Category: Women

Helly Hansen Solen Women’s Sports Tops

Birthday Gifts, Fashion, Fitness, Gifts for Her, hiking, National Walking Month, Sport, Spring, Summer, Women

Disclaimer – We have received this item for free or on a loan basis for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

As we ride into spring and take more time for outdoor pursuits (and it can’t come quick enough around here) a whole new wardrobe of outdoor clothes is needed. Helly Hansen’s Solen collection are base layers which can be worn on their own or as layers.  We were sent 3 tops to try out from the new range.

The Women’s Solen collection all have UPF (Ultra violet factor) 50 protection for the sun’s rays, plus it has moisture wicking. The fabric is stretchy too, so you can run, twist and bend without being constrained. The range is designed for trail running, hiking and outdoor pursuits in particular. I run at the weekends in all weathers, so some new, and very colourful tops were very welcome! The short-sleeved crew neck top (here in white) is great for summer as the fabric is really light. It isn’t particularly see through though, so you can still wear your sports bar underneath!

The long-sleeved crew necks are also light but because of the light fabric, these are better in spring or early mornings in summer. The long sleeves help protect against the sun. They’re just as durable as the short-sleeved shirt though, and there’s a great range of colours including the Barely Blue and Sunset Pink.  All of the tops in this range have the Helly Hansen HH design on the front and the raglan style sleeves that come right down to the wrists.

When out running in them, I hardly noticed them which is a good sign! There was no tightness across my chest or arms and the sizing was try – these are a size XL which roughly translates to a UK size 16.  When it came to washing, I was surprised at how well the white top was fresh still afterwards, and there was no staining. The pink and blue shirts were both washed on a 60 degree wash and neither of the colours ran with them either, which helps when you know you’ll be throwing these into the washing machine regularly.

There are lots of other accessories in the Solen collection at Helly Hansen as well as the usual staple outdoor kit they do all year round: https://www.hellyhansen.com/en_gb/women/base-layer/solen

Long sleeved women’s top £60: https://www.hellyhansen.com/en_gb/w-shine-solen-ls-crew-48189?color=634529

Short sleeve women’s top £50: https://www.hellyhansen.com/en_gb/w-shine-solen-tshirt-49577?color=291445

MYKI Bio-Cellulose Sheet Face Masks

beauty, Birthday Gifts, Gifts for Her, health, Stocking Fillers, Women

Disclaimer – We have received this item for free or on a loan basis for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

Korean skincare is all the rage now and MYKI Beauty have brought their Bio-Cellulose face masks to the UK along with some other beauty products such as LED light masks. We were sent a few masks to test this month, and I can tell you, testing beauty and skincare is one of the better perks of the job!

Each mask is folded with mesh each side to keep them hydrated in the packaging. The masks are designed to completely hydrate the skin when they’re worn for a period of time, which is recommended to be around 30 minutes but some people recommend that you keep them on your face longer, or until they dry out. The masks work by hydrating the skin and allowing the LED light masks to work better, reducing fine lines and cooling your skin. 

I put this on whilst I was in the bath to take advantage of the steam as well as to be able to relax.  The only downside was that the mask was huge and it doesn’t seem to come in different sizes. I had to cut the top of the lip and around the eyes a bit because it didn’t lie flat on my face for long enough without having to keep pressure on it to be able to stick.  Once I knew where to cut the mask to make it lie flat, that was all I needed. 

I left the mask on for about 35 minutes. It didn’t dry out completely and that was with getting out of the bath too. When I took off the mask, my skin was hydrated and I could feel that the products had had a chance to work because my face felt more hydrated. I could see in the mirror that the mask had left my skin hydrated and shiny, but not looking like plastic. Going to bed, the hydrating lasted until the next morning but the shininess wore off within about 12 hours. The mask is great for relaxing and giving you your hydration back, and if you’re going out one night and want to do the full pamper and glam, MYKI’s Bio-Cellulose Sheet Face Masks have you covered.

Available from £16.95: https://mykibeauty.com/product/bio-cellulose-sheet-mask/

SMUG

beauty, Birthday Gifts, camping, Christmas, Easter, Gifts for Her, Mother's Day, Stocking Fillers, travel, Women

Disclaimer: We received these products free of charge for the purpose of this review, but all thoughts and opinions are our own.

The Easter holidays are in full swing, and whether you’re hopping on a plane, train or jumping into the car one thing’s for sure… we all want to look and feel our best when we’re away.

I always hate sleeping in a strange bed, different pillows, unfamiliar noises, a lumpy mattress they all affect my sleep. So when a parcel from SMUG landed on my doorstep, I thought these could be a game changer for my Easter travels. And honestly? They really are.

Cloud Padded Satin Sleep Mask (RRP £20)

This sleep mask blocks out every bit of light, feels unbelievably soft, and crucially… stays put all night. It’s nicely padded and being made of satin is great for your skin. The gently curved shape sits nicely on my face and it really seems to help prevent sleep creases. There’s lots of different designs to choose from, so you can pick one that matches your pyjamas. It also comes in a little pouch, making it perfect to pop in your hand luggage. An essential for your Easter getaway? Definitely

Satin Sleep Turban (RRP £15)

If you have curls, this is the sleep aid you didn’t know you needed! Say goodbye to the pineapple bun that never quite survives the night. This satin turban keeps your hair smooth, protected, and hydrated while you sleep. When I wake up, I no longer look like I’ve had my fingers in a socket and my normal mop of frizz is history. The turban is comfortable and stays on all night, whether you’re in a hotel, on a plane, or in a friend’s spare room. It can be washed, ideally by hand but it can be put in the washing machine  on a delicate 30 °C cycle and I’d advise popping it in a mesh bag to protect it.

Soft Satin Pillowcases (RRP £15)

Now, we’ve all heard about the benefits of silk pillowcases, but they can be eye-wateringly expensive. These give you that same luxe feel without the splurge, which is great. They’re brilliant for both skin and hair and I’ve found since I started using them that my skin stays hydrated, and my hair is less likely to turn into a mop of frizz overnight.

The pillowcases were a good fit on my pillow, well-fitting but loose enough to easily take on and off.  They wash well on a delicate 30 °C wash and I’ve been drying them outdoors which helps reduce creasing.

With a good choice of colours and designs you should easily find one to match your bedding. I’m going to be taking one away with me this Easter as they’re easy to pack, and will instantly make any bed feel a bit more like home.

Bamboo Scalp Massager (RRP £12)

Small and easy to hold, this scalp massager fits nicely in my hand and gives a gentle, soothing massage that helps boost circulation to help keep my scalp in good condition. I have been using it in the shower to work conditioner through my hair and I’ve noticed an immediate improvement in how well my hair is conditioned over the comb I normally use and it moisturises my hair without pulling the curls. The rubber nubs give a really good massage and exfoliate my scalp, removing dry flakes and reducing itchiness.

Crafted from high quality bamboo it comes with its own bag, so it’s perfect for popping into your suitcase when you’re travelling.

Pillow Mist & Shower Mist Set (RRP £24)

Mornings now start with the shower mist, which wake me up gently with gorgeous essential oil vibes, perfect when you’re dragging yourself out of bed on holiday. Then in the evening, a quick spritz of the pillow mist transforms even the most basic hotel room into a calm, cosy sleep haven.

All these SMUG products are ideal for Easter getaways when your routine is all over the place and will help you reset, relax, and actually switch off.

Helly Hansen Women’s Aden Insulated Coat

Autumn, Birthday Gifts, camping, Days Out, Family Life, Fitness, Gifts for Her, hiking, National Walking Month, Women

Disclaimer: We received this product free of charge for the purpose of this review and all thoughts and opinions are our own.

As the days grow longer and we step into Spring there is still quite a nip in the air so it’s not quite time to hang up the coat just yet.  The Helly Hansen Aden Insulated Coat is the  perfect choice for this in-between season as it is warm without being bulky, and and it’s waterproof, which is always a very good thing, particularly if you live in the North West where rain is less of an occasional inconvenience and more of a recurring theme!

As I’m 6ft tall with long arms, finding a coat that fits properly is often a challenge, and I frequently end up buying men’s coats just to get the sleeve and body length I need. Buying online can be risky but I found Helly Hansen’s online size guide really helpful. By  entering your measurements it recommends the best size and suggested Large for me, which fits well, although next time I would probably size up to allow for a thicker jumper underneath, as it does feel a bit snug with one on. The cost is a good length, covering my bottom nicely, so on someone shorter it would likely sit around mid-thigh. The adjustable hood is a good size and stayed firmly on my head even on a blustery coastal walk.

The coat features HELLY TECH® Protection, meaning it’s waterproof, windproof and breathable, along with PrimaLoft® insulation which makes a real difference on those colder spring days. Despite not being overly padded, it feels surprisingly warm and cosy. There are two zipped hand pockets and a generous inside zipped pocket that easily fits my phone, which is always useful for keeping it dry in wet weather.

The coat can be washed at 30° and it is recommended that it is tumble dried on a low heat to reactive the water repellent treatment.

Overall, I really like the Helly Hansen Aden Insulated Coat. It’s comfortable, practical, and has been doing a brilliant job of keeping out the wind and rain in the unpredictable Spring weather that we’ve been exposed to over the last few weeks. With its tailored fit and waterproof protection, it’s a great choice for walking or everyday wear.

Available in a choice of four different colours, (Black Grape, White, Black and Navy) it is priced at £150.

Contouring Glow Wand from Scented Aromas

beauty, Birthday Gifts, Christmas, eco friendly, Gifts for Her, secret santa, Stocking Fillers, travel, Vegan, Women

Disclaimer – We have received this item for free or on a loan basis for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

Here’s a treat for you! The Contouring Glow Wand from Scented Aromas combines both Gua Sha and ice therapy to give your face a glow-up like never before. What’s Gua Sha I hear you ask? And what is ice therapy?  Gua Sha is a technique used to push the lymphatic fluid around the body, and in this case the face, to drain out through the lymph nodes and leave skin’s appearance smoother and less swollen-looking. Gua Sha also brightens up the skin by increasing blood flow, which along with the ice therapy also relieves headaches and tightens open pores.

The Contouring Glow Wand is made of silicone and comes in two parts. To use, you fill the inside of the wand up to 80% with water then pop it in the freezer to freeze solid. When it’s solid, it’s ready to use at any time of day but can be used anytime depending on the need. The wand defrosts slowly giving you enough time to use it and then return it to the freezer. Of course, you can let it defrost too, in case you need to store it, or travel.

How do you use it though? The frozen wand combines ice therapy with Gua Sha to give all the benefits. Examples of Gua Sha massage can be found on Instagram or YouTube but the principle is to massage away the stress, lines, underlying toxins and relax the muscles of your face by applying pressure across the contours of your face. This can be in the direction of the muscle, away from the face and into the lymphatic nodes or simply through the scalp if it’s a headache you’re trying to stave off.  With time, you find more techniques, but I already carry out a lymphatic drain on my face every morning before LED red light therapy. I used the Contouring Glow Wand to massage under my eyes by applying medium pressure from the nose, out to the temples and down to the lymph nodes under the ears. I also used it across my forehead, from the middle of my face out to the edges to reduce puffiness.  

How did it feel? It’s freezing at first and in warmer weather it melts a little bit too! The sharpness of the ice takes a while to get used to and probably speeds up the Gua Sha at first but once you get used to it, it’s both cooling and soothing. I’m sure the ice cold helps with inflammation too, as well as the benefits of brightening skin and reducing redness.

I would recommend taking this on holiday with you in case of sunburn or to reduce redness from hot climates. As it’s so cooling it’s great for children too, where they can play with it safely to cool down. Most hotel rooms have fridge freezers or ice machines which will allow you to keep the Contouring Glow Wand frozen in your room and handy at all times. It lasts for as long as the ice asks, so you can just fill it up again and start over as early as a few hours later.

I think this is a really good tool as well as a good gift for someone who loves beauty and especially beauty gadgets. It’s non-toxic plus it doesn’t interfere with any aesthetics such as botox or surgery.  

Available from £13.99 at: https://www.scentedaromas.uk/products/2-in-1-ice-therapy-gua-sha-contouring-glow-wand-hot-pink

Luxuriant Haircare for Hair Loss Prevention

beauty, Gifts for Her, Gifts for Him, Women

Disclaimer – We have received this item for free or on a loan basis for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

There are so many different haircare products on the market now, but there also so many different needs for better haircare than what we used growing up. Luxuriant Haircare specialises in hair loss prevention in both men and women. We were sent a Women’s Bundle to try for a few weeks to see how it works. The Women’s Bundle comprises of a shampoo, conditioner and serum. The serum is not for the condition of the hair like other serums, but for the scalp to prevent hair loss.

I don’t have hair loss but I do have hair that has been thinning with age, and it bothers me.  Over the past 2 years I’ve been trying to work on my lymphatic drainage, scalp massage and not damaging my hair too much.  In combination, I am trying to use products like Luxuriant to help stimulate hair growth and strengthen my hair. It takes a while, and I find that your hair needs to grow for the changes to be completely noticeable.

Luxuriant explain on their website that it takes just a few weeks for changes to be seen. I’ve been using the Luxuriant shampoo and conditioner for 10 days, which isn’t long enough to see the real results which typically take 10-12 weeks or up to 6 months for your hair to grow to a length that others can notice. What I can tell you is that the sulphate-free, natural extracts of ginger root, Indian gooseberry, soapberry and a host of other plant-based extracts give my hair shine and a gorgeous scent.  The natural elements prevent hair loss from hormones and stress and I can see after a week of washes that my hair feels stronger.  There’s a depth to the colour too, thanks to the concentrated condition, which is also derived from the same group of Asian botanical extracts.

The added bonus of the Women’s Bundle is the Luxuriant Serum. The serum is to be administered on your scalp to help stimulate growth and prevent hair loss. It has the same fresh, botanical scent as the shampoo and conditioner and doesn’t leave a residue in the hair. I actually think it conditions the hair a bit too, making it easier to style, even though that’s not the intended purpose! The serum needs to be applied a few times a day but the bottle is large enough to last as long as the shampoo and conditioner, making the bundle worthwhile.

Female Shampoo & Conditioner sets from £80: https://luxuriant168.co.uk/products/hair-loss-shampoo-women

MINISO Nail Polish

beauty, Birthday Gifts, Fashion, Gifts for Her, Gifts for teachers, Mother's Day, Stocking Fillers, Women

Disclaimer – We have received this item for free or on a loan basis for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

Treat yourself to some glamorous nail care this spring with the new range of nail varnishes from MINISO. With a range that’s being updated in the coming months, we were sent two colours to try; Shiny Pink and Starlight Gold. Both were from the Golden Cap range, which you can see in the photo is part of their packaging branding too!

These oil-based nail varnishes (or nail polish to give them their American titles) are a steal at just £3.99 for the bottles at 11ml. They’re full size, but not anywhere as expensive as some of the other nail varnishes on the market.  I am wearing the Shiny Pink colour in this photo and it’s only 2 layers (I did have a clear base layer on underneath these layers though.) The colours both glide on with ease, the oil base makes it easy for them to fill out to the corners and gives a shiny finish. As with most oil based varnishes, they take longer to dry but they are very stable and harder to chip when they are fully dry. I would recommend waiting 30 minutes between each layer of colour to allow the varnish to dry properly and last longer.

Each of the colours is deep and builds up to a lovely finish. Shiny Pink is a hint away from red towards pink so you’d be mistaken for thinking it was a primary colour, but there’s a splattering of glitter in the colour which gives it a reflection. The Starlight Gold colour is just as vibrant and works up to a deep colour too. As the name suggests, there’s tiny starlight flecks of gold in the colour too, reflecting back in a disco theme.  This colour is more for the weekend or going out, whereas I felt comfortable wearing the Shiny Pink all week, but there’s no reason why you can’t paint your nails gold for work too!

Available soon from £3.99 here:

https://minisoshop.co.uk/beauty/nail-care

The Blooming Mama Crystal Kit

Birthday Gifts, Gifts for Her, health, Mother's Day, Stocking Fillers, Valentine's Day Gifts, Women

Disclaimer – We have received this item for free or on a loan basis for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

Whether you know about crystals already or are starting your journey, Blooming Mama’s Crystal Kit is a great tool for you, or to gift to someone else. 

Comprising of seven crystals, the set comes in a gift pouch and has instructions too. The crystals are:

  • Smoky Quartz (clear quartz with a black colouring)
  • Peach Moonstone (peach, solid colour with flecks of white)
  • Citrine (clear, with a touch of orange/yellow colouring)
  • Kunzite (icy lilac)
  • Amazonite (turquoise blue with black flecks)
  • Lepidolite ( white and purple marbling)
  • Clear Quartz (clear)

Each crystal relates to a different chakra point in the body and releases energy that is not needed.  The instruction card with the kit explains which crystals work where and how they benefit women in different stages of life. The Blooming Mama Kit is especially good for new mothers who need rebalancing after birth or newborn care, with the instructions explaining that they can be used for meditation and rest, keeping close (ie emotional needs) and bonding time such as with a new baby.

The crystals can be used throughout life though and not just by new mums. For example, Clear Quartz can be used for spiritual connection at any time and many people find it a comforting or helpful when they have an illness. You can also use the kit to see which stone you are drawn to when they are all laid out in front of you, and meditate with it or keep it close for healing.

The Blooming Mama Crystal Kit has been well thought out by Natasha at Always Believe in Miracles, who is a crystal spiritual healer and Reiki practitioner. The crystals are a descent size to use on yourself or to gift to someone else but the sizes do differ considerably due to the nature of harvested stones.  As an all-round kit, this is perfect for getting started with crystals as they cover all the bases (literally, all the chakras are covered!) and the 7 stones are enough to start you on either a crystal or healing journey. At £15.50 for the whole set, it’s a very reasonable way of getting started too, or treating a new mum to some recuperation.

Available from £15.50 at: https://www.alwaysbelieveinmiracles.com/product-page/the-blooming-mama

Helly Hansen Wanderer Shoulder Bag

Birthday Gifts, Family Life, Gifts for Her, National Walking Month, secret santa, Stocking Fillers, Summer, travel, Women

Disclaimer: We received this product free of charge for the purpose of this review and all thoughts and opinions are our own

Whilst Helly Hansen are perhaps better known for their outdoor clothing, they do also have a great range of accessories like the Helly Hansen Wanderer Shoulder bag. This compact bag is a brilliant for travelling and has a good selection of pockets, both zipped and open which are ideal for keeping everything organised when navigating airport or train station queues.

The main compartment is zipped and inside are two mesh pockets. The larger pocket is the perfect size for a phone, while the smaller one will hold smaller essentials, I’ve currently got a lipbalm and a tube of sweets in it but it would also be perfect for a pen or a folded up shopping bag. Inside the bag is a handy key clip, a simple feature but incredibly useful and I no longer find myself rummaging around at the bottom of the bag searching for my keys. The bag is plenty large enough for my purse, phone and everyday essentials and the design means I can keep everything nice and organised. There’s also a couple of pockets on the front of the bag, one zipped and one open, which are perfect for items that I need quick access to.

The bag also has an incredibly useful feature – there’s a zip that runs around the bottom of the bag and this can be unzipped, expanding the capacity to 2.6L. It’s like having my very own Mary Poppins bag and kowing what my family are like when travelling, this is going to come in very handy on our next trip!!

The strap is made from rope and it’s easy to adjust the length by retying the end knots. I also like that the rope can also be removed, turning the bag into a handy travel wallet that’s ideal for storing tickets, passports, electronics and charging cables and can be popped inside a rucksack or larger bag while travelling to keep all your essentials together and easy to grab when needed.

If you don’t pack the bag too full, it’s slim enough to tuck discreetly under a coat or jumper which makes it very handy for travelling, giving an extra layer of security in busy places.

Made from lightweight 70D nylon with a TPU backing, it feels durable enough to cope with travelling, whether that’s by plane, train or car and whilst it isn’t fully waterproof, the taped seams help keep water out, so it can handle an occasional rain shower without any problem.

Overall, it’s a well designed and practical bag that will be perfect for summer adventures.

RRP £35

Superdrug B. Complete Base Make up Brush Set

beauty, Birthday Gifts, eco friendly, Gifts for Her, Mother's Day, Women

Disclaimer: we received this product free of charge for the purpose of this review and all thoughts and opinions are our own.

Make up brushes are every bit as important as the products you apply so it is well worth investing in decent ones. That said, you don’t have to spend a fortune as there are some really good quality brushes available on the High Street like these Superdrug B make up brushes which strike that rare balance between affordability and quality. I’ve been a fan of them for a while now and they certainly give some of the more expensive brands a run for their money! If you haven’t tried the Superdrug B brushes before then The Complete Base Make up Brush Set is a great starter set as it contains four essential make up brushes – a Concealer Brush, Contour Brush, Blending Foundation Brush and a Powder Brush.

I’ll start with the foundation brush because that one really impressed me. It’s beautifully dense but still lovely and soft, packed with plenty of bristles so it buffs foundation into my skin rather than just pushing it around giving a really smooth, flawless finish with no streaks in sight.

The concealer brush is another winner, it picks up just the right amount of product and allows for a really precise, delicate application, particularly around the eyes. I usually rely on my fingers but I might just be converted to a concealer brush now as it blended the concealer beautifully, leaving the skin looking smoother and more even.

The contour brush is just as versatile, it sweeps blusher or bronzer across the cheeks with a soft, natural touch giving a subtle glow to lifts my complexion. Finally, the powder brush is wonderfully soft and fluffy and picks up just the right amount of powder to dust across my face to help set my make-up.  

I am really impressed with these brushes, they glide easily across the skin, making my make-up application quick and easy. The bristles stay firmly in place and I’ve not noticed any falling out which is good. The handles are also very comfortable to hold and the brushes are a nice size and fit nicely in my make-up bag.

All the brushes have a 100% recycled plastic handle and 100% recycled plastic bristles, so they’re a more sustainable choice as well.

Whether you’re just starting to build your brush collection or looking to upgrade the brushes in your make-up bag the Superdrug B.Base Make Up Brush set is a great choice. It has a RRP of £15 but is currently on offer at £12 so it’s a great time to buy.

Rubis 4 Piece Ladies Grooming Leather Case Set

beauty, Birthday Gifts, Gifts for Her, Gifts for Him, Mother's Day, travel, Valentine's Day Gifts, Women

Disclaimer: we received this product free of charge for the purpose of this review and all thoughts and opinions are our own.

I have always been a bit embarrassed about the state of my nails. For years I was a nail biter and as a result my nails are quite weak and have a habit of snagging and tearing, usually once I’ve managed to grow them a little bit! With a couple of important events coming up this year I decided enough was enough as I want my nails to look nice for once, so my New Years resolution was to finally start looking after my nails properly.

The first step was to book a manicure and after a bit of expert advice and a gentle lecture about not nibbling them I was ready to change my ways! I’ve discovered that the secret to good nails is having decent nail tools so I was really pleased when the Rubis 4 Piece Ladies Grooming Leather Case Set arrived. Inside the neat little red leather pouch are four Swiss-engineered tools that mean serious business: Colibri cuticle scissors, nail clippers, a nail file made from the tiniest glass beads, and a rather clever Push & Clean nail cleaner. It’s essentially the Formula One pit crew of nail care, but small enough to live in your handbag.

I already own a pair of Rubis tweezers so I know first hand just how good Rubis products are so armed with my nail technicians expert advice I was, dare I say – quite excited to start trying the new nail tools on my nails. Each tool is crafted in their Switzerland factory from the best stainless, acid-resistant surgical steel, which means they are easy to clean or sterilise and will last for years.

The nail clippers are a fantastic upgrade from my previous ones, the cutting action is noticeably sharper and they cut through nails with a single, precise cut. The curved cuticle scissors are just as impressive, sitting comfortably in both hands, they are nice and sharp and give a really clean finish around the cuticles.

The glass nail file, stored in its own protective pouch, has quickly become my handbag essential. Rather than shredding the edge of the nail like traditional files, it smooths and shapes gently, leaving the nail edge tidy and sealed. Best of all, it stops me reaching for my teeth when I spot a rough edge.

Finally there’s the wonderfully practical double-ended Push & Clean nail cleaner. One end is designed to gently push the skin back from the nail, keeping everything looking neat and well-groomed, while the other end hooks neatly under the nail to remove any trapped dirt. After a day in the garden, it’s absolutely invaluable

The leather pouch is nice and compact and slips easily into my handbag, so when a rogue hangnail appears or a nail suddenly decides to split, I’m prepared. No more emergency nibbling to tidy up my nails !  

With Mother’s Day coming up, this would also make a brilliant gift. It’s practical, beautifully made and the sort of quality item that many mums would never think to buy for themselves but would use all the time. A little touch of Swiss precision that keeps nails looking their best every day.

RRP £104.71 available from allcures.com

Yankee Candle Serenity Stone Signature Large Jar Candle

Birthday Gifts, Fragrance, Gifts for Her, Home, Home & Garden, Women

Disclaimer: we received this product free of charge for the purpose of this review and all thoughts and opinions are our own.

Once upon a time candles were a necessity in all homes, with the flickering flame the only way to light a room in the evening. These days candles are no longer just practical and make an indulgent treat for ourselves (why not?) or a lovely gift for a loved one. They’re also a lot more stylish, with many in elegant glass jars that look just as lovely on a shelf or coffee table as they do when they’re lit.

When you’re buying candles it is definitely worth knowing what to look for. A good candle isn’t just about a pretty jar or fancy sounding fragrance – you need to consider the ingredients, the burn time, the scent, the design and of course the price.

When it comes to fragrance I tend to go for fresh and floral notes and Yankee Candle have plenty of fragrances that feel light, airy and perfect for this time of year. I’m currently enjoying their new Signature Large Jar Serenity Stone Candle, which has a lovely fresh fragrance making it the perfect choice for Spring. The top notes bring together Marine Accord, Dune Grass and Water Hyacinth, which immediately give you that breezy, just stepped outside sort of feeling. Then things soften slightly with Blue Chamomile, Cactus Blossom and Aloe in the middle, before settling into a base of Vetiver, Sea Moss and Wet Stone Accord.

Not only does the candle smell amazing but the Yankee Candle’s elegant glass jars look beautiful in any home. The candle itself is made from a smooth soy wax blend, which means you get a clean, even burn and the wick is made from 100% natural fibres and has been rigorously tested to make sure it burns properly.

With Mother’s Day coming up it’s a great gift for Mum. Whether she lights one to help her relax or just to make the home smell amazing, a Yankee Candle is a guaranteed winner.

The Yankee Candle Signature Large Jar candle retails at £29.99 and with an impressive burn time of between 65 and 80 hours it is excellent value for money.

French Soaps Mother’s Day Gift Set

beauty, Birthday Gifts, cruelty-free, Family Life, Gifts for Her, Gifts for teachers, health, Mother's Day, Stocking Fillers, Vegan, Vegetarian, Women

Disclaimer – We have received this item for free or on a loan basis for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

If you’re struggling for a Mother’s Day Gift, or want to supplement something bigger, French Soaps have a genius gift for you to give on Mother’s Day.  From their range of soaps on their website, they’ve created a Mother’s Day Gift Set which contains 6 vegan soaps, and arrives in a magnetic box with a denim washbag.

Contained in the soap set are fragrances;

  • Tilleul (Linden blossom)
  • Honeysuckle
  • Verbena leaf
  • Cotton Flower
  • Lily of the Valley
  • Aloe Vera

Each soap is made using traditional French soap making techniques and enriched with plant oils and shea butter. They lather up beautifully and can be used every day, but I like to use these in the guest bathroom, or for the bath where the scent can be appreciated. There’s also a washbag that can be used for the soaps or separately, which is surprisingly large and can carry a lot, including all the soaps.

Each of the soaps has a distinctive aroma with the usual ‘soap’ fragrance to them. They’re actually quite pungent so you can smell them as you open the box! They are beautifully wrapped individually with some wrapped in paper, muslin and in presentation boxes. They’re imprinted with the name of Savon de Marseille name and the flavour of the soap so that you can distinguish them. They’re very handy in the magnetic box so that they don’t get damaged in transit which also make them a perfect gift, even if you are splitting up the set and giving the soaps out to different people.

This is a brilliant gift set, or a way of sampling a range of soaps for yourself to see what you like.  There’s a lot of thought gone into designing these soaps as well as making them and giving them the creative edge which you don’t find in the High Street brands, making them more unique than just any beauty of health gift set you can buy everywhere.  They’re a lasting gift too, probably lasting until Christmas when you can buy the French Soaps’ next gift set!

Available from £25 at: https://www.frenchsoaps.co.uk/products/mothers-day-soap-gift-set-2026?utm_source=chatgpt.com

Libi & Daughters No 27 Sun Shield SPF 50

beauty, Birthday Gifts, Gifts for Her, Mother's Day, Stocking Fillers, Summer, Women

Disclaimer – We have received this item for free or on a loan basis for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

Step up your summer beauty regime this year with the Libi & Daughters Sunshield cream with SPF50.  The family run company believes that products should, “Have everything you need and nothing you don’t,” which runs true through all the products they produce.  The list of products on their website is impressive with everything from lip balm to charcoal soaps and you can see that the products are tailored for women and actual needs, not commercial revenue.  We were sent Libi & Daughter’s new No 27 Sun Shield SPF 50 to test, and thankfully there have been a few sunny days this week to try it!

No 27 Sun Shield SPF 50 is made fresh to order, like all the Libi & Daughters products, using olive squalane, jojoba esters and beeswax among other natural ingredients.  Most sun screens leave a white, insoluble film on the skin when applied, but No 27 is made with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide with natural ingredients to help protect the skin from environmental factors and tint the skin to give a warm glow and a dewy look.

No 27 Sun Shield SPF 50 is ideal for all skin tones, but especially for darker or olive skin and can be warn daily.  I would wear this on holiday as it has the slight tinting quality but also because of the high SPF which protects on days with more sunshine than we typically get in the UK!  You can tell that this is a more natural cream because it’s very organic to the touch, and not typical of High Street cosmetics.  Although heavy at first, once you blend in the No 27 Sun Shield, it absorbs and leaves a slight tint, but not as much as you would get with fake tan.  I found that the more I worked it into my skin, the more it gave an even coverage and did indeed leave my skin dewy. There was a definite difference in the reflection of the light after a few minutes, which is how long it takes for the cream to dry properly.

I can’t test how effective the SPF is yet, but with No 27 Sun Shield you do get a hydrating, natural base face cream which peps up your complexion beautifully. There’s hardly any scent to it, except a slight earthy fragrance from the natural ingredients but this is perfect for a holiday or to get yourself ready for work easily in the morning and not having to wear layers of foundation and base creams.

Available from £100 at: https://libi.com/products/nº27-sun-shield-spf-50

MANTA Healthy Hair Brush 

beauty, Birthday Gifts, Family Life, Gifts for Her, Gifts for teachers, Mother's Day, secret santa, Stocking Fillers, travel, Valentine's Day Gifts, Women

Disclaimer – We have received this item for free or on a loan basis for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

It’s time for hairbrushes to get a glow up! The MANTA Healthy Hair Brush uses FLEXGUARD technology to create a hairbrush that sits in the palm of your hand and has a heat resistance of up to 80 degrees centigrade (175 Fahrenheit).  The bristles are super gentle on hair and scalp, even flyaway hair and create shine when the hair is brushed from scalp to ends. It’s anti static and can be used on wet or dry hair. As the bristles are far apart, they don’t snag as they pull through fine hair, and if the ends are dry, you don’t rip away and break strands of hair as you brush. The MANTA Hair Brush can be used on all types of hair including hair extensions.

The MANTA sits in your hand comfortably by I found it easier to use on myself if I hold it from the handle and work my way through the length of my hair, starting at the scalp. Although this is a hair brush, it actually works perfectly as a scalp massager, taking the tension out of the scalp as you massage the brush through your hair. Taking the MANTA from the front of your scalp to the back of your neck and then to the ends of your hair, you’re also transferring the good oils to the rest of the hair and conditioning the cuticles as you do so.  It feels absolutely amazing! As the bristles aren’t really close together, it gives a good massage as well as not damaging the hair too much. I loved using it after washing my hair to distribute the styling products without disturbing my natural curls. It’s great for putting your hair back into a messy pony tail too once your hair is dry. 

This is a great investment for yourself or as a gift for someone else. It’s perfect for taking on holiday though with the travel pouch it comes with and the hand-held size that means it can even fit into your hand luggage!

Available from £30 at: https://www.boots.com/manta-original-healthy-hair-and-scalp-brush-pink-10345639

Eyeam Bi-Phase Magnesium Body Treatment Spray

beauty, Birthday Gifts, Fitness, Gifts for Her, health, Mother's Day, Stocking Fillers, Valentine's Day Gifts, Women

Disclaimer – We have received this item for free or on a loan basis for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

If you’ve ever come back from the gym already aching from a workout, felt tired enough in the evening and need something to help you wind down or still feel tired when you wake up, then it could be a lack of magnesium in your diet. Thankfully, magnesium can be absorbed through the skin to boost your energy.  Eyeam have created the Bi-Phase Magnesium Body Treatment Spray to aid your magnesium absorption, but to also tone your skin and add vitamins such as C and E.

Either at bedtime, or after exercise, shake the bottle to combine both treatments and spray on your legs, torso and arms.  Massage into the skin and muscles to feel the full benefit of the magnesium and oils.  The Treatment Spray has a slight citrus scent to it, but doesn’t act like a lotion, it’s more like an oil. It absorbs into the skin easily and hydrates, giving a slight matt glow which works perfectly for after the gym when your skin is dehydrated by the blood is circulating.  The added vitamins help nourish the skin as well.  The added botanicals help calm the mind too, so it’s ideal for night time when the magnesium makes you sleepy, and the vitamins and botanicals support your sleep routine.

This is not your usual body lotion – it’s a treatment for those serious in getting healthier skin and absorbing the correct nutrients and making your skin look the best it can be, long term.

Available from £49.00 at: https://eyeamworld.com/collections/shop-all/products/magnesium-bi-phase-body-treatment-spray

11:11 Self Heating Eye Masks

beauty, Birthday Gifts, Family Life, Gifts for Her, Mother's Day, secret santa, Stocking Fillers, travel, Valentine's Day Gifts, Women

Disclaimer – We have received this item for free or on a loan basis for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

Relax this Valentines Day with some self-care, or give some love with the 11:11 Self Heating Eye Masks. These 3 single use eye masks are great for when you need some quiet time, or when trying to get to sleep and travelling thanks to their heating ability and some rose and oud scents.

The eye masks are felt-like pads with heat pouches inside. They instantly start to warm up as soon as you open the packet. The elastic ear loops allow you to wear the eye patches whilst you lie back for up to 25 minutes (I found the heat lasted for more than 30 minutes though) and the fragrance of rose and oud oozes from them.  The packet contains a complimentary audio ritual to work with the eye patches and allow them to calm you even more. The sound bath music and soothing warmth around your eyes helps you drift into slumber, or simply relax.

I wore these before bed and was pleasantly surprised by how they calmed my mind mostly. The eye patches aren’t for blocking out light, but they do warm up the area around your eye and your eyelids. Not specifically for beauty, I did find that my eyes were nicely relaxed and slightly softer thanks to the effects of the heat!

Available from £9.95: https://sensoryretreats.com/products/11-11-self-heating-eye-masks

Bow Embroidered Cotton Pyjama Set from Boux Avenue

Birthday Gifts, Family Life, Fashion, Gifts for Her, Mother's Day, Stocking Fillers, Valentine's Day Gifts, Women

Disclaimer – We have received this item for free or on a loan basis for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

Mother’s Day is notoriously difficult to buy for, but taking time to buy Mum something luxurious, which she’ll use regularly.  Boux Avenue have a range of lingerie, nightwear and swimwear that are perfect for Mother’s Day as gifts. This week, we were sent the Bow Embroidered Cotton Pyjama Set to try out from the Boux range, in size 16.

This button-up, collared pyjama set is 100% cotton with a crinkly texture to it, adorned by white bows. The pink colour is particularly flattering and the little bows add a touch of femininity.  The shirt is collared and button down the front, and the trousers are elasticated string tie.  I’m not particularly tall (5’ 5”) and the shirt is long enough to tuck into the trousers, and the leg length is just below my ankle.  There is minimal tailoring on the shirt but there is a breast pocket, and the trouser legs are wide all the way to the ankle to be more comfortable.

When wearing these pyjamas, I found them to be very warm in this weather, as the cotton material adapts to different temperatures. They wash beautifully and there was no shrinkage.  They look really good in photos and are great for holidays or sleepovers, but not only for Mother’s Day Gifts, it occurred to me that these would be great bridesmaid gifts or for a Girls Night In because they’re so photogenic!

Available for £52 at: https://www.bouxavenue.com/new-in-nightwear/bow-embroidered-cotton-pyjama-set/211950_20PX.html?cgid=1000458

Neve’s Bees Beeswax Tinted Lip and Cheek Balms

beauty, Birthday Gifts, Christmas, Gifts for Her, secret santa, Stocking Fillers, Valentine's Day Gifts, Winter, Women

Tucked away in the rolling countryside of North Oxfordshire, Neve’s Bees is a family run business, founded by Julie Macken and named after her daughter Neve. After a bout of hands-on tinkering with beeswax, natural plant oils and rich butters, Julie realised that she could make skincare products that were kinder, richer and infinitely better for your skin than most high street brands. From those early “lotions and potions”, Neve’s Bees was born. Today, they offer a wonderful selection of natural products, including these fantastic tinted lip and cheek balms. Available in three flattering shades, Berry, Bronze and Maple, each balm costs £9.95 and comes in a handy little tin which is the perfect size for popping in my handbag or coat pocket.

Each balm is blended with 100% natural and organic plant oils, natural beeswax from Neve’s Bees’ own hives, and ethically sourced, COSMOS-approved mineral mica. The mica alone took three years to source and is fully traceable, certified by both the Soil Association and COSMOS, and guaranteed to be free from child labour. It is beauty you can feel good about, in every sense.

So on to the ingredients of the balms – Beeswax locks in moisture and provides a layer of protection, while upcycled apricot kernel oil absorbs quickly and leaves the skin feeling smooth. Organic jojoba oil contributes hydration whilst vitamin E helps protect the skin. Finally, mica adds a soft, civilised glow to your skin.

Like most balms they are solid in the tin and warm up with the heat of your fingertips. Use on cheeks, lips or eyelids for an instant healthy-looking freshness. The formula is breathable and non-drying and feels nourishing as well as acting as a gentle highlighter and tint. As they are a balm I was expecting them to feel greasy or sticky on my cheeks and was pleasantly surprised when they didn’t. They give just the right hint of colour for a natural glow and are great for keeping lips hydrated in the cold weather.

The shades have been created to suit all skin tones. Berry gives lips and cheeks a natural, plummy flush, not unlike the effect of a brisk walk in the fresh air. Bronze, meanwhile, adds instant warmth with a subtle golden shimmer. Maple offers a subtle golden-red tint to your skin.

Neve’s Bees also donate 10% of their profits to wildlife causes, helping to restore precious wildflower meadows and providing vital habitat for bees and other pollinators so when you buy their products this February you’re not only treating your Valentine, or yourself, but also giving something back to the natural world.

Neve’s Bees Tinted Lip & Cheek Balms would make a beautiful little Valentine’s gift for a loved one as they’re the kind of present that feels personal, pampering and full of love – and they leave lips soft, smooth and very kissable 💗🐝

RRP £9.95

Footsie Foot products

beauty, Birthday Gifts, Gifts for Her, hiking, National Walking Month, Stocking Fillers, Vegan, Winter, Women

My feet do an awful lot of work and like most people I’m guilty of not showing them the care they should receive. Walking across hills, tucked into sturdy boots, squashed into heels over the Christmas period and constantly swaddled in socks and wooly tights they had become quite dry and a bit rough around the edges. So when a couple of footcare treats arrived from Footsie, a new footcare brand with a range of six new products designed to properly pamper hardworking feet, it felt like a gentle nudge to finally give mine the TLC they were desperately in need of.

First I needed to get rid of the dry skin so the Smooth Operator 2 in 1 Glass Foot File, (RRP £7) was quickly put to use. The dual-action file made light work of the hard skin on my feet, smoothing my heels and soles quickly and effectively. Made from 100% toughened glass, it feels nice and robust and being made of glass it is hygienic and will last a long time. The file can be used on both wet and dry skin and has two different textured surfaces, the coarse edge is designed to remove hard, thick skin and the finer side is used for gentle exfoliation.

Once filed and exfoliated it was time for a taste of the tropics with the Tropical Toes Coco Luscious Foot Butter (RRP £7). This rich, indulgent cream melted beautifully into my skin leaving my feet nice and hydrated and refreshed. It is also great as an overnight treatment, a generous application before bed then I pop a pair of cotton socks on and by morning my feet feel lovely and soft and ready for action. I’ve been using it every evening for the last couple of weeks and my feet are looking so much better. The dry skin on my heels has completely gone and my feet look and feel cared for again.

Now that my feet have been well and truly pampered, they’re ready to carry me across hill, dale and anywhere else I choose to wander.

The Footsie products are all available from Boots

Cut By Fred Hair Products

beauty, Gifts for Her, Mother's Day, Valentine's Day Gifts, Vegan, Women

I have curly hair which is currently very dry and frizzy and at the minute I am certainly having more bad hair days than good! I was therefore really pleased when a box of Cut By Fred landed on my doorstep and couldn’t wait to see what they would do to my dry mop of hair.

Cut By Fred is a cult haircare brand created by hairstylist Fred Birault and it officially launched in the UK in 2025. Fred’s whole ethos is making haircare feel like it does backstage or in the salon and he wanted his products to be effective, intuitive and a bit joyful and not to include harsh ingredients or overcomplicated formulas. The result is natural, vegan haircare that respects your hair, the planet and those little everyday rituals we all secretly love.

I’ve been using the Vegan Hydration Shampoo, the iconic Vegan Hydration Mask and the Vegan Serum for a couple of weeks now and I have to say I’m really pleased with all the products. The shampoo (RRP £29) is nice and gentle and lathers beautifully, cleansing my hair and scalp and most importantly giving my curls some much needed hydration.

Now let’s talk about the Vegan Hydration Mask (RRP £41) because this is where the magic really happens. My curls are naturally dry, frizzy and a bit dull, so a hydrating mask is non negotiable in my routine. This one is rich, creamy and packed with jojoba oil, coconut oil, sweet almond oil and aloe leaf juice. I applied it to my hair, combed it through and then left it on for the full 15 minutes before scrunching it into my hair to really lock in the moisture. It rinsed out easily leaving my hair tangle free and my curls noticeably softer, shinier and more defined.

Once my hair is dry a drop or two of the Vegan Serum (RRP £32) is all I need to smooth the frizz and add a touch of shine to my curls.  

Most of the time I let my hair dry naturally and I have noticed that my hair is less frizzy and I have much better curl definition. When I take the time to dry it with a diffuser, I’ve found that my hair has more bounce and the curls are staying defined for much longer. Thanks to Cut By Fred in just a couple of washes my dry, frizzy locks have been transformed into glossy, defined curls and I am absolutely delighted.

The packaging is simple but stylish, with an elegant glass shampoo bottle and a generously sized mask jar with a wide opening that makes scooping out product easy and mess free. The serum has a pippette dispenser which makes it easy to dispense just the right amount and ther’s no wastage.

If you are looking to up your haircare game and give your curls some proper love, I really recommend giving Cut By Fred a try. I’m looking forward to trying out more of their products as they release more into the UK.

The products are currently available from Oh My Cream

NecessaryGood Bright & Hydrated Moisturizer and Protected & Hydrated SPF 50

beauty, Gifts for Her, health, Summer, Women

Disclaimer – We have received this item for free or on a loan basis for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

NecessaryGood is a portmanteau of the ideal skin cream.  What does your skin need? And what is good for your skin?  With thousands of skincare products on the market, NecessaryGood realised that there was no way of knowing what your skin needed, and what was available, so they decided to create a range which was just about good ingredients, mixed right, high quality and therefore the most effective.  They pride themselves on not being in the top price range either. We were sent their Bright & Hydrated Moisturiser and their Protected & Hydrated SPF 50 day creams to try out.

The Necessary Good Bright & Hydrated Moisturiser prides itself on being able to hydrate, brighten and support your skin barrier all at the same time.  It’s a really rich cream, much like a serum, which blends in with some work to create a deep barrier. It softened my skin first, which probably suggests that I needed more hydration by the end of the day! You can use this skincare more than once a day too, which is ideal as we go into summer.  There’s no fragrance to this day cream, it can be used day and night and is ideal as an all-over base before make-up or for when you’re working from home and need some daily skin hydration.

The NecessaryGood Protected & Hydrated SPF 50 day cream is less rich than the Bright & Hydrate and takes a little more working into the skin, which is probably due to its SPF ingredients.  It’s lighter too and has a tad more fragrance to it, which I put down to the cotton seed extract. There’s added vitamins E and B5 and contains both UVA and UVB advanced filters.  I can’t test this one in the sun until the weather warms up, but SPF 50 is pretty high for this country, so you could use this on your summer holidays. It still hydrates your skin, even though it has the sun protection with it. With all the benefits of both day creams being the “Necessary Good”, they’re both great for taking on holiday this summer!

NecessaryGood Bright & Hydrated Moisturiser £27: https://necessarygood.com/collections/shop-all/products/bright-hydrated-moisturiser

NecessaryGood Protected & Hydrated SPF 50 £29:

Protected & Hydrated SPF 50

Dr PawPaw Your Gorgeous Skin SPF Day Cream and Lip Balm

beauty, Birthday Gifts, eco friendly, Gifts for Her, Gifts for teachers, health, Mother's Day, Stocking Fillers, Vegan, Vegetarian, Women

Disclaimer – We have received this item for free or on a loan basis for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

Award-winning Dr PawPaw have sent us their SPF Day Cream and Lip Balm to test before the summer holidays start in earnest, and based on the lovely fruity scents when opening the products, we couldn’t wait to get started!

Dr PawPaw is a British based company started in 2013 with most of the products made here too. Originally, the products were for soothing owners Pauline and Johnny Paterson’s young daughter’s eczema, but their following soon grew and they branched out into other products.  The company pride themselves on using eco-friendly materials, which are recycled and biodegradable when possible.  

The Dr PawPaw SPF Lip Balm and Day Cream are both vegan and cruelty-free, like all their products. The Lip Balm, which has added SPF 30, is targeted at keeping lips soft but also has the Dr PawPaw healing properties. It’s a very light application which can be used in the sun, or every day especially if you’re not wearing make-up. I like to use it at night to condition my lips as a I sleep. As you don’t need very much, it absorbs easily and has a lovely pawpaw taste to it which lingers when you put it on. It lasts enough of the night too so that your lips are still conditioned when you wake up.

The Dr PawPaw SPF 50 Day Cream is equally as fruity scented and a rich day cream, but it actually blends in very easily. My skin wasn’t oily with this day cream, but there was some light refraction to leave my skin looking like it had a glow. It contains hyaluronic acid and vitamin E for enriching the skin and the SPF 50 really helps when the sun comes out! This 45ml tube would be great for taking on holiday.  I can’t wait for the day when the sun is out and I get to test out the SPF on both of these Dr PawPaw products!

Dr PawPaw SPF Lip Balm £4.95: https://www.drpawpaw.com/products/lip-balm-spf

Dr PawPaw SPF 50 Day Cream £18.00: https://www.drpawpaw.com/products/spf-50-pa-day-cream?selling_plan=7776010475&variant=43817267855595

Boux Avenue Valentine’s Collection: Tunnel of Love

Fashion, Gifts for Her, Valentine's Day Gifts, Women

Disclaimer: We received this product free of charge for the purpose of this review and all thoughts and opinions are our own

Love is in the air, and whether you celebrate it or not there is no denying that the shops all think that you should!! Walk into almost any high street store at this time of year and you will be met with a riot of pink, red and heart-shaped persuasion. Whether you’re buying for a partner, or simply treating yourself (and why not?), this is the season for romance.

Valentine’s Day gifts have a tendency to fall into two camps. On the one hand, there is the novelty end of the spectrum, amusing but short-lived. On the other, there are things that are made to be enjoyed long after the 14th has been and gone. Lingerie, when done properly, firmly belongs in the latter category.

Boux Avenue has clearly taken this approach with its latest Valentine’s collection, rather grandly titled Tunnel of Love. Available in all 27 UK stores and online from Monday 12 January 2026, the collection leans unapologetically into romance and drama, without tipping into parody. This is lingerie designed to be worn, enjoyed and admired, rather than put in drawer never to see the light of day again.

The range is available in sizes 6 to 18, with selected bras available up to an H cup, which speaking as a larger chested lady is really good news! Prices run from £14 to £55, placing it firmly in the “treat yourself or someone else without requiring a second mortgage” category. Boux Avenue has also really nailed that all-important balance – the pieces feel glamorous, confident and a little bit daring, but they’re also comfortable too.  

According to Zoe Price-Smith, Boux Avenue’s Chief Design and Product Officer, the inspiration for the range came from high-drama catwalks, burlesque shows and the glamour of the Moulin Rouge. The result is something theatrical without being over the top with delicate eyelash lace, spot mesh, intricate heart embroideries and sumptuous satins. The romantic colour palette of classic black, deep reds, pinks and rich berry sees the designs exude sensuality and confidence, and is designed to make the wearer stand a little taller and feel entirely at ease in her own skin.

Boux Avenue kindly send me the Vivienne Lingerie Set with the soft blush pink set, intricate embroidery and raised red floral detailing striking the perfect balance between classic and chic,  The red embroidered flowers edging the cups and knickers add just enough Valentine’s charm without shouting about it, making it a set I’ll happily wear when Valentine’s Day is nothing but a distant memory!  

Unlike some other lingerie brands Boux Avenue haven’t forgotten those ladies with a fuller bust. All too often, brands either forget about us, stopping at at D or E cup or design bras with pure functionality in mind, leaving style firmly behind. Boux Avenue certainly don’t compromise on style with the bras feeling supportive and secure, yet still beautifully modern and flattering, proving that comfort and confidence can go hand in hand.

Foe ease of gifting the lingerie arrives in a gift box and free gift wrapping is available. Delivery costs £3.99 with free delivery over £50 and free returns. There is also 15 percent off for those who sign up by email.

Vivienne 3D Embroidery Balconette in Pink Mix £45.00 (Sizes 30C-38G)

Vivienne Briefs in Pink Mix £18.00 (Sizes 6-18)

Vivienne Thong in Pink Mix (Sizes 6-18)

Egg Free Cake Box – Red Velvet Dubai Chocolate Cake

Birthday Gifts, Christmas, Food & Drink, Gifts for Her, Gifts for Him, Winter, Women

Disclaimer: We received this product free of charge for the purpose of this review but all thoughts and opinions are our own.

With Christmas just around the corner, the shops are full of festive treats. While there will always be a place for a traditional Christmas cake or pudding, it’s rather lovely to discover something a little different – and this Red Velvet Dubai Chocolate Cake from Egg Free Cake Box is just that.

The cake is a beautifully light and moist red velvet sponge, generously layered with a silky pistachio cream and Egg Free Cake Box’s signature Dubai mix, which brings a gentle nuttiness and a pleasing sweetness. The sides are neatly finished with classic red velvet crumbs there’s also the option to personalise your cake; ours simply read “Enjoy”, but you can choose your own message when ordering.

On top of the cake is delicate creamy piping, adorned with a light sprinkle of suter pheni and crunchy pistachio pieces, while fresh strawberries, blueberries, raspberries and blackberries add a cheerful splash of colour. It’s decorative without being fussy and my husband especially enjoyed the lighter topping as he finds cakes full of buttercream much too sweet.  

I must confess I hadn’t come across Egg Free Cake Box before, so I was surprised to discover several shops within a short distance of home. With over 250 locations nationwide, their impressive Click & Collect service means you can order a cake and collect it within just an hour – perfect for last-minute get togethers.  The company started back in 2008 with a single shop in East London and has grown steadily, always placing an emphasis on quality ingredients and careful craftsmanship.

All of their cakes are completely egg free, reflecting the founders’ strict lacto-vegetarian diet. When I was eating the cake I really couldn’t tell that it was egg free – there’s certainly no compromise when it comes to flavour or texture – which also makes these cakes a reassuring choice for parties where egg allergies may be a concern.

Our cake was delivered by a man in a car and it was well packaged in a large cake box. When I opened the box, it looked even more delicious than I’d hoped! The red velvet sponge had a lovely depth of flavour and wasn’t too sweet, while the pistachio and Dubai cream brought a luxurious nuttiness that worked incredibly well and make the cake incredibly moreish!

While it’s at its best within 24 hours, we popped it in the fridge for an extra day and the sponge stayed beautifully light and soft and was just as tasty as it was on the first day.

This is the sort of cake that would sit proudly on a Christmas Day table, perfect for sharing with family, and it makes a cracking alternative to the usual Christmas pudding – or a very good excuse to have both. We all thought it was absolutely delicious and wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Egg Free Cake Box. With my birthday landing at the end of December, I can already tell you where my cake will be coming from this year.

RRP from £32.99 for a 6” cake