The 10 types of friends every woman should have

Here are the 10 types of friends every woman should have in her life. (1) The Lifestyle Buddy You take your toddlers to the same playgroup, share a love of shopping and natter for hours about, well, everything in your lives.

Her likes and dislikes mirror yours and, if she suggests a restaurant, outfit or film, you know you’ll love it. When faced with a tough decision, you always ask yourself what she would do – if you have something to moan about, you know she’ll share your gripes.

If you’re lacking a lifestyle buddy in your life right now, they’re easy to meet – just keep an eye out at all your favourite places. (2) The Opposites Attract Friend “Some of the healthiest and most rewarding friendships we can have are with our opposite,” says Sally. “Often it’s someone who’s a lot older or younger than you are – an older friend can offer good advice, while a younger friend reminds you of a more fun-loving version of yourself. They’re usually the best person to bring a fresh perspective to our lives.” (3) The Mutual Appreciation Friend Everyone appreciates a compliment now and again, and there’s no better compliment than one from someone you admire. You love her taste, her style, her friends – in return, she loves yours.

She’s always the first to notice your new haircut and recent weight loss, and she’s the friend you drag to events when you want to make a good impression. (4) The Comfort Blanket Friend You’ve known her for ever and a day; through bad haircuts, bad break-ups and garish make-up. Your families are friends and, even if you drift apart from time to time, you know she’s there. Call her when you’re feeling stressed and overwhelmed by your job or your family to be transported instantly back to your childhood. If you’ve lost touch, don’t Facebook her, pick up the phone instead. (5) The Good Time Girlfriend Your other half might not entirely approve of her, but she’s guaranteed to help you forget all your troubles. Wild and extrovert, she gives you the confidence to let your hair down and let loose. She doesn’t shock easily and would never judge you. Call her when you fancy being footloose and fancy free and, if you haven’t met her yet, she’ll be the one in the middle of the dance floor. (6) The Not For Sharing Friend She’s not part of your usual crowd, but this friend shares aspects of your life that no-one else does and you like to keep her all to yourself. Like Susannah Constantine and Lulu who walk their dogs together, you share things with her that you just wouldn’t mention to your other friends – your love of gardening, DIY manuals and your crush on Bruce Forsyth. (7) The 9-5 Friend As Sadie Frost and Jemima French demonstrate, 9-5 friends are often the most important ones in your life. This friendship requires strong foundations and an even thicker skin. You’ll clash, console and commiserate together, and she’s heard you moan about mother, husband and boss alike. This friend helps you get through the darkest of work days, so if you don’t have one, keep an eye out for them by the coffee machine or photocopier. (8) The Through Thick And Thin Friend It feels like you’ve been friends forever (even if you haven’t) and they’re the strongest pillar in your support network. She knows the good, bad and ugly about you and hasn’t run a mile. People often comment how “like peas in a pod” you are and they’re right. Like Drew and Cameron or Matt and Ben, you’re definitely happiest in each other’s company. (9) The Three’s Not A Crowd Friend Who said three has to be a crowd? Sometimes it’s the perfect number. You get two friends for the price of one and, if your other half is willing, why not make it a couple of couples! (10) The Man-mate There are times when your girlfriends just don’t cut it and you need to look further afield. Man-mates are on the up with 18-24 year olds, being nearly four times as likely to have a friend of the opposite sex than people over 55. Man-mates give you a great insight into the male mentality and never mince words about your choice of outfit. If you don’t have one already, make finding a man-mate your mission of 2010.