
Wash knows all: Braves coach looked insulted replay was needed on game-winning play
The Atlanta Braves beat the Pittsburgh Pirates 6-5 on Wednesday, but their game-winning run was nearly taken off the board. Thankfully, Ron Washington was there to save the day.Top of the eighth inning, tie ball game. Austin Riley at the plate, runners on the corners for the Atlanta Braves. The ...
1970-01-01 08:00

David Hunter: Cyprus prosecutors appeal against manslaughter conviction
He was convicted of the manslaughter of his seriously ill wife but could be tried again for murder.
1970-01-01 08:00

Government urged to remove VAT from period pants
More than 50 MPs, retailers and charities have written to the government urging it to remove the 20% VAT on period pants, the reusable underwear designed to be worn as an alternative to using tampons and sanitary towels. Other period products such as pads, tampons and menstrual cups are exempt from VAT, but consumers currently pay a 20% tax on period pants as they are classified as garments. The letter, signed by 35 MPs and peers, the chief executives of Marks & Spencer and Ocado, the publisher of Hello! magazine and several charities and non-profit organisations, including Breast Cancer Now, the Marine Conservation Society and Forum for the Future, calls on Financial Secretary to the Treasury Victoria Atkins to reclassify the pants as period products in the Chancellor’s autumn statement later this year. The government made a brilliant start by removing VAT from disposable period products but we need them to finish the job and level the playing field so that whatever period product someone chooses to use, it is VAT free Victoria McKenzie-Gould, M&S M&S has also launched the new Say Pants to the Tax campaign with the period underwear brand Wuka, promising to pass on 100% of any cost savings to shoppers if it is successful. A five-pack bundle of period pants at M&S costs £35, but would be £28 without VAT, while a pack of three – currently £20 – would drop to £16. M&S, which said it sells more than 6,000 packs of the pants each week, and Wuka calculated that their customers combined had paid more than £3 million in VAT on period pants. A survey of 268 women aged 18 to 54, conducted last month, found that 23% of respondents cited cost as a reason for not using period pants, with 83% in favour of dropping VAT from the products. Period pants can be washed and worn again for months, which means they can save consumers money and help reduce plastic waste. Wuka estimates that one pair of period pants can save 200 single-use plastic disposables from going to landfill. Victoria McKenzie-Gould, corporate affairs director at M&S, said: “The government made a brilliant start by removing VAT from disposable period products but we need them to finish the job and level the playing field so that whatever period product someone chooses to use, it is VAT free. “Nearly 25% of women cite cost as a barrier to using period pants. If they were classified as they should be – as a period product – the government can make this brilliant alternative to disposable products a more cost-effective option for UK consumers.” In May, the Treasury said it would analyse whether the removal of the “tampon tax” has helped lower prices. Responding to a written question from the Labour MP Ruth Cadbury, the government said a tax reduction was able to “contribute to the conditions for price reductions” and it was “looking into whether this important zero rating is being passed on by retailers to women as intended”. Read More Charity boss speaks out over ‘traumatic’ encounter with royal aide Ukraine war’s heaviest fight rages in east - follow live How to lower your blood sugar levels, as new research reveals heart disease link Remove VAT from period pants, government urged ‘Long Covid has taken away my ability to eat food or urinate in three years’
1970-01-01 08:00

How to get the ‘quiet luxury’ look on the high street
Fads come and go, but when is a trend not a trend? “The ‘quiet luxury’ anti-trend is an understated approach to dressing that can be perfected by styling timeless, low-key staples with minimalistic designs,” says Sheila McKain, chief product officer at Hush. Indeed, when celebrating classic tailoring, ‘quiet luxury’ proves a little goes a long way. Think pared-down pieces that don’t shout ‘look at me,’ but have a certain ‘je ne sais quoi’ that makes you look effortlessly chic and rich – without a logo or label in sight. To master this aesthetic, McKain says you don’t have to spend thousands on high-end designer pieces: “It’s more about choosing great quality and thoughtful design – selecting core items you can use to create a base is key.” She says trophy pieces include a classic blazer, wide-leg trousers or straight-leg jeans and a crisp, white shirt. “When styled together, each of these pieces can create a multitude of everyday looks,” suggests McKain. To ensure you get the most wear out of each item, she says to keep colours neutral and stay within a palette of brown, beige, black and white. As far as accessories go, she says jewellery should be kept minimal with something as simple as a small hoop earring. If this sounds a little too safe, a gold bangle or carefully selected thin gold necklace chains (styled effortlessly) will luxe up your look to the desired effect. As Sian Ryan, director of design at River Island, puts it: “Quiet luxury is essentially a wardrobe of styling essentials, where items can be worn in a multitude of ways and span many seasons – ensuring customers get a true sense of value for money.” Here’s how to get the look… 1. The white shirt “My favourite outfit at the minute is a white shirt teamed with a straight-leg jean and pointed-toe kitten heel,” says Ryan. “When I wear this, I feel put together, yet effortless. I like to think of it as ‘easy elegance’.” Whether you wear your crisp, white shirt open with a sleeveless white vest underneath, or buttoned up nonchalantly, go a size larger to make it look more expensive. Longer in the sleeve, wider on the shoulder and a little more length gives it that luxurious, designer feel. Hush Pia Oversized Cotton Shirt, £79 Asket The Lyocell Shirt, £100 2. Neutral knits “Neutral knitwear in super-soft luxury yarns are perfect for when the days turn cooler,” says Karen Peacock, Albaray’s co-founder and chief creative officer. “A chic colour palette that goes with everything helps create multiple ways to wear.” Remember, fabrics play a leading role, so look for soft-to-the-touch in a smooth yarn for a cashmere cheat – or some texture for your rib crib-sheet. Reiss Evie Cashmere Wool Hooded Cardigan, Camel, £128 Albaray Merino Wool Rib Jumper, £129 – available mid August 3. Tailored jacket “An elevated blazer in a heritage check looks ideal styled with a classic jean and white T-shirt combination,” suggests Peacock. “A simple look which creates an easy, pared-back luxe look.” River Island Beige Rolled Sleeve Blazer, with Linen, £69 Albaray Check Wool Blazer, £175 – available mid August 4. Straight-leg jeans Whether you go for a washed look or mid-wash blue, a looser fit is encouraged to make them look premium. And remember, no obvious branding on the bum or rips on knees. Plus, if you can comfortably pose with hand-in-pocket, you’re in the inner circle for classy, desirable denim. Primark Cares Straight Leg Denim Jeans, £16 Hush Agnes Straight Jeans, £79 5. Camel coat Looking ahead and transitioning into Autumn, a timeless camel coat always looks effortlessly chic. Naturally, the colour plays a part. Camel isn’t practical, it shows every mark and therein lies the beauty of it – you’re wealthy enough to fork out for dry cleaning bills. “A camel coat offers versatility and a sense of polish to any outfit,” notes Peacock. A welcome addition to any wardrobe, she says a masculine silhouette and slight oversized fit allows for multiple layering opportunities… we’re thinking an ivory sweater tied around the shoulders, just so. Lipsy Military Blazer Coat, Camel, £64, Next Reiss Mia Wool-Blend Mid Length Coat, Camel, £328 6. Gold jewellery “From understated hoops to simple chains, the quiet luxury trend is about choosing the right pieces, and keeping it simple, timeless and refined,” says Sally Arkley-Wade, head of product and trading at H Samuel. She says to focus on quality materials and subtle details to create elegant and sophisticated looks. “Team your plain white top, those everyday jeans or timeless shirt with affordable must-haves,” suggests Arkley-Wade. “Choose from 9ct gold chains, stack up your ear with 9ct gold hoops, or invest in the finer details – whatever your style, you will find something to suit your budget.” And select pieces which can be worn with a variety of outfits, she adds. “Mix and match delicate necklaces, stack thin rings, or layer bracelets to add depth and interest to your overall style.” Accessorize Small Simple Hoops, Gold, £3.20 (was £4) From top: H Samuel 9ct Yellow Gold 16 Inch Curb Chain, £89.99; 9ct Yellow Gold 18 Inch Rope Chain, £129 (was £159); 9ct Yellow Gold 18 Inch Anchor Chain, £269, rest of items from a selection. Read More Charity boss speaks out over ‘traumatic’ encounter with royal aide Ukraine war’s heaviest fight rages in east - follow live 6 survival tips for parents of live-at-home university students What is TikTok’s ‘soft life era’ and could it be the secret to happiness? Kim Kardashian teased as the face of a major fashion brand
1970-01-01 08:00

Graham Ascraft Says Jazz Chisholm 'Pissed Me Off'
Graham Ashcraft said Jazz Chisholm Jr. "pissed" him off.
1970-01-01 08:00

Michael Lorenzen no hitter makes Phillies trade look genius: Best memes, tweets
The Philadelphia Phillies may have won the MLB trade deadline, as starting pitcher Michael Lorenzen threw a no-hitter in his second start with the team.The Philadelphia Phillies were in the midst of the NL Wild Card picture on the day of the MLB trade deadline and decided to make a push for a st...
1970-01-01 08:00

Former Chiefs Super Bowl-winner arrested with drugs, guns in stolen car
Former Chiefs Super Bowl winner and longtime NFL veteran Bashaud Breeland was arrested in Charlotte with drugs and multiple guns in a stolen vehicle.Bashaud Breeland, a former NFL cornerback who spent eight seasons in the league, was arrested in Charlotte, NC during a traffic stop this week, as ...
1970-01-01 08:00

Niger's coup leader General Tchiani: The ex-UN peacekeeper who seized power
Gen Tchiani has triggered a major crisis by overthrowing the president he was meant to guard.
1970-01-01 08:00

US concerned for ousted Niger president Mohamed Bazoum's health
Deposed president Mohamed Bazoum's party has also claimed he is being detained under "cruel" conditions.
1970-01-01 08:00

Yankees rumors: Hal Steinbrenner has mind made up about Brian Cashman
The New York Yankees are hurdling toward last place, but don't expect major changes in management.The New York Yankees are in fourth place and 11.5 games out of first in the AL East. Per FanGraphs, the team has a whopping 11.7 percent chance of making the playoffs. Their odds to win the Wor...
1970-01-01 08:00

2023 Leagues Cup Round of 16: Aug. 8 results
The last day of the 2023 Leagues Cup Round of 16 is here, and it was a good one. There was a lot of action that brought on penalty shootouts, close matches, red cards, and then one blowout match. If you are a soccer fan, this was the day you wanted to watch the Round of 16.Five matches were play...
1970-01-01 08:00

Ron Rivera has Eric Bieniemy's back at Commanders camp
After some Commanders players complained to Ron Rivera about Eric Bieniemy's coaching style, Rivera unsurprisingly backed his offensive coordinator.The Washington Commanders may be entering the 2023 season with one clear motto: Show no weakness.In a cutthroat division with their rivals ...
1970-01-01 08:00