Gayathri Kallukaran is a Junior Journalist with Eastern Eye. She has a Master’s degree in Journalism and Mass Communication from St. Paul’s College, Bengaluru, and brings over five years of experience in content creation, including two years in digital journalism. She covers stories across culture, lifestyle, travel, health, and technology, with a creative yet fact-driven approach to reporting. Known for her sensitivity towards human interest narratives, Gayathri’s storytelling often aims to inform, inspire, and empower. Her journey began as a layout designer and reporter for her college’s daily newsletter, where she also contributed short films and editorial features. Since then, she has worked with platforms like FWD Media, Pepper Content, and Petrons.com, where several of her interviews and features have gained spotlight recognition. Fluent in English, Malayalam, Tamil, and Hindi, she writes in English and Malayalam, continuing to explore inclusive, people-focused storytelling in the digital space.
Delhi-based content creator Simran Anand has captured widespread attention on social media after she upcycled a 20-kilogram patchwork bedsheet into a unique and eye-catching lehenga. Sharing the process with her followers on Instagram on 1 July, Simran highlighted the creative transformation of a traditional decorative textile into a fashionable statement piece.
The striking fabric was discovered during a casual visit to Janpath, one of Delhi’s popular street markets. The bedsheet, although heavy and originally intended for home décor, featured intricate hand embroidery, mirrorwork, and patchwork – elements commonly found in festive wall hangings in regions like Gujarat and Rajasthan.
“These types of embroidered textiles are usually hung as tapestries or used as festive décor,” Simran noted. “But I saw fashion in it,” she added, referring to the moment she decided to turn the bedsheet into a garment. Inspired by ideas on Pinterest, she took the fabric to a local tailor and collaborated with him to create a custom lehenga.
The result was a bespoke outfit that retained the charm of the original patchwork while embracing a modern silhouette. The lehenga quickly gained attention online, with many social media users praising her creativity and the craftsmanship involved. One commenter wrote, “Love a smart woman with an amazing fashion sense, love this on youuu.” Another applauded the tailor’s skill: “Lucky bhaiya is so skilled ❤️.” A third user even suggested exploring more pieces: “A blazer out of this would have been so good too, another one!!”
Patchwork has increasingly emerged as a trending element in fashion, blending sustainability with style. Simran’s project reflects a growing shift towards mindful fashion choices and showcases how traditional or overlooked fabrics can be reimagined into statement garments. Her approach not only highlights individual creativity but also promotes the value of upcycling and working with local artisans.
Transforming a 20kg decorative item into wearable fashion underlines the evolving nature of design today, where vision and innovation are often found outside conventional fabric stores. As fashion continues to explore sustainable practices and cultural references, creations like Simran’s patchwork lehenga demonstrate how inspiration can come from the most unexpected sources.
M&S advert banned for promoting an "unhealthily thin" body image
ASA criticised model's pose, outfit, and styling
Retailer claimed campaign aimed to showcase confidence, not slimness
ASA previously banned similar ads by Next and others
A Marks & Spencer (M&S) advert has been banned after the UK’s advertising regulator said it irresponsibly depicted a model as “unhealthily thin”.
The Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) raised concerns over the model’s pose and outfit, including pointed shoes that exaggerated the slimness of her legs. The advert appeared on the M&S app and is no longer in use.
The ASA ruled that the M&S advert must not appear again in its current form, urging the brand to avoid promoting unhealthy body standards in future campaigns.
M&S responds to advert ban
M&S defended the campaign, stating it was intended to portray “confidence and ease”. The retailer said the model was selected with regard to her health and suitability, and the styling choices were purely fashion-driven.
The company added that its womenswear range is inclusive and adheres to industry health standards. M&S also noted it had withdrawn or updated other images investigated by the ASA.
Watchdog flags visual proportions in image
According to the ASA, the model’s head appeared out of proportion with her body, further drawing attention to her slim figure. This contributed to the impression that the image promoted an unhealthy body type.
While three other M&S ads were reviewed, none were banned, though the retailer chose to amend them voluntarily.
M&S joins list of brands with banned fashion ads
The M&S advert ban follows a similar decision involving high street chain Next earlier this year. An advert for skinny jeans was removed due to concerns that the model’s pose and camera angles emphasised thinness.
Next maintained the model had a “healthy and toned physique” and disagreed with the ASA’s ruling.
Separately, TV personality Gemma Collins was found to have breached advertising rules by promoting a prescription-only weight-loss drug on Instagram. Her post was among nine banned in a recent ASA crackdown.
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The Great British Sewing Bee is back for 2025, welcoming 12 new home sewers to the sewing room
Hosted by Sara Pascoe with judges Patrick Grant and Esme Young
12 contestants will compete across 10 themed sewing challenges
Each episode features a Pattern, Transformation, and Made to Measure challenge
Opening week focuses on shaping garments including pleats and circle skirts
Sewing Bee returns with a fresh cast of home sewing talent
The Great British Sewing Bee is back for 2025, welcoming 12 new home sewers to the sewing room. Host Sara Pascoe returns to guide the competition, alongside judges Patrick Grant and Esme Young, who will evaluate each contestant’s technical ability and creative flair.
Spanning 10 weeks, the series will feature themed challenges ranging from artistic and historical references to cultural inspirations like the 1920s and Korean fashion. Contestants will face the usual trio of tasks each week: a Pattern Challenge, a creative Transformation Challenge, and a Made to Measure Challenge where garments are tailored to real models.
This week’s theme centres on “creating shape”. Contestants must sew a tie-front blouse, transform a circle skirt into a new outfit, and design a pleated dress that fits perfectly. One sewer will be awarded Garment of the Week, while another will be eliminated.
The 2025 Sewing Bee line-up
Caz Age 59 | Staffordshire | Retired After retiring from the family printing business, Caz has devoted more time to sewing, which she began at age 11. She enjoys technical sewing, including French seams and topstitching.
Kit Age 24 | Manchester | Digital marketer Kit taught themselves to sew at school and returned to the hobby at university. They create one garment per week and are drawn to turning unusual fabrics into stylish pieces.
Gaynor Age 72 | Port Talbot, Wales | Retired office manager Gaynor has sewn since the 1950s and now teaches her granddaughter. Her style is described as smart and traditional.
Jess Age 33 | London | Head of communications Jess began sewing as a child to connect with her mother and grandmother. She resumed the hobby during lockdown and continues to create her own clothing.
Órla Age 19 | Inverness | Café worker and student The youngest contestant, Órla started sewing four years ago and enjoys experimenting with both androgynous and feminine looks. She dreams of building a self-made wardrobe.
Peter Age 45 | Devon | Senior pre-construction manager Peter took up sewing after watching the show with his daughters. He focuses on practical garments and enjoys upcycling, such as turning old jackets into bags.
Glendora Age 59 | Luton | Bus driver Glendora began sewing at eight and has since made over 30 quilts. She values durability and quality in her creations.
Yasmin Age 30 | Gateshead | Research and development scientist Yasmin learned to sew from her father, who inspired her to apply to the show. She honours his memory through her sewing, including a pink zebra dress they made together.
Novello Age 66 | London | Business owner and magistrate Inspired by Blue Peter, Novello began sewing at five and received her first machine at age seven. She enjoys creating unique and personalised garments.
Dan Age 37 | Durham | Performer Dan started hand-stitching garments at 10 and now uses his sewing skills to make costumes for stage performances.
Saffie Age 32 | London | Lecturer in Product and Industrial Design Taught to knit by her great-aunt at age eight, Saffie now creates a functional and stylish wardrobe using patterns from independent designers.
Stuart Age 53 | Herefordshire | Premises manager Stuart began sewing in 2020 intending to make hats but quickly expanded his repertoire. He combines practicality with creativity in his work.
How to watch
The Great British Sewing Bee 2025 airs weekly on BBC One, beginning Tuesday 15 July at 9pm.
Tune in to see which of these talented sewers will impress the judges and make it to the final.
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Former tennis player and current presenter Annabel Croft
Annabel Croft spotted courtside in statement Gucci trainers during Wimbledon
Paired the footwear with a pleated blue dress by Boss for a sporty yet polished look
The platform sole offered subtle height without compromising on comfort
White trainers remain a key smart-casual trend, suitable for a wide range of outfits
Annabel Croft embraces sporty style at Wimbledon
Former tennis player and current presenter Annabel Croft made a notable appearance at Wimbledon this weekend, combining elegance with comfort through a smart-casual ensemble. Dressed in a pale blue pleated dress by Boss, she completed the look with Gucci platform trainers, blending classic tennis aesthetics with modern fashion.
The knife-pleat design of the dress referenced traditional tennis skirts, while the fitted T-shirt silhouette gave the outfit a distinctly athletic feel. Her trainers featured Gucci’s red and green web stripe, offering a designer twist on the classic white trainer trend.
Statement trainers with added comfort
Annabel’s shoes included a platform sole, providing extra height while maintaining the comfort expected from trainers. This style aligns with the ongoing sports-luxe trend, which combines fashion and function, and shows how white trainers can elevate polished outfits without relying on heels.
White trainers, in particular, have become a wardrobe staple, known for their versatility. Their neutral base makes them ideal for dressing down occasionwear or adding a casual element to otherwise formal outfits.
How to replicate the look
Annabel’s exact pair is the Gucci Ace Sneaker with Web, featuring a sleek white base and the brand’s signature red and green stripes. While her specific version includes a platform sole, Gucci offers several variations:
Gucci Ace Leather Low-Top Trainers: A timeless option with the same colour detailing and classic silhouette.
Gucci Re-Web Supreme Canvas Trainers: A subtle alternative with the brand’s stripe on the tongue and a sportier profile.
For similar looks at more accessible prices, other options include:
Reebok Club C 85: A retro-style low-top trainer with subtle red, white and green accents.
Gola Mark Cox Tennis Trainers: With off-white and green tones, this pair reflects a traditional tennis shoe aesthetic.
Veja Urca Trainers: Sustainable and minimalist, featuring the brand’s signature “V” for a pop of colour.
Fairfax & Favor Alexandra Platform: A more understated take with navy and tan detailing on a crisp white base.
White trainers: a year-round staple
White trainers continue to dominate fashion trends in 2025, especially as a go-to for smart-casual dressing. Their clean look pairs effortlessly with summer dresses, tailored trousers, or casual denim.
Although Croft’s Gucci pair makes a bold statement, the predominantly white design remains understated enough to be worn with a variety of outfits. The key to maintaining the look is regular cleaning and proper storage, as worn-in trainers can undermine their smart appeal.
Whether for a day at the tennis or a relaxed weekend outing, Annabel Croft’s Wimbledon footwear choice reinforces the timeless versatility of white trainers.
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Chandran wore lambskin shorts and a green cashmere sweater for her Wimbledon appearance
Charithra Chandran attended Wimbledon as a Ralph Lauren ambassador, turning heads in a vintage-inspired ensemble.
Her look echoed Bridgerton character Edwina Sharma, with soft curls and a classic summer palette.
Fans online praised her poise and outfit, with many saying she outshone stars like Andrew Garfield.
The actress wore a green cashmere sweater, tailored lambskin shorts and white Nappa pumps.
Charithra Chandran’s Wimbledon appearance might have been behind Hollywood stars Andrew Garfield and Monica Barbaro, but her crisp summer ensemble made sure all eyes found her. Dressed head-to-toe in Ralph Lauren, the British-Indian actress brought understated elegance and old-school charm to Centre Court, and social media took notice.
Charithra Chandran styled her hair in soft curls for the Ralph Lauren outfitInstagram/charithra17/
A Ralph Lauren moment with a Bridgerton nod
Charithra arrived at Wimbledon 2025 in a look that paid homage to her Bridgerton roots while firmly placing her among fashion’s rising stars. Wearing a sleeveless green cashmere sweater layered over a crisp white shirt, she paired the look with tan lambskin shorts and sleek white Nappa pumps, giving preppy summer chic a polished, modern upgrade.
She styled her hair in soft vintage curls, writing on TikTok that her look was “Edwina inspired,” referencing her breakout role in the hit Netflix period drama. She later posted the outfit on Instagram, captioning it, “Repping @wimbledon green with @ralphlauren. Wouldn’t be summer without it.” The post quickly gained traction, with fans and fashion watchers alike praising her effortless charm.
— (@)
Fans say she 'stole the spotlight' from Hollywood A-listers
While Andrew Garfield and Monica Barbaro were seated directly in front of her, and even made headlines for their courtside chemistry, many online noted that Chandran quietly stole the moment. One user tweeted, “Charithra Chandran is so beautiful, I didn’t even notice Andrew Garfield.” Another added, “Serving face, grace and Wimbledon-worthy class.”
Reddit threads lit up with praise for her presence and look, with several fans highlighting how refreshing it was to see a dark-skinned South Asian woman at the centre of attention at such a high-profile event. The comments ranged from “She should be a Disney princess” to “That’s the definition of quiet luxury.”
Style with substance: why Chandran’s fashion matters
Chandran’s choice to embrace a look so rooted in vintage elegance and British tailoring also mirrors her own journey. She is an Oxford graduate who brings intelligence, poise, and presence both on-screen and off. As a brand ambassador for Ralph Lauren, she has consistently delivered looks that nod to heritage while adding her own contemporary vibe to it.
In a media landscape that still underrepresents South Asian women in luxury fashion spaces, Chandran’s presence at Wimbledon in a leading designer’s box, and in their outfit, felt quietly radical. She wasn’t just there; she belonged there.
Charithra’s look was inspired by her character Edwina Sharma from BridgertonInstagram/charithra17/
From Bridgerton to fashion’s front row
While Charithra Chandran is best known for playing Edwina Sharma in Bridgerton Season 2, she’s no stranger to reinvention. Recent credits include Dune: Prophecy and the upcoming season of One Piece, where she plays Nefertari Vivi. Off-screen, she’s rapidly becoming a name to watch in the fashion world, with red carpet looks that bring together tradition and trend with striking ease.
Whether she’s portraying a royal on screen or sitting in the royal box in real life, Chandran’s presence is part of a larger shift towards a more diverse, intelligent, and graceful representation in both fashion and film.
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The handbag is now the most valuable ever sold at auction
The original Hermes Birkin bag sold for £7.4m at Sotheby’s Paris.
It belonged to British actress and singer Jane Birkin.
The handbag is now the most valuable ever sold at auction.
It ranks as the second most expensive fashion item sold globally.
A record-breaking sale
The original Hermes Birkin handbag, once owned by British actress and singer Jane Birkin, has been sold for £7.4 million at a Sotheby’s auction in Paris, setting a new world record for the most valuable handbag ever sold at auction.
The sale, held on Thursday, saw the iconic fashion item exceed all expectations, with Sotheby’s calling it “a startling demonstration of the power of a legend.” The bag is now also the second most expensive fashion item ever sold at auction, following the £24 million paid for Judy Garland’s ruby red slippers from The Wizard of Oz in 2024.
The origin of the Birkin
Jane Birkin, a celebrated figure in French and British cinema from the 1960s onwards, inspired the creation of the handbag during a chance encounter in 1981. She was seated next to Jean-Louis Dumas, then artistic director at Hermes, on an Air France flight. Using a wicker basket as her carry-on, Birkin remarked that handbags at the time were too small for her needs.
In response, Dumas began sketching potential designs with Birkin on the back of an airline sick bag. Hermes introduced a prototype in 1985 and asked for Birkin’s permission to name the new style after her. The design quickly gained traction and evolved into a status symbol within the fashion world.
Cultural significance and celebrity appeal
Since its launch, the Birkin bag has been associated with luxury and exclusivity. It has been carried by global celebrities including Kate Moss, Victoria Beckham, Khloe Kardashian and Jennifer Lopez.
Speaking about the sale, Morgane Halimi, Sotheby’s global head of handbags and fashion, said: “It is a startling demonstration of the power of a legend and its capacity to ignite the passion and desire of collectors seeking exceptional items with unique provenance.”
Previous record and global recognition
Before this auction, the highest-selling handbag was the Hermes white Himalaya niloticus crocodile diamond retourne Kelly 28, which sold for £380,000 in 2021. The sale of the original Birkin now marks a defining moment in both fashion history and the luxury collectibles market.