In our series Salary Stories, women with long-term career experience open up about the most intimate details of their jobs: compensation. It’s an honest look at how real people navigate the complicated world of negotiating, raises, promotions and job loss, with the hope it will give young women more insight into how to advocate for themselves — and maybe take a few risks along the way.
Been in the workforce for at least five years and interested in contributing your salary story? Submit your information here.Published stories receive £100.
Age: 29 Location: Manchester Current industry and job title: PR, senior account manager Current salary: £44,000 Number of years employed since school or university: Seven
Starting salary: £15,000 in 2015 Biggest salary jump: From £30,000 to £39,000 in 2019 Biggest salary drop: N/A
Biggest negotiation regret: I left an employer because they wouldn’t increase my salary. Six months later they asked me to come back with a promotion and offered me an £14,000 pay rise. I took it, but then when I went back, they held my much-higher salary against me for two years. I never should have gone back considering the situation: They were so opposed to giving me a pay rise in the first instance but they brought me back with such a big jump, and then kept reminding me of that for the rest of my time there.
Best salary advice: It’s easier said than done, but try to put your self-worth and mental health before a pay rise. I was once very unhappy in a role and was offered a position in a well-known, lovely company, but turned it down as the wage wasn’t substantial enough. I regret not taking that role most weeks. When I finished university, I decided to go travelling for a year. It’s a decision I’ll never regret, but it was a bit of a sh*tshow when I came home to no money and no job. I wanted to be a journalist but decided to take on a PR internship in the meantime, on £100 a month. Luckily for me, after one week they offered me a position as junior account executive on £15,000. After 10 months, they promoted me to account executive, which saw my pay increase to £17,500. I changed firms and got a nice pay rise, then after six months my wage increased to £23,000. In late 2017 it went up again to £25,000, but it then stayed at this level for two years. I did ask for a pay rise, which I backed up with reasons and results, but was turned down so decided to move on. After being refused a promotion in my previous role, I made a bold move and went to a firm which were renowned for not being great. The pay jump was fab, but it definitely wasn’t worth working in such an awful environment! The boss who refused my promotion and pay rise two jobs ago realised my value, and asked me to come back for a director role and a hefty pay jump. I wish I had said no, as it shouldn’t have taken me leaving for them to realise I was worth more, but I was so excited at the thought of earning £39,000 that I had to take it. I went back and took on a hell of a lot more responsibility, with the wage often held against me as if I didn’t deserve it. We were a small team, and I was the senior lead on all of our clients, so I absolutely did deserve it (and then some!). I should never have let anyone make me think otherwise.
Also, after two years, my salary didn’t change. I was furloughed one day a week during COVID-19, so picked up some freelance work, securing an extra £600 per month when I had it.I took a step back in terms of job title, but a nice step up in pay. The distance and travel, as this job was based in London and I live in Manchester, didn’t quite work out though.
On top of this, I didn’t feel my experience was ever particularly valued, as I was put on random clients irrelevant to my experience, so I moved back to a Manchester-based agency after 14 months.This move was a crucial point in my career. I realised my worth as I had three interviews, and received three job offers. This gave me the confidence boost I needed and helped me negotiate my starting salary up to £50,000. I’ve now stayed in this role for almost two years.
I finally feel quite settled, and received confirmation just this week that I’ll receive a £2k pay rise by May 2024, so plan to stick around and hopefully progress!
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When it comes to hair trends, we’re spoilt for choice right now. From the ‘butterfly’ lob (a long bob with sweeping layers) to the mid-length haircut, there’s an Instagram-worthy look for all hair types and textures. But it’s fair to say that nothing is generating hype quite like the bob.
The bob is a surefire classic of course but London’s hottest stylists are getting creative. Lately we’ve spotted the ’90s version (blunt and sleek), boyish styles (featuring natural, undone texture) and bobs with a French twist (slightly shorter at the front to lift the face). As we edge into summer, though, the ‘bottleneck bob’ is invading the Instagram feeds of influencers and stylists alike. According to Google Trends, search for the look has increased this past month.
If you’re an R29 regular, you might’ve spotted our recent trend story on ‘bottleneck bangs‘. The style sits in between a face-framing curtain fringe and something a little fuller but it isn’t too voluminous or dramatic. The fringe is a bit more streamlined and blends in with the rest of the hair at the sides, hence the bottleneck name. With bobs and fringes both trending, it was only a matter of time before the two joined forces.
I’ve had a bob haircut before but I’ve never thought about teaming it with a fringe. If I’m being honest, I’ve been terrified of bangs since the early Myspace days (emos past and present, unite). As a result, I haven’t strayed much from my classic centre parting. But something came over me as I scrolled through the #bottleneckbob hashtag on TikTok and I booked myself an appointment with Grace Amelia at Hershesons Fitzrovia.
It’s always helpful to bring along a reference so I took a screenshot of this cut created by hairstylist Bobby Eliot for Ella Purnell, and of Selena Gomez‘s new, lived-in bob with bangs, cut by Orlando Pita. We settled on a style much closer to the former, which is a blunt cut and doesn’t feature any layers. They can be quite difficult to style at home if you’re not a dab hand with a hairdryer, and the whole point of the bottleneck bob is that the fringe does all the talking, right?
Once my hair had been washed and towel-dried, Grace started to lop inches off my lengths using the razor cutting technique favoured by a number of London’s coolest stylists — including the very in-demand Hair Bros. Opting for a haircutting razor over scissors lends lengths a lighter feel and encourages swishy movement so that the finished result has a natural texture to it, rather than looking or feeling blocky.
I have quite a long, oval face shape and I worried that something too blunt or too short might not suit me. But Grace reassured me that bobs can be tailored to suit pretty much anyone. That goes for all hair types when cut by a professional who knows your texture really well. If you have a lot of thick hair like I do, your chosen stylist will likely opt for a pair of thinning scissors to take away some weight from the underside of your hair so you don’t end up with the triangle look.
Once the bob was cut in, Grace moved on to the fringe, which she cut at an angle to blend into the rest of my hair for an effortless, lived-in look. The bottleneck fringe is totally different from the swooshy, ’70s-inspired curtain bangs trending on TikTok right now and the streamlined shape means it’ll be much easier to grow out should you want to switch things up in the future.
I can’t lie, the bottleneck bob makes me feel like a total badass and I’m glad I bit the bullet, getting a fringe for the first time in almost 15 years and going much shorter than I’ve ever gone before. The cut means I’ve said goodbye to my frazzled ends, too, so my hair feels a lot healthier and bouncier.
Grace tonged my hair ever so slightly to enhance movement but at home I’m lazy and simply rough-dry my hair, then smooth it down with the ghd Glide Hot Brush, £179, which is a game-changer for thick, frizzy hair. The key to styling bottleneck bangs — or any curtain-esque fringe — is to invest in a round brush, says Grace. I love the Denman D75 Medium ThermoCeramic Curling Brush, £13, which has little vents to distribute airflow and to give hair real body.
Before the cut I had a couple of blonde highlights peeking through but like Selena Gomez’s style, I think the bob looks a lot more chic when my hair is all one colour. I used Josh Wood Permanent Colour 5.0 Dark Brown + Smoky Brown Shade Shot, £19, to match my roots and to enhance shine.
The best thing about the bottleneck bob is that you can still whip it up into a claw clip style and let the fringe — which should be longer at the sides — frame your face. On days when it’s raining or I don’t have the time to get out the heated styling tools, this is how I’ll be wearing my hair. The fringe also looks super cute and kinda ’90s when I bring it forward and tuck the rest of the bob behind my ears. The inspiration? Prue from Charmed, obviously.
It’s fair to say I’m sold on the bottleneck bob and if TikTok and Instagram are anything to go by, the style is definitely going to stick around for summer.
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No brand does festival fashion like Free People. Since it was founded in 1984, it’s had the vintage-inspired, boho glam corner of the market covered. Think airy maxi dresses for wafting around the house in, fringed jackets that would make Jimi Hendrix proud and Joan Jett-esque bell bottom flares — all with more tie-dye, sequins, crochet and beads than you can shake your pint of lukewarm cider at.
So with festival season already in full swing, what better time to rifle through Free People’s 2024 festival edit and style some looks for any weather and every occasion you’ll face, from putting up the tent to a sudden downpour. You may find yourself stomping through a sodden field but these outfits will put you in a sunny, boho-glam state of mind.
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Best Free People festival outfits for putting up the tent
Trust me, you’ll want a distinct outfit for carrying all your stuff from the car park to the campsite and pitching your tent. Once you’ve dragged all the bits and bobs that make your festival set-up and wrestled with the guy lines, you’ll be one big pool of sweat — even if the sun isn’t shining. This outfit should be practical (comfortable, easy, with no complicated ties or waistlines that dig in) because it’s likely that you’ve travelled in it too, but that’s not to say you can’t also look great. Take it from me: each time I’ve camped at a festival (which is a lot, I love festivals), I’ve found myself too tired to change after setting up camp, and so this is usually also my day one outfit. And remember, if you can double up with stylish separates now, it means there’s less to pack and carry on your back.
I love the combination of shorts, a tank top and a button-down — simply throw off the shirt when the argument about tent poles gets too heated. Alternatively, these lightweight, cotton overalls are a comfy all-in-one outfit that you can easily move around in. Another tried and tested outfit combination is a pair of leggings and an oversized graphic tee (which will double up as your sleep t-shirt). Be sure to wrap a coverup around your waist; this will keep you warm on your journey there and once the sun sets on the first night.
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Best Free People festival outfits for sun & hot weather
British festivals aren’t known for their sunshine but when it is sunny, boy does it get hot — not to mention, shaded areas are often few and far between. If it looks like the temperature will be high, we want to be wearing as little as possible; think camisole tops and shorts, long, flowy skirts, strappy mini dresses and light layers that you can easily stuff in your bag. Speaking from experience, skorts are a lifesaver when it comes to dreaded chafing and they are nice and light for rolling up in your bag (plus easy to hand wash and dry overnight if need be). My go-to sunny-day outfit combination for festivals is typically a skort and a mini dress or tunic (nice and breezy!). Typically, I opt for trainers (to protect my toes) but sandals are also a must at a festival — especially for sliding into when on the campsite. The chunkier the better in my petite, 4’2 opinion!
I’m tying all the warm-weather outfits together with a bright, sunny palette of yellows, oranges, tans and browns, offset with rich textures like crochet. This way you can easily mix and match pieces and cut down on your packing.
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Best Free People festival outfits for rain
Wearing jeans for a rainy day at a festival is a no-go. Bare legs will always dry faster so I’ve opted for shorts and mini skirts (keep hemlines short so as not to drag up any mud). Layer up with jumpers and, of course, a rain jacket — I swear by my Singin’ In The Rain Jacket, it’s seen me through two Glastonburys. Finish off with sturdy rain boots that will keep your feet dry and warm, and accessories that won’t get sodden — like this Rains waterproof cargo-style bag or a leather crossbody. Worried about cold legs? Remember that you’ll probably be in and out of crowds, dancing and marching between stages all day. For the evening, simply roll up a pair of lightweight leggings in your bag.
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Best Free People festival outfits for wind
So it’s not raining but it’s not quite sunny; it’s cloudy and there’s a strong wind blowing. You need outfits designed for warmth here, which means covered legs and plenty of layers that you can pull on or tie around your waist. We love cool, printed trousers that elevate a simple graphic tee and sweatshirt. Comfort is key so choose sturdy boots or a pair of trainers you don’t mind getting a little beaten up. When the wind’s blowing, hands-free bags are a lifesaver.
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Best Free People festival outfits for boho glam
Festivals are the perfect opportunity to go all out with boho glam fashion; vibrant colours, clashing patterns, unique details and interesting materials. It’s all about having fun with your outfit, whether that means swapping your baby blues for zany, printed flares, layering up with a dramatic kimono jacket or slipping into patterned cowboy boots instead of your trusty Docs.
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Best Free People festival outfits for sleep & on the campsite
For sleep and on the campsite you want comfort and warmth; sleepwear that you can layer up for the cold nights and strip off for hot mornings in the tent. Sliders are key for trips to the loo and you’ll want a hat, scarf and leg warmers for evening chats around your imaginary campfire. Again, from personal experience, I’ve found that cropped trousers or those that aren’t too baggy (and that you can tuck into socks) are best — no matter how dry it is, the ground around the taps and toilets always inevitably gets waterlogged and extra muddy. Don’t do what I did last year and traipse mud into your bed! Free People’s Hailee’s Sweater Co-Ord is the perfect length and is made with a textured waffle-knit material that keeps you cool when needed and toasty at night.
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The sun will be in the earth sign of Taurus from 19th April to 20th May. This marks the middle of spring in the Northern Hemisphere and autumn in the Southern Hemisphere. It is a time when we put our creativity to the test and feel an increase in joie de vivre. It’s also a moment to pause and reflect; we will all, slowly, smell the roses.
Venus, the Planet of Love, money, and confidence, rules over Taurus. And this month, our focus is on romance, pleasure and luxury. We want to engage with the world through our senses and awaken our gentle emotions. However, due to Taurus’ stubborn nature, we may encounter some tense moments when changing our perspectives and beliefs, despite the cosmic push to do so in the upcoming weeks.
The Jupiter and Uranus conjunction in Taurus, happening on 20th April, will push us out of our comfort zones. Change can be difficult during Taurus Season as we love comfort and predictability. The Jupiter-Uranus alliance will cause us to make significant changes, ones that could enhance our lives permanently. Jupiter is the Planet of Expansion, and Uranus is the Planet of Revolution, which means there will be exciting and surprising results, particularly when it comes to love and money. But this event will also have a global effect, and we can expect shifts in political power.
A few days after the Jupiter-Uranus conjunction, the pink full moon in Scorpio rises on 23rd April. The Scorpio moon is a lunar placement that makes us go deep within ourselves. Since it opposes the sun in Taurus, we are struggling with the need to simplify matters rather than to intensify them. We are going to feel a tug of war within our hearts — do we want to chase our passions or do we want to play it safe. With the full moon squaring Pluto in Aquarius, we will be drawn to, once again, embracing change and augmenting our dreams to attain a tangible version of our desires.
Mercury’s retrograde journey from the beginning of the month is ending on the 25th, which is good news for all of us — this period made us reflect on and contemplate the issues that came up during this time. It’s worth noting that Mercury will remain in its post-retrograde zone, known as retroshade, until May 13. Therefore, we may see a resurgence of the situations and drama we faced during the eclipse season and the retrograde. However, we must continue to strive for the best until we find a way to overcome them.
With the commencement of Venus entering Taurus on 29th April and Mars moving into Aries on 30th April, we are going to witness several changes. This is because both Venus and Mars will be in their dignified positions, thereby gaining immense strength. This could result in significant declarations of love and financial disagreements. It is crucial to find a common ground to resolve these issues. However, Taurus is known for its charm and charisma, which can help in temporarily resolving problems.
From 2nd May to 11th October, Pluto will be retrograde, beginning in Aquarius and dipping back into Capricorn. During this period, we’ll have the opportunity to reflect on our personal growth and relationships and avoid repeating past mistakes. We’ll be able to revisit unresolved issues from the past year and work towards healing and resolution.
The upcoming new moon in Taurus on 7th May is an excellent opportunity to turn our dreams into reality. With the grounding energy of Taurus, we can channel our efforts into manifesting our deepest desires. By nurturing our creative and innovative ideas, we can bring our visions to life. Remember to be patient and persistent, as the process may take some time, but the result will be well worth the effort.
Mercury’s movement into Taurus on 15th May will make us more stubborn than ever. There will be no flexibility and flux in our mindset, making us stick to the plans instead of understanding that things can change and happen along the way that can temporarily detour us from our path. Reach out for help, let your feelings be known, and take everything carefully. Also, feel free to alter your perspective or stance without hesitation.
Let’s take small steps towards growth and be open to new opportunities. Though it may be challenging to break away from our old ways during Taurus Season, exciting changes are on the horizon that will bring amazing experiences.
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Mercury retrograde ends this week on the 25th — hooray! But before we get there, we’re still integrating the potent effects of the Jupiter-Uranus conjunction in Taurus that we experienced last Saturday (the 20th). We’ll continue to feel the effects of this conjunction for weeks and months to come, so make sure to look at your birth chart to see where Taurus energy falls in your birth chart, as this will be the sector that is most potently transformed over the course of Taurus Season.
Speaking of Taurus Season, we’re officially in the first full week of the season, and all zodiac signs will feel a remarkable shift from the more energetic and unpredictable energy of Aries Season to the more grounded, mellow, and stubborn vibes of having the sun in Taurus. Then on the 23rd, the Scorpio full moon lights up the skies and infuses the cosmos with much passion, power, and magnetism, making this week an ideal week for saying yes to what makes you feel emotionally fulfilled.
Start the weekend in the spirit of celebration because you will have made it through the first Mercury retrograde of the year once Mercury shifts direct in Aries at 12:54 p.m. on the 25th.
Read your horoscopes for your Sun and Rising signs for the most in-depth forecast.
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Aries Sun & Rising:
Aries Season has come to an end, but with Mercury shifting direct in your sign on the 25th, Venus still in your sign until the 29th and Mars getting ready to enter your sign on the 30th, you’ll very much feel like you’re experiencing the sequel of Aries Season, and that your powers of magnetism and attraction are deepening each day. This is partially due to the Jupiter-Uranus conjunction in Taurus that took place last week in your sector of security and money — tap into that abundant energy as you set your goals for the week, and know that your manifestation abilities are intensely strong right now, Aries.
The Scorpio full moon on the 23rd makes you act in more Scorpio-like ways, because both you and Scorpio are ruled by Mars, the Planet of Action. Since your sector of health, wellness and service is lit up by this moon, you may suddenly feel inspired to improve your health or daily routines. Just make sure to not overdo it, because the final days of Mercury retrograde in your sign can make you feel restless and all over the place. Fortunately for you, Mercury ends its retrograde in your sign on the 25th!
Taurus Sun & Rising:
Happy Taurus Season! The Sun is officially in your sign for the next four weeks, making you the cosmic favorite. This is doubly the case, because last Saturday’s Jupiter-Uranus conjunction in your sign transformed your life for the better, from the inside out. If you don’t yet feel the positive effects of this conjunction, stay patient and you’ll start to notice them unfolding in the days and weeks to come. Perhaps you’ll manifest a dream partner (or deepen a connection with an existing one) due to this week’s Scorpio full moon in your partnership sector. Do not fear the love entering your life — instead, fully embrace it.
Then on the 25th, Mercury, the Planet of Communication, ends its retrograde through Aries. This retrograde activated your sector of healing, closure, and solitude, which is why you may have been a bit of a hermit these past three weeks. But now that Mercury is shifting direct, you’ll feel more ready to share some of your spiritual downloads and awakenings with those who are a vibrational match. Open up and heal in community.
Gemini Sun & Rising:
Congrats, Gemini — as of the 25th you will have made it through your ruler Mercury’s first retrograde of 2024. It took place in your sector of friendship, tech and social networks, so if these areas of your life felt a bit wonky, you’ll slowly but surely start to feel like it’s all starting to realign and that you have greater clarity about who you can lean on in your community, and who you may have outgrown or are not compatible with at this phase of your life.
The Scorpio Moon on the 23rd activates your sector of health and wellness, encouraging you to get clear on toxic habits that may be holding you back from the next level of your ascension. Use this full moon to purge the dead weight and acknowledge unhealthy patterns. Be patient with yourself during this process, as Mercury will shift direct on the 25th but will be in its post-retrograde shadow phase until 6th May. Make your healing process a gradual and consistent one.
Cancer Sun & Rising:
It’s a full moon week, Cancer, so if you’re feeling extra sensitive, it’s absolutely normal. The Scorpio full moon takes place on the 23rd in your sector of fate, true love and creativity. Since you’re moon-ruled, you’ll feel the effects of this lunation for the rest of the month of April — and potentially longer. The key is to be honest with yourself about ways you haven’t let your inner child play, be loved, and have fun. This week is your chance to start over and to prioritise your bliss, unapologetically.
Mercury ends its retrograde in Aries on the 25th in your sector of career, legacy, and reputation. We’ll still experience a post-shadow period until 6th May, but you’ll already start to feel more confident and optimistic about what’s possible for you professionally. If you’ve been underpaid or unsatisfied with your current occupation, you may receive an opportunity to switch up your career or leap into entrepreneurship. If it feels right, go for it.
Leo Sun & Rising:
Now that you’ve experienced the Jupiter-Uranus conjunction in your career sector, you’re acting, moving and breathing differently. This first full week of Taurus Season has you reflecting on ways to make strategic but also simple shifts to your work routine so that you’re less frazzled and more grounded in your decision making. Just keep in mind that Mercury remains retrograde until the 25th, so it might not be until this weekend that you start to notice your brain fog decreasing.
On the 23rd, a full moon in Scorpio activates your sector of roots, the home, and your legacy. A major development from the past six months is likely to come full circle around this time. This may mean birthing a baby, moving in or out of a home, redecorating, relocating, or re-evaluating what your values are and why. Your mission is to not take yourself or others too seriously under this more intense transit. Learn the lessons but also be able to let go of your need to fully master them. Use Mercury’s shift direct on the 25th to take it all breath by breath.
Virgo Sun & Rising:
Virgo, your planetary ruler Mercury ends its retrograde in Aries on the 25th. There will still be a two-week post-shadow experience to navigate, but you’re almost on the other side of what was quite a restless and at times confusing retrograde. On the 23rd, the Scorpio full moon provides you with a sense of closure regarding matters you’ve been wanting to speak your mind about. But keep in mind that it may not be until May that you really gain clarity in that regard, so pace yourself and avoid prematurely burning bridges.
Once Mercury shifts direct in Aries on the 25th, you’ll start to feel greater confidence when it comes to any joint ventures you’ve been trying to get off the ground these past few weeks. If you’ve been exasperated by miscommunications, you may notice yourself laughing through the awkwardness now that you’ve made it through the Scorpio full moon and that Taurus Season is harmonising with your Virgo nature. Do something fun this weekend that reminds you to not take yourself or life too seriously.
Libra Sun & Rising:
Libra, now that the sun is travelling through Taurus, you’re being encouraged to slow your roll and tend to life’s details. The south node in your sign has made you hyper focused on fixing yourself, but what if you just focused on being yourself? Use the Scorpio full moon on the 23rd to get clear about what your values and most important priorities are. Chances are that whoever or whatever has been distracting you (in an unhealthy way) will naturally fade out of your life around this lunation. Send them off with peace.
Once Mercury shifts direct in Aries on the 25th, you’ll receive even more enlightening downloads regarding who your true ride or dies are. The final stretch of April will help you better discern when people have your best interests at heart, and when you’ve overly compromised your own needs in order to not rock the boat. Now that you know better, move better.
Scorpio Sun & Rising:
You’ve been paying attention to the signs, symbols, and synchronicities in your life, Scorpio, and it’s all aligning beautifully for you this week due to the Scorpio full moon occurring on the 23rd. You’ll feel the effects of this lunation as soon as the week begins, and all throughout Taurus Season.
The fact that this full moon occurs three days after the Jupiter-Uranus conjunction and two days before Mercury retrograde ends means that you may be at a crossroads of sorts. You’re being asked to tune into your heart center, block out all the distractions, and make an intuitive and honest decision.
But since Mercury is still retrograde until the 25th (and we’ll experience a two-week post-shadow period), you shouldn’t make a decision that’s set in stone. The Universe is asking you to focus on how you want to feel right now in the present moment, while also acknowledging that life is evolutionary in nature, and your needs or desires may shift. Use this first full week of Taurus Season to work out any confusing matters with someone in your orbit who you deeply trust.
Sagittarius Sun & Rising:
Sag, how are you feeling now that your planetary ruler Jupiter has conjoined with Uranus, the Planet of Surprise? You’re most likely buzzing with excitement at whatever positive shifts have occurred in your life lately. And if you don’t yet see signs of progress, be patient just a while longer, because Mercury remains retrograde in Aries until the 25th, which could lead to delayed gratification. Now that the sun is in Taurus for the next four weeks, you’re being encouraged to take the step-by-step approach rather than rushing to the finish line.
On the 23rd, the Scorpio full moon lights up your sector of spirituality, healing and closure. You may not be in the mood to be the life of the party this week, but rather the quiet recluse who’s observing their environment and taking mental notes. This may initially surprise your friend group or loved ones, but you don’t have to explain yourself right now… There’s a lot of shadow work you’re undergoing this week, but you’ll soon re-emerge with a new set of wings.
Capricorn Sun & Rising:
Capricorn, this first full week of Taurus Season is likely to feel good for your nervous system, especially after the more tumultuous vibes of Aries and eclipse season. But since we’re still experiencing Mercury retrograde in Aries until the 25th, you’re not fully out of the woods when it comes to unexpected challenges, so do your best to avoid getting caught up in ego trips or power struggles if things don’t seem to go your way at some point this week. Keeping your cool and maintaining your composure will pay off for you.
The Scorpio full moon is a major highlight of the week, and it takes place in your sector of friendship and social networks. You may decide to call it quits in regards to a group that you’re part of, or you may acknowledge the fact that you’ve outgrown some parts of your social circle. There’s no need to be super dramatic about it, but if you feel the urge to distance yourself or do your own thing, trust it. At the same time, this full moon could help kickstart a new or evolved way of making friends and connecting with your community, both online and offline.
Aquarius Sun & Rising:
Aquarius, you’ve made it through the conjunction between Jupiter and your planetary ruler Uranus, and you’re probably looking at life from a completely different perspective than you were just a week ago. Give yourself plenty of time this Scorpio full moon week to integrate into this new dimension of life, especially now that the sun has entered the grounded sign of Taurus for the next four weeks. While you may initially feel uncomfortable with the slower pace of this transit, you’ll also realise that there are benefits to intentionally pacing yourself.
Another thing to keep in mind is that Mercury is retrograde in Aries until the 25th, and this activates your communication sector. So even if your mind is buzzing with plenty of visions and ideas due to the recent conjunction, you’d benefit from writing them down in your journal and circling your favourites rather than trying to immediately leap into action. Once Mercury’s post-shadow period ends on 6th May, you’ll have the green light to move full steam ahead.
Pisces Sun & Rising:
Pisces, you’ve just experienced an epic conjunction between your planetary ruler Jupiter, and Uranus, the Planet of Surprise. This first full week of Taurus Season is about expressing and exploring your multi-dimensional nature with the spirit of fun and play at the centre of it all. Enjoy this final full week of Venus in Aries, activating your sector of security and self-esteem. This transit has boosted your confidence and overall ability to magnetise what you want into your life, so make the most of it. Get dressed up, flirt, dance and make love if you feel called.
The Scorpio full moon on the 23rd is one of the sweetest lunations of the year for you, but also potentially one of the most dramatic. It activates your sector of expansion and philosophy, allowing you to daydream about new places you’d want to move to, subjects you’d want to study and people you’d want to meet. But since Mercury is still retrograde in Aries in your money and security sector until the 23rd, you’re being asked to balance practicality with imagination. You can dream up infinite possibilities, but also remember the importance of coming back down to earth and tangibly making those dreams come true.
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Alert the Ton! Bridgerton Season 3 is almost on our doorsteps, where we’ll watch Colin Bridgerton on his knees, begging and grovelling (we hope!) for the love of Penelope Featherington.
While we’ll take any excuse to watch Nicola Coughlan and Luke Newton’s stare into each other’s eyes, the decision to move #Polin’s story to third in the TV show, rather than its book place as fourth, is a bold move. So much so, that it’s sent Bridgerton fans into a frenzy, analysing every word and every move the cast makes in hopes of discovering what couple Season 4 will be focusing on.
Is it our boy Benny, who we’re dying to see get the infamous Bridgerton glow-up (as if it were possible for Luke Thompson to get even more gorgeous)? Or perhaps it’s our favourite whipsmart Eloise, who fans are begging to see finally fall in love. Or maybe, it’s someone we haven’t been keeping an eye on…
Ahead, we spoke to new Bridgerton showrunner Jess Brownell, who we tried to squeeze for as many answers about Season 4 as we possibly could.
Who is the lead for Bridgerton Season 4?
We’re sleuthing. We’re reading. We’re investigating. But at this stage, all lips in the Ton are very, very tightly sealed and we have no concrete answers.
However, at a recent red carpet event for the Australian premiere, Refinery29 spoke to new Bridgerton showrunner (and overlord) Jess Brownell, to try and find out who will be taking over in Season 4.
Understandably, Brownell was very tight-lipped — but did give some interesting information that we’ll no doubt be analysing for months to come.
“I can tell you that I know who it’s gonna be,” Brownell laughs. “We are in the middle of writing it right now.”
With Benedict’s book as number three in the series, there’s a good chance we might watch Luke Thompson take the crown as our leading man next season as he falls in love with Sophie in a Cinderella-inspired story.
However, next season may be better placed with the likes of Eloise (Claudia Jessie), who has been a fan-favourite since Bridgerton‘s inception.
There’s also a surprise spanner that some people might not expect, with the likes of Francesca (Hannah Dodd) also a high possibility for Season 4. Dodd has taken over the reins of Francesca for the first time in Season 3, taking over from the recast Ruby Stokes. It’s expected that we’ll see more of her story unravelling this season with her official introduction into society (feathery hat and all!).
While we don’t have concrete answers yet, you can bet your bottom dollar that we’ll be updating this piece with all the sleuthing we can find.
When is Bridgerton Season 4 released?
Thanks to strikes and pandemics, fans had to wait over two years after Kanthony to see Polin’s story unfold. Two! Years!
While we’re praying that we won’t see that much of a wait this time, we still don’t know when Season 4 will be dropping — but we do know that it’s still being written right now.
“We actually don’t know when it’s gonna drop,” Brownell told Refinery29. “We’re still making sure that we write the best possible script that we can before we start production.”
“But we’re really thrilled with what we’ve been working on,” she continued. “So hold out hope!”
Will future Bridgerton seasons depart from the nooks?
With Brownell shaking up the order of the Bridgerton love stories, fans have been left wondering if there are any more shake-ups coming our way in future seasons.
“I am really not trying to shake things up too much,” Brownell tells us. “I really believe in the vision of the show.”
Brownell explains that if there are departures from the books, it’s in service of the story. “I really want to serve the stories and the books the best way possible,” she says.
“It just naturally felt like, for Penelope and Colin, it made sense to lean into a romantic comedy tropes,” she explains. “So this season does have a bit more humor in it and it has the awkward banter. So that’s something that will feel slightly elevated in terms of being different from last season.”
“I’ll be a kind Bridgerton overlord,” she laughs.
Don’t worry, we might not have answers (yet), but as soon as we’ve got details, you’ll be the first to know.
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While we mostly hear about the myriad health benefits of vitamin C, especially as an immunity booster, the ingredient is also highly effective in skincare. Considering it currently has 8.4 billion views on TikTok, it wouldn’t be an exaggeration to call vitamin C the “it” ingredient of the skincare world right now.
As an antioxidant, it protects skin against environmental aggressors such as pollution and even UV when combined with sunscreen. It tackles multiple skin concerns in one go, ranging from uneven skin tone to discoloration. “Free radicals generated by sunlight and pollution pose a constant threat to healthy-looking skin,” says Wanda G. Chandler, master aesthetician at SkinSpirit, a New York-based skin clinic. She suggests that vitamin C makes a great addition to your morning skincare routine, particularly if you’re keen to prevent sun damage and pigmentation.
There is a staggering amount of vitamin C products available on the market, and certainly lots more budget-friendly choices compared to just a few years ago. This is especially true for the serum category, which for many people is a gateway product to the active ingredient. With our exposure to sunlight and pollution set to climb in the warmer months ahead, we have tapped trusted skincare professionals and editors for their go-to vitamin C serums. Read ahead for their tried-and-true recommendations that will work across different budgets and skin types.
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
The Ordinary Ascorbyl Glucoside Solution 12%
“By now, you probably know my stance on vitamin C serums: They aren’t right for everyone, particularly those with very sensitive or reactive skin. Still, the sway of brighter, protected skin (vitamin C is an antioxidant, so it shields skin against environmental aggressors like pollution and even UV when used alongside SPF) is strong.
“Considering my skin doesn’t do very well with pure vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid on ingredients lists) I asked GP and dermatology expert Dr Anita Sturnham for advice. She pointed me in the direction of ascorbyl glucoside: It’s derived from vitamin C but is much less potent than L-ascorbic acid. “It’s the only derivative of vitamin C which is converted into ascorbic acid in the skin, so you get all the ascorbic acid benefits without the reaction,” she told me. This serum makes my skin gleam in all the right places and fades red skin staining left behind by acne breakouts quickly, all without the dreaded tingle, or worse, sting of pure vitamin C. Even better? It’s under £15.” — Jacqueline Kilikita, Deputy Beauty Director
The Ordinary Ascorbyl Glucoside Solution 12%, $, available at Cult Beauty
Garnier Pinea-C Brightening 3 in 1 Serum Cream
“I like multi-tasking products because they simplify routines. Using a vitamin C product without also using sun protection can dramatically decrease benefits. This Garnier serum-cream is the multi-tasker I would recommend. The pineapple enzymes help to gently exfoliate while vitamin C does the main job of brightening. The formulation also includes SPF 30, which is extremely important for making progress with [minimising] hyperpigmentation. There are lots of sunscreen products that also contain antioxidants because this does enhance protection, but this one is available at a nice price point and the texture is both lightweight and moisturising.” — Dr. Hadley King MD
Garnier Pinea-C Brightening 3 in 1 Serum Cream, $, available at LookFantastic
SkinCeuticals Phloretin CF Antioxidant Serum
“Phloretin CF by SkinCeuticals is one of my favorite vitamin C products. This lightweight serum contains a blend of phloretin [an antioxidant derived from apples] vitamin C as well as ferulic acid [an antioxidant found in the cells of oranges, apples, rice and oats]. Phloretin is a powerful antioxidant that also aids in the absorption of vitamin C and ferulic acid in the skin. Due to its glycerin-free formula and lower dose of L-ascorbic acid [pure vitamin C] this formulation is an ideal antioxidant for oily or sensitive skin types. It delivers protection from free radical damage and improves the appearance of fine lines and discolouration.” — Dali Gandara, master aesthetician at SkinSpirit Manhattan Beach
SkinCeuticals Phloretin CF, $, available at Look Fantastic
Bioderma Pigmentbio Brightening Vitamin C Face Serum
“This stuff is powerful, and you’re only meant to use it for a month at a time before having a break — so those with sensitive skin, beware. If your skin does just fine with strong actives, however, I’m convinced nothing works quite like it. I’m currently on my second bottle of this and when it runs out, I will go ahead and buy a third. When I use this, I always get compliments on how glowy my skin looks and I find marks left over from spots fade considerably fast. I also just break out less often. The serum uses a blend of vitamin C (you ‘activate’ the product when you first open it by dispensing the powder inside) as well as exfoliating acids like glycolic and salicylic acid. My skin tingles lightly when it first goes on, but it’s nothing severe. Always follow this one with SPF the next day!” — Tanyel Mustafa, Senior Writer
Bioderma Pigmentbio Brightening Vitamin C Face Serum, $, available at Sephora UK
U Beauty Resurfacing Compound
“Let me first start by saying that this product is an investment. I wouldn’t normally recommend a 30ml product for £138, but this stuff is the real deal. U Beauty’s Resurfacing Compound changed my skin for the better. After just a week of using it, my skin was visibly brighter — dark spots lightened and my overall face just appeared more vibrant. I’ve continued to use it day and night and the texture and tone of my skin continues to improve. The product also contains retinol, which might seem scary, but the combination of the two, plus vitamin E and other antioxidants makes for my ultimate dream team. I can’t recommend it enough.” — Sara Tan, Beauty Director
U Beauty Resurfacing Compound, $, available at Cult Beauty
Paula’s Choice C15 Super Booster
“I really like this product because it contains an effective concentration (15%) of the most studied form of vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid or L-AA). Although vitamin C alone has been shown in studies to protect the skin, this formulation pairs it with vitamin E and ferulic acid which has been shown in studies to increase the protective effect of vitamin C eight-fold. Even better, although L-AA can be irritating to the skin, this formula includes glycerin, castor oil and rice bran extract so it’s much more tolerable.” — Papri Sarkar, M.D., board-certified dermatologist
Paula's Choice C15 Super Booster, $, available at Space NK
Dr. Barbara Sturm The Good C Vitamin C Serum
“If you’re looking to make a serious investment in your skincare, The Good C Vitamin C serum will be worth every penny. It’s formulated with an optimal 5% vitamin C, which is stabilised and can be easily absorbed into the skin without being too harsh on the skin barrier. Other star ingredients include hyaluronic acid to deliver moisture, and zinc to aid faster absorption. I use this in the morning on the days I’m more exposed to sunlight and pollution as an extra shield, and it has done a great job at evening out the hyperpigmentation on my forehead.” — Venus Wong, Senior Writer
Dr. Barbara Sturm The Good C Vitamin C Serum, $, available at Dr. Barbara Sturm
Yon-Ka Intensive Vitamin C Serum C20
“Vitamin C is one of the most common skincare antioxidants on the market. What sets Yon-Ka Intensive vitamin C serum C20 apart is its potent formulation of 20% ascorbyl tetraisopalmitate, an oil-soluble form of vitamin C, plus soothing turmeric and richly moisturising apricot kernel oil. This is a great choice for mature skin for fighting free radical damage that we are all subject to on a daily basis and even more so in the summer months. The serum provides instant glow, but those with acne-prone skin should avoid using it.” —Dr. Blair Murphy-Rose, dermatologist and founder of Skincare Junkie
Yon-Ka Intensive Vitamin C Serum C20, $, available at Amazon
Wild Science Lab Juice Boost Brightening Serum
“This stuff is super powerful but also super gentle. t uses stabilized vitamin C (which, thanks to our Deputy Beauty Director’s vitamin C break down, I now know is the better version of the stuff) along with hyaluronic acid to hydrate, aloe vera to soothe, moisturising sweet almond oil and six essential oils to balance the skin. Basically, it’s perfect for my sensitive, dry skin and I have no issue using it daily. It’s thick in texture but sinks into the skin beautifully, leaving it feeling quenched and plumped from the inside out. It also imparts a glow and smells gorgeous; rich and juicy, just like the name promises — like a yummy orange smoothie. In fact, I didn’t truly realise just how much of a difference it was making to my skin until I ran out. Even after just a few days, that glow dimmed and my bumpy skin texture returned.” — Esther Newman, Affiliate Writer
In Apples Never Fall, tenniscore style is at the core of the limited series. “Competition and tennis — that intensity of sports and what sports bring to someone’s life — it becomes such a big part of people’s identity,” says costume designer Allyson B. Fanger. The mystery drama surrounds the disappearance of West Palm Beach matriarch Joy Delaney (Annette Bening), who cofounded the local tennis academy with her pro-turned-coach husband Stan (Sam Neill).
When coming up with the Apples Never Fall costumes, Fanger assigned each Delaney family member a champion persona and sourced looks from athletic brands like Lululemon, Alo Yoga, and The Upside, as well as fashion labels like Tory Burch, Ciao Lucia, Sandro, and Polo Ralph Lauren. Logan (Conor Merrigan Turner), who prefers sailboats to serving, channels the more sartorially subversive Bjorn Borg and Andre Agassi, famed for his ’90s-era Nike acid-washed tennis jorts. Mesh polo shirt-sporting venture capital bro Troy (Jake Lacy) nods toward the rakish Roger Federer. And while free — or lost, rather — spirit Amy (Alison Brie) shed her Maria Sharapova affectations in favor of caftans years ago, the baby of the family and physical therapist, Brooke (Essie Randles), channels Anna Kournikova, with a closet full of Lacoste, Sporty & Rich, and Adidas. (Bening’s and Neill’s costumes were inspired by Martina Navratilova and Jimmy Connors, respectively.)
“Brooke was the closest and the most sympathetic to her father, so that’s why we kept her very sporty throughout [the show],” says Fanger, pointing out the similarity of Brooke’s zip-ups and sporty pants to Stan’s oft-worn Fila tracksuit.
Even two years into the TikTok-driven trend, tenniscore continues to rally (sorry). In the last year alone, Pinterest searches for “tennis aesthetic” increased by 37.5% and “cute tennis outfit” spiked by 69.65%, while “tennis fits” surged by 150%. Lacoste — the unofficial fifth Delaney sibling — is focusing its ambitious 2024 retail strategy on the intersection of tennis and fashion, with past partnerships including a Royal Tenenbaums-inspired collection with Goop. Sporty & Rich just released its second Tennis Drop and last year’s US Open winner Coco Gauff covers the Vogue April issue in a sparkling gold Michael Kors Collection version of an on-the-court dress. Plus, the surging popularity of pickleball calls for more opportunities to demonstrate tennis style while volleying in a more laidback environment.
When launching Laurel Canyon Tennis Club in 2022, founders Tiger Curran and Laurie Berger wanted to infuse more “personality” into the performance market. The Los Angeles-based brand’s offerings include vibrant prints and bold colors paying homage to the counterculture spirit and fashion of the ’60s and ’70s and untraditional styles like a “tennis bikini,” featuring a supportive bralette top and high-waisted bottoms with a hidden ball pocket, and a tennis dress referencing Chris Evert’s 1972 Wimbledon circle-adorned look by couturier Ted Tinling.
“It is really fun to see a little bit more individuality on the court,” says Curran, who’s also a costume designer. “The viewers of matches appreciate that, too. Like seeing a match played between two people in the exact same outfit isn’t necessarily as interesting.”
This might explain why tennis style is having such a big moment onscreen, with the aesthetic reaching its cinematic fever pitch with the April 26 release of the Challengers featuring costumes by JW Anderson and Loewe designer Jonathan Anderson and costume designer Margaret Robbs. Following Zendaya as a pro-turned-mentor, the film’s looks include a black Adidas tank with red-trimmed athletic shorts, a white tennis dress, and a Cartier Love bracelet for court side.
But before then, in the 1969-set comedy-mystery Palm Royale (premiering on Apple TV+), irrepressible striver Maxine (Kristin Wiig) uses a tennis fit — and fashion in general — as a tool to gain acceptance into the society set. For an impromptu set of doubles, Maxine spends money she doesn’t have at the members-only club shop on a white mini-dress with orange embroidery at the neckline, which matches a floral visor and pom-pom socks.
“Maxine is always just trying to fit in,” says Palm Royalecostume designer Alix Friedberg. “Her attempts had nothing to do with actually playing the sport and more to do with looking the part.” Friedberg based Maxine’s dress on an original Fred Perry look from the period, and also looked to the sportier mod stylings of Mary Quant and Pierre Cardin.
Later, Maxine and Palm Beach golden girl Dinah (Leslie Bibb) — who wears a vintage Givenchy Sport cardigan and a coordinating pleated mini skirt and beret — hit the tennis-adjacent golf course, more interested in gossiping and quaffing cocktails than teeing off. In a deft physical comedy sequence, a sloppy Maxine exposes the delicately ruffled white undershorts component of her colorfully checked skort, a moment that brings to mind when Gertrude “Gussie” Moran scandalised Wimbledon in 1949 by wearing lace biker-style shorts under her tennis whites, also by Tinling.
Of course, envelope-pushing tennis style isn’t a new phenomenon. In 1921, French player Suzanne Lenglen provoked some pearl-clutching when she debuted a sleeveless, knee-length crepe de chine dress by Parisian designer Jean Patou at Wimbledon. Tinling created distinctive tennis fashion for champions from the ’50s to ’80s, including Billie Jean King’s embellished dress which she wore to play Bobby Riggs in the famous 1973 “Battle of the Sexes” (immortalised in the Emma Stone-starring 2017 movie of the same name). Three-time Vogue cover star Serena Williams continues to make fashion and political statements through her trendsetting Nike collaborations (and her red-carpet and front-row endeavors).
“[Tennis players are] the original influencers,” says Friedberg. “It’s just dialed up by a million now in modern times.”
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It’s been an emotional few weeks for Jeb Jagne. A 24-year-old Londoner, he never saw himself as a hiker or leader. Both changed. While out one evening, he spotted five people he vaguely knew having dinner — and the sight made him “burst into tears”. Not because he wasn’t invited: they were happy tears. The group he saw all met not too long ago via Jagne’s monthly hiking group, Overground, and seeing that his efforts had resulted in real friendships was moving. This was everything the hiking group was about. The next rewarding moment for Jagne came at the start of April this year, when, one Saturday morning in the overcast weather, 500 strangers aged 22 to 30 came together to hike in Surrey Hills. Overground had gone viral on TikTok and grown massively from the original 40 attendees. People — many of whom came alone — were willing to get up early, take a 90-minute train away from home, trudge on through mud, walk uphill, and get to know people along the whole way. It’s one thing for a video to get likes and shares, and it’s another for people to proactively make a note of the details and turn up. At the end of the hike, they all crammed in and posed for a photo.
While Gen Z is branded the loneliest generation, we’re seeing that people want to change that: Book clubs are booming in popularity, running clubs are becoming a regular sight along city roads, and now hiking is yet another way young people are seeking out new connections and friendships. It’s an activity that was once associated with older generations, but now on TikTok, an app where 60% of users are Gen Z, there are 3.5million videos under #hiking. The latest Sport England Active Lives report found that hill and mountain walking has continued to grow in popularity more than any of the other 80 sports assessed. Young people are partly responsible for that, as those aged 25-34 are the most likely to regularly participate in hiking, doing it at least twice in a month.
Walking and talking, this is what Jagne and his peers wanted. “A lot of my friends were moving away, so I was confronted for the first time with actively trying to make friends. Also, I’m a florist so I work unsociable hours,” Jagne says. He started finding walks to do, initially solo, but then reached out on social media in a bid to find others who would be up for joining. “What started as something I really needed in order to add structure to my routine has now become other people’s structure. It’s become that anchor. It now exists for other people,” he adds. “Whenever I would tell people what I was doing, their first thought when they hear ‘walking group’ is 80 year olds, right? But young people want to get outdoors, and as a queer person of colour I never see myself represented in the outdoors.”
Hiking has a diversity problem: Only 1% of visitors to National Parks in the UK are people from ethnic minority backgrounds. A study published last year by hiking group Ramblers found the “whitest parts” of England and Wales have 144% more local paths to walk, meaning those in ethnically diverse areas are less likely to hike due to having less access. But this is a long-standing problem that people have been trying to fix for years: The collective Diversify Outdoors started in the US in 2017, and aims to encourage more Black, queer and minority background people to occupy outdoor spaces, such as trails. So when Jagne says the attendees of his walks “represent the diversity in London”, that’s no small feat.
Walking “dissolves barriers” between people, as Katie Holmes, 27, puts it. She’s one of Overground’s attendees and joined in search of friends. Having moved from Dublin to London in March 2021, she “struggled to anchor [herself] as a true ‘Londoner’,” she says. “Leaving behind the tight-knit community of Dublin, where everyone seemed to know everyone else, I soon realised I really felt out of my depth. Loneliness crept in.” Then the TikTok algorithm brought her to Overground and she decided to turn up. Jagne says his DMs are flooded with people asking if they can come to his walks alone. “I always say we actually encourage it to get that full experience. People meet via the group then return together the next time. It’s really beautiful to see these friendships forming,” he says.
Hiking might seem intimidating to the inexperienced, but it doesn’t have to be. Emily Thornton, 35, and Lucy Hird, 30, both from Manchester, are two women behind a social media account Soft Girls Who Hike. They coined the term “soft hiking” a year ago and define it as “focusing less on the activity and difficulty level, instead thinking about being kind to yourself when hiking in the outdoors. The goal is not to reach the finish line at the fastest pace but to take your time and enjoy the surroundings.” Thornton and Hird came to this mindset after trying to walk with “seasoned hikers” whose style they found to be strenuous and less enjoyable. Since taking up hiking together, Hird says: “We feel we know each other even better than we ever did before, and have lots of deep chats on our walks.” The pair then joined Merrell Hiking Club, which champions a “female-led space”. Their favourite hike so far took place in the Lake District last year, where they met people who’d been following their soft hiking journey online. “We had feedback that people were forming new friendships through hikes, including two young mums who went out together with their babies in prams,” Hird adds. Making ventures like hiking accessible to a wider canon of people — not just gym buffs — can only be a good thing when it comes to easing societal isolation.
Muslim Hikers, a group that welcomes people of all backgrounds but predominantly has Muslim attendees, walks around the UK and fosters a space in which Islamic people feel safe in the outdoors. When modest dressing, for example, is rarely accounted for in form-fitting fitness gear, it’s vital that people of faith still feel welcomed. Safura Said, 30, from Halifax, West Yorkshire, joined for her 29th birthday last January. “I wanted to spend the last year in my 20s by pushing myself out of my comfort zone and being a better version of myself,” she says. “Usually, I allow my anxiety to get the better of me and this ends up keeping me from trying the things I want to. But this time, I signed up to one of the hikes not knowing anyone which was a huge step for me.” And it’s a good thing she did, as she has now made “lifelong connections and friends”. Said adds: “I have always lacked the feeling of being part of a community and belonging. For the first time, I felt like I belonged. I came across so many other single mums like myself too. Hiking has become an integral part of my life.”
Anecdotally, a friend living in Amsterdam tells me hiking has become a “thing” out there, too. Another person in New York says they hike with Outlandish, and travel an hour or two out of Brooklyn for walks. Are we embracing the mental health benefits of being outdoors, while looking for company? Is the low-cost factor appealing? Annabel Streets, author of 52 Ways to Walk, says all of this is valid, but the truth is walking sets you up for building connections — whether we realise it consciously or not. “We find it much easier to open up to people when we don’t have to be eyeballed by them,” Streets explains. “There’s a rhythm to walking that helps us relax, in a way that we don’t sat across a table from someone. We’re more compassionate when outside than in spaces with low ceilings, research suggests. Studies have also shown that we often fall into step with people we like or expect to like, which psychologists call synchronisation. When we walk at the same pace and rhythm as another person we produce oxytocin — sometimes called the love or bonding hormone — which makes us feel closer to our walking companion, happier and more relaxed. This means we’re more likely to share information or self-disclose, and therefore to bond more quickly.” Hiking with a group also makes us feel safer, she adds, and speaks to our deep history, in that we “evolved walking as groups of nomadic hunter-gatherers, so walking in a group feels very natural.”
Jagne speculates his generation’s turn away from the heavy boozing that previously defined youth social culture is to do with the increased popularity of sports and outdoor activities. Streets thinks there’s something in this too. “It’s in the news a lot at the moment that our age group is just not drinking,” Jagne says. “I used to be a DJ and I met so many great friends through nightlife. I almost think now, if you were moving cities, aren’t big on going out, and you just started a new job, you wouldn’t know where to look for friends. Like, where would you meet people?” Outdoors, with the latest hiking kit, it now seems.
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The environment has a lot to answer for when it comes to our skin. Thanks to elements such as pollution and UV rays, you might notice dullness, hyperpigmentation, fine lines and other bugbears over time, but antioxidants can help combat all of that. Working to shield skin from environmental factors, vitamin C is an antioxidant, as is ultra moisturising vitamin E. There’s another buzzy antioxidant ingredient worth knowing about, too. Enter: ferulic acid.
Of course, ferulic acid is nothing new and thanks to brands like SkinCeuticals and The Ordinary, it’s probably already on your radar. But unlike its popular counterpart vitamin C, it’s something of an unsung hero – not least because it has the power to make your skincare products work a hell of a lot harder. So how exactly should you use ferulic acid in your routine and is it right for you? Here’s everything you need to know about the little ingredient doing big things in skincare.
What is ferulic acid in skincare?
“Ferulic acid is a plant-based antioxidant found in the cells of rice, oats, apples and oranges,” explains Dr Parisha Acharya, skin expert and aesthetic doctor at Waterhouse Young Clinic. “It protects against oxidative stress (a disturbance which occurs in the skin) by neutralising free radicals,” essentially pollution and UV rays which fill the environment. Ferulic acid is usually found in skincare serums, which are a little more potent than moisturisers and penetrate the skin better.
What does ferulic acid do for skin?
The benefits of ferulic acid are mainly its antioxidant properties, says Dr Acharya. “It helps protect from environmental stressors that cause skin ageing,” she says. “It works to reduce the signs of ageing, such as fine lines and pigmentation (or dark spots) but it also improves firmness and illuminates the skin, helping to even out skin tone.”
How should you use ferulic acid in skincare?
Like antioxidant vitamin C and sunscreen, Dr Acharya recommends using ferulic acid daily and in the morning, as the daytime is when you’re more likely to come into contact with environmental aggressors. When exactly should it factor in? “Cleanse and tone as usual, then use your product containing ferulic acid and finish off with your SPF moisturiser,” says Dr Acharya.
Skin expert and facialist Lisa Harris concurs. “Ferulic acid works very well under SPF, as it increases protection against UVA and UVB rays,” she says. “I always advise my clients to apply an antioxidant serum, especially in hot sunny climates, as this will protect the skin of damage.”
Dr Acharya suggests investing in a serum in particular but mentions it should be stored in a dark cupboard away from heat and moisture, to prolong the potency. “To fully benefit from ferulic acid in skincare, I would recommend using a product that contains ferulic acid alongside other antioxidants such as vitamin C, E and resveratrol,” Dr Acharya adds.
Vitamin C is most popular and ferulic acid works particularly well with it. “Vitamin C isn’t very shelf-stable on its own and it degrades quickly, especially when exposed to sunlight,” says Harris. Ferulic acid actually helps stabilise vitamin C, prolonging your product. “It also improves the way it is absorbed into the skin and makes your vitamin C last longer on the skin,” continues Dr Acharya. In other words, ferulic acid and vitamin C are the dream team for glowing skin.
What are the best ferulic acid skincare products?
R29 rates Drunk Elephant’s C-Firma Fresh Day Serum, which contains the dynamic duo of 15% pure L-ascorbic acid (a powerful form of vitamin C) and 0.5% ferulic acid to firm and brighten the skin. Dr Acharya likes SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic, which combines vitamin C, E and ferulic acid for bolstered protection against the environment. Team with a high factor SPF, like Glossier’s new-and-improved Invisible Shield SPF 50, and you’re good to go in the morning.
If that’s a little out of your budget, The Ordinary’s Resveratrol 3% + Ferulic Acid 3% brings together antioxidant resveratrol (found in grapes) and ferulic acid. It’s slightly heavier than your typical serum but absorbs well, hydrates and sits perfectly under sunscreen and makeup.
Also try Dr. Dennis Gross Ferulic + Retinol Wrinkle Recovery Overnight Serum. This one is slightly different as it’s an overnight treatment thanks to retinol, which works better as part of a nighttime routine. Over time, it works to fade dark spots. If you use this, it’s really important to wear SPF 50 during the daytime (and to reapply regularly) as retinol can make skin very sensitive to sunlight. Another affordable option we love is the NIP+FAB Vitamin C Fix Concentrate Extreme 15%, which contains ferulic acid for an extra boost in efficacy.
Are there any side effects of ferulic acid?
According to Harris, some forms of ferulic acid are derived from oats, so if you are allergic to them, you could be sensitive to this particular source. “You should stop using any product containing ferulic acid if you develop any of the following side effects,” says Harris. “Redness, rash, hives, itchiness or skin peeling.”
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