My parents were... great role models, especially my mum – she was my best friend. My dad really helped push my career, to the extent of taking me to gigs in the back of his meat van.

It's been quite a week for top jobs in fashion. After six months of speculation, Hedi Slimane's appointment as Yves Saint Laurent's new designer, replacing Stefano Pilati, was announced during Paris Fashion Week.

Model: Alicia at Ford

From foxy florals to sexy sets, Emma Akbareian selects the underwear that's too good to hide

When Britain's women unwrap their Christmas presents on Sunday, there's a good chance they'll find some lingerie, judging by the latest sales from Ultimo.

A video showing military police viciously clubbing a woman, repeatedly kicking her head and then stamping on her semi-naked chest triggered a wave of outrage yesterday and threatening to further inflame three days of bloody clashes in the capital.

Ilike to think I'm impervious to faddish trends these days. I've been a goth, a Wag, a swot and a toff in my time, and I've settled at a stretchy waistband and warm coat sort of stage – yes, I follow fashion, but only if it's black and baggy.

Late for work this morning? Pressed snooze once too often? Not me. I was late because I was transfixed by the TV. Again.

Late for work this morning? Pressed snooze once too often? Not me. I was late because I was transfixed by the TV. Again. I've always hated morning telly – too much noise, too many colours, too early – but having been burgled twice, I put the TV on when I go to work to fox future thieves. But it's not the news, or poor old Daybreak, that's been distracting me from my commute.

Liverpool's would-be slebs may be dull, but a film on wealth creation exposes a truly odious world

The private equity owner of the troubled lingerie retailer La Senza has floated plans to close a number of under-performing shops in a bid to turn around its performance and slash costs.

What? The Queen's corsetière has been sold to the Belgians?