September’s signature new term feeling is almost upon us, and with that comes memories of fresh notebooks, squeaky clean shoes and a sharp AF uniform ready to tackle a new year of learning. Whilst thankfully the days of algebra and anthology revision are behind us, that breath-of-fresh-air feeling that hits as soon as September approaches is one that never gets old. If you’re looking to turn over a new leaf as autumn creeps ever closer and transitional dressing makes it way onto your Pinterest suggested searches, the high-streets new-in sections are sure to have you covered.

From light knits perfect for your last few alfresco dinners to tailored trousers that go with literally everything, high-street heroes including H&M, Weekday, Arket and & Other Stories are primed and ready to swing into action as the next payday approaches. Including wardrobe basics and fun, of-the-moment designs sure to amp up your clothes rail, this new-in edit is almost as hot as this summer’s heatwave.

Our top picks from H&M…

Our top picks from Weekday…

Our top picks from & Other Stories…

Our top picks from Arket…

*This post contains ad-affiliate links

This is a guest article written by Celebrity Hair Stylist and Presenter Tom Smith, for content pitches please email contact@zoella.co.uk.

You’ve decided to invest in some new hair products, but where do you begin? A Shampoo can cost £2 or £50 or even more and what about a heat protector? Do you really need that as well?

I’ve been hairdressing for over 15 years and have always been passionate about the home haircare products I recommend to my clients. I’ve also had the opportunity to work with various global brands throughout my career to date and have learnt first-hand that there are some wonderfully innovative and unique products that are well worth investing in, and others that are just not worth the hype. 

Here are my go-to product recommendations that are worth adding to cart!

The science-led products that ARE worth the hype

First up, let’s talk about the most ground-breaking launches of recent years. In the hairdressing industry, when new technology appears, it makes waves throughout the best salons globally. Those who have their finger on the pulse become intrigued by the latest launches. That was me in 2014 when I started hearing about Olaplex for the first time. Patented technology and a new, unique way of repairing the hair that sounded too good to be true; I got my hands on some, tested it, and was blown away by how unique and powerful the treatment was. Eight years on, it has cemented itself as one of the most popular developments in hair science ever and I still recommend it daily. 

So which Olaplex products are most worth your investment? Where should you spend your money? The reason Olaplex became famous is thanks to a patented compound that relinks broken di-sulphide bonds in the hair, the products that are available for home use that contain this in the highest percentage are Olaplex No.0 and Olaplex No.3. I highly recommend using both when aiming to dramatically repair damaged, fragile, or weak hair, or hair that has an irregular curl/texture pattern. You apply No.0 to dry, unwashed hair and layer on No.3 after 10mins for an additional 20mins – or as long as you can. Their other products are also great, but I would prioritise these first within your ‘haircare budget’. For instance, No.3 alone is good to maintain healthy hair or repair moderate damage.

The next most innovative scientific development of recent years is the K18 Leave In Mask. Designed to repair damaged hair, it’s marketed in much the same way but works in a different way to Olaplex. Simplifying the science; if the molecular structure of the hair is like a ‘ladder’, Olaplex will help to relink the ‘rungs’, while K18 relinks the ‘sides’ which they say, in turn, helps to relink the rungs. 

My top tip is to use the products in tandem; Olaplex No.0/No.3 before shampooing, then K18 Leave In Mask afterwards. For me, this combination is the ultimate, complementary solution to getting the most from your hair on a molecular level. This will build strong foundations and can be done every wash or every 6 washes depending on how needy your hair is and how much heat styling or chemical processes you subject your locks to.

The best heat and humidity protection products

On the topic of heat styling, the next most valuable place to spend your money is on protective products. Olaplex and K18 are what I would describe as ‘reparative’, meaning they have the ability to properly repair damage. But once that damage is repaired, or while the repairs are in progress, it is super important to prevent further damage from occurring, hence the need to invest in protective products. 

The most obvious of which is a heat protector (for those of you who use hot tools, such as, hair dryers or straighteners), but also products that provide UV protection, protection against humidity and protect your colour from fading. When it comes to heat protectors, I always recommend the lightest possible product – hear me out; if you’re putting a couple of drops of oil with a view to get some heat protection, how much are those two little drops going to do? Putting a lot on is surely going to make your hair oily, and the same can be said for cream-based products or heavy serums. My go-to Heat Protector recommendation is Evo Icon Welder, which is a light mist that boasts high heat protection plus light hold and style memory. You can use a generous amount of this without noticing weight or stickiness on your hair – meaning the more you use, the more protection you’re getting. 

When it comes to humidity and UV protection it’s got to be Color Wow Dreamcoat – a cult product that fights frizz and humidity in a totally unique way. Typically, all ‘anti-frizz’ products use heavy moisturising agents or ingredients called ‘film formers’ that coat and weigh down the hair to flatten it and fight the frizz, this is no good for fine to medium hair types as it can be far too heavy, even for coarser hair. Dreamcoat uses an invisible, fine matrix that seals the hair and protects from humidity, heat and UV, keeping the hair frizz free in a totally weightless way. The trick is to use a lot of it – really saturate your hair all the way through, and always follow with heat to seal the deal. It’s heat activated, so anything from a light blow-dry to meticulous straightening with irons will get best results.

The best colour maintenance products that tackle colour fade

Colour protection is two-fold. Investing in a good quality shampoo is essential when it comes to minimising colour fade (washing in cooler water, and minimising heat on your hair will also help) as your hair colour is most vulnerable when it is wet and being ‘cleaned’. Shampoos by nature are designed to remove dirt and oil build-up but can’t differentiate between that and unstable colour molecules – this means a high-quality shampoo that has a low pH to complement the hair whilst cleansing gently yet efficiently is the best option.

There are various I could recommend depending on your hair type but my top three would be Evo Gluttony Shampoo and Conditioner for fine to medium hair types, Pureology Hydrate for medium hair and Oribe Moisture and Control for coarse or highly textured hair types. If you want to prioritise your budget on the reparative and protective products recommended above, (and I have listed all my recommendations in order of importance for most people) French pharmacy brands are a great choice for a lower cost option. Klorane does some lovely gentle shampoos that will cleanse your hair while respecting its colour and moisture levels. I really like their Gentle Oat Shampoo for almost all hair types.

The other way to tackle coloured hair and protect it from fading is to actively ‘top it up’. Evo Fabuloso is a fantastic system of Colour Boosting Treatments that are available in various shades and double up as a conditioning treatment plus a home toner. These can be used in place of conditioner and left on for a few minutes to actually deposit pigment back into the hair. There is also a professional only system called Evo Fab Pro which is available at high end salons where your colourist can mix a bespoke shade just for you – if you can’t find these products in your salon, I offer online consultations through Billi Currie’s online store where I can mix the appropriate shade for you.

The stand-out conditioner & masks

Typically, these products can be interchanged – if your hair prefers a mask over a conditioner, then just use the mask every time. If you prefer to use a conditioner daily and a mask from time to time, that’s fine too. Evo Great Hydrator Moisture Mask is incredibly nourishing and leaves the hair feeling like silk and totally detangled – plus, it smells like a French bakery in the morning! Redken All Soft is a very friendly and caring conditioner that suits most hair types. Authentic Beauty Concept Amplify Conditioner is a conditioner that isn’t really a conditioner at all – it is a gel-like consistency that ‘calms’ the hair with zero weight; ideal for very fine or flat hair that struggles to be happily conditioned. If your hair is perpetually dry (and remembering Olaplex 0/3 or K18 won’t tackle the moisture levels of your hair at all) a product I recommend a lot which has been around for decades is Philip Kingsley Elastcizer (or elasticizer extreme for an even stronger option). This treatment is the most moisturising product I know and is used before you shampoo. Properly massaging it into brittle or coarse areas will really soften and hydrate them – just make sure to wash it out well afterwards.

Manage your hair at home with these essential tools

Now you’ve got most of your product regime clear, let’s go over some of the essential tools I think are worth investing in to manage your hair at home. 

When it comes to blow-drying the biggest investment of all would have to be a Dyson Supersonic hairdryer. I know it’s pricey, but it really is worth it for various reasons but mostly because of its internal temperature gauge which literally prevents you from accidentally burning your hair. Another great option for a hairdryer is a Parlux – but only if you’re disciplined enough to use it on the medium heat setting, unless you’re a professional hairstylist! 

My favourite straightening irons are the Cloud Nine Standard Iron – you can adjust the temperature easily, meaning you can control how much heat you’re putting on your hair – for anyone with finer or bleached hair, make sure you stay below 150 degrees. Cloud Nine also do some lovely curling wands which are extremely easy to use – I find a cylindrical barrel easiest; the conical wands can tend to be a bit slippy. 

Finally, for easy hair-drying at home or when you want to lessen your blow-drying time Kitsch do some fantastic ‘Quick Drying Hair Towels’ in which you can scoop up your freshly washed locks to help them air dry faster while you’re getting ready. They also have clever towelling scrunchies that are useful for the same purpose.

A hair care regime is extremely personal and a lot of finding the right products for you can be a bit trial and error but start with some of these recommendations which are tried and tested by me, and you’ll know your money is being well spent.

For more hair care tips and styling inspiration, follow Tom Smith on Instagram and TikTok. 

This article is in partnership with Butternut Box

They say do a job you love and you’ll never work a day in your life and when you take one look at this typical 9-5 day in the life of an office pup, you’ll realise these dogs have got it sussed. 

The grind? They don’t know it. The work-life balance? They’ve completed it. A so-called working day centred around food, tasty snacks and power naps, yep these lot are truly living the dream. If you have never looked at a dog and wished you had their life with every fibre of your being, prepare for that to change in the next 2-3 minutes…

Here’s a glimpse at a very demanding day in the life of an office dog (there’s not a violin small enough).

9am – Arrive at Zoella HQ

The so-called working day begins, and it’s off to a strong start with Milo and Nala in charge. They hotfoot it into Zoella HQ via the VIP entrance – aka the puppy gate – and much like humans and their ever-complicated relationship with revolving doors, seeing them try to navigate it never gets old.  

10am – Creative Meeting 

10 am is reserved for impawtant pupdates and key takeaways from the previous week. Nala leads on the creative, whilst Milo the esteemed grey bear chimes in with a couple of invaluable tips on how to work a room like a Frenchie. A Zoella exclusive: It’s all in the side-eye but a bandana helps. 

11am – Water Cooler Chat 

A quick break to socialise, procrastinate and chew each other’s ears off about the increasing number of sausage dogs in the city.
-XOXO Gossip Girl. 

12pm – Lunch Break 

Grub’s up at the office, and today, Milo and Nala dine like kings and queens. 

With the help of Pip the pug, the lovely people at Butternut Box have delivered a bona fide banquet and rumour has it, tender Beef It Up is on the menu. Woof, woof. 

Lovingly cooked with care using human-quality ingredients, Butternut Box is changing the way you feed your four-legged friends by creating fresh, tasty recipes tailored to suit them and delivered straight to your door – with healthy treats too if you choose. Easy for you, delicious for them!

As the UK’s first fresh dog food subscription service, they’re on a mission to deliver health and happiness to dogs and their humans all over the world. In fact, the ingredients they use are of such high quality that you can get stuck in too (literally). To ensure their recipes are up to scratch, they’re taste tested by humans for optimum quality assurance, so you can trust that what your doggo’s eating is good enough for human consumption. When it comes to their products, they’ll only ever make things that taste good and contain the right balance of vitamins and nutrients to nourish your dog from the inside out, whatever their age. 

With a wide range of tasty recipes, fuss pups couldn’t possibly turn their noses up once they get a sniff of what’s on the fine dining menu here, whilst farty Mcfarty dogs can enjoy balanced nutritious meals to help curb the afternoon trumps. Whether you’ve got a pup with flatulence issues (we’re looking at you, boxers, bulldogs and pugs) or a fussy eater on your hands, Butternut Box can put your pooch on a meal plan that’s tailored just for them. 

Choose from 10 fresh recipes including aromatic lamb with green beans to plant-based feasts and sustainably sourced white fish and kale. The carefully curated recipes make mealtimes as tasty as they should be for your pet, ensuring that they’re well fed and supported throughout every stage of their life. 

They use only the best quality sourced ingredients, gently cooked at 90 degrees to make them easier for your dog to digest and then frozen to lock in the natural goodness without relying on any nasty preservatives. For any dogs who prefer a warm meal in their bellies, all the recipes can be heated in the microwave making the at-home dining experience even better. 

With 65% of dogs in the UK falling into the overweight category, Butternut Box’s perfectly portioned pouches also take the guesswork out of feeding your dog, providing them with the right amount of sustenance to suit their needs. It’s the *chef’s kiss* food delivery service every dog parent needs to subscribe to. 

1pm – Walkies 

A quick screen break and a leg stretch past the pavilion, taking in the sights of Brighton. It’s a great place to be a dog, even if the seagulls are bigger than any broom, Hoover or cat they could ever come up against. They are the Great Danes of the skies and they rule them with an iron, doughnut-robbing beak. 

3pm – Afternoon Nap 

Too blessed to be stressed! Never one to pass up on the opportunity for a power nap, Milo rests his adorable weary chops and enjoys a well-deserved forty winks. This is usually a tense time for the humans in the vicinity, but miraculously, he doesn’t startle himself awake with his own farts today, so whatever’s in that gourmet beef is working. For the first time in a long time, the humans around here can inhale without fear. Praise be for Butternut Box, protecting nostrils since 2016. 

4pm – Pick Me Up Treat

A little something to fuel the afternoon slump. This is pawfect. Pawfect, pawfect, pawfect *TikTok voice*

5pm – Home Time 

The school bell sounds, and the pups shut their laptop lids at 5pm on the dot. They’ve got people to see, balls to seize and butts to sniff. Emails? Meh, that’s a Monday problem. 

We don’t deserve dogs and that’s a fact. They enrich our lives no end with their unconditional love and emotional support, so it’s only right that we enrich theirs right back, starting with the basics: their food. Switching up their meals has never been easier with Butternut Box on speed dial. In three easy steps, you can ensure your pup is eating clean and thriving from head to tail:

1. Introduce your pooch

Fill out a few questions about your beloved pooch, from how active they are to how many treats they get, and Butternut Box will calculate your personalised plan and pricing, creating the perfect meal plan to complement their breed, age, activity levels and dietary requirements. 

2. Your dog’s meals are delivered straight to your door 

Build your box and the perfectly portioned meals will be delivered to your door on a day that suits you, every few weeks. No waste, no fuss, no nasties. 

3. Update your plan as and when you need to 

Adjust your pup’s meal plan or pouch size according to their needs and eating habits, and change, pause or cancel your plan anytime. No commitment. You are in full control of your account. 

This article is in partnership with Butternut Box.

Driving anxiety, also known as amaxophobia, motorphobia or amaxophobia, describes the excessive, irrational fear people develop while in a vehicle. According to Anxiety UK, there are varying degrees of driving phobias, with some people struggling to drive on motorways, whilst others fear roundabouts, parallel parking, or being caught in traffic and not being able to ‘escape’.

“I think most new learners have a little bit of fear and mainly this is born out of the fear of the unknown, learning a new skill, tackling what for many are alien concepts,” says driving instructor, Mark Steeples.

The biggest triggers are mostly the fear of getting it wrong, the fear of crashing or in extreme situations, a memory of a close friend or family member who was killed or seriously injured in a road accident. There is also the constant tension of dealing with tailgaters; they exert undue stress and pressure on any driver let alone a learner. As an instructor my job is to alleviate those fears and help them find new pathways in the brain, hence learning muscle memory as with any new skill, but particularly so with learning to drive

Mark Steeples

Driving is undoubtedly an overwhelming skill to learn, with so much to think about and do seemingly simultaneously, there are countless scenarios a nervous driver can imagine getting themselves caught in, particularly after stressful past experiences that can see confidence being knocked from the off. But as with most things, consistent practice and tackling the problem head on can lead to incredibly positive results, and flipping the script on anxiety behind the wheel entirely… 

“For the vast majority, anxiety does decrease over time- it starts though with good instructors doing a good job. I take the view that what I’m teaching is a life skill and not just a process of getting through the test and then onto the next one on the list! As a consequence, I really take what I do seriously. Driving is a privilege and a huge responsibility to ensure safety of oneself and others. So good teaching is paramount in minimising risk. If the foundations to learning are correctly laid from the off, then much is done to lessen fears. Part of this is always considering the ‘what if’ questions – how does what’s happening in the road ahead affect what I may have to do and how I should control the car? It’s like a concert performance, rehearse well and there is less room for error.

“How do I deal with these? Well, it starts with reassurance; making it patently clear that I’m never going to put them into a dangerous or hazardous situation beyond which they can naturally cope. Moreover, why would I put them into such a place when I have an expensive motor car that could get damaged and result in me not being able to work as well as shattering their confidence! Starting learners off on quiet roads and building up their skill levels and gradually feeding them busier roads as their confidence and competence grows is the way forward.

Whilst sometimes driving anxiety can be caused by imagined scenarios, a recent survey from young driver insurance company Marmalade found that a whopping 81% of learner drivers experience abuse or intimidation. Aside from making learners more anxious, the most worrying impact is that it is making learners more prone to mistakes. Sadly, it has led to 12% taking a break from driving, with 90% of instructors saying behaviour from other drivers has impacted their learners negatively.

Instructor Mark is confident that despite the worrying stats, even the most nervous drivers shouldn’t allow fear of intimidation to get in the way of their driving successes. 

“In truth, I have so many positive stories from over the years, but two that particularly come to mind. I can think of one lady who’d not driven for several years following a really bad rear-end shunt which had caused severe neck and back injuries. Additionally, she lived with the trauma of always thinking that the car behind would go into her. So my job involved a huge amount of encouragement, early preparation for hazards ahead and regular mirror checks, following the MSM process. Her objective was to drive again to be able to drive to work once again and transport young children to various after-school activities. I’m pleased to say that together we worked on these issues and her confidence was restored.

Another lady who’d suffered a severe stroke had to learn to drive again with a specially adapted mobility car. She’d lost much of the use of the right side of her body and thus needed to drive with adaptations tailored to her left side. She was, after several lessons, able to become fully independent again, behind the wheel. Her review on my website speaks volumes!

Beyond these, I can think of many new students who were initially very nervous at the prospect of driving and then to see them having successfully passed their test, driving independently in their own cars is very satisfying, both for them and me.”

London-based blogger, author of The Insecure Girl’s Handbook and self-proclaimed previous anxious driver, Liv Purvis, often speaks online of her experience in overcoming debilitating driving fears and transitioning from panic induced stalling at traffic lights to road trips to the seaside with passengers in tow, and the radio firmly switched on! 

“I wasn’t anxious in the sense that, y’know, I’d rather not do it but still would. Anxious as in leaving my car outside my parents house for so long it had to be given away, and the thought of driving anywhere solo would leave my hands in a state so clammy you’d think I was resitting my GCSEs every time I thought about getting behind the wheel. And that’s without even thinking about hill starts, finding the bloody biting point or approaching a roundabout.

I catastrophised every thought about getting behind the wheel, and continually told myself I wasn’t able to do it. I wasn’t a good driver and I’d be more trouble on the road than off of it. But the mounting pressure of things I’ve wanted to do, people I’ve wanted the ease of seeing and places I’ve wanted to visit- as well as a shamefully groaning Uber account and new responsibilities meant that getting back behind the wheel (even more so as someone with a licence) felt like a now or never moment. 

Liv Purvis

“Making a plan (including booking some refresher lessons and finding an instructor that could offer support on a flexible basis) and approaching these aims with a slow, considerate mindset was game-changing. Giving myself little goals, but acknowledging that they’re free of watertight deadlines and it’s okay if it’s not all easy and linear has made things so much easier too. And that’s just it- because it has gotten easier.

“I continually try and remember that I don’t have to feel comfortable doing things straight away, and although it’s good to make progress; progress comes from time and experience. That’s not a bad thing, but it won’t happen immediately either. Confidence takes patience, and remembering that you properly learn to drive only once you start driving (mostly after you’ve passed your test) has helped a lot too.”

Motoring journalist at The Daily Telegraph and campaigner for closing the gender pay gap in auto, Erin Baker, shares her practical tips for overcoming anxiety on the road:    

• Take time finding the right instructor, ask around friends and family for recommendations. Especially ask how they handle nervous drivers and don’t feel like you need to settle if you’re not comfortable, you’ll find the right match eventually!
• Go at your own pace, don’t feel the need to compare yourself with others and their learning journey.
• If you find that friends or family make comments that make you feel uncomfortable, you can stop discussing details of your lessons with those people. You don’t need external judgement when learning a new skill!
• Take control of your own learning, if you want to spend time focusing on certain aspects of driving, for example clutch control, then communicate that to your instructor – they are there to help facilitate your learning. You should take an active role in participating in the pace and approach to driving. 

“I always advise newly qualified drivers to consider taking the PassPlus course or advanced driving course; at the very least to ensure they don’t venture out onto a motorway until they have been given some guidance by a parent or family friend,” concludes Mark.

“Failing that, practical tips are, planning the route to be taken with reference to a map and not just relying on the sat nav; allowing plenty of time for the journey; perhaps choosing quieter times to travel and avoiding rush hours where possible, also consider driving accompanied to help with route guidance and reassurance on the road until the driver feels more confident.”

Whilst typically wedding planners might suggest you opt for anything but items or styles dubbed ‘hottest trends’, there’s good reason to ignore that advice when thinking about 2022’s most dreamy bridal trend, taking over Pinterest boards everywhere.

Short wedding dresses are arguably the height of bridal style right now, giving their floor-length counterparts a serious run for their money as micro weddings, elopements and more relaxed celebrations continue to be on the rise following the pandemic. For those hoping to re-wear their dress,  planning an uncomplicated town hall wedding, or who simply love the silhouette of all things mini, the short wedding dress makes for the perfect choice for both minimalist and maximalist lovers alike. And you’ll be in good company too! Celebrity brides including the likes of ultra-stylish Kourtney Kardashian, Lily Allen and Chiara Ferragni all opted for mini wedding dresses for either part, if not all, of their celebrations, bucking convention and accelerating the trend whilst doing so. 

If you’re yet to say yes to the dress, look no further for a dose of seriously inspiring short bridal ‘fits sure to convert you to team mini…

The ultimate puff sleeve romanticism

Via @shop_cinq

Photographer: @pscobia

One shoulder chic serving the perfect balance of classic and playful

Via @taylorhughesphotography

The tulle skirt of dreams

Via @katherineriveraphoto

Lovely layering + bohemian veil = perfection

Via  @harriettegordon @liz_looker 

Party in the back

Via devlinphotos @themorgans_to_be

An ode to capes and their beautiful, dramatic selves

Via daughtersofsimone

An organza bonanza, paired beautifully with an ethereal ribboned bouquet

Via @macy.style

No over-complication necessary

Via @tara_lauren

Short in length, big on impact

Via @sposamiacouture

Perfectly ‘I do’ worthy!

Via @roseredbridaldesigns

Photographer: @jasmynrosephotography

The more mini the better, finished with a lace bolero that will be forever turning heads

Via @kyraunfltd

Shoulder pads should not be left in the 80s and this dress is all the evidence you should need

Via Stephanie Green Weddings

The beauty of the humble shirt dress simply knows no bounds

Via @svenjapetersenphotography @goldcircusstudio

More is more- that’s the mantra

Via @odylynetheceremony

A beautiful bow atop silk simplicity

Via  @harriettegordon @liz_looker 

Tradition? We don’t know her

Via @lindleybattle @cassbbydesign

From the stress of the cost of living crisis to political instability and the end of the European leg of Harry Styles Love on Tour *cries to the tune of ‘Matilda’* – National Wellness Month 2022 couldn’t come soon enough. 

Not ones to turn down an opportunity to celebrate downtime and make wellness the centre of our universe, August seems as good a time as any to take a deep breath, hit the pause button and focus on taking care of yourself physically, mentally, and emotionally. And what better way to mark this glorious date in the calendar than with a feel-good giveaway, guaranteed to boost your spirits, combat stress and equip you with everything you could ever need to make this month your happiest yet?

We’ve teamed up with our friends at SheSpot to offer one lucky Zoella reader a bumper stack of self-care treats spanning mood-balancing sexual wellness products, a spa break for two, a subscription with Bloom & Wild, and not one but TWO top-tier sex toys. Leo season just got even better! 

To be in with a chance of winning the juicy self-care bundle worth over £1,000, simply enter your name and contact email address below, and keep reading for a look at the list of prizes up for grabs…

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What’s up for grabs…

• Classic spa break for two – Win a spa break gift voucher for two from Spabreaks.com – Wellness Month – we understood the assignment! Grab your other half or bestie and indulge in a one-night bed and breakfast, full use of leisure facilities and one relaxing 25-minute treatment per person. Choose from a wide variety of spa hotels across the UK. 

• A flower subscription with Bloom & Wild – Receive flowers through your letterbox every 28 days for 6 deliveries. Full of the stems Bloom & Wild florists love using all-year round, their beautiful bouquets are guaranteed to make you smile, reduce stress and boost your mood. All power to the petals.  

• Biird Namii – Biird’s new 2-in-1 clitoral stimulator made from ultra-soft silicone. Designed to dive into your desires (and your partner’s), Namii comes with both suction and vibration functions which can be used independently or at the same time. Even better, Namii works hands-free! The icing on the cake? Its elegant magnetic charging base doubles as a mood light. Happy National Wellness Month indeed!

• Biird Evii – As featured in the SheSpot x Zoella collaboration box. Tap into your hidden desires with the Evii. Combining a squishy silicone body and two powerful motors, Evii™ delivers smooth vibrations and instant orgasms. Biird are also throwing in a pair of clitoris socks and earrings, here to remind us all of the importance of sexual equality!

•  Mallows Beauty Pineapple Enzyme Skincare Range – The Mallows Beauty best-selling mask plus the rest of the family: Cleanser, Toner, Moisturiser and Spot Treatment Gel to go with it. 

• SheSpot Autumn Box – First access to the SheSpot Autumn Box launching 1st of September, featuring a curated selection of self-love treats from luxury sexual wellness brands as well as the limited edition Pleasure Pouch exclusive to the SheSpot x Zoella collab box! This fairtrade organic cotton bag is the ultimate travel companion and perfect for storing your sexual wellness goodies. 

• Ilapothecary Feminine Happy Oil – A mood-balancing blend of fragrant essential oils for all-over body nourishment. The synergistic combination of sandalwood (known to balance the pituitary) rose, jasmine and herbs creates a powerfully soothing, beautifully feminine oil for the body. This happy oil is ideal for times of stress, fatigue, plain moodiness or moments when you feel out of touch with your soft, feminine goodness.

• Ilapothecary SOS Body Balm – A miracle herbal balm which is perfect for summer. It helps soothe sunburn and mosquito bites, relieve bruises, aching muscles and swollen joints, as well as deeply soothe and calm dry skin, thanks to a divine smelling mix of powerful remedial ingredients such as Arnica, Blue chamomile, which are powerful anti-inflammatories, in addition to Rose Geranium, Lavender, and Sandalwood.

• Ilapothecary Speak Your Truth Aroma Roller – A delightful pulse point that has a rich, feminine scent, combining the Mothers of Aromatherapy – Rose and Sandalwood, with a hint of sweet, uplifting vanilla. The resulting flowery scent is harmonising, romantic and sensuous. It helps ground and carry you into a positive dimension where anything is possible. 

• Ilapothecary Quiet Start Body Scrub – A sensuous and nurturing exfoliating scrub, ideal for those times when your skin feels a little lacklustre and dry. Jasmine hydrates and prompts a feel-good feeling, whilst Pearl helps to cocoon and leaves your skin with a lovely sheen. The Himalayan salts help to remove rough areas of skin leaving you feeling fresh and revitalised.

• Quanna self-care bundle – Oomf 50ml bottle and Sensual CBD bath bomb. Self-care begins with mindful ingredients such as premium-grade CBD, which helps you attain peak bliss by unwinding any muscle tension and casting away intrusive thoughts. 

• An online membership to StrongHer – say hello to the PT in your pocket! You’ll get a 1-month online membership to StrongHer Online – the women-only strength training, HIIT and flexibility experts, and will get to choose between Strength or Shred concepts. If you’re London-based, you can exchange that for a StrongHer gym membership IRL. You’ll also get a VIP voucher to get £25 off your next pair of sports trainers from their partner AISLE3 and a set of 3 amazing booty bands (light, medium and heavy) to re-activate those glutes.

As well as the main giveaway, there will also be three runners-up prizes up for grabs. Good luck! Entries close on Monday 29th August 12:01am (UK time) and the winner will be announced on 31^st August. 

Margot Robbie has influenced many a trend over the years, be it from her perfect blonde locks to her enviable glowing skin. Latest on the list we hear you ask? All pink everything. Barbiecore has been crowned fashion’s newest ‘it girl’ after photos of Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling on set of the new Barbie movie broke the Internet earlier this summer, and it’s not hard to see why… 

The trend celebrates everything that dopamine dressing and hyperfemininity is all about, and from pretty pastel to vibrant hot pinks, there’s no such thing as OTT when rocking this trend- that is, according to fashion’s biggest A-listers. From Sebastian Stan’s striking hot pink Valentino getup at this year’s Met Gala, to Lizzo and Harry Styles’ matching pink Gucci looks at Coachella, anyone who is anyone is wearing pink, pink and more pink. Greta Girwig’s Barbie is set to drop in 2023, and the trend is only anticipated to grow as its release draws closer. 

Alas, for us normal folk a head-to-toe magenta look might not feel quite so attainable, so if you’re seeking a slightly more wearable way to inject a slice of Barbie into your wardrobe, get your bank cards at the ready…

*This post contains ad-affiliate links

Quality time, words of affirmation, acts of service, gifts and physical touch- we are of course talking about the 5 love languages, aka the different ways we give and receive love. Said by some to have the biggest impact on relationship satisfaction and longevity, these categories were originally created by counsellor Gary Chapman in 1992, and have since formed the basis for much of what we know about relationship success. Simply put: without knowing your partner’s love language, any consistent effort to show up for them could be falling on deaf ears if it doesn’t fit with the ways they wish to receive love- effectively showcasing romantic feelings is all about recognising your partner’s individual needs.

The official 5 Love Languages website has a comprehensive quiz designed to help you discover your primary love language, what it means, and how you can use it to better connect with your loved ones, and once both you and your partner are on the same page it’s time to put into practice your new-found knowledge.

Whether your partner taking certain tasks off your hands is what makes your heart swell, or the idea of them picking up your favourite snacks on the way home makes you feel most connected to them, consider these date night ideas the perfect way to express and receive love in a way that means you and your S/O feel truly seen and loved.  

Your partner feels loved when you carve out time specifically for them, giving them your full focus and attention without distraction. Whether this means putting your phone on ‘do not disturb’ or scheduling dates that require you to both be fully engaged in what the other one is saying, quality time is very different to the time you may spend together watching your favourite show or doing the weekly shop. 

A Digital detox 

Whether part of your weekend away or simply an add-on to your at-home dinner date, suggesting a digital detox where both of your devices are locked away in another room is an easy way to share time with your partner and give them your undivided attention. 

A Road trip

Grab the snacks, make a curated playlist especially for them and hit the road, baby! Car chats are the best chats and the long open road ahead of you is surprisingly prime time for spending time one on one. 

Block out their diary with a midweek date night

Essentially, a quality time lover’s wet dream, taking the initiative to make plans of your own accord and letting them in on the details later is a surefire way to win over those who are forever looking forward to the next date night. 

Breakfast in bed

Simple, effective, beautifully intimate, a weekend brunch in bed is the stuff dreams are made of. Whip up a stack of fluffy pancakes or even order a McDonald’s to your door and start the day off together making eyes across a Sausage and Egg McMuffin. 

A Spa Weekend

The ultimate digital detox, a day at the spa disconnecting from the outside world is the perfect way to spend quality time together whilst both feeling relaxed to the max. Massages, a dip in the pool and a glass of bubbly over lunch, what’s not to love?!

A weekend away

Perhaps the most costly and extravagant date option but one that will no doubt have quality time lovers weak at the knees, a weekend away dedicated purely to spending 48 hours with one another is the ultimate treat for those who value experiences and intimate time away with their partner. Whether it’s a U.K staycation to a new city or a more lowkey camping trip within an hour of home, it’s the thought that counts for those who never tire of hanging out with their other half. 

Some words are felt deeper than others, and those who value words of affirmation tend to feel most connected to their partner upon hearing kind words or compliments- the less generic the better! These words of encouragement don’t have to be spoken aloud either, and could instead include a simple hand-written note or card. 

Write each other a love letter during an at-home dinner date

If delivering a heartfelt speech across dinner feels a little try-hard for your liking, a more achievable, less self-ick-inducing date idea might include a romantic home-cooked dinner, followed by exchanging cards or letters to one another that are filled with kind words and true expressions of your feelings. Your S/O will treasure it forever! 

Recreate your first date

There’s nothing like heading back to the location of your first date or time you met to evoke some serious heartfelt feelings, triggering heartfelt exchanges aplenty as you reflect on how far you have come as a couple and the feelings that have grown during your time together. Pass the tissues! 

Plan a scavenger hunt, featuring heartfelt notes

Perfect for a special occasion date or to spice up your monthly date night, organising a scavenger hunt around your city or home is the perfect way to sneak some words of affirmation and compliments into your time together, including sentimental words that are sure to leave a lasting impact. 

Organise a matching tattoo session

For long term lovers and those in committed relationships, a matching tattoo is not only the perfect way to immortalise your love, but can also act as a permanent reminder of a meaningful word between you, a phrase from a Valentine’s Card you treasure or a song lyric that speaks to you both. Commitment has never felt sexier.

Visit a book store and buy each other a new book

Words of a different nature here, but for those who value words of affirmation, picking out a romantic, sentimental or poignant book you think they would love will likely trigger big feelings. Write a meaningful note in the front and boom- dream gift, secured. 

Acts of service lovers feel most valued when their partner does something to actively make their life easier- be it cooking a meal, or running an errand without being asked, taking time to prioritise their partner by helping to reduce stresses where possible is an act of service lovers dream. 

Organise a cooking class together

Practical actions are an act of service lovers dream, meaning organising an activity like a cooking class that can benefit both of you will get a big thumbs up. Bonus points if you listen carefully enough to recreate the recipes at home!

Take part in their hobby

It’s about actions over words, and taking part in a hobby of theirs- especially if it’s something you don’t normally do- is earning you major brownie points for AOS lovers. Take the initiative to join in and immerse yourself in their world and they will love you even more for it.

Surprise them with a mid-week lunch date

Unexpected “I’m outside” texts are hot, end of story. Surprise your other half at work by taking them out for lunch when you know they’re having a stressful week and alleviate some of that pressure with a debrief and hug over a Katsu Curry. Ask them what you can do to help and be there to support them when things feel heavy- they’ll be eternally grateful.

Make a playlist for them and listen to it together

Music is often the way to the heart, and this date idea will ensure they feel truly seen and appreciated. Surprise your S/O with a playlist to make them smile- whether it’s a combination of meaningful songs from your relationship or new tunes you think they would love- and listen to it together with a glass of wine in hand. 

Although this love language may on the surface appear materialistic, gift giving is far more about thoughtfulness than the value of a present. Gift giving reminds your partner that they are on your mind, no matter how small or inexpensive the gift is, and affirms to them that even when you are apart you are thinking of ways to make them smile. 

Pottery painting

Head to your nearest BYOB pottery painting and prepare for the most wholesome date of all. Not only is it a perfect way to spend quality time together, but you both get something to take away and keep forever- cute AF! 

Head to a gallery and hit up the gift shop

The perfect way to spend a rainy day, local galleries, museums and exhibitions can offer hours of intrigue and fun. Finish your cultured date with a visit to the gift shop and purchase a memento for your S/O- be it a keyring, book or poster, your gift loving partner will treasure it. 

Surprise them with gig tickets

Be it as part of a birthday or Christmas gift or just because, experiencing a concert together is a memory that’s sure to last, and organising and purchasing the tickets for your partner is the ultimate impressive date night. 

PYO patch

Summer and autumn dates just got a whole lot more outdoorsy thanks to the humble Pick Your Own strawberry/blackberry/pumpkin/squash fields up and down the country. Pay for your partner’s pickings and head home to carve your pumpkins, bake a blackberry crumble or make a refreshing glass of Pimm’s with a selection of juicy strawberries. Yum! 

Ring Making

The ultimate in romantic gestures with an end result your partner will hold dear to their heart, a ring making workshop is the perfect choice for creative couples looking to create a lasting memory together.  Stuck for inspo? We had bundles of fun making our own rings with Cast! 

Those who value physical touch above all other love languages feel most loved when receiving affection through touch, be it a hug, sex, holding hands, an arm around your shoulders in public. Serotonin, dopamine, and oxytocin are released when we touch those we love, with oxytocin in particular being known as the bonding hormone. Physical touch lovers are more likely to enjoy public displays of affection and spontaneous kisses or touching of skin. 

Couples Massage

Grab the hot oil, light some candles and prepare for a sensual evening like no other. You need not be a professional masseuse to impress your partner with this date idea- sparks will be flying no matter what once the lights are dimmed and clothes are removed…

Book a dance class

From swing to ballroom, foxtrot to tango, a dance class in which you’re up close and personal with your partner is sure to inspire some flirty fun. Start the night over a drink in your gladrags and enjoy some quality time strutting your stuff together and enjoying physical touch galore. 

Share a booth at dinner

Dinner just got upgraded with this spin on your normal date night. Find a restaurant where you can share a booth and enjoy a delicious meal and drinks sat side by side. This simple switch to your normal routine offers a chance for your partner to feel physically close to you, and will truly make their heart sing. 

Walk a new route holding hands

Sometimes the less expensive dates are the best ones, and really who can top a Sunday morning walk with a coffee and your love? Grab a pastry and find somewhere scenic to sit, before continuing your stroll hand in hand, feeling the love radiate between you both. 

Got a good quick-fire question for the team? Get in touch over on Instagram!