The report also found that more women than men worry about their finances and more say they don’t understand complex financial products.

I’m always a bit suspicious about research that’s carried out by financial companies. All too often it concludes that we all need more of whatever it is that the company is selling. But I thought this one by the insurer Aviva was worth a second look. It found that it’s not the amount of money you earn or have that makes you happy but whether or not you feel in control of it. And what was particularly interesting was where women and men differed when it came to their finances. See what you think.

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Many women have no shortage of clothes, the problem is they’re not always the right ones. A radical wardrobe rethink can save you money and time.

By Gill Davies of Iris Personal Styling

Do you have a quality wardrobe or just a quantity of clothes? I use quality to describe not only the fabrics, tailoring and how long each item remains wearable but also the usefulness and personal enjoyment you get from wearing them. Many women I see get into the habit of accumulating clothes without an understanding of their own style and how to build a wardrobe. Building up a wardrobe that works for you doesn’t have to be complicated or costly – here are my tips to get you started:

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Last year credit card companies raised interest rates on over 6 million cards for existing customers and most maximise their profits by paying off the cheapest debt first.

If your credit card company has raised your interest rates or you’ve ever transferred your balance to a 0% card and not realised that card companies currently pay off the cheapest debt first, today’s announcement is good news. The government says it’s reached agreement with credit and store card providers that will give consumers better rights in five key areas. The changes won’t be introduced until later this year and the government is planning to legislate if card companies don’t stick to this voluntary code (although with an election around the corner, that part may not happen).

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