● Laura Thornberry ● Lifestyle Blogger ● London Based ●

AD| Whilst online dating isn't a new thing, almost everything went virtual this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the lockdowns making it difficult to find love/friendship. So what will dating look like in 2021 you might ask? I've been researching into dating trends we will encounter for the foreseeable future, and once the lockdown rules begin to ease, we will soon be able to get out dating plans on track, including outdoor dates, long-distance relationships, increased selfie taking and taking things slow. All of which we can expect to see in the world of love next year.

TREND 1 - SLOW DATING

By slow dating, I'm talking about there being no real rush to meet up with potential partners. Using the lockdown time wisely means you can really get to know someone well, have more engaging chats and just be more relaxed in terms of dating. It can be quite a daunting thing for many people, but lockdown has let us chat to people from the comfort of our own homes, and let things flow more naturally. There's none of those awkward first dates, or picking the perfect outfit. Slow dating will be more popular as there is really no rush when it comes to love.

TREND 2 - LONG DISTANCE RELATIONSHIPS

Life in lockdown has seen us all get online and connect with others from all over the country. Many singles would have changed their dating app profiles and increased the distance of their matches, to help them find love. Long distance relationships are much more popular these days, and are definitely set to continue to rise in 2021, once we’re able to get out and meet up with our matches. Whether you're London dating, Essex dating, Lancashire dating or even West Midlands dating, connecting with others from all around the country is a great way to make new friends, and even make new love interests.

TREND 3 - DATING OUTDOORS

If long distance isn't something you're after, then there is definitely no harm with chatting and meeting up with people from your local area. In terms of going on dates, it will most likely be more relaxed and more chilled. Perfect for those who get quite nervous and anxious about dating. Lockdown has allowed us to get outside and explore our surroundings more, going for walks to the park, along the beach and even take in some of the beautiful countryside that we don't usually see in day to day life. Outdoor dates are going to be a popular option for 2021, allowing us to begin catching up IRL by having socially distanced meetups.

TREND 4 - MORE SELFIES

With lockdown rules in place, people are continuing to spend more and more time with online dating apps hoping to meet their match. 2021, we’re going to see singles girls and guys paying closer attention to their dating profile pictures, making sure they are 10/10. Instead of the typical travel photos and night out snaps, taking and uploading the perfect selfies will be the next best thing! Finding your best angle, wearing your favourite clothes and most importantly, getting that good lighting, you're bound to score a few more matches once the selfie game is 10/10.

How will your dating life change in 2021?

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AD - GIFTED | How long has it been since you've had a relaxing pamper night? Especially with the current lockdown and everything going on in the world, it's extremely important to take a step back and enjoy some time to yourself, and there's nothing better than a self care pamper evening. Obviously one of the most relaxing and unwinding things to do is have a nice hot bath/shower, but there are a few other steps you can take for the ultimate pamper. So treat yourself today by checking my list of self-care tips to get inspired.

1. First things first, skincare. Is there anything better than taking your makeup off after a long day, and just feeling extremely refreshed and revitalized. I like to use a hot cloth cleanser to take off any makeup, as its extremely gentle on the eyes for those who wear mascara, eyeliner or eyeshadow. I would then opt for a facial exfoliator, or a face wash with my cleansing brush, for a deeper clean, even followed up by a face mask for that super skin detox. This leaves my skin feeling super soft and smooth. Finishing up with any products that I would use in my skincare routine, depending on my current skin needs. During the winter time, I'm ALL about hydration and getting that skin glow. Moisturising creams, serums, oils are winter essentials, and don't forget that lip balm!

2. Next up, haircare. Washing, drying and styling your hair can seem like such a chore, but applying a luxurious hair mask beforehand makes it so much more worthwhile. Hair masks that make my hair silky, smooth and shiny are my absolute must haves, as well as leaving my hair smelling delicious. I make sure to brush my hair thoroughly before applying my hair mask, and make sure each strand is covered from root to tip, and leave it to get to work for as long as possible, sometimes even overnight! I've also recently added the OGX Kukui Oil duo and The Hair Boss Overnight Serum to my haircare routine, and my hair has never looked better. So soft, nourished and super shiny.

3. After having a nice warm, relaxing bath/shower, it's a must have to put on some super cosy and comfy loungewear/pyjamas. Oversized is a must have as there is nothing worse than tight, uncomfortable clothing. I recently posted some super comfy loungewear finds from FemmeLuxe - think oversized joggers and cute matching co-ords!

4. Creating a cosy environment is an essential part of making your evening super relaxing and calm. Make sure to be lighting some candles, grabbing all the fluffy blankets and cushions, you could even hang up some cute fairy lights. Having a cosy environment around you can help to de-stress and give you a break from your daily routine.

5. Something that I've been including recently in my pamper routine is making a warm, relaxing drink. I've really been enjoying the Organic India Teas* and found these to really help destress and unwind during the colder evenings. My favourite is definitely the Tulsi Pomegranate Green Tea*. Infused with Pomegranate and Hibiscus flowers and the tangy flavour of Raspberries is a delightful combination and the perfect drink to have in the evenings. Tulsi is a great addition as it rich in antioxidants and can help to boost your immune system. The Organic India Teas are extremely relaxing, warming and delicious, and a must try for those who love green tea or even if you want a break from the usual coffee, tea or hot chocolate!

6. One part of your self care evening should be treating yourself to your favourite foods and drinks. There's nothing more comforting than ordering/making your favourite dishes, followed with a glass of your favourite drink to lift your spirits. There's so many great choices, whether you're a lover of pasta, pizza, Chinese, Indian, Mexican, the options are never ending, and there is always food to fit your mood.

7. Finally, get comfy and sit back and watch your favourite films/series. Whether you pick something from Netflix, Disney+, YouTube or just something on the TV, it's the perfect way to spend the rest of your evening. I'm currently watching Orange Is The New Black, and I'm hooked!

What are your self care pamper essentials?

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AD| Do you have to apply for a marriage visa? This provides a foreign national the right to reside in the UK with their wedded partner. Still, the sad truth is the fact that visa refusals have risen by about eighteen per cent in the United Kingdom. Hence, it's critical that you complete your spouse visa application correctly.

If you're not 100 percent confident in regards to the best way to get about this, you undoubtedly have to utilise the professional services of seasoned experts who will make certain your visa application has the greatest opportunity of being successful.

There are many conditions you need to fulfil and several documents you will need to supply also. Top quality immigration lawyers will undoubtedly have the ability to make sure you have whatever you need. But, locating a business you'll be able to trust is never a simple challenge, particularly when you're placing something so significant in their hands.

marriage photos

As touched upon, there are plenty of prerequisites for a marriage visa. In case you have been with your partner for less than four years you'll be allowed a probationary UK visa marriage for just two years. At the conclusion of the span, if you and your partner are still together, the visa marriage becomes long-term. You'll additionally have to pass the Life in the UK evaluation, which is just another reason why immigration lawyers end up being critical, as they will be able to assist you to be successful in this area.

In addition, you must have sufficient money to cover your living expenses, you should have actually met your partner and you need to intend to reside with one and another. This just touches the surface of the assorted conditions and stipulations which are in place for somebody needing a marriage visa in the UK. One little blunder could cost you a UK visa. You will need an excellent organisation to ensure this doesn't occur.

You need to find a good team of immigration lawyers to help. You need professionals who are tremendously experienced and understand the best way to navigate through the complicated rules and deal with the UK immigration authorities. Make sure you select a firm that will recognise how emotional and trying this time can be, and will take that into consideration - acting with empathy - through the service they supply.

They should keep you up to date each step of the way and one thing you can really seek out is a truthful service. Make sure the company will run a comprehensive evaluation of your conditions so as to find out whether you qualify or not. They should never mislead you or give you false expectations.

You may also want to look for a company that will work on a fixed fee basis. They should let you know the cost of their service upfront and you should be confident there will not be any hidden costs or additional fees.

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If you're an avid Primark shopper, you may have noticed their recent beauty range that hit the shelves earlier this year, featuring celebrity hair stylist Andrew Fitzsimons. This collaboration has created an affordable haircare range that delivers amazing results for your hair. The collection includes everything from the shampoos and conditioners to styling sprays and accessories, there's so much choice, you'll want absolutely everything!

Primark X Andrew Fitzsimons AF Luxe Hair Oil

I knew that I definitely wanted to try lots of products from the AF range, but the one haircare piece that really stood out to me was the Luxe Hair Oil. I absolutely love hair oils and I don't know what I would do without them, so I really wanted to give this one a go and see how well it works for my hair.

“Everyone deserves amazing hair without having to pay celebrity prices” - Andrew Fitzsimons

From the first use, I knew I was really going to love this product, and would definitely repurchase again when needed. The oil itself feels thick and luxurious, just be sure to go carefully, as a little goes a long way. I have medium length hair, and found just one pump is enough to coat my mid-lengths and ends, without leaving any greasy residue or weighing your hair down like some other oils can.

I've used this oil both on damp and dry hair. It's perfect for using once you've just washed your hair, simply massage a pump of oil through your fingertips and apply to the ends. Or similarly, using on dry hair just to add some life back into hair that may look dull and in need of some TLC. The luxe hair oil makes your hair so much more manageable, banishing frizz, eliminating any tangles, as well as adding shine, leaving your hair super soft and silky.

Retailing at just £3.50, this hair oil was a complete steal! I would highly recommend this hair oil as it has really done wonders with my hair. My hair feels so much softer, smoother and hydrated - even my ends look healthy! I will definitely be trying some more from the Andrew Fitzsimons range at Primark when I get the chance. There's a hair mask that's available that's calling my name!

Have you tried any of the AF haircare range? What are your favourite Primark beauty products?

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AD - GIFTED | Living in joggers ATM? Me too! I've ditched the jeans in favour for joggers, sweatshirts, hoodies and leggings. Of course, loungewear is more popular and more available than ever, now that we are again being advised to spend more time at home in light of coronavirus pandemic. And, with many of us working from home or furloughed, it's important we're all as comfortable as possible during such uncertain times, as well as keeping warm during the colder months of the year. For me, loungewear is the epitome of comfort; you can still feel cute, casual and comfy, whilst looking super stylish and put together. Loungewear might be basic, but it's definitely not boring! There's so many cute styles and sets available, you'll be wanting something in every colour and your wardrobe will be filling up in no time at all!

I was recently kindly gifted some pieces from FemmeLuxe, and wanted to share some lockdown loungewear pieces with you and how I have styled them. Joggers and lounge sets are this seasons essentials, whether you dress them up or down, they are super versatile and some comfy pieces you defo need. If you're looking for a pair of new joggers or a loungewear set, you'll want to keep reading this post as you may just find what you've been after!

Outfit 1 - You can never go wrong with a black outfit. Black clothing is definitely my favourite to wear and this combo is the perfect 'fit for everyone. Featuring an elasticated waist with a hidden drawstring and a cuffed hem, these joggers are super comfy and flattering. I've teamed up these black oversized joggers* with a slogan sweatshirt for the perfect everyday look. I sized up in these lounge joggers, so they would be super oversized and comfy. This outfit is perfect for both inside and outside, so whether you're popping to the shops, chilling in bed watching Netflix or even doing an at home workout, this is what you need!

Grey Tie Dye Oversized Sweatshirt Loungewear Set FemmeLuxe

Outfit 2 - Is there anything cuter than a matching co-ord lounge set? If tie dye and oversized is your vibe, then you're gonna need to get your hands on this asap! This grey tie dye loungewear set* is so soft and slightly more fitted to the body, you could even wear these as a pyjama set. You could even wear this out of the house too! Simply pair with an oversized black puffer coat and some chunky trainers, and you're good to go!

Outfit 3 - For this outfit, I kept things quite neutral and styled the outfit around similar colour tones. Nudes and browns are everywhere these days, and definitely some of the top colours of the autumn/winter season. I've teamed a simple nude sleeveless bodysuit with some tan oversized joggers*, for that casual off-duty look. To add some warmth to the outfit, I've paired it with a neutral checked shacket which are super on-trend right now, and perfect for those slightly warmer, autumnal days when you don't need a super warm coat.

Stone High Waisted Seam Cuffed Joggers FemmeLuxe

Outfit 4 - Again, another simple outfit. You can't go wrong with an oversized sweat and some joggers for the perfect WFH outfit.. On this occasion, I've gone for something slightly different. These high waisted joggers* have a seam running down them, which just adds some interested to the outfit, and helps to elongate the legs. A simple slogan sweat is a must have, and this green colour is absolutely gorgeous! Team this with a pair of slippers for at home, or a gorgeous, thick teddy coat and trainers for when you're popping out.

So whether you're looking for some WFH outfit inspo, or are simply on the hunt for some casual, comfy and super affordable loungewear, I hope this post has given you that much needed inspiration. I know I definitely want to fill my wardrobe with loads more joggers and sets. You can never have too many!

Which outfit is your favourite? Have you shopped at FemmeLuxe?

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