Why is he not made of willow? Why is he plaited and not woven? World’s basket makers have plenty of questions

Hollywood heart-throbs are known for their good looks and charisma. But in a classic plot twist, the latest big-screen dreamboat causing viewers to get hot and bothered isn’t even human.

Alexander Skarsgård’s Wicker Husband character in the romcom Wicker has sent the internet into a frenzy.

High fashion looks without a big budget? Follow our frugal guide to pinch the biggest autumn/winter ‘26 catwalk trends for free

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Dark mornings, darker evenings and the end of Celebrity Traitors. It’s easy to feel a bit meh at this time of year. However, without sounding too TikTok life coach, just as you are encouraged to winter-proof your morning routine (light a breakfast candle, make your favourite cup of tea) to start your day on a brighter note, the same approach could be applied to your wardrobe. An outfit you look forward to wearing to the office or an accessory update that can make a long-term favourite piece feel new again, can help put some much-needed pep in your step. That’s even when the forecast reads five days of rain in a row.

The autumn/winter 2026 collections shown on the catwalks way back in February (yes time works funny in fashion) have finally hit shop floors, and high-street brands have been quick to pay homage. But there are plenty of styling tips and tricks you can borrow for free. Here are nine to get you started …

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‘Ugly’ shoes, once the preserve of the catwalk, have gone mainstream. Why are so many people taking a walk on the wild side?

Until recently, a busy commuter train would be packed with people wearing low-key, unobtrusive shoes. An elegant and inoffensive pump, a sporty trainer or a polite and basic ballet flat, they were the type of shoes that said background extra rather than main character energy.

But now change is afoot. Deliberately strange designs are reaching new heights of desirability. Polarising rather than pretty, these shoes tend to be flat, a little bit orthopaedic and, according to the internet, “ugly”.