The final weekend of Wimbledon 2026 is officially here. As the world prepares to watch tennis history unfold on Centre Court, there is no better time to browse The Wimbledon Shop and bring a piece of the tournament home.

Luxury British textile brand Christy has been the official towel provider to the All England Lawn Tennis Club since 1988, crafting the towels that are famously draped over the shoulders of tennis royalty. For 2026, their collection blends archive heritage with a burst of summer strawberries and forward-thinking sustainability.

Whether you're looking for a collectable souvenir, an activewear upgrade, or a piece of upcycled fashion, these are the nine best items to add to your cart before the final match point is served on Sunday.

Should you moisturise before a spray tan? It's one of those beauty questions that sounds simple, yet regularly trips people up – myself included.

Before one appointment, I meticulously prepped my skin, exfoliating in the shower before sealing everything in with a nourishing body lotion, convinced it would create the ideal canvas for an even glow. Instead, when I rinsed away the guide colour, there was barely any tan left beneath it.

As it turns out, my well-intentioned pre-tan routine was exactly the problem. "You should arrive at your appointment free of any product on the skin," says Michaella Bolder, celebrity facialist and tanning expert. "This includes your best body moisturiser, oils, deodorant, perfume or sprays." According to Bolder, these products can create a barrier that stops the tanning solution from developing evenly. Award-winning tanning artist James Harknett agrees, adding that "the only areas that should be moisturised are the naturally dry parts of the body."

So, if moisturiser is off the cards before a spray tan, how do you stop colour clinging to dry patches or fading unevenly? We asked the experts to explain exactly how to prep your skin before your appointment, which products to avoid and the small tweaks that will help your glow develop evenly and last for longer.

When should you moisturise before a spray tan?

"Moisturise in the days leading up to your spray tan to keep your skin in great condition, but on the day of your appointment, your skin should be completely free from moisturiser, deodorant and any other skincare products," says Harknett. "You shouldn't apply moisturiser all over your body before a spray tan, as it can create a barrier that prevents the tanning solution from developing evenly."

There is one important exception. If you regularly buy skincare for dry skin, or have areas prone to clinging onto colour, a small amount of lightweight, oil-free moisturiser can actually help create a more even finish. "The only areas that should be moisturised are the naturally dry parts of the body, such as the knees, elbows, heels, hands and feet," says Harknett. "These areas tend to be much drier than the rest of the body, so they absorb more tanning solution and can end up looking darker and patchy if they're left unprotected."

Bolder agrees, recommending an aloe vera-based lotion if your skin is particularly dry. "The tanning artist will then moisturise any dry areas with the correct formula and where they feel it is necessary."

How should you prepare your skin before a spray tan?

"Exfoliating and removing unwanted hair (be it waxing vs shaving) is best performed around 24 hours before a fresh tan to allow the skin to settle," says Bolder. She adds that freshly waxed or over-exfoliated skin can become irritated, making it difficult to achieve an even result.

On the day itself, less is more. Harknett recommends taking a cool shower beforehand to remove any lingering perspiration or product residue, ensuring your skin is completely clean and dry before your appointment. That means skipping deodorant, perfume and body lotion until after your tan has fully developed.

What products should you avoid before a spray tan?

“The biggest mistake is arriving with products still on the skin," says Harknett. “Anything left on the skin can act as a barrier and affect how evenly the tan develops.” Bolder says it's particularly important to avoid rich creams, body oils, shower oils and petroleum-based formulas, as well as products containing mineral oil or silicone, which can prevent the tanning solution from adhering properly.

It's also worth pausing active bodycare before your appointment. "Avoid any exfoliating products on the skin before applying a fresh layer of tan," says Bolder. "This includes retinoids and chemical exfoliants, as they disrupt the skin barrier and can create an uneven – or even invisible – tanning finish."

How do you make a spray tan last longer?

"Once the tan has fully developed and you've completed the first rinse, head straight in with a daily moisturiser," says Bolder. "It really is one of the best ways to prolong your tan. Hydrated and healthy skin sheds slower than dehydrated skin, so the tanned skin cells remain intact for longer."

Harknett explains that because spray tan develops within the outer layer of dead skin cells, keeping skin hydrated slows the natural shedding process, helping colour fade more gradually and evenly. He recommends opting for a lightweight, water-based lotion rather than an oil-based formula, as oils can break the tan down more quickly.

To keep your glow looking fresh, Bolder also recommends gently exfoliating with an oil-free exfoliator after around three days, encouraging the colour to fade evenly rather than becoming patchy.

Are your hydrangeas not faring so well in the extreme weather? Once wilting sets in, it's hard to put a stop to it, which is why it's so important to know how often your plant needs a little hydration.

As one of the best plants for wet gardens, hydrangeas are known for loving moist soil and regular watering. However, when the weather is consistently hot and dry, these beloved plants that are happiest in rainy conditions are often left looking rather sad and crispy.

This can be prevented with the right garden plant watering routine, especially if you tailor it to suit both your hydrangeas and the current climate. Here's some helpful, easy-to-follow advice from gardening and horticulture experts to give your plant the best chance of thriving all year round.

How often should you water hydrangeas?

When it comes to watering, plants can have very different needs. How often you should water your tomato plants will not be the same as how often your hydrangea needs watering.

"Hydrangeas like consistently moist soil, especially during warmer weather, because their large leaves and flowers lose water quickly," explains Dr Russell Sharp, Founder of Eutrema. "In heat like this, established hydrangeas may need watering every few days, and newly planted shrubs will usually need more frequent attention as their roots are still developing."

"Always check the soil before watering, and if the top few centimetres feel dry, it’s time to water your hydrangea. Plants growing in containers will usually need watering more often than those planted in the ground because pots dry out much faster," he adds.

"If you find your hydrangeas are wilting regularly, you are definitely not providing them with enough water. This will not only impact their health this year, but also the amount of flowers and growth they can put out next year," explains Dr Russell.

Having the appropriate essential garden tools can make watering much easier, and adding some mulch during summer can help your plants retain moisture for longer.

Should I water hydrangeas every day?

Given how much hydrangeas like moist soil, should you water your plants every day in hot weather? No. Even if you're preparing your garden for a heatwave, you don't have to worry about being outside every day watering your hydrangeas.

"If your hydrangeas have been growing in your garden borders for two years or more, then they will have been able to establish a sturdy root system, which means that even when there is no rainfall, you shouldn’t need to water them daily," says Lucie Bradley, garden expert at Easy Garden Irrigation.

"What is important is that you check the moisture in the soil – either using your finger and pushing it down into the ground to see how dry it is or using a moisture meter for a more precise reading - before deciding if you need to water or not," she continues.

Between sorting the garden out and trying new garden party ideas, it can be hard to find time to water every day, but it is important to keep an eye on your hydrangeas in hotter weather.

"This means that during heatwave conditions, you should be checking daily as your plants will be suffering from heat stress and the soil will be drying out quickly. Yonder hydrangeas will need watering more often, but it’s still important to check the moisture in the soil that surrounds them before deciding to water," Lucie continues. "You may need to water hydrangeas daily, even twice a day, under extremely hot, dry weather when they are growing in containers."

"With a restricted amount of soil to hold water, combined with the soil being warmer, especially if your pots are dark or non-porous, you are best to check hydrangeas in the morning and late afternoon to see how dry the soil is and water accordingly," Lucie recommends.

Can you overwater hydrangeas?

Overwatering your garden plants is a common summer gardening mistake, and one that can be incredibly damaging to your plants' health.

"Whilst hydrangeas are heavy drinkers and want consistently moist soil, what they don’t want is to be sitting in waterlogged soil, which can make them highly susceptible to fungal diseases and their roots rotting," says Lucie.

"This means you should always ensure that the soil they are planted in is well-draining - so if you have heavy clay soil before planting hydrangeas, you should always improve the structure by digging in garden compost, leaf mould or well-rotted manure to break up the soil and improve its drainage," she continues.

"Hydrangeas will show when they are being overwatered by wilting or drooping - unfortunately, they also do this when they are not receiving sufficient water. To check whether it’s overwatering or underwatering, inspect the foliage – when you are overwatering, the leaves will feel soft or mushy, whereas too little water means the leaves will be crispy and dry," Lucie instructs.

Again, this is why it's important to monitor your hydrangea plants, especially through intense heatwaves, as their health could change within a day.

What is the best way to water hydrangeas?

It might be surprising, but there are mistakes to make when watering your plants, especially in hot weather. So knowing what's best for each of your plants is absolutely key.

"When watering hydrangeas, you should be watering them deeply to encourage them to develop deeper root systems. It is best to water early in the morning, as this ensures that water can reach the roots of the plant before it evaporates in the midday sun. It also reduces the risk of fungal diseases, as these thrive in warm, wet conditions," explains Richard Barker, horticulture expert and Commercial Director at LBS Horticulture.

"Always water hydrangeas at the base of the plant instead of over the top. Watering the foliage and flowers instead of the soil can cause fungal diseases, and water droplets can act like a magnifying glass in the sun, potentially scorching the plant," he continues.

The last thing you want to be doing during summer is helping your plants recover from sunburn and scorching.

It's also important you know how to prune your hydrangeas throughout the seasons as this will allow you to not only control their growth but ensure you have some impressive blooms when the warm weather does arrive.

While bright sunshine and sorbet manicures are always a lovely choice for the sunny season, coconut cream nails take inspiration from the sweet, tropical fruit, delivering a wash of milky freshness and a chic, minimalistic finish that will go with everything.

It's safe to say that subtle looks, like pearl nails, have so far ruled this season's nail trends. Of course, that doesn't mean that juicy sorbet nails or sparkling ocean-like shades aren't still in, but we've definitely spotted a rise in softer, milky nail polishes - the sort that offers a very elegant and versatile look. The latest, in fact, takes this genre of sheer, elegant manicure to the next level, seeking to mirror a swirl of fresh coconut cream, dolloped over a chilled dessert or stirred into coffee. Coconut is, after all, a signature summer fruit, scent and flavour, so it only makes sense that it should inspire your next manicure too. To us, coconut cream nails are soft, versatile and ever-so-slightly warmer than your classic milky white manicure.

So, if you're a lover of very minimalistic nails and want a hue that feels timeless, easy to wear, but also bears a subtle nod to the summer season, here's how to recreate this creamy look - both at home and in the salon.

Why coconut cream nails are the chicest choice for a subtle summer mani

As mentioned, subtle and creamy nail looks have become incredibly popular this year, with new iterations popping up almost weekly. The latest comes with a very delicious-sounding name attached and a velvety freshness that really does mirror a splash of coconut cream.

As the name suggests, this look is very creamy indeed and personally, we think there are a few ways to interpret this chic trend. The first is, by just taking inspiration from coconut cream, in general, with a sheer and cream-coloured polish or by opting for a shade that has a hint of brown - to really capture the signature look of coconut, from its furry shell to its milky white innards. Think OPI's Tiramisu For Two polish, for instance. Both are very stylish options and definitely nail the milky brief.

Our coconut cream nail picks

Like a soapy, sheer pink manicure, this sort of look is so easy to recreate at home. All you need is a creamy polish of your choice and a clear, glossy top coat. We recommend applying two to three layers of cream (depending on the coverage you're looking for), followed by your top coat. We also suggest opting for a short nail length, as that will offer a very clean and neat finish.

And because of how popular these creamy shades have become, if you're heading to the salon for gels or BIAB nails instead, you'll have plenty of options to choose from. Plus, your nail artist might have already had plenty of requests for this look and so will be able to advise.

1. Short coconut cream nails

Creamy and chic, this manicure is exactly what we picture when we think of a coconutty look. The short length and softly rounded edge also add to the smooth and elegant effect, so we recommend following suit with your choice of nail style.

2. Sheer coconut cream nails

If you love a sheer nail polish, this delicately creamy colour is a lovely choice and again, looks so good and fresh on short nails.

3. Coconut cream French tips

For a subtle French tip, combine the classic design with this coconut cream concept.

4. Coconut milk nails

If you prefer a milky colour to a creamier one, opt instead for a coconut milk-inspired manicure. The soft colour always looks elegant and will easily complement your entire summer wardrobe. It's also a great choice if you've got an occasion, like a wedding, to attend this season.

5. Squoval coconut cream nails

To really double down on elegance, pair this sort of sheer, creamy coconut shade with slightly longer squoval nails. It feels chic, expensive and will definitely work for both everyday and a more formal occasion.

There’s no escaping talk of weight loss medication in 2026. ‘Skinny jabs’ as they’re commonly known are filling newspaper column inches on a weekly basis and, as of April, it was reported that at least 1.6 million people in the UK had tried GLP-1 injections in the last year. That number is only expected to rise - especially as, from this week, a capsule tablet GLP-1 has hit the market.

And yet the likes of Ozempic, Mounjaro and Wegovy are still considered “controversial” - but “they don’t need to be,” says former Apprentice and Loose Women star, Saira Khan.

In an exclusive interview with woman&home, the businesswoman, who left the TV industry in 2020 and now runs her company SAIRA Skin full-time, explains that while she was originally “very sniffy” about weight-loss drugs, her experience has been “100% liberating.”

While many have turned to weight-loss medication as a “quick fix,” Saira, 56, makes it clear that wasn’t the case for her and it wasn’t a decision she took lightly. “It wasn't that I wanted to go on it. I was advised to go on it by my hormone doctor, Dr Susanne Hooper,” she tells woman&home.

“I felt that there was something not quite right with me. Not just the menopause. I was really bloated. I would sometimes eat just an apple and look about nine months pregnant. My attitude to life has always been, try and help yourself first - and I did, but I still didn’t feel right.”

Saira continues, “So I did a complete and utter MOT of what my body was doing and a blood test. We got the results back and Dr Hooper said, ‘You eat well. You strength train, but your physiology is going in the wrong direction. You're 5 '1, South Asian, your BMI is 29 and your cholesterol is going in the wrong direction, it's high for all the effort that you’re putting in.’ And so she put me on Mounjaro alongside eating 80g of protein and continuing to strength train three times a week.”

Revealing her initial reservations, the mum-of-two shares, “I was shocked [she was advising this]. Previously I’ve been very sniffy about them.”

“I'm one of these women going, ‘you shouldn’t need jabs,’ and you hear all the horror stories in the media, all the side effects, the Ozempic face. But she said, ‘I’m only offering this to you because I know you've already got your exercise plan in place, you eat well.’”

As we chat, Saira wants to make it clear that she did things the “right way,” explaining, “I think it's important to know that I went to a doctor, it's not like I went to Asda and just picked up medication.”

She adds, “It wasn't that I wanted to be skinny, it's that I actually needed to reverse metabolic problems in my body. It was through medical advice and tests.”

The presenter, who has partnered with Green Chef to launch the Nutrient Rich Network to help those on weight-loss journeys understand nutrition better, says that she was “straight up,” with both her family and social media followers when it came to taking the medication.

Right from the start, I told my husband, I told my kids… I lost followers [but] I don't want medication that can really help people to be a taboo subject.”

The star believes that transparency is key. “Unfortunately, I see people in the public eye who are on these drugs and say, ‘I'm just healthy eating,’ or whatever. It gives people the wrong ideas and makes it unachievable.”

She also makes it clear that going on the drugs without making healthy lifestyle changes, which is why she’s teamed up with recipe box company Green Chef.

“It's not just about taking the medication and Green Chef supports that. There is so much more to think about and so many things that could affect you negatively if you don't do it properly. Nutrition is the key.”

“But I ended up eating the same foods, it became really repetitive. Before the kids would say, ‘Mum, not chicken and salad again.’ But this week, with Green Chef, we've had steak, herb crusted salmon, and Beurre Blanc fish. It's wonderful and they're so easy and fresh.”

Through the campaign, she reveals she’s learnt “yes, you can have meat, but you can add some beans and other vegetables to increase the nutrients.”

However, she insists, “I'm not counting calories, I'm counting protein and fibre,” explaining, “That's a whole different mindset and as you get older, you need calories but they need to come from the right foods.”

work with Green Chef has “completely changed” her relationship with food. “Before, it was about guilt, control, restraint. It felt such hard work and it wasn’t normal.”

The former Loose Women panellist explains, “No matter how hard I’ve tried, I've been on diets, I couldn’t sit down with a cup of tea and not have a chocolate biscuit. I might not even need it, but it's a habit thing and it's about reprogramming that. “

“I had a lot of food noise. Some people can really control what they're eating. I love food and I found that difficult, but this medication has helped me.”

Proving that her weight-loss journey and establishing a healthier relationship with food is all about balance, Saira tells fans, “I still have a bit of chocolate or a little treat every day, but I know that I've had my nutrients.”

“And they’re the habits people need to implement if they want to maintain after reducing and ultimately stopping the medication. I just hope that more people start to do it properly and understand that the medication should not just be a quick shortcut to getting thin.”

As for how she feels now, the star shares that she’s “really starting to feel like myself again and feel better mentally.”

“I don’t weigh myself but my BMI is getting better, I've started to buy a few more clothes and also get into my old clothes.  Because I’m strength training, I'm toning up, becoming a bit leaner and I 100% feel much more confident in myself. When you're not bloated and you feel like you're eating well, it feeds every part of you. Your body, your gut, your mental health.”

She concludes, “I’m thriving now.”

Green Chef UK has partnered with Saira Khan to launch the Nutrient Rich Network, giving expert advice and recipes for every stage of the weight loss journey

I'm a fashion editor who loves a breezy midi dress, but I’ll admit I’m no shorts expert. In fact, I found a pair of linen shorts months ago that flatter my pins and thought I'd call it a day because I hate trying them on so much. But while chatting with colleagues about the hunt for the perfect shorts for summer, I started collecting recommendations I couldn’t ignore.

woman&home's Health Channel Editor Grace Walsh told me about the FatFace denim shorts she'd found that were so good, she immediately bought a second pair. Then our Royal Editor Emma Shacklock mentioned she'd been wearing a new pair of denim shorts from beloved British clothing brand M&S on repeat recently.

It reminded me just how valuable real-life recommendations can be, especially when it comes to finding confidence-boosting options as well as how to style shorts. So I put the question to the wider woman&home team: where can I find the best shorts for summer? Below are the styles we've been wearing on repeat throughout this season’s heatwaves - tried, tested and genuinely loved.

9 best shorts for summer - as chosen by the woman&home team

Just like your favourite jeans in cooler weather, shorts will provide a great foundation for any outfit. You could dress a pair of denim cut-offs up with a broderie anglaise blouse and tan sandals, or you could keep things casual with your best white trainers and a T-shirt.

Fashion Channel Editor Rivkie Baum has this advice: "When it comes to wearing shorts, many women are a little hesitant, but my best advice? Start with a longer, wide-leg pair. Culottes are a huge trend this year, and the breezier iterations mimic an A-line midi skirt but give you the freedom of shorts/trousers, and, technically, since there are legs, they save you from having to invest in the best anti-chafing shorts, too.

"By opting for a wide-leg, longer pair, you'll barely notice you're in shorts, and as your confidence grows, you can try different styles and silhouettes. I'd also suggest opting for a waist style, colour and brand that serve you well when purchasing trousers, as you can feel more confident in the cut and fit. So if you usually wear high-waisted jeans in a dark indigo, make that the starting point for your shorts."

Another heatwave is inbound, but our beauty team is way ahead of it with a trio of soothing essentials already chilling in the fridge as we speak - ready to provide instant relief from the sweltering scenes.

While you typically go to your fridge to satisfy your hunger and grab a cold drink, with temperatures once again set to soar, it can also alleviate that sticky-hot feeling from your skin, too. If you've thought ahead and stocked its shelves with your best eye creams, face moisturisers and cryo tools, that is. Right now, our team's own fridges are lined with cooling essentials, ready to apply and spritz whenever the heat gets a little too much to bear. And in case you're not sure what exactly to add to your shopping list, we've each shared our three go-to heatwave picks that were soothing to begin with, but are best served chilled.

From cooling and glow-boosting mists to the best Korean face masks, these are the 12 products you'll find alongside the butter in our team's fridges right now.

Take it from us - these are the 12 beauty buys to stick in your fridge, quick

While there's not much we can do to fully escape 30°C heat, things like fans, icy drinks and cooling skincare can afford a little reprieve, and in terms of the latter, we have quite a few tried and tested recommendations for you.

Naomi's cooling essentials

In Digital Beauty Writer, Naomi Jamieson's fridge, you'll find Biodance's Collagen overnight masks, which she grabs for quick cooling before she goes to bed, as well as Dr Althea's Calming Pads and Caudalie's iconic Beauty Elixir. The latter, she spritzes over her face and neck whenever she passes the fridge.

Sennen's cooling essentials

For Digital Beauty Writer, Sennen Prickett, she's got a mist, eye patches and a cooling face mask waiting in the wings (of her fridge).

Fiona's cooling essentials

Doubling as both heat-relief and de-puffing treatments, Digital Beauty Editor Fiona McKim's fridge is currently home to a rollerball eye serum and a jade roller. She's also got a body lotion chilling in there, in case her arms and legs need relief too.

Aleesha's cooling essentials

When temperatures spike, it's face masks that Beauty Shopping & eCommerce Editor, Aleesha Badkar, stocks her fridge shelves with, specifically Glow Recipe's Watermelon Glow mask and Lumene's hydrating gel formula. She also has some steel ice globes in there, too.

If you've ever thought about rigging up an outdoor projector and hosting a watch party in your garden, this weekend is shaping up to be the best one of the year to do it. A weekend of sporting drama is on the cards as the Wimbledon finals are set to take place, and Thomas Tuchel’s England squad take on Norway in the World Cup quarter-final.

Under normal British summer conditions, relying on an outdoor projector for a watch party would be a risky choice, of course. But with yet another mid-summer heatwave also on the horizon, this weekend could be ideal for a seamless afternoon-to-late-night garden party. What’s not to love about the idea of serving Pimm's on the lawn in the afternoon, before creating an elegant late-night cinema outdoors to watch the football under the stars?

To help you create the perfect watch party setup, we’ve tracked down the ideal outdoor projector and screen that don’t require any complicated tech and will arrive before the action begins on Saturday. Best of all, if rain (or heat) stops play and you’d rather move the party indoors, these brilliant designs can handle that, too.

• Delivery reminder: Order via next-day delivery or click-and-collect no later than Thursday, July 9th, to guarantee time to get your set up sorted.

If you want a lightweight outdoor projector that doesn't look like ugly office equipment, this is the one. Measuring 5.5 cm thick, it's designed to look like a hardcover book, so it'll blend effortlessly into your bedroom or living room aesthetic when it's not in use – and it comes highly recommended by our Fashion Ecommerce Editor, Caroline Parr.

"It's a solid outdoor projector choice for this weekend's heatwave because it eliminates the clutter of extra cords and gives you one-click, licensed access to Netflix, Prime Video, and YouTube with no need for an extra TV stick," she says.

Best of all, it has an integrated 360-degree adjustable stand. So if the mid-summer heatwave makes hosting outdoors uncomfortable, you can carry this lightweight device indoors and project a native 1080p display onto your wall while surrounding yourself with cooling fans.

It's also equipped with lightning-fast WiFi 6 and intelligent auto-focusing.

If your garden doesn't have a perfectly flat, whitewashed wall to project onto, a dedicated screen for outdoor projector setups is a must, transforming a casual gathering into a true cinema experience.

Similarly, built-in speakers in many modern compact projectors can leave a lot to be desired, especially if they have to compete with a crowd of noisy football fans. Solve that problem by pairing your projector with a portable Bluetooth speaker to deliver deep, rich commentary and crowd noise without ruining your aesthetic.

How to style a summer watch party

An outdoor projector is only one piece of the World Cup watch party puzzle – make your outdoor space elegant and inviting with a few thoughtful styling choices. Here is how to build a space that effortlessly transitions from afternoon tennis to a late-night outdoor cinema.

1. Use white to anchor the space

“White is the most instinctive starting point for a summer sporting setting, and a white linen tablecloth is the easiest place to begin,” says Chloe Barrow, interior expert at Laura James.

“Everything you add around it – the glassware, the greenery, the cushions on chairs – naturally falls into place without much effort. I would always recommend building colour from the base up rather than introducing everything at once. Swapping out your existing garden chair cushions for something in classic green is honestly all you need to tie the space back to the sporting occasion without it feeling heavily themed.”

2. Create a simple tablescape

“The tablescape is where a summer setting really comes together, because the references are already there for you to use,” Chloe explains. “I personally love using whole limes as part of a centrepiece; the colour and shape do a quiet nod to tennis balls and football pitches without going anywhere near novelty decoration. A small posy of purple sweet peas or lavender alongside them pulls the whole look together without needing much else. Matching glassware on the white linen base is the finishing touch that takes it from a garden table to something that feels elevated, and in my experience, it is the detail guests comment on most.”

3. Think about shade and seating

With high-summer afternoon temperatures predicted to soar, keeping your guests comfortable throughout the day is critical.

“July sun is something people consistently underestimate when they are setting up outdoors,” warns Chloe. “Shade is something I plan around before anything else at a summer event, because a garden that looks beautiful but leaves guests squinting through matches has missed the point entirely. A parasol over the main seating area solves that practically while also bringing height and structure to the space.”

When the sun finally dips, and it’s time for the 10:00 PM kickoff, you can lower the parasol to open up the view to your outdoor projector screen. Keep in mind, too, that harsh outdoor lights risk washing out your screen, so instead opt for warm-toned fairy lights or LED candles, but place them behind the viewing line to keep the screen clear.

“Getting the seating right for a watch party is crucial, because a scattered arrangement of chairs with no clear focus on the screen reads more like a last-minute gathering,” Chloe adds. “Facing a corner sofa set to the screen changes that immediately. An outdoor rug laid underneath anchors the zone and defines it as its own destination within the garden, which is the difference between a space that looks good and one that actually functions well for a group of people watching together.”

For a thoughtful extra touch, pile a basket high with cosy throws and lightweight blankets, just in case anyone starts to feel the chill once the sun goes down.

And finally, don’t forget to turn on the projector to sync it with your home Wi-Fi and log in to your streaming apps well before the party starts.

Extreme summer heat can wreak havoc with our gardens, making it harder to determine our plants' watering needs. Especially plants such as lavender, which typically prefer a dry environment but not necessarily for prolonged periods.

As a result, when it comes to caring for lavender plants, the watering routine is not a straightforward one-rule-for-all approach of little and often. It all depends on whether the plant is in a pot or growing in the ground and how established it is.

These key factors can make all the difference between a healthy, thriving plant and one that struggles to survive. To gain a clear picture of what's best, we've consulted a team of trusted garden experts for an optimum routine to ensure we're watering your garden sufficiently.

How often should I water lavender plants?

While the timing of pruning lavender is key to encouraging healthy growth, watering is even more important at this time of year to ensure the plant remains hydrated but not waterlogged.

"Lavender is a naturally drought-tolerant plant once it's established, so it's much happier with a good soak every now and then than frequent little drinks," explains Orpheus Alexander, w&h's resident gardener.

"If it's planted in the ground, established lavender will usually only need watering during long dry spells. Newly planted lavender is different, though, and will need more regular watering for the first few weeks while it settles in.

Lavender grown in pots dries out much more quickly, especially if it's in full sun. During summer, it's worth checking the compost every couple of days and only watering when the top few centimetres feel dry."

Do I have to water lavender every day?

With the record-breaking high temperatures of recent weeks, it's easy to wonder whether you should water outdoor plants every day in hot weather, but more often than not, it's that's not necessary – unless you are watering seedlings.

Because lavender is a drought-tolerant plant, it doesn't fall into the category of daily watering unless it's newly potted and needs help to establish stronger roots.

"Lavender is one of those plants that's much happier being a little drier than too wet," says Chris Bonnett, founder of Gardeningexpress.co.uk. "If it's growing in the ground, a well-established plant will usually only need watering during long hot spells, as rainfall is often enough."

And while a patio container plant will require more water, it still won't need to be every day, as Chris explains: "Potted lavender is a different story because the compost dries out much faster. During warm weather, you'll probably need to water once or twice a week, but it's always better to check the soil first rather than watering on a schedule."

Does it need more water in hot weather?

In short, yes. Like many garden plants, lavender may require a little more water to stay hydrated during hot weather. But this also depends on where it is growing - in the ground or in a pot.

"During a heatwave, potted lavender may need watering every couple of days, or even daily if it's in a small container," says Orpheus, suggesting also, "If you can, move pots out of the strongest afternoon sun into a spot with a little light shade. This helps stop the compost from drying out so quickly while still giving the plant plenty of light.

"Lavender growing in the ground is generally much more resilient, but if there's been no rain for a prolonged period, an occasional deep watering is far better than frequent light watering."

Chris agrees but also warns not to misjudge the amount. "You'll usually need to water a bit more often when temperatures climb, especially if the lavender is in a pot sitting in full sun. That said, don't be tempted to overcompensate, as lavender is naturally drought-tolerant, so even in hot weather it still prefers a good soak now and then rather than being kept constantly damp."

How can you tell when it needs watering?

It can be hard, especially during periods of extreme heat, to tell when a plant needs watering more often. So what are the telltale signs that a lavender plant needs watering? "The best way is to check the soil rather than the plant," says Orpheus.

"Push your finger a couple of inches into the compost or soil. If it still feels damp, leave it alone. If it's dry, it's time to water. During prolonged dry weather, the foliage may start to droop slightly, but it's always worth checking the soil first before reaching for the watering can."

Can lavender be overwatered?

Lavender can most certainly fall victim to overwatering; in fact is is one of the most common reasons it struggles in both pots and soil. Explaining the reasons why, Orpheus says: "Lavender doesn't like sitting in wet soil, and constantly damp conditions can quickly lead to root rot and poor growth."

Chris is quick to stress, "Once root rot sets in, the plant can be difficult to save."

Given this, it is essential to consider the growing conditions first and foremost. "Good drainage is every bit as important as getting the watering right," explains Orpheus.

Right now, it's all about watering and mulching to help lavender plants survive the summer climate, but come autumn, it pays to know how to overwinter lavender to prepare it for the dormant months in winter.

Since the recent heatwaves began, everyone has been asking, "are there any fans that are as good as air conditioning?" Air conditioning is still a rarity in many UK homes, portable units can be expensive (and often sell out during hot spells), and nobody wants to spend hundreds on something they'll only use for a few weeks each year. So, if a fan can deliver that same cooling relief for a fraction of the price, it's worth knowing about.

Over the past four years, I've tested dozens of the best cooling fans in real homes, from stuffy bedrooms and home offices to heatwave conditions that make concentrating or sleeping impossible. I've also tested DIY air conditioning hacks, spoken to experts in thermal comfort and indoor air quality to understand exactly what fans can do, where they fall short, and which models come closest to mimicking the refreshing feeling of air conditioning.

So, when it comes to fans vs air conditioning, which is actually the better way to stay cool? The answer isn't as straightforward as you might think. Here's how the two compare, and why the right fan might be all you need to beat the heat.

Air conditioning vs cooling fans - how do they compare?

When people compare cooling fans and air conditioning, they're usually asking a few questions: can a fan keep you as cool as an air conditioner without the higher running costs and installation? Is it worth installing air conditioning in the UK? What's the difference between the two? I've put all these questions to the test myself, alongside cooling window hacks and I have also asked the experts.

Michael Zohouri, founder of UK retrofit and home improvement specialist Pyramid Eco, sums up the difference saying, “the simplest way to explain it is that air conditioning cools the air and a fan cools the person." He adds that "air conditioning systems work by actively removing heat from the room and lowering the air temperature. A fan doesn’t have any impact on air temperature at all. It makes you feel cooler by moving air across your skin to help sweat evaporate and make you feel cooler.”

The first part of our answers to the fans vs air conditioner debate depends on just how hot you are and whether the high temperature in your home is a permanent state or a passing heatwave.

What I found when testing cooling fans

Unlike an air conditioner, a cooling fan doesn't lower the temperature of a room. Chris Michael, co-founder of Meaco, explains that it's important to avoid fan mistakes and to use yours tactically. "A fan can make you feel more comfortable by moving air across the body, helping sweat evaporate and creating a cooling effect on the skin." Importantly, he explains that "it will not lower the room temperature like an air conditioner, but it can make warm rooms feel more comfortable, especially when used with lighter bedding and good ventilation."

Having tested all the fan hacks as well as a range of cooling fans in hot bedrooms, home offices and living spaces, there's a lot of variety in the world of fans. A poor-quality fan simply blows a weak stream of air that only works if you're sitting directly in front of it. The best cooling fans create enough airflow to circulate air around the room, reducing the stuffy, stagnant feeling that builds up during warm weather. Features like wide oscillation, multiple speed settings and quiet operation make a noticeable difference, especially if you're using a fan while you sleep.

The biggest advantage of a fan is that it's affordable to buy, inexpensive to run and ready to use straight out of the box. There's no installation, no venting and you can move it from room to room as temperatures change. The trade-off is that fans only make you feel cooler and they don't reduce the room's temperature. For most UK homes, that's enough on all but the hottest days, which is why a good fan is often the first cooling appliance I'd recommend.

How air conditioning actually works (and why it feels so different)

Unlike a cooling fan, an air conditioner actively changes the temperature of a room so is a brilliant way to keep your bedroom cool. It uses a refrigerant system to remove heat and humidity from the air before releasing the heat outside (or through some form of exhaust), leaving your home noticeably cooler. In particular, helping to reduce in humidity can make a huge difference during muggy UK heatwaves, when the air feels heavy and sticky.

According to Chris Michael, co-founder of Meaco, there are times when a fan simply won't be enough. "On the hottest evenings, a fan may not be enough on its own," he explains. Instead, he recommends using a portable air conditioner to pre-cool your bedroom before you go to sleep. "Turn it on a few hours before bedtime, keep the bedroom door closed and keep blinds or curtains shut," he says, "Then put the hose out of the window and use the window kit to seal the gap, so the unit can cool the room more efficiently." On some models, including Meaco's, "once the room has reached a comfortable temperature, you can switch to fan mode to keep the air moving with less noise overnight."

The downside is that air conditioning comes with a higher upfront cost than a fan, uses more electricity and, depending on the model, may require venting through a window or permanent installation. Chris also advises to " focus on cooling capacity rather than extra features that do little to improve comfort," he adds that "many people underestimate the size they need and then find the unit cannot cool the room properly on the hottest nights."

For most people, air conditioning is best suited to homes that regularly become unbearably hot or anyone who finds high temperatures make it difficult to sleep, while a good cooling fan is often enough for everyday summer comfort.

So, should you buy a cooling fan or air conditioning?

For most UK homes, a good cooling fan is the most practical place to start. It’s affordable (you can read more about how much they cost to run), easy to use and can make a big difference when a bedroom or living room starts to feel hot and stuffy. If you mainly struggle with a few warm nights each summer, or you want something to make sleeping, working or relaxing more comfortable, a good fan will probably do everything you need.

Air conditioning is the better choice for anyone who regularly finds heat difficult to manage, whether that’s because your home gets extremely warm, you struggle to sleep during heatwaves, you can't keep your bedroom cool, or you live somewhere that experiences long periods of hot, humid weather. Unlike a fan, it can actually bring down the temperature of the room and remove excess moisture from the air, making it a more powerful solution when temperatures really soar.

The simplest way to think about it is that fans improve comfort, while air conditioning changes the environment. For many UK households, a fan will be enough most of the year, but when a heatwave hits and the air feels heavy and impossible to escape, air conditioning is in a different league.

When it comes to fake tanning your feet, it's not always as easy as slathering it on – many of us have been there, waking up to orange, patchy feet with no idea what went wrong. Fortunately, we've discovered the foolproof expert routine for seamlessly self-tanning your feet, ready to slip into your flip-flops.

With summer in full swing and the sun making frequent appearances, your attention might turn to getting your legs and feet in tip-top condition, ready for sandal season. Reaching for either the best fake tan for mature skin or one of the best gradual tans is a quick fix, but ending up with patchy, uneven-looking feet is one of the most common fake tan mistakes.

Luckily, we can forget streakiness, patchiness and tangerine hues, as we've quizzed the founder of self-tan brand St. Moriz on her easy routine to ensure seamlessly bronzed feet with every application.

A step-by-step to self-tanning your feet, as per a fake tan expert

Self-tanning your feet is no easy feat; in fact it can be quite a tricky task. In the height of summer, it's likely that you'll have your feet on show more than usual, which means it's important to nail your fake tan routine for seamless results. Thankfully, tanning expert and founder of St. Moriz, Melanie Brownlow is here to save the day as she reveals her top tips for unlocking a natural-looking tan from head-to-toe.

Step 1 – Exfoliate

If you already know a thing or two about fake tanning, you might know the importance of prepping the skin before application to ensure a smooth, natural-looking finish – ie., exfoliating.

As for your feet, Brownlow recommends: “If you’ve been wearing flip-flops or sandals, your heels may be feeling more dry and rough than usual, so doing this thoroughly is important. Use an exfoliating scrub to help remove any dead skin cells and leave you with the perfect smooth base to build your tan."

As for when you should be doing this, Melanie suggests: “Timing-wise, aim to do this 24 hours prior to application rather than immediately before. This will even out your tan as the skin's pores will have closed by the time of application.”

Step 2 – Hydrate the skin with an oil-free moisturiser

Sticking with the preparation, you'll then want to focus on hydrating the skin. As Brownlow says: “Concentrating on the heels, apply an oil-free body lotion to your feet, helping to create a barrier between the skin and self-tan to prevent the tan clinging too heavily to dry areas. Make sure you leave at least 30 minutes between moisturising and application so that it sits on the skin evenly.”

Step 3 – Choose your self-tan

There are a few different formulas you can opt for to ensure a flawless tan on your feet. If you're new to self-tanning, you might be best suited to a gradual tan, as Melanie says: “Gradual tans are generally more “fool-proof” than your classic mousses, so if you’re newer to tanning, this is a good place to start, especially on those trickier areas such as feet and ankles."

While a gradual tanning product "gives you a little bit more control, enabling you to build your tan over two or three days until you achieve the colour you desire", Brownlow says you can also "use a tanning mousse if you are looking to achieve a deeper complexion."

Step 4 – Apply tan

When it comes to the application process, the St. Moriz founder advises: "Tanning your body as usual using a tanning mitt before rubbing into the foot area, using only the excess product. Never apply the product directly onto your feet or ankle bones as this is likely to cause a buildup. Less really is more when it comes to tanning feet."

There are also a few areas worth avoiding applying fake tan entirely, Brownlow notes: “Skip the sides of your feet and soles entirely. The idea is to emulate a natural sun-kissed glow, and as the sun wouldn’t hit these areas, product build-up in these spots is a clear giveaway that it’s not a natural tan. Finally, take a small buffing brush and lightly work the tan into the foot, encouraging the product to blend in flawlessly as it develops.”

Step 5 – Remove any excess product

While the tanning application is important, there's one step in the process that's essential not to miss – removing excess product. Brownlow advises: "Letting excess product sit on the skin and develop - especially around the ankles and toes where skin is thinner - is what will cause a tan that looks patchy, uneven and a little orange."

"As the skin around the foot area is thinner, the skin absorbs pigment at a quicker rate than other areas of the body such as legs and arms. Avoid this common fake tan faux pas by re-moisturising. It may seem like a strange step at this stage in the process, but applying a small amount of moisturiser can work to dilute the tan ever so slightly, helping it to develop subtly.”

Step 6 – Protect the feet with water-based SPF

Fake tan doesn't protect your skin against harmful UV rays, so it's still crucial that you prioritise applying SPF over the top of your faux glow when out and about. As for a formula that won't disrupt your tan, Brownlow recommends: "Opting for a water-based sunscreen will help keep your tan intact longer, as oily products can break the product down, something you especially want to avoid when it comes to your feet - one of the biggest telltale areas of a fake tan.”

The latest ingredient attracting attention for its beauty benefits may already be sitting in your kitchen cupboard. Black sesame seeds are quickly becoming a wellness staple, finding their way into everything from matcha lattes and smoothie bowls to rich, nutty pastes eaten straight from the spoon. The appeal? Advocates claim a daily serving could help keep grey hairs at bay.

While the trend may feel new to our social media feeds, black sesame has been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for centuries, where it's traditionally believed to nourish the kidneys and liver – two organs thought to play an important role in hair health and vitality.

Rich in nutrients including copper, iron, zinc and vitamin E, the tiny seeds have long been valued as part of an inside-out approach to wellbeing. But can they really influence when we go grey? We asked a consultant dermatologist to settle the debate.

Can black sesame seeds reverse grey hair?

Black sesame has earned a reputation as a hair-friendly food thanks to its nutritional profile. Naturally rich in copper, antioxidants and polyunsaturated fats, it's packed with nutrients that support overall health. And because copper plays a role in melanin production – the pigment that gives hair its colour – some have suggested black sesame could help delay the appearance of grey hair.

While it sounds plausible, the evidence isn't there yet. "The idea of black sesame paste helping to maintain youthful hair colour is thought to have originated in Traditional Chinese Medicine," says consultant dermatologist Dr Magnus Lynch. "It certainly contains healthy minerals, nutrients and antioxidants, but there is no scientific evidence to support the suggestion that it stops hair turning grey."

Hair turns grey as pigment-producing cells, known as melanocytes, gradually become less active within the hair follicle as we age. While certain nutrient deficiencies have been linked to premature greying, genetics and the natural ageing process remain the biggest influences on when our hair loses its natural pigment.

"It is true that certain deficiencies in copper, iron, vitamin B12 and folate have been linked to premature greying in some studies, but eating additional amounts of these vitamins and nutrients will not reverse the effects," says Dr Lynch. "Smoking is currently thought to have a stronger impact on earlier greying."

Are black sesame seeds good for your hair?

Black sesame may not hold the secret to keeping grey hairs at bay, but it's still a worthwhile addition to your shopping list. Naturally rich in unsaturated fats, antioxidants and minerals, the seeds can support overall wellbeing as part of a balanced diet.

"Black sesame seeds can support overall skin health and hair production if included within a healthy diet. However, they will not boost growth or shine on their own," says Dr Lynch. Ultimately, healthy hair is shaped by far more than any one ingredient. Scalp care and lifestyle make a difference, too.

Does anything help keep hair pigmented for longer?

"If you are worried about turning grey prematurely, it is worth having a discussion with your GP about your general health in case of any underlying medical cause such as a thyroid disorder," says Dr Lynch. "I'd advise eating a balanced diet including sufficient protein, iron, zinc, vitamin D, Omega-3 and vitamin B12, particularly if you are vegetarian or vegan. Be aware that smoking is thought to be a major factor. Protect your scalp from the sun and seek support if you suffer from chronic stress."

I spent a fair bit of last week in bed. Struck down by some mystery summer virus, I managed to burn through an impressive variety of unpleasant symptoms - and yes, weather watchers, the heatwave was indeed in full swing. Spicy times!

As you'd expect given the circumstances, my skincare routine was far from the front of my mind. But, having hauled my sorry self to the fridge in search of a chilled ginger shot one sweltering afternoon, a little pink tube winked at me.

I'd stashed said eye serum in the veg crisper, in preparation for the heatwave. And, unlike every other product in my house at that particular moment, applying this one felt, not just feasible, but actively appealing.

Why this cooling, de-puffing eye roller is my beauty buy of the week

Lest I sound as if I'm selling Grace & Stella Cooling Eye Roller as some kind of medicinal tincture, rest assured, this is a skincare product through and through. In fact, it's a very well-formulated eye serum, containing hydrating, energising ingredients, cleverly delivered through a large metal rollerball that massages and depuffs as it goes.

I far prefer using serums around my eyes vs rich creams - and so should you. Even if you have lots of dehydration or lines in the undereye area, the skin is very, very thin and really doesn't like to be smothered in ultra-thick ointments; it can actually make puffiness worse.

Another thing I like about this is that it doesn't over-promise. Even the best eye cream in the world can't firm eye bags up (that'd be surgery) or significantly reduce dark circles (sleep and genetics, I'm afraid). So the fact that this sells itself on simply refreshing and energising is bang on. More of this radical honesty in beauty, please.

As for me, in my sad little heatwave sick bed, rolling this icy elixir on honestly brought me similar levels of relief as my four-hourly ibuprofen hits. But I've continued using it long after the doldrums lifted - as a sub-tenner summer morning hydrator and enlivener, it's pretty unbeatable. Sounds good? Great! Let's chat next Sunday.

Collagen has been a beauty buzzword for a while now. We need it to keep our skin youthful, but levels naturally decrease as we age. And from the age of 20, we start to lose 1% a year. It’s what makes us glow and our skin feel and look plump and hydrated. Some might argue that it’s the master key to turning back the clock.

Now that I've reached my mid-40s, I’m definitely noticing that my collagen levels are decreasing rapidly and I’m not looking as fresh-faced and youthful as I’d like. But how do any of us go about trying to boost our skin if we want to go beyond the multiple options on offer in the supplement and skincare world, but don’t want anything too obvious like filler, or as dramatic as a facelift?

Step forward, Sculptra, a biostimulator injectable, which helps boost the body’s own collagen production to gradually restore lost facial volume (i.e. any sagging) and improve the skin's texture. The best part? It can last up to two years.

What happened when our Editor tried Sculptra

As a newbie to aesthetic treatments, I was initially really nervous about the thought of having anything injected into my face. We’ve all read the horror stories of tweakments going wrong. Puffed-up cheeks, trout pout lips? No thanks. I didn’t want anything like that to happen, and I wanted to be 100% confident in the choice I was making.

But I needn’t have worried. Dr Ashwin Soni, a fully qualified US and UK trained reconstructive surgeon and founder of the award-winning Soni Clinic located in Ascot, Surrey and London, put me immediately at ease when I visited him for my initial consultation. “This is without doubt, the very best product on the market, with incredible and lasting results. I administer Sculptra on average 12 to 15 times a day and it’s changed the lives of so many people,” he reassured me.

“Collagen gradually reduces from a young age and as women enter the perimenopausal years, collagen production reduces by a further 30% within five years. Sculptra is so effective because it encourages your own collagen to start producing again and for some clients, this feels like a more natural alternative," adds Dr Soni, who specialises in understated aesthetic treatments that enhance without looking artificial. “Sculptra has been a game-changer in the aesthetic world and is a great option for people new to the aesthetics scene.”

What is Sculptra and how does it work?

“Sculptra is a regenerative plant-derived collagen biostimulator that stimulates type 1 collagen,” explains Dr Soni. It’s been in use for over 25 years and is the first and original poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA-SCA) injectable that targets fine lines, wrinkles, sagging and other signs of ageing due to collagen loss.

“The poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA-SCA) is injected into the deeper layers of the skin to form a framework that helps support and maintain the skin’s inner structure," Dr Soni adds. “This helps to significantly improve the elasticity and quality of the skin, and can also provide a natural lifting effect, as well as restoring natural volume."

Results can be seen as early as one month after treatment and will last up to two years, revealing natural-looking firmness and improved skin quality, with 95% of patients having improved skin glow for two years afterwards. As well as the face and neck, Sculptra can also be used for the body to treat the décolletage, arms and bottom, too.

What happens during a Sculptra treatment?

After my first consultation, in which Dr Soni explained exactly what to expect, I felt much more comfortable about having the treatment. His clinic is not only professional but has a very calm vibe and almost felt like being in a relaxing spa. The treatment began with me lying down and an anaesthetic cream was applied to each side of my face, on the cheek area. A cold compress was then applied before I was injected with the collagen-regenerative biostimulator.

This procedure can take some practitioners time to administer, with appointments lasting up to an hour, but Dr Soni is speedy and both injections were completed within 25 seconds! To finish, he gave my skin a small massage, using a moisturiser by Alastin Skincare, to ensure that the collagen started to form in a uniformed sheet.

Does Sculptra hurt?

For me, Sculptra didn't hurt at all. This is because a numbing cream is applied to each injection site beforehand, plus the actual injection contains Lidocaine, an anaesthetic, which improves pain and discomfort during the procedure. Dr Soni uses only one injection site on each side of the face; a cannula needle is then able to move around under the skin, depositing tiny amounts of Sculptra at different points in the dermis. The worst you can feel is a little pressure and the very fine needle doesn’t even leave a mark.

What was skin like post-treatment?

I’d told no one what I was doing and when I returned from the appointment, nothing could be seen. No puffiness, redness or bruising. This is a treatment that really could be done in a lunch break!

As for aftercare, it is important to massage your face for five minutes, five times a day for five days post-treatment. “As the collagen starts to form, you want it to form as a uniform sheet rather than small pearls. By massaging, you help the water reabsorb so that any puffiness goes within a day or so,’ explains Dr Soni.

The only thing you can’t do is go for a run in the first 48 hours (what better excuse?) or indulge in a steam or sauna. My skin very quickly felt plumper and more hydrated within three weeks. I’d lost some weight, but instead of looking drawn and saggy, the elasticity in my face improved, bouncing back and feeling more youthful.

How many Sculptra treatments do you need for results?

According to Dr Soni, treatment plans vary for each person. “[The number of sessions] depends on the patient's skin quality and how much elasticity they have lost. It can be anything from three procedures to five, with a four-week gap between each,” he says.

In my case, I had four sessions and am still seeing the results, which can develop over a period of six months. My make-up glides on more easily, my skin feels fresher and without doubt, plumper. A youthful glow has returned, and Dr Soni confirms, “It will only get better. The results will keep activating as each month passes. Maintenance [treatment] one year after your last session is important for longevity, but this lasts for up to two years.”

Six months down the line, I feel more confident about my skin, and friends often comment that I look really well. I no longer look at myself in the mirror and think I appear tired. It’s like my skin has had a welcome drink, and it really shows!

How much does Sculptra cost?

The cost of Sculptra depends on the area treated and the practitioner. At The Soni Clinic, Sculptra starts from £750 per session.

Ah, the age-old debate of cream vs powder bronzers. Where one often delivers a seamless, matte finish, the other melts into the skin for a glow and natural payoff. Both have their merits, but which is right for you? The experts weigh in.

Putting a pin in the different formula types for a moment, the best bronzers are designed to deliver a sunkissed glow to your complexion and depending on how and where you apply them, they can also help to sculpt and define your features - much like a contour product. Like with the best blushes, though, your choice of a powder or cream bronzer can impact the overall look and finish of your makeup, as well as how it wears throughout the day. If you have quite dry skin, for instance, or fine lines you don't want to accentuate, a cream might actually be better suited.

It's safe to say there's a lot to consider before you buy, so we've enlisted the help of industry pros to share their expertise on choosing the right bronzer for you - as well as their top application tips.

Cream vs powder bronzers: how to choose the best formula for you

As mentioned, a bronzer is great to have in your beauty bag when you're looking to add warmth and radiance to your skin. Personally, we tend to swap our contour sticks out for a glow-boosting bronzer when summer rolls around, but if you're new to the product, the sheer amount of formulas can be quite overwhelming.

That's where the experts come to the rescue, though, by sharing all their knowledge on texture, application and finding the right bronzer shade for you...

Our trio of bronzer picks

The differences between cream vs powder bronzers

Aside from the obvious differences in texture and packaging, the finish is really what sets the two apart. As Laura Geller, makeup artist and founder of Laura Geller Beauty, explains: "Cream bronzers tend to melt into the complexion and create a dewier glow, while powder bronzers usually offer a more soft-focus, flawless finish.

"The important thing to remember is that not all powders are created equal. A traditional powder can sometimes emphasise dryness, but a baked powder formula has a creamy feel and blends beautifully without looking chalky. It's really about choosing a formula that enhances your skin rather than sitting on top of it."

Can you layer cream and powder bronzers?

So, now that we know they offer such different finishes, with creams offering more of a natural, dewy radiance and powders, a more blurred and seamless look, does that mean you need both in your makeup bag?

"Not at all. If you find one formula that makes your skin look healthy and gives you confidence, that's all you need. Makeup should simplify your routine, not complicate it," notes Geller. "That said, some people enjoy having both a cream for a fresh, radiant look and a powder for days when they want a little extra longevity or definition."

You can also layer them, so if you really can't choose between a powder or cream formula, the two can come in handy. "Start with a cream bronzer while your complexion products are still slightly tacky," Geller recommends, "then, if you'd like a little more warmth and longer wear, lightly dust a powder bronzer over the top to set everything in place.

"The key is using a light hand; you want each layer to enhance the last, not compete with it. I'm especially partial to the silky, weightless texture of my Baked Bronze-n-Brighten Multipurpose Bronzer because it adds natural-looking warmth without ever looking heavy or chalky."

This same trick can be applied to your best cream blushes too - a powder can help to set everything in place and keep your favourite rosy hues from vanishing throughout the day (a common qualm with blush).

Which should you buy

• Cream bronzers: "are wonderful for anyone who loves a dewy finish or prefers makeup that feels almost wet and invisible on the skin." It's also a good option if you have quite dry skin.
• Powder bronzers: "are great for anyone who wants easy application, buildable colour, and a softly sculpted effect."

If you're stuck on which option would best suit more mature skin, Geller reminds us that, "The biggest misconception is that mature skin should avoid powder altogether. That's simply not true. It's all about the quality of the formula."

Geller adds: "I always tell women not to choose based on age, choose based on the needs of your skin. If your skin is very dry, you may enjoy the feel of a cream bronzer. We make a fabulous cream bronzer that lives in our Best of the Best Cream Palette. But certainly, don't write off powder just because you've heard it's "ageing." A lightweight baked powder the way we make them at Laura Geller Beauty is incredibly forgiving, doesn't feel heavy, and gives skin a natural-looking warmth without looking flat or cakey. Use whatever makes you feel good!"

How to apply cream and powder bronzers

• Applying cream bronzer: "Start with less than you think you need. I like applying cream bronzer to the high points where the sun naturally hits, the forehead near the hairline, temples, cheekbones, and a touch along the jawline. Blend with a dense brush using soft tapping motions rather than dragging the product across the skin. You can always build more, but it's much harder to take away."
• Applying powder bronzer: Use a medium-sized fluffy brush, tap off any excess, and think of it as adding warmth rather than creating sharp contour. Sweep the bronzer around the perimeter of the face, across the forehead, temples, cheeks, and lightly under the jaw for a natural, sun-kissed effect. With a baked formula, I also recommend building gradually. My Retractable Angled Kabuki Brush is my personal favourite brush to use to apply bronzer."
• Layering the two: Geller recommends starting with cream and dusting on the powder with a light hand afterwards - using your fluffy brush.

Your 50s can bring about some of the most dramatic changes to your skin, largely thanks to the hormonal shifts that happen during and after menopause.

According to multi-award-winning aesthetic doctor Dr Ana Mansouri, founder of Dr Ana The Skin Clinic, many women notice that skin suddenly feels drier, thinner and less robust than before, while pigmentation, fine lines and loss of firmness also become more visible.

This happens as collagen and elastin production – the skin’s natural source of bounce and resilience – starts to decline more rapidly. “Broken sleep and insomnia are often symptoms of menopause, and this can have a significant impact because sleep is essential for skin repair,” she explains, adding that delicate areas such as the eyes, neck and décolletage often need more attention this decade, too.

With the onslaught of hormonal fluctuations during menopause, you might feel there’s little you can do to improve matters. But despite these changes, it doesn’t mean it’s time to wave the white flag. Instead, it’s about understanding what your skin needs now and giving it the comfort, hydration and care it deserves.

The best skincare routine to follow in your 50s, according to experts

Rather than overloading skin with strong acids or too many active ingredients, Dr Mansouri recommends focusing on hydration, barrier support and consistent SPF application. She warns that “over-exfoliating can weaken the skin barrier, leaving it irritated, dehydrated and more sensitive,” adding that, just as in any other decade of our lives, sun damage remains one of the biggest contributors to collagen breakdown and pigmentation.

You don’t need to spend a fortune or jump into a complicated routine, Dr Mansouri also insists. Instead, she advises tailoring your products to work with skin during and after menopause with ingredients such as ceramides, peptides, hyaluronic acid, richer moisturisers and gentle retinal products.

Hydrating serums, targeted best eye creams and replenishing overnight treatments can also help support repair while we sleep, with Dr Mansouri adding that the biggest improvements often come from consistency and focusing on overall skin health rather than trying to “aggressively anti-age.”

Step 1: Cleanse and comfort

With skin often becoming more reactive and dehydrated during perimenopause and menopause, the focus should shift towards thorough yet gentle cleansing, rather than harsh products or over-exfoliating the skin barrier.

Step 2: Deep hydration and barrier support

As natural oil production declines, skin often craves richer textures and moisture-replenishing ingredients to help restore comfort, bounce and resilience.

Step 3: Tighten up and strengthen

As collagen decline accelerates, peptides and gentle vitamin A products are particularly helpful for maintaining firmness, texture and skin quality in your 50s.

Step 4: Restore radiance and defend skin

Pigmentation and dullness often become more noticeable during menopause, so antioxidant protection and daily application of the best facial sunscreen are essential for helping skin look brighter, fresher and more even-toned.

Step 6: Extra helpers for delicate skin

The thinner skin around the eyes, neck and chest is often one of the first areas to show signs of menopause-related collagen decline, dryness and loss of elasticity, so in your 50s it’s worth investing in products designed specifically for these areas.

The expert’s no.1 in-clinic treatment for skin in its 50s

If she had to choose one approach for women in their 50s, Dr Ana Mansouri says she would opt for a combination of skin boosters and LPG Cellu M6 Infinity®. “Lymphatic drainage is so often overlooked, but it’s essential as a first step in improving overall skin quality,” she explains. Originally developed for physiotherapy, the LPG treatment uses precise cellular stimulation to support lymphatic drainage while also helping calm the nervous system, which can have knock-on benefits for the skin, too.

Dr Mansouri then combines this with regenerative injectable treatments such as Sculptra or polynucleotides, which help improve hydration, tissue repair and collagen stimulation for firmer, healthier and more radiant-looking skin. “The results are incredibly natural, which is something many women in this age group are looking for,” she says.

“Skin tends to look fresher, smoother and more rested without looking overdone.” She adds that they can work particularly well around delicate areas such as the eyes, where skin often becomes thinner and more crepey during menopause and beyond.

Do your hamstrings feel tight when you bend down to pick up the laundry, or try to do a forward fold in a yoga workout? Trust me, you’re not alone. I’ve been teaching yoga for almost 20 years, and tight hamstrings are easily one of the most common reasons that people come to my classes.

Stiffness and restriction in these important muscles can lead to lower back pain and poor posture. It can also increase your injury risk during exercise, especially if you’re doing explosive movements like plyometrics – or just running for the bus.

I can remember being unable to touch my toes as a teenager, and yoga has been really helpful in accessing more mobility - but only once I figured out how to be smart about my approach to stretching.

The half splits pose is my favourite exercise for stretching out tight hamstrings and improving low mobility. But you can do this move over and over with no results if you're only doing it passively. In my years of experience, I've learnt how to do it as effective strengthening yoga.

How to do half splits pose

• Step your right foot forward into a lunge. Bring your left knee down (pad it with a folded towel if it’s more comfortable) and place your hands on two blocks – the higher the better.
• Start to straighten your right knee, bringing your hips directly over your left knee (don’t sit back on your left heel here). You may have to slide your right heel forward an inch or two as I do.
• Bend your right knee a little so you can tilt your pelvis back, drawing your sitting bones up and your chest forward to keep your spine long. This moves the two ends of your hamstrings apart.
• Instead of just hanging out here, strongly press your heel down and try to drag it towards you to contract your hamstrings, like you’re trying to bend your knee. This sends a signal to a receptor where your hamstrings connect with tendons to release. Hold for up to 15 seconds.
• Now release the contraction, fully straighten your knee and contract your quadriceps at the front of your thigh. Flex your ankle so your toes draw back towards you too, bringing your calves on board.
• Hold this more passive stretch for between 30 seconds and one minute to override your nervous system’s bracing response.

Why are my hamstrings tight?

Your hamstrings are a group of three muscles sitting on the back of your upper leg. Their main job is to help bend your knee, but they also help lift your leg in front of you, so we use them all day long when walking, running, or sitting down/standing up from a chair.

Hamstrings feel tight for a couple of reasons. If you do a lot of exercise without stretching, these muscles could be quite strong, but they're not used to a wide range of motion. That means when you finally try to do that seated forward fold in class, your nervous system might go into fight-or-flight mode and tense up.

On the other hand, if you spend a good chunk of the day sitting down to work at a computer, your hamstrings may have become weak through underuse, and the surrounding connective tissue might have contracted. Because your hamstrings attach to your sitting bones, this can result in your pelvis being constantly “tucked,” or tilted forward, which can affect your posture and lower back. This can increase your risk of injury when you do finally start moving and stretching.

Many people also do yoga to loosen tight hips and glute exercises for similar reasons.

No matter the cause, your hamstrings are not actually short if they feel tight, and stretching them doesn’t make them longer. Your nervous system might just be trying to protect you from injury by contracting the muscle fibres when you want to lengthen them.

What is good mobility?

How do you know if you have good mobility? Well, you don't need to be striving to get your leg behind your head to stretch your hamstrings effectively. The key to functional movement lies in establishing enough mobility, so you perform daily tasks without pain, but not so much that you sacrifice stability. Strong hamstrings help protect your knees and stabilise the pelvis after all.

With the right approach to stretching and mobility exercises, you can temporarily lengthen the muscle fibres and surrounding connective tissues of your hamstrings. Over time and with consistent practice, this can provoke more permanent changes to the connective tissues and essentially retrain your nervous system to allow your muscles to release more.

I recently spent a week in the South of France (I promise I'll stop talking about it soon) and a few days before the flight I had a nightmare.

No, I'm not being dramatic, I literally had a nightmare during my usually-peaceful slumber, in which I vividly watched airport security empty my entire beauty bag into the bin. I'm talking my best face moisturiser and my favourite long-lasting perfume that both cost a pretty penny. I stared in disbelief before the panic set in...and then I woke up – thankfully.

It may have encouraged me to triple-check the security rules for the airports I was travelling to, but it got me thinking, what would I do if that happened? Fortunately, I've never been in that situation (yet), but a few days later I strolled through the airport making note of the essential beauty buys I would restock if I ever did find myself living out said nightmare in real life.

The 9 beauty buys I would restock before heading to my gate

If I had some time to spare before heading to my gate and catching a flight, I'd make sure I grabbed the necessities that tick every box, such as skincare, sun care and lightweight, radiant makeup buys that are perfect for holiday.

Alternatively, if you don't want to stress yourself out with the security restrictions, you can also order your buys in advance via the Boots and World Duty Free websites to pick up once you've arrived at the airport – easy peasy.

With Wimbledon rolling around again and more people enjoying sports like padel and pickleball, racket sports have never been more popular. They're fun, social, and a key driver of longevity, according to a study published just last year.

You might think you need a strong upper body for smashing all of those aces over the net, but strong legs and core are just as important when on the court. Isla Smith, Les Mills global assessor and LTA coach education tutor, says tennis “requires excellent connection between lower and upper body”.

“We use our legs to power upwards from the ground, our core to rotate the hips and our shoulders to ultimately wield the racket through the air using a combination of momentum, technique and sheer power to optimise performance," she says.

Some strength training exercises can help with this. While these are more complex than your basic dumbbell workout at home, all of this equipment you'll find in your local gym - or you can top up your home gym with a few must-haves.

Gym exercises for tennis

1. Medicine ball throws

A medicine ball is a firm, weighted ball which Isla says can be used during a tennis warm-up or during a conditioning session. They can range from 2kg up to 10kg.

Here's how to do a medicine ball throw:

• Hold the medicine ball in two hands.
• Bracing yourself, throw it as if hitting a forehand and backhand, either to a partner or against a wall.
• Make sure you choose the right medicine ball for your strength and ability.

2. Squats

“When playing tennis we are often forced to play off one leg, or certainly overloading one, so it's important each leg is strong and functional,” says Isla. She says squats can be a great way quadriceps exercise to build leg strength.

Single leg variations can also be beneficial, although these are quite advanced moves. “Plyometrics (also known as jump training) is big for tennis,” she explains. “So where squats and lunges can also be done as single leg plyometric exercises this will be very beneficial.” This could involve squat jumps, box jumps or split squats. Always make sure you land softly to protect your knees and ankles.

How to do a squat:

• Stand shoulder-width apart, holding a pair of dumbbells comfortably by your shoulders or by your sides.
• Slowly squat down as if you were sitting on a chair behind you.
• Come down so you are sitting parallel to the floor.
• Push through your feet to come up to standing.

3. Lunges

Isla suggests trying all types of lunges including “multi-directional, especially sideways and diagonally” to improve your quad, hamstring and glute strength.

“Play with tempo here, slow into the depth then explode up. This mimics what we require on a tennis court,” she explains.

How to do a lunge:

• Stand shoulder-width apart, then take a manageable step forward, sideways, or backwards.
• With or without weights by your sides, drop your back knee to the floor, until it sits a couple of inches off the floor. If you are doing a side squat, sit back and down into your lunge on your chosen leg.
• Push through your foot and return to standing.

4. Skaters

Skaters are “great for balance, core and individual leg strengthening,” says Isla, and they primarily work your hamstrings and glutes.

You need to propel your body sideways, landing on one foot, with the other hovering above the ground. You can also use your arms for extra momentum.

Here's how to do them:

• Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart on a smooth surface, like tile or hardwood floor. One foot should stand on the slider and the other stands on the floor.
• Keeping your chest up and core braced, push your hips back.
• Press your weight into the stationary foot, slide out the leg on the slider until it's fully extended.
• Bring your slider leg back in to the starting position.

5. Hip openers

Isla says many people who play tennis struggle to loosen tight hips, so she recommends they include some stretching exercises into any gym routine.

To finish, poses such as swan, pigeon or runner’s lunge can help any aches and give your hip flexors some extra flexibility.

Finding reliable activewear can feel like a never-ending quest, particularly as our bodies and wardrobe needs change. The best workout leggings stay firmly put during an exercise class, offer flattering support without feeling like a corset, and – crucially – come with functional pockets that don’t sag.

To see if Lululemon's high-waisted leggings truly live up to their premium reputation, we asked a member of our trusted reader Tester Network, Facey Williams, to put them through their paces. We wanted an honest, real-world assessment from someone whose busy daily life demands kit that performs as well on a wet dog walk as it does in a high-impact fitness class.

First impressions: quality you can feel

Fresh out of the packaging, the quality of these leggings was immediately apparent. Unlike cheaper alternatives that can feel thin, flimsy, or overly synthetic, the fabric has a reassuring substance to it.

"My first impression after unpacking them was how lovely the fabric felt; they felt like really beautiful quality," Facey notes. "The waistband is double thickness, so it sits incredibly well on the waist without ever feeling restrictive or digging in."

For women over 40, a waistband that sits flat without cutting into the midriff is often the holy grail of activewear design, and Lululemon hits the mark here.

Fit and design: a welcome confidence boost

Many of us look for activewear that offers a bit of gentle sculpting and support to boost our confidence, whether we're heading to a gym class or running errands. Facey found that the fabric delivered an incredibly supportive, contouring fit that moved well with her body.

"As soon as I put them on, they felt a bit like a second skin and they moved with absolute ease," she says. "They made me feel so supported when I wore them and they felt quite flattering, as they held in my stomach and bottom without feeling compressed."

Ultimate test: do they stay put?

There is nothing more frustrating than having to constantly hike up your leggings mid-run, or feeling the waistband roll down the moment you bend over. Thanks to the ultra-high rise and a clever, subtle internal adjustable band, these workout leggings stayed firmly in place throughout Facey’s packed schedule.

"They didn't rub and didn't ride up or down," Facey explains. "The waistband was brilliant because it is genuinely high-rise. It didn't budge when I was bending or stretching, meaning I didn't have to keep heaving them up when I was out and about."

Tested during an unpredictable British summer – which included both glorious dry spells and a few inevitably damp dog walks – the performance was entirely consistent. The fabric offers an exceptional amount of stretch, allowing for total freedom of movement during high-flexibility exercises like ballet and high-impact sports like tennis, all while remaining highly breathable.

Pockets, too!

Most workout leggings fall short when it comes to practical storage, often featuring tiny pockets that barely fit a house key. Lululemon has mastered the utility aspect here, providing deep, sleek pockets – and several of them.

"Most leggings I have worn do not have sufficient pockets, so this was an aspect I thought was incredibly useful," says Facey.

She found the pockets were easily deep enough to hold a smartphone and a heavy bunch of keys securely against the leg without sagging. Facey even put them to the test on the court:

"I really liked the pockets, and they were even big enough to hold a tennis ball securely and then snap back to being completely flat against the leg afterwards."

A small, sleek pocket at the back of the waistband also provides the perfect spot for carrying a bank card or coffee loyalty card.

Wash, wear and longevity

Premium activewear needs to withstand frequent laundering, and these leggings passed the durability test with flying colours, retaining their shape and stretch perfectly. However, Facey noticed a specific quirk that you'd only discover after genuinely living with the product.

"I washed the leggings after several uses, and when they were line-dried, I noticed they looked quite creased," she explains. "But there’s no need to panic – as soon as I put them on, the creases completely disappeared, and they looked brand new again."

They also dry remarkably quickly, which is ideal if you want a quick turnaround between workouts.

The verdict: are they worth It?

If you are looking to update your fitness wardrobe with a pair of leggings that look as good as they perform, these easily earn their keep. While they sit firmly at the investment end of the market, our tester found that they comfortably outperformed other premium brands she usually relies on.

"They felt more supportive than other leggings I have, including my Sweaty Betty ones," Facey concludes. "Having tested these Lululemon leggings, I completely understand why they are priced as they are. Yes, they are an investment, but I would genuinely say they are better than the other high-end leggings I already own. I would absolutely buy them myself."

Whether you need a high-performing tight for the court or a comfortable, stylish pair of leggings for walking the dogs and catching up with friends, they tick every single box for a busy lifestyle.

The highlights

• Superior, flattering fit: Excellent support that gently sculpts the core and glutes without feeling restrictive.
• No-roll waistband: High, double-thickness waist with an inner tie that completely eliminates the need to constantly pull them up.
• Perfect pockets: Deep, flat-laying pockets that easily accommodate phones, keys, or tennis balls without losing their shape.
• A sophisticated alternative: The deep brown shade tested offers a softer, chic alternative to standard black gym gear.

Things to consider

• Premium price tag: They require a higher upfront spend, though the cost-per-wear value is exceptional given the durability.
• Length considerations: At 5'2", our tester found the regular length ideal but noted that a slightly shorter crop would suit petite frames beautifully. (Fortunately, Lululemon offers various inseam lengths, including 25-inch and cropped versions, to help you find the perfect fit).

Lululemon leggings: at a glance

We've all been there, going through the mad panic when the garden's an absolute mess but your family BBQ is set to kick off in mere hours. And while it can feel like there's no way to get ready in time, sticking to these five jobs can help.

Sorting your garden out before you have friends and family over for some al fresco dinner can feel incredibly overwhelming. Even when you've tried to keep up with your summer gardening jobs, all it takes is some rather erratic weather, and all your hard work is gone overnight.

However, if you've got a few hours to spare before your guests arrive, these are the five jobs experts recommend checking off your list to have your garden ready to enjoy in no time.

5 easy garden jobs to do before guests arrive

Whether you're trying out a new garden party idea or have invited friends round for dinner at the last minute, here are five things you should do to get your garden guest-ready.

1. Tidy up your lawn

Although it's not advisable to cut grass in hot weather, if the weather permits, cutting your lawn is a great place to start.

"If you're short on time, always start with the lawn. It's the largest feature in most gardens, so getting it looking neat has the biggest impact. A freshly cut lawn instantly makes the whole space feel tidier, brighter and more cared for, while long or uneven grass can make even the most beautifully planted garden feel neglected," starts Alexandra Alguel, smart home living and gardening expert at ECOVACS.

"I always recommend giving the edges a quick trim too, as crisp borders create a much more polished finish. If you use an automated lawn mower, keeping the grass consistently maintained every few weeks means it's one less thing to worry about before guests arrive. Your garden is always ready to enjoy," she continues.

You won't exactly be able to make your grass greener within hours, but just doing this will make a huge difference.

2. Clear clutter and sweep away debris

You don't need to start cleaning your patio slabs, but getting your garden brush out and sweeping around will immediately improve your space's appearance.

"Patios, decking and pathways naturally collect leaves, grass clippings and general debris, particularly during the summer. A quick sweep can make a surprising difference. It's also worth putting away watering cans, children's toys, empty plant pots and garden tools," says Alexandra.

"You don't need to hide signs that the garden is lived in, but removing everyday clutter helps guests focus on the space itself rather than what's been left lying around," she adds.

It isn't time to do an overhaul and declutter your shed; instead, tidying the messiest parts and removing the bulk of the clutter is more than enough.

3. Clean up outdoor furniture

When you have some of the best outdoor furniture on the market, the last thing you want is for it to be covered in dirt and debris when your guests go to sit on it.

"Garden furniture works hard during the summer months, but it's often forgotten about until guests are already on their way," says the cleaning experts at Method.

"Before hosting, give tables, chairs and outdoor cushions a quick once-over to remove dust, pollen and any unwanted bird deposits. After all, bird droppings may be lucky, but not when they're ruining the furniture! Pay particular attention to armrests and tabletops, where grime can quietly build up over time," they explain.

Cleaning wooden garden furniture may be a little more work, but the results are certainly worth it.

4. Create a serving station

In terms of the actual outdoor dining essentials, doing some hosting prep before your friends and family arrive can save you time and effort when the soiree begins.

"When you're hosting, the last thing you want is to be constantly running back and forth to the kitchen. Before guests arrive, set up a dedicated outdoor serving station with everything you'll need for the day - think plates, napkins, condiments, drinks and serving utensils all in one place," start the cleaning experts at Method.

"Not only will this make hosting feel more effortless, but it'll also help minimise spills and last-minute scrambling once everyone arrives. Before setting up, give tables and serving areas a thorough wipe down with a multi-surface cleaner to ensure they're fresh, hygienic and ready for food and drink," they continue.

"Keep a small basket stocked with essentials such as napkins, bottle openers and bin bags on your patio. Having everything within easy reach means you can spend less time stressing and searching for supplies and more time enjoying the sunshine with your guests," finish Method's cleaning experts.

It will also mean that when the time comes for people to leave, you won't have such a huge job on your hands cleaning up. Win-win!

5. Layer lighting

Having good-quality outdoor lighting will not only make your garden look more expensive, but it will also help keep your space illuminated all night.

“Lighting has a huge impact on how comfortable and inviting a space feels after sunset,” says Magdalena. “A mix of lanterns, rechargeable lamps, candles and solar-powered string lights creates a softer and more relaxed atmosphere without requiring permanent changes,” says Magdalena Gierasinsk, head of product at Barker and Stonehouse.

She adds, “Layering lighting at different heights helps gardens feel warmer and more styled overall. Even simple additions around a dining table or seating area can completely change the mood of the space and encourage guests to stay outside longer.”

FAQs

How to make a summer garden more inviting?

If you want to transform your garden on a budget so it's better suited for inviting guests or even for yourself to relax and enjoy, simply make it feel more welcoming.

"An inviting garden encourages people to slow down and stay a little longer. Rather than trying to make everything look perfect, think about how guests will experience the space," points out Alexandra.

"I always recommend creating a natural focal point, whether that's a dining table, a fire pit or a cosy seating area, and then using planting to soften the space around it. Pots of seasonal flowers or scented plants near where people gather can make the garden feel much more vibrant and lived in," she adds.

What is the most important thing to do in the garden before guests arrive?

Should you be incredibly strapped for time but know your garden needs a refresh, there is one job you should prioritise before your guests arrive.

"The most important thing is often the thing people overlook: the lawn. Many homeowners understandably focus first on wiping down furniture, arranging cushions or setting the table, but the grass is what creates the overall feeling of the garden," explains Alexandra.

"A freshly cut lawn instantly makes the whole space feel calmer, cleaner and more cared for. It's often the first thing guests notice as they walk into the garden, and it's the surface they'll be walking, standing and, if the weather's warm enough, even sitting or playing on. There's a real difference between stepping onto long, uneven grass and walking barefoot across a neatly maintained lawn. It completely changes how welcoming the garden feels," she continues.

So even if you only have an hour to spare, cutting and tidying your lawn should be at the top of your list.

Should you have a little money and time to invest in your garden, why not try out some outdoor living room ideas? They can make your space better suited for company and encourage you to spend more time out in the garden.

If you were to ask any of my fellow woman&home team members, they'll all tell you how I'm a beauty box expert. Having had eyes on almost every edit on the market, I know when I spot a good'un.

Summer can have a real effect on your strands, from sun and salty seawater to chlorine (not to mention, rogue spritzes of suncream), meaning you might be in the market for one of the best hair masks or a detoxing shampoo to revive your tresses. Take me for example, I just got back from a recent trip to the South of France and returned with hair that felt frazzled, thanks to a week of swimming in the sea everyday.

Fortunately, Boots have heard our concerns with the launch of their latest limited-edition beauty box, which is jam-packed full of luxury haircare buys from a plethora of top-shelf brands. Here's everything you need to know about it...

What's inside the Boots Premium Hair Edit Beauty Box

Nestled inside this box, you'll find one of the best heat protection sprays for dry, damaged hair and one of the best dry shampoos that gives oily strands a freshly-washed appearance – plus, much more.

In fact, it seems the standout contents have left quite the impression on shoppers too, with the box boasting an impressive average star rating of 4.9 out of five from the customers that have already got their hands on the edit.

• Amika Soulstruck Nourishing Leave-in Dry Hair Mask 200ml – Full size
• Aveda Botanical Repair Stengthening Leave - In Treatment 100ml – Full size
• Rehab Dose 1.0 Hair Oil Capsules 30ml – Full size
• Wella Professionals Ultimate Color Sulphate-Free Shampoo 250ml – Full size
• FUL Styling Spray 100ml – Full size
• Philip Kingsley Elasticizer Extreme Rich Deep-Conditioning Treatment 75ml – Full size
• Tangle Teezer Detangling Hairbrush Matte Collection in the shade Porcelain Cream – Full size
• Sol De Janeiro Brazilian Joia Milky Leave in Conditioner 30ml
• Living Proof Perfect Hair Day Advanced Clean Dry Shampoo 90ml
• Nuxe Hair Prodigieux Pre Wash Shampoo 30ml
• JVN Complete Air Dry Cream 14.6ml
• Kerastase Nutritive Lait Vital High Nutrition Ultra-Light Conditioner 75ml
• Kerastase Nutritive Bain Satin Riche Shampoo 80ml
• JVN Soft Hair Clips

Where to buy the Boots Premium Hair Edit Beauty Box

Looking to get your hands on the box? You'll be able to shop it exclusively online at the Boots website. However, you can also make the most of the free click and collect service and get the box delivered to your nearest Boots store. Alternatively, you'll also qualify for free standard delivery – or you can get it next-day delivery for an extra £5.95.

How long is the Boots Premium Hair Edit Beauty Box available to shop?

If this isn't your first Boots beauty box rodeo, you'll know that there's never a specific end date for these edits. The website claims the limited-edition box is only available while stocks last, however Boots are known for their beauty boxes flying off the shelves. So, if you're wanting to get ahold of it, you're best adding it to your basket sooner rather than later to avoid missing out.

When it comes to the plants in our gardens, maximum growth is usually a good thing, no matter what it looks like. However, if your tomato plants are growing a little too tall, perhaps to their own detriment, it's wise to put a stop to it.

Whether you're learning vegetable gardening for beginners this year or growing tomato plants for the first time, you might be surprised by how large and tall they can grow. Even if you're not restricted by a small garden, allowing them to grow too can block light for other plants and become a bit of a nuisance to care for.

If you're dealing with rather unusually tall tomato plants, don't fret; we spoke to the garden experts to find out how best to 'downsize' them without damaging or decreasing their harvest.

How to stop tomato plants from growing too tall

While you might've been pruning your tomatoes properly throughout their growing process, they can often grow faster than you anticipated, and for whatever reason, you might need them to stop.

"To stop tomato plants from growing too tall, you should remove the top growing tip from your tomato plant. Simply identify the main stem and use a clean, sharp pair of pruners to cut off the top of the stem, ensuring you leave two leaves above the highest developing flower clusters," advises Lucie Bradley, gardening expert at Easy Garden Irrigation.

"After this has been done, you may find that your plant tries to develop new vertical shoots lower down the plant – make sure to remove these, so your plant directs all its sugars and nutrients to its fruits rather than new growth," she adds.

It might seem like you're taking away from the plant, but this can actually help you get more fruit out of your tomato plants this summer.

What happens if you cut the top off of a tomato plant?

Before you use your essential gardening tool and lop off the top of your tomato plant, you may be wondering what happens next.

"When you use a sharp, clean pair of pruners to remove the growing tip from your tomato plants, leaving about two leaves above the highest truss, your plant will start putting on vertical growth and divert its energies into opening the fruits it is producing," Lucie explains. "This can be both a positive and a negative step, and you must get the timing right."

"By removing the growing tip, you are essentially telling the plant to stop making new foliage and flowers, so it caps the number of fruits you will get from the plant. Many gardeners ‘top’ their plants when sufficient trusses have already appeared so that they will all grow to a good size and will ripen," Lucie explains.

"If you were to simply leave your plants to keep growing, you would likely end up with more flowers and more fruits appearing, but they don’t often have sufficient time to mature and ripen before the end of the season," she adds.

So while it may feel like you're losing out, you're actually being saved the hassle of trying to ripen green tomatoes for all of the late summertime.

Should you stop tomato plants from growing any higher?

Should you be debating whether it's worth the chop, you can wait until later in the year and prune them in August.

"It is best to stop tomato plants from growing taller roughly a month to a month and a half before the first frosts," says Richard Barker, horticulture expert and Commercial Director at LBS Horticulture. "This is because it will stop the plant from using its energy to produce more flowers and upward growth, redirecting it to green fruit to help them mature and ripen before they are potentially destroyed by the weather."

Why are my tomato plants growing so tall and spindly?

Noticed your tomato plants aren't looking quite right? Sometimes they can grow a little straggly, which isn't ideal for their health or fruit production. One of the main reasons for this is whether your garden is north-facing or has lots of shade.

"The most common reason that tomato plants grow tall and spindly is due to insufficient light – which can be a result of general weather conditions, the location of your plants or how close your plants are positioned in relation to their neighbours," says Lucie.

"Insufficient light causes your plants to trigger a survival mode called ‘etiolation’, where the plant directs its energy into extending its stems to reach light. As the stems are stretched by this rapid growth, the spaces between sets of branches become longer, resulting in plants with less foliage and tall, thinner, weaker stems," she finishes.

Tomato plants are not one of the best for thriving in shade, so ensure you have a sunny enough spot for them before you start growing your own.

Have you noticed your tomatoes are splitting? There are a few reasons this happens, but it's preventable and can be stopped even when it's already started.

Following the rise of 'barely-there' nail looks and an increased focus on health rather than just aesthetics, the Japanese pedicure is in high demand. But what is it and how does it differ from a classic polish or gel treatment?

Unlike the rest of summer 2026's pedicure trends, this look does not feature any bright pops of red, blue or any other timeless pedicure colour for that matter. In fact, there's no nail polish, full stop, but you wouldn't know it from the shiny finish that toes possess afterwards. Like the Japanese manicure, its pedi counterpart is all about restoring and enhancing your natural nails, not masking them with layer upon layer of colour. Thus making it a lovely option for fans of more minimalistic looks or those who feel that their nails aren't in the best condition.

So, if you're keen to let your natural talons shine (quite literally) and book in for this trendy treatment, we've quizzed the experts on everything you need to know. From what a Japanese pedicure involves, step by step, to how to prep your feet for one.

What is a Japanese pedicure?

"A Japanese pedicure is a treatment that focuses on restoring the natural health and appearance of the nails rather than applying colour," explains Juanita Huber-Millet, Founder and Creative Director at Townhouse. "The technique originates from Japan and centres around nourishing the nail plate with mineral-rich pastes, buffing the surface to create a healthy natural shine and improving the overall condition of the feet and nails.

"It’s less about covering the nail and more about enhancing what’s already there, which is one of the reasons it’s become so popular in recent years."

What does it involve, step by step?

Huber-Millet says that, "While every salon may approach it slightly differently, a Japanese pedicure typically includes detailed nail and cuticle care, gentle exfoliation, buffing and the application of nourishing ingredients designed to strengthen and condition the natural nail," before adding, "The end result is healthy-looking nails with a subtle sheen rather than a painted look.”

In leading London wellness and aesthetics salon Young LDN, Notting Hill, Founder Susan Carroll says they start, "with a warm foot soak to soften the skin and prepare the nails, then work through shaping, cuticle care and thorough hard skin removal."

"The treatment really comes into its own when we apply the mineral paste, which gets buffed into the nail plate in a specific technique that opens up the nail surface and allows the ingredients to absorb properly. A fine sealing powder goes on after to lock in those nutrients and create the shine.

"We finish with a hydrating massage to soften and nourish the skin. By the end, your feet feel genuinely different, not just cleaner, and your nails have a healthy, well-groomed look without a drop of polish in sight."

Our healthy nail picks

If you're looking to give your toes a pampering at-home, or have just had a Japanese pedicure and want to ensure it lasts, we recommend investing in a cuticle oil or balm and applying it regularly. One of the best foot creams is also key to warding off dryness and rough skin.

How does it differ from other pedicures?

So, how does this in-salon treatment differ from your average gel pedicure? Well, according to the experts, it's all about restoring and boosting the condition of your nails, rather than coating them in polishes.

"A regular pedicure is largely about the finished colour. The nail is essentially a canvas for whatever polish, gel or art goes on top. A Japanese pedicure flips that entirely," says Carroll. "There's no coating, no colour, nothing sitting on the surface. The treatment works with the nail itself to improve its condition from within.

"The results build over time too, which is quite different from a standard pedicure where you're essentially starting from scratch each time. Clients who come regularly start to notice a genuine improvement in the strength and texture of their nails.

Why is it so popular?

Hyper-natural nail trends and treatments have been growing in demand for quite some time now, with many of the 2026 nail trends, in fact, revolving around a theme of 'care first, cosmetic second.'

As Huber-Millet notes, "Customers are becoming much more educated about the condition of their nails and are increasingly looking for treatments that improve their natural nail quality.

"The rise of minimalist beauty trends has also played a role. Just as we’re seeing more people embrace barely-there makeup and healthy skin, we’re seeing the same shift towards naturally beautiful nails and feet."

How to prep for your Japanese pedi appointment

1. Remove any existing polish
2. Moisturise your feet for a few days before
3. Leave the rest to the pros

If you're keen to book in for a Japanese pedi but want to prep your feet a little first, Carroll says to just, "Remove any existing polish before you come in if you can, and spend a few days moisturising your feet beforehand - it makes a real difference to how the treatment performs."

As for the rest, leave it to your nail tech: "Leave your cuticles and hard skin alone. I know it's tempting to tidy things up before an appointment, but you'll get far better results if you let your therapist handle it properly.

"If you've recently had gel removed, just flag it when you arrive so we can tailor the treatment accordingly. Other than that, clean feet and you're done. The whole point of a Japanese pedicure is restoration, so the less you interfere in the run-up, the more dramatic the results tend to be."

While the bird dog exercise mainly works the core muscles, improving stability and strength, it also targets the lower back, shoulders, hamstrings, and glutes, making it one of the better full-body exercises you can do.

Over the years, I've done plank after plank and seen few benefits. It's just not the exercise for me. I can hold the position for about a minute before everything starts shaking and my forehead starts sweating. Even with practice, it feels torturous.

At the end of a beginner's Pilates class one day, I was talking to my teacher, and she recommended the bird dog exercise to me. She suggested it wouldn't cause so much discomfort, but it could still help improve my fitness. As she also recommended the dead bug exercise to me (which I love), I knew I needed to try it.

How to do the bird dog exercise

This exercise starts on all fours, on a thick yoga mat for extra comfort if you want it. Sam Deville, a Pilates instructor and founder of a dynamic online platform of the same name, calls this exercise 'swimming' in her classes. She says: "It's a brilliant move for strengthening the posterior chain (muscles on the back of your body). It looks simple, but when done with proper form, it fires up everything from your glutes and hamstrings to your core and shoulders."

Here's how to do it:

• Extend one arm forward and the opposite leg back, reaching long through both ends without collapsing into the shoulders or lower back.
• Keep your core engaged and spine in a neutral position. Make sure your hips aren't rocking or twisting.
• Pause briefly at the top, then return your arm and leg to the centre.
• Repeat the exercise for 10 slow reps, says Deville, focusing on control and alignment.

Expert tip for the bird dog exercise: “A great form-check tip is to place a soft, half-deflated ball on your lower back," says Deville. "If it rolls off, you’ll know your hips or core need more control. It’s a really nice, simple but effective way to get instant feedback."

Benefits of the bird dog exercise

• Boosts core strength: In the bird dog, you have to keep your core strong to stop yourself from leaning to one side or sinking, much like in the plank. When done correctly, this exercise "gently works the abdominal muscles, says Susie Martin, a Pilates instructor and physiotherapist who works with Complete Pilates.
• Improves stability: "You might think you're fit and strong, but get into the bird dog, and you'll find out. You might be wobbling all over the place," says Martin. The exercise challenges your full-body stability, which can help in other activities where you have to "transfer power from your legs to your upper body", she notes, such as racquet sports or strength training.
• Good stretch: It felt like a lovely way to stretch out and unwind at the end of the day after sitting hunched over my computer, and it's a good way to start the day and get my blood pumping.
• Increases upper-body strength: The bird dog puts us in an unusual position, which means muscle groups are used differently. "It encourages weight bearing through the upper body, which is good for shoulder strength and function," she says. Plus, you don't need any weights to do it, making it suitable for a Pilates workout at home or a gym session.
• Aids spinal alignment: Deville says the exercise is also a good option for those with lower back issues as it "builds strength through the back and core without putting too much pressure on the spine". Always consult your doctor before trying a new exercise if you have these issues, however.

Can you do a weighted bird dog?

Adding weights can make a bird dog harder, helping beginners improve core strength and stability even more, says Deville. You can use dumbbells or ankle weights for this exercise, but an easier way is to incorporate a set of the best resistance bands. These rubber bands are cheap to buy, easy to store at home, and can spread the resistance out from arm to foot, unlike other weight types.

How to do a weighted bird dog with bands

• Set up in the regular bird dog position on all fours.
• Wrap a resistance band around the ankle of the leg that's stretching out first, bringing it forward and looping it through your fingers of the opposite hand.
• Keeping your core tight and in a controlled way, extend the weighted arm forward and the opposite weighted leg away from each other.

Is the bird dog better than a plank?

The bird dog and the plank have a place in a Pilates abs workout, the experts say. However, beginners may find more benefits with the bird dog exercise, at least to begin with, since it's more adaptable. You can make it harder or easier with variations or even ankle weights.

However, they are different. “A plank is more intense on the anterior (front) core, while bird dog targets the back body and really challenges the deep stabilisers,” says Deville.

Just like how a squat and the clamshell exercise are equally great at building lower-body strength, but work slightly differently.

Martin recommends learning the proper form for a plank and incorporating both exercises into your workouts, if you can. “The plank is more challenging in terms of higher load for the abdominal and back muscles, which makes it good for those who want to challenge absolute levels of strength,” she says, adding that the bird dog is good for challenging your stability and balance.

How long should you hold the bird dog pose for?

You don’t need to hold the bird dog pose for long for it to be effective. If you want to work on your endurance and balance, Deville recommends holding at the top for five to 10 seconds. But she adds that control, extending and returning your arms and legs with precision, is most important.

Several members of the woman&home team and I were lucky enough to spend a day at Royal Ascot just recently, and we asked lots of glamorous racegoers what they were wearing. Everyone looked so sophisticated, and the answer we heard more than any other was "it's from Phase Eight!"

Good news, then, if you've got an event coming up soon, because the Phase Eight up to 60% off sale is in full swing, and I'm genuinely astonished at the bargains that are on offer. I've got chic jumpsuits, heatwave-friendly linen, wedding guest-ready dresses, shoes you can dance the night away in and even hats on my wishlist. Happy shopping...

Phase Eight sale - now on

My top tips for navigating the Phase Eight sale? The British clothing brand is famous for its well-fitting jumpsuits and polished dresses, so I'd start there. Sizes range from UK 6 to 20, and there are often petite options available, too. Filters are your friend when it comes to sale shopping - there's nothing worse than falling in love with a style only to find they don't have your size!

Phase Eight sale: dresses and jumpsuits

Phase Eight sale: tops, skirts and trousers

Phase Eight sale: shoes

Phase Eight sale: accessorises

Certainly, it's hard to do in a heatwave, but if you're a really keen bargain hunter, one of the best things to do is shop out of season. If you can bear thinking about coats and jackets right now, you can find some amazing options in the Phase Eight sale.

It wouldn't be an understatement to say we've unboxed almost every beauty box on the market. In fact, it's our speciality, meaning we're well-versed in knowing when one shouldn't be missed out on.

Speaking of which, No7 just released their Your Summer Icons edit, an all-new limited edition beauty box. The thing that sets it apart from the rest? This curated lineup features all full-sized bestselling skincare and makeup buys (eight to be exact), including the best face moisturiser and the best tubing mascara.

We were lucky enough to get our hands on the edit before the launch day, so naturally we're here to give you a full unboxing before you invest. From its anticipated contents and price tag to how long it'll be sticking around for, we've got everything you need to know.

What's inside the No7 Your Summer Icons Beauty Box?

If you're anything like us, you'll be most intrigued to discover the exact contents inside. Fortunately, we've put together a list of the eight buys that you'll be treated to, including one of the best cleansers and a long-lasting lipstick.

• No7 Prime Forever Serum 50ml
• No7 Future Renew Day Cream SPF40 50ml
• No7 Instant Results Nourishing Hydration Mask 100ml
• No7 Airbrush Away Primer 30ml
• No7 Pro Artist Tubing Mascara
• No7 Foaming Cleanser 150ml
• No7 Pro Artist Matte Muse Lipstick in 'Rose Couture'
• No7 Pro Artist Eyeshadow Quad in 'Lights, Camera, Action'

Where to buy the No7 Your Summer Icons Beauty Box

Eyeing up the No7 Your Summer Icons Beauty Box? You'll be able to purchase it via Boots or the No7 website. If you opt for the former, you can enjoy the free click and collect service to your nearest Boots store. Alternatively, you will qualify for free standard delivery or you can make the most of next-day delivery for an extra £5.95.

How long is the No7 Your Summer Icons Beauty Box available to shop?

As is the case with any beauty box, we're still unsure of the specific end date for the No7 Your Summer Icons edit. However, it will most likely only be available to shop while stocks last, so if you're thinking of snapping it up, it's best to do it sooner rather than later to avoid missing out.

Liz Earle believes it’s never too late to age better, and she loves sharing her fitness and wellbeing tips on her lifestyle platform. She's a skincare expert, but the 63-year-old also regularly walks her followers through her strength training routines.

While she often shares upper-body workouts and those with leg and glute exercises, in a recent video, Liz reveals: "I don't do any exercises for my stomach. I think that the way that women have been taught to think about exercise has been so focused on our appearance. And I really want us to be thinking about health span. So that's how strong, healthy, and happy and mobile we can feel in our later years. And this is so much more important than having washboard abs."

Speaking from her home gym, she says: "When it comes to exercises for my core, I'm really not doing crunches day in, day out." While these core exercises can help improve core strength, she says she prefers doing a "broader range of exercises" that focus on different parts of the body and work the core as a "byproduct" or a "beneficial side effect".

In a video posted on her Liz Earle Wellbeing YouTube channel, the businesswoman shares some of her exercise and lifestyle hacks for strengthening her core. She says simple exercises or movements many people are familiar with can give our core a “sneaky workout” too.

1. Squat

One of the key exercises Liz does to improve her core strength is weighted squats. Demonstrating with 8kg dumbbells, she explains that her personal trainer emphasised the importance of bringing your navel to your spine when you do these exercises.

This will stabilise your lower back and activate your abdominal muscles while you’re working out. She says doing this while you squat will “automatically firm and tone” up your core.

2. Push-ups

“Push-ups are really good for the arms, but you’re toning your core at the same time. Because even if you’re doing them on your knees instead of a full plank, you’ve got to engage your core while you do them,” says Liz.

Engaging your core will help to improve your core strength by getting all the muscles in this area (deep and superficial) to work together as one unit.

3. Planks

If you can't do a full push-up, then a plank is a good place to start. Just hold this position with straight or bent arms for as long as you can.

4. Balance exercises

Liz has another suggestion for an easy way for you to improve your core strength and balance, and it’s one all of us can do twice a day. She stands on one leg while she’s brushing her teeth. She says she’s been doing this for so long now that she doesn’t “even think about it” anymore.

She will stand on one leg and then swap halfway through. “You will feel your (core) muscles engage, because you need them to balance,” she tells viewers.

It's not only core and mobility exercises that Liz says have made a difference in her life. Prioritising protein has been a “game-changer” for her by “supporting my strength but also keeping me full so I don’t overeat”.

She aims for 25-30g of protein at every meal and will have a protein shake during the day too if she’s done a workout. She suggests sneaking protein powder into your diet in several ways, from drinking it to adding it to pasta sauce or soup. Protein supplements can also be beneficial for people who follow a vegan or vegetarian diet.

If you eat a balanced diet with plenty of lean meat, fish, eggs, beans, nuts, tofu and lentils, you may not need anything extra.

For all the feel-good benefits of bright summer days, there’s one beauty dilemma that never seems to go away – how to stop sunglasses ruining your makeup.

It's the same old summer tale: you meticulously apply your makeup in the morning (primer and all), only to slip on your sunglasses and discover, an hour later, two tell-tale foundation marks either side of your nose. Frustrating? Absolutely. Preventable? According to beauty experts, quite possibly.

"When the temperatures rise, it can feel like there's an extra layer of maintenance," says Annabelle Taurua, beauty expert at Fresha. "From carrying a fan to blotting paper, sunglasses or a sun hat, keeping your makeup in check over summer can feel like a full-time job."

The good news, she adds, is that "summer makeup doesn't have to be about striving for perfection" – instead, a few simple adaptations can help your routine (and the accessories that come with it) work with the heat, rather than against it.

1. Create a barrier with loose powder

If your best lightweight foundation always transfers onto your sunglasses, a little strategic powder could help. Rather than dusting it all over your face, Taurua recommends concentrating on the areas where your sunglasses make contact with your skin.

"Applying a small amount of loose setting powder can be a simple trick to stop this from happening," she says. "Apply it to the bridge of your nose and the inner frame of your glasses. This creates a barrier, absorbs excess oil and stops makeup transfer."

For best results, use a powder puff or beauty sponge to gently press the powder into the skin, rather than sweeping it on with a brush. Taurua also recommends spritzing your setting spray onto skin before applying powder to create an even longer-lasting finish.

2. Give your sunglasses a quick clean

Your makeup might not be the only culprit. Throughout the day, your sunglasses naturally collect oil, skincare residue and sweat, all of which can transfer back onto freshly applied makeup the next time you wear them.

"It's also important to clean your sunglasses before every use, as oil from your skin can easily transfer and can break down makeup and cause further marks on your skin," says Taurua. "Salt and sand, depending on your location, can also be an added irritant."

A quick wipe of the nose pads and inner frames with anti-bac before you head out can help minimise makeup transfer, while also keeping your sunglasses more hygienic during the warmer months.

3. Check the fit of your frames

If you constantly find yourself pushing your sunglasses back up your nose, the issue may have less to do with your makeup and more to do with the fit of your frames. The more movement and pressure there is, the more likely your foundation is to shift.

"Well-fitting sunglasses can also make a big difference," Taurua explains. "If the pads fit too tightly, they'll press into your face and make it feel uncomfortable. The same applies if you find yourself pushing your glasses up frequently."

The good news is that you don't necessarily need a new pair. Most opticians can adjust the fit of your sunglasses, even if you didn't buy them there, helping them sit more comfortably – and with a little less disruption to your base.

While we might be experiencing a little coolness post-heatwave, the word on the street is that another is on the way. And with the memories of sweating, terrible sleep and general humid discomfort still fresh in our minds, any cooling hack is worth a try. Right?

Even when you've managed to avoid all the common cooling mistakes making your home warmer, these heatwaves are no joke, and our houses are simply not built to withstand them. But with most UK homes struggling without that delicious coolness of AC, the problem of how to keep cool in summer remains.

When the heatwaves hit, our algorithms usually show us just about every potential cooling hack under the sun, but it's hard to know which ones hold any truth. One you may have seen is the trick of putting foil over windows, but does it actually work, or are you using up your leftover wrapping for no good reason?

Does foil on windows keep the heat out?

Although it's advised to keep your curtains closed in hot weather, blocking out all that natural light in your home is not always ideal. But when heatwaves hit, letting sunlight in is simply not an option. Which is where the foil hack comes in.

Is the foil on windows another helpful cooling window hack, or is it just another viral trend that doesn't have much truth behind it?

"Aluminium foil can help reflect some of the sun's heat away from a window, which may reduce the amount of heat entering a room. However, it's generally a temporary DIY solution rather than a long-term fix," says Micky Calcott, founder of The Window Film Company.

It's also worth mentioning that it will take quite a lot of foil to cover all your home's windows, and of course, it will completely block all light out, which introduces various issues itself.

 Does reflective window film work to keep the heat out?

Trying to keep your rooms cool without AC? You've probably come across the idea of window films on your search for cooling solutions, and whilst it's similar to the foil hack, this method actually works.

"Yes. Professionally designed window films are specifically engineered to reduce solar heat gain while still allowing you to see out. Our reflective window films can reduce heat by up to 78%, helping to keep interiors cooler and more comfortable during hot weather," explains Micky.

This sort of window film can also keep your home warm for less. It works as a type of insulation to regulate your home's heat. So whilst it might seem like an investment, it will benefit you all year round, no matter the weather.

Is it bad to put aluminium foil on windows?

From expert fan hacks to viral cleaning methods, it can be difficult to separate a useless internet fad from a genuinely helpful expert solution. Unfortunately, aluminium foil is not as helpful as it seems.

"While aluminium foil may provide some temporary heat reduction, it's not an ideal long-term solution. It can be difficult to apply neatly, may come away over time, may block your view, and is unlikely to provide the same appearance or durability as a purpose-made window film," says Micky.

If you don't want to spend too much covering every window in your home with specialist window film and mostly struggle sleeping in the heat, it's worth treating your bedroom windows at least.

It can feel like an impossible task keeping a bedroom cool in a heatwave, but with the best cooling fans and some good quality window film on your side, you'll be able to find some much-needed respite.

We're spoilt for choice when it comes to summer manicure inspiration; however, if you want something juicy and almost-delectable, we've spotted just the nail trend for you.

If you were to take a look at the list of 2026 nail trends, you'll see that minimalism is very much a popular choice – as has been the case for the past few years. That said, it's only natural that we turn to brighter, playful hues for our summer nails.

With this year's Wimbledon in full swing, we've been keeping our eye on the ball to scout out the manicures those in the know are wearing. Most notably, we've spotted the A-listers trading in their pared-back manis for colourful designs that resemble one of summer's favoured fruit-filled drinks – Pimm's. Here's our courtside commentary, from your resident nail experts.

Tennis balls and rackets aside, the players aren't the only ones serving. In fact, the star-studded attendees of the annual tennis event also deliver an assortment of beauty inspiration – namely, ideas for our next manicure.

Last year, it was all about strawberries and cream Wimbledon nails, a milky, sheer pink that pairs gorgeously with any and every outfit. However, 2026 is surprisingly taking a more playful approach with bolder, more colourful options, such as reds, greens and oranges.

3 Pimm's-inspired nail looks to try this summer

If you're strapped for summer nail inspiration, take note from the celebrities that have stepped out at Wimbledon 2026 sporting the following vibrant fruity nail polish options...

Rachel Stevens' strawberry red nails

Singer Rachel Stevens was pictured adorning a classic strawberry-red polish on her chic almond nails. Its vibrant-yet-wearable hue popped against her black printed summer dress. The mani was paired with an ultra-glossy finish, which further enhanced the juiciness of the colour.

Ashley James' cucumber nails

Despite being dressed in a red and pink polka-dot dress, host Ashley James opted for a shade that you don't typically spot on many – a soft pastel green. While more unusual than a red or blue, this cucumber-esque hue is apt for the sunny season and pairs effortlessly with a short, rounded nail shape.

Lorraine Kelly's raspberry nails

Continuing the berry trend, Lorraine Kelly stepped out at the annual tennis event with a deeper raspberry shade gracing her talons. The ITV presenter paired the shade with an elegant short square nail shape that serves well for not only the summer months, but all throughout the year too.

For a manicure that feels timeless and expensive, but also carries a subtle nod to the coast, pearl nails are the way to go this summer - with their precious sheen and versatility.

Of course, while bright sorbet nails and ice cream-inspired shades are still very much in, this iridescent shade is once again creeping back up the list of 2026 nail trends. Unlike chunky glitters and more modern cat-eye nails, a pearl manicure feels very classic. In fact, similar to a chrome look, its shimmery finish feels almost like an extension of your jewellery, adding a soft hint of glamour to your nails, as a pair of freshwater pearl earrings would to your outfit. And while they're very chic year-round, the summer season is where they really shine.

So if you're looking for an elevated, marine-inspired manicure to accompany you on your next beachy break, here are eight ways to wear pearl on your nails.

Why pearls nails are making a comeback for summer 2026

Like shell nails, a glistening pearl look is such a lovely choice for the summer season. Of course, pearls come from the ocean, so that alone makes a manicure inspired by the precious gem feel very apt, especially if you're heading down to the coast or jetting off on a very sunny and beachy getaway. Moreso if you like to coordinate your fingernails and toenails, because pearl is also a popular and very timeless pedicure colour.

And regardless of whether you prefer having short square nails or favour a French tip, there's a pearlescent mani out there for you.

Our pearl manicure picks

The beauty of a pearly manicure, aside from its luxe look, is how easy it is to create at home. So many brands offer buildable, iridescent, metallic-y polishes that instantly deliver a sheen to your nails or can be layered over other colours, to achieve more of a glazed finish.

1. Short & subtle pearl nails

For a neat but elevated look, a pearly polish applied to short nails is definitely the way to go. The trimmed length ensures that this metallic hue feels subtle and wearable, plus the combination is just so elegant.

2. Pearly French tips

For our minimalist nail lovers out there, a pearly French tip is also a lovely option, as the design still feels simple and subtle but with a hint of glamour. Alternatively, you could also apply a sheer, pearly top coat over the classic nude base and white tip combination.

3. Pink pearl nails

Pink pearl nails combine two trends in one; the rise of sheer, milky pink shades and subtle shimmer finishes. This look is again, neat but elevated.

4. Square pearl nails

Short square nails are so popular right now, so it only makes sense to combine the style with this equally in demand polish.

5. Pearl decals

For a more literal take on this trend, you can also add little 3D pearl decals to your nails. They'll work with everything, from a bright blue base to a soft, sheer pink - it all just depends on what kind of look you're going for.

6. Mother of pearl nails

For a more statement and eye-catching take, this swirled pearl manicure reminds us of mother of pearl and will add an instant pop of luxury to your nails.

7. Pearl polka dots

Polka dots nails are still proving very popular, so why not swap the flat design for glistening, 3D micro pearls? We just love how chic and fun this manicure is, especially paired with elegant almond nails.

8. Pearl pedicure

As mentioned, a pearl polish doesn't just complement your fingernails but your toes too. Applying just one coat will instantly deliver a quick and very pretty pedicure - ideal if you need to get your feet sandal-ready, STAT.

During her long career as a professional tennis player at the top of her game, Venus Williams has learned a lot about the importance of strength training, while also coping with a fair few injuries. However, with the 46-year-old returning to Wimbledon 26 years after she first won the women’s title there, she’s been working hard to create an effective off-court stretch routine.

Venus is due to compete in the women’s doubles with her younger sister, Serena, who has also come out of retirement to play in the world-famous tournament. The five-time Wimbledon champion is still in fantastic shape, but doesn't undervalue the importance of good mobility exercises before a workout.

"I'm sharing some of my favourite stretches that help me recover after a match, improve my flexibility, and stay injury-free. As a tennis player, recovery is just as important as training, and these stretches have been key to keeping me on top of my game," she says.

Venus Williams' mobility routine

Leg and hip stretches

• Leg raises: Lying flat on her back, Venus raises each leg from the mat to straight above her five times to stretch out her hamstrings.
• Hamstring stretch: Venus then straightens one leg above her and brings it close to her body to give a good hamstring stretch. She then bends and straightens it five times, first straight above her, then at a 45-degree angle out to each side, before switching to the other leg.
• Hip stretch: Keeping her leg bent, Venus then works on her hip mobility by holding a bent leg and moving it out to each side for a 5-second hold, which helps her hips loosen up.
• Kneeling lunge: The next move Venus does is a kneeling lunge, which is a great stretch for the hip flexors and quads. She then sits back on her heel to give the hamstring and calves a good stretch, too.
• Pigeon pose into downward dog: One way to really open up your hips is to do pigeon pose, which involves having one leg bent in front of you, while the other is straight out behind. Venus keeps this dynamic by moving into a downward dog position a few times before swapping legs. Downward dog will open up your upper back and also stretch your calves and hamstrings.
• Side lunge: This exercise will stretch your hamstrings, glutes and hip flexors. Put one leg straight out to the side while kneeling on the other leg. Move your body lower to the mat to increase the intensity.

Upper-body stretches

• Lunge with rotation: Staying in the kneeling lunge position, Venus then works on her upper body by straightening each arm above her head and alternating them for a back and shoulder stretch.
• Cobra into press-ups: To stretch out her abs and upper back, Venus lies on her front on the mat. She straightens her arms to stretch her shoulders and upper back, before doing a couple of press-ups to get her arms moving.
• Cat-cow (/camels): Venus says she was experiencing a backache, but when she started focusing on her posture and doing mobility exercises, it stopped. She says she does cat-cow pose, or ‘cat-camel’ as she calls it, before adding in the thread to stretch the shoulders.
• Open book and round the clock: Lying on her side, Venus then works on her shoulder mobility by opening out her arms straight at a 90-degree angle in ‘open book’ pose. She then moves one arm around her head in a 'round the clock’ pose to work on her shoulder rotation. Doing these stretches on your side will also loosen your lower back muscles.
• Bent knee stretch: To increase the lower back stretch, Venus then brings a bent knee over the straight leg and stretches her arms out wide, which also works her pectoral and upper back muscles.

In the video, Venus reveals that Serena is “so much looser than me” – something fans have seen when she’s done the splits on tennis courts in the past. But Venus says that she actually ended up hurting herself when she tried to be as flexible. This is why she is focusing on strengthening through dynamic stretching, which increases the blood flow to your muscles, preparing them for exercise, or helping them recover afterwards.

While Venus is obviously a professional athlete, she says she recommends this routine to everyone. “Stretching makes you feel good,” she says - and we couldn’t agree more!

The world of magazines is a bit topsy-turvy. We work on summer tanning stories in February, shivering under our electric blankets, and we compile our Christmas Gift Guide in the height of summer.

In fact, this year’s summer beauty photoshoot, where we created all of our content for the next few months of the magazine, was during a particularly cold April. The crew rolled up at 6 am in jumpers and coats, and the models were strutting around in bikinis, dipping their toes into icy outdoor pools. We wanted to create the illusion of golden, gleaming skin - skin that had been (safely) sunning itself on The Med for weeks.

Luckily, our makeup artist came prepared with the perfect product, and it might be the best instant tan alternative we've come across. It’s a one-and-done that immediately transformed limbs from dull to dewy - from April to August, if you will.

This shimmering body oil will transform your skin in seconds

This shimmering body oil is ideal for those occasions when you haven’t done the legwork. For those days when it’s suddenly 30 degrees, and you haven’t tanned or even looked at your best body moisturiser in a while.

There’s nothing worse than picking an outfit you really want to wear and not feeling confident showing your arms or legs, but the second Huile Prodigeuse hits your skin, even the dullest canvas looks immediately radiant, dewy and glowing.

Nuxe’s Huile Prodigieuse Shimmering Body Oil is also my own personal summer secret weapon. For a beauty editor, I’m quite a tanning novice. I never really learned how to fake tan - I can never wrap my head around the development timings, and I always get the logistics mixed up when it comes to the shaving and exfoliation window.

The summer always seems to take me by surprise, too - suddenly I have to be shorts-ready at a moment’s notice. Technically, that’s not my fault - the British weather gods mean I need to be equally prepared for a broderie mini dress or a cagoule on any given day.

The oil, firstly, smells delicious - like golden, tropical sunshine. It almost doubles up as a solar perfume. It’s a dry oil, so it’s lightweight and never sticky or greasy. It also sinks in quickly, leaving your skin with the most incredible shimmer. My pro tip would be to let it dry down fully before you get dressed - I’ve ruined a couple of cream hemlines by applying then dressing in a hurry.

Don’t panic if it looks a bit too sparkly on first application - make sure to properly blend it in, and you can lighten the coverage with another body cream or oil if you want a lighter touch of shimmer. If you want to look amazing in pictures, though, like our models do - trust the sparkle - in photographs, it’ll create the most beautiful radiance.

For many people, a house wouldn't feel like a home without a pet or two to share it with. Personally, the soft snore of my loving Labrador while I work and his enthusiastic wagging tail when I get home make my home a happier place.

That said, his fur has an almost unbelievable knack of getting absolutely everywhere – it gets lodged in the sofa cushions and magically forms a fluffy sea beneath the dining table. And don't even get me started on the snail trail of drool that follows him around. Daily vacuuming is non-negotiable around here, and everything from the walls to the furniture has taken a hit over the years.

If, like me, you are keen to incorporate some of the latest interior decor trends while still creating spaces built to endure claws, fur, drool and odours, you're in the right place. I asked the experts how to choose pet-proof fixtures and finishes that will make life for both you and your lovable furballs run so much smoother.

How to create a pet-friendly home in style: 8 interior design tips

Anything that cuts down how often you have to clean your house is always a good idea. Creating a pet-friendly home is all about designing spaces that make life easier for everyone and incorporating finishes that are easy-to-clean, durable and low-maintenance.

To make things simple, with the help of leading experts, we've broken the process down, looking at each and every element that goes into producing the perfect pet-friendly home.

1. Choose stress-free flooring

Flooring is one of the hardest-working elements of your home and when you share your space with pets, it has to perform better than ever if you want it to stay looking great.

One of the best options is wooden flooring, although, as Adam Robertson, MD of Urbane Living, explains, you still need to choose with care. "High-quality engineered wood offers excellent stability and resilience, making it particularly well-suited to homes with pets.

I would recommend matt, brushed or lightly textured surfaces," continues Adam. "These disguise minor scratches, dust and paw prints far more effectively than highly polished floors, and also provide better grip for dogs. Mid-toned oak flooring is often the sweet spot for pet owners. Very dark floors can highlight fur, dust and scratches, while light floors can show muddy paw prints more readily."

Other great flooring choices include luxury vinyl tiles and, as María D Arráez, director of Tile of Spain UK, explains, porcelain tiles. "Porcelain and ceramic tiles are a practical option because they are durable, easy to clean, and resistant to scratches, muddy paw prints and spills.

They're also a great choice for busy areas such as kitchens, utility rooms and hallways where pets spend a lot of time. For added comfort, many homeowners pair tiles with underfloor heating, creating a surface that works well for both people and pets."

2. Select a durable, scrubbable paint finish

My walls take a real battering thanks to my dog – muddy splatters after a good post-walk shake are a regular feature. It goes without saying that you should choose a scrubbable paint (a Class 1 scrub rating can withstand thousands of scrubs without deteriorating), but what else should you be on the lookout for?

"Choose a durable paint to create a protective barrier against any wear and tear that will naturally occur," says Jon Mee, technical interiors expert at eco-friendly paint company Earthborn. "This also makes for easy cleaning as you simply have to wipe down the wall with a wet cloth.

"We’re also seeing more and more customers seeking to minimise harmful chemicals and smells in their home, especially when they have little ones and furry companions to think about," continues Jon. "Exposure to these substances can lead to various health issues, including respiratory problems and allergies. To avoid this, you must use low-VOC formulations.

"There is no need to hold back when it comes to paint colour trends and choices to be functional," points out Jon. "To create visual interest, we’d recommend opting for two or more colours together on your walls to showcase your personality. Consider painting the skirting or lower half of the wall one colour and the upper half another. This technique not only adds a contrasting and stylish feel to spaces, but it also helps to hide scuffs and marks that commonly occur at lower levels."

3. Customise your kitchen carefully

The kitchen is the space in which everyone tends to congregate – pets included.

According to bespoke kitchen designer Tom Howley, modern kitchen trends are now taking into account our four-legged companions. "When designing a kitchen or utility room, we frequently integrate practical pet features like built-in feeding stations, integrated bed nooks, and low-level storage for treats or toys,” says Tom.

"We also often include other clever customisations, such as hidden charging drawers for pet tech like GPS collars," continues Tom. "Elevated pet-dining areas clad in the same stone or timber as the kitchen worktops bring a sense of cohesion, whilst personalised touches like cabinetry engraved with a pet’s name add charm."

4. Create a layout that flows easily

Designing a pet-friendly home isn't just about the finishes, materials and furniture you choose – the overall layout of your spaces matters too. This becomes even more important when dealing with small living room layouts where every inch counts.

Matt Payne, regional sales manager at Neville Johnson, explains that the most successful layouts for pets depends on the creature in question.

"The best layouts are those that allow them to feel involved without being under everyone's feet. Dogs, in particular, tend to prefer spaces where they can observe household activities, so layouts that provide clear sightlines between living, dining and kitchen areas can help them feel more connected. Many will naturally choose a 'supervisory position' where they can keep an eye on family members, visitors and key routes through the home."

"Cats often favour the opposite, enjoying the ability to retreat and observe from a distance," Matt points out. "Elevated perches, shelving and sunny window spots can be far more appealing than even the most expensive pet bed. It's also worth considering how your pet naturally moves through the home. Many animals establish their own daily routes between feeding areas, sleeping spots, favourite humans and preferred window views."

5. Give everyone their own space

As well as creating clear pathways so that no one is getting under anyone else's feet, it is a great idea to create spaces dedicated solely to your pets.

The good news is that there are plenty of low-effort interior design ideas to use that won't jar with your interior scheme, as Kate Palmer, creative director at The Painted Furniture Company, explains. "For dog owners who crate train, purpose-built furniture designed to house a crate can make this much easier to live with aesthetically.

Rather than a metal cage in the middle of the room, the crate sits within a proper piece of cabinetry, with storage for accessories built in, and when the crate is no longer needed, the furniture adapts accordingly."

"Both cats and dogs benefit from having dedicated quiet spaces where they know they won't be disturbed," picks up Susan Nilson, accredited cat and dog training and behaviour expert at The Cat and Dog House.

"For dogs, especially anxious or fearful dogs, this would ideally be a cosy corner in a low-traffic area of the home, with a familiar bed or blanket with their scent on, and a favourite toy. For cats, the ideal set-up includes both hiding spots at lower levels (a known stress-reducer) and elevated perches where they can observe their territory from a position of safety. A cat who can see the room from above feels in control of their environment, which directly reduces stress."

6. Focus on cosy yet durable soft furnishings

Furniture, particularly upholstered pieces, can really suffer at the hands (or paws) of pets. Stains, scratches, chew marks and stubborn fur are all to be expected. Debbie Leigh, design manager at ILIV, explains how to choose materials that can handle life with pets with ease.

"When designing a pet-friendly home, the fabric choices you make for soft furnishings will have the biggest impact on how well your space holds up over time," she begins. "Avoid loosely woven or delicate fabrics like linen or velvet, which can snag, pill and trap pet hair. Instead, opt for tightly woven, performance fabrics. Patterns, floral home decor and textured weaves are also your friend, as they disguise the inevitable marks and hair that come with sharing your home with animals."

Dr Sarah Endersby BVetMed (Hons) MRCVS and global technical manager behaviour at Ceva Animal Health, explains that fabrics can also affect your pet's overall well-being. "Soft materials like short-pile velvet, fleece, or faux fur can be comforting and bring a sense of safety and nesting in resting areas.

Meanwhile, tightly woven performance fabrics and smooth leathers prevent claw snags, which reduces stress for both you and your pet. Avoid loose knits or weaves, as pets can easily sink their claws into them, frightening them if they get caught. Slippery fabrics, where they can struggle to gain grip or traction with their paws, or noisy fabrics may also disturb them."

7. Incorporate pet-focused storage to cut down on clutter

The best storage is always tailored to your needs. In order to cut down on pet-related clutter, this is one area to really focus on.

"Dedicated feeding areas, practical storage and easy-clean spaces are essential when designing a home around pets," says Matt Payne. "Consider designated storage for food and treats to keep them fresh and smells at bay, as well as hallway or utility storage, or laundry room organisation ideas for leads, towels, and muddy paws after a walk.

Thoughtfully positioned water stations away from busy walkways can help minimise spills, while hidden litter tray or dog crate solutions can keep everyday necessities discreetly tucked away. Consider integrated storage for robotic vacuums, too – they can make managing pet hair and keeping your home looking its best much easier."

"Freestanding painted furniture is a brilliant choice," adds Kate Palmer. "It's hardwearing, easy to wipe clean and a painted dresser in a hallway or kitchen gives you practical storage for leads, treats and grooming kit, while looking far more considered than a row of hooks and a plastic box."

8. Keep your pet's safety in mind

If you want to be able to relax in your home, ensuring it is designed in a way that keeps all members of the family safe and sound, including pets, is really important.

There are several steps you can take here, including addressing your kitchen storage, as Dr Sarah Endersby explains. "A calm environment for pets should be a predictable and safe one."

"Always store medications and toxic foods, such as chocolate and grapes, well out of their reach. It’s also important to secure heavy furniture to prevent accidents, protect electrical cords to avoid chewing hazards, and replace toxic houseplants with pet-safe alternatives. Avoid slippery floors where possible and ensure pathways (or jump zones for cats) are clear and uncluttered to prevent accidents.

"Heat sources can be dangerous too, such as fireplaces and log burners, so access to these objects should be restricted," continues Sarah. "Ensuring your pet has a clear ‘escape’ route to their safe place (which is always accessible) should they be startled or scared by something helps them to feel safer too."

FAQs

Should you avoid carpet if you live with pets?

Despite regularly cleaning carpets around the house, ours still bear the war wounds inflicted by our late cat's nonchalant clawing. That said, according to Jodie Hatton, design manager at Brintons, pet owners don't have to rule out carpet altogether.

"It's a common misconception that carpets should be avoided in homes with pets. In reality, a well-chosen wool carpet can be an excellent option for busy households, offering natural durability, comfort and practicality. For spaces such as reception rooms or living rooms where softness underfoot is important, wool is a resilient and long-lasting choice that stands up well to everyday family life.

"Wool fibres also have natural stain-resistant properties thanks to their protective outer layer, giving homeowners valuable time to clean up spills or muddy paw prints before they penetrate the fibres," continues Jodie.

"In addition, wool is naturally anti-static and hypoallergenic, helping to reduce dust mites and airborne allergens, making it a healthier environment for both people and pets, particularly those with sensitivities. We recommend selecting a cut-pile or twist wool carpet rather than a loop-pile construction, as looped fibres are more susceptible to snagging from claws."

Do some colour schemes work better for pets than others?

You might not think you need to consider your pets when considering the latest paint trends, but you do, according to Susan Nilson.

"Something people don’t always think about when it comes to pets is colour schemes, but it’s worth considering. Cats and dogs both have more limited colour vision than humans, so reds and oranges don’t stand out to them the way they do to us. Instead, they’re seen as much less vivid, closer to muted browns or greys," explains Susan.

"What cats and dogs see best is the blue, violet, and green range of the colour spectrum, so interior decor in those tones likely gives them a more visible contrast than a room dominated by warm reds and oranges.

"Some bright white fabrics and paints also contain fluorescent whitening agents that absorb ultraviolet light and re-emit visible light," adds Susan. "Since cats and dogs can see a little into the ultraviolet range, those materials may appear slightly brighter to them than to us. That’s worth keeping in mind when choosing fabrics for your pet’s resting area."

If you choose to share your home with animals, it's a given that you are going to end up with a busier cleaning schedule than someone who is pet-free. That said, there are plenty of cleaning tips for pet owners that can make life easier.

It's never a dull month for our beauty team, we spend our weeks trialling a plethora of different products at any given time – just think of us as your personal testers.

As for June's agenda, we spent our time misting, slathering and lathering our way through 13 products, until we physically couldn't get anything else out of them. To give you some more insight, we're talking one of the best face masks from a popular K-beauty brand that boosts hydration, firmness and radiance, plus the best shampoo for fine hair that gives your strands some oomph.

With all of that in mind, we're here to give you a rundown of each product, explaining why they left us with such a positive impression. And if our words aren't convincing enough, just take our aesthetically pleasing photos (if we do say so ourselves) as evidence for how much we've loved these formulas...

The 13 products we've loved every last drop of this month

Wondering what is PDRN? Our Beauty Writer has a moisturiser recommendation that serves as a perfect introduction to the buzzword ingredient. Alternatively, if your feet are in need of some TLC, our Beauty Editor reveals the exfoliating glycolic acid toner she's been using to get her feet sandal-ready.

After dedicating the last 18 months to religiously trying a plethora of beauty newness, I'd say I'm pretty well placed to say which products deserve to be on your radar.

Every month I spritz, slather and blend my way through scores of new beauty launches and this month is no different. Throughout June, I've had my hands on all-new contenders for the lists of best volumising mascara, the best fake tans for the face and long-lasting perfumes.

While I tried dozens of different formulas that landed on my desk over the last few weeks, I whittled them down to a list of my 9 favourite buys that cut through the noise and left a standout impression on me. So, buckle up because June was a good'un...

The 9 best newcomers to the beauty market this month

If you don't keep in the loop, the beauty world can sometimes leave you feeling like you're chasing your tail. New products seem to launch left, right and centre but that's what I'm here for. It's literally my 9-5 job to not only keep on top of all the new products that make their debut on the market, but to also try them first before you spend your hard-earned money on them.

In other news...

👄 Glow Recipe's hydrating and shine-boosting lip treatment, Glass Balm, celebrated its first birthday

💁‍♀️ Permanent hair colour brand, Naturtint, launched at Boots

🇬🇧 Natural skincare company, Jurlique, relaunches in UK with three new masks – the Soothing Water-Cream Mask, Purifying Clay Mask and Peeling Jelly Mask

‼️ We also have to give honourable mentions to a handful of other new launches we got our hands on this month, such as the Iconic London Soft Touch Blush, Uni water based fragrances, Byredo Body Mists and the Trinny London Lip Reset Kit.

While the appearance of strong arms is in vogue at the moment, strength training is about more than appearances - from picking up shopping bags to taking things down from above your head, they aid with functional movement and may make daily life feel easier well into your 80s and 90s.

Melissa Leach, a yoga instructor and strength and conditioning coach at Yoga-Go, says, “Building arm strength goes far beyond aesthetic reasons. It’s often an indicator of overall health and functional capacity, and developing it through regular training can help improve muscle mass, support joint stability, enhance metabolic health, and make everyday tasks easier and safer to perform.”

The same goes for all upper-body strength, she says - and the good news is that you can do short, effective workouts to improve it. Think dumbbells, light weights, and resistance bands.

Try this arm workout

1. Arm circles

This short warm-up exercise gets the shoulder joints ready for the more intense movement to come.

Here's how to do arm circles:

• Stand with your feet hip-width apart and extend your arms straight out to the sides, at shoulder height.
• Make small circles forward for 20 to 30 seconds, then reverse the direction.

2. Shoulder press

This is a compound movement, targeting most of the upper muscles on the front of the body, but particularly the muscles on the front, sides, and back of the shoulder.

"Keep your ribs pulled in and your core engaged so the work stays in your shoulders rather than the lower back," says Melissa.

Here's how to do it:

• Curl the weights up to your shoulders, then press them overhead until your arms fully extend, without locking your elbows.
• Lower the weights back to your shoulder and then down to the starting position.
• Repeat 10 to 15 times.

3. Bicep curls

The bicep curl is a favourite upper-body exercise for a reason. It focuses on the muscle at the front of your arm, which is used during most lifting movements.

Here's how to do it:

• Stand hip-width apart with a dumbbell in each hand.
• Hold the dumbbells with a straight arm at either side of your hips.
• Keeping your elbow tucked into your waist, curl the dumbbell towards your shoulder
• Slowly bring it back down.
• Repeat 12 to 15 times on both sides, or complete the movement with both arms at the same time.

4. Single-arm lat pull down

A lat pull-down is traditionally done in the gym with a cable machine and single handle, but you can also do it at home as part of a resistance band workout. Anchor your resistance band between a door in your house and the frame.

“The resistance should come from muscle engagement, not momentum, so focus on your form and squeezing the muscles along the sides of your back with every repetition," says Melissa.

Here's how to do it:

• Stand tall with your arms extended overhead, with palms facing forward.
• Pull one elbow down towards your ribs, squeezing your shoulder blades together.
• Slowly extend your arms overhead and repeat with the opposite arm.
• Repeat 12 to 15 times.

5. Steering wheels

The steering wheel exercise is one that mainly targets the shoulders - this is where you'll really feel it. However, it also improves muscular endurance in the arms, forcing them to stay static. It would be right at home in a home Pilates workout, too, as it focuses on core control and stability.

Here's how to do it:

• Hold a light dumbbell with both hands or clasp your hands together and extend your arms in front of your body.
• Slowly rotate your hands from side to side as though turning a steering wheel.
• Complete 15 to 20 rotations per direction.

Paddling pools are an absolute saviour when the heatwaves hit in the UK; however, the one drawback they do have is the damage they tend to inflict on your precious lawn.

As one of the best ways to keep cool in the garden during summer, many of us quickly buy or drag out paddling pools for some much-needed relief on hot summer days. And whilst they are great for lowering temperatures for us and our pets, they do so at a cost to our beloved lawns, unless you're lucky enough to keep yours on a patio.

When the sun goes in and that paddling pool is once again banished to the shed, the dreaded damage caused by the crushing weight and inevitable waterlogging is soon revealed. So, what can you do to fix it?

How to repair grass after a paddling pool causes damage

When you've been avoiding making lawn care mistakes all year, having your paddling pool come and ruin all your hard work can be incredibly frustrating. Which is why we asked garden experts how you can reverse the damage.

"Gently rake the flattened grass that was underneath the paddling pool so that it is back in a standing position," instructs Richard Barker, horticulture expert and commercial director at LBS Horticulture.

"The grass underneath the pool may have turned yellow due to a lack of water and nutrients in the hot weather. You can aid recovery by watering the grass and applying fertiliser to replace any nutrients it may have lost. Even if the grass appears to be dead, continue to water it daily, and it should recover within a few days," he continues

Although it's usually recommended to plant your grass seed in spring, if you find that your pool has left a significant bare patch, reseeding is the next recommended step.

"If the grass has become patchy, it may need to be reseeded," suggests Richard. "Sprinkle grass seed over bare or thin patches, and rake it in lightly. Keep the seed moist until new shoots appear."

All you need to do then is make sure you're watering your lawn often enough through the summer for the seed to grow and thrive.

How long can you leave a paddling pool on grass?

If you want to avoid making a summer garden mistake by keeping your pool out, the amount of time it sits on the grass can make all the difference.

"Ideally, you should not leave a paddling pool on the same patch of grass for more than a few days. If you do need to leave the pool inflated for longer, try to move it around to a different spot each day to prevent the grass from becoming too damaged," explains Richard.

Will grass grow back after being covered?

Having a well-kept lawn is a great way to make your garden look expensive, so it's no surprise we panic about it growing back once it's damaged. Luckily, grass is usually pretty good at reviving itself with a little help.

"Grass will generally grow back after being covered, but the recovery will depend on how long it was covered. If it was only covered for a short period of time, it will bounce back fairly quickly, usually within a week or two with watering and sunlight exposure," starts Richard.

"If the grass is covered for longer than two weeks, the prolonged darkness combined with the heat that can be generated underneath the covering can kill off the grass. The grass will usually not recover, but dead patches may be reclaimed by healthy, surrounding grass spreading," he adds.

In this case, no matter what you do to make your grass greener, it won't grow back, and you'll need to replace the turf.

If you do need to reseed your lawn, make sure you know how often to water lawn seed, especially in the summer when the temperatures are at their highest.

From versatile body mists to designer names, there are more perfumes on Amazon than you might think, and as a fragrance lover myself, it's actually one of my first ports of call to snag a bargain.

Among friends, I have built up a bit of a reputation for liking and wearing quite luxe scents, but little do they know that quite a few of them have made it into my stash at a very reasonable price. All thanks to some savvy and tactical shopping, like biding my time until the Prime Day deals, for instance. Indeed, Amazon isn't just for securing your everyday essentials on offer. You can also find a plethora of chic, long-lasting perfumes, all discounted, and many of which, I'd wager, you didn't even know were stocked at the retailer: Issey Miyake, Estée Lauder, and the very trendy body care line Salt & Stone, to name just a few.

So, if you're looking for a new signature, but don't want to drop upwards of £100 on one, these are the budget-friendly blends I would recommend - all of which smell deceptively expensive and are currently on sale.

9 chic, discounted perfumes on Amazon I would recommend to a friend

When it comes to the most comfortable trainers, I do like to consider myself a bit of an aficionado. I have never really gotten into wearing heels, so my shoe wardrobe is largely a combination of sleek white trainers and knee-high boots. I used to wear a lot of Skechers in my youth, but hadn't for some years, so I was well aware of how well-crafted the shoes were, although even I was taken aback by how instantly cushioned and supported my feet felt.

Literally sliding my feet into the Skechers Slip-Ins, thanks to the contour foam, my foot was instantly enveloped, and I could tell how well built the footbed was. It delivered instant arch support, and the shoe itself was extremely light, even with a slightly platform-esque sole that gave these trainers a more youthful, contemporary feel. A hint of rose gold stitching and eyelets adds depth to the style, while the quilted fabric top gives an airy feel. With air-cooled memory foam, these trainers are also particularly breathable - perfect for a heatwave.

I suppose the thing I was least prepared for is how much I would value the slip in style. Thanks to a set of elastic laces, I could pre-tie my trainers and literally slip them on and off like a Birkenstock clog, but with all the benefits of Skechers cushioning and support. I've been wearing these Skechers Slip-Ins since October 2025, and they are the shoe I grab for comfortable casual weekends, running to do school pick-up or the park and everything in between, and the easy-on style has definitely contributed to that.

Skechers is known for its arch-supporting, contoured shoes, which aren't crafted just for fashion alone, and although the range is vast, this commitment to comfort underpins every pair. The air-cooled memory foam makes them a literal breeze to wear, particularly in hot weather.

As someone who loves a white trainer - they just go with everything, I found that the Skechers Slip-Ins slotted effortlessly into my wardrobe, pairing with my summer capsule wardrobe with ease. The additional rose gold adds a slightly fancier feel to the very sporty-looking trainer, too.

Picking these trainers in October, they've seen their fair share of wear with leggings and an oversized jumper on the weekend, too, and the quilt detailing only adds to their sporty feel. The easy elasticated laces mean they stretch with my feet too, so if I've been out walking or on my feet all day, they're just as comfy as they were when I started.

As a toddler parent, I'm often the last person to get ready, and I always have my hands full, so the slip-on aspect of these trainers has been more transformative than I care to admit. Did I know that I would one day find that a trainer hack as simple as having a slip-on style sporty shoe would save my composure on more than one occasion? No, but I am so pleased these casual trainers walked into my fashion rotation.

And it's not just time-tight mums that will benefit. From a mobility point of view, the Skechers Slip-Ins are so easy to get on and off that if you've been struggling with trainers or shoes that feel both supportive and ergonomic, this is the answer.

Now, if you're a white trainer wearer, you'll know they can get pretty grubby, and I recently chucked these in the washing machine for the first time in six months, and they did come out nice and clean. A trainer you can machine wash, yes, please.

It's important to understand how to clean white shoes, as wearing the light coloured footwear is quite the commitment, but luckily, this pair of Skechers is machine washable, making caring for them easy - and they do wash really well.

Packed with technology, the air-cooled memory foam is a dream when it comes to what to wear in the heat if you don't want sandals, while the heel pillow helps to hold your foot in place.

Light on the feet but well-cushioned, and yes, I'm going to say it again, with a slip-on set of elasticated laces - that no one will be able to tell, this is the ultimate shoe for those who just need to slide into their shoes before leaving the house, no fuss, just great comfort with every step.

The concept of ‘exercise snacking’ has never been more popular. Not only is it convenient and accessible, but there is solid scientific evidence that short bursts of physical activity can yield real benefits for our health. But can a swimming workout be an effective ‘exercise snack’?

A study published in the European Heart Journal found that just 15 to 20 minutes of vigorous physical activity a week (almost as low as two minutes a day) was enough to significantly lower the risk of heart disease, cancer and early death. The study defined vigorous activity as any exercise that leaves you out of breath and raises your heart rate, including swimming.

But does ‘exercise snacking’ really work in the pool? Unlike a short run, walk, or online workout at home, going for a swim requires a bit of effort beyond the swim itself, so we often want to spend longer in the pool to make the most of it. However, head of swim for David Lloyd Clubs, Nuala Muir-Cochrane, believes short swims are worth it: “If you only have 10 minutes, consistency matters more than volume. Even two or three short swims per week can improve swim fitness noticeably,” she says.

With that in mind, I added some 10-minute swims to my routine of strength training and yoga workouts for two weeks to see if it made any difference to my health and fitness. Here’s what I discovered, plus what experts told me about optimising a short swim to either energise, recover or relax.

Benefits of 10-minute swimming workouts

1. Aids muscle recovery

To make the most of my short pool sessions, I often paired them with a gym visit, realising that I’ll need a post-workout shower anyway, so I may as well take a dip first. According to Francesca Bagshaw, performance physiologist at Nuffield Health’s Manchester Institute of Health and Performance, a short swim is perfect for recovering after the gym, a run or exercise class because it combines low-impact movement with increased circulation.

“After a hard session, muscles can feel stiff and fatigued due to microscopic muscle damage, inflammation and metabolite build-up,” she explains. “Gentle swimming helps stimulate blood flow without placing additional mechanical stress on joints and muscles,” Francesca recommends keeping the intensity low to moderate if recovery is your goal, to promote mobility, relaxation and circulation, without additional fatigue.

Samantha Russo, master swim coach for Virgin Active, adds, “In the pool, the water holds most of your bodyweight, so your joints get a break, but your muscles are still working gently through a big range of motion. Because water gives soft resistance in every direction, an easy swim is like active stretching with a built-in massage for the muscles, so you loosen up rather than lock up.”

2. Supports muscle building

Water is around 800 times denser than air, making swimming (or any movement in water) an effective resistance workout. Your muscles need to work harder to propel the body through the water, and multiple muscle groups will be involved, including those in your arms, legs, back and core.

My fortnight of short swims probably didn’t help me gain muscle – the resistance of the water never changes, so practising progressive overload (gradually increasing the weight, as I can in the gym) isn’t possible. I would have to either increase my speed, distance or duration to do this. But I felt that my short swims did support gains from strength training in the gym. Maintaining muscle has been useful for staying strong, not just for my gym workouts, but also for my yoga classes and occasional run.

3. Boosts energy levels

While it isn’t my preferred timeslot, I would sometimes schedule a short, pacier swim in the morning to boost my mental and physical energy before work. If you prefer morning workouts, you might find that adding a short, fast swim after the gym or an exercise class will energise you for the day ahead.

Samantha is a fan of morning swims: “In the morning, your circulation and nervous system are still in ‘low power mode’, and a short swim acts like a full-body wake-up call,” she says. “The cold water stimulates your skin and nerves, your breathing and heart rate increase, and more oxygen-rich blood is pushed to your brain and muscles. That mix of oxygen, movement and endorphins clears brain fog and lifts your mood far better than a cup of coffee.”

Francesca adds, “For best results, morning swims should be kept relatively short and refreshing rather than exhaustive, particularly before work or further training later in the day.”

4. Lowers stress levels

Much has been discovered about the effects of immersion in water, and how it can induce an ultra-calming ‘blue mind’ state. This is partly why I favour an evening swim, not just to avoid the busiest times at the pool, but to lower my cortisol levels and put a full stop to the day. This can have a calming effect on the nervous system, explains Francesca.

“Steady, rhythmic swimming encourages controlled breathing patterns and can help shift the body toward a more parasympathetic, ‘rest and digest’, state. This reduces physiological arousal and can lower stress levels after a busy day,” she says.

“Warm or temperate water can reduce muscle tension and promote peripheral vasodilation [widening of the blood vessels], helping the body feel physically calmer. The repetitive nature of swimming has a meditative effect for many people, supporting mental decompression and reduced cognitive stress.”

Samantha adds that some may find evening swims contribute to a better night’s sleep: “Your core body temperature rises slightly in the water, then drops as you shower and dry off, and that drop is a natural signal to your brain that it’s time for bed.”

5. Burns calories

The number of calories you burn during a swim will depend on various factors, including the duration, distance, intensity and your bodyweight. For example, according to Harvard Medical School data, someone who weighs 155lb could expect to burn approximately 200 calories over a 30-minute low-intensity swim, rising to 360 calories for a high-intensity 30-minute swim.

Just 10 minutes of swimming will amount to a third of that calorie burn, but the ‘afterburn’ – or excess post-exercise oxygen consumption (EPOC) – may help burn a few more. The ‘afterburn’ concept suggests that we consume more oxygen to help our bodies restore and repair following intense exercise, essentially burning calories at a greater rate. However, research suggests this amounts to just a handful of extra calories burnt.

However, I can be confident that spending an extra 10 minutes swimming in the evening burns more calories than my alternative (usually sitting on the sofa watching TV). It's the same for a 10-minute walking workout.

10-minute swimming workouts to try

Multi-stroke sprint swimming workout

Nuala recommends this swim workout for beginner-intermediate level swimmers. “It improves cardiovascular fitness without the need for a long session, while using different muscle groups through the stroke changes. The easy swim at the end helps recovery and reduces stiffness,” she says.

How to do it:

• For the first five minutes, alternate between front crawl, breaststroke and backstroke for one length each.
• On every fourth length, sprint at your near maximum effort. Maintain controlled technique even when swimming faster.
• For the final five minutes, cool down with gentle continuous swimming with whichever stroke feels most relaxed. Focus on long strokes with steady breathing and low effort.

Maintaining form is crucial, says Nuala: “For front crawl, keep your head still and look slightly downward rather than forwards; in breaststroke, glide briefly after each kick rather than rushing the strokes; and for backstroke, keep your hips high and do small continuous kicks.”

Varied swimming workout

Cheryl Pottinger, swim teacher for Better, suggests this 10 minute routine which goes up and down the speed scale over 300m (in a standard 25m pool).

How to do it:

• Warm up with one length of front crawl, followed by one length of breaststroke at normal pace.
• For your main set, swim front crawl with a 10 second rest after each practice, starting with one length at your maximum speed.
• Follow it with two lengths at 80% of your maximum speed.
• Shift down a gear for the next three lengths at normal pace.
• Swim the next two lengths at 80% of your maximum speed.
• Finish this section with one length at maximum speed.
• Cool down with one length in a stroke of your choice at normal pace.

Recovery swim

As a gentle short swim to aid relaxation after a gym session, Cheryl recommends this sequence. It incorporates the lesser known side stroke, which is relaxed, energy efficient and builds core stability as it forces your midsection to engage as you balance on one side.

How to do it:

• Warm up with one length of front crawl and one length of breaststroke at a relaxed pace.
• Swim the next two lengths in side stroke, one length on the right side and one on the left. This stroke requires balancing on one side of the body, reaching forward with one arm while the other pulls back, and scissor kicking the legs. “Focus on the power in the muscles during the pull and kick, and the stretching of the muscles during the glide,” says Cheryl. Watch a demo here.
• Finish with one length of steady-paced breaststroke, and a final length of head-first sculling (lie on your back using your arms to propel you backwards).

Tips for making the most of a 10-minute swimming workout

• Make it your post-gym habit: All the effort involved in travelling to and from the pool, let alone changing in and out of clothes, may not feel worth it for just 10 minutes in the pool. So, I often tacked it onto the end of my regular gym session. If your gym has a pool, make the most of it and view it as part of your workout ‘cool down’ and recovery before showering and heading home.
• Tailor your swim to the time of day: There are still benefits to be had if you take a relaxing swim in the morning, or a higher intensity swim in the evening, but you might be working against your energy levels. As Francesca recommends, a pacier swim early in the day can boost alertness, while a lighter intensity swim in the evening can aid post-workout recovery and sleep.
• Choose quieter pool times: This goes for however long you wish to spend swimming, but having a lane all to yourself allows you to follow a plan without compromise. I find evenings are best for me but check your local pool timetable to avoid sharing space with unexpected aqua aerobic classes or school swimming lessons.
• Bring a poolside kit bag: With just 10 minutes in the pool, you don’t have time to keep nipping back to your locker to fetch forgotten kit. Have a small kit bag pre-packed with anything you might need (think spare hairclips and hairbands, anti-fog goggle spray, kickboard and pull buoy if you’re using them), and keep it at the end of your lane (make sure it isn’t a trip hazard).

If you asked me at the start of the year, my skincare regime would've consisted of 6 thorough steps – yes, I might've fallen into the trap of extensive routines. However, that all changed when I tried Korean beauty.

I'll admit, I actually wasn't all that clued up on the best Korean beauty products a few months back. But since then, I've tried a plethora of formulas which have gone on to replace some of my all-time favourite skincare buys.

So, with every skin expert I've spoken to telling me that I should take a less-is-more approach, now (much to everyone's surprise) my routine simply makes room to just two products. One of the best face moisturisers that nourishes my skin barrier and a calming face serum – that's it.

For context, my skin has always been dull and has never had any natural luminosity to it, but let me tell you, my once lacklustre complexion has been revived by this duo. My skin has quite honestly never looked healthier, appearing brighter, hydrated, radiant and full of life. In fact, I'm putting it all down to these two nourishing Korean skincare buys and cutting back on the amount of products I've been using.

As someone with sensitive, irritation-prone skin, I'm always sceptical about trying new products, but Korean skincare is well-known for being the home of some stellar, kind-to-skin formulas. Take the Purito serum for example, it's enriched with Centella Asiatica, an ancient Korean herb that is known for its restorative properties, or the Illiyoon cream, which is equipped with ceramides – both of which are especially beneficial for sensitive skin types and damaged skin barriers.

So, if you take one thing away from this, it's that less is more when it comes to skincare – oh, and one more thing, K-beauty is certainly worth investing in.

As much as we'd love to keep our favourite French beauty buys under lock and key, their discounted prices are just too good to miss - with everything, from our go-to body oils and SPFs, currently under-£20 (and still dropping).

French skincare is, after all, famed for its effective and glow-boosting formulas, much like how French perfumes are highly sought after for their chic and luxurious notes, so it's only natural that you would want to add a few gems to your product lineup. The country's beauty offerings just have a certain je ne sais quoi that is hard to resist. A French pharmacy alone is difficult to walk past, as is a good online deal, especially when popular and well-loved brands like Caudalie, La Roche-Posay and Nuxe are involved.

So if you're looking to upgrade your routine with one of the best face moisturisers or tanning drops on the market, behold these very tempting Amazon Prime Day deals...

The under-£20 French beauty buys we're grabbing while they're on sale

As a team, we have quite the stash of French pharmacy finds in our beauty bags, from Caudalie's SPF50 Glow Oil to La Roche-Posay's iconic B5 baume. So, in case you're unsure what to shop in the sale, we've waded through all the deals to bring you a selection of our go-tos.

Where to shop French beauty deals

In case you're looking to expand your shopping horizons, we've also made a list of more retailers that stock our French beauty essentials - and made note of all the ones with current discounts and offers.

• Amazon: find discounts of over 47% off in the Prime Day sales
• allbeauty: enjoy frequent sales across French skincare, fragrance and more
• Boots: shop brands like Avène, La Roche-Posay and Embryolisse
• Cult Beauty: enjoy 15% off with your first Cult Beauty haul with the code FIRST15
• Face The Future: bag 20% off Bioderma and more
• Look Fantastic: tempting 30% discounts on L'Oréal, Kérastase and more
• Sephora: boasts frequent discounts and sales across French pharmacy faves
• SpaceNK: shop both affordable and luxury French brands, like Diptyque

Anyone who knows me knows that I absolutely love Birkenstocks. They are the undisputed queens of summer footwear, in my view, but during this brutal June heatwave, they’ve transitioned from a style choice to a literal survival tool. While everyone else is nursing blisters from suffocating trainers or cheap flip flops, I have survived the soaring temperatures entirely thanks to my trusty classics, the one-strap Birkenstock Madrids. They are light, breezy, and keep my feet cool when the pavement is quite literally melting beneath my feet.

If you’re looking to expand your Birkenstock collection or thinking of investing in your very first pair – and yes, Birkenstocks are definitely worth it – then right now is actually the best time to buy.

High-street favourite Schuh has just slashed prices by up to 30% off selected Birkenstock lines in the massive Schuh summer sale. If you sign up for the free Schuh Club loyalty scheme, you’ll get free standard delivery on your order, earn points for every purchase towards money-off rewards, and get early access, exclusive promos, and prize draws. What's more, key workers and students can stack a further 10% off on top of those discounts.

From poolside to summer party-ready, these are the top Birkenstock deals to shop at Schuh before they sell out.

Shopping tip for Schuh

Don’t forget to check the Schuh Ex-Display section, where the retailer sells ex-display pairs – often with nothing more than a tiny, unnoticeable scuff on the suede or leather – for up to 70% off. It’s the ultimate hidden gem on the internet for scoring authentic Birkenstocks on a serious shoestring.

A solid skincare routine is the bedrock of gorgeous, glowing skin. That's why we're here to celebrate the very best skin essentials, innovative formulations and problem-solvers that truly deliver.

Skin is the largest organ in the body, and a great barometer of our overall well-being. So whether you're looking for the best cleanser to suit your skin type, a reliable facial sunscreen, or a super serum, you can cherry-pick from this list knowing that every single product has the woman&home stamp of approval.

With the help of a panel of industry experts, we've put hundreds of washes, creams, tools and treatments to the test, to pick 80 award-worthy winners.

The 2026 woman&home skin awards winners!

Cleansers and exfoliators

Masks

Serums

Moisturisers

Skin tools and supplements

Eyes and lips

Problem solvers

Professional treatments

SPF

Bodycare

Special recognition

Whenever we step foot in our local drugstore, there's one counter we'll always pay a visit to – none other than L'Oréal Paris.

L'Oréal is the heritage affordable brand that's been around for as long as we can remember, and has launched some of the best face moisturisers and the best mascaras of all time. So, it should come as no surprise that you can expect to find this brand in the makeup bags and bathroom cabinets of most beauty editors, too.

So, seeing as it's Prime Day (or more accurately, Prime four days), we've scoured the online sales with a fine-tooth comb to find the very best L'Oréal products our beauty team recommends that are currently marked down. Spoiler, we've uncovered huge discounts of up to 65% off products we love – and you certainly don't want to miss out on them...

L'Oréal Sale Quick Links

• Age Perfect: Enjoy huge savings of up to 61% on the skincare range designed to target signs of ageing, boost radiance and firmness
• Haircare: Find rare discounts on the Elvive Growth Boosting, Glycolic Gloss and Bond Repair ranges
• K-beauty inspired Glass Skin range: Discover radiance-boosting face masks, milky serums and SPF moisturisers with up to half price off
• Makeup: Get up to 63% off lightweight foundations, long-lasting lip stain serums and volume-boosting mascaras
• Revitalift: Save up to 60% on L'Oréal's Revitalift range, including nourishing day creams, night creams and retinol serums
• Suncare: You can make savings on the brand's lineup of suncare buys, just in time for summer

11 of the best L'Oréal deals waiting to be snapped up right now

Hikers have watched their favourite brands go mainstream in recent years. Known as 'gorpcore' (Good Old Raisins and Peanuts), the look mixes functional outdoorwear with street style. Gabby Logan has joined the likes of Jennifer Lawrence by wearing the stylish Salomon XT-6 walking shoes off the trails.

But instead of wearing them as a pair of trail-running or walking shoes, as intended, she's made good use of their flat, stable, and supportive base in the gym for exercises like squats and lunges. When choosing gym shoes, this is what you need.

I've been wearing the Salomon XT-6 walking shoes for years now. I have two pairs and wear them just as often into the office as I do on trails, but I've never thought to wear them to the gym before. That changes today.

A quick review

The Salomon XT-6 was originally designed as an ultramarathon shoe, which is perhaps why it bridges the gap so well between running shoe and workout shoe. Across this distance, a shoe with a strong rocker (the feature that propels you forward) wouldn't be a good idea, as you'd lack the stability and feeling of the ground underneath you.

This rocker is also not found in workout shoes. During resistance training exercises like squats and lunges, as Gabby demonstrates in her full-body workout, your feet are your body's foundation. A firm, flat base with a wide toe box means you can spread your toes and 'anchor' yourself into the ground. These features also stop you from wobbling around, improve your balance, and ensure you can move as you want to - and thanks to this purpose behind the design, the Salomon XT-6 has them.

The addition of the quick-lace chassis and midfoot support only adds to this and helps to stabilise the foot on the move. Together, it's the makings of a great workout shoe.

That being said, these shoes are still best for hiking and trail running. Along with these stability features, they have a rubber toe to protect against stray rocks on the downhill, thick 5.5 mm lugs on the sole, and a 10mm heel-toe drop, which limits impact on the body, particularly on the Achilles and calf muscles.

The lugs help grip onto trail paths, gravel, and other uneven terrain without an issue. I've even gone rock climbing in mine.

The durability of the mesh upper (with or without the GORE-TEX layer) only adds to their worth. They stand the test of time, and I reach for mine for most of my walking workouts or light trail running. Now they will also be in my rotation for workout shoes.

With celebrities from Jennifer Lawrence to Lily Collins and now Gabby Logan reaching for these shoes, they've become a style staple away from the trails and an alternative way to liven up a wardrobe with a rugged edge.

Along with my green pair, I have an all-black pair in the original design without the GORE-TEX layer that I wear most often for city walking and into the office.

While your mind might be justifiably on other things, like keeping yourself cool and hydrated in the summer heat, spare a quick thought for your favourite (and likely very expensive) fragrances and where you might be storing them, as the heat affects them too.

Let's take your dresser, for instance; while your best long-lasting perfumes might look incredibly chic, positioned just so, on its top, if that spot sees a lot of light and the room gets hot, your scents might be suffering for the aesthetic. Their compositions are delicate and can be adversely affected by several factors, though the heat is our top concern right now, with temperatures already soaring this season.

So, if you've just invested in a luxe and gorgeous-smelling citrus or floral fragrance, and you want to keep it that way, these are the worst places to store your perfumes, according to experts.

The worst places to store your perfumes, per the experts

It's likely something that's never really crossed your mind before, but your best rose perfumes and gourmand blends actually aren't impervious to the elements just because they're housed in ornate and stylish, often tinted bottles. In fact, the summer heat can indeed pose a risk to them.

"As an Australian, I have a lot of sympathy for anyone experiencing a heatwave," says Almira Armstrong, founder of LUMIRA. "We spend much of the year navigating intense summer temperatures, and one thing I've learned is that perfume needs protecting just as much as we do."

Now, it's important to note that your favourite £100+ perfume isn't in immediate danger. As Perfume Direct's Fragrance Expert, Jonny Webber explains: "Perfume is highly sensitive to heat, light and oxygen. The aromatic compounds that create a fragrance are delicate, and once a bottle has been opened, they gradually begin to oxidise. Heat speeds up that process."

That said, "One warm afternoon isn't going to ruin your favourite perfume, but weeks or months of exposure to high temperatures and direct sunlight can change how it smells."

Thus, it's very important, in the long run and especially during intense periods of heat - like this current UK heatwave - that we take preventive measures and keep our scents away from these three locations...

1. On your dressing table or windowsill

We know, we know, they do look so chic there, but as Webber notes, "If you've spent £80, £100 or even £200 on a premium fragrance, leaving it on a sunny dressing table during a heatwave is a bit like leaving an expensive bottle of wine in a hot conservatory. You're simply accelerating its decline."

Webber adds that "Direct sunlight is the obvious problem, but even bright rooms that become warm throughout the day can gradually alter a fragrance's chemical composition. Heat and UV light are one of the worst combinations for preserving perfume."

Ideally, fragrances should be stored at around 15-20°C, but keeping them somewhere consistently cool, dry and out of direct sunlight is the most important thing. Webber advises that a cupboard or drawer "in one of the cooler parts of your home is usually the best place."

Armstrong seconds this, adding: "The ideal place is somewhere cool, dry and dark. A bedroom drawer, wardrobe shelf or cabinet is perfect. I always recommend keeping fragrances in their original box if possible, as this provides an extra layer of protection from light exposure."

2. In the bathroom

Now, this one might surprise you, but your bathroom is a no-go for your favourite fragrances.

"Bathrooms experience constant swings in temperature and humidity," Webber explains. "Every hot shower exposes the bottle to warm, damp air before it cools again. Over time, those repeated fluctuations place unnecessary stress on the fragrance."

Armstrong also notes that "Heat, humidity and direct sunlight are perfume's greatest enemies. These conditions can cause delicate fragrance molecules to degrade faster, altering the scent and reducing its longevity."

3. In your car or handbag

We're definitely guilty of this one, but during bouts of warm weather, keeping your fragrance in your car or handbag is a no-no.

"A parked car can become far hotter than the outside temperature, especially in direct sunlight," says Webber. "A fragrance left in a glovebox or handbag inside the car for just a few hours can be exposed to temperatures well beyond what it was designed to withstand."

Tips for protecting your perfumes in the heat

The beauty of a perfume and why we don't mind spending a little more on them, compared to our foundations, let's say, is that they can last us for years. But taking care of them is the key to really getting the most out of them. So, to keep your signature scents doing what they do best, Webber has shared some recommendations.

Tips for protecting your perfumes:

1. Keep your scents in a cool, dark place - like a drawer
2. Keep bottles in their original boxes to help protect them from light
3. Always replace the cap immediately after use to reduce exposure to oxygen.
4. Invest in a travel atomiser to decant your favourites and store them in your handbag
5. Never leave perfume in a parked car, even for a short time

And in case you're on the hunt for some summer perfume recommendations, Armstrong recommends fresh, airy perfumes - but not applied directly to the skin.

"In extreme heat, I prefer lighter application and gravitate towards fresher fragrance families," Armstrong says, before adding that "Applying fragrance to clothing rather than heavily sun-exposed skin can also help it wear more beautifully throughout the day. And of course, staying hydrated and cool helps every fragrance feel fresher." LUMIRA's Sun Soaked scent is a gorgeous take on a solar perfume, in case you're in the market for one.

The woman&home Skin Awards are back, and this year we have 80 winners to announce on Thursday, June 25th!

With an overwhelming amount of skincare available, finding the best products for you can be a challenge. This is why our woman&home Skin Awards exist - we're here to cut through the jargon and encourage you to invest in products that really work.

After weeks of rigorous testing, we finally awarded 80 products with a prestigious Skin Award, including everything from the best eye creams and best vitamin C serums to the best cleansing balms. These awards wouldn't be possible without the time, insight and diligence of our 21 judges, so let us tell you a little more about their impressive credentials.

Meet our 2026 Skin Awards judges