Princess Isabella, 18, Just Raided Queen Mary’s Wardrobe for Cannes-Worthy Prada (And We’re Obsessed!)
Right, darlings, gather ’round, because if there’s one thing we love more than a major royal fashion moment, it’s a major royal fashion moment that involves a bit of wardrobe raiding. And Princess Isabella, at a chic 18 years old, just delivered on all fronts. The daughter of King Frederik and Queen Mary was the absolute spitting image of her stylish mother in more ways than one as she stepped out onto the balcony of Frederik VIII’s Palace to celebrate King Frederik’s 57th birthday this past Monday. Not only is that gorgeous long brunette hair making her Queen Mary’s undeniable double, but our eagle eyes immediately clocked what made her look so effortlessly put-together: a stunning Prada blouse straight from her mother’s illustrious wardrobe. This designer gem, with its delicate chiffon overlayer, intricate floral embroidery, and that oh-so-on-trend pussy bow neckline, was a true standout. And honestly? It feels incredibly 2025 – proving that great style, especially when it’s Prada, is truly timeless. For those keeping score, Her Royal Highness Queen Mary first graced us with this very blouse back in April 2018, when she opened the ‘Transformation’ photo exhibition. She styled it impeccably with wide-leg black trousers and those killer patent stilettos. It even made a virtual appearance during her opening speech at the Womenomics Nordic Business Conference in 2021. Talk about getting your cost-per-wear! Isabella, however, proved that a royal hand-me-down can feel utterly fresh. And while she might have been the sartorial star of the balcony moment, Queen Mary herself was, of course, present and equally chic, rocking a sophisticated navy Soeren Le Schmidt dress, teamed with Gianvito Rossi snakeskin pumps and an exquisite leaf brooch by Ole Lynggaard Copenhagen. Because clearly, the apple doesn’t fall far from the exceptionally stylish tree. Consider Princess Isabella officially our new royal style crush. Sustainable, elegant, and effortlessly chic? She’s got it all.
Margaret Qualley Just Floored Us with the Most Exquisite Chanel Gown at Cannes
It is a truth universally acknowledged (at least here at La Mode UK) that Margaret Qualley wouldn’t know a sartorial misstep if it hit her squarely in the face. What’s more, The Substance actor never shies away from a truly daring styling moment – and, yes, somehow her unwavering commitment to originality always seems to pay off. Whether she’s rocking a bold fur, a striking print, or an impossibly tiny miniskirt, there truly is no garment she won’t make her own. Perhaps it’s her former life as a dancer, imbuing every look with that signature, effortless elegance. And what, we ask, could be more elegant than an ethereal, utterly luxurious Chanel number? Precisely. This past weekend, Qualley graced the Cannes Film Festival to present her latest film, Honey, Don’t! – and, naturally, she turned to her trusty Chanel. For this occasion, she captivated us all in a sublime nude gown crafted from a flowing silk fabric, featuring a delicate sweetheart neckline adorned with a charming flower appliqué at the centre. This divine creation, we discovered, was directly inspired by the Spring 1990 Chanel archives. A stroke of genius, if we do say so ourselves. But here’s the kicker, the detail that truly elevated this look from stunning to iconic: she paired it with a pair of simple ballet flats. Perfection! It’s that unexpected, playful twist that defines Qualley’s style. A long-time ambassador for the iconic French fashion house, Margaret Qualley consistently injects a unique touch of romance and whimsy into her Chanel ensembles. Just cast your mind back to her glamorous backless number at the Oscars, or those utterly dreamy swan sandals. She understands that true chicness isn’t about rigid rules, but about an innate sense of self – and she, darling, has it in spades.
Jennifer Lopez Just Debuted “Astral” Nails at the AMAs, And We’re Utterly Starstruck
Twinkle, twinkle… could J.Lo be any more of a manicure muse right now? Perhaps it’s her penchant for soft, delicate designs, like the ethereal fairy nails she sported during rehearsals for Saudi Arabia’s F1 Grand Prix. Or maybe it’s her clever twists on a classic nude, hitting that sweet spot between capturing our imagination and adding just the right amount of sparkle, all while remaining undeniably office-appropriate. Either way, she’s just served up another seriously lust-worthy manicure, courtesy of her long-time nail maestro Tom Bachik, for the American Music Awards (AMAs) on May 26th. In a post that immediately had us double-tapping, Tom spilled the details on the “Astral Flash Mani” he crafted to perfectly complement J.Lo’s show-stopping performance look, which he so aptly described as “a futuristic crystal covered circuit board. So Sik!” Honestly, we couldn’t agree more. Get Your Glow On: The “Astral Flash Mani” Breakdown Tom revealed his secret weapon: Aprés Astral Flash Gel in Santo My Palo. He kept it as a sheer wash on her nails, a genius move considering J.Lo’s eight outfit changes throughout the night. Eight! The polishes in Aprés Astral collection are inspired by the elements – fire, water, earth, or air. Santo My Palo, in particular, is best described as an other-worldly nude shade, absolutely brimming with multicoloured, glittery flecks suspended in the gel that catch the light for a mega-watt sparkle. It’s basically stardust for your fingertips. This cosmic hue was the absolute perfect match for the crystal-embellished, nude bodysuit Jennifer Lopez wore to open the AMAs, setting the stage for her blockbuster medley of last year’s biggest hits. But it didn’t stop there. The “Astral Flash Mani” also impeccably picked out the Swarovski crystals on her plunging Miss Sohee halter-neck gown and the sparkling metallic dress with those daring ab-revealing cutouts she sported for her hosting duties. Talk about nail dedication! Recreate J.Lo’s Celestial Style Sadly, the Aprés Astral collection is currently a US-exclusive, which is frankly unchic of them. But don’t fret, because we’ve got some equally dazzling alternatives to help you tap into J.Lo’s celestial vibes right from your own sofa: OPI Nature Strong Natural Nail Lacquer in Mind Full of Glitter Manucurist Green Natural Nail Polish in Gold Nails Inc HD Glitter Power Pigment Polish in Always Electric Rimmel Glitter Top Coat Nail Polish in 019 Disco Diva In terms of length, let’s you in on a little secret: “Jen’s loving a longer nail right now but not too long.” So, when you’re recreating this look, aim for a medium-length squoval nail shape. And hey, while you’re at it, why not add a little manifesting mantra to your mani? After all, a little J.Lo-level cosmic energy never hurt anyone. Will you be channelling your inner J.Lo with an astral manicure? Let us know in the comments!
Chris Brown Faces Legal Turmoil Amid UK Tour Plans
R&B artist Chris Brown is confronting significant legal challenges that could jeopardize his upcoming UK tour. The 36-year-old singer was arrested on May 15 at The Lowry Hotel in Manchester, accused of a grievous bodily harm incident dating back to February 2023. The alleged assault involved music producer Abe Diaw at London’s Tape nightclub, where Brown purportedly attacked Diaw with a bottle, followed by punches and kicks. CCTV footage reportedly captured the incident. Chris Brown was arrested ahead of his huge world tour Credit: Getty Legal Proceedings and Bail Conditions Following his arrest, Brown appeared at Manchester Magistrates’ Court and was remanded in custody. He was later granted bail with stringent conditions: a £5 million security (with £4 million paid upfront), surrendering his passport, residing at a known address, and refraining from contacting co-defendant Omolulu Akinlolu or the alleged victim. Additionally, he’s prohibited from visiting the nightclub involved in the incident. Potential Financial Repercussions The legal troubles pose a significant threat to Brown’s “Breezy Bowl XX” 20-year anniversary tour, set to commence in Amsterdam on June 8, with UK dates starting June 15. Should the tour be canceled, Brown could face lawsuits amounting to millions. Organizers might seek compensation for breach of contract, including ticket refunds (some priced up to £500), venue costs, staffing, and marketing expenses—potentially totaling nearly £5 million per show. The R&B singer is set to appear at Southwark Crown Court in June Credit: Getty Tour Plans Amid Legal Challenges Despite the charges, Brown’s tour is currently proceeding as planned. He is scheduled to perform in cities including Manchester, Cardiff, London, Birmingham, and Glasgow. The tour will continue in North America from July 30 to October 19, with Brown required to return to the UK for a court hearing on October 24. Travel arrangements are being managed under legal supervision to comply with bail conditions. There is growing uncertainty over whether Chris Brown’s tour will go ahead Credit: Getty Civil Lawsuit and Ongoing Investigations In addition to the criminal charges, Diaw has filed a civil claim against Brown, seeking £12 million ($16 million) in damages related to the alleged assault. The case remains under investigation, with Brown’s next court appearance scheduled for June 13 at Southwark Crown Court. References: The Irish Sun Wikipedia
King Charles Confirms Canada Visit Amid Ongoing Rift with Prince Harry
A Royal Return to Canada King Charles III and Queen Camilla are scheduled for an official state visit to Canada from May 26 to 27, their first since Charles became monarch. The trip includes high-level meetings with Governor General Mary Simon and Prime Minister Mark Carney. Notably, Queen Camilla will be inducted into the Canadian Privy Council, reflecting the strength of the royal relationship with the Commonwealth. King Charles and Prince Harry on Sept. 14, 2022. Credit : Jeff J Mitchell – WPA Pool/Getty Image source: People.com Tensions With Prince Harry Continue The visit coincides with renewed tensions between the King and his youngest son, Prince Harry. In a recent BBC interview, Harry expressed a desire for reconciliation but revealed his father “won’t speak” to him, citing ongoing security disagreements. Despite being on the same continent during the visit, no reunion between the two has been planned, highlighting the persistent strain in their relationship. Earlier this month, the Duke of Sussex vented to the BBC about his fractured family dynamics, saying his father “won’t speak” to him. BBC. Image source: NY Post A Symbolic and Strategic Itinerary During their Canadian visit, King Charles and Queen Camilla will participate in several symbolic events. This includes a ceremonial tree planting at Rideau Hall and King Charles delivering a rare address at the state opening of Parliament, underlining the significance of the visit. In preparation, the royal couple visited Canada House in London, marking its 100th anniversary. They were presented with a ceremonial key crafted by Indigenous artist Morgan Asoyuf — a meaningful tribute that reflects the importance of cultural respect and diplomacy. King Charles and his wife, Queen Camilla, have announced that they will be traveling to Canada next week for an official state visit. AP Image source: NY Post A Mission of Unity Amid Personal Strains While the King’s visit seeks to reinforce diplomatic ties and Commonwealth unity, it comes at a time of personal disconnection within the royal family. The contrast between public duty and private discord will undoubtedly shape public perception during this significant state trip. Stay tuned for more royal updates from Painless Universal.
Nicola Roberts and Mitch Hahn Celebrate Engagement with Glamorous Monte Carlo Getaway
Girls Aloud singer Nicola Roberts has publicly shared her first photo with fiancé Mitch Hahn, marking a year since their private engagement. The couple, who have been dating for nearly three years, celebrated Nicola’s father’s 60th birthday in Monte Carlo, with Nicola posting highlights from the sunny trip on Instagram, including a shot of her and Mitch dining at Café De Paris and scenic views of Monaco, including the iconic casino and Formula 1 track. Nicola Roberts with her fiancé Mitch Hahn Credit: Instagram @lilcola Mitch, a businessman and semi-professional footballer, proposed during a holiday to the South of France in summer 2024. Nicola debuted her engagement ring while performing at Brighton Pride alongside fellow Girls Aloud members. The Roberts family were celebrating Nicola’s dad’s 60th birthday Credit: Instagram @lilcola The band reunited in November 2023 for a 29-concert tour in memory of late bandmate Sarah Harding, who died in 2021 from breast cancer at age 39. Nicola and Mitch have kept their relationship private since first being seen together at an Elton John concert in mid-2022. Mitch is CEO of accountancy firm Nordens and has played for clubs including Southend United and Grays Athletic. Nicola got a glimpse of the Monaco F1 circuit Credit: Instagram @lilcola Nicola’s past relationships include Charlie Fennell, Carl Davies—who was convicted of stalking her—Patrick Anderson, and Carl Egerton. As Nicola and Mitch embark on this new chapter, fans and fellow celebrities alike have expressed their excitement and well-wishes for the couple’s future together. Reference: The Sun Who’s Dated Who Closer Entertainment Daily The Standard
Meghan Markle Shares Rare Family Photos, Raising Privacy Concerns
Meghan Markle recently commemorated her seventh wedding anniversary with Prince Harry by sharing a heartfelt collection of previously unseen family photos on Instagram. The post included a touching image of their son, Prince Archie, planting a kiss on his younger sister, Princess Lilibet, in front of a festively decorated Christmas tree. While many fans appreciated this intimate glimpse into their family life, some royal insiders suggest that Prince Harry, known for his strong stance on privacy, may have reservations about the public exposure of their children. Prince Harry and Meghan Markle released this photo of their family for their 2021 holiday card. Alexi Lubomirski / Duke and Duch The Duchess’s Instagram collage featured approximately 40 images chronicling the couple’s journey from their early days to their current life in California. Highlights included snapshots from their initial meetings, vacations, engagement, wedding, and candid moments with their children, such as ultrasound images and photos of Harry holding newborn Archie. Markle released this photo of Harry cuddling Lili on a boat trip on her Instagram in March. Instagram / @meghan This public sharing of family moments marks a notable shift in the couple’s approach to privacy. Previously, Meghan and Harry have been cautious about revealing their children’s faces, often sharing only glimpses or obscured images. However, recent posts have provided more direct views of Archie and Lilibet, showcasing their red hair and engaging in everyday activities like gardening and celebrating Mother’s Day. The Duchess of Sussex paid tribute to her kids on Mother’s Day by posting a photo of them climbing ‘Mama Mountain’. Meghan Markle/Instagram Prince Harry has consistently emphasized the importance of security and privacy for his family. Following a recent legal decision denying publicly funded security for his family in the UK, he expressed concerns about returning to Britain, citing safety issues. This context adds complexity to Meghan’s decision to share more personal family content publicly. Markle posted a photo of her gardening and smelling roses with Lili. Meghan Markle/Instagram In addition to the anniversary post, Meghan has been open about her experiences with motherhood. On her podcast, “Confessions of a Female Founder,” she candidly discussed how her expectations of motherhood have evolved, acknowledging that her journey has been different from what she initially envisioned. Prince Archie was also pictured gardening. Meghan Markle/Instagram As Meghan continues to balance her public persona with personal family moments, the couple navigates the challenges of maintaining privacy while engaging with their audience. Image reference: Page Six
Barbie’s Footwear Evolution Reflects Real-World Trends
Barbie — the cultural icon, the career woman, and the ultimate fashion chameleon — has always been a mirror of societal change. And nowhere is this more evident than in her ever-evolving shoe collection. From pointy pumps to platform sneakers, Barbie’s footwear journey isn’t just about style — it’s a step-by-step walk through decades of real-world fashion and shifting ideals. 1959: The Classic Pump Era When Barbie first strutted onto the scene in 1959, she wore a black-and-white swimsuit and a pair of open-toe, kitten-heeled mules. Elegant and feminine, these shoes reflected the post-war ideal of the poised housewife. Barbie’s original 1959 doll with peep-toe heels.🔗Credit: CNN 1980s: Power Heels for a Power Decade As Barbie stepped into the ‘80s, her shoes followed suit: neon stilettos, strappy pumps, and high-heeled boots — echoing the confidence of women rising in corporate and creative fields. 1980s Barbie career doll with pink heels.Credit: Amazon 1990s–2000s: Pop Princess Platforms The rise of Y2K fashion brought glitter boots and platform sandals. Barbie embraced the era’s maximalism — from jelly shoes to holographic wedges. Barbie 2001 Party Premiere Doll with glitter platforms.Credit: BarbiePedia 2010s: Enter the Flats and Sneakers As fashion leaned towards comfort, Barbie started wearing ballet flats, Converse-style sneakers, and even yoga feet — echoing real-world trends of practicality and self-expression. Barbie in sneakers from Barbie Style collection.Credit: Sole Retriever 2023–2025: The Era of Choice Modern Barbie now rocks everything from Crocs to combat boots. Her shoes reflect identity, sustainability, and personal comfort — much like her real-world counterparts. Barbie Fashionistas line with diverse footwear.Credit: YouLoveIt.com 👡 Why Barbie’s Shoes Matter Barbie’s footwear evolution mirrors women’s evolving roles and fashion priorities. Her journey from stilettos to sneakers reflects a global move toward authenticity, empowerment, and inclusivity. Conclusion:From pumps to platforms to practicality, Barbie’s shoes tell the story of changing times and changing tides. She may live in a Dreamhouse, but her wardrobe — especially her footwear — has both feet firmly planted in the real world.
Chelsea Flower Show 2025: A Fashionable Affair
The Chelsea Flower Show 2025 was not just a celebration of horticultural brilliance, but also a runway of floral fashion, garden glamour, and British elegance. Each year, this prestigious Royal Horticultural Society event attracts royals, celebrities, and fashionistas — and this year, the style stakes were higher than ever. 👑 Royals in Bloom Leading the fashion parade was Queen Camilla, who arrived in a custom floral-print dress by designer Fiona Clare, embodying the serenity and sophistication of an English garden in spring. Her look was a graceful nod to both tradition and trend. Adding to the royal presence, Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie made headlines for their coordinated ensembles. Beatrice stunned in a vibrant cobalt skirt embroidered with jasmine, while Eugenie chose a halterneck dress adorned with delicate blue florals. Their outfits perfectly captured the romantic spirit of the show. 🎀 Celebrity Style in Full Bloom From screen to soil, celebrities turned out in bold, beautiful looks. Alexa Chung turned heads in a £1,000 silky negligee-style mini dress layered with an oversized blazer — effortlessly mixing high fashion with garden-party chic. The look redefined floral femininity with a modern twist. Jerry Hall, always a vision of timeless glamour, channelled vintage Palm Beach vibes in a ruched green trench coat layered over a delicate floral frock. With nude suede heels and retro sunglasses, she brought old-school elegance to the contemporary floral fête. 🌿 Garden-Inspired Trends on Display Fashion this year was firmly rooted in garden-inspired minimalism, with these standout trends blooming across the showgrounds: Botanical Prints: Think delicate florals, oversized petals, and leaf motifs on everything from dresses to headscarves. Linen Layers: Lightweight trousers and sleeveless blazers in earthy tones kept things cool and chic. Pastel Power: Soft lavenders, buttery yellows, and rose pinks made up a palette as sweet as spring itself. Glamorous Utility: Chore jackets, straw totes, and suede boots brought rugged charm to refined looks. A wide shot of attendees lounging in the garden areas in soft pastels and linen co-ords.Source: Visit London 🐾 Stylish Companions Even the pets came dressed to impress. James Middleton, brother to the Princess of Wales, was spotted walking his dogs — all well-groomed and outfitted in colour-coordinated accessories, proving that garden style isn’t just for humans. 🌸 Fashion Meets Flora This year’s Chelsea Flower Show blurred the lines between floristry and fashion, with displays influencing style and style echoing nature. From eco-conscious designers to slow fashion statements, the show was a reminder that beauty can be both wearable and sustainable. As the world continues to embrace mindful fashion and botanical inspiration, the Chelsea Flower Show 2025 confirmed one truth: style is perennial, and fashion always finds a way to bloom.
Minimalist Chic: The Rise of “Snore-Core” in 2025
In 2025, the fashion world is embracing a trend that champions simplicity and understated elegance: Snore-Core. Despite its tongue-in-cheek name, this minimalist aesthetic is anything but boring. It focuses on neutral tones, clean lines, and high-quality fabrics, offering a timeless and versatile approach to dressing. What is Snore-Core? Snore-Core is characterized by its neutral palette—think creams, beiges, and khakis—and simple, unembellished silhouettes. Key pieces include loose-fitting trousers, ribbed tank tops, and oversized shirts. The emphasis is on comfort and functionality without sacrificing style. Why It’s Gaining Popularity The appeal of Snore-Core lies in its versatility and timelessness. In a world saturated with fast fashion and fleeting trends, this minimalist approach offers a refreshing alternative. It’s about investing in pieces that can be mixed and matched effortlessly, creating a cohesive wardrobe that stands the test of time. Image Source: Fashion Gone Rogue How to Embrace the Trend To incorporate Snore-Core into your wardrobe: Stick to a Neutral Palette: Opt for shades like white, beige, grey, and black. Choose Quality Over Quantity: Invest in well-made pieces that will last. Focus on Fit and Fabric: Look for garments with clean lines and comfortable fabrics. Keep Accessories Minimal: Select simple, understated accessories to complement your outfit. Final Thoughts Snore-Core is more than just a fashion trend; it’s a lifestyle choice that prioritizes simplicity, functionality, and elegance. By embracing this minimalist approach, you’re not only curating a timeless wardrobe but also making a conscious decision to value quality and sustainability in fashion.