Tabla de contenidos para August 2023 en Prima UK

I’m not always the best at switching off, but with holiday time upon us, I’m going to grant myself permission to relax and do nothing (or at least as little as I can). After all, it’s what summer is all about: enjoying the days of light and warmth that we dream about all winter long. And I hope that reading this issue of Prima, with its sunshine content and inspiring ways to enjoy the outdoors, will get you in the mood, too. I particularly love the ideas from Countryfile presenter Adam Henson, whose new book, Two For Joy, we feature on page 40. He suggests making time to admire the hidden delights of the countryside, such as spotting a hummingbird hawk-moth, gazing up at the clouds or even just enjoying…

‘Watching the crashing waves, I feel at my most creative’ ANGIE HICKSON, 40, loved painting by the sea and then, on the beach one day, she spotted a way of doing things differently. Cycling to my art class in Cascais, Portugal, with my paints and paper and the warm sun beating down on my skin, I pinch myself. This is the relaxed lifestyle I’ve always dreamed of – and now it’s a reality. The slow pace of life in my adopted home is irresistible. Cascais is a small fishing town on Portugal’s south coast, where my family and I now live. Since my husband, Steven, and I met, while we were both travelling in India in our 20s, we’ve always loved living abroad. We travelled the world together before moving…

Former BBC Breakfast host Louise Minchin is known for her love of a challenge. In 2015, while still presenting the show, she became a Team GB triathlete, representing Great Britain at the World Triathlon Championships. From that point on, she had the bug for endurance sports and, in 2021, she finally decided to swap the iconic red sofa to pursue her sporting passions. During her 20 years on the breakfast sofa, she’d grown increasingly frustrated that many of the adventurers who appeared on the show were men. ‘I was fed up of being complicit with the narrative that it is only men who deserve to be celebrated, only men who are brave, only men who stretch the limits of what is humanly possible,’ says Louise. Determined to put that right,…

There’s something soft about summer rain when it hits your face and a sudden storm in summer creates a unique refreshing smell. The smell of rain has a proper scientific name – petrichor. If you’ve ever thought you could ‘smell rain coming’ – you can. Higher humidity just before a cloudburst triggers the release of small amounts of oils and other compounds from rocks and soil. Rainfall causes minute air bubbles on the ground, which throw tiny particles of scent through the air.…

She’s the toy that most of us can say we’ve once owned and that, for many of us, holds very dear memories. Now she’s coming to life in a brand-new Hollywood film starring Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling. So what makes Barbie so special? Prima takes a trip down memory lane to look at some of her finest moments… 1950s The original Barbie doll was launched in March 1959 by Mattel (the same company now behind Polly Pocket and Hot Wheels), after co-founder Ruth Handler was inspired seeing her daughter play with paper dolls for hours. The first Barbie donned a stylish black-and-white striped swimsuit. 1960s In 1961, Mattel introduced Barbie’s boyfriend, Ken, followed a year later by the first Barbie Dreamhouse. As she rose to fame, her backstory was…

Anyone who’s ever loved and lost a pet knows just how devastating the grief can be when it dies. ‘Everyone reacts differently, but some are blindsided by the grief they experience,’ says pet bereavement counsellor Wendy Andrew, author of How To Recover From Pet Loss. ‘Losing a pet can be every bit as much of a bereavement as the death of a human. It’s not surprising, as a pet is part of the family and offers 24/7 unconditional love. Dealing with the grief can take time, but the aim is to get to a place where you can think of your pet and recall treasured memories without getting upset.’ Making the choice Making the difficult choice to put down your beloved pet can be the hardest decision you ever have…

CO-OP HOW MUCH IT COSTS: £3.50 for Co-op Membership card holders; £4 for non-members WHAT YOU CAN GET: a main (pasta salad or sandwich) + side (crisps, Scotch egg, mixed nuts, chicken bites, fruit or brownie) + drink (juice, fizzy drink, cold coffee drink or smoothie). WHAT YOU SAVE: up to £4.90 with a Membership card, £4.40 without. BEST DEAL: Co-op Tomato & Basil Chicken Pasta (normally £3.25) + Pulsin Choc Fudge & Peanut Keto Bar (£2.30) + Innocent Berry Protein Super Smoothie (£2.85). Bought separately, £8.40. SAVE UP TO £4.90 TESCO HOW MUCH IT COSTS: £3.40 with a Tesco Clubcard; £3.90 without. WHAT YOU CAN GET: a main (sandwich, salad or pasta salad) + snack (crisps or chocolate) + drink (fizzy drink, smoothie or juice). WHAT YOU SAVE: up to…

‘Greenwashing is when organisations make claims of being sustainable without evidence that they have done the work,’ says TEAM Energy’s Timothy Holman. ‘Typically, greenwashing is done by exaggerating positive green factors in marketing or advertising as “eco-friendly” when perhaps they’re not. You may believe they’re a green organisation when really only a small part of the business is. Most of the time, businesses are becoming sustainable as a force for good, but the journey to becoming environmentally friendly isn’t easy; many companies fall into the trap of greenwashing by making public announcements before the real work has been done. Consumers should try to choose businesses where they can really see the positive impact of what they’re doing rather than relying on the claims made in their advertising.’…

As we get older, our taste buds don’t grow back as quickly and also shrink in size. This explains why strongly flavoured foods we hated as children, such as broccoli or anchovies, can seem more palatable in later life. Plus, the more we eat something, the more we learn to like it, according to taste researchers, who point out that most of our food likes and dislikes are conditioned in our brains by our experience and exposure to them. Psychologist Lorenzo Stafford of the University of Portsmouth, who researches the sensory system, says: ‘One likely reason is that as our smell and taste decline with age, some flavours we found “strong” now appear less so – and so we get the opportunity to like them more.’…

If you often feel giddy and struggle to keep your balance, you are not alone. According to Dr Surenthiran, consultant neurootologist at The London Neurootology Centre (londonneuro-otologycentre.com), balance disorders are among the top 10 conditions GPs are seen about. Unfortunately, it can take around four years from someone first presenting to their doctor before they are referred to the right specialist. Many see two or three other consultants before they obtain a correct diagnosis and, during this time, their life is put on hold by debilitating symptoms. Because these disorders are particularly common in middle-aged women, they are often dismissed as owing to the menopause. Those affected may find everyday activities impossible – going to work, shopping, driving, playing with kids or grandchildren – and could even become housebound. Many…

1 Golden hour skin Makeup brand Max Factor continues its journey into skincare with Miracle Pure Skin-Illuminating Serum, £15.99. Vitamin C and niacinamide are a dreamy duo for brightening and evening skin tone, while tiny pearls of light-reflecting pigment create a dewy, radiant glow. 2 A mood boosting hair hydrator Slather Garnier Ultimate Blends Glowing Lengths Pineapple & Amla Hair Food 3-in-1 Hair Mask Treatment, £7.99, on sun-frazzled strands. The huge tub will give you serious bang for your buck, and it’s versatile, too. Use as a conditioner, a mask or a leave-in treatment, and enjoy the fruity, uplifting scent. 3 Double-duty body treat L’Occitane’s Almond range has one of the best smells in beauty. Delightful Mist, £32, puts that almost edible scent in a hydrating spray that lingers on…

THE COUNTRY LIVING MARKETPLACE IS THE DESTINATION FOR BEAUTIFUL AND BESPOKE ARTISAN PRODUCTS The Country Living Marketplace is your one-stop online shop for finding a unique gift for a special friend or family member (or yourself!). Each talented seller has been handpicked by the Country Living team, so you can be sure that whatever you buy, it has style, quality, provenance and sustainability at its core. From hand-poured aromatherapy candles and Cornish-made cushions to bespoke jewellery, art, clothing, homeware, pet accessories and more, discover something different today at the Country Living Marketplace. TYLER AROMATHERAPY From her base in the scenic Wye Valley, aromatherapist Ellie Tyler crafts garden candles with built-in bug-banning properties, thanks to her secret blend of five essential oils, which includes basil and citronella. HELEN ROUND Textile designer…

Looking for an all-round outfit that fits easily into your suitcase this summer? This gorgeous jumpsuit gives you the flexibility to dress up or go casual in a comfortable style that works in so many of the summer’s fabric offerings. All you’ll need is some statement jewellery and your best sandals! Need to know SIZES 6-24 Sew a strappy or strapless pull-on jumpsuit with elasticated bandeau neckline and waistband in either a short, midi-length or full-length wide leg**. FABRICS We used Lady McElroy viscose challis for the short jumpsuit, Golden Zebra viscose jacquard from Fabric Godmother for the midi jumpsuit and ITY tropical print jersey from Minerva for the full-length option. OPTION A OPTION B OPTION C *Offer valid for UK purchases only. There is a £1 charge for postage. Offer…

Not too tricky Measurements To fit chest: 81-86(91-97: 102-107:112-117:122-127)cm. Actual chest: 122(132:141: 150:160)cm. Length: 51(53:55:57:59)cm. Materials ● 3(4:5:5:6) 100g balls Prima DK Acrylic Wool in Multi-Coloured Speckled (A); 1 x 100g ball each in Teal (B) and Sun Yellow (C). ● 4mm crochet hook. ● 4 stitch markers. Tension 17 sts and 10 rows to 10cm square over treble crochet using a 4mm hook. Abbreviations ch chain; dc double crochet; dcblo double crochet in back loop; dcflo double crochet in front loop; rep repeat; RS right side; sl st slip stitch; st(s) stitch(es); tog together; tr treble crochet; trflo treble crochet in front loop; WS wrong side; * repeat the instructions following the single asterisk as directed;[] repeat instructions within the brackets as directed. Note Ch3 is not counted as…

From just £6! Exclusively at Scan the QR code here to browse the full collection We’re thrilled to bring you a brand-new collection of craft kits on sale exclusively at The Works. Everything you need is included in the box, so you can learn new skills, make beautiful keepsakes and even give your finished creations as gifts. The joy doesn’t stop there, as every kit includes clever ideas for upcycling the cardboard box, as well as links to further crafting inspiration online. PRODUCED WITH THE ENVIRONMENT IN MIND All our craft boxes are 100% FSC certified and fully recyclable, and we encourage you to reuse all the packaging, too, from the tissue paper to the cardboard box. We’ve also worked to reduce the number of plastic components in our crafts. Available…

I remember being given chores to do in the garden when I was very young and still living with my parents. Tasks included mowing the lawn once a week, sweeping the deck and weeding. At the time, none of these jobs received a lot of enthusiasm, but there was always a feeling of satisfaction when the work was complete. Now, anything to do with the garden, even the most mundane task, is greeted with a lot of excitement. I love nothing more than spending a day in my patch of the earth. Seeing things flourish is the best antidote for any ailment. I read gardening books and magazines, but my best teacher was my mother, who passed on to me all her thoughts and experiences as a gardener when I…

Up to 25% OFF site-wide CAPRI OUTDOOR RATTAN CHAISE SET WAS £1,703, NOW ONLY £1,277 WE LOVE THIS BECAUSE ✱ It’s crafted from durable PE rattan with a closed and open weave for a timeless look ✱ The set includes a two-seater sofa, a coffee table and a chaise section that can be positioned at either end of the sofa ✱ The stylish cushions are showerproof ✱ A matching dining set and lounge set are also available The House Beautiful Marketplace summer sale is now on with up to 25% off site-wide. From furniture to fire pits, and cushions to mugs, there are plenty of stylish offers waiting for you. SCAN HERE TO SHOP THESE GORGEOUS BUYS AND MORE AT HOUSE BEAUTIFUL MARKETPLACE CREATE YOUR DREAM SPACE AT housebeautiful.co.uk…

GROWN-UP HOLIDAYS Cook’s Club Calvià Beach (cooksclub.com) is a stylish adults-only hotel in Mallorca with an infinity pool, sandy beach and DJ sets. Double rooms from £82 a night with breakfast. ON THE RIGHT TRACK The Hoxton Hotels is rewarding guests who travel sustainably. Book a ‘multi-Hox’ trip by rail and you’ll receive a £20 discount (The Good Rate) off the room at each location. Destinations include London, Paris, Brussels and Amsterdam – all on the Eurostar network. The Hoxton Lloyd Amsterdam opens this August. From £166 a night; thehoxton.com. If it’s good enough for David… Over 70 years of wildlife filming, David Attenborough has clocked up 333 locations across 83 different countries and Explore Worldwide is asking: ‘How David Attenborough are you?’ It has created an interactive map for…

There’s nowhere more atmospheric for romantic steam train travel than the Scottish Highlands. Your four-day trip starts near Britain’s highest mountain, Ben Nevis, passes its deepest freshwater loch, Loch Morar, and travels over the 21-arch Glenfinnan Viaduct to arrive beside Loch Nevis. The itinerary also includes three unique boat rides: one on the Falkirk Wheel, another on Loch Katrine and finally a cruise along the trail of Rob Roy on Loch Lomond. Reasons to book MEET CAROL KIRKWOOD Carol will give a talk about her love of Scotland, growing up in Morar, her career and her Strictly experience. THE FALKIRK WHEEL The world’s only rotating boat lift will take you from the water at New Port Downie to the Union Canal 35m above. In the 1930s, the Forth & Clyde…

SHIP shape Our favourite nautical trend gets sporty with colour blocking and flattering stripes. TROPICAL fever Palm prints, florals and a vibrant colour palette ensure an exotic holiday vibe. POOLSIDE chic Upgrade your sunlounger style by adding terracotta and khaki to classic black swimwear.…

I should have felt happy – I was celebrating my 40th birthday on the trip of a lifetime to Boston, USA, with my husband, Mark. But I felt panicky, anxious and was suffering with headaches. My job as a brand manager had left me burnt out and the thought of returning home to work stress was like a dark cloud hanging over our romantic break. Something had to change. I’d always been jolly and positive, and I barely recognised the short-tempered, grumpy, emotional person I’d turned into. I wasn’t enjoying life. I’d stopped laughing and embracing things. The only thing that kept me from having a full-blown breakdown was caring for my bees. Three years earlier, I’d read Santa Montefiore’s book The Beekeeper’s Daughter and fallen in love with the…

Adam Henson is perhaps the best-known farmer in the UK, presenting his own section on BBC’s Countryfile. Growing up in the Cotswold Hills as a farmer’s son, he got involved with the family business from an early age. ‘My favourite summer memory as a kid has to be sitting on the tractor with my dad helping harvest the hay,’ recalls Adam. These days, with the 1,600-acre Bemborough Farm and Cotswold Farm Park to look after, Adam still loves the excitement of harvest time. ‘It’s the culmination of all our hard work over the last year,’ he says. But you don’t have to be a farmer to enjoy the great outdoors, and in his book, Two For Joy: The Untold Ways To Enjoy The Countryside, Adam reveals the many ways in…

There are more than 50 pet crematoria in the UK. Do your research to see exactly what’s being offered and check for IAOPCC accreditation, says Kevin Spurgeon, owner of Dignity Pet Crematorium (dignitypetcrem.co.uk): ‘We’ve held thousands of pet cremations. They are laid in state so families can say goodbye, then the ashes are handed over or can be made into mementoes, such as jewellery or even a tattoo. Often knowing they’ve done the best for their pet helps clients with the grieving process.’ Dignity also offers pet exhumation for those who want to move home but don’t want to leave a buried pet behind. Other ways to remember your pet: ● Plant a tree or shrub or make a rockery in your garden. Wendy suggests fixing your pet’s collar to…

FLY AWAY Q How can I keep flies out of my house this summer? A ‘Some flies pose a public health risk,’ says Paul Blackhurst from Rentokil. ‘Houseflies are attracted to the smell of decaying organic matter and can spread diseases such as salmonella and E. coli. Just two flies can produce up to 500 eggs, which can hatch in as little as seven days. It’s important to dispose of food waste quickly and keep kitchen doors and windows screened properly or closed. DIY fly traps using cider vinegar can help, while plants such as basil, lavender and mint are said to repel them. For persistent infestations, seek professional help from a pest control expert.’ Prices will vary regionally. I NEED A RING Q I’m getting married again and my…

MAKING LIFE SIMPLE FOR THE MODERN WOMAN Subscribe to the digital edition of Prima magazine for instant access to advice on how to look and feel your best, time and money saving solutions, quick and easy food, beautiful homes and gardens, and above all everything you need to get the most out of life. SUBSCRIBE TO OUR DIGITAL EDITION Get instant access to the latest issue even when you’re on the move. Choose from the options below and enjoy a 30-day free trial of Prima for your iPad or iPhone. Your digital subscription starts with the most recent issue. GO DIGITAL AVAILABLE ON THESE DEVICES HEARSTMAGAZINES.CO.UK…

Q Which shorts will suit my shape? Don’t shy away from shorts – there’s a fit for everyone this summer. As a general rule, a longer Bermuda style or an A-line shape with a mid-to high-rise is flattering on most figures. Look for a tailored pair with a sturdy waistband and structured shape to fit and skim in all the right places. Prefer covering up? Slip on a pair of culottes instead. Q I feel so bored with my clothes. How can I start putting more exciting outfits together? Find fresh inspiration: Look for outfit ideas on shop mannequins, in magazines and on social media. What are the key pieces in each look? How have the outfits been put together? Consider how you can incorporate elements of these looks into…

OFFER FOR YOU! WE ALL DESERVE A LITTLE TREAT Swiss brand Ultrasun is one of our summertime go-tos. Living up to its name with an ultra-impressive range of sunscreens, Ultrasun’s mission is to make advanced protection accessible for all, with formulations to suit every occasion, skin type and tone. The trick is in clever patented technology that mimics the skin’s structure in order to work better for longer; think of the formulations as your second-skin shield. Plus, its hypoallergenic creams are suitable for even the most sensitive skin, as well as being reef safe. Fresh faced With formulas that also target a range of complexion concerns, from pigmentation and oil control to protection in polluted environments, Ultrasun’s Face collection plays to your skin’s individuality. Plus, these lightweight and hydrating lotions…

Swap out stones for small pumpkins in the autumn or pastel-hued eggs for Easter lunches. PEBBLE MARKERS Decorated smooth, flat stones make simple place settings for a party. You will need ✽ Pencil ✽ Selection of pebbles and stones (available to buy from Hobbycraft)* ✽ Acrylic paint or Posca paint marker ✽ Brush To make ❶ Plan out your design using a pencil to ensure correct spacing. ❷ Go over your pencil design with acrylic paint using a fine brush or a Posca paint marker. ❸ Decorate with simple lines or crosses as a decorative border. PAINTED TABLECLOTH Set the scene for a summer outdoor lunch with a pretty painted tablecloth. You will need ✽ White three-ply paper tablecloth ✽ Scissors ✽ Newspaper ✽ Household brush ✽ Acrylic paint in…

Ever stumbled upon a sideboard or chest of drawers at a car boot sale and thought it would look lovely at home if only it wasn’t so worn? Or perhaps you have a much loved piece that needs updating. In her new book, furniture artist, upcycling expert and author Joanne Condon shares lots of fun ways you can ‘flip your furniture’ to turn it into something new. Here, she explains… SOURCING OLD FURNITURE ‘You can change a piece of furniture’s function to suit your needs, or simply add a coat of paint to enhance what’s already there. Try charity, secondhand and antiques shops, car boot sales, auctions and websites such as Gumtree, Preloved, Facebook Marketplace and eBay. Always check furniture for woodworm, as this will need treating before you begin.…

Not too tricky Measurements Full length: 46cm. Width: 31cm. Materials ● 1 x 100g ball Prima DK Acrylic Wool each in Red (A); Pure White (B); Chocolate (C) and Cornflower (D). ● Pair of 4mm knitting needles. ● 4 stitch markers. ● Sewing pins. ● Stuffing. Tension 22 sts and 30 rows to 10cm square over stocking stitch using 4mm needles. 22 sts and 35 rows to 10cm square over pattern stitch using 4mm needles. Abbreviations cm centimetre; cont continue; g gram; k knit; MB Make bobble: knit, purl, knit, purl in to next st, turn, k4, turn, k4, turn, k4, turn, (k2tog) twice, pass 2nd st on right hand needle over st; p purl; patt pattern; psso pass slipped stitch over knit stitch; rep repeat; RS right side; ssk…

All ready in 20 minutes! Orzo paella Our nod to the Spanish favourite swaps traditional rice for quick-cooking orzo pasta. SERVES 4 Ready in 20MIN • 1tbsp olive oil• 1 onion, chopped• 290g jar (approx) roasted peppers, drained and sliced• 150g cooking chorizo, sliced• 2 garlic cloves, crushed• 1tbsp sweet smoked paprika• 2tbsp red pepper pesto• 300g orzo pasta• 250g podded broad beans, skinned, if you like• Large handful flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped 1 Heat oil in a large frying pan (that has a lid) over medium-high heat. Add onion, peppers and sliced chorizo and fry for 3-4min until beginning to turn golden. Add garlic, smoked paprika and pesto. Cook, stirring, for 1min. 2 Add orzo to the pan and cook for 1min, stirring constantly. Pour in 750ml just-boiled water and bring…

When Vic White renovated her Victorian house in south-east London, which she shares with her husband, Peter, and son, Seb, 15, a loft extension freed up some extra space. ‘Originally, this space was a bedroom,’ says Vic. ‘But as our new loft extension provided us with two extra bedrooms, we were able to turn this one into a family bathroom.’ WHAT STYLE WERE YOU GOING FOR? I decided to go quite ‘maximal’ with lots of different textures and colours, which is not my normal style. My previous bathrooms have been quite modern and simple with grey or white fixtures. I’d seen a lot of people on Instagram doing more elaborate bathrooms, and as we had uncovered a gorgeous marble fireplace in the room, I decided to go for it. HOW…

Get summer-ready Bring boho vibes to your backyard with a glamorous parasol and colourful cushions. Spotlight on… Oliver Bonas The perfect place for fun furniture and accessories. GO ALFRESCO Nothing beats a picnic in the park when the sun shines! M&S has everything you will need. 3 of the BEST COOL BAGS Pack a picnic in a smart cool bag. Genius idea This clever storage stool not only hides clutter, but the lid also flips so it can be used as a handy tray. STYLE IT FOR £10 & UNDER All affordable and fabulous…

One, two, three… jump! Plunging from the side of a sailing boat, I splashed into the warm, turquoise sea and couldn’t stop grinning. Here I was in the Caribbean, and it felt as magical as every picture I’d ever seen on TV or in a travel brochure. I’d come to swim with the turtles in Barbados and wasn’t disappointed. As I bobbed around in the water, one came gliding past. And, if turtles can laugh, it may well have been doing that, too, as it gazed at the spectacle of me looking far from graceful in the water. I’d been invited on P&O Cruises’ new ship, Arvia, as it sailed from Antigua to Barbados. Even now as I write those words, it still sounds too incredible to be true. But…

Japan is a unique blend of ancient and modern. It’s the home of countless natural wonders and cultural highlights, from ancient temples and majestic statues of Buddha to the sleek skyscrapers and neon lights of its big cities. But there’s perhaps no single experience as spellbindingly beautiful as that of hanami, the custom of enjoying the transient beauty of the cherry blossom. Each spring, Japanese residents and visitors wait with anticipation for cherry blossom (sakura) buds to bloom. Next year, you’ll have the chance to experience it yourself on our two-week cruise. Your trip will begin and end in Tokyo, where you’ll find soaring skyscrapers contrasting with blooming gardens and traditional ramen restaurants. You’ll also stop in Hiroshima, where you can learn about its Second World War history; Osaka, where…

Follow Nina on Twitter @matineegirl for news and giveaways My book of the month The Collected Regrets Of Clover by Mikki Brammer (Viking, £14.99) Clover Brooks is a death doula, who spends her time helping those at their end of lives. Even though everyone thinks it’s weird, she finds solace in it. But when Sebastian asks her to be with his dying grandmother, she realises that maybe her job is protecting her from living her own life. I adored this; heartwarming and joyous, it will make you want to go and hug someone you love. A fascinating insight into death doulas, too. 6 July Bad Men by Julie Mae Cohen (Zaffre, £14.99) It’s great when I love a protagonist that I probably shouldn’t – Saffy Huntley-Oliver is one. She’s a rich, beautiful…

From the Edinburgh Fringe to TV and radio shows such as Live At The Apollo and Just A Minute, Shaparak Khorsandi’s career in comedy has been varied and successful. Also known as Shappi, in 2009 she turned her hand to writing, and this month sees the release of Scatter Brain, which explores her experience of ADHD. ‘Reading has always been a way to lock myself into another world as well as a way to make sense of my own,’ she says. The book that shaped my childhood… The Lion, The Witch And The Wardrobe by CS Lewis. I lived with those characters in my head and visited Narnia with them all the time until I was out of the magic of childhood. The book that inspired my own writing… Clothes,…

STAR OF THE MONTH LEO 24 July to 23 August Your life is looking very different now from a few months ago and that should be a good thing. You’ve had a lot of pressure taken off you, astrologically speaking. This month brings the New Moon in your sign, so make it turnaround time. Carve out space to reconsider and reset your priorities. VIRGO 24 August to 23 September Your ruling planet Mercury is retrograde this month and retrograde in Virgo. It’s time to rethink, revise, revamp, revisit and redo anything in your life that you know needs it… everything if necessary! Do some soul-searching to benefit from this rare celestial opportunity. LIBRA 24 September to 23 October Be careful what you wish for this month – you might just…

Dragons’ Den star and Crafter’s Companion founder Sara Davies, 39, lives in County Durham with her husband, Simon, and their two sons, Oliver, nine, and Charlie, six. Her latest project, BBC Two’s Ultimate Wedding Planner, sees her join First Dates’ Fred Sirieix and wedding industry expert Raj Somaiya as they judge and mentor eight wedding planners vying to prove they can throw the perfect day. WEDDING BELLS My new show, Ultimate Wedding Planner, is right up my street, but I almost turned it down. When the BBC first approached me, I said, ‘I don’t really know anything about weddings – so thanks, but no thanks!’ They were really persistent, though, and when I finally sat down with them, they explained that it involved judging the creative side of a wedding…

Perfect for all summer event and holiday wardrobes, Phase Eight’s new collection includes beautiful hand-painted florals, created in its London studio by an in-house design team. Featured across a selection of styles, these are the prints you’ll wear all season long. OFFER FOR YOU! BECAUSE WE ALL DESERVE A TREAT HOW TO CLAIM To receive your exclusive 15% discount code, visit prima.co.uk/offersaug23 and follow the instructions. You can redeem your discount at phase-eight.com from 26 June to 2 August 2023. TERMS & CONDITIONS Offer is valid from 26 June to 2 August 2023. Offer is only valid online and in stand-alone Phase Eight stores (not concessions). Offer applies to full-priced products only. Code cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer or on Collection 8 or Bridal. No substitutions…

You can learn to identify some iconic bird species by sight in no time at all. Here’s what to look for when you’re lying on the grass, gazing up.…

● For portrait shots, move closer to your subject, so their head and shoulders fill the image. Most of the latest smartphones have a portrait mode to help you capture more detail and give a more intimate feel. ● Playing with the zoom on your smartphone can result in some interesting effects, as well as helping you to capture every moment, however far away. ● Use a soft cloth to remove dirt and fingerprints from your camera lens. A Google Pixel phone will remind you if you’ve left it too long between cleanings. ● At night, or at events with low light, the Night Sight feature on the Google Pixel uses AI and Tensor G2 to give crisp and beautiful results without using the flash. • Google Pixel 7a, £449,…

BEST OVERALL Cuddledown Linen Bedding Set, £184 for a double, cuddledown.co.uk This breathable, soft set was a dreamy buy. Everything fitted neatly, with hidden buttons. Aside from creasing (which happened with every set), it emerged from multiple washes in great condition. BEST SILK-STYLE Ethical Bedding Bed Sheet Bundle, £199 for a double, ethicalbedding.com Our panel loved the lightweight and cooling design, made of naturally moisture-wicking eucalyptus silk, noting that despite the fabric’s finish, duvets and pillows stayed firmly in place. BEST BUDGET Silentnight Pure Cotton Duvet Cover Set, £40 for a double, silentnight.co.uk This affordable pure cotton pick kept our testers comfortably cool. Our duvet slid about a bit inside the 180-thread-count duvet cover. The buttons proved fiddly, but it kept its shape.…

Taste is so much more than just our appreciation of flavoursome food. Whether it’s a sweet strawberry enjoyed in the sunshine or a juicy burger that has sizzled on the barbecue, taste is a big part of how we appreciate life and is intimately tied to how we feel. It’s also key to good health because it’s the body’s ‘gatekeeper’. As we evolved from hunter-gatherers, a delicate sense of taste was essential to help us tell the difference between plants that were safe to eat and those that were poisonous. To discriminate between subtle flavours, our tongues have between 200 and 400 papillae – or bumps – which get replaced about every two weeks. On the sides of these papillae are around three to five taste buds, each carrying up…

Bring the countryside into your home with Country Living. Enjoy seasonal recipes, fascinating features and delightful ideas for your home and garden. Get your first six issues for just £6, and join more than 500,000 readers escaping to the country with Country Living. JUST £1 AN ISSUE “Lovely, colourful magazine with country lifestyles, recipes and crafts. I look forward to receiving my copy every month.” Country Living subscriber EASY WAYS TO SUBSCRIBE Visit hearstmagazines.co.uk/cl-mag Call 01858 438423‡ and quote 1CL12413 Scan the QR code on the right TERMS & CONDITIONS Subscription offers promoted are available to UK customers only. After your first six issues, your subscription will continue at £29.99 every six issues, saving 41%. Cover will vary from final product. All orders will be acknowledged, and you will be…

Salon fresh What makes me feel beautiful? I know you probably want me to say it’s when my niece tells me she loves me or something like that, but, honestly, I feel most beautiful when I’ve just had my colour done and my hair blow-dried! Pale and interesting If I could speak to my younger self now, I would tell her to lean into the paleness and wear foundation that actually matches the colour of her skin. Be who you are. It’s grand! I’m obsessed with foundations and at the moment I’m using Lisa Eldridge Seamless Skin The Foundation, £44. For days when I want something lighter, it’s NARS Natural Radiant Longwear Foundation, £39. Good habits When I was young, I would watch my mother (who has always had beautiful…

Order your free* pattern online and only pay £1 for postage (price without offer is £2.99)! To claim your exclusive reader offer, simply go to hearstmagazines.co.uk/prima-pattern-aug-pri and place your order today! You’ll receive your FREE pattern direct to your door and pay just £1 for postage*. The price without this reader offer is £2.99, so don’t miss out. Alternatively, subscribe to Prima now and get three issues for £5 (saving 77%) and receive this pattern for FREE, plus a new pattern every month with your magazine. To take advantage of our special low-price offer, visit hearstmagazines.co.uk/prima-august and opt in at the checkout to receive the pattern.…

Summertime is here and I absolutely love any excuse to get family and friends around for a barbecue in the garden. And there is no better way to serve refreshing drinks to your garden guests than on this fabulously fruity tray! This is such a colourful summer make – and lots of fun to do, too. You will need ✽ Circular wooden tray ✽ Red spray paint suitable for wooden surfaces ✽ Paintbrush ✽ Green acrylic paint ✽ Small sponge ✽ A lighter shade of green acrylic paint ✽ Yellow and white acrylic paint markers ✽ Black fine liner pen ✽ Clear spray sealant To create ❶ Firstly, if you are upcycling an old wooden tray, make sure that it is completely clean. ❷ Next – and it’s best to…

Meet the maker Sue Day discovered the art of bookbinding at a craft fair 12 years ago and decided to master it for herself. Following years of training, she set up as a small business in 2018 and hasn’t looked back. Can you describe your bookbinding process? I make each book by hand, cutting with scalpels and a rotary cutter. For a fair, I work in batches – cutting and folding the paper, punching holes, covering and pressing the boards, and prepping the cork. Once everything’s ready, I stitch the books. This is my favourite thing to do in the conservatory or garden listening to podcasts or watching TV. Have any projects stretched your skills? My first request was from my son, after my second workshop, for a large, traditional…

Baking tip If using a fan-assisted oven, adjust temperatures according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Lemon, cardamom & raspberry torte A divine, summery, flourless cake, which works just as well with blueberries as it does with raspberries. SERVES 6-8 • 125g butter, plus extra to grease• 200g golden caster sugar• 10 cardamom pods, seeds crushed• Finely grated zest 1 unwaxed lemon• 2tsp vanilla extract• 3 large eggs• 200g raspberries or blueberries• 250g ground almonds• 1tsp (gluten-free) baking powder FOR THE LEMON DRIZZLE ICING • Finely grated zest and juice 1 small lemon• 200g icing sugar• Handful toasted hazelnuts, finely chopped YOU WILL ALSO NEED • 23cm springform cake tin, greased and lined 1 Preheat oven to 170°C/mark 3. Cream together the butter, sugar, cardamom seeds, lemon zest and vanilla extract until…

Warm up by the fire An outdoor fireplace will keep you warm on cloudier days and out in the open air when it starts to get chillier at sunset. From choosing a contemporary freestanding option to building a chimney breast and flue, always seek expert advice for a realistic idea of what is achievable in your space – try Urban Fires, which specialises in these projects. Always use kiln-dried logs from a sustainable source, as these produce the least amount of smoke and burn in a way that is kinder to the environment. Chimney breast painted in Basalt and right-hand wall painted in Bassoon Intelligent Masonry paint, £79 for 5L, Little Greene. For similar furniture and accessories, try Ikea Accessorise with soft furnishings Updating sofa cushions and rugs is a…

COSY UP UNDER THE CORNISH NIGHT SKY IN A LUXURY SHEPHERD’S HUT Nestled on the peaceful grounds of Rick Stein’s pub near Padstow are six new shepherd’s huts, perfect for a cosy couple of nights by the sea. Each wooden hut has a bright living and dining area, an en suite shower room, a kitchenette and a private patio. As you’d expect from accommodation owned by the award-winning chef, food will be at the heart of your stay. Look forward to a delicious hand-delivered breakfast hamper on one morning. You’ll also be treated to a three-course dinner at The Cornish Arms and an upgraded breakfast on one morning at Rick Stein’s renowned Seafood Restaurant in Padstow. Reasons to book DELICIOUS FOOD Your stay will include a breakfast and picnic hamper…

Seeing the northern lights dance across the night sky is an otherworldly experience. On this 15-day expedition cruise, you will search for the aurora borealis while sailing along Norway’s coast and fjords. You’ll sail from Tilbury on Hurtigruten’s MS Maud and visit Nordfjord, where you will spy old fishing communities dating back to pre-Viking times. From there, you’ll head to the Lofoten Islands, with their iconic red fishing huts dotted against a backdrop of granite peaks. A highlight will be spending five nights above the Arctic Circle. You’ll sail into Alta, which sits directly beneath the auroral oval, a zone known for northern lights activity. You’ll then visit the Arctic capital, Tromsø, and Narvik, a town surrounded by fjords. You’ll also have plenty of time to enjoy MS Maud’s facilities;…

What’s your favourite read? This month, Faiqa Mansab chose: No Honour by Awais Khan (Orenda Books, £8.99) I’m a Pakistani writer and as I grow older, I guard my reading time jealously. I loved the author’s debut, In The Company Of Strangers, and enjoyed this one, too. It deals with a heartbreaking issue that I am familiar with as a Pakistani woman. Awais writes with empathy and has created empowered female characters and a father who’s heroic and as much a victim of patriarchy as the female protagonist. • If you’d like to feature your favourite book here, email prima@hearst.co.uk…

Isn’t it funny that when you look at a calendar, it reminds you of school? August was always the long holiday, time to re-energise. The only thing we have planned this year is time away but I don’t know where. So, with that in mind I decided to have a fantasy summer holiday. It’s a fun game and doesn’t cost a penny. So right now, I am on a white sandy beach with clear, warm water and a great book in my hand, my family around me and a zip-wire park close by. The fun thing about a fantasy trip is I don’t have to pack. Am I alone in hating packing? I always take too many things. I see people on social media showing how to pack in a…