heritage cities. There is a traditional Georgian exterior complete with small, leaded windows. Customers step inside and are greeted by the sight of oak-panelled walls, display cases and the serried ranks of large and small ghosts.

The ticking of a grandfather clock is the only sound, apart from a formal greeting from a smartly dressed gentleman wearing clothes more akin to those seen over a century ago – including a bowler hat and apron.

All the ghosts are hand produced on the premises in a workshop, just above the shop. Made from resin, each ghost is totally unique, as colours are hand mixed, applied in varying ways and textures. Customers browse and look for their personal choice.

Once shoppers have chosen their special ghost, it’s placed on a podium hidden in the walls, photographed, and wrapped in specially decorated tissue paper. After that, it’s boxed for its homeward journey – which starts in a little train taking it to the door for the customer to collect.

To add to the retail fun, customers can explore the Cabinet of Curiosities and try to find numerous tiny hidden ghosts in a variety of locations.

Considering launching a new business? Tips on raising investment

 

The individuality of the experience paid off

I had a gut feeling that it would work. We spent a lot of time making sure everything was right from the beginning

Setting up a shop of this kind was nervewracking. Having created something totally unique, selling just one product, they both knew was a big risk. Especially when two families were totally dependent on the income.

David admits, “I was worried. The Shambles is not a cheap street on which to start a business selling just one product. It needed a huge leap of faith.”

Angus had no such reservations. “I had a gut feeling that it would work. We spent a lot of time making sure everything was right from the beginning. And then on the first day, David looked at me, and we looked at the great queue at the till. And it was clear it was going to work. We have some people who have bought over 60 ghosts! The collectible nature of the ghosts appeals.”

And then 2020 happened…

Having just got into their stride as specialist souvenir retailers, the events of 2020 created an unexpected problem. When the pandemic hit in March, the store had to close. Trading came to an abrupt stop.

Undeterred, still David and Angus decided to focus on developing their concept still further. “We worked out a way to translate the experience of The Ghost Merchants into digital media.

“This has increased our versatility and given us an extra business stream we can build on. We sell small batches of ghosts at a specific time in the week. So, for example, at 7pm on a Friday we might release a batch. Within a few minutes we sell everything; demand exceeds supply. We tell people to come back next week!”

Never looking back

I know wholeheartedly we made the right decision. We have a much better life now

Neither have any reservations about the huge career changing jump they made, despite it meaning a new career over the age of 50. It has revitalised their lifestyle, and enthusiasm. It’s a far cry from the restrictions of their previous ‘jobs’. They also both acknowledge that it’s a blend of past and future that has made this work.

Angus points out, “We are showing that retail can work. We have reinvented the souvenir shopping experience, by looking back at the past.”

David adds, “York does seem very parochial after travelling the world, but I like it. I know wholeheartedly we made the right decision. We have a much better life now, not working all hours of the clock. I see my wife and son, and we meet a lot of lovely people coming into the shop.

“It is a very British eccentricity and it appeals to our customers. We had never seen this as an international business, but the pandemic has proved that it can be. And as a result, we have quite a following overseas. So now we plan to keep moving both sides of the business in future.”

Angela Youngman

The post New career – going back to the past for inspiration appeared first on Silver Magazine.

Dee Caffari, 47, has sailed around the world six times. She’s the first woman to have sailed single-handed and non-stop around the world in both directions. And is the only woman to have sailed non-stop around the world a total of three times.

In 2006 Dee became the first woman to sail solo, non-stop, around the world against the prevailing winds and currents and was awarded an MBE in recognition of her achievement.

If anyone has experience of spending long spells in her own company, for months on end, it’s Dee Caffari.

Staying strong mentally

Dealing with isolation as a single person is tough, and loneliness and anxiety can become constant factors. Without other people to spend time with, we can easily find it affecting our mental health.

“I have self-isolated on two occasions,” she explains. “Once when I took part in the Vendee Globe I spent three months at sea alone, and on the Aviva Challenge I was alone at sea for six months.

[perfectpullquote align=”right” bordertop=”false” cite=”” link=”” color=”” class=”” size=””]Human contact and support are important at all times, but particularly in times of crisis or stress[/perfectpullquote]

“My home for that time was a 72ft boat with very few creature comforts and nothing in the way of entertainment, apart from my karaoke skills.

“Of course, I am well aware that my isolation was one of choice, and for very different reasons to the situation we find ourselves in now due to the Coronavirus. However, by sharing the strategies and learnings from being alone for these long periods of time, I hope that they will resonate with people that find themselves in a situation that is unfamiliar and scary.

“As mindful humans, we know we need to be physically isolated right now, but that doesn’t mean we have to be mentally isolated. Human contact and support are important at all times, but particularly in times of crisis or stress. Now, more than ever, we need to look out for each other.”

DEE’S ISOLATION COPING HACKS

Keep communicating
This is reassuring for everyone. If you are the one self-isolating, it’s a morale boost to know people care, but it’s equally important for your friends and family to know that you are okay. Stay in touch and ask for help if you need it. A five minute chat once a day could really lift someone’s spirits and be something they look forward to.

Get some routine
Spending 24/7 alone is alien to many of us and will be a challenge for people that thrive on the company of others. Extroverts get their energy from others, so a lack of stimulation may lead to a drop in mood. For most of us, going to work, school or the gym is part of daily routine and now we have to fill that time. Having and sticking to a routine of some sort will help as it provides a focus and a reason to get going for the day. Having something to do will also make the time pass more quickly.

Make technology work for you
There are so many ways we can communicate these days; this is the time to make use of them. Skype, Facetime, email, text, phone calls, social media platforms – they’re all great ways to stay in touch.

Focus only on what you can control
Don’t waste energy worrying about things that are outside your control. We are bombarded with information via the media and we do need to take on board the news that is being distributed. However, if you find that listening to or reading the news is increasing your anxiety or stress levels, then limit your exposure to it. Many of us will be seriously impacted financially through job loses or lack of work. You are not alone. Make a manageable plan and seek help if you are feeling overwhelmed.

Be grateful
Focusing on the good will have a positive effect on your mental health. When you are having a tough day and finding it hard to cope, focus on getting through the next day or even the next few hours, rather than weeks or months. The sun will continue to rise and set. This situation will pass.

Look for the opportunities and be creative
Is there a project that you have wanted to take on but never had the time? Perhaps a bestseller in your head just waiting to be written? Is there work that you could do on a temporary basis? Necessity is the mother of invention, so perhaps now is the time to embark on something new.

Adapt to the new environment
As a round the world sailor, I am used to my environment changing very quickly and having to adapt to forces that are outside of my control. In the coming weeks and months, restrictions on our lives and the effects of this virus will no doubt make us feel angry, upset, worried and scared. These are natural emotions but will use mental energy. Accepting a situation allows you to think more clearly and calmly. Don’t fight it.

More than anything, she says, this is a time to be pragmatic and realistic. A time to embrace change.

“The future will be different. That is the reality and we may as well embrace it. Mother Nature has flicked the reset button. We have an opportunity to re-evaluate and change our behaviour for the better.

“We are all too aware in today’s world that the only thing we can be certain of is change. Our ability to adapt to this change is what will define us. The current global pandemic is revealing that the majority of us fear the unknown and our reaction is to panic. Let’s come together in this time of adversity and support each other.”

Dee Caffari blogs regularly for Bluewatergroup.com

silvermagazine

If you’d like to receive a regular mini-magazine direct to your inbox with a selection of editorial features to read at your leisure, please sign up for our newsletter. We also run the odd competition and offer and whatnot, and newsletter members get the heads-up first.

The post Isolating alone is scary and lonely. Advice on coping from a solo yachtswoman appeared first on Silver Magazine.

Born in Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, and now living in West Sussex, Graham Minett spent almost 45 years working in secondary education, most recently as part of the headship team at The Angmering School, where he worked for 25 years. Latterly working in a part-time role for the school, he was able to develop his writing alongside teaching, and a new career in fiction-writing was born. After his first two novels were well received, a couple of years ago he said goodbye to education for good, and became a full-time novelist. We wondered just how terrifying that might have been…

“Writing was something I’d wanted to do all my life, but other important considerations – relationships, raising a family, work, sport – got in the way. Then, in 2006, I decided to do a two-year part-time MA in Creative Writing at The University of Chichester.

“It was an expensive decision. I also had no guarantees that even gaining the MA would enable me to find an agent and a publisher for my work because, good as the course is, the number who make the breakthrough remains a relatively small percentage. I felt from very early on, however, that it was just what I needed.

“Being a mature student was an issue only for me. No one else was bothered by it – in fact, there were a few people on the course who were either the same age as I was, or not much younger, although most were in their twenties or thirties. I’d say it took me a few weeks to adjust and feel totally at home but there was never any suggestion from anyone that my age was necessarily a factor.

[perfectpullquote align=”left” bordertop=”false” cite=”” link=”” color=”” class=”” size=””]”I found myself with an opening chapter that was clearly very effective, but no idea what the rest of the storyline might be!”[/perfectpullquote]

“After the course, I won a national competition for opening chapters of a novel with a piece I’d created as part of my MA for one of the assessed modules. The first prize, apart from a cash award, was a chance to work online with an editor in London to finish the novel – which is what would eventually become my debut novel, The Hidden Legacy.

So how did that become a book?

“I found myself with an opening chapter that was clearly very effective, but I had no idea what the rest of the storyline might be! I also had a strong female lead character in mind but the opening chapter was very much 1960s, whereas Ellen belonged quite clearly to the first decade of this century.

“The first task, therefore, was to come up with two storylines and a complex plot that would bring them both together. To do this I used a board, Post-its, postcards and drawing pins and mapped the whole thing out before I wrote another word. I knew not only exactly how many scenes there would be but also what each scene would do to move the action forward and also what it would reveal of Ellen’s character.

“When it was finished to the editor’s satisfaction, I sent the completed novel to an agent, along with a letter detailing the fact that I had done the MA and also won a national competition with the same opening chapter I was now sending to him. He phoned me as soon as he’d finished reading it and asked me to go to Oxford to discuss it with him. He had a contract there waiting for me, and I signed it before I left.

“He then recommended it to Mark Smith, head of UK fiction at Bonnier in Marylebone, who gave me a two-book deal, which has now been extended to two further books. The first two, The Hidden Legacy and Lie In Wait, have both been published in eBook and paperback format and sold far better than was expected from a debut author, both reaching a high Amazon ranking and earning ‘book of the month’ deals.

[perfectpullquote align=”left” bordertop=”false” cite=”” link=”” color=”” class=”” size=””]”I still have to pinch myself when I see my books in airports and railway stations and in bookshops in town”[/perfectpullquote]

“The whole experience has been every bit as exciting as you might imagine. I still have to pinch myself at times when I see my books in airports and railway stations and in bookshops in town. I haven’t yet seen someone on a beach or on a train reading a copy of it but I’m looking forward to that moment when it comes.

“I’ve recently completed book four. I have no idea what the books will be about, but my storylines always start with a character. I always try to write the kind of novels I enjoy reading; something that treats the readers with a bit of intelligence, allowing them to work things through without spelling everything out and providing a central mystery that has layers that need to be peeled away.

“I just want to keep on writing, build up as big a loyal following as possible, maybe see one of my novels optioned for TV and sell a few foreign rights. Aside from that, if I could meet Maggie O’Farrell and Kate Atkinson and spend an evening talking to them about writing, that would be about as good as it gets.”

New Tricks
Graham’s top tips for starting something new

• Don’t let age be a barrier in any way. Most people are happy to judge you on what you do. More often than not ageism is in your own head rather than everyone else’s.
• Don’t allow the ‘older you’ to make you too cautious. Obviously use what you’ve learnt over the years but try to stay in touch with the 25-year-old ‘you’ who wasn’t afraid to take a risk or two.
• Whatever you move on to, make use of the massive network you’ve built up over the years. Social media is one thing I always swore I’d never go near but my publishers were right to insist that I get onto Twitter and Facebook and use both of them.

Find books by Graham Minett here

silvermagazine

If you’d like to receive a regular mini-magazine direct to your inbox with a selection of editorial features to read at your leisure, please sign up for our newsletter. We also run the odd competition and offer and whatnot, and newsletter members get the heads-up first.

The post Ever dreamed of becoming a writer? appeared first on Silver Magazine.

Nicole Kidman’s longevity in the film industry is a marker not only for age and experience, but the ability to choose scripts that inspire the actress as much as watching audiences, and she has already given as many bravura performances as any actor can rightfully be expected to deliver in one lifetime. But the last year or two has been an exceptionally rich period for the Australian star.

An Oscar nomination for Lion preceded not only her award-winning work in the critically-acclaimed HBO TV series but also two high profile indie films, The Beguiled, directed by Sofia Coppola, and controversial Greek filmmaker Yorgos Lanthimos’s The Killing of the Sacred Deer. She also has a key role in Jane Campion’s Top of the Lake.

Busy? You bet. But it is Kidman’s portrayal of battered wife Celeste in Big Little Lies that has set Hollywood on fire. Not only has it won her the Globe, it has earned her a best actress Emmy nomination, and many critics have argued that it is perhaps the finest work of her distinguished career.

Accepting her award last night, Kidman said, “The character I play represents something that is the centre of our conversation right now – abuse… I hope we can elicit change through the stories we tell and the way we tell them. Let’s keep the conversation alive. Let’s do it.”

What makes all this this particularly remarkable is that Nicole Kidman is winning such plaudits in a year that saw her turn 50, an age that often spells doom for female movie stars. But the industry is changing, and Nicole is taking advantage of this point in her career to test her limits even further.

“I’m not a people pleaser… I say what I think and I don’t choose roles that are just going to placate”

“I’m blown away,” she says. “For all this confluence of events and success to be happening; that feels really powerful and makes me unbelievably thankful.

“I’m also anxious to keep taking more risks in my work than ever. I’ve always had the kind of attitude where I tell myself ‘why not?’ when it comes to working with new directors and wanting to explore different kinds of stories and characters, so that’s what I’m doing.

“Emotionally, I still feel so open and curious and want to always be jumping off the cliff with the abandonment of a 21-year-old. I’ve fallen off that cliff a few times,” she laughs. “But my husband reminds me I’m not a people-pleaser, because I say what I think and I don’t choose roles that are going to placate, and that’s just the way I was raised – to stand up for what you believe and not fit in.”

That attitude certainly applies to her film, The Killing of the Sacred Deer, in which she plays the wife of a surgeon (Colin Farrell), and watches as a strange 16-year-old boy enters their lives and exerts a mysterious hold on their family. Lanthimos (Dogtooth, The Lobster) is notorious for his profoundly disturbing narrative journeys and Kidman was anxious to enter his bizarre universe.

“When I was younger, I would try to fit into a formula, but that never worked for me”

“At this stage in my life I want to stay very bold and open, and try things and support filmmakers that I believe in. Yorgos (Lanthimos) is one of those directors who has a very unique filmmaking style- I’m totally up for taking risks… and supporting people who are trying different things.”

“When I was younger, I would try to fit into a formula, but that never worked for me. I was being advised to do big American movies, and as soon as I freed myself artistically to follow filmmakers and storyteller, I found my passion.”

An outspoken advocate for women’s rights and in particular a vociferous proponent of equal pay for women in Hollywood, Kidman applies her feminist mindset when co-producing Big Little Lies together with good friend Reese Witherspoon.

Based on the eponymous best-seller by Australian author Liane Moriarty, ‘Big Little…’ not only proved to be a massive critical success but has made TV history in that it was the first ‘lead’ series ever to feature five talented actresses – Nicole Kidman, Reece Witherspoon, Shailene Woodley, Laura Dern, and rising star Zoe Kravitz – in the main starring roles.

“There are five great roles here. For women, it’s very, very rare. I like working with women, but first of all I like to find the right stories. For years I’ve worked to support women in all fields. And I believe in sisterhood. I learned so much from having a feminist mother who in the 1960s who fought for our rights and has always been involved in social work. We are sisters in the world and we have to support each other.”

Playing Celeste was far more physically and psychologically demanding than she expected

Playing the part of Celeste, a mother of twin boys married to Perry (Alexander Skarsgard), an abusive, jet-setting businessman, Kidman invested herself fully in a highly compelling and shattering role. Playing Celeste was far more physically and psychologically demanding than she expected, however.

“It is deeply disturbing playing her,” Kidman observes. “It’s a complicated character and I definitely felt the weight of it. A lot of times I can move away from the character very easily, yet this one I found a lot harder to move away from because it’s a very volatile relationship. They inflict pain on each other and there is an enormous amount of danger. At the end of a day’s shooting I’d go home, sit in the bath and cry.”

Celeste and Perry’s underlying relationship is fraught with psychodrama and that was part of what drew the fearless Aussie actress to the role in the first place: “We wanted it to be complicated. We didn’t want it to be black and white, because so many of these relationships are very complicated. There’s an addictive quality for them – the way in which they’re both culpable, and the way in which they can’t get away from each other, because there is love there… deep love. And they have two children. Which makes it even more difficult for her to see a way out.”

Kidman’s husband was shocked by the toll the series had on her. Nicole, however, wouldn’t have had it any other way

Her insistence on absolute realism not only impressed co-star Witherspoon and director Jean-Marc Vallée (Dallas Buyers Club), but also left Kidman’s husband, singer and former American Idol judge Keith Urban, who was shocked by the toll the series had on her. Nicole, however, wouldn’t have had it any other way. And now it’s back again!

“There’s certain choreography that you need for a violent scene, so that you don’t actually get your cheekbone shattered,” she admits. “But a lot of the time, they’d say, ‘Oh, you can put some pads in your back,’ and I would say, ‘no, because you might be able to see them’, and besides it wouldn’t have been ‘real’“.

After having numerous and lengthy conversations with victims of domestic abuse prior to the filming, she came away with a heightened appreciation of her marriage to Urban. Says Kidman: “Keith and I always say that we are just so lucky to have each other. In this world, to be able to come back to that love and that strength is so nourishing and powerful.”

Married to the singer for the past 11 years, Kidman is as devoted to their happiness as she is looking after their two daughters – Sunday, eight, and Faith, six. They live in Nashville, which is mecca to her husband and his country music roots. Urban is particularly proud of his wife’s work in Big Little Lies:

“Everything about it was done with such a raw authenticity,” he says. “It was extraordinary work and, for me, among some of Nic’s finest work ever. Some of the therapy scenes were just fantastic. What I love especially is it was all them, it was all the girls that made this happen. This wasn’t a project that got brought to Nic or Reese (Witherspoon). This was them — Reese — reading the book, Nic getting on a plane and flying to Australia to meet (author) Liane Moriarty and seeing if they can get their support in securing the rights in getting it made into a series.”

For her part, Kidman is happy that she and Urban have found a pleasant rhythm to their private and professional lives. “As an actress, you’re always trying to balance motherhood with the work you want to do,” Kidman explains. “I’m fortunate in the sense that I’m married to a musician, so our schedules are able to be juggled. I keep it simple in that regard.”

She adds: “I’ve worked a lot, but I don’t have to work. I work because it is still my passion.”

Long may it continue.

Big Little Lies is on Sky/HBO

Richard Aldhous

The post Nicole Kidman on birthdays, Big Little Lies and being 50+ appeared first on Silver Magazine.

I definitely feel fulfilled in my life. I mean, I’ve achieved so much. For womankind, no scrap that, for all of mankind. I’m a freaking ICON for Pete’s sake. Not that I’ve got a Scooby who Pete is; as you all know I’m a one man kind of gal. And yes, I do still see Ken from time to time. I think it’s called ‘friends with benefits’ these days? We used to just call it f*ck buddies.

Anyway, I digress…

I feel like turning 60 is a pivotal time in my life and the ideal opportunity to reflect back on my younger days. If only to brag about all the cool sh*t I’ve done.

1959 – Roman Holiday Barbie, Photo Mattel Inc

I was the first of my kind. A true original, that’s me

Now I am the first to admit that I was a tad naïve back in the day. I was bright (blue) eyed, pony tailed and so excited to be presented to the world in all my monochrome glory. I didn’t think for even a second that maybe the world was not quite ready for a visionary such as myself.

I mean girls must have been sick to death of playing with baby dolls? Feeding them, changing them, rocking them to stop them from crying. Surely there must be more to life as a woman than that?

I was independent. Confident. And ready to show everyone just what I was capable of. And it was all thanks to my creator Ruth Handler. A true visionary if ever there was one. Forward- thinking, innovative and desperate to change the stereotypical, bland world of girl’s toys, she created me in 1959. And neither of us have looked back since.

My first step was to get on the property ladder

Barbie Dream Home 1962 – Photo Mattel Inc

Unheard of for a woman in those days, but that wasn’t going to stop me. I most certainly did not need a man to help me get my first home. No siree! My early unprecedented success meant that I could easily afford to splash out on a super stylish pad for me and my girls to hang out in.

God, we had some great times. Not that I remember all of them, but you know the rules; what happens on tour, stays on tour. Or in this case, what happens in Barbie’s condo, stays in Barbie’s condo.

I walked on the moon before any man did. Armstrong who!?

That’s right. I took a break from all the non-stop partying to take a huge step for womankind everywhere. And obviously I managed to look chic even in space. Well, I did say I wanted to reach for the stars, or at the very least the moon.

in 1965 I literally went galactic in my silver suit, proving that if you can dream it, you can do it.

I bagged myself a super-hot boyfriend

Barbie and Ken 1978 – Photo Mattel Inc

Of course, I didn’t need a man to define me, but when a super-hot one wearing super-tight swimming trunks looks your way, you’d have to be the Ice Queen not to feel a little bit of a quiver down below. Not that I’ve ever been really sure about what I have down there? Something has always seemed to be missing?

Oh well, some things will always remain a mystery, but anyway – that loveable Ken doll! My one true love. My everything. Yes, we’ve had our ups and downs. That brief two years when we were apart, but we came back stronger than ever. Plus, he’s always felt like the perfect accessory!

I’ve paid homage to some awesome stars

Violet Eyes Elizabeth Taylor Barbie, Farrah Fawcett Barbie, Alexis Dynasty Barbie- Photos Mattel Inc

I never needed to rely on a man for my success. I was always destined for big things and in the 60s one of my biggest idols asked me to model myself on her. Can you guess who it was? She was an incredibly sought after model. And she was most known for her androgynous, cutting edge look…

Yep, that’s right. I was to be transformed into the cultural icon that was Twiggy. It was a dream come true and definitely a career highlight of mine. But it didn’t stop there – I’ve been transformed into so many awesome stars and nationalities. Well I’ve just totally lost count now.

And I have a ton of BFFs. In 1968 I met my soon-to-be best friend Christie. She was tall, dark and incredibly sassy. Together we were a force to be reckoned with. But I didn’t stop with just one great friend. Oh no. I was a social world wind and had compadres from all over the world. I was just mesmerized by their distinctive looks and different styles.

1969 Christie – Barbie’s BFF! Photo Mattel Inc

1960 Fashion Designer Barbie, 1986 Astronaut Barbie, 1993 Army Medic Barbie – Photos Mattel Inc

The 80s and 90s saw me blossom professionally

Sure I had some jobs through the 60s and 70s but they were kinda fluffy. I wanted to break into more serious roles. My main aim was to show women that you can be successful and financially independent in your own right. I was breaking the glass ceiling once stiletto heel at a time. But I needed to look the part too.

Who says you can’t be successful and stylish? Exactly. So, I enlisted the help of all the latest and greatest fashion designers of the moment, and what can I say? They hooked a girl up. I looked fierce. And this was years before Beyoncé even coined this phrase. Soz Bey.

I was, and still am, the queen of re-invention

The next two decades saw me fall in love with fashion all over again and I was often seen hitting the runway and experimenting with my hair and makeup. It was a whirlwind of a time.

Oh, and before I forget, I also became President of the United States. It had been a long time coming to be fair, but it wasn’t nearly as much fun as I had anticipated. In fact, it was a bit of a yawn fest. But hey, you live and learn.

I celebrated women of all shapes, sizes and colours

Inclusive Barbie collection – Photo Mattel Inc

Yes, I admit I was once quite elitist with my tiny waist and perfect breasts. Not that I’m one to brag of course. But I realised as I got older that I wanted all women to feel included in the Barbie brand, so I made some adjustments.

I was tall. I was petite. I was curvy. I rocked a wheelchair. I was definitely everything outside of a white blonde with blue eyes and it felt amazing! It was a ground breaking and heart-warming time for me and one that I will cherish forever.

I am now a top social influencer don’t you know

Barbie social media influencer 2019 – Photo Mattel Inc

Don’t ever let it be said that I have become complacent in my success. Yes, I am now a billionaire and could probably fade away into obscurity on my diamond encrusted yacht with the Simon Cowell edition doll but that’s just not me.

I have always prided myself on staying ahead of the times and I wasn’t going to let a little thing like social media stand in my way.

So, now not only do I have my own Instagram page with over 2 million followers, (not quite as many as the Kardashians but I do my best. Maybe if I got a bubble butt my numbers would increase? No, I couldn’t do it!) but I also have my own vlog which I use to help girls all over the world to deal with any issues that they may have.

Today’s society is definitely tougher than when I grew up. The pressure on young girls and women is immense. The sisterhood definitely needs all the help it can get. And I like to do my bit.

So, what’s next for me?

That’s a tricky one. I’ve already achieved so much, and had so many amazing opportunities come my way, what else is left for me?

Mmm. I am starting to feel my age so maybe it’s finally time to ditch my trademark blonde locks and super smooth skin and embrace every one of my fabulous 60 years. I have heard that silver coloured hair is very much in at the moment.

Oh, and I simply must find out what Snapchat is?

Tabatha Fabray

The post Barbie at 60… “OMG how did that freakin’ happen?!” appeared first on Silver Magazine.

Fenella Fielding had it spot on when she said, “People are very free with their bad advice.” And I’ve just about had enough of it.

In fact, the older I get, the more ‘advice’ I’m getting. This week I’ve been told by do-gooders in the news that people my age should drink less, for example. My Facebook feed is filled with sponsored posts about ways to look younger, and as for the health and fitness advice out there. Don’t get me started.

All of this is very well-meaning, I’m sure. But I’m not five; I’m nearly 50. And actually, I’m pretty happy with where I am, cheers.

I’m a grown-up now, thanks

With being 50 has come something of a new sense of freedom. I never worried about stuff much as a child – and by stuff I mean, like how I look in this dress, does my bum look big, will they like me, am I doing it the right way? etc – and refreshingly I find this ‘not giving a fig’ attitude is returning.

Hand on heart I can’t say I’m entirely free from self-critical behaviour, not at all. But I definitely have a stronger attitude, and with this comes a huge sense of relief. Not just relieved in an ‘about bloody time’ way, but how relieved I am to be a bit older.

How freeing it is to let go of the ‘perfect look’ and just be happy with what I’ve got. And actually be massively grateful to be here at all. I’ve lost many friends already. I hope others share this revelation as they age too, because I’d really like them to feel this relief and freedom. It’s utterly liberating.

And it came to me. I really like the way I look

I had some photos taken recently for a PR campaign. The 20- or 30-something me would have been picking over them afterwards, looking for faults. Worrying about the double chin or the angle of the shot – is it flattering? Wondering if that one made me look fat. What the actual F is happening to my hair in that one, etc? You know the drill.

And it came to me. I really like the way I look. I was actually looking at the composition of the photographs – not whether my arse looked gigantic.

I’m not perfect, but actually that is exactly the point. Being physically perfect has absolutely ceased to be my focus, and wow, I love that.

I love my life

I’ve had an unbelievably exciting time over the years. Sometimes amazing, sometimes truly terrible, but never boring. And you can see that, I think. I like the character in my face.

I like my bone structure, and I like the way my face isn’t symmetrical. And as for not having a perfect body… the fact I’m still standing after the gruelling hedonism I’ve asked it to take on is something I’m truly grateful for. Wow, but the liver is extraordinary, isn’t it?

More to the point, as I age, and lose friends and family to illness, disease and crisis, I know just exactly how lucky I am to still be here. I have a spare tyre? Christ, in the grand scheme of things that is so microscopically unimportant. Pass the port.

The last thing I want at this time in my life is for other people to be telling me what to do

It’s far more important to me these days to look and feel healthy than worry about wrinkles and baggy bits. And I cannot tell you how lovely that is. And the last thing I want at this time in my life is for other people to be telling me what to do or trying to give me new things to worry about.

Ah, the relief of ageing

Moving into later years there is a huge sense of letting go of the pressure we put upon ourselves. I’ve spent most of my adult life being dissatisfied with the way I look in one way or another. Depending on how good my mental health is, that can be picking at odd small things (“I hate this mole”) to literally not being able to stand seeing myself in the mirror, and crying in clothing shop changing rooms.

I’m not going to ask why we do this to ourselves. It’s obvious – apart from the pressure around us to look a certain way; being young and hot is what attracts people to us in our youth, in our breeding years. To imagine the focus will ever change on the glory of youth is unrealistic. But with that beautiful youth comes so much pressure, and it’s beyond liberating not to feel I’m in the competitive scrum any more. The sex soup.

I know that with our knowledge of nutrition and fitness I could ramp up my routines and have a body like I used to have (or more honestly, like I wanted to have). But I’m also totally behind those flexy, sexy silver gym bunnies who make their health and wellness a religion; good on you, seriously.

There’s a poignancy that comes with the passing of youth, like a sigh in an empty room

But this is about choices, and just as much as I choose to have a glass or wine or too much cheese, I uphold anyone else’s right to have that green smoothie, or do that tough mudder at 70. Just stop telling us what to do.

I’m aware that many people find the move from young to middle age a really hard transition. And I’d be lying if I didn’t admit to feeling blue about it sometimes too. There’s a poignancy that comes with the passing of youth, like a sigh in an empty room. But speaking purely for myself, that kind of passed around 47. It helps that ‘being older’ is the new cool. And it really is. Just look around.

There are more adults in the UK over 45 than under

I would really love to hear from readers about their own experiences. There is an absolute tidal wave online championing the silver army. Here at Silver we want to know about you – we want to hear your triumphs and your disasters, your joys and your fears.

Get in touch. Comment below, or Tweet or post on IG with the hashtag #LifeBeginsAt50
You can also find us on Facebook – get involved in the discussions. We read all the comments
Photo of Sam by Erika Szostak

Sam Harrington-Lowe

Sam is Silver’s founder and editor-in-chief. She’s largely responsible for organising all the things, but still finds time to do the odd bit of writing. Not enough though. Send help.

The post Don’t tell me what to do! appeared first on Silver Magazine.

Feisty, fit and fashionable, stylish silvers are here to stay…

Sam wears…
Chi Chi London lace high neck mini dress in black, ASOS £75
White Edson Patent Court Shoes, Ravel £60
Cobweb tights, stylist’s own

Jan wears…
Sisley pussybow shirt in white, ASOS £40
ASOS DESIGN cotton midi skirt with tie belt and ruffle hem in terracotta, £25
Earrings stylist’s own

Dawn wears…
Vintage black pinstripe dress, from SOLD community charity shop Shoreham
Silver Oka Leather Casual Shoe, Ravel £85

Sam wears…
Vintage black velvet jacket, from SOLD community charity shop Shoreham
Model’s own trousers and shoes

Jan wears…
ASOS DESIGN Tall soft shirt in sheer, £35
All jewellery stylist’s own

Dawn wears…
Turquoise vintage Dorothy Perkins ruffle dress, from SOLD community charity shop Shoreham
White vintage furry shrug and pink sunglasses stylist’s own

WANT TO KNOW MORE?

A fuller version of this shoot is published in our forthcoming pilot print issue, including interviews with all three models. To sign up for the first copy free (no obligation, promise) click here and do your thing.

If you’d simply like to join our newsletter list…

SHOT ON LOCATION AT REGENCY TOWN HOUSE, HOVE www.rth.org.uk

Photographer: Erika Szostak, www.erikaszostak.com
Photographer’s assistant: Matt Ryan, T @threepinreset

PRODUCTION MANAGER
Sam Harrington-Lowe, IG @samhl

MODELS
Sam Quinlan
Dawn Wilson
Jan Irvine

HAIR STYLIST
Ioanna Alexia Pitsillou-Kruizenga, IG @loveyohair 

MUA
Rachel Rae, IG @raemua96 

RUNNERS
Ellis Fergar
Sander Matulewicz

Ellis Fergar

The post Inspiring, unapologetic, iconic. A new dawn of fashion attitude is here appeared first on Silver Magazine.