Only the Lonely, by Julie Hayward

Loneliness ain’t sexy, it reeks of neediness and is something few would admit to, it’s different to being alone, you can be more lonely in a crawded room than spending time alone with yourself, if you don’t get the right ‘connection’ with another human being.
Thank goodness for coffee shops, they continue to breed like rabbits and there’s  one  alive and kicking on virtually every high street in the country. Somewhere for the lonely to go, the buzz of conversation, warmth and the sound of lattes being supped and snatches of human interaction.

Over Christmas everyone else seemed caught up with exciting plans that involved lots of family, friends, get togethers and parties, but for those that are alone it can be an isolating time of year.

Do I look like mutton dressed as lamb, or a style icon?

On a cheerier note, Brighton is a great place to live, at anytime of year but in the winter this seaside town develops another side, with Christmas markets, ice skating at the Pavilion, quirky, unique shops oozing out from the North Laine ideal for gift buying, the fabulous cafes and restuarants, ah, I could wax lyrical endlessly about the wonders of Brighton.

Fashion’s another example of how anything goes in this cosmopolitan town. As a woman of a certain age I have a debate with my mirror every morning – do I look like mutton dressed as lamb, or a style icon? Unfortunately, probably the latter but in Brighton it doesn’t matter.

In years gone by a middle aged woman generally dressed either like Margaret Thatcher with a helmet hair do and smart suit, favoured the casual look, Marks & Sparks, elasticated waisted crimplene slacks and a sweater. Ok I’m exaggerating slightly but you get the picture, but nowadays anything goes, all the generations seemed to have merged into one, at least fashion wise.