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.

If there’s one accessory on everyone’s wishlists right now, it’s the midi New York by DeMellier. The slightly more compact, younger sibling of DeMellier’s New York bag, it has been spotted resting on the arms of A-listers from Katie Holmes to Reese Witherspoon.

It’s no surprise that the style is favoured by so many, available in a range of different fabrics and colourways, including a timeless black leather and a more on-trend mocha suede. But beyond the tones and textures, it is the neat and polished silhouette of the midi New York that really captures attention, exuding a timeless elegance while remaining versatile.

But while the midi New York bag is a great investment, you do have to invest if you want to add one to your handbag collection. It’s not the most expensive designer bag out there by a mile, but its £475 price tag means I've been looking for one of the best designer lookalikes. And I’ve found it in the form of JW PEI’s Hana medium tote bag, which is currently 20% off in the Amazon Prime Day sale.

Shop Affordable Alternative to DeMellier's Midi New York

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On top of the nearly identical silhouette this JW PEI bag shares with DeMellier’s midi New York, what really stands out about it is its roomy opening. If you’ve been looking longingly at the DeMellier bag, you’ll know that its trapeze-like shape is not only designed to be aesthetically pleasing but also practical, with the generous side folds allowing the bag to completely open up its spacious interior. The JW PEI bag does just this, capturing the sophisticated shape and its practicality, too.

The big difference between the bags is their materials, with the JW PEI Hana tote bag made from polyester, rather than sustainable leather, to reduce its price. However, we do get something from the affordable Amazon find that we don’t get from DeMellier: more colours. There is a range of tones and textures when it comes to the midi New York bag, but JW PEI have clearly taken the spring/summer fashion colour trends for 2026 into account and has released both a trending red and an elegant earthy green shade, which are not on-trend options available from DeMellier – yet, at least.

Whichever bag draws your attention, it’s sure to become an everyday hero in your summer capsule wardrobe and beyond. It’s one of those bags that's the perfect size for every occasion, whether you’re pulling together date night outfit ideas or heading to the office – and we love an all-rounder when it comes to our handbags.

I've been looking for a summer shoe that's somewhere in between my most comfortable sandals and my best white trainers for taking on holiday. Something lightweight, easy to pack in a suitcase and convenient to slip on and off.

Leather ballet flats feel a bit too heavy, and although I love the look of jelly shoes, my feet do not love the feel of them. It was when I was scrolling through looking for Amazon Prime Day deals that I came across a classic pair of TOMS Alpargata espadrilles, which fit the bill perfectly. Remember those?

Back in the day, everyone from the Olsen sisters to Jessica Alba adored these canvas slip-ons. In 2006, TOMS founder Blake Mycoskie designed a pair of shoes based on the traditional canvas shoes worn by Argentinian polo players and farmers. And they didn't just look good - he pledged that for every pair of shoes sold, a pair would be given to a child who needed them.

Fast forward twenty years, and the TOMS Alpargata is still a bestseller thanks to its incredibly lightweight design. They're perfect for the heatwave or for a holiday, and much like my beloved Superga trainers, they're easy to chuck in the washing machine when they need freshening up,

You don't just have to take my word for it. The TOMS Alpargata espadrilles have got a whopping 11,300 reviews on Amazon, including one customer who wrote: "They are very comfortable, easy to wear and keep clean. Just pop them into the washing machine when needed, the colour lasts well even after multiple washes."

Another added: "This is my 5th pair of Toms. I have them in lots of different colours. They are quite simply the comfiest of slip on summer shoes. As always fantastic quality and well made. I put them in the washing machine and they always come out without any issues. These are a great price on Amazon."

A lot of people seem to agree they're a solid contender for best slippers, too, since they're light and comfy to wear around the house, but are durable enough to pop outside whenever needed.

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Personally, I love my Archies arch support flip-flops, but I can also totally understand why people aren't a fan of the toe post design. It can cause blisters, especially in hot weather like we're having this week.

That's why Jennifer Lawrence's slider sandals particularly caught my attention when she was pictured wearing them last month. And not for the first time, either. She's more regularly spotted in luxury shoes by The Row, so I knew the adidas Adilette Comfort 2.0 Slides must be good for her to make an exception.

They normally cost a reasonable £38, so when I stumbled across my size for just over £20 in the Amazon Prime Day sale - well, as you can imagine, I ran to the checkout. Boasting the iconic adidas 3 stripe design, they're lightweight, breathable and can be worn with everything from summer dresses to linen trousers. I'm excited to try that Cloudfoam sole, too.

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Don't just take Jennifer's word on these adidas slides. One Amazon customer wrote: "After a long journey of finding the perfect slides, these are them! I am sensitive when it comes to sandals especially because most slides have a seem sewn on the front part that runs with the toes. This doesn't have any and is soft. Perfect slides."

Another added: "The Cloudfoam footbed is genuinely impressive - way softer and more cushioned than my previous Adilettes. The footbed itself is wide and roomy which I wasn't expecting, and the strap holds everything snug without feeling restrictive. Honestly more comfortable than I thought they'd be stepping out of the box."

Vans Brooklyn trainers were initially created as a men's shoe, but the style was so popular that the brand decided to release a women's version of the cool canvas and suede design.

While I love wearing my best white trainers with pretty floral summer dresses, a pair of dark trainers is definitely a capsule wardrobe must-have, particularly for the cooler months. Thanks to the pared-back, minimalist design, this black-and-white style is great for teaming with smart tailoring or jeans.

With a slightly chunkier profile than the classic Vans Old Skool trainers, Vans Brooklyn trainers are a great option if you're after Adidas Samba alternatives that offer a more cushioned sole and wider toe.

Vans Brooklyn trainers are extremely comfortable as they have a wider toe cap shape, which allows for more wiggle room. The shoe also benefits from the brand's skate shoe know-how, offering a cushioned sole that really will put a spring in your step.

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Vans Brooklyn trainers: comfort & support

Thanks to their heritage as a skate shoe company, Vans trainers are known for making comfortable trainers. All of their styles include a supportive sole that helps protect your foot by cushioning it from impact with a flexible yet supportive sole. Vans Brooklyn trainers also include an ankle cuff that is more padded than other styles, meaning that your heel is protected and the shoe needs less wearing in than some other trainers.

The shoes themselves are not too heavy, so you can wear them for long stretches without feeling weighed down, thanks to the combination of suede and canvas upper materials. This dual fabric upper also contributes to a lighter shoe weight than full-suede upper styles and allows for an easy wearing-in period. Thanks to these two natural materials, the Vans Brooklyn trainer offers a degree of breathability, despite not having vents.

When it comes to sizing, Vans Brooklyn trainers are mostly true to size, but you might find that for some variants, such as the platform style, sizing down by half a size will help the fit, as the sole has less give.

However, there is one crucial aspect to consider when purchasing a pair of Vans Brooklyn trainers - unlike Adidas Sambas, Gazelles and Handball Spezials, this style lacks in-built arch support and has a completely flat footbed inner. This could affect your comfort if you're on your feet for long periods of time or have flat feet and need additional arch support.

Vans Brooklyn Trainers: Style

When it comes to stylish designs, Vans Brooklyn trainers have a cool, pared-back aesthetic. The classic monochrome colour combination fits seamlessly with a selection of outfits while the low-profile shape finishes under the ankle, creating a flattering cut.

Despite the wider, more rounded toe cap, the canvas and suede upper add minimal bulk to your foot, so they feel slick and streamlined, while the white sole gives them a lighter look.

It's not just the classic black-and-white combination that's available, either - there are fully black or fully white versions perfect for wearing with your favourite white jeans outfits.

For those who prefer colourful trainers, the design is also available in a variety of seasonal colours, ranging from burgundy and pink to beige and green colourways, so you're sure to find a pair for every summer outfit idea.

Vans Brooklyn Trainers: Cleaning & Care

With suede leather detailing on the uppers of the Vans Brooklyn trainers, it's generally not recommended to machine wash this style. Instead, it's best to carefully spot-wash stains, using a dry brush to lift out dirt before applying any liquids.

However, if your trainers are heavily soiled, there are steps you can take to minimise damage from a washing machine. First, using a suede brush or old toothbrush, give them a gentle brush to remove the worst of any dried-in stains. If your shoes are muddy, allow them to dry first before brushing to avoid pushing the stain deeper into the fabric or spreading it wider.

If you need to loosen any baked-on stains on the canvas areas, try using a bristle brush such as a toothbrush on the hard-wearing fabric to lift out the worst and then remove the laces and insoles, but don’t forget to add them to your wash too! You may want to give white laces a gentle soak in a whitening cleanser before placing them in a net bag to avoid tangling.

When putting your shoes in the washing machine, it’s best to place them into a mesh bag inside the very middle of a full wash to prevent any damage to the drum. Sheets or towels are a good option as they will fill the drum, adding a protective cushion.

It's best to wash your shoes on a cooler wash, as hot temperatures can cause the rubber to warp and the glue holding the shoes together to deteriorate.

After they’re washed, stuff the toes with newspaper or something similar to help them retain their shape and stop the fabrics from shrinking. Leave them somewhere warm to dry naturally - never place your shoes in the tumble dryer as the heat will cause them to shrink and warp.

Vans Brooklyn Trainers: How we tested them

There's no better way to test trainers than to wear them - I donned a pair of Vans Brooklyn Trainers for a week to see if they lived up to their bestselling hype, and after a brief breaking-in period, I was blown away by their comfort.

My top tip is to swap Millennial favourite hidden socks for a pair of retro mid-calf sports socks - this thicker style will help buffer against any initial rubbing at your Achilles and around the heel and help them soften up quickly.

I wore my pair for a variety of events - from running around town on appointments, errands and meetings to day-to-day tasks such as the school run and was surprised at just how comfortable they were, the canvas and suede quickly moulding to my feet.

My only bugbear? The overly long laces - I'll be swapping them over for the elastic shoelace hack that has changed all of my trainers for the better.

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Vans Brooklyn Trainers: Verdict

With an incredibly affordable price tag and comfortable fit, Vans Brooklyn trainers are an excellent style to add to your wardrobe.

Their classic, low-key style makes them the perfect addition to every wardrobe and their versatility is a definite plus, particularly if you’re packing for a mini break or hand luggage only.

While they might need a little bit of breaking in, once they’ve moulded to your foot they are extremely comfortable, even for those spending a whole day on their feet.

Last week, while my husband was utterly absorbed in a work call, our puppy mistook my beloved leather ankle boots for a new chew toy. I was heartbroken.

So after a few days of mourning them, I decided to treat myself to a seriously decent pair of FitFlop boots – this time, ones I would absolutely keep under lock and key when not on my feet. And so it was that I paid the full £120 retail price for the FitFlop iQushion Leather Zip Ankle Boots. I browsed the FitFlop sale and didn't see them there, so I splashed out. I didn’t hesitate. I was worth it.

And then Amazon pressed the launch button on Prime Day and totally ruined my week. Right now, the same boots are slashed by a massive 67%, bringing them down to just £39.70. Am I thrilled that you can grab this absolute steal of the summer? Yes. Am I utterly raging that I didn't wait a week to save myself eighty quid? Absolutely.

If you haven’t discovered FitFlop’s smarter footwear yet, let me introduce you to the ultimate everyday leather ankle boot. Truthfully, I’ve always steered clear of FitFlop because shoes are my thing, and I’d rather go barefoot forever than stray into “comfort shoe” territory. But these feel like absolute heaven, even on a 10,000+ step day.

Yes, this is a boot designed with comfort rather than glamour in mind — but oh, how welcome that comfort is when you finally experience it and realise what you’ve been missing. There’s an anatomically contoured footbed that follows the natural curve of your foot, and an ultra-light iQushion midsole made of high-rebound air-foam that retains its shape over time. Pair that with so-called “impact pillows” under the heel and forefoot to absorb pavement shock, and you’ve got yourself the comfiest boots you’ll ever wear.

That’s not all — they’re ergonomically engineered to help optimise your body’s alignment, natural movement, and energy, so whether you’re trekking over sand dunes or trudging through Tesco, your lower back will barely notice.

My one initial hesitation was whether the premium leather upper would soften up, as the back of my ankle took a little rubbing during the first week of wear. But they’re already buttery soft and as comfy as can be. I also love the side zip closure — because no one has time for wet boot laces.

One more thing: these boots have grippy road-tread outsoles that have me confidently marching along slippery forest paths I’d normally tiptoe across, fully expecting to end up flat on my face.

So please, learn from my very expensive mistake: do not leave your favourite shoes within reach of a hungry dog, and certainly do not pay full price for FitFlops when there’s a Prime Day sale lurking around the corner.

At under £40, these are a rare treat for your feet — grab them before the sizes sell out.

Meanwhile, I’ll be over here trying to be pleased for you… and quietly cursing my husband.

When thinking about smartwatches, you wouldn't be alone if the Apple Watch was the first to come to mind. For iPhone users, it doesn't get much better for keeping an eye on your health and as an aid in daily life, for everything from making phone calls to mapping a route.

The Garmin Venu 4 is one of the best Garmin watches around. It was top-rated by woman&home after a few months of use, and it's always the one I recommend to people looking for a fitness tracker.

How does it compare to the Apple Watch for fitness tracking and smartwatch features? I've worn them both for a few months recently.

Garmin Venu 4 vs Apple Watch Series 11

Specifications

What it like to wear the Garmin Venu 4 vs Apple Watch Series 11?

Discreet and stylish - two words, both applicable to the Apple Watch Series 11 and Garmin Venu 4. Both have a stainless steel casing (though there is also a titanium casing option for the Apple Watch) and a premium-feeling silicone strap with a toughened glass screen.

The smaller versions (41mm) of both watches weigh the same, although I found the Garmin Venu 4 felt heavier on the wrist than the Apple Watch. This could be the rounder face, which is one of the only design differences between the two. While the square-faced Apple device sits flush on the wrist, the Garmin is slightly raised.

The other key difference is the buttons. Both are touchscreens (which you can turn off if you want), but the Apple Watch has a scrollable crown on the side for easy navigation to and from the homepage and additional screens, as well as a button underneath. The Garmin has two side buttons. Overall, there aren't any major advantages of one over the other. It's down to preference.

Winner: Either - they have very similar designs

What are the smartwatch features like on the Garmin Venu 4 vs Apple Watch Series 11?

The Garmin Venu 4 is billed as one of the most lifestyle-friendly of all Garmin watches. With it, you can plug in your exercise headphones and listen to music directly from Spotify, Amazon Music, or Deezer without taking your phone. You can also send and receive WhatsApp and text messages, make and receive phone calls with the built-in speaker and microphone, and use Garmin Pay to make purchases on your wrist. There's a remote shutter button to take pictures from your phone at a distance and an in-built LED torch, which I've mostly used in dark cupboards in my house, but you could use it to light your way on the trails or as a way to stay visible at night.

If you want your favourite walking app, for example, you can also download it from the Connect IQ store, although I've found the options and compatibility to be limited.

While these options will be enough for most people, it's no match for the Apple Watch's flawless foundation of interconnectivity. I've been taking mine out without my phone recently. It has all the same features of the Garmin Venu 4, including music playback, payment, text and call capabilities, remote picture taking, and many more.

The third-party connectivity is where this device stands out among the two. Whatever app you have on your phone, you can find it for on your Apple Watch, and you can use it in much the same way. Be that your airline app to view and scan your boarding pass at the airport, your workout app to follow along with your favourite Pilates class, or your favourite social media platform.

Winner: Apple Watch

Fitness tracking with the Garmin Venu 4 vs Apple Watch Series 11

At heart, both of these watches are fitness trackers. In testing, I learned that the key difference is that the Apple Watch Series 11 is more beginner-friendly, prioritising simple daily habits (like moving more throughout the day) over progressive workouts and plans. The Garmin Venu 4 is also suitable for beginners as it's easy to use, but it's loaded with serious data for those looking to dive deep into the specifics of their routine and chosen activity, whether that's running, cycling, or going to the gym.

One way the Garmin Venu 4 wins in this area is the Training insights, including Training Readiness, Status, and Effect, and predicted recovery times after a strenuous session, borrowed from the Forerunner range. This makes it easy to see how all your health data intersects. For example, I can see how my sleep affects my recovery and my ability to exercise. While the Apple Watch does have a Training Load feature that compares your workouts over the last seven days to your monthly average, it doesn't take other scores (like your sleep) into account.

So, for example, on my Garmin Venu 4, I can see how a bad night's sleep has impacted my recovery from a recent half-marathon in the heat. My watch will tell me to take it easy, ranking my recovery and current fitness against my baseline. While I don't always follow it, it's a very useful metric to have to find balance between work and rest.

When it comes to workouts like strength training, the Garmin shines. Like other watches from the brand, the Venu 4 automatically counts your repetitions and allows you to record set and rest time. I've found this very useful to make sure that I'm having the same amount of rest time between sets, and it's something the Apple Watch doesn't offer. While you'll be able to record the workout, it's not so specific.

That being said, the Apple Watch Series 11 will be more than enough for most people. If you're looking to track your workouts live and record your distance, speed, elevation, and so on, with insights available in the Apple Health app afterwards, this is still an impressive option.

Some advanced insights put the Apple Watch in line with the best running watches, too, including a feature (first found on the Apple Watch Series 9) that allows you to choose the exact lane you're running in during a track session. This makes the insights a lot more accurate than on some other fitness trackers.

All workouts are available to view on the Garmin Connect or Apple Health app. Of the two, for beginners, I do prefer the one from Apple. The Garmin Connect app is loaded with data and insights, but it is harder to navigate if you're not already familiar with relatively complex insights, like vertical oscillation or ground contact time for running.

Winner: Garmin Venu 4 - but the Apple Watch is still a great option for most people

Sleep and health tracking with the Apple Watch vs Garmin Venu 4

The Apple Watch has come on leaps and bounds in recent years with its sleep insights. Users can now get a Sleep Score and a personalised Sleep Schedule, linked to the iPhone's clock, so you'll get a notification when it's time to start winding down for bed. This is one of the small ways the Apple Watch can improve general wellbeing, and I think it's very underrated.

When comparing the Apple Watch vs Oura Ring, for example, the sleep data on the Apple Watch does look more basic. Yet its easy-to-read data in the Health app makes it an accessible and genuinely useful device for most women.

The Garmin Venu 4 also delivers advanced sleep insights and stress insights, linking them together with your exercise metrics in the Readiness score. It's an impressive set-up that can certainly help you change your ways and improve your health. However, the Apple Watch goes that one step further, linking up with your phone to help install those habits into your lifestyle.

The Apple Watch also shines in other health tracking features. While they both have an ECG sensor, a wrist-based pulse oximeter that measures blood oxygen saturation (SpO2), and breathing variations (that may be a sign of sleep apnea), the Apple Watch actively looks out for differences from your baseline and warns you about them. For example, if you have any instances of high blood pressure, it will flag them and encourage you to manually log data for a week to share with a doctor, who will be able to diagnose you. The Venu 4 simply records the data, and it's up to you to look at it.

Winner: Apple Watch

Apple Watch vs Garmin Venu 4: Price and alternatives

The Garmin Venu 4 sells for £469.99 at full price, but there are a large number of discounts available at the time of writing, thanks to the Amazon Prime Week sale. The same goes for the Apple Watch Series 11. It is £100 cheaper than the Venu 4 as standard, but right now, you can also save 22%.

Here's where you can save on both watches:

There are a couple of alternatives to both that could be a better option for you, depending on a few factors. If you have an Android phone, you can't use the Apple Watch. In this case, I'd recommend having a look at the Google Pixel 4. It's a smartwatch with big similarities to the Apple Watch, but suitable for Android users.

For those interested in the Garmin Venu 4 but without the budget, it's worth weighing up the Garmin Venu vs Vivoactive ranges, as the new Vivoactive 6 has many of the same features and insights as the Venu 4, but you trade in the premium low-key design for a sporty, polymer-based design.

Winner: Depends on budget

Garmin Venu 4 vs Apple Watch Series 11: The w&h verdict

Taking price and suitability for most people into account, the Apple Watch Series 11 wins out overall. If you are an iPhone user, it's a no-brainer. The range of fitness, sleep, and general health-tracking features is not to be sniffed at, because the Garmin Venu 4 has more advanced options.

The only real downside to this watch is the battery life. At 24 hours with normal use, it's far below the Garmin Venu 4's 10-day estimate, which I've found to be very accurate. Over the last few weeks, I have found charging to be an issue. At one point, I went to check my sleep data, only to find the watch had run out of battery overnight.

If you're looking for advanced fitness and wellbeing insights, want a few smartwatch features but don't need a replacement for your phone, and you have a higher budget to spend, then the Garmin Venu 4 may be the more suitable option for you.

The Training metrics make it a touch more advanced and allow you to dig deep into the data and your personal fitness, giving you the insights to improve them with a view of your wellbeing from all angles.

Overall winner: Apple Watch

During the heat, who can deny the effortlessly stylish appeal of Birkenstock Arizonas? This summer, I may be tempted to invest in the lighter shaded variations for a warm-weather update.

The celebrity look that has got me on the hunt for the stone or taupe coloured Arizonas is from an archive look of Julianne Moore. She styled these coveted sandals to perfection back in 2023 as part of her daytime attire.

Creating a breezy white jeans outfit, she styled a boxy ivory-coloured t-shirt, a white baseball cap, and a brown leather crossbody bag. Adding to the neutral outfit, she wears the taupe Birkenstock Arizona for a practical and stylish touch.

Not only are the Birkenstock Arizonas some of the most comfortable sandals, but this coveted style makes every outfit feel effortlessly put-together. And the once anti-fashion shoe has solidified its place in every summer capsule wardrobe, thanks to its chunky sole and utilitarian design.

And although the darker shade variations are often favoured for their versatile styling options, the lighter shades such as taupe or grey, are an elevated alternative, especially when it comes to styling neutral outfits.

The warm taupe or light brown shade feels perfect for pairing with bright white dresses or floaty linen trousers. That's the great thing about these two-strap sandals: they quite literally go with anything. Plus, if you're shopping on a budget their are plenty of lookalike designs which could easily be mistaken for the real thing, including these sandals from Dream Pairs.

This isn't the only time we've spotted Julianne Moore wearing these reliable summer shoes, and she also wore them alongside a pair of jeans and a blazer outfit, showing that when styled correctly, they can be smart-casual too.

Buying jeans can be a tricky task. As well as finding a length, shape and colour that works for you and ticks the key denim trends 2026, a lot of us struggle with finding a pair that fits snugly at both the waist and the hips. This has been a problem for me for as long as I can remember, but I’ve found a very easy solution with this pack of faux buttons for just £3.99 at Amazon - and they have transformed how my jeans sit.

These clever little DIY buttons can be pushed through and secured to the waistband on your jeans or trousers to create an instant new fastener, which can easily be adjusted to find your perfect fit. My sister told me about this handy style hack when I was complaining about my ill-fitting denim struggles earlier this year. She very proudly showed off her add-on button that she had attached to her barrel-leg jeans, and I was really impressed with how neat they looked. I had been with her all day and hadn’t noticed that her jeans had been tweaked! I ordered some straight away, and I have been using this figure-flattering trick ever since.

The buttons come in a pack of 6 pairs, which all have slightly different designs and metallic finishes, so you can match them to your denim nicely. They look like a normal jean fastener, but come with a removable back (a bit like a stud earring). You simply take off the back and push the spiky pin through your waistband, before securing the back on again, and voila! You can then fasten your jeans onto the new button, which will pull in the waistband by an inch or two to create a much neater fit without affecting how the jean legs sit.

Buy the faux buttons

Of course, there are limits to how much these buttons can do. They won't work to take jeans down by a couple of sizes - it's more of a subtle tweak to help your denim fit more snugly. If you place the pin button a few inches away from the original clasp, then it may cause the zip area and front to look a little lopsided or very obviously fixed, but if you’re looking to cinch in your waistband by just an inch or two, then it's barely noticeable and very easy to do. I've been wearing mine a lot over the last few weeks, and nobody has spotted them so far.

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These buttons work well to fix a number of problems. Perhaps you have stretchy denim that can lose its shape after a few hours of wear, or you might have lost weight recently but don’t want to say goodbye to old favourite skinny jeans just yet. I’ve got an hourglass figure, and my hips are much curvier than my waist, so this really has been the ultimate and easiest solution for making sure my jeans are working with my shape rather than against me – and all without the big spend.

I expected the back clasp to pop off after a while, but I have worn the buttons from morning til night without any problems - once on, they stay put, and I genuinely forget all about them. They don't leave a messy hole in the fabric either - the pin bit is very thin, so there is minimal damage to jeans.

One thing to flag is to remove the buttons before throwing your denim in the wash, though. The clasp is very sturdy (and actually takes a bit of elbow work to take off!), but I'm not sure how well they would hold up in the machine - and you don't want a little piece of metal getting lost in the system post-rinse.

The add-on pins are also handy as a replacement if an original button has fallen off your jeans or even a denim jacket or dress, and they can be used on a range of fabrics and styles with ease.

I'm so grateful to my sister for bringing these handy pins into my life - it means I can keep hold of jeans that are a little too big for me, and make sure they always look flattering. Not bad for less than a fiver!

I haven't stopped wearing - or telling people about - my Archies arch support flip-flops since I tested them out last summer. I first tried them because Jennifer Aniston is a fan, and she's a flip-flop aficionado (try saying that five times fast). Since then, I must have done thousands and thousands of steps in mine, whether that's out of the house in the summer, or at home in the colder months.

I keep seeing adverts on social media for the new colourways they've got and have been feeling tempted, but Katie Holmes just tipped me into 'add to basket' territory. She was recently pictured in New York, wearing Archies arch support flip-flops in coral, and they were an effortlessly simple and minimalist addition to her denim skirt.

Let's face it, it's rare to find shoes that are both comfortable and stylish, but these tick all the boxes for me. They work with every outfit, and when it's this hot, they're truly the only thing I wear. £35 might be more than you've spent on flip-flops before now, but trust me, the support they offer your feet is worth every penny.

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How to style yours

As I wrote in my review last year, I've never been a big fan of flip-flops before now, but I'm a total convert to Archies. They're so supportive, comfortable and lightweight that I put them on and forget I'm wearing them. £35 well spent, if you ask me!

A clothes steamer is something I'd never even contemplated buying until recently, because I've always thought I enjoyed ironing. Unlike so many other household chores, there's something almost meditative about it – a basket of freshly washed laundry, the living room to myself, something soothing on Netflix, and occasionally even a compensatory glass of wine within reach. It's the one domestic task I've never really minded.

Or at least that's how things were, until one of my sons started needing a freshly pressed shirt every single day for his shift on the reception desk of a busy seaside hotel. Overnight, my calm little ironing ritual turned into something stressful: last-minute shirt emergencies, daily lessons in ironing, and repetitive lectures on the importance of getting your clothes ready before you're due to be at work.

I decided there must be an easier way and ordered a handheld clothes steamer after I spotted one in an early Amazon Prime Day deal. Reader, it changed my life. I went for the Philips Handheld Steamer 3000 Series, a compact handheld garment steamer designed to remove creases without needing an ironing board. I'd hoped it might save us a few minutes before work each morning, but it ended up replacing my iron altogether.

I haven't touched the iron since the clothes steamer arrived. Turns out it hasn't just solved my son's problem – it has given me back the gift of free time – something I'd almost forgotten existed. I'm now genuinely considering dropping my iron into my local charity shop.

What surprised me most wasn't how well it removed creases (although it does that impressively well – see before and after pics of a linen pillowcase below) but how quickly it slotted into everyday life. It takes two seconds to fill the detachable water tank, which holds 100ml or enough to steam a single outfit, so you can literally go from creased to presentable in less time than it would take me to wrestle my ironing board into place and heat up the iron.

I didn’t fully appreciate, in the clothes steamer vs iron debate, just how much of my mental load is consumed by ironing compared to steaming. There's wrestling with the ironing board, waiting for the iron to heat up, plus the constant repositioning of the iron around fiddly buttons and cuffs. Not to mention the sense that you still have a mountain to climb every time you glance at how much laundry is left in the basket.

A handheld steamer puts an end to all of that – you just hang up the garment, run the steamer over it, and carry on with your day. There's no big setup involved, and you don't have to psyche yourself up for the task.

Clothes steamer accessories

Admittedly, there's also no reason to decamp to the living room anymore for an evening in charge of the remote control. But the knock-on effect has been unexpectedly liberating: those pockets of time that used to. get swallowed whole by the ironing pile are now mine to use as I wish. I'm sure it's no coincidence that I recently started working on my novel again. Is this the best clothes steamer money can buy? I've no idea, but thanks to my impulsive clothes steamer purchase, working on a creative project no longer feels like something I'll never get around to. Now, it's just something I find myself with time and headspace to pick back up.

Perhaps that’s the real question, if you're contemplating buying a clothes steamer – not whether you enjoy ironing or find it meditative. But if swapping your iron for a handheld steamer suddenly freed up time in your week, what might you choose to do with it instead?

Best of all, steaming is so simple, especially compared to ironing a shirt, that my son can take over shirt duty himself now. See? A clothes steamer really did turn out to be one of the best things I've ever bought.

As a mum of two little ones, I often find that my handbag becomes the place for everybody’s essentials while we are away. From wet wipes and sun cream to sun hats and snacks, my bag always becomes the storage solution for the whole family, and by the end of the trip, it can be hard to find anything at the bottom of my usual tote. Because of this, I’ve been browsing for a practical-meets-pretty accessory for an upcoming holiday, and I think I’ve found it in the G4Free Foldable Beach Bag from Amazon.

We are heading to the south coast for a few days this summer, which will be filled with beach fun, countryside strolls and exploring the local sights, and this bargain bag looks like it will store all the day-to-day stuff and keep me organised while working with my summer capsule wardrobe nicely - and all for less than £30.

The bold pink and red striped design grabbed my attention at first, but it actually offers more than just a punchy pattern. This tote has been cleverly designed to have plenty of useful-sized pockets on the inside and out, as well as a roomy middle that promises to be big enough to stash clothing, sandals, bottles and even a laptop while still being very light, as it comes in at just 0.99lbs. It looks ideal for keeping everything neat and safe, and the inner pockets have zips to look after the important stuff like keys and bank cards.

Shop the bag

While lots of beach bags offer pockets, this one does even more than that. Firstly, the fabric is water-resistant, which makes it a winner for the beach (or when the Great British weather inevitably lets us down!), and it is sand-proof, so it can easily be dusted off after a day in front of the sea without bringing half the beach back with you. It would work really well as a cabin bag for all your in-flight essentials as well.

Another huge plus point for me is that this bag folds down to be stored in a handy matching pouch in between uses. The roomy tote can be flattened and folded to sit neatly away, which is great and means it can be stashed in the car boot or a drawer without taking up too much space.

I'm certainly not alone in loving this bag. One reviewer wrote: "Have had many beach bags but this one is the absolute best! Holds a ton of stuff and has multiple pockets on outside and inside. Has a bottle opener inside as well. Has a cooler or wet storage area... It’s lightweight and folds up very well! It’s made with high quality materials."

Shop more beach bags

Once we get back from our week away, I won't be ditching this cleverly designed bag either. It looks like it'll be great for stashing everything from my gym kit to my work stuff, and it will be ideal for storing picky bits for a picnic in the park.

The stripes may be bold, but an accessory like this will work well with most outfits. It'll inject some fun and interest into a plainer maxi dress or T-shirt and jeans look, and will create a fashionable clash with florals or polka dots in a similar colourway.

It can be hard to find a bag that manages to look chic while being properly useful, but the G4Free tote really does tick both boxes perfectly. The stripes combined with very handy pockets are a winning combination, and I can see this accessory being my go-to all summer long.

We're now into the final hours of the Amazon Prime Day sale, meaning there's not long left to snap up this year's biggest bargains before prices return to normal. It won't surprise you to learn that shoppers have been rushing to buy portable fans and other cooling essentials to help them stay comfortable during the recent heatwave.

Whether you're refreshing your wardrobe for summer, investing in skincare that actually delivers, giving your home a seasonal update or finally replacing those everyday essentials you've been meaning to upgrade, tonight is your last chance to make your money go further at Amazon.

We've rounded up the very best deals across fashion and beauty, health and wellbeing, and homes and gardens, focusing on products that offer genuine value rather than impulse buys you'll regret next week. From flattering wardrobe staples like the best white trainers or the most comfortable bras to fitness favourites like the best fitness trackers to improve your wellbeing, below you'll find the offers worth adding to your basket before 11.59 pm.

Our editors spend the year researching, testing and reviewing a whole host of products to separate the genuinely brilliant from the overhyped. So every recommendation has been chosen because it's something we'd happily buy ourselves – helping you shop smarter, save money and invest in pieces you'll enjoy long after the sales have ended.

Best last-chance Amazon Prime Day deals

• Beauty: Save on skincare, make-up, haircare and fragrance
• Cooling: Fans, air conditioners and air purifiers
• Fashion: Up to 40% off clothing, shoes, handbags and accessories
• Garden: Deals on garden furniture and accessories
• Health: Wellness, fitness and self-care essentials
• Home: Kitchen, bedding, storage and cleaning deals.

Best Prime Day cooling deals

Best Prime Day footwear deals

Best Prime day beauty deals

When does Amazon Prime Day 2026 end?

Very soon! Amazon Prime Day 2026 ends at 11.59 pm tonight, Friday 26 June. Once the clock strikes midnight, deals will end and prices will revert to their standard retail rates.

Do prices drop further in the final hours?

No. Core prices for major brands like Ninja, Dyson, Shark, and Hoka remain stable until they sell out. Waiting until the last minute risks the item going out of stock entirely.

Prime Day is just around the corner, running from 23-26 June 2026, and that means thousands of footwear discounts are on their way – but not every shoe deal is worth adding to your basket. Having covered countless Amazon sales over the years, I’ve learned that the best Prime Day purchases aren’t always the ones with the biggest price cuts – the real wins are usually products you’d happily buy at full price, simply picked up for less when the timing is right.

You can keep track of all the latest offers as they go live in our dedicated Prime Day deals hub, but if you’re planning summer holidays, walking more, commuting, or spending long days on your feet, a pair of comfortable trainers is one of the smartest Prime Day buys you can make. Skechers has built its reputation on comfort that lasts – something most of us value far more than fleeting trends. And with Skechers deals expected to feature heavily once Prime Day begins, the challenge isn't finding a bargain, but choosing the right pair for your needs.

If you’re new to the brand, it’s worth exploring our Skechers Summits and Skechers BOBS Keepsakes Lite Slippers reviews to see how wearable the designs really are – the cushioning is genuinely supportive, the fits are forgiving, and the styling sits comfortably between practical and put-together. Or, if you’re ready to shop, keep reading for our expert roundup of the best early Skechers deals ahead of Prime Day.

Quick links

• Amazon – Shop the best Skechers deals
• Skechers outlet – today's top Skechers deals
• Sports Direct – up to 50% off Skechers

If you only buy one pair

The Skechers Summits Artistry Chic is one of the 'safest' buys in the Skechers line-up. Lightweight, comfortable and easy to slip on, these are the trainers I'd recommend to almost anyone looking for an everyday shoe. They're ideal for errands, travel and daily walks, and they're a style our team has consistently rated highly.

For all-day comfort

If you're regularly on your feet for hours at a time, this is the pair I'd be watching during Prime Day. The Arch Fit range has developed a loyal following thanks to its supportive design, making it a popular choice among teachers, healthcare workers and anyone looking for extra comfort throughout the day.

For walking holidays and weekends away

Some trainers look good but rarely make it out of the wardrobe. The Go Walk range is the opposite. Designed with comfort and practicality in mind, these are the shoes you'll find yourself reaching for again and again, whether you're exploring a new city or simply getting your daily steps in.

For a fashion-forward look

One of the reasons the Uno collection remains so popular is that it doesn't look like a traditional comfort trainer. It delivers the cushioning Skechers is known for while offering a cleaner, more versatile silhouette that works well with everything from jeans to summer dresses.

For effortless style

Designed for effortless, no-bend wear, this style features the brand’s signature Slip-ins heel panel and Heel Pillow™ technology, so your foot stays secure without the need for laces or hands-on adjustment.

Autumn is a time where many of us like to dress a little more practically than usual when it comes to footwear. After all, who wants to have cold and wet feet when they're trying to enjoy a seasonal walk? Certainly not us and we're more than a little disappointed that the Princess of Wales's trusty go-to Berghaus walking boots aren't going to be making their way into our autumn capsule wardrobe this year.

Kate wears the Superlite II Gore Tex boots all the time for outdoor engagements and they're currently out of stock on both Berghaus and Amazon. Thankfully for us and anyone else who's looking for reliable footwear, there is an affordable walking shoe alternative we can get hold of - and they're reduced from £49.99 to just £27.99 for Amazon Big Deal Day.

Shop Jack Walker Lily Outdoor Shoes

Shop More On-Sale Walking Shoes

The Jack Walker Lily Outdoor shoes are one of the best walking shoes tested by Susan Griffin for woman&home. They might not have the sleek, chocolate brown tone of the Princess of Wales's Berghaus boots but the soft slate-grey colour is also very versatile.

The pops of turquoise add a little brightness without being too overpowering and Susan scored them highly in terms of functionality in her full Jack Walker Lily Shoes review.

These walking shoes are waterproof, with a relatively lightweight construction and a toe protector to help prevent stubbing. The inner soles are made from memory foam and they have a grippy sole too. If you want to wear them with thicker socks over the colder months, Susan recommended considering going up a size for extra room.

Although the Lily Outdoor Shoes would be perfect to wear hiking, you could also pop them on with leggings and a cosy puffer coat for running errands when it's rainy too.

The grey tone would work well with so many other neutral hues and although functionality is more important than fashion when you're picking waterproof footwear, the Princess of Wales has shown us how to style walking shoes in a chic way.

When she steps out in her Berghaus boots she typically goes for streamlined jeans or trousers that can be tucked neatly into her cosy socks. Her go-to top is a chunky roll neck jumper and then Kate often goes for a waxed jacket or puffer to layer over for extra warmth.

Her boots might be dark brown but the Princess never really worries about colour clashing when she's wearing them. We've seen her combine red, green and blue with these boots, as well as going for grey and tan tones.

As walking shoes are only ever a small part of your wider ensemble we wouldn't worry too much about perfectly coordinating different shades and just embrace them for what they are.

So if you, like us, are tempted to pick up some Jack Walker Lily Outdoor Shoes whilst they're even more affordable, the turquoise detailing doesn't mean you can't wear plenty of other colours with them the next time you go for an autumn walk.

As a beauty editor, people expect me to have a multi-step skin regimen, always remove my makeup before bed, and never skip a day's SPF50 application.

I'll give you a peek behind the curtain and say one of the above is definitely true. But of course, like everyone, I have my skincare routine blind spots and can't be bothered moments too.

On a good day, I'd like to think I have reasonably nice skin quality. But on a bad, hormonal, stressed, or sleep-deprived one, you can bet if I get a compliment, it's because of one product and one product only.

Why this budget-friendly highlighter is my complexion's secret weapon

The best highlighters have a simple brief: to add radiance with reflective pigment. But I think creating one that truly looks like glowing skin, not like skin with a load of highlighter on it, involves meeting a surprisingly complex set of criteria.

The texture must be cream. Powders are too, well, powdery. They don't blend well enough, can sink into lines and pores, and can't accommodate juicy skincare ingredients as a 'wet' formula can.

Shade depends on your skin tone, obviously, but I wouldn't go for anything cool or silvery. Go golden, bronzy, and if you're pale like me, rosy pink to avoid a tarnished tin man effect. Most crucial of all is finish, which must be gleaming but never glittery. Anything too metallic, or with discernible flecks, is out.

See? It's complicated. But not only do I have a highlighter that ticks all of the above boxes, it's also a complete bargain.

Regardless of what's going on with my complexion underneath my Lumi Glotion, this replicates the look of light bouncing off smooth, plump, radiant skin very convincingly indeed.

I put it on my cheeks and cheekbones, and sometimes dab a bit on my collarbones if I've got a low neckline on. You can use it all over under makeup too; in fact, you can apply it just about anywhere. It's lovely on shins if you're wearing anything leg-exposing.

I've had several 'you look fresh' type compliments on technically sad skin days, and it's invariably down to this product, which is a nice little pick-me-up if I'm tired, or having a bad week. Not too shabby for a little tube you can pick up for less than a bunch of flowers, is it?

Consider all your occasion makeup looks sorted from here on out, as I've found the perfect, low-maintenance eyeshadow palette that literally glistens with luxury - and it's 29% off right now.

Forget what you think you know about the glitter eyeshadows. They don't have to feel dry, scratchy, or cascade down your cheeks when applying. There is such a thing as a comfortable and no-fuss shimmer. In fact, there are several, but I know of four, in particular, that come housed in one very convenient palette. Urban Decay's Space Rider Moondust quad has swiftly become my go-to for a quick and chic, light-catching eye look. I'm talking 30 seconds to sweep it across the lid and chase with my best mascara.

And though it might seem a little out there upon first glance (after all, the shades are inspired by space), despite their otherworldly gleam, they're surprisingly versatile and wearable. If you remain unconvinced, here's why this gilded palette is actually quite the game-changer, especially with party season inbound.

Why Urban Decay's Moondust palette is my secret to sparkling, party-ready eyes

As mentioned, I'm not usually an eye makeup person. I tend to call it a day at just curling my lashes and applying a quick coat of mascara, because often I find that eyeliner and shadows can quickly overwhelm my eyes and look too heavy. So, if I do wear either, I err on the side of caution, with just a very subtle solo colour or thin wing applied.

Urban Decay's Moondust palette, though, is the glittering exception. I don't fear the glisten; in fact, I've been known to wear it to work and just out and about, no occasion needed.

Now, if you've been following our makeup content for some time, especially around festive looks, you'll know our team's love for Urban Decay's Space Cowboy eyeshadow runs deep. This palette features the cult-favourite champagne-y hue, along with three other shades: Star Cowgirl, which is a soft nude shimmer, Wild Dipper Rides Again - a rose-gold - and Cosmic Space Dust, a glistening taupe brown.

So what makes this palette of shimmers so appealing, even to someone who has just stated that they tend to avoid eyeshadow, I hear you ask? Well, for starters, look how pretty...

Then there's the matter of texture. These shadows feel like silk, and there's no grittiness or patchiness when you apply them. Their creamy formulas just glide across your lid without any tugging. Personally, like with many of the best cream eyeshadows, I recommend applying them with your finger, as I find this prevents any glitter fallout and really sheers out the colour, but you can also use a brush.

As for the colours themselves, while they may look very sparkly and perhaps a tad bright and youthful, they're buildable. Space Cowboy, for instance, offers a flattering tint of champagne, but it's initially very subtle and can be blended out to appear more sheer. Of course, you can also create a statement look by applying more of it, or you can add it over top of another pigmented shadow, depending on your preference.

I find that just one quick dusting with my finger is enough to add a very literal twinkle to my eyes, though, without looking too 'done' or occasion-y.

While the actual tint of these shades is, as discussed, quite versatile and buildable, the shimmer is very much there from first swipe, and downright hypnotising. The teeny tiny glitter particles recreate a 'wet' look sheen across your lids, which again feels more approachable than a chunky glitter and can be layered for a more blinding gleam.

How to apply Urban Decay's Moondust eyeshadows

My favourites of the four are Space Cowboy and Cosmic Space Dust; the former looks quite coppery on my pale skin, while the latter leaves a soft, muted-brown sheen, which I love for a more sultry, evening feel.

When I wear these shadows, I just blend them across my entire lid with my ring finger. This gives my eyes the most gorgeous, subtle veil of shimmer with very little effort involved, which then catches the light every time I move my head or blink.

I then finish the look with mascara, though you can of course add your best eyeliners (as I have in the fourth picture), or create more of a gradient, smoky eye.

I prefer natural makeup, but find I reach for this palette every time I want to change things up a bit, be it for a dinner out or party, as they add just the right amount of oomph to my look. I feel confident when I wear them, which is the most important thing, and to be honest, I forget I'm even wearing eyeshadow at all - that's how lightweight, low-maintenance and long-lasting they are.

Their creamy formula is also perfect for transforming your makeup from day to night, and they photograph beautifully too, especially with flash - something to keep in mind with party season on the way.

All in all, despite being a tad pricey, I think the versatility of this palette makes it well worth the spend - and you can often find it discounted at retailers like Amazon and Sephora.

Amazon Prime Day is almost over, with less than two hours remaining before this year's four-day shopping event comes to an end.

If you've been waiting to hit 'buy', now is the time. Prime Day officially ends at 11.59pm tonight (Friday 26 June), after which thousands of discounts across beauty, fashion, home, health and technology are expected to disappear.

While some offers have already sold out, there are still plenty of significant savings to be found if you shop before midnight.

What time does Amazon Prime Day end?

Amazon Prime Day 2026 finishes at 11.59pm BST on Friday 26 June.

That means shoppers now have less than two hours to take advantage of exclusive Prime member discounts before the sale ends.

Historically, many products return to full price as soon as the event finishes, although a handful of offers may linger over the weekend while stocks last.

Is it still worth shopping Prime Day?

Absolutely – particularly if you snap up a deal on something you planned to purchase anyway

Many of the headline deals sold out earlier this week – fans and portable air conditioning units were particularly popular – but many of the strongest discounts are still available across fashion, beauty, home and wellness, making these final hours a good opportunity to pick up genuine bargains.

Among the biggest savings we've seen this year are:

• Electric toothbrushes
• Fashion essentials, footwear and accessories
• Fitness trackers and wellness products
• Kitchen appliances, including air fryers and coffee machines
• Kindle e-readers and Amazon devices
• Premium skincare and beauty tools
• Robot vacuum cleaners and home cleaning gadgets

What sells out first?

Some of Prime Day's most popular products have already gone out of stock, particularly cooling devices after this week's hot weather.

If you're still shopping tonight, we'd prioritise any products you've already been considering, as stock can disappear quickly during the final hours.

Three last-minute Prime Day shopping tips

1. Buy it if it's already on your wishlist

If you've been tracking a product throughout the week and it's now at a price you're happy with, there's little to gain from waiting until the final minutes of the sale.

2. Stick to genuine bargains

Prime Day is at its best when you use it to save money on products you genuinely need, whether that's replacing a household appliance, stocking up on favourite beauty buys or investing in something you've been planning to purchase.

3. Don't leave it until 11.59pm

Popular products regularly sell out before the official end of the sale, so if you've found a deal you're happy with, checking out sooner rather than later could help avoid disappointment.

What happens after midnight?

Once Prime Day ends at 11.59pm tonight, the vast majority of discounts will disappear and prices are expected to return to their usual levels.

If you miss out, Amazon's next major sale is typically Prime Big Deal Days later this year, followed by Black Friday in November. However, many of today's lowest prices are unlikely to return until then.

My autumn/winter wardrobe wouldn't be the same without boots but the milder weather so far this season has had me reaching for my best white trainers instead. They're just so versatile and comfortable - something the Princess of Wales knows well.

She's a dedicated heel wearer when she's at formal events but her trusty Superga Cotu Classics have been a staple in her collection for a long time now. I've admired them for a long time and I couldn't help noticing that Kate's Supergas are currently reduced for Amazon Big Deal Day, with many sizes as much as 50% off, making them just £25.

Shop Kate's Superga Trainers

Shop More Trainers On Sale

The streamlined design makes these a great alternative to chunky trainers as they feel more refined and the Amazon discount makes them even more tempting for me. The Cotu Classics have a vulcanised rubber sole and a breathable cotton upper.

They're a brilliant all-rounder shoe and woman&home's Digital Fashion Writer Molly Smith has found them to be one of the most comfortable trainers out there.

Whilst they're not something she'd trek around miles and miles in compared to more padded options or specific walking shoes, they're her pick as everyday trainers. Molly says that they're easy to style and in her Superga 2750 Cotu Classic review, she explains that the tennis shoe inspired design works with so many outfits and she didn't get any blisters.

"They may not be super cushioned but they're reliable, and definitely suitable for all-day wear. They are supportive without being chunky, and fitted but not too tight because of the canvas material, making them my new go-to staple," Molly shares.

The Superga branding is also very subtle on these which is something that can’t be said of all trainers and makes these even simpler to style. The Princess of Wales has worn hers in a number of different ways over the years, mostly with shorts or trousers.

I particularly love the ensemble she wore at Chelsea Flower Show in 2019, which consisted of camel culottes and a broderie anglaise white blouse. Kate also paired her trainers with a forest green suit in Edinburgh in 2021 and even packed them when she and Prince William undertook a visit to Belize in 2022.

On that occasion she wore khaki trousers and a white T-shirt and the shoes finished off her look perfectly and practically. You could also easily style the Superga Cotu Classics with a midi dress too, though I think jeans or trousers are a safer bet in this unpredictable autumn weather.

According to Superga, the Cotu trainers have been in production since 1911 and this long history shows just how timeless they really are, so you don't have to worry about them being a fleeting trend piece.

You might be surprised to learn that Le Creuset's best-selling product is not their hefty, iconic, £230 cast iron casserole dish. Whilst it's no doubt covetable, their mini versions of said dish, the Le Creuset Petite Casserole Dish is the one that everyone ends up buying. And, when it's reduced to just £20 on Amazon, I'd recommend that you buy a few.

The Le Creuset Petite Casserole Dish is the perfect buy for every chef. Whether you're new to the brand and still wondering 'is Le Creuset worth it?' or you're a long-time Le Creuset lover (and owner of their bread oven), this offers the perfect, delicate, colourful compliment to all of their collection.

I've bought these for housewarming gifts, birthdays, and as treats for myself. They're available in all Le Creuset hues and now I get to share that there's a sensational offer on all their mini cocottes - even the brand new fire colourway.

Le Creuset Petite Casserole Dish deal - everything you need to know

Le Creuset’s iconic casserole dish has been on everyone’s wish list for decades. And if you’ve been holding out for a more petite (and more purse-friendly) version, now’s your moment. Le Creuset's Petite Casserole Dish is on sale at Amazon. And yes, it’s currently reduced to £20. If you’re anything like me, you’ll want to grab a few: one for yourself, and a couple for your friends (because who doesn’t love a little Le Creuset surprise?).

The Le Creuset Petite Casserole Dish is the most charming, multi-talented little pot you’ll ever own. They're small but perfectly formed, available in that glorious rainbow of Le Creuset colours, from Marseille blue to Meringue. And I've got all the technical details below:

• Capacity: 0.25L
• Dimensions: 9 x 5 cm
• Crafted from: chip-resistant enamel
• Freezer safe
• Dishwasher safe (handwashing recommended)
• Max temperature: 260°C
• Guarantee: 10 years

Who does the Le Creuset Petite Casserole Dish suit?

These perfect little casseroles are great for those who take pride in presentation. If you’re someone who’s already read up on tablescaping and how to make your home cosy, you’re the kind of person who would make great use of a Le Creuset Mini Round Cocotte. They're a stylish way to serve-up any dishes, from soups through to soufflés (and Le Creuset's website has plenty of examples to peruse).

These are also a great entry point for all the Le Creuset collection. You might be on the fence about whether Le Creuset is worth it, debating whether you want some LC in your cupboards (you do) and this is an inexpensive way to test whether it’s something that you’ll get good use out of or not.

They’re also a great gift, whether it’s housewarming, a birthday, or a little pick me up, for £20 you could either buy wine and chocolates or turn up with this quirky little gift. I know which I’d rather have.

What can I make in the Le Creuset Petite Casserole Dish?

Whilst these casserole dishes are characterised by being 'petite', 'cute', and 'dinky', they have a decent 0.25L capacity. That makes them perfect for a single serving of pie, crumble, or chocolate cake. If you look them up online, you'll see inventive uses for them too, including having them as a simple trinket dish, elegant salt keeper, and quirky tealight holders. I'm still finding uses for mine: they're seemingly endless.

Each casserole dish is crafted from all the same materials as Le Creuset's larger casserole dishes: you've got the stoneware, a snug-fitting lid that locks in heat, moisture, and flavours. They're also microwave, and freezer-safe, so they’re as practical as they are pretty.

Here are a few of my favourite ways to use mine:

For dips, chips, and nibbles

Pop a mini camembert inside, bake until molten, and surround with chunks of crusty bread and crudités. Voilà: an effortlessly chic starter that doubles as the centrepiece of your cheeseboard.

I often use mine as a mini bowl that I fill with snacks to nibble on the sofa. It's not a chic or particularly glamorous set-up, but something about my lovely Le Creuset Petite Casserole Dish elevates the whole aesthetic.

Mini pies

No slicing, no mess, no stress. Just serve each guest their own golden-topped pie in a cocotte and bask in the compliments. I like how tidy the cocotte keeps things and it means I can have a lot of juice and gravy inside my pie. The real beauty of it is that the cast iron and stoneware keeps your creation warm until everyone’s ready to eat.

Soup and bread

I've baked some individual bread rolls in my casserole. It looks great when the top explodes over the top and browns beautifully. Once you've made your bread, this makes a fantastic cocotte for a soup or stew. I love to offer up my soup (this one is a spiced butternut squash) with the bread that I've made in this.

Molten chocolate desert

I have the biggest sweet tooth of everyone that I know, so my Le Creuset might as well be encrusted with sugar. You can think of my molten chocolate cake as your personal fondant fantasy: gooey, rich, and perfectly portioned. You get all the indulgence and none of the stress of collapsing sponge disasters. I don't know why they're not more of a Great British Bake Off staple.

Crumble

I told you that I have a sweet tooth and, whilst I could keep serving up suggestions for deserts and sweet treats, I'll stop at a crumble. There’s something irresistibly cosy about crafting individual crumbles with a drizzle of custard. Bonus: they look adorably like you've made an effort without having to make one at all.

Should you buy the Le Creuset Petite Casserole Dish?

If you’ve ever debated whether Le Creuset is worth it, this little beauty is the perfect gateway piece. It gives you the same quality, heritage, and aesthetic as their iconic cast iron, just in miniature.

For £20, you could turn up to a dinner party with a bottle of wine that’ll be gone by morning or with this, which will be admired (and used) for years to come. Personally, I know which one I’d rather unwrap.

And yes. I’ll be expanding my collection too. After all, can you really have too many tiny casseroles?

The Princess of Wales’s signature style is the epitome of classic but that doesn’t mean she doesn’t ever get tempted to jump on board with certain trends. The clever tactic she uses is to go for low-key trends that are likely to come back into fashion a lot.

Kate has an eye for these things and whilst many of us are rushing to add quilted or barn jackets to our autumn capsule wardrobe for 2025, her quilted jacket is waiting to have another moment to shine. Back in 2023 the Princess of Wales visited Scotland with Prince William and she wore a Burberry checked jacket with black boot cut jeans.

Burberry is known for making some of the best trench coats, but Kate’s quilted jacket still sticks out in my memory because of how it instantly made a simple outfit look a little trendier in the best way. This year the luxury brand has brought out another green Quilted Barn Jacket minus the checked print.

Shop Quilted Jackets

Shop Boot Cut Jeans

The Princess’s outerwear had a neat collar, buttons running down the front and slanted pockets on either side. The quilting was in an ageless diamond pattern and was rather subtle, which worked well given that the pattern was already striking.

The design blended khaki green, beige and black together and I’d always advise going for neutral colours when you’re investing in outerwear. It just makes things easier when you’re putting together different outfits as these sorts of tones work with a lot of others.

A lot of quilted jackets that we’re seeing on sale now tend to be green or brown and the Princess of Wales’s outfit for her visit to the award-winning charity, Outfit Moray, proved how chic these can be.

Until winter hits, we don’t need a heavy coat and a quilted jacket makes a cosy alternative that’s not too thick. She went to Scotland in early November and spent a lot of her and William’s visit out in the elements, as Outfit Moray delivers life-changing outdoor learning and activity programmes for young people.

Kate isn’t one to dress impractically, and she paired her jacket with a chunky navy blue roll neck jumper and black Mother Denim jeans.

Unusually for her, they weren’t streamlined skinny jeans but boot cut ones. It’s not just jeans and a blazer outfits that work well for autumn: jeans and a quilted jacket look equally great. Kate’s were slightly cropped and had the signature boot cut flare.

The black denim tied in with the black in her jacket’s checked pattern and I love the look of the slightly cropped jeans finishing over the top of her ba&sh Coda boots. This was a very wearable daily outfit that had trendy elements yet still felt very timeless.

Lo and behold, two years later quilted jackets and boot cut jeans are back in fashion and I’ll be interested to see if the Princess of Wales re-wears either of these pieces, either separately or together, publicly this season. Even if not, it’s something that we can easily recreate and would be a brilliant option for everything from a country walk to a coffee with friends.

Amazon Prime Big Deal Days has ended but here's a look back at some of the best deals.

Whether you were thinking of refreshing your skincare routine, upgrading your wardrobe staples, or treating yourself to some smart home or wellness finds, Amazon’s Prime Big Deal Days sale was the perfect place to do it.

To help you navigate the madness of this epic sale, I rounded up over 20 Prime Day deals tailored for women like me - over 40, navigating menopause, permanently tired, but still 100% invested in looking and feeling my best.

You would have found hair tools like the best cordless straighteners that won’t fry your ends, stylish-yet-comfy wardrobe staples such as the most comfortable trainers, homeware picks like the Le Creuset Petite Casserole Dish, and wellness gadgets like the best Garmin watch that feel like an investment in your health - without the gimmicks.

Scroll down to see the curated edit of the best Prime Day buys, organised into beauty, fashion, health, and home - with a luxe treat or two sprinkled in. Everything here is something either I or the woman&home team genuinely use, love, or would buy for the women we care about.

Missed out? Bookmark this page and check back for fresh deals during upcoming sales like Black Friday. Some offers are truly too good to miss.

• Amazon devices: Kindles, smart doorbells, tablets & more
• Beauty: Top hair tools, skincare & more
• Bestsellers: Everything everyone else is buying
• Books: Save on books, inc. new releases
• Bras: Top brands inc. Delimira and Curvy Kate
• Fashion: Prime Day fashion picks you'll live in
• Fans: Beat the heat with cooling deals
• Groceries: Stock up and save on essentials
• Haircare: Save on everything from the latest hair tools to top shampoos
• Handbags: Luxury accessories, inc. Radley London
• Health: Supplements, smartwatches & more
• Home: Huge deals from coffee machines to vacuums
• Most Loved: The most popular items in other people's baskets
• Sleep: Deals from sleep masks to pillow sprays
• Skincare: Save on L'Oreal, Lancome and L'Occitane
• Vacuums: Save on brands inc. Shark and Dyson

Beauty & Self Care

Health & Wellness

Home & Lifestyle

Style & Fashion

In a hurry? Here's some inspiration for cracking deals to snap up before they end:

• Niorasen Thermal Socks: was £9.99, now £8.49
• Cadbury Dairy Milk Chocolate Gift Bar: was £14.02 now £9.34
• Finish Dishwasher Tablets: was £16.50, now £11.59
• UGG Women's Tasman Maxi Curly Slipper: was £126.53, now £96.18
• ghd Gold Hair Straightener & Styler: was £189, now £118.74
• Our Place Titanium Always Pan: was £170, now £135

We’re into the final few hours of Amazon’s two-day Big Deal Days sale and yes, the deals are still coming in thick and fast. Whether you’ve had items sitting in your basket for weeks or you’re just here for a bit of impulse shopping (no judgement), now’s the moment to make your move because the sale ends at midnight.

From bestselling beauty deals and fashion favourites to can't-miss health and fitness tech, clever home buys (these rechargeable kitchen lights are a game-changer) and even a few luxury treats you didn’t know you needed, there are still thousands of offers live and plenty of hidden gems in stock.

Whether you're after something useful, fun, or a mix of both, here are the Big Deal Days picks our team has been snapping up while they’re still available and before the clock runs out.

Restocking the medicine cabinet

Supplements and over-the-counter medications might not be the most exciting way to spend money on Prime Day, but these items amount to a serious saving, so our Health Editor, Grace Walsh, has been stocking up while these deals are live.

"I'm restocking my medicine cabinet on Prime Day - from hay fever tablets and magnesium supplements to sports nutrition must-haves, some of the best deals I've spotted have been on these small essentials," she says.

"I scored a discount of £42, which included Allevia Hayfever Tablets (42% off), Nutrition Geeks Magnesium Glycinate (45% off), Vitabiotics Vitamin D (54% off), HIGH5 Caffeine Gels for Running (58% off), and more."

You can genuinely save money on these products, according to Grace, who says they are the underdog of Amazon Prime Day. "There are so many offers on leading brands, so people can customise their savings to suit them, opting for their favourite supplement and medication brands rather than making compromises to save on cost. These savings don't come around very often at all and are not seen on other retailers to the same degree."

Boring garden essentials

"I've only considered buying functional items this Prime Day - things that I'd buy anyway, but also things I have to buy regardless. I bought a tonne (literally) of topsoil for the garden, and some biodegradable coconut scourers. Rock and roll," says Lauren Scott, from our Audience Development team.

"It's a life essential - who doesn't need that much topsoil?! In reality, it's an item I had to buy anyway for the garden, and I shopped around to buy it from somewhere that had good customer reviews, a smooth and speedy delivery process, and good product reviews. It's going to bring long-term joy and help me on my journey to transforming the back garden. It's going to provide a base for new lawns. It's wildlife and pet-friendly."

Fancy skincare - when it's on offer

L'Occitane Immortelle Precious Foam is on Managing Editor Ella Taylor's mind this Prime Day. "It's a gentle cleanser with a lovely foaming action; lightly scented and vegan, plus L'Occitane says it's a natural alternative to retinol," she says.

"I love this gentle yet effective cleansing foam, and have done ever since someone bought me a L'Occitane gift set for Christmas several years ago! It's fairly expensive by my standards, so I like to keep an eye out for discounts and stock up when they appear."

The lip balm we loved but lost

Beauty Editor Fiona McKim's Prime Day must-have is a tube of Raybalm lip balm. "I actually already own one of these - or I should say, owned - but it's somehow escaped my bag (I blame the toddler) and I've realised I can't be without it," she says.

"So, I've chucked another one in my Prime basket, seeing as it's now under a fiver, along with some sticker activity books for an upcoming flight (toddler, again). SPF lip balm sounds a bit 'extra', but actually, everyone should use one. Nowhere on your face is more susceptible to UVB-induced burning or UVA-induced ageing than the thin skin on your lips. Plus, my pout always gets so parched and uncomfy during heatwaves or holidays. It's a very small investment for protected, hydrated, happy lips, plus it's totally clear, apart from a flattering sheen, and smells like summery citrus."

A game-changing beauty buy

"I'm a beauty junkie and have tried a couple of different retinals, but my sister and I are obsessed with Medik8 Crystal Retinal Eye Serum and now have a tradition to stock up on it during all sales," says our Commerce Analyst Samaira Raja.

After using it, Sam says she saw a "massive improvement" in her skin texture, fine lines, and overall glow. "I'll never stop raving about it," she adds. "It's been the single most life-changing product ever!"

A portable projector

"The Portable Mini Projector that I am buying has 28% off," says our Homes Ecommerce Editor, Laura Honey. "I've seen lots of celebrities and influencers talk about these, and I was holding off initially, but it's a deal that's too good to miss. As it's portable, you could lie in bed, point it at the ceiling, and turn your bedroom into a cinema that you sleep in! I'm going to be using mine so that I can get rid of our TV, which feels like a big, black gaping hole in our small flat."

In terms of home comforts, I quite like the thought of this:

• De'Longhi Dedica Style Espresso Machine: was £229.99 now £134.90

The perfect lipstick

"No sign of a Prime Big Deals Day price drop on it yet, but the only lipstick shade I've ever found that suits me is Charlotte Tilbury Matte Revolution Lipstick Pillow Talk - and I top it up like lip balm throughout the day," says our Fashion Ecommerce Editor, Caroline Parr.

"I stocked up when it was £20 in the summer Prime Day sale because it's an iconic product for a reason. It lasts months (even with regular reapplications) and gives the perfect matte finish. I'll be checking the price until the sale ends!"

Or how about this...

• Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick: was £8.99 now £4.27

A must-have kitchen accessory

"I am in desperate need of an upgrade for my dull knives - I'm starting to dread food prep, but this Ninja Foodi StaySharp Knife Block with an integrated sharpener is going to change that," says News Writer, Emily Smith. "It's a fantastic price for a Ninja product - the integrated sharpener means they'll last even longer, and they have a 10-year sharp guarantee."

You might also like...

• Our Place Always Pan 2.0: was £125 now £99

Sienna Miller always seems to be ten steps ahead when it comes to style. Butter yellow is huge news for 2025, but Sienna was already wearing this trend way back in 2019!

She was pictured in New York wearing a colour combination that was a little unexpected: a pale yellow pointelle knit, a bordeaux red leather tote bag by Frame, dark blue wide leg trousers and the white trainers she wears on repeat. They look like a classic pair of Ray-Ban Wayfarer sunglasses to me, too.

You might not be in the market for knitwear during this heatwave, but this pretty little lightweight option is perfect for chilly evenings, and pairs so well with Sienna's go-to Adidas trainers. We've spotted her wearing them on countless occasions over the years, whatever the weather, so if you're trying to decide what your next pair of the best white trainers should be, look no further.

Shop Sienna's look

Sienna made a very stylish appearance at Wimbledon this week, wearing a floral print dress by Alessandra Rich. Together with this look, it's proof that whilst we strongly associate Sienna with boho style, she really can offer inspiration on any trend you want to try, from colours to prints.

This particular ensemble is proof she always accessorises with classic pieces that won't date, so if you're looking to upgrade your trainers collection, her Stan Smiths are the way to go.

For me, houseplants are one of the best ways to make a house feel homely, and I have more than 10 in my current collection – many of them coming from cuttings from friends or from dividing peace lilies.

But I have to admit, keeping up with feeding the plants isn't as easy these days, on top of feeding the cats, kids and (if we're lucky) the adults. So, a couple of years ago, I started using drip feeders to care for my houseplants, and instantly saw an improvement in their health. Hooray. However, I felt bad about all the single-use plastic.

This unhappy accident set me on a quest to find an alternative to plastic drip feeders.

Editor recommendation: Plant Food Spikes

Self-watering Spikes sounded promising for a while, until I realised those are for water, and so would release way too much of the concentrated plant food. Though those would work if you filled them with a ready-mixed solution of water and plant food.

The solution I now wouldn't be without is Plant Food Spikes – a slightly scary-sounding name for solid sticks of plant food that gradually soften and disperse into the soil over two months or so.

I was getting through the single-use plastic feeds every 90 days or so, so last year I thought I'd try unscrewing the tiny nozzle head and refilling the drip feeder from my big bottle of Baby Bio.

I got away with it on two of the feeders, but discovered the next morning that the third, an orchid feeder, had leaked and accidentally given the lovely orchid a massive overdose. I was heartbroken. (Definitely a mistake to avoid when caring for an orchid).

What I love about these is that they're super easy to use, and even kind of fun. My four-year-old boy has insisted on helping me insert them before, and didn't mess it up.

How to use plant food spikes

1. Measure the size of your plant pot, and consult the pack to figure out the right dosage (number of sticks). It's a little annoying that the Miracle-Gro pack gives this in inches, but it does have a ruler built into the back of the packet, so you don't have to convert the numbers into metric if you don't want to. If your pot is between sizes, I'd round down, as it's usually better to underfeed than overfeed (my stick that used to be an orchid can attest to that).
2. Use the plastic spike to make the right number of holes for the sticks, about halfway between the stem of the plant and the rim of the pot. Avoid piercing roots, and spread them out as evenly as you can for your plant.
3. Place the food sticks into these holes
4. Cover the tops of the sticks with soil and even top up the houseplant soil if needed
5. Water plants straight away and then regularly, as usual, with water (no additional feed needed)
6. Check the soil of your plants after a month or two to see if the sticks have all gone. Once they have, replace as needed!

How often do you replace plant food spikes?

I've found that some houseplants are greedier than others. My peace lilies have got through their sticks in about six weeks, while my little tradescantia has had its sticks in for 90 days and counting.

Most plants will need their food sticks replacing more often in the spring and summer than they will in winter. Every 90 days is the average.

It's fun playing plant detective to see who's ready for more, and a nice way to get to know my plants' needs a little better – and I love that I'm not buying any more tiny tubes of plastic in the process.

I suspect that many people’s summer capsule wardrobes have some pretty similar footwear options - sandals, espadrille wedges and white trainers. But Anita Rani has just showcased a very different design for the season and her buckled brogues bring an edginess that works surprisingly well with dresses.

The broadcaster wore them to the premiere of Prehistoric Planet: Discovering Dinosaurs immersive experience on 8th with an A.P.C denim midi dress. Her shoes were a combination of classic brogues, with the perforations on the toe, and Monk Shoes with the straps.

Anita’s brogues had two buckled straps running across the front and fastening at the side. The silver hardware complemented the sheen of the patent leather and helped to transform what could have been a very "workwear" style into something more fun.

Shop Denim Dresses

Complete The Outfit

Although the brogues were still smart for the premiere, Anita Rani cleverly paired them with a denim dress and this changed the feel of them completely. The combination of the quite masculine shoes and the feminine A-line dress made her ensemble edgy yet elegant.

Denim is a casual material too, so this helped to balance out the patent brogues. There are so many denim trends coming and going each season, though darker washes are big for summer 2025. Anita’s dress was in-keeping with this and had a rounded neckline, straps and visible seams shaping the bodice.

Running all the way up the front was a metal zip that can be used to adjust the neckline to suit different preferences. She went for a modest, fully zipped approach and I think this accentuated the sophistication of the silhouette.

This was an outfit all about contrasts - the smart leather shoes, the casual denim fabric and elegant dress design. Although it’s easy to reach for your favourite sandals every time you wear a midi dress, Anita Rani has shown that brogues make a stylish alternative.

The same is true of loafers or any other kind of more "corporate" shoe and denim dresses are a lovely thing to wear instead of jeans when it’s hot. The presenter and podcast host’s dress had an A-line skirt and fitted bodice, with thick straps.

However, if you find many of your go-to summer dresses are shirt-style or button-up, then there are plenty of pieces out there right now with these shapes. For the premiere of Prehistoric Planet: Discovering Dinosaurs Anita finished off her outfit with sunglasses and a delicate necklace.

She regularly reaches for gold jewellery and this had a few gold beads interspersed with jade green ones. This item felt quite beachy and low-key - yet another element of contrast in her look.

Her fluorescent pink, yellow, orange and green nails also brought a pop of colour and it seems she hasn’t changed the design since Glastonbury. We can only hope to see the return of Anita Rani’s black brogue-Monk Shoes and blue denim dress this summer too.

I have a confession: I have a floordrobe. Don't know what that means? A floordrobe is the technical term for a sorry state of affairs whereby your clothes get dumped on your bedroom floor instead of being neatly put away in the wardrobe. Floordrobe, see?

I realised things were getting out of hand when I started avoiding spending time in my bedroom. That's got to change because I love sleep but sometimes suffer from insomnia, thanks to perimenopause. Having tried many different ways to improve sleep over the years, I know that it helps to make my bedroom a calming space where I enjoy spending time. A floordrobe does not help with this.

After all, I sleep on one of the best cooling mattresses, I’ve found the perfect pillow, and I’ve even treated myself to some luxurious bed sheets. So it seems silly to let all that effort go to waste by dumping my clothes on the floor.

So, I’ve decided it’s time to sort myself out. This weekend, I’m finally tackling the mess and restoring some order. To help, I’ve ordered the Klass Home Collection clothes rail from Amazon. It’s a heavy-duty steel rack with double hanging rods and a max weight capacity of 120kg - which should be more than enough to handle my entire floordrobe. So now it's official - I'm finally breaking up with my floordrobe.

Goodbye to my floordrobe

I find it difficult to make time to tidy my bedroom or declutter my home because there's always a task on my to-do list that seems more important, from popping round to visit my mum to calling my son at University for a catch up.

I'm aware that home organisation experts say rushing out to buy more storage is a decluttering mistake to avoid, but I genuinely think this clothes rack might give me the motivation to clear my bedroom floor. I've always dreamed of a walk-in wardrobe that rivals Carrie Bradshaw's, and while that doesn't look likely any time soon, this feels like a stylish step in the right direction. I've got the space for it, and I love the idea of seeing my clothes and favourite shoes and accessories instead of hiding them away out of sight. Or in a pile on the floor.

While browsing clothes rails, I also came across these other bargains that I'm adding to my cart ahead of my big bedroom cleanup this weekend.

Everything I'm adding to my cart ahead of my bedroom cleanup

I originally bought these in Amazon's July Prime Day event. Now, we'll have to wait until October for their next big sale, but I think these nifty extras are great value anyway. That's why I've kept them in here.

I've never been much of a flip-flop fan.

More of a Birkenstock kind of gal, the only ones I had in my wardrobe up until recently were the flimsy Primark ones I'd picked up when getting a pedicure, and the bordering-on-cardboard pair I bought in a panic at the end of a long day in heels. They offered welcome relief from the pain of stilettos, but boy, were they uncomfortable in their own torturous way.

They've just never seemed like the most comfortable sandals to me. Very flat with the harsh toe post part of the sandal rubbing? Not fun. Besides, the weather's hardly ever hot enough for sandals here in the UK... right?

Wrong. I kept seeing adverts for Archies Arch Support Flip-Flops, and my Instagram algorithm clearly knows me better than I know myself. Buoyed by the recent heatwaves and tipped over the edge when I found out that the ever-stylish Jennifer Aniston is a fan, I decided to dip my toe into the world of arch support flip-flops. And guess what? I haven't taken them off since they arrived.

Like a lot of our favourite footwear brands (UGG and Emu, we're looking at you), Archies was born in Australia.

The brainchild of a physio who got tired of "continually warning patients who required support to stop wearing typical flat flip-flops", and was surprised at the lack of supportive options on the market, Daniel Jones quit his job and worked seriously hard to get Archies to where it is today.

With over 92,000 reviews on the site, 6,000 more on Amazon and the ability to call probably the most famous flip-flop wearer of them all, Jennifer Aniston, a fan, it's safe to say they've come a long way.

Jen owns at least three colours - black, olive and coral, plus Kylie Minogue has been pictured wearing a pair too.

If you're thinking that £35 is a lot to spend on the humble flip-flop, allow me to explain why this might just be the most comfortable summer sandal purchase you'll ever make...

Archies Arch Support Flip-Flops: Comfort & Support

Ok, let's get through the technical (but important!) stuff.

Firstly, the arch support. Now this takes a bit of getting used to, in the same way that Birkenstock sandals might, because you're so used to flip-flops being completely flat. These boast up to 2.2cm of orthotic support, which aids body alignment and is helpful for anyone with plantar fasciitis.

Most interesting for me was the tighter-than-normal strap. Doesn't sound super comfy, however, it totally negates the 'claw foot' you often find yourself doing with your toes in regular flip-flops. You can also stretch the strap and/or toe pole by hand to fit your feet.

There's an elevated heel, and the specialised material softens and moulds to the shape of your foot over time, so no wonder these are podiatrist-approved.

Shortly after the arrival of my sandals, I got a handy email from the company to explain how to make sure they're the comfiest they can be. They suggest "wearing them for 20 minutes at a time to ease in." Ever the rebel, I paid no attention to this advice and wore them for about 8 hours straight. Not even a hint of pain, just pure bliss.

In terms of fit, I'm a half size and ordered up, as the website suggests, and they're perfect. They're also "virtually indestructible" and ludicrously lightweight. Sounds too good to be true, right? I can confirm they're that good.

Archies Arch Support Flip-Flops: Style

The beauty of these is just how simple they are. I got them in black so I could wear them with everything, but I'm already deciding on which other colours I should order.

Thanks to their pared-back appeal and wearability, flip-flops are a huge trend this summer, but do they really ever go out of style? I don't think so.

I've worn mine with my best summer dresses, as well as with jeans and linen trousers. And of course, now I keep them in my handbag whenever I'm wearing heels!

Shop more colours

Archies Arch Support Flip-Flops: Verdict

Who knew there was so much to say about flip-flops? Archies has reinvented a true classic, and I'm seriously impressed. These are absolutely worth the money, and I guarantee you'll be back for more colours.

Every July we see so many gorgeous all-white outfits both on and off the court at Wimbledon and yet I never get tired of picking out my favourites. Even if you’re not going to watch the tennis, white summer dresses are an easy-to-wear option for so many occasions.

So it’s good to get some inspiration for new ways to wear them - and Leona Lewis has just delivered it. The X Factor 2006 winner attended Wimbledon on Day 11 in the Citron Midi Dress by Maksu, holding a green Cult Gaia clutch bag.

This dress is something a little different to the flowy silhouettes that are so popular for the season and has a lot of structure to it. The short sleeves are voluminous and the bodice is streamlined, accentuating your waist.

Recreate Leona's Wimbledon Outfit

It’s always a pleasant surprise to discover pockets in a dress and Leona’s Maksu frock has one on either side. The neckline is a graceful V-shape and the singer cleverly adjusted it to suit her style by folding the material back on itself, creating lapels.

This meant that more of her decolletage was visible and this in turn showcased her dainty golden necklace. Darts in the flared midi-length skirt gave it extra shaping and it’s no wonder that Maksu suggests that this could be worn as a wedding gown.

However, it’s not overtly bridal and was a stunning item to wear to Wimbledon, which famously is the only Grand Slam tournament in the world to have an all-white dress code for the players. The main reason I think it’s worth adding a white dress like Leona’s to your summer capsule wardrobe is because they go with everything.

Shop Green Bags

They’re the clothing equivalent of a blank canvas - and a very elegant one at that. With a white dress you can be as bold as you want to be with accessories and know they’ll always work.

White dresses are also rarely massively formal, aside from wedding dresses, so you can make them as casual or elevated as you like depending on what shoes and bag you choose. Leona Lewis paired her white midi dress with matching white court shoes and her green bag.

Cult Gaia are known for their clutches and the singer had the bubble-shaped style with her for the day. Crafted from durable acrylic, this bag was roomy enough for her Wimbledon essentials without being too bulky.

The marbled mint-green tone of the bag was a gentle contrast against her white dress and stood out with its fun design. Accessories are a great way to add some extra personality and flair into a classic ensemble. Leona Lewis placed her bag on her lap once she’d taken her seat and carried it by one end before this.

Handbags with straps allow you to be completely hands-free which I find more convenient, though there are plenty of top handle and crossbody bags around right now that could pair with a white dress instead of a clutch. Leona Lewis’s Wimbledon fashion goes beyond inspiring our occasionwear outfits, as a white dress and green bag combination like this is lovely for everyday life too.

I spend a large part of my life wearing gym clothes. Not only does wearing workout gear motivate me to move every day, but it so happens that my collection has some of the most comfortable and flattering pieces in my entire wardrobe.

In my extensive collection are all manner of named brands, and I never thought I'd say this, but some of my favourite items are from Amazon.

Granted, it's not the first place you might think to look for activewear, and it's important to choose your pieces wisely, but I have been pleasantly surprised at the quality, comfort and style you can find on Amazon - and often at a more affordable price. There are some real gems to be found, and the ones I have in my wardrobe I regularly pick over the more luxury items I bought from Sweaty Betty or in the Lululemon sale.

I've been shopping on Amazon for the best workout leggings, tops, walking shoes, and more over the last few years, and I have a few favourites I recommend to anyone who asks.

My favourite workout clothes on Amazon

How to buy workout clothes on Amazon

Amazon has so many excellent activewear brands, but it's important to stay vigilant and do your research before buying. Grace Walsh, woman&home's digital health editor, who reviews activewear year-round, agrees. "Workout clothes on Amazon have come on leaps and bounds in the last few years, with established brands like Adidas sold alongside smaller labels, making it a top competitor among the most affordable sportswear brands," she says.

"But, I'd still suggest doing your research. Look at each retailer individually rather than just the products, as there are thousands to choose from. What do the reviews say about quality, shipping, and durability? If it all checks out, I'd say go ahead and buy. If not, look elsewhere," she says.

"I'd also suggest you avoid trying to buy so-called 'dupes'. Clothing attempting to look like activewear from big-name brands (think Nike's trainers and Lululemon's leggings) is very unlikely to match up to the original brand's quality or design. So, if you're looking for something in particular, head to that brand's sale page, rather than trying to get the same design for less on Amazon to avoid disappointment."

When making a purchase, be sure to check the size guide for each retailer, as you're unlikely to be the same size everywhere.

I've got my eye on...

Amazon activewear has some products too hard to miss, particularly with the sale going on. Here are the pieces I'm looking to add to my gym kit collection this week.

The Amazon Prime Day sale ends at mightnight on Friday 11 July.

The Princess of Wales made an special visit to Colchester Hospital in south-east England at the start of July, where she met with cancer patients and spoke frankly about her own experiences, both during and post-treatment.

Offering rare insight into the "roller coaster" she had experienced, and the difficulty in "finding a new normal", the Princess’s words were deeply personal and moving. So was her choice of jewelry, as the senior royal opted for a simple gold necklace with a garnet set into the pendant.

The flash of red was understated enough not to detract attention from her work, though the garnet stone could be seen as very meaningful indeed. As one of the oldest known gemstones, it's thought to have several different spiritual and symbolic connotations.

The name garnet comes from the Latin word "granatum", which means grains or seeds. It also makes up part of the botanical name for pomegranates (Punica granatum), and this makes sense as the deep red seeds of this fruit do resemble garnets.

Jewelry experts Brilliant Earth claim that, "Throughout history, garnet has symbolized light, faith, and truth and has been used in various cultures for its perceived protective and healing properties."

Meanwhile, With Clarity describes garnets as being regarded a "stone that keeps wearers safe". They suggest that garnets are worn "to protect and balance the wearers by helping to feel grounded. In addition to protection, it's said that this stunning gemstone brings love, luck, health, loyalty, and friendship to people who wear it".

Shop garnet necklaces

As well as the light, healing and optimistic associations, garnets are also the traditional January birthstone – which is, after all, Kate's birth month. Royal Editor at woman&home, Emma Shacklock, believes that this was likely a factor in the Princess's choice of necklace.

"Whilst we'll never know exactly why she decided to wear it for this specific engagement, it's always possible that the symbolism surrounding garnets played a part. However, I do think that Kate probably picked up this piece in the first place (or was gifted it) because it featured her birthstone.

"The royals love personalised jewelry, and she is no exception."

The Princess of Wales famously wore this garnet necklace in a joyful video shared on social media for the late Queen Elizabeth's Platinum Jubilee. In it, she was baking cakes for the celebrations with Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis, and having fun making memories with them.

She's had the garnet necklace in her collection for at least a few years and it's a simple enough piece that she's happy to wear it at home as well as for official duties.

The Princess of Wales has also been spotted wearing different garnet items on a number of occasions before, including during a visit to Pontypridd in Wales in early 2025. For engagements there, she had a pair of red drop earrings in.

She also has a rose gold ring, rumored to have been given to her by Prince William very early on in their relationship. Often worn on her right middle finger, the ring features three alternating garnets and two pearls, which are Prince William's birthstone.

I travel at any opportunity - anywhere. I love jumping in the car and heading to the coast for the weekend just as much as I do flying off to exotic destinations – and do both as much as my time and finances will allow.

I holiday regularly in the UK with my young family, and am also very lucky to travel abroad solo for work sometimes too. Both types of trip require careful consideration when deciding what to take, but over the years I have perfected the art of packing, and now have a collection of travel essentials I won't leave without - no matter where I'm going.

They are probably the items you'd be least excited to pack, but trust me when I say these un-sexy treasures work wonders for making a holiday stress-free and all the more enjoyable.

12 essential travel items

It goes without saying this isn't an exhaustive packing list, but the items I genuinely find help take the stress out of travelling. An honourable mention also goes to Apple AirTags (currently with 29% off in the sale) and this cheap but brilliant AirTag holder for my keys (which I somehow always seem to lose on holiday). These subtle little devices are a life-saver if you are a little forgetful or want to keep track of your valuables - my suitcase is never without one before going in the hold!

I also need to shout out Ancient + Brave's True Collagen travel sachets, which are such an easy (and light) way to ensure I get my daily dose while away from home.

Deciding what to wear to Wimbledon takes a bit of time and many of the outfits we see from royals and celebrities at the tennis tend to involve summer dresses. This is no bad thing, but it does mean that as soon as Jo Whiley stepped out in a co-ord, she instantly caught our attention.

This set was by Serena Bute and although it’s currently out of stock, rest assured the brand is about to re-stock both items. They’ve already started a sign-up so customers can be notified when it drops and it’s worth doing so you don’t miss out.

Jo was lent these stunning pieces for Wimbledon, which she attended on Day 10 as a guest of Pimm’s, but she also wore the joggers during Glastonbury. I’m not surprised either as they make a big statement and yet look so comfy.

Shop Jo Whiley's Wimbledon Outfit

The Serena Joggers have a drawstring both at the elasticated waist and at the bottom hems of the trouser legs. This means you can adjust them to make them gathered for a classic jogger-style or keep them straight-leg.

The BBC Radio 2 presenter went for the looser option in the violet-blue colourway. This design has two shocking pink stripes running down the side of either leg, though if you choose the red joggers the stripes are violet and the pink joggers have red stripes.

So often we think of joggers as something akin to workout leggings or loungewear, but Jo has shown that this doesn’t have to be the case. Her joggers are essentially straight-leg trousers and the crinkled satin material gives them a smarter edge.

Shop More Smart Joggers

The vibrant violet-blue and pink shades also take these joggers to a more fashion-forward place which is suitable for day trips and events. Jo Whiley wore the matching blue-violet striped shirt loosely tucked in on one side.

Impeccable tucking-in would have been a bit too polished and she kept her outfit cool and contemporary. It helped that the shirt is oversized and the straight hem and menswear fastenings are a world away from the floaty floral dresses we see a lot of at Wimbledon.

When Jo wore these joggers at Glastonbury she was also styled by the brilliant Rachel Falconi and had on the shocking pink version of the shirt. If you prefer something a bit more streamlined on your top half then you could easily go for a fitted T-shirt or cami top with joggers instead.

The presenter finished off her ensemble at the tennis with chunky-soled white trainers. Their sportiness accentuated the relaxed feel Jo was going for and since joggers are naturally sporty themselves, this worked well.

I’d recommend taking a similar approach when you’re looking to style joggers day-to-day as although you can totally wear them with heels, it’s quite a contrast. Slip-on sandals or trainers complement joggers well, with the added benefit of being supportive if you’re going to be out and about for a long period of time.

Here at woman&home, we have 16 staff members and a family of trusted freelancers, all experts in their field, who spend every day crafting tailored news, reviews, features and advice on everything from home decor to health – not to mention curated shopping advice.

So when an event like the Amazon Prime Day deals rolls around, we're confident that we know a thing or two about spotting the products worth investing in (and which to avoid).

However, we're not above listening to advice from other experts too, and Money Saving Expert Martin Lewis is of course a renowned expert in this field. So when we spotted his Amazon Prime Day 2025 deals analysis, we were all ears – and, not ones to gatekeep, we wanted to share our favourite tips with you, including a way to score an extra 20% off some products.

1. Track price history

Perhaps our favourite tip of Martin's is one we've also shared before, notably in our advice for Black Friday vs Cyber Monday. "As Amazon prices go up and down regularly, use a price tracker to see if it's actually a deal at all," advises Martin.

Camel Camel Camel is the first tool we always fire up when we spot a deal on Amazon. It shows the price history of an item so you can discover whether it's the cheapest it's ever been (sometimes), the cheapest it's been for a while (often) or not such a great deal after all (eg if the price has been fairly static for months, then inflated for a few weeks before the 'deal' appears – a practice that savvy shoppers have cottoned onto).

Luckily for you, when we find the holy grail of the lowest-ever price on a product we love, we never keep it to ourselves. Health editor Grace Walsh has already shared the lowest-ever price on an Oura Ring and a rare deal on an Apple Watch 10, and is keeping her eyes peeled for more.

We particularly like the way Martin has shown the cheapest-ever deals in a grid format, so here are some of our favourites:

2. Save an extra 20% at Amazon Resale

Our next favourite tip-off from Martin was that Prime members can get an extra 20% off Amazon Resale items until Friday 11 July, when the Prime Day sale ends. Previously called Amazon Warehouse, these are the products that other shoppers have returned, Amazon has thoroughly inspected and repaired if needed, and listed for resale.

It is a little trickier to navigate, but we've found the excellent deal below on a popular item, that shows it's worth the hunt.

3. Consider other retailers

"Amazon's not always cheapest for every item, even in a sale – so do your research before buying," says Martin. He recommends using 'shopbot' tools such as Google Shopping to compare prices at different retailers, as others may be price matching or even offering better savings during peak sales events.

Indeed, this is something we've seen during this Amazon Prime Day event. For example, there are plenty of Elemis skincare deals at Amazon, but some products are actually cheaper at Sephora, Look Fantastic and Boots, as we've been quick to share with you.

At woman&home we're lucky enough to have our own shopboot tool, called Hawk, which scours the web for deals on hundreds of products each day. We've included links to today's best prices on some bestsellers, below.

4. Get credit (for some Amazon members)

Martin's posts reveal a few ways that some Amazon members may be able to save a little more, or get claim voucher credits to their accounts.

"If you have an Amazon account, you may be able to get £5 off a £15 spend at Amazon," writes Martin. Check this Amazon link when logged in to see if you're eligible for the £5 credit into your account.

"Out of the 25 Amazon accounts we checked, six (24%) were eligible, so most people likely can't get this, but it's worth a quick check if you've got a planned purchase at Amazon coming up," he explains.

If you're not eligible for the £5, you may be eligible for £3 off a £10 spend – though this discount is a little more niche, as it's only for some people who live near an Amazon pickup location, but who haven't used one yet.

Visit this Amazon link to check if you're eligible. "It's best to go ASAP as it's only available until 10,000 have been claimed (or 31 December 2025 if that's later)," warns Martin. If it works, enter the code 3OFFPICKUP in the 'Your gift certificates and coupons' section at the checkout.

As a beauty editor, testing dozens of products a month comes with the territory. But when it comes to going on holiday, I like to stick with my tried and tested favourites that I know are going to perform.

So when I caught up on woman&home's top Prime Day deals for 2025 and realised that a bunch of my favourites were boasting amazing savings in the Amazon Prime Day sale, I decided it was time to stock up.

From one of our beauty team's best fake tans that won me over years ago, to a reliable but more affordable version of one of the best facial sunscreens on the market, these are the three products that I always rebuy for summer.

The best summer beauty deals in the Amazon Prime Day sale

Three of my top beauty picks for summer, I couldn't believe these had such good price savings in the Amazon Prime Day sale...

Like so many people I often find myself steering well clear of strapless dresses and tops in the summer, even though they’re perfect to wear in the heat. These styles can be daunting, especially when you’re wondering what to style them with. But Queen Letizia has just convinced me to pick up one of the best strapless bras and give bandeau dresses a try.

We rarely see members of the British Royal Family going fully strapless, though the Princess of Wales does occasionally step out in one-shoulder or bardot designs with a panel running across the neckline. Queen Letizia’s black bandeau Sybilla dress was incredibly fashion-forward.

She wore it to the ABC Journalism Awards in Madrid and as a former journalist herself, Her Majesty went all-out with the glamour. Her dress had a straight neckline and fell to midi length.

Shop Strapless Dresses Like Letizia's

The bodice was smoothly fitted and the skirt was A-line, making the whole design sleeker and chicer than a ballgown would have been. It was plain black and otherwise very simple and this is a good thing to look out for when you’re choosing a bandeau dress.

Caroline Parr, Digital Fashion Ecommerce Editor at woman&home believes that when it comes to wearing strapless pieces, the "foundations" are what matter most.

"I think there's something about strapless dresses that can feel quite bare, but when you embrace them, you realise they're not so scary," she says, revealing that there is a middle-ground worth trying too.

What To Wear With Strapless Dresses

Caroline adds, "The Princess of Wales has, on several occasions, opted for an off-shoulder neckline, which is a great compromise for anyone not feeling ready to ditch the straps completely. Either way, foundations are key: find the best strapless bra for you, and wear your hair up or tucked back like Letizia to show off the neckline in all its glory. A simple necklace will always elevate it further, too."

This advice is something I’ll be taking note of and the Queen of Spain did indeed follow these steps with her outfit for the awards. She typically chooses kitten heels nowadays with all her tailored suits and summer dresses, and she re-wore her black patent slingbacks from Magrit.

Her black flapover clutch bag was also by Magrit and she brought some contrast with her statement pearl necklace. This was quite the piece and instantly drew the eye to her decolletage and the neckline of her dress, but in an elegant way.

Although the pearls were large the necklace was ultimately a simple design like Caroline mentioned. The Queen wore her brunette hair loose and pushed back over her shoulders to showcase the gorgeous strapless dress in all its glory.

You don’t have to go quite as formal as she did to recreate a similar look for summer. So many black bandeau dresses out there right now have more of a casual, sundress feel with comfortable shirring on the bodice. These can be styled with slip-on sandals, a raffia bag and a hat on holiday or when the weather is scorching at home.

A pastel-toned strapless design would make a great wedding guest dress with higher heels or espadrilles. Neutral hues are the most versatile and an easier way into wearing a bolder dress style, though, as they will go with any accessories.

Most people who know me would tell you that I've always been inseparable from platform shoes in any shape, type, or form – and for the most part, they'd be right. From chunky boots to platform trainers, I've built a wardrobe around shoe styles that give me a little bit of extra height.

In the winter months, I lean on thick-soled loafers or lace-up boots. But come summer, I'm on the hunt for comfortable sandals with extra height, which have the same leg-elongating effect as my cold-weather styles. The seasonal shift always sends me on a mission to find sandals that tick all the right boxes: platformed, easy to style, and comfortable enough to wear all day, and I may have found the perfect pair – FitFlop leather flatform sandal.

With their wearable height and comfort-focused design, these sandals are the warm-weather equivalent I've been searching for. FitFlop's wedge sandals feature an anatomically contoured footbed that makes walking in them springy and easy. Plus, the sleek black colour and toe-post design feel high-end and luxurious without the designer price tag.

FitFlop Leather Flatform Sandals Review

Shop FitFlop Leather Flatform Toe-Post Sandals

FitFlop Leather Flatform Sandals: Comfort & Support

The cushioned sole was the first thing I noticed when I wore the FitFlop Leather Flatform Sandals on a particularly long office commute, which included a fair amount of walking, a crowded train, and a few too many stairs. I expected to regret the height halfway through my commute, but honestly, I didn't think about it once.

What surprised me was how cushioned and springy the sole felt, especially on the way down stairs. Usually, with platform sandals, I find myself walking a bit more carefully, but these have a nice bounce that makes them feel much more forgiving and enjoyable to wear day-to-day.

I did notice the feel of the leather upper when I first wore them, which I put down to the fact that they are new, but that settled down within a few hours of wear. By lunchtime, they'd already moulded to my feet. They gave me the height I wanted without the usual foot fatigue that comes with heels or larger wedges.

FitFlop Leather Flatform Sandals: Style

There's something so reliable about black platform sandals in terms of styling because they work with practically anything in your wardrobe, from evening dresses to laid-back denim in the daytime. I've already worn mine with a lime green dress I snagged in the Zara sale years back, alongside some of my favourite barrel leg jeans and a button-up shirt whilst working from home.

What stands out about these is that the platform isn't too chunky, offering just the right amount of height, which feels put-together without being over the top. Subtle enough to be worn in the daytime but elevated enough to style with smart pieces like tailoring or dresses for dinners out or formal work events.

The design features a thick, wide leather strap that feels more luxurious than a classic flip-flop, and this style reminds me of the trending The Row Ginza Flip-Flops. They offer the same chunky thong shape with a thick sole and a substantial strap. I always love finding a great designer lookalike.

FitFlop Leather Flatform Sandals: Cleaning & Care

Cleaning and caring for these FitFlop wedges is refreshingly low-effort, one of the perks of their simple design. The strap is made from smooth leather, which means it can be easily wiped with a damp cloth if it gets dusty or muddy.

The sole is a durable rubber that's equally low-maintenance, so there is no need for delicate handling. I've already given mine a quick once-over after wearing them with a damp cloth, and they look good as new in seconds.

If they do get grubby, you could always use a brush to scrub the rubber soles and run them under the tap afterwards. And as for the leather strap, you might want to consider buying a leather cleaner like this one to wipe it down.

FitFlop Leather Flatform Sandals: Verdict

If you're after some summer sandals that blend height, comfort, and understated style, the FitFlop Flatform Wedges tick all the right boxes. They manage to feel both on-trend and timeless, with a silhouette that nods to designer styles whilst being made with comfort and practicality in mind.

They will also slot seamlessly into your summer capsule wardrobe, complementing almost every staple, from laid-back denim to midi-dresses. They've already earned a spot in regular shoe rotation, and I can see them staying there well into next summer, too.

Shop More FitFlop Sandals

Not only do FitFlop have some of the best sandals, but they also have a fantastic reputation for the most comfortable trainers, loafers, and even the best slippers! I've reviewed some of their shearling slippers, and they've become a real staple at home. FitFlop aims to engineer footwear with comfortable and practical designs, so they are the perfect brand to browse if you need functional shoes that won't hurt your feet.

Are you tired of having a loft space that's difficult to navigate? If your home is anything like mine, you've probably been overwhelmed by duvets, extra bedding and winter clothes for years. But these bags are here to change that.

From the four-box decluttering method to the one-touch tidying rule, you may have tried everything to create extra space in your home. The truth is, sometimes no matter how well you declutter your home, the stuff soon builds back up.

That's why I decided to stop getting rid of what I had and simply compact it instead. And what better way to minimise your stuff than vacuum seal bags?

Vacuum sealed bags have streamlined my storage space

Whether or not you've tried all the best decluttering methods, it's hard to keep household items to a minimum. Over the years, I've slowly watched our loft, shed, and under-stairs storage get fuller and fuller.

That's when I discovered the storage hack that is vacuum seal bags.

They're perfect for soft furnishings, spare duvets and any winter jumpers that need to be put away during summer. Even if you're looking to declutter your shed, these bags are going to make the job so much easier.

I was regularly cleaning my outdoor cushions due to mould build-up over winter, so I started storing them in these bags, and the problem was solved.

The double zip seal means no mould spores or moisture reaches the cushions or blankets I store in the shed. It also means a lot less space is taken up, too.

The best part? They're incredibly cheap, but hard-wearing and reusable at the same time.

So, if, like me, you're always in need of under-stairs storage ideas to maximise your space or simply own too many bedding sets, these budget vacuum bags are what you've been looking for.

No more towering piles of stuff in your loft to wade through when looking for the suitcases, just easily moved vacuum packed bags.

Shop alternative storage solutions

Even if you're struggling with wardrobe organising techniques, the smaller versions of the bags that come in this set are perfect for compacting clothes you don't reach for regularly.

When you think of Kate Middleton's shoe collection, we bet your mind doesn't immediately jump to Amazon.

That's why we really feel the need to shout about the fact that the white trainers that the Princess of Wales has famously worn over and over again are up for grabs on the site now. Not to mention the fact that there's a pretty generous reduction on the price tag today.

Princess Catherine, more often than not, braves a pair of stilettos, wedges, or heeled boots for official royal outings - but for when the need for something a little comfier calls, her Superga Cotu Classics are usually what she goes for.

Shop Kate's Supergas

She's paired them with everything from pretty pink slim-fit trousers for an official visit to London's Battersea Park in 2020, to high-waisted white denim shorts and a classic Breton knit for a day with Great Britain's SailGP Team in 2022.

Catherine even shared a glimpse of her sporting her fresh white Supergas with a pair of off-duty skinny jeans and the beautifully intricate Mabel Broderie blouse by M.I.H Jeans, as she and Prince William posed for their 12th anniversary photo.

The Cotu Classics are a best-selling cult classic amongst lovers of comfy, simplistic warm weather trainers, so it's little wonder that the versatile and subtly stylish pair are a staple in Kate's summer wardrobe.

Molly Smith, woman&home's Digital Fashion Writer, has a pair of the pumps herself that she relies on for everyday wear, travel, and beyond - and says it's obvious why they've been given the Kate Middleton stamp of approval.

"Although the Superga trainers don't have a plush padded insole like other trainers might, they still offer enough support for daily wear - and most importantly, they didn't give me any blisters," Molly says.

"I recently wore them on a long day of travelling from London to Ibiza, and these were the perfect choice - comfortable enough to see me through a train ride, airport security, and flying overseas, and of course I wore them whilst exploring the island too and had no issues with comfort."

She adds, "They are supportive without being chunky, and fitted but not too tight because of the canvas material, making them my new go-to staple. They are ideal for office wear, city commuting, and daytime outings too."

Core sliders are simple plastic discs that go under your feet or hands. They work against gravity to add resistance to your movements, and they can be a game-changer in floor Pilates workouts.

I understand that the expertise and equipment needed to conduct a Reformer Pilates class mean the session has to be more expensive than a regular class, but when prices rose at my local studio, I had to rein in my spending. That's when I discovered this accessory and switched to doing my strength training and a Pilates workout at home.

These core sliders can be used on their own or in combination with other workout equipment to build full-body strength away from the gym. Here's how I do it...

What are core sliders?

Core sliders are small, plastic plate-shaped discs that you step on or rest your hands on during a workout. As you push your arms and legs away from the centre of your body, you work against gravity and your body weight to stay balanced. That's where the benefit comes from.

They can also be helpful as a noise-limiting tool. In workouts that involve mountain climbers, for example, instead of pounding the floor, you can move your legs back and forward on the discs.

For progressive overload (making exercises harder over time to continue seeing progress), they can be a game-changer. Take the plank, for instance. Once you know how to do a plank, you can use core sliders to inch out one arm at a time and challenge your balance and core muscles, boosting your strength without having to add extra minutes to your workout.

Core sliders workout

To make the most of your core sliders, I asked Charlotte Dunnell, a certified personal trainer and strength training specialist, to recommend her favourite four exercises. These target the entire body and are a great way to reap the benefits of Reformer Pilates at home.

1. Plank with lateral slides

• Position a slider under each foot.
• Start in a high plank position, with your hands positioned directly under your shoulders and your legs fully extended, so your body forms a straight line.
• Your feet should be just a few inches apart, says Dunnell.
• Keeping your upper body still, slide one foot out to the side and then return it to the starting position.
• Repeat on the other leg and keep alternating.

Expert tip: "Make sure to keep your hips square to the floor," says Dunnell. "Try not to let your torso rotate at all."

3. Tempo mountain climbers

• Start in a high plank position with a slider under each foot.
• Bring one knee towards your chest and pause for one second while the knee is tucked.
• Extend the leg back to the starting position and then repeat on the opposite leg. 

Expert tip: "Make sure to keep your back flat throughout the movement," says Dunnell, as if you were doing a high plank.

3. Slider body saw

• Start in a low plank position, with your forearms on the ground running parallel to each other.
• Your elbows should be directly under your shoulders.
• Position a slider under each foot.
• Keeping your forearms still on the floor, slide the rest of your body back a few inches and then reverse the movement, bringing yourself back to the starting position.

Expert tip: Remember to keep your body in a straight line from head to toe, with your core engaged throughout.

While this might look like a simple exercise, it's one of the better core exercises to do at home for building strength in the abs, obliques, hamstrings, and lower back. It can also help improve rotational mobility in the spine, which is beneficial for people like me who spend their days sitting down.

4. Lunge variations with sliders

• As an alternative to doing lunges on the carriage of a Reformer or walking lunges in the gym, stand upright with your back foot on a slider.
• Slowly, with your core engaged, push back with the back leg.
• Staying controlled, push back and complete a lunge, stopping when your front knee comes 90 degrees to the ground.
• Push up from the ball of your front foot, pulling your back leg in, and returning to the starting position.

Expert tip: To make these harder still, grab a pair of dumbbells or a set of kettlebells. Adding weight will force you to work even harder to stay balanced and controlled.

Are core sliders effective?

Yes, absolutely. "Sliders can be a useful piece of equipment to have on hand to add variety to your workouts, to progress bodyweight exercises and to help challenge stability," says Dunnell.

"The sliders add more instability to the exercises, thereby forcing your deep core muscles (i.e. the transverse abdominis and obliques) to engage more than they would in a standard plank," she says.

Using sliders forces you to slow the movements down as well, so you don't lose your balance. "This has the dual benefit of engaging the supporting muscles to a greater degree, to help control the inward and outward phase of the movement, and increasing time under tension," she says. "Time under tension is a key driver for muscle growth."

For me, core sliders are an essential in any bodyweight workout when I want to challenge myself or focus on improving my balance. They are also small, easy to store or pack in a suitcase for holidays, and cheap to buy. Win.

However, you can also use small towels folded up for the same purpose and skip the shopping process, the PT says. "I often incorporate exercises using two small towels in place of sliders for my clients who are travelling or doing home workouts with limited equipment," she says.

Do core sliders work on carpet?

Core sliders work best on carpet, I would say. As the discs are often made of plastic, they glide seamlessly across most types of carpet and rug, whereas towels get stuck with friction.

They also work on grass and rougher tile flooring, making them a truly versatile workout tool.

When waistcoats first began to surge in popularity I wasn’t at all sure how to wear this trend, but it’s become one of my favourites. Unlike blazers which can be a bit too thick to wear in the heat, a waistcoat can often be much lighter and the sleeveless design means they can be worn as a top in their own right.

This is the most fashionable way to style them right now, but I’m also fond of layering mine over T-shirts for more coverage. For a smart-casual outfit, ditch the matching trousers and go for something cooler and more casual - like Helen Skelton just did.

The Countryfile star attended Day 1 of the Great Yorkshire Show in Harrogate wearing a fitted waistcoat with blue bootcut jeans. Throw in a fedora hat and ankle boots and she delivered a decidedly country-inspired look.

Shop Waistcoats

Complete The Look

Country styling looks a little different on either side of the pond, with it generally being more tweed-focused, practical and quite formal in the UK. The US’s take on ‘country’ outfits are more relaxed, with plenty of denim and cowboy boots.

Somehow, Helen Skelton’s ensemble for the Great Yorkshire Show ticked boxes for both of these versions of country style. Her waistcoat had a tweed-esque finish and was tailored to perfection, with black piping along the top of the pockets.

It was a mottled grey-taupe colour and although you can get waistcoats with a rounded high neckline, this one was a classic V-neck with buttons up the front. Caroline Parr, Digital Fashion Ecommerce Editor at woman&home, believes Helen’s way of wearing it is a good one to try.

"Figuring out how to style a waistcoat can feel tricky at first, but you won't go too far wrong teaming it with denim in any cut," she says. "A nipped-in, fitted silhouette looks great with skinny jeans like Helen's, but you could try playing with proportions by embracing baggy or barrel leg jeans too."

Helen Skelton wore comfortable boot cut jeans in a versatile mid-blue wash. These kinds of tones naturally feel a bit more elevated than light wash, but not as formal as indigo denim.

This complemented the tailored waistcoat well and the streamlined silhouette of bootcut jeans tied in with it too. I personally love wearing my fitted waistcoats with wide-leg jeans for a touch of contrast.

As Caroline explains, the nipped-in style of tailored vests works pretty universally with different jeans styles, making an outfit like Helen’s an easy way to embrace the waistcoat trend. The broadcaster looked confident and chic as she met Longhorn exhibitor David Blockley as part of the breed’s National Championship.

Pictures from the day also show her being enthusiastically greeted by a border collie. Throughout it all she was wearing a tan fedora hat which finished off her look. This shape of hat is often seen with very British country outfits whilst the jeans and boots felt more Western-inspired.

The combination was lovely and Helen Skelton, who lives in Cumbria, seemed to thoroughly enjoy her day trip to Harrogate.

Jennifer Lopez is known for favoring stilettos, but when she's not performing, she opts for a surprising alternative. The white platform sneaker. Captured wearing this style in all seasons and all climates, J-Lo's shoe choice is one to consider investing in.

The warmer season calls for a reassessment of trusted closet staples, from occasion wear to everyday footwear; however, this year I've vowed to prioritize versatility to ensure I get the most wear out of everything I own. I've recently been on the hunt for a pair of the best white sneakers to see me through this summer and beyond, and I think I might have found the perfect pair – in other words, J-Lo has led me to them.

Jennifer Lopez has been spotted wearing the K-Swiss platform sneakers, all year round, in the summer months paired with light layers, before switching them up with baggy denim and knitwear in the fall and winter, making these shoes worth the investment.

Spotted last summer in Los Angeles (far left image), Jennifer Lopez teams her K-Swiss platform sneakers with beige wide-leg pants and a fitted white tank top. To finish the look, she wore trending aviator sunglasses and thick gold hoops. What's great about platform sneakers is that they are perfect for pairing with wide-leg silhouettes. In other seasons, J-Lo sticks to baggy, looser styles, including a pair of wide-leg Gucci pleated jeans (middle).

The platform sole instantly gives you more height and elongates your legs, which is another reason I've landed on the platform style. Don't get me wrong, heels and wedge sandals will still be a part of my daily footwear rotation, but platform sneakers truly offer the best of both worlds – height and comfort.

Shop Platform Sneakers

White platform sneakers are undeniably laid-back, but there's something about them that feels more elevated than your average white sports shoe. The platform sole offers a subtle amount of height that can take your outfit from relaxed to smart-casual in an instant. We've seen plenty of celebrities in this style of shoe; however, the fact that J-Lo swaps them out for her usual vibrant stilettos regularly speaks volumes.

If you're looking to boost your height and your style, then a pair of platform sneakers should be on your summer shopping list.

The Royal Family’s outfits always attract a lot of attention, and whilst many people might have been admiring Queen Camilla’s animal-printed dress at Wimbledon I was focused on her footwear. You can completely transform an outfit with your choice of shoes and it’s easy to forget how much of an impact they have.

Your best white trainers can instantly make smart summer dresses look more low-key thanks to their sportiness and heels elevate jeans and a T-shirt. Queen Camilla for court shoes on Day 10 of Wimbledon and we’ve seen this pair before.

Her Majesty champions a lot of British clothing brands but she’s also partial to Chanel accessories. These luxurious heels with their black toe cap are a firm favourite of hers.

Shop Toe Cap Shoes

Chanel is known for their contrasting toe-cap ballet flats and Queen Camilla’s Wimbledon shoes are a similar shape, just with a block heel. They’re made from suede and satin and looked effortlessly elegant with her white patterned shirt dress.

The Queen had already had a busy day before arriving courtside at SW19 as she and King Charles attended a reception at Buckingham Palace to celebrate 40 years of artists accompanying royal overseas visits. The couple also bid an official farewell to French President Emmanuel Macron and his wife Brigitte at Windsor Castle.

Interestingly, Queen Camilla previously wore these dreamy Chanel court shoes when she and the King undertook their State Visit to France in 2023. Perhaps her choice of French-designed shoes was a nod to their guests, but either way she clearly finds them very comfortable.

They saw her right through the morning to her arrival at Wimbledon to enjoy an afternoon of tennis. Block heeled court shoes like these are worth adding to your summer capsule wardrobe for those times when you want extra elevation without reaching for stilettos.

The chunky shape means you have more stability and if you really want to follow in Her Majesty’s stylish footsteps, go for some court shoes with a toe cap. This design remains popular regardless of seasonal trends and you can choose colours that you’ll get the most wear out of.

Queen Camilla’s Chanel shoes are beige and black, which is a big contrast. Yet because these are both neutral colours, the final effect is still quite understated.

At Wimbledon, the senior royal wore them with a white printed dress and in France her outfit was also white. However, we’ve also seen her pair them with a pale green dress at Ascot last month and with a black and white polka dot dress for the Big Lunch at Eden Dock.

The two-colour pumps looked great with each of these ensembles and shows you don’t have to worry too much about clashing. Alternatively, you can also find similar designs that are white and black, or where the toe cap is the same colour as the rest of the shoe.

Travel season is well underway, and along with warm weather getaways comes the perennial problem of wrinkled clothes from suitcases and hand luggage. Luckily, I'm here to tell you about a magical spray that can remove wrinkles from clothes without you having to pack an iron.

A few months ago, I discovered crease releaser spray, and – as a life-long ironing hater – I am now hooked on this magical bottle. It was great in spring for smoothing out wrinkles in my tops to wear with jeans, but I've really put it through its paces in the past few weeks with my summer linens, summer dresses and cotton t-shirts.

Essentially, this unassuming spray does what it says on the tin: if you have creases on your clothes, it will, erm, 'release them to a better place?' – it'll get rid of them, with just a few spritzes.

I've been using mine since April and haven't yet found a crease it couldn't remove. After the satisfaction of smoothing my clothes at home (often on the run, let's face it), I've also become slightly addicted, so that's why I couldn't bear the thought of leaving my suitcase-wrinkled holiday clothes feeling unloved. Into the case it went, and I don't regret it at all.

How to use crease releaser spray

I followed the simple instructions on the back of the Lenor bottle, and imagine that whichever brand you buy, it'll be the same system.

1. Place your item of clothing on a towel, and lay it flat on a hard surface. I admit that an ironing board would be ideal for lots of items, but for me that would miss the point of this faff-free system. So a table or bit of floor is my go-to!
2. Spray fabric evenly, from a distance of 15cm or so. You want to get the fabric fairly damp for best results, but not soaking wet!
3. Use your hands to smooth and pull away the creases. This bit is where I feel like a magician, and where you'll soon figure out a technique that works best for you. For me, that definitely means using two hands – one hand to hold an area down, the other hand to pull a section taut, in a sort of repetitive sweeping motion. In my demonstration video above I tried to use one hand while holding the phone in my other hand to film, but it didn't work very well.
4. Hang it up to dry

I'll let you in on another little secret, though: sometimes, when I'm in a rush to get the kids and myself out the door in the mornings, I skip step one and simply put the item on and spray it while wearing it. The heat from my body soon dries it out (though I may not be as keen to do this come winter).

This method's not quite as effective, not least because I can't reach the creases on my back, but gets the worst out and is better than going out with scruffy clothes.

Shop crease releaser sprays

How effective is crease releaser?

Very effective! Just look at the results in my photos. I haven't yet come across an item it doesn't work on. I've used it on dresses that have been tucked away in storage all winter, and they've come out looking great.

It even gets rid of the little indentations that clothes pegs can leave on clothes.

What fabrics does crease releaser work on?

I've used my crease releaser spray on cotton t-shirts, trousers and dresses, synthetic tops, linen shorts, and even on denim. I've just noticed that the bottle also suggests using it on bedding.

I haven't risked using it on silk items, as Lenor does advise caution with silks, nylons or other fabrics that tend to show water spots. For those fabrics it advises testing a small hidden area first, if that's possible.

It seems to me there are two types of summer happening at the moment. You're either off to see Oasis, decked out in Adidas, or you're channelling French girl summer.

Without a doubt, the Princess of Wales is taking inspiration from Parisian women right now. Did you notice she wore not one, but two of the very best French clothing brands, Christian Dior and Givenchy, yesterday?

We've seen Kate wear Chanel before, back in 2017, and I wondered whether we might see her tweed coat dress again for the French state visit this week. But I have to say, when Royal Editor Emma Shacklock and I saw the photos of Kate greeting President and Mrs. Macron yesterday, we gasped. The blush pink blazer, matching tulle skirt and angled hat were breathtakingly beautiful.

Whilst we'd all love to shop at Dior, Chanel, Sezane and Maje all day long, our budget doesn't stretch quite that far. Luckily, Amazon Prime Day has you covered. I've scoured the site for the très chic pieces that will elevate your summer capsule wardrobe beyond recognition.

Think of Amazon as your very own Champs-Élysées, with free next-day delivery. Oui, s'il vous plaît!

When it comes to styling advice for the French girl summer look, think understated elegance. Focus on classic pieces that won't date and quality fabrics that exude Quiet Luxury.

A simple white shirt like this one will see you through any style dilemmas, and stick to more muted colours and clean lines.

The key to finding a deal on your smartwatch upgrade is to bide your time and wait for the Apple Watch Prime Day deals.

Right now, we're in a sweet spot. The Apple Watch Series 10 was released in September 2024, so it's not 'brand new' anymore, but we've still got a while to go until the expected launch of Series 11 later this year. This makes it the perfect time to buy, and is perhaps the reason why this deal is so good.

It's certainly the lowest price I've seen the watch in the last three months, and if memory serves, the cheapest I've seen it since its release. So, if you're looking to upgrade, now really is the time.

I've been covering health and fitness for five years and have navigated at least 10 Amazon sales, so I'm clued up on the workings of Amazon Prime Day. Every year, I use the sale to highlight discounts on the best fitness trackers, including Apple Watches, for those looking to invest more in their health over the coming year.

Apple Watch Series 10 - quick review

The Series 10 is the newest Apple Watch. It's also the thinnest (10% more than the Apple Watch Series 9) and largest (30% bigger screen) device yet. It's comfortable to wear and charges quickly, with just eight minutes on the charger offering a full night of use.

It's one of the best sleep trackers, with sensors recording all vital signs from heart rate to body temperature, and insights available in the app, including sleep apnea notifications, sleep stages, and tips for improving your nightly routine.

When it comes to tracking your fitness, it is worth weighing up the Apple Watch vs Garmin as this brand is a frontrunner in the industry, but my reviewer, Digital Editor Kerrie Hughes, was very happy tracking her workouts with the Series 10.

She said: "The Training Load feature is my favourite. This feature works out the intensity and duration of your movements over time. It then provides data to help inform you when you can push a bit harder or when recovery might be needed. While it was also available on the Series 9, it brings the Apple Watch Series 10 in line with advanced watches like the Coros Pace 3 or the Garmin Forerunner 265."

There are over 30 workout modes to choose from, with detailed insights available on specific activities. For example, you'll get details on your vertical oscillation (how much you bounce up), cadence, and stride length during a running workout.

And of course, the smartwatch features are top tier, with complete integration into the Apple ecosystem. You can follow along with Maps, pay for your coffee with cards stored in the Wallet, download apps, play music from Apple Music, and so much more.

Overall, the only downside to the Apple Watch Series 10 is the battery life, and I hope to see this improve in future models. But the watch is still a winner in the market, and it would be difficult to recommend another smartwatch ahead of the Series 10 for Apple users.

More Apple Watch Prime Day deals

Is it safe to shop for Apple products on Amazon?

Yes, Amazon is a verified Apple retailer, which means the brand has given Amazon permission to sell its products. With this assurance, you know that each of the products on the Apple page of the official Amazon website is legitimate.

However, it is important to look out for the '[Renewed]' badge. These are products previously owned by other people, revamped by Amazon, and resold. At other times of year, they can be a good way to get an older Apple Watch model (like the Series 9 or 8, which are still worthwhile buys) for cheaper.

I haven't included Renewed products in my roundup above, as during peak sales seasons like Black Friday and Amazon Prime Day, you'll often find brand new models for the same price as these revamped ones. And when in doubt, I'd suggest opting for brand new.

I've recently been on a mission to make my home feel a little more elevated, without spending a fortune in the process. And with Prime Week underway, it felt like the perfect excuse to test out some of the best budget Amazon buys that can make your home look more refined and thoughtfully styled.

From small lighting tweaks to styling details and clever organisational upgrades, the products I’ve tried have had more impact than I expected. Just like the tips that help make a small living room look bigger, adding these products to my home has instantly made my space feel more put together.

Having recently used Amazon kitchen storage essentials to bring calm to my cupboards, I was keen to explore home styling finds more generally, and it's safe to say that I'm impressed.

5 understated Amazon buys that have elevated my home decor on a budget

What I love most about these finds is the price point, with all of them costing less than £25. They're a testament to the fact that elevating your home doesn't need to break the bank. And even better news – a few of my top picks are currently on offer.

1. Cordless lamp

This small rechargeable lamp has quickly become one of my favourite Amazon finds — not just because it looks so good on my coffee table, but because I can move it anywhere. It’s the first cordless lamp I've purchased and it's been a gamechanger. I take it with me whenever I want soft, ambient lighting, be it a bath in the evening or out on the balcony after sunset.

Right now, I’ve got it sitting on a stack of books on the coffee table, and it gives off just the right amount of glow. I’ve also used it on the dining table when we’re eating late and want the space to feel a bit more atmospheric.

The brushed brass-style finish gives it a slightly vintage look, and to say it cost less than £25, it’s had more impact than some of the full-size lamps I’ve bought in the past. It’s a simple swap, but one that’s made my home feel more cosy and elevated.

2. Beaded curtain ties

Beaded curtain tiebacks might not sound like a transformative home upgrade, but they've made a surprisingly big impact on my living room. They instantly add a bit of softness and charm to the space — and at just £7.99, they look far more expensive than they actually are.

The natural wooden beads have a lovely Scandi feel that works with most decor styles, but is especially perfect for a warm minimalist aesthetic. They’ve helped the curtains drape more neatly, which makes the whole window area look better as a result.

Because curtains can be costly, switching out the tiebacks is a smart way to elevate budget-friendly designs. Safe to say, I'm a fan.

3. Glass decanter

A glass decanter might seem like the reserve of fancy dinner parties or drinks trolleys, but I’ve found it to be an easy way to make my kitchen look more expensive on a budget. Mine sits next to the slow cooker, and even when it’s not in use, it works as a subtle styling piece that makes the area feel more luxe.

The cut-glass design catches the light beautifully, and although it was under £20, it has the weight and clarity of something much more expensive.

I don’t have a matching set of tumblers (yet), but even solo, the decanter elevates the counter in a way that feels low-effort but high impact. It's been one of my favourite Amazon budget buys for transforming the kitchen.

4. Wicker light shades

Swapping out a standard light shade for a woven wicker design has been one of the easiest upgrades I’ve made. For £20, I got two shades in this gorgeous woven material, which I've added to the bedroom and the hallway. They add warmth and texture, and cast a gentle, dappled light in the evenings.

Adding a light shade in a natural material is an easy way to make a bedroom more cosy, but it's especially perfect if you're a fan of coastal-inspired interiors, like the Amalfi decor trend.

5. Wooden hangers

Wooden hangers aren’t the kind of upgrade most people will ever notice, they’re tucked away behind wardrobe doors, after all, but they’ve probably made the biggest difference to how I feel in my home. I swapped out my mismatched plastic hangers for a full set of slim, natural wood ones, and now every time I open the wardrobe, it feels calmer, more organised, and much more luxurious.

After organising my wardrobe using IKEA's space-saving solutions, I felt inspired to upgrade, and I couldn't be happier with the result. The hangers themselves are sturdy, with a natural wood finish that looks a lot more expensive than it is – a set of 20 came in at under £15. They also help clothes hang better, and I haven't had anything fall off the hangers since using them.

It’s amazing how much impact a few affordable styling upgrades can have on the overall feel of your home. Which of these budget-friendly Amazon buys will you be trying to add a touch of luxury to your space?

When it comes to hero pieces for summer, you really can’t go wrong with a classic pair of denim cut-offs. The true blue separate is perfect for a casual daytime look and will work with absolutely every top you already own, so it’s a good idea to have a pair ready and waiting for weekend wear.

If you're struggling with how to style shorts, and don’t believe how chic they can be, take a look at Natalie Portman’s latest look. The 44-year-old actress was spotted strolling through New York City recently, wearing a low-key t-shirt and shorts combination. She finished her denim ensemble with a pair of sporty HOKA sneakers, and the Dior Cannage D-Bubble Bag. The star looked relaxed and effortlessly stylish, and her jean shorts were the perfect base piece to create an outfit for a busy day of errands.

A bit like your favorite jeans, once you have found a pair of denim shorts you love, you’ll find yourself wearing them again and again - a great option for what to wear in the heat, they will quickly become your warm weather uniform. I’ve rounded up a selection below to recreate Natalie’s sunny day look.

Shop the Look

You really are spoilt for choice when it comes to styling your denim basics. The relaxed fit and raw hem detailing lend themselves better to daytime dressing, so when it comes to outfits, look for soft t-shirts, white oversized shirts, or a simple vest top, and finish with anything from chunky espadrilles to your best white sneakers.

As with finding the best jeans for your body type, I’d always recommend trying on a few pairs of shorts to find the perfect fit. High-waisted styles will help to cinch in your middle and accentuate your curves. For added coverage, try a longer pair of Bermuda-style denim shorts too, they're a trending silhouette right now, making them easy to find.

The key to this look is to have a loose and slouchy kind of cut rather than anything too fitted and structured. Frayed hems, worn-in holes, and any faded detailing will all add to the laidback feel that Natalie showcased so well.

You might've been hearing all the buzz about Amazon Prime Day this week, but we've found some very tempting beauty bargains in Boots' Super Savings Week sale - these are our nine top picks...

While Boots' £10 Tuesday 24-hour sale event is now over for another week, the brand kickstarted a Super Savings Week, with deals on thousands of products site-wide. Taking place from the Tuesday 8th July to the Tuesday 15th July 2025, the sale welcomes an array of discounted beauty buys. We're talking rare savings from the likes of Clarins, Estée Lauder and Shark, including some of the best face moisturisers, long-lasting perfumes and even the one of the best LED masks.

So while yes, the current Amazon Prime Day beauty deals are very tempting, Boots also deserves your perusal. The retailer makes home to a plethora of stellar products, which can often result in what feels like endless scrolling in search of a good deal, so we've done the legwork for you. Here are the nine products we think are worth snapping up.

Our 9 must-have picks from the Boots Super Savings sale

We're a sucker for a beauty bargain and these Boots offers are hard to ignore. After all, you can save 33% on both Bondi Sands' self-tanning drops and Garnier's vitamin C SPF duo. Perhaps you're in the market for an anti-ageing serum? You can also snap up Clarins popular Double Serum for 20% less than its typical retail price, much like Dr Jart+'s green colour corrector which also boasts a 20% discount.

So, whether you're after a lightweight moisturiser or a travel-sized long-lasting lipstick, these are the products we'd check out, fast...

What is Boots £10 Tuesday?

Boots' £10 Tuesday is a weekly online-only sales event that takes place every Tuesday for 24 hours - or until stocks last. Customers can expect to see a number of selected beauty and wellness products marked down to just £10 - yes, you heard that right, everything in the sale is £10. In previous weeks, we've noticed savings on the likes of our beauty team's loved La Roche-Posay Cicaplast B5 Lavant Cleanser and the iconic OPI Nail Polishes in Funny Bunny and Big Apple Red.

Home to some of the most iconic and hard-working formulas on the globe, France is often our first port of call for all things skincare, makeup and fragrance. In fact, our team's beauty bags are bursting at the seams with both luxe and budget French beauty buys, the likes of which we'll be tactically restocking this Prime Day...

With shelves full of hydrating creams, serums, and under-the-radar scents, there's a reason why Parisian pharmacies have become a hot spot for beauty-forward visitors. The allure of French skincare (and so on) is understandable, what with iconic names like La Roche-Posay, Vichy and Caudalie and their beloved formulas, all hailing from across the pond. Even our team aren't immune to the draw of a chic French perfume or makeup buy.

In fact, our bathroom cabinets and dressing tables are laden with them, and while we'd love an excuse to fly overseas, it's not a requirement to build your own stash. You can find several cult favourites on Amazon, and with the Prime Day sales upon us, now's the time to shop - and these are the 10 discounted finds we recommend.

The 10 French beauty deals to snap up (because we definitely will be)

From the best La Roche-Posay products to glow-boosting primers, there's a plethora of French makeup and skincare staples to be found in the Amazon Prime Day beauty deals (with more set to emerge as the four-day sales event goes on).

If you're unsure what brands and formulas to invest in though, we've curated a list of 10 stellar deals, which are either best-sellers or team favourites that they'll be restocking this week...

Our everyday French beauty essentials

Luxe French beauty buys

Prime Day Need-to-Knows

To take part in the Prime Day sale (which begins on Tuesday, the 8th of July and continues until Friday the 11th), you will need to be a Prime member. A membership costs £8.99 monthly, or £95 annually, but there is also a 30-day free trial available to newcomers, which grants you all the perks of Prime (like free Next-Day delivery and access to Prime Video), and you can cancel anytime.

As for what French beauty brands Amazon stocks, as shown above, you'll find the likes of La Roche-Posay, Clarins, L'Oreal, Caudalie, Nuxe and many more, but do keep in mind that any discounts might be subject to change, with Amazon known to release flash, limited-time deals.