Wednesday 7 January

New year, new me?

Welcome to Lessons in Lifestyle...

Oh, January. We have such a toxic relationship. Why do you always bully me into improving myself, babe? It's one week in, and so far, I've stuck to my resolutions: I haven't reached for a Diet Coke can once (a huge win), I've been journaling lots (mindfulness!) and even attended a HIIT workout class (ignore the fact that I almost collapsed afterwards). Aren't I good enough for you yet, January? 

As everyone attempts to self-improve this month, take a step back and question whether that voice of self-reproach – you know, the one that periodically tells us we should be healthier, smarter, thinner and more productive – is worth listening to. This week, Lydia Spencer-Elliott looks into the most toxic resolution trend: the 2026 rebrand, which is gaining momentum online as a way to completely rewrite your identity. 

Elsewhere this week, Olivia Petter investigates whether the labels “girlfriend” and “boyfriend” are dying out in favour of a simple “partner” after Timothée Chalamet thanked his “partner of three years” in his passionate speech to Kylie Jenner at the Critics’ Choice Awards.

While it was a sweet moment, his choice of wording captured the internet’s attention. “In Hollywood, ‘partner’ is more serious than ‘girlfriend’,” speculated one fan. “It suggests equality, commitment, and walking through life together.” Others argued the opposite, believing “partner” to be a term of emotional distance. “He’s not gonna say Kylie’s name? Just thank you to ‘my partner’ lmao,” tweeted one person. Read the full piece here.

In this week’s newsletter, you can expect:

Until next time!

When her husband walked away just six months into marriage, Eve Simmons went looking for answers – and found that ‘blindsiding’ breakups are a familiar pattern for many millennial women

Do you agree with the '2026 rebrand' trend?

As we dive into January, thousands of influencers have proclaimed they're embarking on a 2o26 rebrand – AKA a complete rewriting of their identities, throwing out their clothes, makeup and overhauling their homes. But does the new year really signal the need to throw out our former selves? And crucially, could this trend be toxic?

Vote in our poll and share your views in the comments here.

Last week, we asked whether you thought French exiting a social event was necessary or rude, and 55 per cent of you agreed it was socially acceptable. Thanks for voting!

Kate Middleton’s go-to high street brand has up to 70% off