When Sotheby’s revealed that it had purchased the Whitney Museum’s Breuer building on Madison Avenue earlier this year,

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Regular daytime naps could be good for brain health, new research suggests. Daytime napping could slow the rate at which brains shrink as we age, the study led by researchers at UCL and the University of the Republic in Uruguay found. The researchers hope their findings into the health benefits of sleeping during the day will reduce any stigma that still exists around daytime napping. The study suggests the average difference in brain volume between people programmed to be habitual nappers and those who were not was equivalent to 2.6 to 6.5 years of ageing. Our findings suggest that, for some people, short daytime naps may be a part of the puzzle that could help preserve the health of the brain as we get older Dr Victoria Garfield, UCL Senior author Dr Victoria Garfield, MRC Unit for Lifelong Health & Ageing at UCL, said: “Our findings suggest that, for some people, short daytime naps may be a part of the puzzle that could help preserve the health of the brain as we get older.” The study, published in the journal Sleep Health, analysed data from people aged 40 to 69. Past research has suggested people who have had a short nap perform better in cognitive tests in the hours afterwards than those who did not nap. The new study looked at whether there was a causal relationship between daytime napping and brain health. Researchers looked at 97 snippets of DNA thought to determine people’s likelihood of habitual napping. They compared measures of brain health and cognition of people who are more genetically programmed to nap with people who did not have these changes in DNA, using data from 378,932 people from the UK Biobank study. They found that, overall, people predetermined to nap had a larger total brain volume. The genetic variants – DNA changes – influencing the likelihood of someone to nap were identified in an earlier study looking at data from 452,633 UK Biobank participants. But the researchers did not find a difference in how well those programmed to be habitual nappers performed on three other measures of brain health and cognitive function. Lead author and PhD candidate Valentina Paz, University of the Republic (Uruguay) and MRC Unit for Lifelong Health and Ageing at UCL, said: “This is the first study to attempt to untangle the causal relationship between habitual daytime napping and cognitive and structural brain outcomes. “By looking at genes set at birth, Mendelian randomisation avoids confounding factors occurring throughout life that may influence associations between napping and health outcomes. “Our study points to a causal link between habitual napping and larger total brain volume.” Dr Garfield added: “I hope studies such as this one showing the health benefits of short naps can help to reduce any stigma that still exists around daytime napping.” Read More Dramatic rise in the number of women freezing their eggs Paramedics who found ‘poisoned’ couple dead in Mexico hotel room also fell ill Bruce Willis’ family honours him with first Father’s Day tributes since announcing his dementia diagnosis Richard Ford on Frank Bascombe, getting older and literary feuds: ‘At my age I can’t get into fistfights’ Families’ ‘disappointment’ as Croydon tram disaster driver cleared

Gareth Wyn Jones, star of BBC series The Family Farm, has launched a search for a butcher who will help him hunt and prepare grey squirrels to be used in burgers. The farmer, 56, plans to serve up the invasive squirrel as part of the menu at his pop-up restaurant in the forthcoming Welsh Game Fair at the Faenol Estate, near Bangor, in September. Jones launched an appeal to help him source grey squirrels and is encouraging visitors to the fair to think of the non-native rodent as “any other wild food” when they tuck into his burgers. The pop-up will mark Jones’ first time running a restaurant. The farmer, who farms near Llanfairfechan in the foothills of the Carneddau Range, said: “Grey squirrels are not native to this country. They were introduced from America and they have led to the decline of our own red squirrel population. “Squirrel meat is like any other wild food, eating them is like foraging for anything else. We have to remember they are a pest. On the farm if I have too many rats, crows or whatever, I have to deal with them.” He added: “What’s the difference with squirrels? Their meat is a by-product so why waste it? It’s a fantastic wild food. “All I need now is an alternative butcher to supply the grey squirrels and it’ll be ready, steady, cook.” Grey squirrels from North America were introduced in the UK in the 1800s and are a major threat to native red squirrel populations. They outcompete the red squirrels for food and space, as they are prolific breeders. Grey squirrels also carry a virus called squirrelpox, which they are actually immune to, but can spread the disease to red squirrels, therefore decimating the local populations. The Woodland Trust describes the introduction of grey squirrels in the UK as having had a “disastrous impact” on red squirrels, which are the UK’s only native squirrel species. Red squirrels are a legally protected species. It is illegal to intentionally kill, injure or disturb them. Jones, who has more than a million followers across his social media channels combined, said the best way to “change things” is to eat “food that’s been produced here”, including game like grey squirrel. James Gower, chief executive of Stable Events, the organiser of the Welsh Game Fair, said: “Our aim is to celebrate everything that is best about the countryside and rural pursuits, including the wider benefits of conservation and field sports. “The pop up restaurant will provide a real showcase for the finest fare the countryside has to offer,” he added. “I can’t think of a better mine host than Gareth Wyn Jones who is passionate about promoting proper local produce – and has great likeability. “The idea of putting squirrel burgers on the menu is inspired because it means we can find a good use for a real rural pest and tantalise people’s tastebuds at the same time.” Read More Men sometimes need help – and I’m determined to start asking for it ‘Oblivious’ woman defended after walking through beach wedding: ‘They don’t own the beach’ King’s Guard shares sweet exchange with young boy wearing royal uniform

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Hi it’s Lisa Fleisher, your luxury correspondent in the Middle East. I decided last-minute to book a flight

We’ve all been there. A friend’s wedding is three days away and you don’t have anything to wear. The last thing you want to do is drag yourself around high-street shops, so it inevitably you turn to ASOS. After all, the company is known for its next day delivery and simple free returns service. Though many of us are reliant on the online fast fashion retailer for last-minute holiday purchases or big seasonal shops, a new report shows that ASOS’s pre-tax losses ballooned to almost £300m in the year to 3 September, compared with £31m the previous year, according to the results published on Wednesday (1 November). Despite its huge popularity, the once undisputed queen of online retailers now faces stiff competition from abroad, challenging economic headwinds, and a maturing clientele potentially seeking a more tailored experience. Leading some to ask, is ASOS in SOS? When ASOS was launched in 2000, the online retailer was considered revolutionary. It was like a supersize department store at your fingertips and became the first online retailer that UK customers could visit and find hundreds of dresses for £30 all in one place. But, in recent years, the company has been cutting its stock as it faces severe profit and revenue losses. In July and August, the retailer said it was hit by wet during the summer months, forcing the retailer to cut its stock by 30 per cent. Some experts now say that the holes within ASOS’s business model are becoming apparent. Rick Smith, Managing Director of business recovery firm Forbes Burton tells The Independent that ASOS’s business model of allowing large numbers of free returns makes the company susceptible to financial losses during challenging economic conditions. “The buying culture within their target demographic sees several items returned for each order placed, which can make for slim profit margins,” Smith explains. “ASOS has enjoyed a stratospheric rise since their inception, but have perhaps reached their ceiling now and need to cut their cloth accordingly, especially given the amount of economic headwinds [such as as the cost of living crisis] in play at the moment.” The buying habits of consumers have also shifted in the 23 years since ASOS launched. Smith says that sifting through hundreds of products has become a painstaking and often unenjoyable task for its customers. “Once large online retailers get to a certain size, it can become laborious for customers to scour their whole catalogue,” Smith explains. “The online fashion landscape is evolving now to a point that customers are looking for a more tailored service from websites.” With the rise of shopping on social media, too, young people are increasingly buying individual items from retailers on Instagram and TikTok or instead shopping directly from the brands that ASOS stocks, such as Pull and Bear, Stüssy and Bershka, which all have their own websites. “ASOS’s busy 20-something [target] market doesn’t necessarily have the time to sift through dozens of item pages,” adds Smith. “So curated collections and recommendations based on user input may be one of the changes they eventually look at.” ASOS, which originally stood for As Seen On Screen, initially started trading with the tagline “Buy what you see on film and TV” as it exclusively sold imitations of clothing worn by celebrities. That business model quickly expanded away from the world of replica products: ASOS now offers 850 affordable to mid-range high-street brands and ships to 196 countries. But the company is also now tackling a debt issue, with net debt including leases now at £648.5m, up from £533m the year before. Analysts predict that the online fashion site may need to raise quick cash soon – potentially through the rumoured sale of its Topshop brand, which ASOS acquired when the Arcadia Group went bust in 2021 and closed Topshop’s bricks and mortar stores. Despite the profit slump and predicted future losses, José Antonio Ramos Calamonte, ASOS’s chief executive, said in the report that the company has made “good progress” in “a very challenging environment” and would continue to invest in its brand and stock more fashionable lines of clothing. The company plans to spend £30m more on marketing and said it was going “back to fashion” with its products “geared around fashion and excitement”. As ASOS faces huge losses, it was reported this week that the Chinese-founded retailer Shein has acquired UK company Missguided, with plans to “reignite” the online retailer that was only bought out of administration by Mike Ashley’s Frasers Group a year and a half ago. Despite calls for boycotts from anti-fashion campaigners, Shein is currently valued at around £53bn, having expanded globally and bought many of its rival brands. In 2022, it was the most-googled fashion brand in the world and made a reported £18.9bn in revenue, suggesting that fast fashion is not falling out of favour with consumers who want to find entire outfits on a budget. Read More The funniest and most unique celebrity Halloween costumes of 2023 Kim Kardashian’s ‘power-nipple’ bra isn’t empowering – it’s the stuff of nightmares It’s ‘Phoebe Philo’ day – here’s why fashion fans are so excited The funniest and most unique celebrity Halloween costumes of 2023 Kim Kardashian’s ‘power-nipple’ bra isn’t empowering – it’s the stuff of nightmares It’s ‘Phoebe Philo’ day – here’s why fashion fans are so excited

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The biggest menswear trend of the moment is about putting an easygoing spin on the classic suit. “Casual tailoring is a fashion movement that has accelerated over the last few years,” says Martin Roberts, head of buying at Jacamo. “Dress codes have become much more relaxed and comfort has become a key priority in menswear. “As a result, men are moving away from formal etiquette and instead adding some style and versatility to their suits.” From catwalks to red carpets, the ‘suited and booted’ look is increasingly being replaced by the ‘blazer and trainers’ combo. “We’ve seen prominent fashion designers embracing the trend, incorporating lightweight fabrics, earthy tones and refined silhouettes,” says Victor Nyamdavaa, tailoring specialist at Hawes and Curtis. “Along with the countless red carpet appearances from A-list celebrities dressed in relaxed linen suits, it’s clear that casual tailoring is revolutionising the way we perceive sartorial styling.” While some events still call for a formal dress code, casual tailoring is supremely versatile. “A matching two-piece will always look dapper and can suit every occasion, whether it be a trip to the office or a weekend wedding,” says Roberts. “However, comfort dressing is the new power dressing, and smart shirts are now being replaced with tees, polos and knitted sweaters, as working and social environments become more accommodating to a casual attire.” And it’s simple to work into your wardrobe, Nyamdavaa says: “By incorporating tailored pieces such as linen jackets, polos, and linen trousers into your summer outfits, you can embrace the casual tailoring trend and exude sophistication with ease.” Style and simplicity “The best way to approach the trend is by keeping it simple and suave,” says Roberts. “Mixing up the style and colour of your suit layers will make the vibe feel more laid-back and add some versatility to your outfit choice. This look is ideal for a celebratory event, such as a birthday party or anniversary.” But stay within the same colour palette and choose soft hues, he advises: “It’s important to find the perfect colour contrast, as too similar and the suit separate loses its touch, but too bold and it can look out of place.” Steer clear of jazzy prints, too, he adds: “For example, checkered trousers with a striped blazer will look displaced when put together.” Pastels have been a major part of the casual tailoring trend, with style icon Ryan Gosling rocking mint, baby pink and powder blue suits during the Barbie movie press tour. “If you’re looking for an outfit that shouts ‘laid-back cool’, combine a cotton polo shirt with linen trousers in a matching or contrasting hue,” says Nyamdavaa. “Accessorise with leather loafers to elevate the outfit while maintaining its easygoing charm.” If sugary shades aren’t for you, opt for natural tones like cream, caramel or light brown. Darker colours also work well for evening events in summer. Nyamdavaa continues: “You can create a sleek monochromatic look with a navy linen blazer, navy polo and navy linen trousers, creating a level of understated style while keeping you cool and comfortable wherever the season takes you.” Neutral and natural “People must also consider which fabric to wear based on the season – in summer, linen and cotton suit parts work well together,” says Roberts, while wool or tweed should be left in your winter wardrobe. Nyamdavaa agrees: “For an effortlessly chic aesthetic, opt for a tailored linen jacket in a neutral tone, paired with a classic polo shirt, completed with tailored linen trousers and suede loafers for a touch of sophistication.” As an alternative to a two-piece suit, mix and match separates. “A pair of suit trousers can be replaced with more comfortable and informal clothing, such as chinos and even jeans,” says Roberts. “For holiday goers who are planning a family meal out or couples who are heading to a wedding abroad, a chino and blazer pairing is the perfect summer look.” Here’s our pick of the coolest casual tailoring pieces on the high street… Jacamo Elliot Pink Brushed Flannel Suit Jacket, £75 (was £100); Elliot Pink Brushed Flannel Suit Trousers, £35 (were £50); Grey Marl Crew Neck Jumper, £22; Puma RBD Game Low Trainers, £48.75 (were £65) Hawes and Curtis Brown Linen Shirt Jacket, £179 (was £199); White Mercerised Cotton T-shirt, £29.50; Natural Herringbone Tailored Linen Trousers, £150; Light Brown Suede Leather Casual Loafers, £99 (were £129) Threadbare Luxe Men’s Stone Linen Blend Blazer, £75; Luxe Men’s Navy Linen Mix Drawstring Trousers, £30 Matalan Taylor & Wright Panama Black Tailored Fit Suit Jacket, £39; Lilac Essential Pull-On Hoodie, £15; Taylor & Wright Panama Black Tailored Fit Suit Trousers, £21; White Stripe Trainers, £17 Ted Baker Lancej Wool And Linen Blazer in Light Green, £206 (was £295); Lancet Slim Fit Wool Linen Trousers in Light Green, £105 (were £150) FatFace Light Teal Organic Cotton Pique Polo, £35 Peacocks Mens Tan Linen Blend Shirt, £12 (was £18)