< Previous40 LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY Cool casual A new season of menswear has arrived. Lincolnshire Today looks at some effortlessly cool ensembles to don this Spring. LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY 41 FASHION Opposite: Barbour A lightweight option for Spring, this coat from Barbour provides a modern take on the traditional Chelsea quilted jacket. Top left: Fat Face Fat Face shows how easy it can be to incorporate a variety of colours into your outfit with this shorts, crew neck jumper and bomber jacket combination. Top right: The Nautical Company The Nautical Company takes a classic Breton style top, long hailed a fashion icon, and grounds it with a simple gilet, with a matching hat for extra style points. Above: Dune London These Oxford shoes from Dune London merge a smart shape with casual and sporty touches, offering an easy way to elevate your everyday outfits. 42 LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY HAIR & BEAUTY E xperimentation with colour is becoming more prevalent, with particular focus on soft blues, more vibrant reds, and the return of the smoky eye. For those less keen on colour, switching up your hairstyle with a new parting might be the ticket. Whatever you prefer, the experts are clear on one thing – there are less rules than ever before. Whilst minimalism remains a timeless staple, it’s now being juxtaposed with a more lavish, slightly dreamier aesthetic. This fusion of styles is captivating the imagination of many, encouraging them to explore different facets of their personality through makeup. Casting our minds back to the 2010s, the approach was considerably more formulaic with emphasis on precision (remember the strong contouring and “Instagram” brows). This approach fostered a sense of competition and judgment among enthusiasts, often discouraging experimentation. However, there’s been a notable shift towards A time associated with new beginnings; Spring is the perfect time for changing up your look. This season, we’re seeing an evolution of existing trends, particularly the “glazed doughnut” skin and minimalist makeup, to include more edge. embracing personal beauty journeys once again. People are reconnecting with their unique essence, recognizing that beauty is ultimately for oneself. Although trends and makeup “norms” undoubtedly still exist, creating a signature look is something to be celebrated today. With this in mind, let’s peruse some of the trends set to define Spring 2024. In 2023, the fashion world was awash with the vibrant allure of Barbiecore, with hot pink emerging as the defining colour. Although this trend continues to linger, it is evolving into a sophisticated deep red. This bold hue is set to maintain its prominence well past Spring, alongside a more classic sense of dress. Expect to see exciting upgrades in traditional red spaces like nails and lips, with short nails adorned in striking red shades and the classic red lip evolving into what’s been dubbed the “revenge lip”, typified by the Alice + Olivia show during New York Fashion Week, described as an indulgent, glossy pout. Eyes are also taking on a bold new look, with emphasis on dramatic eyeliner shades. Whether you’re a fan of the trending ‘mob wife’ aesthetic or not, there’s no denying that vamp is back with a vengeance. Picture contrast lip liners and lipstick with smudged and smoky eyes, and cool-toned cheeks contributing to an irresistibly sultry vibe, complemented by voluminous, tousled hair and layers of mascara. Embrace the darkness and let your makeup speak volumes with rich reds and browns that enhance your natural allure. Fresh, dewy skin is always a staple of springtime looks. Mermaid-core is making waves with its emphasis on luminous, hydrated skin and captivating eye makeup to appear as though you’ve just emerged from the sea. Dive into the trend with a literal interpretation using shades of blues, greens, and purples (pastel versions can be used for everyday) or opt for a more subtle nod with asymmetrical eyeshadows, perhaps using light blue and silver. From silvery tones to ‘60s-inspired A fresh new look for spring A time associated with new beginnings; Spring is the perfect time for changing up your look. This season, we’re seeing an evolution of existing trends, particularly the “glazed doughnut” skin and minimalist makeup, to include more edge. A fresh new look for spring LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY 43 HAIR & BEAUTY © stock.adobe.com/Pixel-Shot sleek hairstyles over the last few years, a crisp, clean part instantly elevates any look by adding a touch of sophistication and polish. Whether opting for a full- length wet look a-la Mermaid-core, or a sleek bun, a centre parting allows the style to flow with ease, creating a more cohesive impression. If you love an updo, embrace the trend of single strands which offer a simple yet high-fashion appeal while maintaining softness. This versatile style works wonders for hair longer than lip length, particularly when complemented by a middle part for a more structured appearance. Those with shorter hair can tuck most of their locks behind both ears and let a few strands frame the face. This Spring, we are seeing some old trends return or expand with a new vibrance. Embrace your old familiars without fear of looking outdated with the option to experiment with bolder colours. Whatever your preference, uniqueness is certainly on-trend. baby blues and bold cobalt hues, the options are as varied as the depths of the ocean. Mermaid-core translates to all areas of beauty. Hair trends channel a wet, editorial aesthetic, offering a sleek and sultry allure akin to a siren’s call. Whether you opt for a subtle sheen, or a high-gloss finish is up to you, but experts say you can take it as extreme as “dripping”. Why not try bedazzled barnacle nails, set on top of the already popular iridescent nail lacquer trend. In fact, chrome nails continue to reign supreme, with pearly pinks and whites remaining favourites. Give your manicure the “glazed doughnut” touch by finishing any colour with a thick iridescent topcoat to give that “wet gel” finish. If Mermaid-core feels a little overkill, there’s another way to emulate the dewy look. With the continued popularity of Regency dramas like Bridgerton, people are loving a pearlescent glow which evokes the elegance of 18th-century portraits. Think delicate pearl tones such as rose and peach, delicately dusted across the cheekbones and nose, exuding a sense of refinement and grace. Where Mermaid-core is trendy, soft femininity calls to the timeless elegance of a goddess-like glow from within. Soft femininity receives a modern update with diffused lips (achieve this by applying a stain to the centre of the lip and distributing outwards) and flushed cheeks, with the cutesy option to add whimsical details like freckles and moles. To achieve the coveted pearlescent glow, opt for a liquid highlighter in an iridescent shade (close to your skin tone), steering clear of gold, colour, or glitter. Gently dot onto the face, focusing on high points like the cheekbones, nose bridge, cupid’s bow, and collarbones for an angelic radiance that’s effortlessly chic. Turning to hair, amidst the ongoing debate over the perfect part placement, the recent New York Fashion Week has decreed that middle parts are most definitely in. With a heavy emphasis on 44 LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY HEALTH & FITNESS If medical professionals had to describe private healthcare, their choice words would be comfort, choice, and efficiency. Private healthcare refers to medical treatment dispensed by any clinician or facility outside of NHS control and offers a tailored experience for those who need swift access to consultations and treatments, whether through direct payment or comprehensive insurance coverage. As frustrations mount over NHS waiting lists and accessibility challenges, the allure of private healthcare grows stronger, promising a path to prompt and personalized care. Concerns over the future of the NHS are growing so investment in private options is increasingly prevalent in the UK. Beyond mere convenience, private healthcare opens doors to treatments unavailable within the NHS framework. Recent data from the Private Healthcare Information Network (PHIN) paints a vivid picture of this shift, revealing a staggering 39% upsurge in individuals opting to self-fund operations or diagnostic procedures at private hospitals last year. Accessing private healthcare is likely easier than you think. Whilst many patients gain access through a referral from their NHS GP, those looking to be seen immediately can pay for a private GP consultation to gain a referral. This option bypasses the traditional waiting times. Private hospitals and clinics will often welcome patients without a referral, although they may liaise with your GP before proceeding with treatment. Certain services like diagnostic scans or physiotherapy don’t typically require a GP referral, although this can vary per facility. When a referral is in play, GPs typically recommend a consultant from a directory maintained by most private healthcare facilities. You can usually access this yourself from a hospital website, based on location and specialty. Understanding how to get started, let’s explore the key benefits. Firstly, and for some, most importantly, is the speed at which access to treatment can be gained. NHS waiting times (depending on the nature of the case) are often over 18 weeks after a patient is referred. This is much longer than the organisation’s own targets. Non-emergency routine operations might find you tapping your toes for up to a year due to financial constraints. Whilst this varies from region to region, the NHS will rightly prioritise emergency cases, leaving almost 7.7 million people waiting for treatment. With greater resources, flexibility, and fewer patients vying for attention, private providers often orchestrate significantly shorter wait times. Private clinicians will also frequently offer virtual consultations, often at shorter notice than in person appointments. Not only does this accelerate the start of your treatment, but it’s also more convenient for you, and makes the best clinicians accessible, wherever they are based. 46 Á At a time when the NHS is struggling, more and more people are looking into the viability and costs of private healthcare. private healthcare The benefits of © stock.adobe.com/ Monkey Business46 LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY HEALTH & FITNESS Given the immense pressures on the NHS, it’s understandable that patients have concerns regarding the quality of their treatment. NHS staff will always strive for the best for their patients, but they often don’t have time to provide a caring bedside manner or go the extra mile in diagnosing minor issues. Private healthcare providers have the resources available to ease patient anxieties and investigate more benign health concerns. This isn’t the only extra comfort that going private can provide. Although both avenues promise top- notch medical assistance, private facilities tend to add a touch of luxury and convenience to the mix. Private inpatients can expect a plush private room, with optional en-suite upgrades, extended visiting hours, and vast, high quality menu offerings. Patients go private for the low wait times but stay for the comfort. In contrast, the NHS journey might lead you to a shared ward with communal facilities and stricter visiting hours. Plus, instead of the consultant in charge of your care, you might find yourself visited by a friendly staff member, given the significantly greater workload of NHS consultants. In the end, whether you opt for the posh pampering of private care or the communal camaraderie of the NHS, the choice ultimately lies in what makes you feel most at ease. One of the greatest appeals for private healthcare is the level of control you have over your treatment journey. For example, where NHS patients often contend with limited hospital choices and fixed appointment times, those opting for private healthcare enjoy a wealth of options. With private treatment, you have the freedom to select the hospital, treatment dates, and a convenient location, offering unparalleled flexibility. Moreover, the efficiency of private care is evident as referral requests and medical tests can be completed in under a week, a stark contrast to potential delays within the NHS system. When weighing your options, consider your priorities: if flexibility and choice are paramount, private healthcare may offer the tailored experience you seek. Further control can be seen in the treatments available to you. Financial constraints and red tape typically limit NHS offerings, whereas private healthcare often offers access to cutting-edge therapies and medications, ensuring patients have access to the latest advancements in medical science. Similarly, the claims process presents a contrasting experience. Within the NHS, patients typically navigate a bureaucratic labyrinth, enduring lengthy waiting lists after obtaining a referral. Conversely, the private process is streamlined. Patients simply secure a referral, contact their insurer, and upon authorization, the insurer settles the bill directly with the hospital or consultant. As for appointments, NHS patients may find themselves subject to multiple cancelled or rearranged appointments as funding and priorities fluctuate, whereas private healthcare offers the luxury of arranging appointments at a time and place that suits you. In essence, the choice between NHS and private healthcare often boils down to a balance between access and autonomy, with private options often providing a more tailored and efficient experience. If you are ready to seek private treatment, the easiest way to get started is by obtaining health insurance. Although there is always the option for self-pay or situational cover, health insurance is the most comprehensive and cheaper than self-pay options. For those making multiple claims, comprehensive cover is likely to result in huge savings. © stock.adobe.com/ KzenonESWT involves the use of a medical device to pass shockwaves through your skin towards an injured part of your body, encouraging responses bmbmfu;7ঞvv;|_-|1-m;m_-m1; the natural healing process. It is one of the few technologies that seem to work best when an injury has lasted over three months. Appearing to be able to jump start the healing process in chronic injuries, move them back to the acute phase of healing and improve the chance of recovery. 3 - 4 sessions are usually required, costing from £112.50 per session based on a 30 minute appointment. Your ESWT and any other physiotherapy or exercises required are included. In some cases, your insurance provider may cover the treatment cost. Before starting ESWT, you will need a full physiotherapy assessment, which is priced from £64. This is to ensure this is the most appropriate treatment for you. ESWT is a non-surgical procedure, treating conditions such as: y Achilles tendinopathy y Plantar fasciopathy (incl. heel spur) y Golfers elbow y Tennis elbow y Rotator cuff tendinopathy LQFOXGLQJFDOFLĆFDWLRQ y Patellar tendinopathy y Hamstring tendinopathy Did you know we offer Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT)? 28616 2693 MKT ADV / 01.2024 How do I book? Speak to any of our team who can assist you. Alternatively, you can call the department on 01522 574708, option 3. Lincoln Hospital, Nettleham Road, Lincoln, LN2 1QU48 LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY FOOD & DINING Warmer weather opens up more options for exotic foods, so why not get adventurous in the kitchen this month. Chicken Marbella Method * Season the chicken thighs and drumsticks with salt and black pepper. Place in a large bowl. * In a separate bowl, mix together the minced garlic, dried oregano, red wine vinegar and olive oil. Pour this mixture over the chicken pieces, making sure they are well coated. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes. For better flavour, cover and refrigerate for a few hours or overnight. * Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). * In a large ovenproof dish or roasting pan, arrange the chicken pieces in a single layer. * Scatter the prunes, green olives, black olives, capers, and bay leaves evenly around the chicken. * Drizzle the white wine over the chicken and fruit. Then sprinkle over the brown sugar. * Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes. * Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and has a nicely browned skin. * Remove the bay leaves before serving. * Garnish the Chicken Marbella with fresh chopped parsley. * Serve hot, and you can pair it with rice, couscous, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. Serves 6 Preparation time: 10 minutes (plus marinating) Cooking time: 1 hour Ingredients * 4 Chicken Thighs * 4 Chicken Drumsticks * Salt and black pepper, to taste * 4 cloves Garlic, minced * 2 tbsp Dried Oregano * 2 tbsp Red Wine Vinegar * 2 tbsp Olive Oil * 1/2 cup Pitted Prunes * 100g Pitted Green Olives * 100g Pitted Black Olives * 1 jar Opies Capers, drained * 2 Bay Leaves * 120ml White Wine * 2 tbsp Brown Sugar * 2 tbsp Fresh Parsley, chopped (for garnish) foodsLINCOLNSHIRE TODAY 49 To promote your services call Angie Cooper on 01472 310302 or email: a.cooper@blmgroup.co.uk Click’em Inn Swinhope, Nr Binbrook, Market Rasen, LN8 6BS Tel: 01472 398253 Web: www.clickem-inn.co.uk The Click’em Inn is a family-owned freehouse, established for over 30 years in its current incarnation. Steeped in history, the inn is open 6 days a week, Tuesday- Sunday, offering a wide choice of drinks, including six real ales available at any time, with a regularly changing selection of personally recommended guest ales. The Kitchen is open Tuesday-Sunday for evening dining, plus lunchtimes Friday-Sunday. The menu varies from day-to-day with the chef’s specials, alongside regular meals. Vegan Tacos with Pickle Salsa Ingredients: * 1 block of firm tofu * 200g walnuts * 1 tsp Onion Powder * 1 tsp Garlic Powder * 1/2 tsp Cumin * 1/2 tsp Smoked Paprika * 1 tsp Oregano * 1/4 tsp Cayenne Pepper * 1 tbsp Nutritional Yeast * 1 tbsp Olive Oil * 2 tbsps Dark Soy Sauce * 1 tbsp Maple Syrup * 2 tbsps Tomato Paste For the Pickle Salsa: * 1 jar Opies Mini Gherkins, drained * 1/2 red onion, chopped * Handful fresh coriander * 1 jalapeño pepper, finely chopped (adjust to taste) * Juice of 1 lime * Salt and pepper to taste To serve: * Soft Taco Shells * Avocado * Vegan Sour Cream Method * Preheat the oven to 180°C. * Use a rolling pin or a blender to break the walnuts into a fine crumb. Break the tofu into small pieces and add into a mixing bowl along with the walnuts. Add the rest of the taco in- gredients and mix well. Spread onto a lined baking tray and bake in the oven for 30 - 40 minutes until dark and crispy. * Place the salsa ingredients into a blender and pulse until you have a chunky salsa. * Serve with your favourite taco fillings! Serves 6-8 Preparation time: 10 minutes Cooking time: 40 minutes Allergens:Nuts, Soy Next >