● Laura Thornberry ● Lifestyle Blogger ● London Based ●: Search results for fragrances

Reed diffusers are extremely popular in home fragrances right now. With an amazing variety of scents available, they are a great way to add constant fragrance to your home, and they will give you a scent that's much longer-lasting than a candle. As they lightly release the scent throughout the room without flames, making them more practical and much safer to use in the home.

I decided to head to my local Primark's homeware department and pick up a Reed Diffuser, to try out for myself and see what all the fuss was about. I opted for the very fruity and refreshing sounding "Pink Lemonade" diffuser, which just screamed Summer to me! A revitalising mix of fruity flavours and lemonade make this perfect for any home!

Reed diffusers are so quick and easy to use... Simply remove the stopper from the top of the glass bottle and insert the reeds into the fragranced diffuser oil. The reeds soak up the scent, emitting a pleasant and fresh aroma around your home. You will need to flip the reeds over, around once a week, to avoid them drying out so that the scent of the diffuser oil can continue spreading throughout the room.

The scent of the Pink Lemonade Diffuser is described as Rhubarb and Lemon, which to me is a perfect combination for a truly summertime fragrance. The sweet and sugary Rhubarb, combined with the zesty, zingy and citrus Lemon, makes this such a refreshing and uplifting aroma to have in the home. Super fresh and extremely fruity, it's definitely one homeware product to pick up on your next Primark trip!

The 100ml Pink Lemonade Reed Diffuser from Primark has great lasting power. It will keep your room smelling fresh for up to 8 weeks! That's a whole TWO MONTHS! Primark have plenty of other available scents in their homeware range, so if Pink Lemonade isn't for you, there will definitely be something to suit your preferences. From Madagascan Vanilla to Vintage Blossom to Sea Salt and Lavender to Pomegranate and Fig, there is a huge variety of fragrances perfect for any home!

RRP £3.00 100ml

Also available £1.00 30ml

Have you tried Primarks Reed Diffusers before? What scents have you tried/would like to try?

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AD| With Mother's Day just around the corner, instead of purchasing any gifts, why not opt for refreshing and restyling your Mother's bedroom to create something special?

Bedrooms can be such easy rooms to update quickly and affordably. Whatever their preferred home decor and interior style, the bedroom ultimately needs to be a calming and soothing setting, closed off from the busy outside world, for you to be able to relax and recharge after a long day. Decorating the bedroom doesn't have to be expensive or time-consuming, as there are a number of quick and easy options to help you give the ultimate cosy and refreshing atmosphere. Here are 6 affordable ways to refresh and restyle the bedroom for Mother's Day.

New Paint Colour

Paint is typically one of the most affordable ways to give your Mother's bedroom a whole new look for Mother's Day. By simply giving the bedroom walls a fresh coat of paint can instantly make it feel fresher, brighter and cleaner. Depending on your timescale, you can choose to completely give the entire room a refresh, or just touch up a feature wall in your Mother's favourite colour to make a bold statement.

Flowers and Greenery

Is it really Mother's Day if you don't pick up some flowers or plants as a gift? Springtime is the perfect opportunity to pick up some flowers, as at this time of year they are so vibrant and colourful, they are bound to put a smile on anyone's face. Adding plants to the bedroom will not only help add some colour, but they will also make a focal point. Whether you pick a beautiful fresh bunch of flowers to display on the bedside table, or any piece of greenery to place on the windowsill, it's bound to make a statement.

New Bedding Options

For the ultimate bedroom makeover for Mother's Day, why not opt for some new bedding options to make a cosy, comforting and luxurious statement in the bedroom, especially when you opt for brands like SIMBA. Whether you want to purchase a new mattress, a 3-in-1 duvet, blankets or throws, there are so many options to choose from depending on the bed size you have installed at home. Adding new bedding and accessories to the bedroom can completely change the vibe of the bedroom, and is a really simple way to change up the atmosphere.

Wall Art and Photographs

Wall art, prints, posters and framed photographs are a really special way of injecting some happiness, personality, and colour into the bedroom space. Wall art and photographs are such a special, sentimental gift that can really help relive old memories from the past.

Home Fragrances and Candles

There are so many benefits to using home fragrances in your personal space, you'd be amazed, and the use of candles is the perfect way to create a welcoming and calm atmosphere in the bedroom. Home fragrance options such as reed diffusers are a great option to consider as they are low-cost, long-lasting and typically come in such a variety of scents, there will definitely be something for everyone. For me, I would probably opt for either a calming/relaxing spa-like scent, something sweet and warming, or even a fresh and fruity fragrance to help fill the bedroom with a strong aroma.

When it comes to candles, again, there are so many options. Candles are a long-lasting option when it comes to filling the room with scent, as they typically burn for numerous hours. As well as smelling great, many candles can be used as decorative accessories in the bedroom, making them a great 2 in 1 gift for Mother's Day.

Lighting

The use of lighting in the bedroom is an easy way to help create a calming and relaxing ambiance. A really affordable way of incorporating soft, subtle lighting in the bedroom is an option for some fairy lights. LED fairy lights are a great option as they do not produce increased heat, they are cool to the touch, and are extremely eco-friendly, so there are simply no risks with using, and they are completely safe to have in the bedroom.

What other ways can you refresh and restyle the bedroom for Mother's Day? What are your affordable home decor ideas?

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When it comes to beauty, where some people may collect lipsticks or nail polishes, my weakness is definitely perfumes and fragrances. I love trying new scents and seeing how certain smells combine together to make perfumes. My taste in perfumes can differ quite a lot, sometimes due to the time of the year, the weather, if its for a special occasion or even just how I feel on that particular day. My current favourites are Reb'l Fleur by Rihanna, YSL Black Opium and Nicki Minaj MINAJESTY. All of which are completely different scents, but all which I really love, and will continue to repurchase in the future for my perfume stash. To add to this stash, I have quite the list of perfumes that are on my to-try list, but after thinking over them all for a while, I thought that would be way too many! So in the end, I opted for my top 8, that I wish to purchase over the next few months.

ARI by Ariana Grande
"ARI by Ariana Grande is a genuine and intimate statement by Grande through scent, embodying her unique character and style. Hints of unexpected playfulness appear throughout the fragrance story, reminding fans to embrace their flaws and celebrate their differences Playful, timeless and confident, the luscious new fragrance – a Floral Fruity Gourmand - opens with sparkling fruits and an ultra-feminine floralcy, passionately spun with musks, woods, and an addictive hint of marshmallow."

GOLD MAGIC by Little Mix
"Confident, enchanting, energetic and united, words that are inherently linked to the inspirational girl band Little Mix and their intriguing new debut fragrance GOLD MAGIC. The fragrance itself delivers against the bands strong desire to create a scent that never stops surprising the senses. Opening with a burst of playful hints of fruit, the captivating powdery velvet heart, pretty violet tones and more aqueous watermelon are both refreshing and sophisticated. The base is musky and warm but also sweet and hypnotic."

Paco Rabanne Olympēa
"Her fragrance is a unique olfactory adventure, at the crossroads between the sensuality of salty vanilla accord and the freshness of floral notes. A fresh oriental fragrance whose balance of the accords forms a genuine Paco Rabanne signature. The green mandarin, boosted by the floral and aquatic essences of ginger lily and hydroponic jasmine, awakens the senses. The sensual and luminous salty vanilla accord brings carnal and addictive magnetism. The cashmere wood and Ambergris accord magnify the fragrance and form a divine and powerful trail."

Pinkprint by Nicki Minaj
"Bold. Brilliant. PINK A stunning new fragrance statement that reflects Nicki's bold personality and celebrates her brilliance and evolution as an artist. With top notes of Bergamot, Grapefruit and Pink Passionfruit"

Stormflower Noir by Cheryl
"StormFlower Noir EDP introduces a glamorous and charming addition to Cheryl’s collection. It captures the imagination with a tang of rhubarb, lively Mandarin and pear. The floral heart is rich and heady with voluptuous tuberose, orange blossom and a sprinkle of rose petals. The fragrance concludes with irresistible brown sugar, addictive musk and creamy sandalwood. The result is opulent beauty but with the understated simplicity of Cheryl’s approach to fragrance: classic, evocative and elemental."

Diesel Loverdose
"An addictive Floral and Oriental fragrance, with notes of Mandarin, Liquorice, Jasmine and Vanilla with a Gourmand base. Loverdose is the sexy & addictive fragrance from Diesel. It represents a woman who is sexy, playful and irresistible. She receives an overdose of love from those around her, but she wants more. She desires pleasure, adrenaline & passion."

ROGUE by Rihanna
"Capturing the mischievous nature that lies within every modern woman, ROGUE by Rihanna has a bold yet flirty composition. Top notes of flirty Lemon Blossom and Cyclamen are mixed with Bergamot and spiced with Pink Peppercorn. The aroma evolves with Jasmine, Rose and Muguet fused together with Juicy Plum and seductive"

Armani Diamonds Violet
"Diamonds Violet, a Fruity Floral Gourmand is a sweet and addictive eau de parfum. The delicious base notes of Praline, a smooth, tasty chocolate filling with hazelnut and almond tones define the base of this Gourmand fragrance. Diamonds Violet is presented in a striking, vibrant Violet bottle, which beautifully complements the Diamonds for women fragrance collection."

What are your favourite perfumes or fragrances? Which are on your current wishlist?
Have you tried any of the perfumes featured in today's post?

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AD - GIFTED | Putting together a stocking for your friends/girlfriend, your sisters or female relatives shouldn't be a hard task as there are endless possibilities as to what to include. As seen in my Men's Gift Guide for this year, I chose 5 items to include in that. However, for my Women's version, narrowing it down to 5 was simply impossible! So I've chosen 6 gifts that I think would make great stocking fillers for any woman in your life.

Gift 1 - Chocolate

The first stocking filler is obviously a box of chocolates. Who doesn't love receiving chocolate? Such a classic gift that is just an essential, there are so many varieties and flavours to choose from, but you can't go wrong with a box of Cadburys Buttons.

Gift 2 - Body Scrubs

Next up is a beauty product that is absolutely perfect for this time of year. Say goodbye to dry, winter skin, instead keep it super soft and silky with this gorgeous scrub. A yummy blend of oozy salted caramel and rich, nutty macadamia oil is the perfect combination for super soft skin.

Women's Stocking Fillers Gift Guide 2019

Gift 3 - Face Masks

Who doesn't love a good face mask? Dry skin? Oily skin? Dull skin? You name it, there is a face mask out there to help combat your skin worries, and have you glowing in no time. I picked up this 7th Heaven Assorted Face Mask 5 Pack, that comes with a great variety to test out, including mud, clay, peel-off and sauna masks.

Gift 4 - Reed Diffuser

Another stocking filler that would be great for anyone is a reed diffuser. They come in such an array of scents and fragrances, that there is definitely one to suit everyone. I picked up the Winter Spice from Primark Home, and it's the perfect scent to make your home smell cosy and Christmassy! An absolute steal at just £1.50.

Gift 5 - Lavera Body Care Duo*

If you don't receive some kind of bath or body care product in your stocking, is it really Christmas? I've picked out this gorgeous gift set from Lavera which includes a body wash and body lotion sweetly scented with organic plum and vanilla - the perfect festive scents!

Gift 6 - Christmas Jigsaw Puzzle

Isn't a jigsaw so nostalgic of Christmas? It's a great way to get everyone together, have fun and spend some quality time with your friends and family. I picked this Santa jigsaw up from The Works for just £3!

What stocking fillers are you giving the girls in your life this Christmas?

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Pursuing peace and tranquillity in contemporary society is paramount for nurturing optimal mental and physical health. One of the most effective ways to unwind and rejuvenate is by indulging in a spa and massage experience. While visiting a professional spa like Banya No.1 in Chiswick can offer unparalleled relaxation, it's only sometimes feasible. However, with a few simple tips and tricks, you can recreate the blissful ambience of a spa right in the comfort of your own home. Join us as we explore how to craft the perfect spa and massage experience that will leave you feeling refreshed and revitalised.

Setting the Scene
Creating the right ambience is crucial for a relaxing spa experience. Begin by setting the mood with soft lighting, calming music, and aromatic scents. Adjust the illumination by dimming overhead lighting or employing candles to cultivate a cosy and welcoming ambience. Choose soothing music or nature sounds to help you unwind and release stress. Use oils or incense to fill the air with calming fragrances like lavender or eucalyptus.

Incorporating Heat Therapy
One of the signature features of Banya No.1 - Chiswick is its traditional Russian Banya experience, which involves alternating between hot and cold temperatures to stimulate circulation and detoxify the body. While replicating the whole Banya experience at home may not be feasible, you can still incorporate heat therapy into your spa session. Start by taking a warm shower or bath to relax your muscles and open up your pores. Then, use a heat pack or warm towels to apply gentle heat to areas of tension, such as the neck, shoulders, and lower back. The warmth will help soothe sore muscles and promote relaxation, enhancing the spa experience.

Prepare Your Space
Designate a quiet, clutter-free area in your home where you can fully relax and unwind. Whether it's a spare room, bedroom, or a cosy corner, ensure the space is clean, comfortable, and free from distractions. Lay out plush towels, robes, and cushions to enhance your comfort. Consider investing in a diffuser or humidifier to maintain optimal air quality and add moisture to the room.

DIY Spa Treatments
No spa experience is complete without indulging in luxurious treatments for your body and mind. Treat yourself to a DIY facial using natural honey, yoghurt, and avocado. Create a homemade body scrub with sugar or sea salt mixed with coconut or olive oil to exfoliate and soften your skin. Remember to pamper your tired feet with a soothing foot soak using Epsom salts and essential oils.

The Art of Massage
One of the highlights of any spa experience is a relaxing massage to melt away tension and promote relaxation. Enlist the help of a partner or invest in a high-quality massage tool to target areas of tension and tightness. Practice gentle, rhythmic strokes using a massage oil or lotion to glide smoothly over the skin. Focus on places like the neck, shoulders, back, and feet for maximum relaxation. Don't rush the process—take your time to fully unwind and enjoy the sensation of being pampered.

Nourishing Refreshments
The spectrum of relaxation encompasses more than just massages and spa sessions; it encompasses indulgent refreshments that harmonise with the holistic ambience, enhancing the overall experience. Emulate this aspect of the experience by preparing light and refreshing snacks or beverages to enjoy during your home spa session. Opt for hydrating options such as infused water with cucumber and mint or herbal teas known for their calming properties, like chamomile or lemon balm. Alternatively, treat yourself to fresh fruits, nuts, and cheese to indulge your senses while nourishing your body. Savouring these treats amidst your spa experience adds an extra layer of indulgence and ensures you feel refreshed from the inside out.

Digital Detox
In today's hyper-connected world, constant notifications and digital distractions make it easy to become overwhelmed. Take a cue from the serene atmosphere of Banya No.1 - Chiswick by incorporating a digital detox into your home spa experience. Before beginning your relaxation session, power down your electronic devices or place them in a separate room to create a sacred space free from technological intrusions. Disconnecting from screens allows you to fully immerse yourself in the present moment, fostering a more profound sense of relaxation and mindfulness. Use this opportunity to reconnect with yourself and your surroundings, savouring the simple pleasures of solitude and stillness.

Creating a relaxing spa and massage experience at home is easier than you think with some planning and creativity. By setting the right ambience, preparing your space, indulging in DIY spa treatments, and mastering the art of massage, you can enjoy all the benefits of a professional spa right in the comfort of your home. So why not treat yourself to some well-deserved relaxation today? With Banya No.1 in Chiswick as your inspiration, you'll be on your way to a blissful state of mind in no time.

Following these simple tips, you can transform your home into a sanctuary of relaxation and rejuvenation. With a little effort and creativity, you'll be able to enjoy the benefits of a spa and massage experience whenever you need a break from the stresses of daily life. So go ahead, pamper yourself and discover the transformative power of self-care

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AD - GIFTED | When it comes to bath bombs, you've probably been purchasing from the likes of LUSH and Bombs Away Cosmetics... But have you heard of Suezbana?? If the answer is no, keep reading!

Suezbana is a brand of Total Beauty Ltd, specialising in crafting natural handmade beauty products from scratch. A brand with A LOT to offer; from body lotions, showers gels, shaving soaps, creams, body butters, hair products, mineral makeup, aluminium free deodorant and home fragrances, there is so much variety, you'll be spoilt for choice.

I was kindly gifted the Suezbana Bath Bomb Gift Sets Series 2*. There are 6 Large Bath Bombs included, packed with added Essential Oils and Coconut milk. As soon as I opened the box I was blown away by the mixture of scents and the bold, beautiful colours. With a wide range of unique scents from floral to fruity, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Included in the Suezbana Bath Bomb Gift Sets Series 2 are the following bath bombs;

Violet - a fresh and floral Lavender based bath bomb with a deep, rich purple colour. The perfect, dreamy scent for relaxation and pampering, followed by a good night's sleep. 10/10 from me!

Ella - bursting with fluorescent pink and green colours, this scented bath bomb has subtle hints of florals and Watermelon, a perfect summer bath bomb scent. Personally for me, this bath bomb could do with a stronger Watermelon scent that would make it even better.

Ava - If you're a lover of Raspberries, this one is for you! Packed with a super sweet punch, this bath bomb has it all; sweetness, sourness, freshness and fruitiness, it's one not to be missed.

Gracie - a bath bomb bursting with aromas of juicy fresh Peaches and exotic Papaya - it'll have you dreaming of sun, sea and sand as you are whisked way to a tropical paradise.

Lily - for me, this bath bomb didn't really have a distinct scent that I could pick out, but described on the box as Tantalising Pinacola, it would have creamy and coconut-esque aromas.

Lexi - a bath bomb with such a bright, bold and vibrant blue colour, it'll definitely turn your bath into a beautiful ocean! Packed with subtle hints of Blueberry and some fizzy sherbet; this bath bomb is like sweet heaven.

Have you heard of Suezbana before? What are your favourite scents for bath bombs?

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AD – GIFTED | With Mother's Day coming up, many people will be looking for the perfect gift for their mothers, and trying to find the best deals available for them. When it comes to gifting, you don't need to spend hundreds of pounds – it's always the thought that counts. Sometimes it can be difficult to choose your ideal gifts. Sometimes you want to think “outside the box” and decide something other than flowers and chocolates. If you're looking for a more unique gift, listed below are 4 affordable and luxury must-have gifts for Mother's Day to give you some much-needed inspiration.

For a real indulgent treat, a nice bottle of red wine could be exactly what you need for Mother's Day – not only does it taste great, but there are also numerous health benefits of red wine. From Independent Wines, I was kindly sent over the Massimago Conte Gastone - an 100% Organic and low-sulphite Amarone wine. This delicious wine has aromas of red cherry, rose, mint and cedar wood – sounds like a perfect combination! The best Amarone wines are famous for their intensely concentrated flavours of red berries and spices, high alcohol and medium to high tannins, and this wine is no exception.

If you're looking for some accessories for Mother's Day, why not opt for a simple and dainty piece of jewellery to add to her collection. From Wolf and Zephyr, I picked out the Turquoise Gemstone Necklace*, which I thought would be the perfect gift for Mother's Day. This simple necklace features a real turquoise encased in a delicate crown setting. This beautifully delicate gemstone necklace is the perfect gift with a deep, sentimental, and thoughtful meaning behind it.

“Known as the “master healer”, Turquoise is one of the oldest protection stones; protecting us from negative influences and promoting an optimistic attitude. Turquoise helps us to see that we are the creators of our own luck.”

For those looking for a more unique gift, or to expand your mother's current fragrance collection, The Perfume Experience Box* might be exactly what you require. This fragrance library offers a new and different way to discover and try a range of different perfumes, suitable for any time and occasion. All Pairfum London fragrances are natural and handmade, enriched with essential oils. As well as this, they are also vegan, cruelty-free, and eco-friendly, making them have such a positive impact on the environment.

Inside the tester box, you will receive 12 mini-sized bottles, which are perfect to stick in your handbag – giving you just the right amount of each to ensure you can try to test it enough. Each perfume bottle contains around 100 sprays – which is probably enough for 2 weeks wear. Inside the box, you also receive 50 paper strips to help you sample or share each perfume before you wear it. This will be such a practical gift for Mother's Day, as your mother can try some new scents and hopefully find one that she'll love.

If you're looking for something for the home, why not consider purchasing some wall art? Art makes a great gift as it can be so special and so personal to the recipient. You can choose pieces based on their preferences, home theme or colour palettes. Depending on your chosen style, there is a wide selection of art posters and prints to select from the Poster Store, that would be perfect for Mother's Day.

What are your plans for Mother's Day? What gifts will you be purchasing?

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AD| It’s very easy to get stuck in a style rut. You love your favourite jeans, you adore that old t-shirt and blouse, and as for that eyeshadow palette? Well, you’ve been using it for years! Before you know it, you realise that your look hasn’t altered for a decade or so – which means it’s definitely time for a change. You don’t have to do a dramatic image overhaul. Sometimes, just incorporating a hint of the unexpected into your style can make a big difference. Here are some tips to help you.

Accessorise with a scarf

The humble scarf has the ability to transform an outfit. Tie it around your neck to make your favourite blouse look instantly retro-cool. Wrap it around your head as a great alternative to a hat. They’re even good for tying around your wrist as a fabric bracelet. Try layering two to create added interest.

Get your lash on

Not a fan of mascara? Try using some false eyelashes instead. For a sixties vibe, go for thick, black lashes; or if you’d prefer a more subtle look, choose dark brown, thinner lashes. A good pair of false eyelashes completely open up the eyes, creating much more drama and sex-appeal.

Change your jewellery

Do you normally stick with delicate silver jewellery? If so, go for something bold and ethnic-inspired; such as a leather choker or fabric pendant. Alternatively, if you normally wear big statement pieces, try something petite and pretty for a change, or even some antique jewellery!

Get textural with your nails

Nail polish turns your hands into instant focal points. Rather than settling for just a pop of colour, choose some nail polish with texture, such as a glittery or crackle finish. If you’re feeling artistic, stick some cute nail stickers on too.

Go for a different cut (of jeans)

If you live in your skinny jeans, now might be the time to switch them up for something different. Try a slouchy boyfriend cut or a 70s flare. They’re ultra on-trend and breathe instant life into your wardrobe. You can also experiment with colour too – for example, if you usually stick to pale denim, go for navy blue or black.

Change your fragrance

If you’ve been wearing the same scent for years, now is the time to try a new one. Choose something that’s totally different to your usual fragrance. If you normally go for a floral scent, try out something fruity or musky. Masculine fragrances are also ideal – not to mention distinctive. Sauvage perfume is a great example.

Invest in new lip colour

Okay, so beige or nude lipstick feels nice and safe, and it’s suitable for work – hooray! But now might be the time to choose a few others shades too. A deep ruby red is perfect for going out in the evening, or if you want to get in a springtime mood, choose a burnt orange or pillar-box red.

Get experimental! You can have a lot of fun playing around with your look – and often, you’ll find long-forgotten clothing or cosmetics in your wardrobe, just waiting to be rediscovered. Get experimental and enjoy.

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There’s something about a cosy home that makes you want to stay in, make a cup of tea and forget about everything else for a while. The good news? You don't need to completely redecorate your home or spend hundreds of pounds to create that feeling. A few small changes can make a surprisingly big difference.

Here are some of my favourite ways to make your home feel warmer, calmer and more inviting — without blowing your budget.

1. Change the Lighting
Lighting can completely change the atmosphere of a room.

Instead of relying on one bright ceiling light, try adding a couple of smaller lamps around the room. Warm-toned bulbs can also make a space feel much softer and more relaxing. You don't need five different lamps, either. Even one small lamp beside the sofa or on a bedside table can make a difference. Cosy doesn't have to mean dark — it just means softer.

2. Add Blankets and Cushions
This is probably one of the easiest ways to make a room feel more comfortable.

Throw a blanket over the sofa, add a couple of cushions to your bed or favourite chair, and suddenly the room feels much more inviting. You don't even have to buy new ones. Rearranging cushions and blankets you already own can give a room a slightly different feel. If you do want something new, look for inexpensive options in neutral or warm colours so they work with what you already have.

3. Declutter the Surfaces
This one costs absolutely nothing.

A room can feel uncomfortable simply because there is too much stuff everywhere. You don't need to become a minimalist. Just clear the coffee table, tidy the kitchen surfaces and put away the things that have accumulated during the week. A clean, uncluttered space instantly feels calmer.

4. Bring in Some Greenery
Plants make a room feel more alive.

If you're not particularly good at keeping plants alive, don't worry. Choose low-maintenance varieties or even use a few good-quality artificial plants. You can also bring in flowers from the supermarket when they're on offer. You don't need a huge bouquet — a small bunch in a simple vase can make a room feel completely different.

5. Make Your Bed Feel Like a Hotel Bed
You don't need expensive bedding to do this.

Make your bed properly, add a couple of pillows, fold a blanket across the bottom and keep the colours relatively simple. It sounds basic, but getting into a nicely made bed at the end of the day makes your bedroom feel much more luxurious. And unlike buying a new bed, it costs nothing.

6. Use Candles — but don't overdo it
Candles are an easy way to create a cosy atmosphere, especially in the evening.

You don't need an entire collection. One or two candles in the living room or bathroom can be enough. If you're trying to save money, look for inexpensive candles or use a wax warmer or diffuser instead. The goal isn't to make your home smell like ten different things at once. Pick one scent you genuinely enjoy.

7. Create a Cosy Corner
You don't need a huge house to have a cosy space.

Find one small area — perhaps a corner of the sofa, an armchair or a spot beside a window — and make it your little escape. Add a blanket, a lamp, a book and your favourite drink. It becomes somewhere you can go when you want to read, watch something, journal or simply do absolutely nothing.

8. Make your Home Smell Good
A home that smells fresh automatically feels more inviting.

Open the windows regularly, wash soft furnishings when needed and keep the kitchen and bins clean. Then add whatever scent you enjoy — home fragrances like candles, reed diffusers, room sprays or even fresh flowers. Sometimes the simplest changes have the biggest impact.

9. Rearrange your Furniture
Before buying anything new, try moving things around.

Move the sofa slightly, change where you keep your side table or rearrange the decorations on your shelves. You might discover that your room works much better than you thought. And the best part? It costs £0.

10. Give Yourself Somewhere to Switch Off
Ultimately, a cosy home isn't really about how it looks.

It's about how it makes you feel. Put your phone away for an hour. Make your favourite drink. Put on comfortable clothes. Turn down the lights. Watch a film, read a book or listen to music. You don't need expensive furniture or a Pinterest-perfect home to create a space you genuinely enjoy being in.

The Bottom Line
Making your home cosy doesn't have to mean spending a fortune.

Start with what you already have. Tidy up, change the lighting, add some texture, rearrange the furniture and create a little space that feels like yours. Then, if you have some money left over, add things slowly rather than buying everything at once.

Sometimes £20 spent thoughtfully can make a bigger difference than £200 spent impulsively. And honestly, the cosiest homes aren't necessarily the most expensive ones. They're the ones that feel lived in, comfortable and completely your own.

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It's been a while since I've published a Wishlist styled blog post, and right now there are some amazing beauty products that I want to get my hands on. My last Wishlist was from way back in December, so I thought it was about right that I post one asap!

First up is the Botanical Lab Rose Overnight Hydrating Mask. I think this mask will be a great skincare staple for the colder weather we have right now. This Hydrating Mask states it will help plump up your skin helping leaving it hydrated and smooth - a must have for winter skincare! Infused with a blend of Rose flower oil and hyaluronic acid it should help to deeply hydrate thirsty skin. A must buy for happy, hydrated skin this winter!

I've mentioned products from the Dream Lengths range before on my blog, and they have become a staple in my haircare routine. Recently, I've noticed something new to this amazing range - Rapid Reviver Treatment for Dream Lengths. This promises to be an intense conditioning product infused with an Amino Acid and Castor Oil. It also claims to contain twice as many conditioning ingredients versus a classic conditioner - goodbye dry and broken hair - hello healthy and strong hair!

Revolution Skincare Superfruit Extract Antioxidant Serum has been hot on my radar for a very long time since I tried out one of their skincare products before and LOVED it. This product would be the perfect base for healthy, glowy skin, with or without makeup. It looks to be quite a lightweight serum and primer which will hopefully leave skin feeling soft, while subtle iridescent shimmer creates unbeatable glow. Perfect for getting that summer skin in the cold months.

Korean skincare seems to be all the hype these days and skincare brand Simple have released their Daily Skin Detox Charcoal Cleansing Stick which seems very innovative and interesting to me. The concept of the product was what really drew me in as it is formulated to deeply cleanse and purifies pores with just one swipe!

Dry, chapped lips be gone! I need to get my hands on the e.l.f. Lip Exfoliator. The Coconut formula is what I want to try. I love all things coconut. I've used the normal version of this before in the past and it definitely works well. Gently exfoliating the lips to remove dry, chapped skin, due to being infused with Vitamin E, Shea Butter, Avocado, Grape and Jojoba Oils to nourish and protect. A definite makeup bag essential!

If you've read my blog before, you will already know that I'm a huge lover of Primark Fragrances. I've tried both the PS Rose Gold and PS Love Noir and found them to be incredibly good. Primark have recently announced a new fragrance collection inspired by holiday destinations. I'm totally crushing over Ibiza Escape (with watermelon, pear, Tiaré flower, toffee and white musk) and L.A Dreaming (with bergamot, lime, pink pepper, neroli, blueberries, orchid and musk). At just £3.00 each for a 50ml, this is such an incredible price, and I know from my previous experiences that they are bound to be great!

What beauty products are on your current wishlist? Have you tried any from mine?

09:00 No comments

In all honestly, I am the biggest perfume lover ever! I just can't get enough! I adore all kinds of scents, I like quite sweet, musky and deep fragrances and find it really hard to choose new ones, which is a pain when I have so many on my current wishlist! But one fragrance that I have been lusting over for a number of months is the YSL Black Opium. Previously, I had never smelt Black Opium, but with so much praise and hype from bloggers and after reading great reviews, it was something that I had been wanting to try for a while. I mean, the scent combinations just sound perfect for my fragrance tastes.

"Discover Black Opium, the feminine fragrance by Yves Saint Laurent – new glam rock fragrance full of mystery and energy. An addictive gourmand floral with notes of: Black Coffee – for a shot of adrenaline; White Florals – to instantly seduce; and Vanilla – for sweetness and sensuality. WHAT’S STOPPING YOU?"

Top notes: Pink pepper, Orange blossom

Heart notes: Jasmine, Coffee

Base notes: Vanilla, Patchouli, Cedarwood

Since ordering this perfume, I have just fallen in love with it every single time I wear it. It's become my go-to fragrance in day to day life. The bottle alone is just gorgeous. Black and sparkly, what more could you want? The scent is gorgeous. I mean what's not to love? I think it's the perfect perfume for special occasions and nights out as it holds such a deep, musky, sexy scent that I really love at this time of year. I've found that this perfume is long-wearing and lingers on the skin all day, which is brilliant as I hate having to carry the perfume around with me for top ups.

Every single time I've worn it, I received handfuls of compliments and people asking what I have on. It may be a more expensive perfume than I am used to getting but to me it is well worth every penny and most definitely a luxury treat, something I know I would definitely repurchase! I'm just upset I only purchased a 30ml bottle because it's something I could wear everyday, but it would be a great travel size perfume!

Have you tried Black Opium before? What are your winter fragrance favourites?
Leave me your recommendations!

22:00 No comments

With 2018 being the year that I finally start taking skincare seriously, the La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo+ is a product that I decided to get my hands on. My skin can be pretty temperamental, some days its good, some days it bad, but that's life I guess. I would say my skin is fairly normal, with the odd dry and oily patches, nothing too drastic, but a harsh winter has made it enough for me to notice in day to day life. The Effaclar Duo+, "a dual action gel moisturiser for every day that minimises the appearance of spots and blackheads, controls shine and helps protect the skin" and claims to be "A blemish treatment that corrects and hydrates skin for clearer skin in 4 weeks". I've been using the Effaclar Duo+ for around 1 month, I purchased just after Christmas, and have slowly been introducing it into my skincare routine. As a first impressions, my skin definitely has been more matte and less shiny, which is the biggest improvement I have noticed since using this gem from La Roche-Posay.

Hugo Boss The Scent for Her - a new fragrance to add to my never ending perfume collection! I received this perfume for Christmas, I had never tried any fragrances from Hugo Boss previously, since having this one, I have fallen in love with it. It's a very fresh and fruity, bursting with a peachy aroma but with a slightly floral scent that would be a perfect Spring or Summer fragrance.

Whilst learning to drive with Wimbledon Driving School, I downloaded the DVSA Theory Test App to help me with revising for my Theory Test, as well as allowing me to take mock tests and practice the Hazard Perception side to the Theory Test. The app itself is very easy to use, you have a choice of launching the Theory or Hazard Perception programme within the app, with the Theory side allowing you to study and practice each topic, as well as taking mock tests with the 50 questions to answer. I have been finding it very useful in helping me to revise and practice for my upcoming test, and would definitely recommend the app to anyone revising for a Theory Test or even someone who is wanting to learn to drive, this app would be something to look out for!

Marsh and Mallow bars are something new that I have recently discovered when visiting my local Starbucks. I saw these sat in front of the tills and decided to grab a couple in Raspberry and Vanilla flavours, and was very pleasantly surprised with these, they are super tasty and a great snack for on the go! I would recommend you stock up on these on your next trip to Starbucks and keep one in your handbag when you're feeling a little hungry.

A favourite, holy grail make up product of mine has been the Rimmel Lash Accelerator Mascara. I've repurchased this over and over again as this has become a mascara that I know will work for my lashes. This mascara has a plastic brush with thin, small bristles that reach, grab and separate every lash, creating dramatic length without being clumpy, as well as being very black in colour. The mascara is also very buildable, applying one or more coats depending if you want more of a natural or dramatic look to the lashes. I also use this mascara on my bottom lashes, to create length to the lashes and definition to my eyes. Usually priced at £7.99, very affordable and very easy to get hold of in Superdrug or Boots, if you haven't tried this mascara from Rimmel, I would definitely advise you to give it a go.

Lastly for my January favourites, a high-end fragrance of mine that I have loved ever since I ordered my first bottle; YSL Black Opium. I think it's the perfect perfume for special occasions and nights out as it holds such a deep, musky, sexy scent that I really love at this time of year. I've found that this perfume is long-wearing and lingers on the skin all day, which is brilliant as I hate having to carry the perfume around with me for top ups. Every single time I wear it, I get numerous compliments, people asking what I'm wearing or just generally saying I smell nice. If you're after a new perfume or just want to treat yourself to something extra special, Black Opium is the one for you.

What have been your favourite things recently?

17:26 No comments

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