Aman has introduced a curated Vacation Edit that focuses on relaxed summer dressing and beauty, presenting new swimwear, beach accessories and skincare designed for unhurried warm-weather days. The collection includes Monogram Swim Shorts and Monogram Tailored Swim Shorts for men, along with Monogram Bikinis for women, all created to transition from secluded shores to poolside afternoons. Complementing the swim pieces are logo towelling caps and logo beach towels that extend the brand’s aesthetic to resort-ready accessories, encouraging a streamlined approach to packing for summer escapes. Aman is also spotlighting its Radiance Face Cream, a silky, deeply hydrating formula developed to replenish moisture and support the appearance of natural luminosity after time spent in the sun. The full seasonal range can be explored through Aman’s dedicated Vacation Edit online. By ML. Photo(s)/Aman

Versace has launched a new selection of men’s accessories presented as key elements to complete both formal and casual outfits. The range focuses on essential pieces designed to define an overall look and provide finishing touches suitable for different occasions. The accessories are now available in Versace boutiques and on versace.com for purchase. By ML. Photo(s)/Versace

Givenchy has introduced a new range of denim essentials as part of its Fall 2026 collection, expanding its ready-to-wear offering with updated silhouettes in classic denim. The collection highlights a structured trapeze jacket, an asymmetric denim skirt, and wide-leg jeans, designed to be worn as standalone pieces or coordinated looks across different occasions. The denim essentials are available in Givenchy boutiques and online at Givenchy.com for global customers. By ML. Photo(s)/Givenchy

Burberry has launched its latest summer campaign featuring actors Simone Ashley and Tom Blyth, showcasing a new selection of sun-ready styles and beachwear. The collection focuses on holiday swimwear designed for sun-soaked days and time spent by the water, offering sleek one-pieces and bikinis in the brand’s signature House Check. The range is intended to provide versatile options that can be worn for both relaxation and seaside activities. Customers can explore the full selection of swimwear online and refine their summer wardrobes with dedicated styles for women, men and children. The campaign is supported by Burberry services and in-store offerings, allowing shoppers to browse summer looks digitally or visit select boutiques for personalised assistance. By ML. Photo(s)/Burberry

Chanel is spotlighting its new Rouge Coco Hydra Gloss as part of a summer lip collection that emphasizes customizable levels of shine and color intensity. The range features Rouge Coco Hydra Gloss, Le Rouge Duo Ultra Tenue and Rouge Coco Flash, offering options that include mirror-like shine, lacquered finishes and sheer or intense color coverage. Chanel positions the trio as providing three levels of intensity for different preferences in lip makeup, encouraging customers to focus on luminous finishes throughout the summer season. More information about the collection is available on the Chanel website. By ML. Photo(s)/CHANEL

A new feature film about Italian fashion entrepreneur Brunello Cucinelli is opening in North American theaters on July 24, tracing how he developed a global luxury brand grounded in his philosophy of humanistic capitalism. Titled Brunello: The Gracious Visionary, the movie is directed by Cinema Paradiso filmmaker Giuseppe Tornatore and recounts how Cucinelli, who grew up in a working-class family, built his namesake fashion house while revitalizing the Umbrian hill town of Solomeo, where the company is based. Central to the narrative is Cucinelli’s long-held goal, formed after watching his father endure humiliating conditions in a factory job, to “live and work for human dignity.” The film explores the evolution of this idea into a business ethos that prioritizes respectful working environments, community investment and cultural life in Solomeo. The production also highlights the personal spaces and rituals that shaped Cucinelli’s worldview, including a local bar he describes as his “university of the soul” and frequent games of the traditional Italian card game scopa, which serve as recurring motifs in the story. By ML. Photo(s)/Sotheby's

Sotheby’s is promoting a new focus on watch restoration that emphasizes the personal stories and technical skill of its specialists. The initiative introduces audiences to the team responsible for restoring timepieces, underscoring how each project is treated as both a mechanical challenge and a personal commission tied to a client’s history and collection. The campaign is being distributed through Sotheby’s social media channels and supported by its mobile app for iOS and Android, which connects users to the company’s watch services and related content. More information on the broader services and programming is available on the Sotheby’s website. By ML. Photo(s)/Sotheby’s

For many people, celebrations and alcohol seem to go hand in hand. Whether it's a birthday, wedding, Christmas party or family gathering, drinking is often seen as a normal part of marking special occasions. However, more people are discovering that it's entirely possible to enjoy celebrations without relying on alcohol. Whether you're utilising the support network of alcohol rehab facilties or in recovery from alcohol dependence, taking a break from drinking or simply choosing to drink less, there are plenty of ways to have fun while creating meaningful memories. The focus of any celebration should be the people you're with and the occasion itself, not what's in your glass. With a little planning and the right mindset, alcohol-free celebrations can be just as enjoyable and memorable. Shift the Focus Away from Drinking One of the easiest ways to enjoy a celebration without alcohol is to focus on what the event is really about. Birthdays celebrate another year of life, weddings bring loved ones together, and festive gatherings offer the chance to reconnect with family and friends. Instead of viewing alcohol as the centrepiece of the occasion, concentrate on the conversations, entertainment, food and shared experiences. Taking photos, playing games or joining in activities can help create lasting memories that don't depend on drinking. Many people find they are more present and engaged when they're not focused on alcohol. Choose an Alcohol-Free Alternative You don't have to drink alcohol to enjoy having a special drink in your hand. The growing range of alcohol-free beers, wines, spirits and mocktails means there are now plenty of options available that feel just as celebratory. Choosing an alcohol-free alternative can also reduce questions from others, as many drinks look similar to their alcoholic counterparts. Sparkling water with fresh fruit, elderflower cordial or a carefully prepared mocktail can all make you feel part of the celebration without the effects of alcohol. Having a drink you genuinely enjoy can make social situations feel more relaxed and comfortable. Plan Ahead If you know alcohol will play a significant role at an event, spending a little time preparing can make a big difference. Think about how you'll respond if someone offers you a drink. A simple response such as, "I'm not drinking tonight, thanks," is usually enough. Most people will respect your decision without asking further questions. If you're in recovery, it may also help to identify someone supportive who will be attending or to arrange your own transport so you can leave if you begin to feel uncomfortable. Planning ahead can help you feel more confident and in control throughout the event. Remember Why You're Choosing Not to Drink There may be moments when you feel tempted, particularly if others around you are drinking. Reminding yourself of your reasons for cutting back or avoiding alcohol can help reinforce your decision. Perhaps you're prioritising your health, protecting your recovery, improving your mental wellbeing or simply wanting to feel fresh the next day. Keeping these reasons in mind can make it easier to stay committed, even when social pressure arises. The benefits of waking up clear-headed often outweigh the temporary appeal of another drink. Suggest Different Ways to Celebrate Not every celebration has to revolve around pubs or bars. If you're organising an event yourself, consider activities where alcohol isn't the main attraction. Ideas might include afternoon tea, a meal at a favourite restaurant, a picnic, bowling, escape rooms, live theatre, outdoor adventures or games nights with friends and family. These experiences encourage conversation, laughter and connection without placing alcohol at the centre of the occasion. As more people choose to reduce their drinking, alcohol-free social events are becoming increasingly popular. Celebrate with Confidence Choosing not to drink doesn't mean missing out. In fact, many people find they enjoy celebrations more when they remain clear-headed throughout the event. They're more likely to remember conversations, avoid embarrassing moments and wake up the following day without a hangover or regret. It's also worth remembering that you don't owe anyone an explanation for your decision. Whether you're in recovery, driving, focusing on your health or simply don't feel like drinking, your choice deserves to be respected. Ultimately, celebrations are about creating happy memories with the people who matter most. Alcohol isn't what makes an occasion special, it's the shared experiences, laughter and meaningful connections. By embracing new ways to celebrate, you can enjoy every event with confidence while protecting your health, wellbeing and, for those in recovery, the progress you've worked so hard to achieve. By ML staff. Images courtesy of Unsplash.

For many years, conversations about alcohol have largely focused on addiction and recovery. People who struggled with alcohol dependency were often encouraged to seek treatment, while those without an addiction rarely questioned their drinking habits. However, attitudes towards alcohol are changing. Increasingly, people are recognising that you don't have to have an addiction to reconsider your relationship with drinking. While addiction rates are high and many people are finding themselves in an alcohol withdrawal treatment centres, the shift of realising you don’t have to have an addiction has given rise to the "sober curious" movement, encouraging individuals to explore life with less alcohol - or none at all - simply because they want to feel healthier, happier or more in control. Understanding the Sober Curious Movement Being sober curious means choosing to question your relationship with alcohol rather than automatically drinking because it's expected or part of your routine. It doesn't necessarily mean giving up alcohol forever. Instead, it's about making conscious decisions about when, why and whether you drink. The term has become increasingly popular as more people seek healthier lifestyles and greater awareness of their physical and mental wellbeing. Rather than following strict rules, sober curiosity encourages mindfulness and personal choice. For some, this could mean taking part in initiatives such as Dry January or Sober October. For others, it may involve only drinking on special occasions or deciding that alcohol no longer adds value to their life. Why Are More People Becoming Sober Curious? There are many reasons why someone might choose to become sober curious. Improved physical health is one of the biggest motivators. Reducing alcohol consumption can lead to better sleep, increased energy levels, healthier skin and improved concentration. Mental wellbeing also plays an important role. While alcohol may initially seem relaxing, it can contribute to anxiety, low mood and disrupted sleep. Many people discover that drinking less helps them feel calmer, more productive and emotionally balanced. Financial savings are another benefit. Regular nights out, restaurant drinks and takeaway alcohol can quickly become expensive. Cutting back often leaves people with extra money to spend on hobbies, travel or other priorities. Is Being Sober Curious the Same as Being Sober? Not necessarily. Someone who is sober generally chooses not to drink alcohol at all, whether for personal, health, religious or recovery reasons. A sober curious person, however, may still drink occasionally. The key difference is intention. Rather than drinking automatically or due to social pressure, sober curious individuals make thoughtful decisions about alcohol. They might ask themselves whether they genuinely want a drink or whether they're simply following habit or expectation. For some people, sober curiosity eventually leads to complete sobriety. For others, it simply results in healthier drinking habits and greater awareness. The Benefits of Exploring an Alcohol-Free Lifestyle Many people are surprised by how quickly they notice positive changes after reducing their alcohol intake. Better quality sleep, improved fitness performance and clearer thinking are commonly reported benefits. Relationships can also improve. Spending time with friends and family without alcohol often encourages more meaningful conversations and memorable experiences. Many people also gain confidence in social situations as they learn they don't need alcohol to relax or enjoy themselves. Choosing alcohol-free alternatives has also become much easier, with pubs, restaurants and supermarkets now offering a wide range of low and no-alcohol drinks. Is the Sober Curious Lifestyle Right for Everyone? The sober curious approach isn't about judging those who drink or suggesting everyone should give up alcohol. Instead, it's an invitation to reflect on personal habits and decide what works best for your own wellbeing. However, it's important to recognise that sober curiosity is different from addressing alcohol addiction. If someone finds it difficult to control their drinking, experiences withdrawal symptoms or feels dependent on alcohol, professional support should be sought rather than relying solely on the sober curious approach. Ultimately, being sober curious is about making informed, intentional choices. Whether someone decides to stop drinking altogether or simply drinks less often, the movement encourages a healthier, more mindful relationship with alcohol and empowers people to prioritise their overall wellbeing. By ML staff. Images courtesy of Unsplash.

When people dream of a new home, they think big. They picture extra rooms for visiting family, a huge dining space for festivities, and a large master bedroom. It's a strong, life-filled visual, but is it practical in today’s real estate market? The quiet shift emerging in today’s market is real. In fact, data from the National Association of Home Builders reveals that the median space buyers want has dropped by 200 square feet compared to two decades ago. More buyers are beginning to realize that a home's value isn’t defined by its size. A new generation of buyers finds smaller homes more valuable than the bigger spaces they pictured. Modern Homeowner Trends vs. Traditional Build Sizes Data from the U.S. Census Bureau highlights this evolution in how Americans live. The average household size is now 2.51 people. Single professionals, young couples, and empty-nesters make up a larger share of the population than ever before. Yet the National Association of Home Builders estimates that the average size of a new single-family home hovers near 2,404 square feet. But the real question is, do families actually inhabit all the space they build? A well-known study by the Center on Everyday Lives of Families at UCLA tracked actual foot traffic in suburban households. The research revealed that families spend 68% of their indoor time clustered in just two areas: the kitchen and the family room. Formal dining spaces and grand entryways often sit quietly. When buyers realize that life naturally unfolds in cozy, shared spaces, their priorities shift toward comfort over large spaces. Smaller homes consistently spend less time on the market than big properties. They tap into the largest pool of buyers by offering entry-level affordability. First-time buyers, single professionals, and downsizing retirees - all prefer smaller homes. How Much Money Does a Smaller Home Actually Save? The numbers are significant. Housing costs take up roughly 33% of the average American family budget, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. A smaller home reduces that pressure at every level. A lower purchase price means a smaller loan and lower monthly payments. The U.S. Energy Information Administration reports that heating and cooling account for 50% of home energy use. A compact home needs far less energy to stay comfortable. Property taxes and insurance premiums also scale down with the size of the home. Buyers who want to save on homeownership costs can explore homes under 600k. This is a price range where smaller, well-located homes consistently deliver strong value. Lower Home Maintenance and Better Lifestyle Benefits A smaller home is easier to manage. A compact structure has fewer walls, a simpler roof surface, and straightforward mechanical systems. With less maintenance, less square footage to clean, and less yard to manage. According to the American Time Use Survey from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average adult dedicates hours each week to exterior property maintenance and yard work. A compact lot minimizes those chores, which gives you more free time. Instead of spending time cleaning indoors as well as taking care of the extra space, you get to save that time for things you actually like. Why Smaller Homes Hold Long-Term Resale Value Some buyers worry that a smaller property will limit their future resale options. However, modern market statistics reveal excellent long-term prospects. First-time buyers, single professionals, and downsizing retirees all compete for affordable small properties. Buying smaller doesn’t mean you’re buying worse. A well-maintained 1,800 square foot home can feel more spacious than a poorly laid out 2,800 square foot one. According to the National Association of Realtors' Generational Trends Report, buyer demographics actively pursue layout efficiency. That means a right-sized home isn't a compromise; it is an asset with a huge demand. This deep market appetite shows up clearly in the heavy traffic these listings pull on platforms like Houzeo. In fact, comparing Days on Market trends on Houzeo’s real estate market page consistently proves the point: smaller, efficiently designed homes frequently outpace sprawling properties in terms of selling speed. Designing a Life, Not Just a Floor Plan The old American real estate playbook says bigger is always better. But today's buyers are rewriting the rules. They’re trading the stress of big mortgages and extensive upkeep for flexibility. A home should support a lifestyle, not overwhelm it. Raw square footage does not automatically equate to a higher quality of life. Often, a smaller property provides the exact financial breathing room a household needs through lower mortgages and reduced utility bills. The market for smaller homes is very competitive. Platforms like Houzeo give buyers a distinct advantage by syndicating inventory directly from the MLS to their mobile app in real time. Modern buyers can filter through listings, compare sizes and layouts, and find a property that fits their budget and lifestyle. By ML Staff. Photos/Houzeo

Plastic surgery is a significant commitment financially, physically, and emotionally. And yet, many people walk into their first consultation without knowing what to actually ask. The consultation is your opportunity to find out what you actually need to know, and most patients don't use it nearly as well as they could. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, over 1.6 million cosmetic surgical procedures were performed in the U.S. in 2024, a 1% increase from the year before, with demand remaining strong despite economic uncertainty. For patients considering surgery, Scottsdale has earned a well-deserved reputation as a destination for high-caliber cosmetic care, home to board-certified surgeons who welcome informed, prepared patients and treat the consultation as seriously as the procedure itself. Why the Questions You Ask Before Surgery Matter Most people spend weeks researching procedures and minutes preparing for the consultation. The result is a conversation where the surgeon does most of the talking and the patient leaves reassured but not fully informed. A plastic surgery consultation is not a formality; it is the most important conversation you will have before someone operates on your face or body. The quality of the questions you ask directly shapes the quality of the decision you make. Patients who arrive prepared, ask honestly, and listen carefully to how a surgeon responds consistently make better choices and have better experiences than those who don't. Five Questions Worth Asking During Your Consultation A consultation isn't just about hearing what your surgeon recommends. It's your chance to evaluate their experience, communication style, and whether their approach aligns with your goals. The right questions can help you understand not only the procedure itself but also what to expect before, during, and after surgery. Here are five questions every patient should ask before making a decision. 1. How Is This Procedure the Best Option for My Goals? Not every cosmetic concern requires surgery, and a surgeon who jumps straight to the procedure you requested without exploring alternatives isn't giving you complete advice. The right question isn't just "can you do this procedure?" but "is this the best way to achieve what I actually want?" An experienced surgeon will consider the full picture before making a recommendation. Ask your surgeon whether: Another procedure might produce better or more proportionate results for your anatomy A non-surgical treatment like fillers, skin resurfacing, or injectables could achieve a similar outcome with less downtime Combining procedures would create a more balanced overall result Waiting or delaying surgery is advisable given your current health, lifestyle, or stage of life A surgeon who recommends what's genuinely appropriate for you rather than simply confirming the procedure you requested is one you can trust with the rest of the conversation. 2. How Will You Personalize the Procedure for My Anatomy? Successful plastic surgery is never one-size-fits-all. Your facial proportions, skin quality, bone structure, existing asymmetry, lifestyle, and long-term goals all influence how a procedure should be planned and executed. Ask your surgeon specifically how they intend to tailor the approach to your anatomy, not just what technique they use in general, but why that technique is the right choice for you in particular. Surgeons who take this question seriously, answer it in detail, and can show you comparable examples of patients with similar anatomy are the ones most likely to produce results that look natural, proportionate, and genuinely individual rather than templated. Patients consulting a plastic surgeon in Scottsdale benefit from choosing a practice that specializes and can customize the procedures they want, rather than a generalist setting where the procedure is offered among dozens of others. Shapiro Plastic Surgery focuses its practice specifically on aesthetic surgery, which means patients get depth of experience, not just breadth. 3. What Results Can I Realistically Expect? This is one of the most valuable discussions you can have before committing to any procedure. Unrealistic expectations are one of the leading drivers of post-operative dissatisfaction, not poor surgical outcomes. Patients who understood what was achievable going in are consistently more satisfied than those who didn't, even when the technical results are comparable. Your surgeon should walk you through what's possible, what isn't, and why. The conversation should cover: What improvements are achievable given your specific anatomy, not in general, but for your face or body specifically What limitations exist that may affect the result, skin quality, bone structure, degree of the concern being addressed How scarring is likely to heal and where incisions will sit How long results typically last and what may change over time What the final outcome is realistically likely to look like, supported by comparable before-and-after examples Understanding what's genuinely possible is what prevents disappointment later and sets the foundation for satisfaction with the outcome 4. What Will Recovery Actually Be Like? Recovery is the part of plastic surgery most patients underestimate and the part that has the biggest impact on their overall experience. Most pre-operative conversations focus on the procedure itself; recovery gets a paragraph in the consent paperwork and not much else. But knowing what recovery involves before surgery, not after, allows you to arrange support at home, protect time in your calendar, and approach the healing process with realistic expectations. Ask specifically about the expected swelling and bruising, pain management, activity restrictions, time away from work, sleeping positions, and when final results will become visible. A surgeon who gives you a detailed, honest recovery picture is one who respects your ability to prepare properly. 5. What Are the Possible Risks and How Are They Managed? Every surgical procedure carries potential risks, and an ethical surgeon will discuss them openly rather than minimizing them to close the booking. General risk information matters, but so does understanding which risks are specifically elevated for you, given your health history, anatomy, and lifestyle. Ask about the most common complications, any rare but serious risks specific to your procedure, how those risks are actively prevented, and what the protocol is if something unexpected occurs after surgery. A surgeon who is forthcoming about both benefits and risks and who answers these questions without deflection is demonstrating exactly the kind of transparency you want from someone who will be operating on you Why the Consultation Matters More Than You Think Most people treat the consultation as a formality, a step between deciding you want surgery and booking it. It isn't. The consultation is where the most important decisions get made: whether the surgeon is the right fit, whether your expectations align with what's actually achievable, and whether you're approaching the procedure for the right reasons. As this article outlines, it's also where you should be asking the five questions that separate a confident, informed patient from one who walks out reassured but not fully prepared. A surgeon who takes the consultation seriously and who explores your motivations, assesses your anatomy honestly, explains your personal risk profile, and gives you a realistic picture of recovery is showing you exactly the kind of care they'll bring to the procedure itself. Final Thought The best consultation isn't one that makes you feel good about a decision you've already made; it's one that genuinely informs it. Whether you're asking about alternatives, realistic outcomes, honest recovery timelines, personal risk, or how the procedure will be tailored to your anatomy, what you're really testing is something simpler: does this surgeon treat you as a patient or a booking? The ones who answer thoroughly, without deflection, are the ones whose work holds up. Walk into your consultation with these five questions ready. The answers will tell you everything you need to know. By ML Staff. Image generated by OpenAI.

Aman has broadened its wellness portfolio in partnership with tennis champion Novak Djokovic with the launch of two structured three-day programmes that focus on movement, recovery and detoxification at selected properties worldwide. The Mobility & Recovery Programme offers three days of guided movement and restorative therapies intended to support better physical function and post-exertion recovery as a base for long-term vitality. The programme is available at Amanzoe, Amanyara, Amanpuri, Aman Nai Lert Bangkok and Amanoi, where guests follow tailored schedules of exercise, bodywork and complementary practices. Aman has also introduced a three-day Detoxification Programme at Aman New York, Amanbagh and Amangiri. The programme is designed as a short reset for body and mind, combining nutrition plans, movement sessions and spa-based detox therapies to help guests establish more balanced daily habits. At Amangiri in Utah, the new wellness escape incorporates the detox and recovery approach into a three-night full board stay available until 31 December 2026, pairing the desert setting with movement, mindfulness and spa treatments. By ML. Photo(s)/Aman