To celebrate the Virgin Media British Academy Television Awards tonight, we’re giving you the chance to win the ultimate BAFTA-nominee experience courtesy of BAFTA’s TV Awards Partners.
Enjoy the VIP treatment with a one night stay for two at Sea Containers hotel in London. You and a guest will be treated to dinner in style over-looking the river Thames in the Sea Containers Restaurant.
You’ll also enjoy Champagne Taittinger chilled in room on arrival, a selection of KIKO Milano make-up waiting for you, and gifts from Villa Maria Wines and San Pellegrino to take home. Head to our Instagram page to enter.
The #VirginMediaBAFTAs are on BBC One at 7pm tonight. To find out who is nominated and in with a chance of a BAFTA win this week head to www.bafta.org/television/awards
Sea Containers London T&CS
Winner prize
Room at Sea Containers London for 1 night for 2 guests.
Available to redeem for 12 months from prize drawn. Not valid in conjunction with other offers.
Not transferable. Subject to availability. Not valid on New Year’s Eve.
Dinner at Sea Containers restaurant, valid for two guests including 3-course meal and a bottle of wine for up to £200.
Not valid in conjunction with other offers. Not transferable. Subject to availability. Not valid on New Year’s Eve.
3x runner up prizes
3x 100£ voucher for lunch for two guests at Sea Containers Restaurant.
Valid for 6 months, valid Monday – Friday only, not valid on Bank Holidays.
Not valid in conjunction with other offers. Not transferable. Subject to availability. Not valid on New Year’s Eve.
The two women were rumoured to have fallen out for several reasons, with the most reported being Meghan allegedly ‘making Kate cry’ during Princess Charlotte’s bridesmaid dress fitting, her decision to relocate to Frogmore Cottage instead of becoming Kate and Wills’ neighbours, and reportedly Meghan’s treatment of her staff.
And while it has since been reported that the highly publicised feud was actually more to do with the Dukes than the Duchesses, new royal book Finding Freedom alleges that there was some truth to the rumours.
The new royal biography alleges (according to The Sunday Times), that the Duchess of Cambridge didn’t go out of her way to welcome Meghan.
‘Though it was not necessarily her responsibility, Kate did little to bridge the divide,’ authors Omid Scobie and Carolyn Durand wrote in their new release. They went on to add that while the two women ‘were not at war with each other’, they ‘struggled to move past distant politeness’. In fact they reportedly had little in common ‘other than the fact that they lived at Kensington Palace.’
The book alleges that there was one particularly ‘awkward’ incident, where both Duchesses found themselves leaving Kensington Palace at the same time to go shopping on the same street.
According to the biography, Kate left Meghan to shop by herself, driving in a different direction in her Range Rover.
The book also alleges that Kate Middleton tried to iron out tensions by sending her sister-in-law some flowers, but it was apparently too late.
According to a report by Vanity Fair, Kate sent Meghan some flowers as a peace offering amid the media speculation about their feud, but Meghan ‘told Kate in no uncertain terms that flowers were not enough.’
The royal family has not yet responded to speculation.
There are so many dating trends out there – ghosting, cushioning, zombieing to name a few – but there’s a new term on the block: iso-mating.
Yes, it sounds a little odd, but stay with us.
Dating app OkCupid reveals that British singletons are looking for relationships with deeper connections as a result of lockdown, with a 22% decrease in daters looking for ‘hook-ups’.
Coining the term ‘iso-mating’, the app describes it as actively finding someone using their matchmaking services while still being in isolation, identifying that people are not just looking for romantic relationships – they’re looking for companions and friends, too.
Here are some dating tips from Melissa Hobley, CMO and dating expert at OkCupid, if you’re looking for an ‘iso-mate’:
Don’t be afraid to spark up a conversation about…anything!
COVID is a universal icebreaker right now. The best way to find your iso-mate is to get to the core of who they are, what they like, and their interests and dislikes. An emotional connection can indeed grow from a good conversation, so make it a habit to keep the conversation fluid and meaningful.
Extend the lines of communication
If you’re feeling fatigued by Zoom or FaceTime, then change it up by texting, having phone calls, or even communicating through memes. If you’re both into the written word, ignite your inner wordsmith and send each other love letters.
Check their profiles and update yours regularly
Someone’s dating profile is a great place to search for commonalities and conversation starters. Make sure you’re also updating your profile regularly to reflect your true current state. Just learnt a new skill in iso? Pop it on your profile! Discovered a newfound passion for the environment? Add a badge! Just gave yourself a haircut (and like it)? Upload a new pic! This will help others discover new and interesting things about you, and vice versa.
Get to know each other through activities
While a good conversation can do wonders for your relationship, sometimes the best way to get to know someone, or find your iso-mate, is by doing an activity together. From virtual movie marathons, to jigsaw puzzles, charades, cooking classes and so much more—your iso-dates can be anything, and there’s probably already an app for it.
Don’t be disheartened if it doesn’t work out
Sometimes the best things are found when you’re not looking for them. If you’ve found someone fantastic, but they’re maybe not ‘the one’ or there isn’t a romantic connection, then that’s totally ok too. You’ve still found an iso-mate which could potentially flourish into a life-long friendship.
This was revealed in an extract of their much-talked about unauthorised biography by royal correspondents and authors Omid Scobie and Carolyn Durand, named Finding Freedom.
According to the book, the couple actually got engaged in August 2017, before announcing it to the world in November 2017.
Now royal fans are saying that an outfit she wore at the Invictus Games in Toronto in September of that year might have been a hint, though it’s admittedly a little far fetched.
She attended the games with Harry, and wore one of her signature white shirt and jeans outfit. The white shirt was by her designer friend Misha Nonoo, and is one of her best-selling styles.
It also happens to be called ‘the husband’ shirt, which is why fans are saying it was a subtle hint at their engagement.
Of course this could all be a coincidence, but given that Meghan likes to wear piece of jewellery with a special significance, it may also be a sign.
The Cambridges have been busy during the coronavirus lockdown, delivering food parcels to the vulnerable, video calling pensioners to play a game of virtual bingo and writing letters to their charities to show their support during these difficult times.
William and Kate have also been homeschooling their three children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis, and while they’ve been having fun making spider sandwiches they’ve also been ensuring that their little ones are doing their homework.
However, now that the summer is here, the family decided to head off on a staycation in order to ‘support the travel industry’ according to an insider, choosing to stay in the UK as European quarantine rules may affect their work.
As lockdown restrictions ease and travel bans are slowly lifted, many are packing their suitcases and enjoying a break, and it seems that includes the Cambridges, too.
William and Kate have reportedly jet off to the Isles of Scilly, a place which is dear to the Duke’s heart. Not only did he enjoy holidays there as a child alongside his brother, Prince Harry, and his parents, Prince Charles and Princess Diana, he also visited with Kate in 2016.
Locals spotted the family as the cycled across the island of Tresco, and one onlooker said: ‘William and Kate were riding their bicycles, having a laugh. They looked so happy enjoying the weather.
‘I did do a double take. They were really friendly and said hello.’
A source said to the Mirror: ‘They decided on a quick getaway before the children return to school. They were keen to support our travel industry.’
Melania Trump is one of the most talked-about people in the world, and from her controversial fashion choices to her rules within the White House walls, she never fails to make viral news.
Unsurprisingly, the past few weeks have been no exception.
It wasn’t her holiday plans or controversially sloganed jackets that made news this week however. Instead it was a tone deaf announcement by the First Lady that angered the internet.
As the world remains gripped by the coronavirus pandemic, Melania Trump has announced a new project – the renovation of the White House Rose Garden.
Even in the most difficult times, the @WhiteHouse Rose Garden has stood as a symbol of strength & continuity. Today, it is my pleasure to announce our plans to renew & restore this iconic space so that we preserve its history & beauty for generations to come.
The news proved to be immediately controversial, with users taking to Twitter to voice their concern at how the project will be funded, especially given the current economic problems.
‘Priorities for @FLOTUS!’, one user tweeted. ‘Spend more taxpayer money on a house that the rest of the county are going to have to fumigate once the Trumps are forcefully removed in 5 months!’
Another added: ‘Millions of Americans are in dire straits and @FLOTUS can’t find anything to do but revamp the Rose Garden which is code for funnelling taxpayer money to her friends.’
The criticism got so loud in fact, that Melania was compared to Marie Antoinette. In fact the last Queen of France’s name started trending on Twitter after the First Lady’s announcement.
‘I wonder if Marie Antoinette redid the gardens at Versailles when the revolution was brewing,’ one Twitter user wrote.
Another posted: ‘Marie Antoinette would TOTALLY nod her head to Melania trump’s tone-deaf aloofness if she still had a head.’
For the growing number of us with an interest in clean and natural beauty, navigating your way through the complex labelling and ingredients of many skincare brands can be a minefield. Not anymore. High-street favourite Holland & Barrett has just launched three new high-performing skincare ranges (Vitaskin, Q+A and Miaderma) that, as befits the wellness brand’s clean and conscious beauty ethos, aim to satisfy both your skincare requirements and your conscience. Mix and match or select from the one best suited to your needs in one easy shop. You’re welcome!
Vitaskin – Clean, green and powerful
Ethics and efficacy have long gone hand-in-hand at Holland & Barrett and its brand-new, first-ever clean and vegan skincare collection Vitaskin is no exception.
You’ll already be familiar with the skin-friendly power of vitamin A and vitamin C – those so-called wonder ingredients that have been cited to aid everything from brightening complexions to rejuvenating ageing skin. What better ingredients, then, to take centre stage.
Of course, no two people’s skin is ever exactly the same and navigating skincare labels can be notoriously tricky. Even the broad categories we’re used to – dry/oily/combination and the various permutations in between – do little more than offer a guide to pinpointing whether a product is right for you. Enter Q+A skincare.
The natural formulations in this UK-made, high-performing natural skincare range aren’t just ingredient-focused and cruelty-free, every product comes with an on-pack checklist outlining which skin types it’s suitable for and the specific benefit it aims to deliver. Q+A HTP Face & Neck Cream? It’s hydrating, skin-firming formula is suitable for all skin types. (Get in!) Combination skin prone to visible pores? That will be the pore-minimising Zinc PCA Facial Serum for you. (Normal skin types – you get to benefit from that one too.)
Miaderma – When skin is more than sensitive
For anyone who suffers from skin complaints such as eczema and psoriasis, the need to know and trust what’s in your skincare isn’t just about ethics (though they count too), it’s an imperative.
Miaderma’s gentle, moisturising formulas are specifically designed to target and soothe affected skin across a range of products for both general daily use (Miaderma Eczema Body Wash and the perfume-free Eczema Shampoo) and skin flare-ups (Miaderma Eczema Mask and Eczema Cream). And as luck would have it, the full range has just landed in Holland & Barrett too.
Get 25% off in-store, online and on the app until 25 August (T&Cs apply). Find out more at hollandandbarrett.com
This year Marie Claire is holding its first ever Skin Awards – a new initiative created to recognise and celebrate the very best skincare products on the market and champion the brands acting sustainably and ethically.
Members of the Marie Claire team will be joined by a panel of expert judges – think dermatologists, facialists, doctors, beauty experts and influencers – to decide on the best of the best in the world of skin.
With entries spanning the best cleansers, moisturisers, masks and more, the winners will be celebrated in a virtual ceremony in October. So, without further ado, let’s meet our judges for 2020…
Dr Anjali Mahto is one of the UK’s leading consultant dermatologists who has worked in both the UK public healthcare sector and private clinics. She is a Fellow of the Royal College of Physicians, member of the Royal Society of Medicine and a spokesperson for The British Skin Foundation. Anjali now practises in London’s Harley Street where she treats patients with diverse skin concerns, helping them to create clinically-informed solutions based on a holistic approach to quality skincare and lifestyle.
Anjali has a particular interest in acne and acne scarring, having experience with her own skin issues from a young age. She is a regular press contributor and widely recognised for her unique skincare ethos, which bridges the gap between traditional medical dermatology, beauty and cosmetic medicine – captured in her book The Skincare Bible.
Rose Gallagher
Make-up Artist, Beauty Writer and Host of Beauty From The Heart Podcast – @rosegallagher
She launched her podcast, Beauty from the Heart, back in 2019. Here, she speaks to some of her favourite people in the beauty industry and beyond about causes that make a positive difference. She creates make-up tutorials online and often shares her personal experiences of living with rosacea. Currently, she represents the beauty brand IT Cosmetics in the UK and Ireland as their brand ambassador.
SKNDOCTOR is one of the most innovative and exciting names on the beauty and cosmetics scene right now. Dr Ewoma combines her extensive medical knowledge with a refreshingly contemporary take on beautification. She’s won the hearts of hundreds of tastemakers and influencers around the country. Internationally, Dr Ewoma has worked with skincare brands; Glossier, Bioderma, Vichy, La Roche-Posay and Dr Dennis Gross.
Championed by the likes of Dazed, Vogue, i-D Magazine, the BBC and Refinery 29, Dr Ewoma is on the cusp of huge things – she’s organically created a unique position for herself and is set to totally dominate the millennial beauty and cosmetics market with her holistic, pioneering approach.
Ruth Crilly
Content Creator, Entrepreneur and Beauty Expert – @modelrecommends
Ruth Crilly, known to many as ‘A Model Recommends’, worked extensively as a fashion and beauty model before deciding to share her expert tips and tricks with the online masses. Her honest reviews, in-depth knowledge and witty writing style has garnered her a loyal following.
Most recently, she’s embarked on her biggest journey yet, motherhood. With her most recent child, Ted, she experienced the common night time loneliness that new mums have. This prompted Ruth to launch the app The Night Feed, which helps members connect with their peers and track their feeds. As well as her successful social platforms, Ruth, is the co-founder of the award-winning dry shampoo range, Colab.
A professional make-up artist and beauty expert with over 10 years industry experience, Adeola Gboyega has worked for big beauty brands such as Clarins, Bobbi Brown and Pat McGrath Labs to name but a few. Gboyega has become well known for her skin first approach to make-up, highlighting the importance of investing in great skincare to achieve make-up ready skin.
Creating tutorials online, Adeola educates on how to get her signature glow look and has built up a loyal following of glow-getters. Adeola says: ‘I am so excited to be part of the judging panel for the first Marie Claire Skin Awards!’
Emma Guns
Host of podcast The Emma Guns Show, Presenter and Writer – @emmaguns
Emma Guns is a broadcaster, presenter and writer with nearly 20 years’ experience in health and beauty. Her podcast, The Emma Guns Show, is the top-rated beauty podcast on Apple Podcasts, with nearly 1,000 5-star reviews and has over 8 million global downloads. The show covers topics including beauty, mental health, business, entrepreneurship, sexuality and more with guests including Elizabeth Hurley, Michelle Visage, Andy Puddicombe, Gretchen Rubin, Dr Andrew Weil among many others.
Caroline Barnes is one of the UKs most established and celebrated make-up artists. Known industry wide for her passion, skill and pure professionalism, both clients and brands adore working with her. Her reputation for approachable beauty has helped her establish an enviable roster of clients includuing Emma Watson, Kylie Minogue and Kelly Rowland, to name a few.
Caroline gets enormous satisfaction in creating beautiful, red carpet glamour and also in pushing creative boundaries for video and photo shoots. She has worked with many of the world’s most famous photographers to create beauty and fashion shoots for top publications and brands.
Commercially, Caroline is in demand as an expert ambassador by many major beauty brands, and has her own YouTube channel, Speed Beauty by Caroline Barnes, offering expert beauty advice which is getting deserved recognition. She also gives her time to beauty industry charity Look Good Feel Better, using her ‘midas touch’ to help restore confidence and wellbeing in women cancer sufferers.
Ruby Hammer MBE
Global Make-up Artist and Brand Creator – @rubyhammer
Global make-up artist, brand founder and beauty expert, Ruby Hammer MBE has over 25 years experience within the beauty industry. She has worked across everything from editorial and commercial shoots to haute couture catwalks and TV. In 2007, she was awarded an MBE for her long-standing contribution to the cosmetics industry. A pioneer in the movement towards inclusivity, Ruby focuses on emphasising and enhancing your natural features, teaching people to embrace their unique beauty.
Abigail James
International Facialist, Author and Skinfluencer – @abigailjames1
An award-winning skincare and wellbeing expert, with a clinic in Mayfair London, known for her extensive knowledge, facial massage and results-driven bespoke treatments, Abigail is referred to in the press as ‘The Queen of Skin’. With over 20 years hands-on experience as a therapist and many more qualifications under her belt, Abigail established herself as one of the most respected facialist within the UK, well loved by the press, her clients and loyal global social following.
Abigail published her first book, Love Your Skin, in 2018 alongside completing her yoga training. Abigail juggles her career as a facialist, brand consultant, influencer and YouTuber alongside being a mother of three.
Dr Tatiana Lapa
Medical Director of Dr Tatiana Aesthetic Dermatology Clinic – @dr_tatiana_clinic
Dr Tatiana is an Aesthetic Dermatology specialist with qualifications in Aerospace Medicine (BSc) and Aesthetic Medicine (MSc), and membership of the Royal College of General Practitioners. She established the Dr Tatiana Clinic in 2014, uniquely combining Artistry, Innovation and Excellence, to deliver tailored, cutting edge and effective aesthetic treatments that enhance beauty and wellbeing.
Dr Tatiana is an opinion-leader in aesthetics and her work is widely published in the press, including Marie Claire, Vogue, Tatler, Harper’s Bazaar and GQ. She has presented her work internationally and has been featured on a Channel 5 television series as a leading Aesthetic specialist.
Doctor Kemi Fabusiwa is a twenty-something doctor in the city who works on the front lines as medical doctor. With a passion for all things skincare and skin health, she directs the Joyful Skin Clinic which is an online platform dedicated to providing evidence-based skincare solutions for all skin types but with a particular focus on darker skin and inclusivity in the beauty industry. Dr. Fab keeps it real, making sure that she’s sharing the science behind her skin secrets so that happy, glowing skin can be a real possibility for all. This young doctor is making waves in the skincare world and is the one to watch this year.
With over 12 years experience in the beauty industry Michaella has gained a reputation as a ‘Master Facialist’ and tanning expert. Appearing regularly in leading international publications Glamour, Harper’s Bazaar, SheerLuxe, Vogue, Refinery29 and Violet Grey. She is the go-to person for many celebrities including Dame Helen Mirren, Naomie Harris, Olivia Munn, Noomi Rapace, Nick Grimshaw and Frankie Bridge, to name a few.
Michaella is known for creating a bespoke lift and glow facial treatment for each one of her clients. She continues to support social media education focusing on skincare and at-home facial massage routines.
Jamaican-born Sherrille Riley achieved iconic status as the definitive brow expert after her boutique salon Nails & Brows Mayfair quickly became the go-to beauty destination for A-list celebrities and royalty.
After two decades of hands-on work as a beautician in London’s most iconic luxury beauty salons, Riley decided to set up Nails & Brows Mayfair in 2014 – a destination boutique, providing first class service and expertise in two areas. Riley hand-picked her team of beauty experts, put them through her beauty boot-camp training, sharing her passion and knowledge for beauty.
Sherrille also developed Beauty Edit Mayfair, an inclusive collection of brow styling solutions expertly created to deliver immediate results and achieve flawless, natural brows.
Margo Marrone
Pharmacist, Homeopath, Entrepreneur and Co-founder of The Organic Pharmacy – @margomarrone
Growing up in pre-revolution Iran, Margo’s love of all things herbal began when she was very young, on shopping trips to the bazaar visiting the local apothecary. Having moved to London aged 11, Margo studied pharmacy at Kings College London which led to a specialisation in herbal medicine where her true calling lay.
After becoming pregnant with her daughter, her idea for The Organic Pharmacy was born when she struggled to find cleanly-formulated products. Since the first store opened in 2002, it’s now a trusted name worldwide, available in 36 countries across the globe, and has won legions of loyal fans and a cult celebrity following that includes the likes of Elle Macpherson, Katy Perry, Victoria Beckham and more.
Dr Ateh Jewel
Beauty Journalist and Diversity Advocate – @atehjewel
Dr Ateh Jewel is a multi award-winning journalist, producer, director, influencer and diversity advocate. She been in the industry for 19 years, specialising in beauty, social commentary and campaigning for more diversity in the beauty industry. She has written for titles such as Vogue, Sunday Times Style, Financial Times, Guardian, Telegraph and Marie Claire, is on the advisory board for the British Beauty Council, and is particularly interested in the history of beauty and its ability to reflect our cultural values.
Ateh has also made several appearances on Good Morning Britain with Piers Morgan, This Morning, BBC 5 Live with Nicky Campbell, LB Radio and BBC 2 with Vanessa Feltz. She also appears on panels, consulting, lecturing and judging for CEW, Creative Head, Stylist Live, P&G, Unilever and Coty.
Her award winning blog, jeweltonesbeauty,com, is aimed at men and women with darker skin tones and she is developing her own range of foundation and colour cosmetics for POC. She also hosts her own Instagram Live show Wednesday Chat Club, whose guests have included Ruby Hammer MBE, MAC’s Terry Barber and Nichola Joss.
Andrea has worked as a journalist for a range of publications including The Daily Mail, The Sunday Times, The Guardian, Channel 4, Glamour and Grazia, before joining Marie Claire. For much of her career, Andrea has specialised in investigative journalism and loves helping bring to light inspirational stories from people who traditionally have not been given a voice in mainstream media. At Marie Claire, Andrea oversaw a hard-hitting feature on rape as a weapon of war that won the title an Amnesty Media Award, and now acts as as a judge for the awards each year. She regularly chairs events for Marie Claire and mentors young women trying to break into the industry.
Holly has over 10 years journalism experience, working as an editor and writer, specialising in digital media, content strategy and dog breeds. Prior to Marie Claire, she has held senior staff positions at ELLE UK, Grazia and Company. Holly is a frequent speaker, panelist and interviewer on a range of subjects including media trends, careers and entertainment.
From working with Reuters to provide global red carpet coverage for events like the BAFTAs, to discussing fashion and beauty trends on network TV, she was also the host of the Marie Claire series ‘Holly’s First Dates’, where she regularly interviewed a mix of inspiring woman and A-list celebrities (including Jack Black, Dakota Fanning and Renée Zellweger) – a series which garnered half a million views in its first two months. And was approved by The Rock. When she isn’t dreaming of scheduling in meetings, she likes to think about social media, and how best to avoid it whilst still retaining the title of ‘digital’ editor.
An award-winning journalist and creative director, Lisa is one of the world’s top beauty editors. A well-respected stylist and art director, she shoots with the highest calibre of photographers, make-up artists, hair stylists, influencers and celebrities, creating timeless images and film. With 20 years of editorial experience in beauty, health and well-being Lisa is also a popular brand strategist, influencer, entrepreneur and public speaker, most recently talking for Cognition X.
Fiona is an award-winning beauty journalist with over 10 years’ experience writing and editing copy on both print and digital platforms; styling shoots and testing over 10,000 products. Prior to Marie Claire, she held senior staff positions at Cosmopolitan and Stylist. Fiona is a self-confessed ingredients geek and loves nothing more than jumping on the latest internet-breaking beauty news, dissecting the best red carpet looks and having the crème de la crème of dermatologists, make-up artists and hairstylists on speed dial so she can tap them for the best advice. She’s a discerning beauty shopper and knows it can be confusing trying to navigate what’s hype and what works. So if she really likes something, you can trust that she has reached that opinion by vetting it against everything else she’s ever tried.
With over 12 years of publishing experience, working on print publications and their digital counterparts, national newspapers and digital pure plays Sunil is an Editor, Strategist, Content Producer and Art Director that specialises in Fashion, Beauty and Grooming, Lifestyle and Culture.
As Marie Claire’s junior beauty editor, Lucy helps to oversee beauty content both on site and on social. She has also written for Cosmopolitan, Women’s Health, InStyle and Look. As well as trialling the latest and greatest products for online features, chatting to industry experts and creating IGTVs, she also interviews famous faces for the Beauty Bytes Q&A series, delving into celebrities make-up bags and beauty habits. When she’s not got beauty on the brain, you’ll probably find her spending time with dogs or reading a book. Or, sleeping.
Sarah Barnes
Junior Beauty Writer and Production Assistant – @sarahbarnsey
Combining her love of beauty and production, Sarah mixes between writing beauty content, reporting backstage at Fashion Week and working on Marie Claire’s various big beauty awards shows and video content. Sarah’s role allows her to travel around the world to produce photo shoots and assist with booking the best models and photographers, while shooting at sunset in the Lanzarote desert, on speedboats in Mauritius and along the wild beaches of Sri Lanka. Recent events have also led to a new 360 digital concept and Sarah has produced virtual beauty shoots which involve shooting stills and moving images globally, using only Zoom and an iPhone.
Stay tuned for all the latest updates on the Skin Awards from our judging panel and the winners.
Plus, the skincare product that's got Mollie getting her glow on this week...
What a week this has been! I mentioned before that I’ve been having work done at my flat and this has been the week of the final touches. The dust sheets have finally come up and it’s starting to feel like home again! It’s been amazing turning my Pinterest board into a reality in my London flat and such an exciting experience, but I’ve learned that I’m even more indecisive than I ever thought I was.
But would I do it all again? Of course I would! Will my builders ever give me the choice of the whole Farrow and Ball paint chart again? … Absolutely not! I hope this week has treated you well and you’ve had reasons to smile too. I’m back with more recommendations for having fun at home as we wave goodbye to July and dive into August!
Singles
This song has to be mentioned this week. It’s from one of my favourite bands who I’ve featured in my column before… Little Mix! I love how this band know their sound and understand what it is their fans want from them. I often feel as artists grow and develop they can sometimes, understandably, move on from what made them successful in the first place – but that can leave fans feeling confused and disappointed about a change in direction.
With these girls, though, I feel they really connect with their sound and, while growing and changing, they still stick to what it is that people love them for – great pop songs! This latest release, Holiday, has the big pop chorus we’ve wanted this summer, as well as hints of a sexy baseline. Almost Charlie Puth-esque, it’s a combination of powerhouse and soft vocals… so really there’s a part for everyone to sing along to.
There have been so many good releases recently, it’s been hard to narrow them down. An artist I’ve been introduced to is DJ and producer Young Franco from Brisbane, Australia. He released a track called Juice, alongside Pell, which is quite different to my usual recommendations, but what it does have is an instant uplifting feel to it.
Young Franco is the type of artist that doesn’t take himself too seriously and that’s one of the things that drew me in. Over lockdown he’s been keeping busy by uploading cooking videos, among other things, which are also worth checking out if you’re a pizza or pasta fan. (Who isn’t?!)
Albums
On the topic of keeping busy in those lockdown months, this next artist certainly has been productive – it makes my proud achievement of learning how to juggle look rather pathetic! The lady I’m talking about is of course Taylor Swift, who has recorded a whole new album, released last week, called Folklore. If like me you’re thinking ‘gosh, I didn’t see that one coming,’ don’t worry; you haven’t taken your finger off the pulse – this release even came as a surprise to her record label!
Unsurprisingly it’s already a huge success, with a fabulous stripped-back feel, while simultaneously returning to her country roots, including a collaboration with Bon Iver. I can’t mention this album without also talking about the merchandise Taylor released alongside it. With Cardigan being the name of her first single from this new album, she’s had her very own button-up piece of attire manufactured which, unlike most merch, looks stylish enough for Miss Swift to wear herself! Is there anything this woman can’t do?
TV series
With the success of shows like Queer Eye and Next in Fashion, it was only a matter of time before the BBC delighted us with their own fashion makeover show. I’m pleased to say that they have done just that with You Are What You Wear. Hosted by Rylan, who is the perfect mix of comedy and sincerity, members of the public have the chance to get a new wardrobe styled by one of a choice of five different stylists.
With elements of What Not To Wear, you see the contestant try on different looks – while the four stylists who weren’t chosen giving their running commentary on whether they agree with the outfit choices or not! Think Gogglebox meets Tattoo Fixers, but make it fashion. This show will have you smiling and itching to revamp your own wardrobe… It could be expensive viewing!
Self care
This week I tried out Estée Lauder’s Perfectionist Pro Serum. I had heard a lot of positive comments about it and thought, what with us being mid-summer, which always makes me scale back my make-up, it would be a good time to try out something new. This product is a serum aimed at brightening your skin and has the added bonus of vitamin C.
I’m still relatively new to the product but I’ve found that putting it on before my moisturiser in the morning really adds a glow – it’s definitely a product I can see becoming a regular in my wash bag! After all, who turns down that extra get up and glow?
Thanks so much for reading this week’s Mollie’s Feel-Good Feed – check back on Marie Claire every Friday for more of my feel-good recommendations. Stay safe, take care and enjoy!
There are over 40 countries on the list that are up for grabs for a bargain price, and all destinations have been approved for UK tourists without the need to quarantine when you return. If this changes at any point, they’ll offer you an alternative getaway.
So far, so good.
But it gets better. Countries include a number of European holidays, with their 2020 trips boasting a list featuring Ibiza and Italy, plus – wait for it – the Caribbean. Yes, really. You can get off to crystal clear waters and unreal beaches in the Bahamas or Barbados for an absolute steal.
The £99 holidays are to be taken between September 2020 and March 2021, or you could pay a little more for a longer timeframe, between August 2020 and July 2021, at £129.
Departing from London Gatwick, Stansted, Luton, Southend and Heathrow, you might find yourself in Paris, Venice or Rome, or Florence, Amsterdam and Monte Carlo.
Other spots include Croatia, Marseille and Lake Garda.
You’ll find out where you’re headed on 14th August, and the getaway includes between a two and seven night stay in a hotel or resort plus flights for £99 or £129.
Wowcher explains: ‘If you find yourself undecided where to send you and a loved one off to, now’s your chance to nab yourself a surprise voyage!
‘From Barbados to the Bahamas, Malta to Monte Carlo, our prizes feature over 40 different worldwide destinations, with once-in-a-lifetime beach holidays to culture-crammed city breaks.
‘Whatever stay you snag, we guarantee a holiday to remember will be awaiting you and your luggage, or your loved ones should you choose to gift this unforgettable voucher.
‘Buy now and before you know it, you could be riding Switzerland’s Bernina Express, shopping in Milan, or living it up in luxury along the French Riviera!’
@patrickwilson