Hancocks London, the renowned independent British jeweller, is releasing its 2026 Engagement Trends Report, which reveals emerging styles, shifts in buyer behaviour, and what today’s luxury clients value most in rings.

London, December 2025

From vintage cuts to bespoke craftsmanship, the report highlights what couples are seeking in high-end engagement rings. Insights draw on sales data, bespoke commissions, and expert commentary from Guy Burton, Managing Director of Hancocks London. The report covers seven main areas:

Section 1: Emerging styles and cuts

• Vintage resurgence: Old Mine Cushion leads client requests; Asscher and Marquise cuts see a sharp rise in interest.
• Influence of celebrity culture: The “Taylor Effect” has driven demand for specific antique cuts by 30 per cent.
• Art Deco & Edwardian influence: Classic design styles remain popular for bespoke commissions, highlighting fine engraving and tri-wire bands.

2 Section 2: Design trends

• Preference for substantial, well-crafted rings over ultra-thin, delicate designs.
• Alternative settings: East-West designs gaining popularity.
• Coloured gemstones, particularly rare sapphires such as Padparadsha, are increasingly requested.

Section 3: Buyer behaviour & experience

• Couples increasingly value the in-person buying experience, often coming in together to explore rings before their engagement.
• Connoisseur-driven choices dominate: rare stones, antique diamonds with unique colours like cognac and champagne, and extraordinary craftsmanship.
• Sustainability and ethical sourcing are important, with antique diamonds and recycled materials highly valued.
• Men’s engagement rings are evolving: thicker bands and signet rings are popular.
• Upgrades and anniversary purchases are on the rise, particularly around 10-year milestones.

Section 4: Media influence and social trends

• Clients avoid mass-market Instagram designs; one-of-a-kind is now key.
• Hybrid shopping 24/7: research online, WhatsApp for direct communications, see in person, then purchase.
• Celebrity engagements, particularly Taylor Swift’s, influence high-end antique diamond demand globally, and is set to continue into 2026.

Section 5: British craftsmanship and market positioning

• Independent British jewellers are increasingly chosen over global luxury houses, especially by American buyers.

Section 6: Natural vs lab-grown diamonds

• Natural diamonds dominate luxury sector of the market.
• Lab-grown diamonds occupy entry-level, fashion-focused markets.
• Education on rarity, cut, and character remains crucial for discerning buyers.

Section 7: Value, investment, and craftsmanship

• Buyers seek rare, investment-worthy stones with enduring quality.
• Craftsmanship significantly influences long-term value retention.
• Certification: GIA remains the trusted standard; cut quality and character outweigh colour or clarity alone.

Global icon Celine Dion wears Robinson Pelham gold & diamond Tsar Star earrings

Celine Dion in Robinson Pelham Tsar Stars for Charlotte Tilbury’s Holiday Campaign

The greatest voice of all time partners with ‘The Queen of Glow’ Charlotte Tilbury to bring star confidence to everyone, everywhere this holiday season.

“When we first saw these images they took our breath away – she looks every bit as extraordinary as she is. We are honoured to be part of this remarkable campaign and to support Charlotte Tilbury, a fellow British brand we have long admired.”

Tsar Stars were launched by Robinson Pelham in 2017 and previously captured the headlines when HRH The Princess of Wales wore them during the London premiere of “Top Gun: Maverick” in May 2022.

The Tsar Star collection, crafted in 14-carat white or yellow gold, showcases Robinson Pelham’s flair for playful versatility. Designed to be worn three ways, the star stud on its own for a hint of sparkle; paired with the diamond star drop to the front for added brilliance; or styled with the drop behind the ear to create a modern, unexpected twist. With their constellation-like sparkle and a nod to the night sky, the design channels celestial magic, making them perfect for everyday wear as they are for evening glamour.

Tsar Stars were launched by Robinson Pelham in 2017 and previously captured the headlines when HRH The Princess of Wales wore them during the London premiere of “Top Gun: Maverick” in May 2022.

The Tsar Star collection, crafted in 14-carat white or yellow gold, showcases Robinson Pelham’s flair for playful versatility. Designed to be worn three ways, the star stud on its own for a hint of sparkle; paired with the diamond star drop to the front for added brilliance; or styled with the drop behind the ear to create a modern, unexpected twist. With their constellation-like sparkle and a nod to the night sky, the design channels celestial magic, making them perfect for everyday wear as they are for evening glamour.

Q&A with Creative Director Vanessa Chilton

3. How long did it take for you to get the design right? Were there any technical challenges in crafting them?

The length of the detachable drop was crucial. Too short and it doesn’t make an impact, too long and some people are intimidated. The length needed to be a universal “one size fits all” while still providing the wow factor. We designed several prototypes, found the sweet spot, and tested them – like we do with all our pieces – by having the team wear them to see how they felt and moved in real life. This is critical, as the section where the earring slides onto the post of the stud is articulated so that the earrings can swing freely. If not articulated, the earrings would be too rigid when worn.

5. What kind of woman did you have in mind when designing them?

The beauty of the Tsar Star collection lies in its versatility. Worn as a stud, the star’s clean, architectural lines feel modern and effortless, taking you seamlessly from day to night. With the addition of the drop, it transforms, adding a sense of power, boldness, and energy, into a true statement jewel. Designed to flatter every face shape, Tsar Stars radiate a striking elegance that feels both refined and contemporary.

6. They are becoming an iconic piece given they have been worn by HRH The Princess of Wales and others. How did you feel when you saw them being worn at the Top Gun: Maverick premiere?

It was a big moment for us seeing Robinson Pelham Tsar Stars on such a style icon. She looked incredible.

7. Celine Dion is the latest icon to wear Tsar Stars in the new Charlotte Tilbury holiday campaign. Discuss.

This is one of Robinson Pelham’s iconic moments for this year for sure. It’s a wonderful coming together of Charlotte Tilbury and Robinson Pelham – two British brands spearheaded by women.

Seeing the pictures for the first time was a ‘wow’ moment. In fact, the whole team were blown away…….we should have videoed their reactions! Don’t you think they look perfect on her? They are so Celine Dion and work so well with the campaign which is incredible. We also think it’s refreshing that Celine Dion and the talented styling team are supporting independent jewellers.

9. What’s next for Tsar Stars?

This October, we will be relaunching the pink sapphire Tsar Stars in support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month . This year, we are proud to partner with both The Pink Foundation and the Breast Cancer Research Foundation – charities close to our hearts. For us, it’s about more than jewellery, it’s about celebrating strength, raising awareness, and supporting their invaluable work.

For more information, visit @RobinsonPelham on Instagram and www.robinsonpelham.com

Based on the multi-million bestselling novel and global phenomenon written by Barbara Taylor Bradford, first look images of the iconic character Emma Harte have been released for A Woman of Substance, a brand-new adaptation of the classic novel. Previously Emmy-nominated and Channel 4’s biggest ever drama when it was made 40 years ago, this new revenge romp feels as searingly relevant today as it did back then.

Coming to Channel 4 next year, the images feature Brenda Blethyn and Jessica Reynolds as the two versions of Emma Harte; a housemaid turned-mogul, daughter, mother, lover, fighter and a 20th century feminist icon who refused to know her ‘place’.

1911. Emma Harte, an impoverished ambitious maid in Yorkshire, England goes on a dizzying journey to become the world’s richest woman, gazing down from a sprawling luxury New York penthouse. A rags-to-riches tale of women through the 20th century, Emma defies the expectations of her society, fearlessly challenging the roles she’s given, smashing glass ceilings, and never, ever deviating from her masterplan: Get to the top. Whatever it takes.

Produced by The Forge Entertainment (National Treasure, The Buccaneers, Marriage), a Banijay UK company, the eight-part series is written by Katherine Jakeways and co-written by Roanne Bardsley. A Woman of Substance will be distributed internationally by Banijay Rights.

A Woman of Substance was commissioned for Channel 4 by Rebecca Holdsworth, Commissioning Editor and Gwawr Lloyd, Acting Head of Drama. Executive producers are

Beth Willis, Joe Innes, George Faber, Katherine Jakeways and The Barbara Taylor Bradford Trust. Roanne Bardsley is co-executive producer, and Charlie Palmer is the producer. John Hardwick directs block one, Samantha Harries for block two and Richard Senior for block three.

Filming took place in Yorkshire and transmission details will be announced in due course.

London, September 2025 – Robinson Pelham is proud to celebrate a decade of its iconic Identity collection, a modern design classic that has become a firm favourite among celebrities, stylists and clients around the world.

Since its debut in 2015, Identity has been worn by style icons including Goop entrepreneur Gwyneth Paltrow, actress Jodie Comer and broadcaster Jo Whiley.  Now a permanent part of Robinson Pelham’s collection, Identity expresses the jeweller’s bold yet refined aesthetic.

The contemporary chain-link design is universally flattering and endlessly versatile as its  inter-changeable connector links allow wearers to personalise their look – making Identity as individual as its name suggests.

Available in 9ct and 18ct gold, the collection remains in high demand. While there is often a waitlist, most customer requests are fulfilled within eight weeks.

The necklace featuring new Pommel connectors was showcased at COUTURE 2025 in Las Vegas this summer and won The Editors’ Choice Award where it was praised by editors at Vogue, The New York Times, Forbes and Oprah magazine for its exceptional craftsmanship and creative vision.

Q&A with Creative Director Vanessa Chilton

When did you first conceive the Identity collection?

The first design was sketched in 2014, two years after we opened our flagship store in Chelsea, London. We struck gold, literally and figuratively, with our first prototype. It looked beautiful, felt incredible to wear, and moved with the wearer in an elegant, effortless way.

We always wanted to create a statement gold necklace that still offered versatility, which is very much at the heart of Robinson Pelham’s design DNA, and Identity hits the spot.

Why do you think Identity has become so iconic?

Its bold yet elegant design has a timeless quality that resonates with clients.  It’s a modern heirloom.  Things really took off when Gwyneth Paltrow was spotted wearing it; she loved it so much she requested to stock it online and in GOOP stores, which was a huge moment for us.

How has the collection’s appeal widened?

Following the introduction of Identity in 9ct and 18ct white gold, we noticed increasing interest from men. The necklace and bracelet designs began to resonate with a male audience, particularly because of the customisable lengths. It has  opened an exciting new market for us.

For more information, visit @RobinsonPelham on Instagram and www.robinsonpelham.com

Hancocks London unveils the engagement edit’, a mini digital series exploring the art, heritage and individuality of choosing an engagement ring

London, June 2025 —Hancocks London, the British jeweller renowned worldwide for its exceptional collection of engagement rings featuring antique diamonds and coloured gemstones, is launching The Engagement Edit — a new digital film series created in collaboration with style expert Sarah Harris.

The curated five-part series, available online offers an elegant and insightful journey into the craftsmanship and rarity of antique diamonds and coloured gemstones, while exploring the key factors to consider when choosing a ring that symbolises life’s most significant commitment.

Hancocks London is launching The Engagement Edit to help demystify the engagement ring process and address some of the questions they are most frequently asked. The films feature Managing Director Guy Burton — a leading authority on old cut diamonds and antique gemstones — in conversation with Sarah Harris, whose insightful questions bring a modern editorial perspective to each episode.

Celebrating best of British craftsmanship and design

Collaborating closely with British interior designers Barlow & Barlow and architects Arke, the new gallery space effortlessly merges heritage with contemporary flair. Drawing inspiration from quintessential British design elements, the interiors are elegant and opulent, capturing a timeless allure with a sense of sophistication. Original features including fireplaces have been retained wherever possible.

In keeping with its commitment to sustainability, Hancocks has worked with teams of master craftsmen, used mainly British-made materials, and incorporated a significant number of antique and recycled furniture into the design.

The Engagement Edit

Episode 1. The Importance of Cut

This first film sees Guy Burton discussing the distinct beauty of antique diamonds — from old mine cushions to step cuts and antique pear shapes. It explores the 4Cs and discusses which ‘C’ is the most crucial when it comes to buying a diamond. Plus, Sarah Harris tries on several of the 450 one-of-a-kind rings from Hancocks London’s collection.

Episode 2. Old Cut Diamonds

This episode explores the captivating allure of old cut diamonds and what distinguishes these vintage gems from their modern counterparts. The conversation delves into the sustainable appeal of antique diamonds and why more couples are drawn to their unique charm.

Episode 3. Craftsmanship

What elevates a ring from beautiful to exceptional? This film delves into the artistry behind Hancocks London’s one-of-a-kind designs. From Georgian Revival settings to signature intricate hand engraving, it reveals how fine gemstone curation and masterful craftsmanship come together.

Episode 4. Colour. Style. Individuality

From Fancy Vivid yellow diamonds to the rich romance of Kashmir sapphires and old Colombian emeralds, this episode explores coloured gemstones with Guy Burton providing advice on how to choose a stone that not only reflects personal style but suits your lifestyle. Along the way, viewers gain an understanding of what defines a truly exceptional gemstone and sourcing the very best of the best.

Episode 5. Beyond The Ring

An engagement ring is one of the most meaningful — and significant — purchases someone can make. This final film explores what truly matters when making that decision: provenance, personal curation, and the importance of trusted certification. From sourcing rare gemstones to designing a ring that tells a story, it’s a look at the expertise behind every Hancocks London creation — and why buying from specialists makes all the difference.

The Engagement Edit will be available to view via Hancocks London’s website here: CLICK HERE

The finishing touches for the proudest of moments:
Robinson Pelham unveils its Mother Of The Bride Edit:

London, UK – May 2025: As weddings evolve into multi-day celebrations with diverse fashion moments, the role of the mother of the bride has never been more prominent—or more stylish. Recognising the shift, British fine jeweller Robinson Pelham introduces its Mother of the Bride Edit.

The Mother of the Bride Edit, curated by Vanessa Chilton, Creative Director of the Chelsea based jeweller, brings together a collection of signature pieces designed to elevate and express personal style. From earrings that frame the face with sculptural elegance, to necklaces that sit effortlessly against silk or tailored cuts, and bracelets that introduce subtle texture and movement — each piece has been meticulously crafted to complement the woman wearing it.

Designed to inspire the mother of the bride, the edit features pieces that are timeless, individual, and distinctly Robinson Pelham.

“The role of the mother of the bride has evolved; today it’s less about blending in and more about expressing personal style with quiet confidence. Our edit is aimed at women who understand the power of detail — jewellery that enhances, never overpowers, and that holds its relevance long after the confetti has settled,” says Vanessa Chilton, Creative Director, Robinson Pelham.

The finishing touches for the proudest of moments.
The Mother of the Bride Edit is arranged into earrings, necklaces and bracelets — versatile pieces designed to complement every part of the celebration, from the rehearsal dinner to the ceremony and the many celebrations that follow. It offers effortless ways to refine and complete a look, ensuring the mother of the bride feels both confident and perfectly herself throughout the occasion.

EARRINGS

Mother of the brides are moving away from classic diamonds studs, instead opting for contemporary designs, mixed metals, and subtle pieces. Robinson Pelham signature pieces such as the Daystar earrings in Rock Crystal & Diamond, available in both yellow and white gold, and the Tsar Star earrings — designed to transition seamlessly from day to night — are excellent choices.

For those seeking a touch of whimsy, the Fruits of Love heart-shaped earrings in yellow gold offer a playful yet elegant option, while diamond Disco Sisters are the perfect contemporary hoop.

NECKLACES

Strings of pearls are out and necklaces that add a symbolic touch or a modern statement are in, elevating every look with meaning and refinement. Robinson Pelham’s Identity necklace, featuring interchangeable personalised bars and pavé hearts, offering a stylish and meaningful way to celebrate the connection between mother and daughter on what will be one of their most memorable days.

Robinson Pelham’s North Star and Atlas Torque necklaces bring a subtle yet unmistakable impact, meticulously crafted to sit effortlessly against silks, tailored cuts, or an elegant neckline.

BRACELETS

Avoid jewellery that distracts with unnecessary movement or sound on the big day. Instead, choose a single statement piece such as Robinson Pelham’s River bracelet with diamond link, or for those who prefer to stack, the lightweight and versatile Atlas bracelets. Perfect choices which can be worn and enjoyed long after the wedding day.

Vanessa Chilton added: “A wedding day is layered with meaning, and jewellery carries stories that reflect both personal history and future memories. This Mother of the Bride Edit recognises the women who have shaped the bride’s journey. These are jewels to wear with pride, to treasure beyond the ceremony and celebration, and to continue the story for years to come.”

For more information, visit @RobinsonPelham on Instagram and www.robinsonpelham.com

Filming has commenced in Yorkshire on a brand-new adaptation of A Woman of Substance for Channel 4, starring Brenda Blethyn (Vera, Pride and Prejudice) as Emma Harte and Jessica Reynolds (Kneecap & The Wolf, The Fox & The Leopard) as the younger version of the iconic character, a housemaid-turned-mogul, daughter, mother, lover, fighter and a 20th century feminist icon who refused to know her ‘place’.

Produced by The Forge Entertainment (National Treasure, The Buccaneers, Marriage), a Banijay UK company, the eight-part series is written by Katherine Jakeways (The Buccaneers) and co-written by Roanne Bardsley (The Buccaneers, Screw).

Joining the ensemble cast are Emmett J Scanlan (Kin, Mobland) as Adam Fairley, Lydia Leonard (The Mirror and The Light, Gentleman Jack) as Olivia Wainwright, Leanne Best (This City Is Ours, Line of Duty) as Adele Fairley, Ewan Horrocks (The Last Kingdom, Domina) as Edwin Fairley, Harry Cadby (In Flight, Everything Now) as Gerald Fairley, Will Mellor (Mr Bates vs the Post Office, Line of Duty) as Jack Harte, BAFTA-winning Lenny Rush (Am I Being Unreasonable, Doctor Who) as Frank Harte, Niall Wright (Hope Street, Slow Horses) as Mac, Robert Wilfort (Gavin and Stacey, Wolf Hall) as Murgatroyd, Toby Regbo (Belgravia, A Discovery of Witches) as Jim Fairley, Hiftu Quasem (The Witcher, Ten Percent) as Priya Chandra, Sophie Bould (Call The Midwife, Sex Education) as Elizabeth Harte and Georgina Sadler (Silo, Boarders) as Polly.

1911. Emma Harte, an impoverished ambitious maid in Yorkshire, England goes on a dizzying journey to become the world’s richest woman, gazing down from a sprawling luxury New York

penthouse. A rags-to-riches tale of women through the 20th century, Emma defies the expectations of her society, fearlessly challenging the roles she’s given, smashing glass ceilings, and never, ever deviating from her masterplan: Get to the top. Whatever it takes.

Previously Emmy-nominated and Channel 4’s biggest ever drama when it was made 40 years ago, this new revenge romp is a re-imagining of the multi-million bestselling novel and global phenomenon written by Barbara Taylor Bradford, which feels just as searingly relevant today as it did back then.

Brenda Blethyn says: “I’m overjoyed to be taking on this iconic role, in the footsteps of the great Deborah Kerr. As a fan of Barbara Taylor Bradford, it is an unmissable opportunity to play the fierce Emma Harte.”

Jessica Reynolds says: “To be a part of A Woman of Substance and to step into the shoes of Emma is an absolute dream for me. The team and cast we have behind this are truly inspiring and I’m so excited to bring the stunning scripts and this great piece of literature to the screen.”

Rebecca Holdsworth, Commissioning Editor, Drama at Channel 4 adds: “Attracting an ensemble cast of this quality is testament to Katherine and Roanne’s exceptional scripts. We are so excited to be bringing this fresh, sexy and bold adaptation of an iconic book to Channel 4.”

An 8×60’ drama series by The Forge Entertainment, Beth Willis, Joe Innes, George Faber and Katherine Jakeways are the executive producers alongside Barbara Taylor Bradford. Roanne Bardsley is co-executive Producer. Charlie Palmer (Extraordinary, Agatha Raisin) is producer and John Hardwick (The Buccaneers, One Day, The A Word) will direct block one.

A Woman of Substance has been commissioned for Channel 4 by Ollie Madden, Director of Film4 and Channel 4 Drama and Rebecca Holdsworth, Commissioning Editor, Drama. A Woman of Substance will be distributed internationally by Banijay Rights.

Transmission details will be announced in due course.

Doyle Auctioneers & Appraisers is thrilled to hold an auction of The Collection of Barbara Taylor Bradford OBE, the trailblazing British writer and journalist who first captured the world’s attention in 1979 with A Woman of Substance, a sweeping saga of ambition and resilience, which remains one of the best-selling novels of all time. Lots are now live on Doyle’s website.

The nearly 200 lots in this sale tell Barbara Taylor Bradford’s own story—including her favourite typewriter, paintings of her beloved dogs, select pieces of jewellery and rare first editions of her own works, as well as some received from British Prime Ministers—tracing her journey from a Yorkshire newsroom to international literary acclaim. The items will tour Doyle’s galleries in Palm Beach and Beverly Hills before being displayed for public exhibition at Doyle New York beginning May 3, noon-5pm. A live auction will be held there on Wednesday, May 7, and will also be available for online bidding and via telephone.

During her life, Barbara Taylor Bradford wrote 40 novels, selling over 92 million copies worldwide. Her contributions to literature and journalism earned her numerous accolades on both sides of the Atlantic, including an OBE from Queen Elizabeth II for services to literature and The Lifetime Platinum Bestseller

Award from Nieslen, an award only given to a very small number of authors who have achieved lifetime sales of over five million copies in the UK. She was also the first ambassador for Women in Journalism and received honorary doctorates from five universities. Ten of Barbara’s novels have been adapted into successful television miniseries, including the Emmy-nominated A Woman of Substance. Now, 40 years after it first aired, the story is being adapted once again for a new global TV audience.

Notable lots include a selection of Barbara Taylor Bradford’s jewellery, together with first edition copies of A Woman of Substance. Other auction highlights include items that highlight the cultural landscape she inhabited, such as signed first copies of Paul Robeson and Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher’s memoirs and two signed photographs of Sir Anthony Hopkins, an actor who starred in Barbara Taylor Bradford’s To Be The Best miniseries. The sale also features some of the entertaining and dinner services she and Bob would often use for the dinner parties she was fêted for hosting, many of which counted upon the highest ranks of the literary and political intelligentsia as guests.

“This collection reflects a life of elegance, intellect, and artistry, offering a glimpse into the world of one of the most successful writers of our time,” said Doyle’s Executive Director of Books, Autographs & Photographs, Peter Costanzo. “Author memorabilia has consistently attracted significant interest at auctions, reflecting a deep appreciation for literary figures and their works. The provenance and historical significance of such items often drive their desirability and value in the auction market.”

A lifelong devotee of the arts, Bradford’s life was as glamorous as the women in her novels. She met royalty and was friends with presidents and Prime Ministers, musicians, film directors, and stars from the stage and screen. Married for 55 years to Robert Bradford, a celebrated film and television producer, she remained immersed in storytelling across mediums. The couple enjoyed holidays in France, Geneva, Capri, and in the Caribbean islands, and they amassed a collection of art, jewellery, porcelain, Art Deco and Biedermeier furniture, silverware, first edition books, and Winston Churchill memorabilia. A select numberof pieces are now being offered in this auction for the very first time.

Randy Jones, Co-Trustee of The Barbara Taylor Bradford Trust, says of the sale, “The pieces in this auction offer a rare glimpse into Barbara Taylor Bradford’s remarkable life—one defined by elegance, ambition, and an unyielding dedication to storytelling. Each item reflects not only her impeccable taste but also the extraordinary journey she shared with her beloved husband, Bob. This collection is a tribute to her enduring legacy, inviting admirers and collectors alike to own a part of her world.”

About Doyle Auctioneers & Appraisers. Founded in 1962, Doyle is one of the world’s foremost auctioneers and appraisers of jewelry, art, furniture, decorations, Asian works of art, coins, stamps, rare books and other categories. Headquartered in New York City, Doyle offers auctions throughout the year that attract a broad base of buyers and consignors from around the world. Doyle operates a network of regional galleries and advisors across the nation, including Palm Beach, Beverly Hills, Charleston, Boston, Washington DC, Chicago, Connecticut, Long Island, New Jersey, Pennsylvania and North Carolina. For information, visit Doyle.com.

About Barbara Taylor Bradford OBE. Barbara Taylor Bradford OBE was born and raised in England. She left school at 15 for the typing pool at the Yorkshire Evening Post, England. At 16, she became a reporter on the paper and, at 18, its first Woman’s Editor. At the age of 20, she moved to London and became a columnist and editor on Fleet Street. Barbara wrote 40 novels, all of which became international bestsellers. 92 million copies of Barbara Taylor Bradford’s books have been sold to date. They are published in over 40 languages and in more than 90 countries. Described as the “grand dame of blockbusters” and “Queen of the genre,” Barbara’s incredible success made her one of the most successful writers in the world. Ten of her books have been produced as TV films or drama series by Robert Bradford, starring actors including Liam Neeson, Sir Anthony Hopkins, Jenny Seagrove, Deborah Kerr, Sir John Mills, Lindsay Wagner and Elizabeth Hurley. A brand-new TV adaptation of A Woman of Substance is currently in production with Channel 4. For more information, please click this link.

Channel 4 announces brand new drama adaptation of Barbara Taylor Bradford’s A Woman of Substance

12 February 2025: Channel 4 announces a brand new adaptation of A Woman of Substance, produced by The Forge Entertainment (National Treasure, Help, Generation Z), a Banijay UK company and written by Katherine Jakeways (The Buccaneers) and co-written by Roanne Bardsley (The Buccaneers, Screw).

Both Emmy-nominated and Channel 4’s biggest ever drama when it was made 40 years ago, this new eight-part revenge romp is a re-imagining of the multi-million bestselling novel and global phenomenon written by Barbara Taylor Bradford, which feels just as searingly relevant today as it did back then.

Katherine Jakeways, showrunner and writer, says: “I was a child in the ’80s, when A Woman of Substance was on every bookstand, every glass-topped coffee table and hidden, well-thumbed, under every pillow.  The original Channel 4 adaptation was packed full of rolling Yorkshire hills, hairspray, shoulder pads and heaving bosoms and I desperately wanted in.  So, it’s an incredible thrill for me to be bringing this blockbusting, epic saga of ambition, lust and revenge back to exactly where it belongs… Channel 4.  And, we hope, doing justice to those twin feminist icons: the unstoppable Emma Harte and the original, inspirational Woman of Substance herself… Barbara Taylor Bradford.”

Ollie Madden, Director of Film4 and Channel 4 Drama, adds: “Emma Harte’s superpower is weaponizing the degree to which men underestimate her. Watching her do that through the decades, experiencing her epic journey from housemaid to mogul, promises to be as thrillingly entertaining as it is fiercely relevant. We couldn’t be more excited to bring Barbara Taylor Bradford’s classic creation to life again via the brilliance of Katherine Jakeways and Roanne Bardsley’s sparkling scripts, alongside our trusted partners at The Forge.”

Beth Willis, Executive Producer at The Forge, says: “Katherine’s delicious, funny and observant writing is a joy to read – and in her and Roanne Bardsley’s brilliant hands Emma Harte is as fabulous as ever. A Woman of Substance is an all-you-can-eat-banquet of drama for contemporary audiences who – like Emma Harte – want it all.’”

An 8×60” drama series by The Forge Entertainment, Beth Willis, Joe Innes and Katherine Jakeways are the executive producers. Roanne Bardsley is Co-Executive Producer.  Charlie Palmer (Extraordinary, Agatha Raisin) is producer and John Hardwick (The Buccaneers, One Day, The A Word) will direct.

Vicki Downey, Trustee of The Barbara Taylor Bradford Trust, says: “It was always Barbara’s dream to see A Woman of Substance reimagined, as this book – along with her 39 others – features compelling plot lines, which are perfect for television drama. In many ways, A Woman of Substance was one of the first female empowerment novels, portraying a woman driven not by love or the pursuit of it, but by her determination to gain power, protect and provide for others, and, above all, to succeed. It is a classic of its genre.”

Casting and transmission details will be announced in due course.

Jo Hansford salons introduce The French face lift haircut & new advanced treatment to remove calcium build up and repair hair

13 February 2025: Jo Hansford Mayfair and Jo Hansford Harvey Nichols salons are bringing a Parisian touch to British hairdressing with the introduction of Visagisme – the French Face Lift haircut. This innovative technique, designed to elevate volume and sculpt the face, is a natural way to add lift without going under the knife. 

Visagisme is based on the principle of creating a hairstyle with the unique structure of each face. Unlike traditional cutting methods that focus on sectioning, the French approach builds the cut differently—creating connections rather than divisions to add lift and movement.

The French Face Lift haircut is tailored to suit every face shape, with an immediate lifting effect on the cheekbones and overall facial structure. Zacharie Jardin explains:  “It’s particularly beneficial for those in mid-life whose hair may feel like curtains, dragging the face down, which can make women look drained.  It’s also a wonderful for those experiencing thinning hair, as this method counteracts loss of volume by strategically shaping and elevating the hair.”

The transformative effect can be further enhanced with expert colour application. As Bridget Kearney, Senior Colourist at Jo Hansford Harvey Nichols, explains: “Our new French Face Lift haircut can be taken to the next level with carefully placed colour such as lights or balayage, adding even more dimension, differentiation and radiance to the face.”

The French Face Lift haircut starts from £190 and colour appointment starts from £130 at Jo Hansford salons.

Click on the following Instagram link to see Zacharie Jordan explaining the French Face Lift haircut: CLICK HERE

Further information can be found on the Jo Hansford website HERE.

The Kérastase Première treatment consists of a four-step layering process which works by freeing the hair from this buildup, restoring its natural strength, elasticity and shine. This includes citric acid, an organic acid that acts from core to surface, to neutralise dullness and stiffness. Once excess calcium is removed, Glycine, an amino acid, penetrates hair’s inner layer to help deeply repair. As a result, this helps reconnect broken links between keratin chains, helping to reduce breakage. The treatment lasts for 30 minutes.  Price £80.00, available in both Jo Hansford Mayfair and Jo Hansford Harvey Nichols.