As a seasoned fashion writer who regularly covers the Princess of Wales' style, I've come to expect refined, understated pieces in her wardrobe—especially when it comes to her collection of handbags. One of her latest appearances in London was no exception. During a visit to the Anna Freud Centre, the Princess carried one of Demellier's newest designs: the Hudson.

The London-based brand is known for its refined minimalist aesthetic and enduring appeal—designs that strike a balance between elegance and practicality. My own large Demellier tote has become a reliable work bag, comfortably accommodating a 16-inch laptop.

Demellier Black Friday Sale: Quick Shopping Links

• The New York Midi: was £475.00, now £380
• The Hudson: was £585.00, now £468
• The Miami: was £485, now £339
• Capri Canvas Tote Bag: was £265, now £185

If a compact silhouette is more your pace, take a page from Kate Middleton's book and opt for their newly reimagined style. A reimagining of one of the brand's best sellers, the small Hudson is now available in three colourways: chocolate-brown suede (as seen on Middleton) and tan and black in grain fabric.

Now available for pre-order, all of these iterations and more are currently 20% off during Demellier's Cyber Monday weekend sale. Simply add to your cart and use code MARIECLAIREUK20 at checkout.

Avid followers of the brand will recognise this rare opportunity to acquire one of the celebrity, fashion editor, and now royal-loved brand's pieces, as it seldom discounts its best-sellers.

From The New York to the Hudson, in a variety of sizes and finishes, we've rounded up the standout handbag styles currently on sale if you're looking to invest in one of these timeless accessory staples.

Shop More Demellier Handbags On-Sale

Notorious for its occasion dresses and loved by the likes of Sofia Richie Grainge and the Princess of Wales, Rixo certainly knows how to make elevated investment pieces that find themselves at the top of every fashion-conscious person's wishlist. So, it's only natural that when there's a chance to shop the British brand's most timeless bestsellers for a notable discount, I'm all ears.

There are plenty of Black Friday sales that I steer clear of—I am a huge proponent of buying less and investing in higher quality pieces that will stay in your capsule wardrobe for decades. However, Rixo's sale isn't one of them. I have a few Rixo pieces in my collection that continue to look good as new even after countless wears and washes, and there is almost no design the label has produced that I can see losing its appeal any time soon.

With party season upon us, the need for a dress you can turn to on repeat is firmly back. And I can very confidently say that any Rixo gown will remain in your collection for weddings, cocktail parties, or even Christmas Day. But it's not just dresses—Rixo's iconic leopard coat, floaty blouses, and elevated knitwear are all worth a look in too.

The good news is the brand's Black Friday sale is now officially underway, and continuing for Cyber Monday today, with 25% off site wide. That means you can find the best Rixo dresses, the sought-after Rixo x Dragon Diffusion collab, and Rixo x Billie Bhatia for an impressive discount.

Look no further for Black Friday capsule wardrobe buys, carefully curated to help you narrow down the very best investment buys.

Shop Rixo's Black Friday sale

I don't think I'm alone in saying that gourmand scents are perhaps some of my least favourite out there. Often heavy and cloying, they have a distinctly youthful feel that doesn't really match up with my preference for light and fresh perfumes.

That being said, I have always had an unusual penchant for vanilla fragrances. But not just any vanilla—my fussiness knows no bounds. However, Phlur's Vanilla Smoke, with notes of incense and aromatic birch, might just be the vanilla to convince even the most sweet-averse to give into gourmands. Undoubtedly one of the best Phlur perfumes, I recommend it to anyone that will listen.

Narrowing down the very best perfumes for women is no small task, and finding one to work for all budgets is even trickier. The beauty of Phlur's perfume mists is not only their affordability, but sophisticated and long-lasting finish they provide—and Vanilla Smoke is no exception.

If you're not familiar with Phlur, I recommend you get acquainted fast. First founded in 2015 in Texas and relaunched in 2021, it's a fragrance brand with a modern and elevated feel. With woody, musky, floral, and fruity blends, the idea is to layer multiple Phlur sprays—or experiment with switching up your scent profile day to day.

Producing both eau de parfums and body mists in cylindrical bottles that pull my whole bathroom vanity display together, you'd never guess that Phlur is the most affordable fragrance brand in my entire collection.

Vanilla Smoke is one of those scents that subverted my expectations when it comes to gourmands. It's simultaneously universally appealing and unlike anything else I've spritzed before. With notes of creamy vanilla combined with incense, amber, aromatic birch, cacao blanc and smoky balsam, it layers the sweeter top notes over a blanket of cosy, woody base scents. Think Tom Ford's iconic Tobacco Vanille, but lighter and slightly less warm.

It's designed to be a hair and body mist, and I can attest to the fact that it really does stick. The richer base nose stay around the longest, but subtle hits of vanilla continue to cut through during the day. I've also been known to use it as a room spray when my space needs a refresh, and it settles beautifully in the air too.

I can hazard a guess that most people who dislike vanilla perfumes typically do like the natural scent of vanilla—what turns most of us off is the sugary, powdery finish that often comes with it in perfume blends. But by combining traditional vanilla with muskier notes that give Vanilla Smoke a tangible maturity, Phlur has managed to make an anti-vanilla vanilla perfume come to life.

Currently reduced to just £20 in the Black Friday sale (or £30.40 for the 236ml bottle), it's the most affordable fragrance in my whole collection. And even if you're still not quite sold on the vanilla scent, the entire Phlur range is currently discounted. I recently invested in Rose Whip as a gift for my mum, and it easily stands up to some of the other floral scents I have bought her in the past that are double the price.

More of my favourite Phlur fragrances

Few beauty tools spark as much conversation as Dyson’s. After all, the brand reshaped at-home styling in 2016 with the launch of the original Supersonic Hair Dryer—a lightweight, powerful device that changed the way we think about airflow. A few years later, they turned heads again with the launch of the Airwrap Multistyler, the first hair tool to harness the Coanda effect (the tendency of air to wrap around a curved surface) to style hair without extreme heat.

Since then, Dyson has continued to refine and upgrade its tools, with each new model offering frontline technology and insightful innovation. But with so many versions now available, it can be hard to know which one is right for your hair type, your routine and your budget (when each tool comes with a price tag well into the hundreds, it’s not a decision to make lightly).

So, the Marie Claire UK team put the latest launches to the test—including the Supersonic Nural, the Supersonic r, the Airwrap Coanda 2x and the Airstrait—comparing each to its predecessor and weighing up whether they’re truly worth the investment. Here’s our in-depth Dyson hair tools review…

How we tested each Dyson hair tool

Each device was judged on its efficacy, innovation and results, with every element assessed, from the packaging and instructions to ease of use, the overall experience and the final outcome. Each editor tested their device over several weeks to ensure a fair and thorough trial. There are the results...

Airwrap Co-anda 2x Multi-Styler and Dryer

The latest iteration of the Dyson Airwrap, the 2x uses Dyson’s most powerful haircare motor yet, the Hyperdymium™ 2. Spinning at an eye-watering 150,000rpm (that’s nine times faster than a Formula 1 engine), it delivers 30% more power and twice the air pressure. This means that hair dries as quickly as it would with a full-sized professional dryer, and it creates curls, waves and sleek styles faster—and all without extreme heat.

There’s also a layer of personalisation via the Dyson app, a memory function to store your settings, and upgraded attachments compared to previous models. In other words, it’s an upgrade on the Airwrap ID and the original in every meaningful metric.

To really put the Airwrap 2x through its paces, I started with sopping-wet hair straight out of the shower. According to the instructions, hair should be around 80% dry before styling, and I reached that point in just two minutes flat with the Fast Dryer attachments.

Then, I ued the 40mm Coanda curling barrel to finish my styling. It took a bit of getting used to, and there were a few sections where my hair was blowing is every direction, but I managed to get the hang of it quite quickly. It was impressive to see my hair being drawn in, wrapped, styled and set in seconds. and I worked my way around my head, switching the direction of the airflow halfway through.

From dripping wet to a full, bouncy blow-dry, the entire process took just nine minutes. At £579.99, it’s undeniably a serious investment—but it truly does it all, and in record speed. I finished with a texture mist and a little hairspray, and the style held relatively well. There was some volume drop-off straight away and the curls softened throughout the day, but with my fine, slippery hair, that feels inevitable.

Dyson Supersonic Nurale Hair Dryer

The key innovation of the new hair dryer is the intelligent Nural sensors, which activate the scalp protect mode. An invisible infrared beam measures the distance between the hair dryer and your hair, and then changes the heat and speed modes accordingly to protect the skin on your scalp.

The dryer comes with five attachments - the Gentle air attachment (allows for fast and gentle styling by evenly dispersing airflow); the Styling concentrator (much like the ones that come with your traditional hair dryers, this one is wider and thinner for more precise styling); the Wide-tooth comb (designed to be used on curls and coils to help lengthen or add volume); the Flyaway attachment (smooths short hairs to prevent flyaways) and the brand new Wave+curl diffuser, which uses reversible airflow to better define waves, curls and coils.

You can use this dryer in exactly the same way as the original Supersonic - where you control the temperature and speed settings - but the Nural will remember your preferences depending on the attachment.

Overall, I think this is a brilliant hair dryer. I used another dryer whilst I was in a hotel recently and it struck me just how hot my scalp was becoming when I was using it. It was then that I appreciated how innovative the technology really is. As for how it compares to the original Supersonic? I see it as an upgrade—you can use the Nural in the same way as the original, with the added benefit of the scalp technology. If you're going to invest in one or the other, I'd buy the Nural.

Dyson Supersonic r Hair Dryer

I am yet to find a Dyson tool that I don't get on with, but I will admit that I wasn't sure whether there was a need for another Supersonic hair dryer when the others (original Supersonic and Supersonic Nural) are already so brilliant. I've known about the 'r' for a while now, as it originally launched last year for professionals only, which again slightly confused me as to where this one sits amongst the lineup.

I've been testing it for almost a month now, and the thing that stands out is how quickly I can dry my hair. I have long, fine hair, and a lot of it. Blow-drying my hair typically takes so long that I have long been in the air-dry camp. But using the 'r' has made the process so quick that I would consider changing my allegiances. It's lightweight, comes with useful attachments and no longer makes drying my hair a chore.

Dyson Airstrait Straightener

The Dyson Airstrait is a genuine piece of engineering art. It’s the only straightener that uses the Dyson Hyperdymium motor to deliver powerful, directional airflow that smooths and aligns hair—without hot plates or extreme heat. I’ll admit I was initially sceptical. Setup feels a little intense: you have to press the Test and Reset buttons on the plug first for safety, then choose your settings, from wet or dry mode to airflow strength and temperature. Once you clamp down on your section, it senses the hair and fires a burst of high-powered air, before returning to low flow when you’re done.

My hair normally needs several passes with a traditional straightener, and even then, the ends tend to flick. But with one single pass, the Airstrait took my wet hair to bone dry and poker straight.

If I’m being picky, it left my hair almost too straight. Adding movement proved tricky—the device is more difficult to manoeuvre than straighteners, and you can’t twist or flip it in the same way. Turn it upside down and the airflow sends your hair upwards; try to curl with it and the results fall flat.

But the time-saving element is unbeatable. If you’re like me and just want to look polished with as little effort as possible, the Airstrait is a no-brainer. As long as you love poker-straight hair.

Black Friday may have come and gone for another year, but Cyber Monday is now in full swing— and the beauty deals are just as stellar as expected. As a Shopping Editor who has covered the last four Black Friday sales, I know a good beauty deal when I see one—and how to suss out what really isn't worth the money (even with a seemingly good discount).

No one can resist a bargain, but my biggest rule when it comes to shopping the sales is to avoid any needless overconsumption. The best deals to be had are on items that you already use and love, or purchases that you have been eyeing up for a while—the worst thing to do is add countless products to your basket just because they're reduced. That's why I've spent time scouring a selection of the best Cyber Monday beauty deals to narrow down the products our expert Editors swear by, and to help you avoid any wasteful impulse purchasing.

From LookFantastic's Black Friday offers to Black Friday perfume deals, below are the items that myself and our beauty team highly recommend—even without a discount. And I'll be keeping this page up to date with fresh deals as they come in, so stay tuned.

Cyber Monday beauty deals: Quick shopping links

• LookFantastic: Get 30% off almost everything, plus an extra 5%
• Amazon: Shop beauty deals on tech, skincare, makeup and more
• Boots: Discounts on thousands of fragrances, gift sets and more
• Cult Beauty: Enjoy Cyber Monday savings of 25% off
• Sephora: Get 30% off in Sephora's savings
• FaceTheFuture: Save up to 60% on top rated skincare
• The Perfume Shop: Up to 50% off timeless designer fragrances

Shop Black Friday weekend beauty deals

As a Fashion Editor, it's fair to say that I have amassed far more than my fair share of clothes, shoes, jewellery and accessories over the years. So, as tempting as the annual Black Friday and Cyber Monday fashion deals may be, I try to avoid them as much as possible.

Firstly, because my wardrobe is quite literally bursting at the seams—and secondly, because I have a bad habit of getting overexcited by discounts and end up buying things I really don't need. Instead, I try to follow a "buy less, buy better" ethos throughout the year, and limit myself to a few key cult buys to keep my wardrobe looking fresh each season.

That said, there is one specific fashion category that I always keep an eye on during the Black Friday sales, because it's (almost) always worth the investment. That is: designer handbags.

When chosen and cared-for carefully, the best designer handbags are pieces that can truly last a lifetime, and in some cases, even appreciate in value over the years. They're also genuinely practical (micro styles aside), will get endless use, and can add a certain elevated polish to even the simplest of looks—not to mention being something of a status symbol nowadays.

We all know that prices have soared in recent years, however, rendering luxury arm candy something of a pipe dream for most fashion lovers. But the Black Friday weekend sales make them that little bit more accessible, with luxury retailers like Mytheresa, Net-A-Porter and Farfetch offering discounts of up to 50% on some of the hottest designs of the moment, from brands including Chloé, Jacquemus, Balenciaga, Loewe, Toteme and The Row.

The trick to securing the best designer handbag deals during the Black Friday period? Go in prepared. Make sure you've saved your favourite styles to your digital wishlists, so you can shop them the second the discounts (hopefully) hit—and keep an eye out for flash sales and further price cuts throughout the event for an even better deal.

Best Retailers for Cyber Monday Designer Handbag Deals: Quick Shopping Links

• Best for wide variety: Mytheresa, up to 50% off
• Best for cult styles: Net-A-Porter, up to 65% off
• Best for surprise flash sales: Luisa Via Roma, up to 40% off
• Best for big discounts: SSENSE, up to 60% off
• Best for pre-loved luxury bags: Vestiaire Collective, up to 80% off
• Best for iconic bags: Farfetch, up to 70% off
• Best for vintage designer bags: 1st Dibs, up to 70% off

For 2025, the Black Friday sales officially kicked off on Friday 28th November, running all the way through the weekend and into Cyber Monday, which is today, 1st December. A little known fact is that while Black Friday tends to get all the attention, there are even better deals to be had on Cyber Monday, as retailers such as Net-A-Porter and Farfetch offer extra discounts on their sale items at checkout.

Below, the best Cyber Monday designer handbag deals that are still online and ready to shop now.

Cyber Monday 2025: The Best Designer Handbag Deals

Under £250

Under £500

Under £1,000

Under £2,000

Ultra-Luxury Bag Deals

As a Shopping Editor who has written about countless Black Friday and Cyber Monday beauty deals over the years, I pride myself on knowing a truly unmissable discount when I see one. Although there are very few retailers who don't take part in the sales period, there's one shopping destination in particular that delivers impressive discounts for the entire month, including on luxury fragrances and cult skincare—LookFantastic.

Black Friday itself may now be over, but the deals are just as good for Cyber Monday today. The beauty of LookFantastic is that you can find almost every bestselling brand on the site, and enjoy free delivery on orders over £25. And right now, you can expect 30% off almost everything, plus an extra 5% off at checkout. Easily the home to some of the best Black Friday beauty deals, there's plenty of bargains to be had.

However, although the sales can be very tempting, my number one rule is to never buy anything for the sake of it. I only invest in products I know I will use day in, day out to avoid any unnecessary beauty waste. But with so many new products and brands on offer, narrowing down just what you need isn't always easy. That's why I've carefully compiled the very best LookFantastic products on sale that our expert beauty team swear by below.

LookFantastic Black Friday: Quick shopping links

• Best shampoo: OUAI Detox Shampoo, £19.60 (save 30%)
• Best hand wash: Aesop Reverence Aromatique Hand Wash, £23.10 (save 30%)
• Best eye cream: Beauty of Joseon Revive Eye Serum, £10.50 (save 30%)
• Best foundation: Estée Lauder Double Wear, £25.65 (save 35%)
• Best moisturiser: CeraVe Moisturising Lotion, £12.25 (save 30%)
• Best primer: Yves Saint Laurent Touche Éclat, £25.20 (save 30%)
• Browse all beauty offers

Shop LookFantastic Cyber Monday deals

Although it's no longer officially Black Friday, the fashion deals 2025 are still underway. But with Cyber Monday now upon us, most sales will be wrapping up today. However, if there's one thing I want to make clear, it's that the best bargains to be had are on items that are high quality, long-lasting, and will fill a crucial hole in your wardrobe.

It's very easy to get caught up in the mania of the sales, but the mantra of buying less and buying better is always at the front of my mind. Rather than adding as much as possible to my basket for the lowest price I can find, I like to look for savings on items that will remain in my capsule wardrobe for years to come. That's why I've scoured the very best fashion sites to pick out exactly what is worth spending money on, to save you (and myself) from panic buying.

From capsule footwear to trend-led winter coats, everything in this carefully considered guide will stand the test of time in your wardrobe—and comes at a great price point too.

Black Friday fashion deals: Quick shopping links

• ME+EM: Shop the archive up to 50% off
• Massimo Dutti: Save up to 40% on capsule wardrobe buys
• LuisaViaRoma: Get up to 60% off designer brands
• Mytheresa: Discounts on Prada, Chloé, Victoria Beckham + more
• Rixo: 25% off everything until tonight
• Rise&Fall: 20% off everything on site, including cashmere
• Reformation: Get 25% off everything and free shipping over £100
• Strathberry: 25% off celeb favourite luxury leather bags
• Monica Vinader: Site-wide sale on investment jewellery
• Massimo Dutti: Up to 50% off on statement pieces

Black Friday outerwear deals

Black Friday accessories deals

Black Friday knitwear deals

Black Friday tailoring deals

Black Friday trousers and skirts deals

Black Friday footwear deals

Black Friday dress deals

Black Friday menswear deals

Do clothing stores do Black Friday sales?

Yes, the majority of clothing retailers tend to run some sort of Black Friday sale. Last year, high street favourites such as H&M, Zara, Cos and Massimo Dutti ran impressive discounts, whilst high-end department stores including Selfridges and Harvey Nichols also offered huge savings on designer items. We're expecting similar deals for 2025, so stay tuned.

Does Zara have Black Friday deals?

Yes, Zara typically runs a Black Friday sale. Last year, the brand offered discounts of over 70% across clothing and accessories. However, items often sell out quickly.

What is actually worth it on Black Friday?

What is worth buying on Black Friday is entirely subjective—the best investments are items that you genuinely need and know you will get endless wear out of for years to come. As a Shopping Editor who has written about Black Friday sales for years, I find that it is best to shop for high quality items that may be slightly out of your budget usually, but will stand the test of time.

It all started when I decided to get acrylics in Louisiana. That's a sentence I didn't think I'd ever write, and while nothing worthy of a Cormac McCarthy novel occurred during my time in the Deep South, irrevocable damage was done to my nail beds, and that, my friends, is something worth crying about.

You see, for the first time, but certainly not the last, a nail technician removed my gel manicure with a drill, whittling down my nails till they were more flat than sphere-like. While some removed them properly, using the soak-off method, the damage was done: I was getting gels and nail art applied nearly every other week, and what I was left with underneath was thin, brittle and peeling nails, which were incapable of growing without breaking off.

"Nail damage from gel manicures typically occurs when the nails are not properly prepped or the gel is applied or removed incorrectly," replies celebrity and session manicurist, Sophia Stylianou, when I speak to her about the sorry state of my talons. "Over-buffing the natural nail, using low-quality products, or picking at the gel can all weaken the nails over time."

She adds that it's essential to do your research beforehand to ensure your manicurist is prioritising nail health. "Always check that your manicurist is fully qualified, professionally trained, and uses high-quality products," she explains. "A good manicurist always prioritises hygiene by sanitising their tools, uses high-quality products, and never applies gel to nails with contraindications, such as damage or infection. They also never rush the removal and respect your choices. However, when gels are professionally applied and removed by a trained manicurist with high-quality products, there's no reason you can't wear them back-to-back without causing damage."

I quit getting my nails done cold turkey around six months ago, and while I expected it to be a quick fix, it's taken a surprising amount of time to get my nails back to their former glory, and I have quite some way to go. I've been using a range of nail strengtheners like Mavala Scientifique K+ Nail Hardener and O.P.I's excellent cuticle oil, which have stopped breakage in its tracks, but I found that I was missing having something on my nails, even if it wasn't gel. I figured it was time to return to good, old-fashioned polish.

Still, there's nothing old-fashioned about Manucurist's Active Smooth All-In-One Care Polish range, which has just launched three new shade extensions. Marketed as a CC cream or make-up for nails, these polishes come in a range of neutral, skin-like colours, and aim to smooth ridges, blur imperfections and even out the surface of the nail. This seemed like the solution to many of my woes—a sheer, glowy veil of colour to make me feel "polished" enough for every day... And no trips to the salon.

But what really sealed the deal for me was the fact that this collection is essentially like skincare for your nails. With up to 75.5 per cent plant-based ingredients, it's packed with active ingredients like castor fibres, hexanal, AHAs, and vitamin E for long-lasting, strengthened nails. As it turns out, Manucurist founder, Gaëlle Lebrat Personnaz, created the range for people like me, who are struggling with their nail quality.

"I wanted to create a hybrid polish—half treatment, half makeup effect, that works like a CC cream for the nails," she tells Marie Claire UK. " I saw firsthand how traditional gels were damaging nails. Many of our customers came to us after experiencing breakage, brittleness or allergies from aggressive salon techniques. That’s why we created gentle, high-performance alternatives. Active Smooth is the perfect in-between when you’re giving your nails a break or building them back up."

I've been using the Active Smooth range for a few weeks now, and I have to say that I love it. It perfectly bridges the gap for those who are on their nail health journey, but who still like them to look "pretty". I'm partial to the Active Glow in Grape, which is a lilac, or the Active Glow in Cranberry, which is more of a coral and suffuses my nails with a pinky sheen. And when I want something a bit more reminiscent of the trending Soap Manicure look, I'll opt for something skin coloured like the Active Smooth 01 or 02, which are two nude-y tones that make my hands look lovely and lengthened. There are also two new shades for darker skin tones.

Crucially, though, I feel like I'm doing something good for my fingernails when I wear these. It's now been nearly six months since I started using them, and my nails are feeling much stronger and are growing beautifully. Plus, I haven't noticed any new noticed any peeling or breakage. Who knows, maybe I'll be able to brave gel again one day (with a reputable technician, of course), but in the meantime, these are bridging the gap beautifully.

The deals in this article were last checked and updated on 01/12/2025.

Do you ever get put off by something because you’ve heard too many rave reviews and start to wonder if it’s just overly hyped? I am guilty of this, and, surprisingly, that’s how I felt about the Trinny London range... Spoiler alert: I shouldn't have been so sceptical.

When I was asked to review the products, I was intrigued to see what all the fuss was about, and now, after just a few days, I have to admit that they are gorgeous and totally worth all the fanfare. I tried out some of the bestselling skincare and make-up from the range, and I have fallen hard for everything I’ve tested. I’m now one of those people who will openly gush about the collection, and I’ve listed some of my favourites below.

Before I get started, it’s worth giving you a little background on the brand. Trinny London was created by Trinny Woodall back in 2017. She had a goal to create a range for people of all ages, so they could look, and most importantly, feel their best.

The brand expanded rapidly and now covers skincare—including some of the best face serums and eye creams—as well as make-up. You can also find your perfect shade match online with a handy Match2Me online tool, which asks some simple questions about your natural colouring to find the product for you.

As I mentioned, I'm a convert to the brand, so, read on for my top recommendations below...

Best Trinny London products

1. Trinny London Just Joyous High Shine Lipstick in 'Charlotte'

I’m a big fan of high-shine lipsticks, and this one has a gorgeous glossy finish to it that lasts for hours. I tested the 'Charlotte' shade, which is a warm brown-meets-rose shade that is wonderfully wearable for every day—the sheen adds a glam spin that makes it a winner for after-hours too. It’s packed full of hyaluronic acid to moisturise lips while you wear it, and it does feel silky soft and smooth, minus any stickiness. I’ve stashed it in my handbag and have been wearing it on repeat.

2. Trinny London Plump Up Peptide HA Serum

I have long been a fan of the L'Oréal Paris 1.5% Hyaluronic Acid Revitalift Filler Serum and didn’t think I’d find another product to match it, but this one impressed me. The sheer gel texture glides over skin easily, and the impressive line-up of ingredients, which includes hyaluronic acid, collagen and elastin is designed to target fine lines, firm up skin and add plumpness to cheeks. I love how quickly it absorbs and the fact that it leaves my face looking bright and feeling silky smooth—it’s a treat to use before my makeup in the morning. On a side note, I love the pink twist-up tube packaging.

3. Trinny London BFF SPF 30 Cream

This is up there with my favourites from the range. The silky SPF starts as a white cream, but as you blend it into the skin, it cleverly transforms into a wearable tint that works well to blur away pores and brighten. It’s great as a complexion pick-me-up before my foundation or to wear as it is on makeup-free days. It has a lovely glowy finish to it and leaves my skin looking happy with minimal effort.

4. Trinny London Take Back Time Eye Cream

I’m quite particular with my eye creams, and it’s a stage of my skincare regime that I never skip. This one has fast become my go-to, as it has a lovely calming formula that makes me look well-rested even if I'm lacking beauty sleep. It comes with quite a hefty price tag compared to other eye products I've used, but you only need a small amount to blend under and around the eyes, so a tub will last a while. Plus, it comes with a teeny metal spoon that helps to scoop just the right amount out.

5. Trinny London The Elevator

In all honesty, I’d never really considered a neck cream, but after using this for a few days, I can see the benefits. This luxurious serum is packed full of peptides and is designed to target loose and sagging skin as well as any roughness and pigmentation. A few pumps are enough to cover my neck and decolletage, and it swipes over my skin easily and blends without any stickiness. It brightens and softens beautifully, and although I haven’t been using it long enough to see if it will firm up my neck, I’m impressed with how it has left my skin looking and feeling so far. I’ve been using it before bed, but it’ll be a nice quick fix for my chest and shoulders when wearing a sundress during the summer months, too.

6. Trinny London Eye 2 Eye in 'Virtue'

I’m a little bit lazy when it comes to my eye make-up, and much prefer a speedy wash of colour over a tricky winged eyeliner or a powder look. This gorgeous cream colour is a winner because I can use my fingertips to simply swipe it over my eyelids, and its job is done. I tried the 'Virtue' shade, which is a very soft and barely-there peachy tone with a lovely shimmery sheen.

7. Trinny London BFF Serum Eye Concealer

Multi-tasking products are always a good idea, and this double-duty hero combines a hydrating serum with lightweight camouflage to pep up tired eyes in one go. The squeezy tube comes with a cool metal tip that feels lovely and cool on the skin, and the concealer itself is velvety smooth and blends easily to tackle dark circles. I love how well it disguises a late night, and the coverage lasts all day without any fade.

When it comes to Christmas gifting, beauty shopping can feel completely overwhelming. With more perfume gift sets, festive candles and limited-edition eyeshadow palettes you could throw a candy cane at, where on earth are you supposed to start?

This had me thinking: is there such a thing as a 'bad' beauty gift? I wanted to get the insight of my beauty editor friends, who are the most knowledgable people in the 'biz. They've tried it all and are aware what's good, what investment beauty products are worth asking for around this time of year and what products are worth steering clear of.

As a disclaimer, as beauty editors we are incredibly lucky to be able to try lots of the best products out there, and I know I speak for everyone below when I say we are so grateful for that and love this part of our job. But, like with anything, sometimes we notice a little beauty fatigue creeping in when it comes to certain products or things that we just don't need. That said, everybody has different wants and needs (particularly at Christmas) so take this all with a sort of tongue-in-cheek pinch of salt...

1. Rebecca Fearn, Freelance Beauty Editor & Features Writer

"As someone who is currently travelling a lot, things I don't need are bigger, bulky items or products like fragrances or candles. When I'm at home, I love getting stuff like this because it feels special, but it's just not super convenient for me currently due to living out of a suitcase!

That said, I have had my eye on this little set from Chanel. The make-up bag would be perfect for carrying my products around as I hop from flight to flight, while the bronzer, lipstick and mascara featured are all items I would have in my kit so I'd love to receive."

Becky's top gift wish

2. Olivia McCrea-Hedley, Freelance Writer & Editor

"This Christmas, I really, truly need no more shower gels. It's such a lovely thought, buying someone a luxury shower foam or oil to upgrade their morning routine, but my bathroom is beginning to look like the body wash section of Boots. There's only so much soap a girl can use!

"Instead, I'd love nothing more than a candle in my stocking. It doesn't have to be super fancy, or expensive, or even scented—as the nights get darker and the urge to stay in grows stronger, I just love nothing more than lighting a candle or two to create a cosy atmosphere as I settle down on the sofa. It's the perfect gift!"

Olivia's top gift wish

3. Zeynab Mohamed, Freelance Beauty Journalist

"As a beauty editor, I’m totally spoilt when it comes to bodycare, and funnily enough it’s one category I wouldn’t want to be gifted because I’m so particular about it. I want my bodycare to be hardworking rather than just coming in pretty packaging. Plus, especially when it comes to scented bodycare, I want something that complements the scents that I already have."

4. Madeleine Spencer, Podcaster and Beauty & Wellness Writer at The Evening Standard

"I don’t want anything novelty. Nothing tiny, nothing silly, nothing that’ll create unnecessary waste. Give me a normal-sized, good quality candle over three minis any day. And I don’t ever want any excess packaging—just the product in all its solo glory."

Madeleine's top gift wish

5. Humeara Mohamed, Freelance Beauty Journalist

"Please never buy me a scented hand cream for Christmas. For some reason – probably because I use hand cream religiously – I always find a festive iteration in my stocking. Alas, I do not want mint choc chip-scented hand cream, and I certainly don't want any holly-jolly cream's scent to ever overpower my perfume. Such is the curse of fun, holiday-themed mitt moisturisers, which only serve to irritate my eczema-prone skin. It's Aveeno or nothing for me, always. Bah humbug."

Humeara's top gift wish

6. Mica Rickets, Freelance Beauty Editor

"Buying a beauty gift for a beauty editor is always a bold move so, if any of my lovely friends and family are reading this, please step away from the make-up palettes! While I used to covet many a 30-pan eyeshadow palette, these days I'm all about a more minimalist approach to my beauty routine.

"Instead, I'd love something like a Merit Solo Shadow which comes in an array of wearable, neutral shades and has a beautiful cream to powder texture. At £26 a pop, it isn't something that I'd typically buy myself but I already get so much use out of the one I own, and the luxe pots that they come in definitely feel like a special treat."

Mica's top gift wish

7. Mollie Burdell, Freelance Beauty Editor & Presenter

"I'm actually going to be bold and start by saying I don't need anymore beauty products full stop. Yes, a massive perk of our jobs is the countless products we get to try, but I only have one face and body and I'll hold my hands up and say I'm at capacity. I've actually even started putting products on the wall outside my flat for everyone on my street to enjoy–just call me beauty's answer to a fairy godmother.

"At 7 months pregnant, what I'd welcome with open arms is more of my go-to Wild Nutrition Pregnancy + New Mother Multi and Pregnancy + New Mother Omega 3 supplements which I've used throughout my entire pregnancy. I actually have a cupboard full of supplements from the brand as I've done the research and they really do come out on top. Aveeno Baby also has some really cute gift sets, so it would be great to start the baby off strong with a beauty collection of their own."

Mollie's top gift wish

8. Aleesha Badkar, Digital Beauty Editor at Woman & Home

"Apart from beauty minis in any form (my poor toiletry bags are drowning in them—plus who needs that much single-use plastic?), if there were any beauty gift that I wouldn't want to receive for Christmas, I'd have to say lipstick. Don't get me wrong, I love a lipstick. Cream, satin, matte, liquid, I am truly in a fully-committed, longterm relationship with the stuff (although a tinted lip balm can have me straying every now and then). But therein lies the problem, I don't think anyone could buy me anything that would surprise me.

"As the reluctantly-labelled 'Lipstick Queen' of my friendship group, who at one point had a pretty devoted 'Lipstick of the Day' following, I've tried it all. From browns to pinks, reds to purples, cool-toned and warm-toned, I own more lipsticks than even suit me anymore. Alas, there's always something new to try, and I just can't seem to kick my addiction. So, while I say don't buy me even one more, I'm sure I'll find a place for it if you just happen to come across 'the perfect nudey-pinky-mauve' for my Secret Santa..."

Aleesha's top gift wish

9. Lucy Abbersteen, Freelance Beauty Editor and Copywriter

"Unless your recipient paints and repaints their own nails regularly, I'd avoid a big nail polish gift set. It seems like a lovely idea, but realistically the recipient probably won't like every single shade and they'll definitely dry out before they get to use them up.

"If you know their signature colour, and if budget allows, get it from a luxe brand like Chanel that they might not usually shop from. Or if they're a regular gel manicure getter, like me, a voucher for their go-to salon will always get used!"

Lucy's top gift wish

Lancôme mascaras are the stuff of legend in the beauty industry: this is a statement that's barely hyperbole. Every single one just seems to create the most beautifully defined, sculpted lashes in their own way—and over my years as a beauty editor I have found that Lancôme Hypnôse Mascara always outperforms the others.

Hypnôse offers something special and different compared to the rest of its fellow Lancôme mascaras (and all of the other 'best' mascaras in general, for that matter). The product has long been a cult beauty investment, and for good reason. After years of wearing it personally, I wanted to explain just why it's so brilliant, and explore the different ways you can enjoy it—especially while it's 20% off in the Black Friday beauty sales.

There are several reasons why I – along with most other beauty editors and make-up artists – adore the Lancôme Hypnôse Mascara. Firstly, I truly believe Lancôme does some of the absolute best mascaras in the market; every formula I have tried has performed exceptionally. But there's something so special about Hypnôse.

Let's look into the brush to begin with. A dainty, compact brush with fine bristles, the design of the wand allows for easy application, as you can reach the root of every lash. There's nothing worse than a mascara that takes tons of work to get right, and this is the antidote.

Then let's move on to the formula—this is a super-glossy black mascara that goes on beautifully and doesn't feel drying or clumpy. The product actually contains ProVitamin B5, which means not only do lashes look seriously lengthened, they also feel nice and nourished. You don't get that dry, cakey feeling when you remove it at the end of the day.

The effects of this are, in my opinion, unrivalled. For such minimal effort, you get lengthened, voluminous lashes in a single sweep. I look for a lengthening lift when I test a mascara because my lashes lack that definition, and this does it all. It also has great longevity, and still manages to look natural, making it ideal for daytime. That said, another great feature about this is how buildable it is; you can layer it on for more volume and drama, and don't have to worry about it looking thick or clumpy.

What are the other iterations of Lancôme Hypnôse Mascara?

To be honest, I love the original so much, I honestly think once you try it you won't feel the need to look elsewhere. However, this is a product so popular, it inspired an entire line of Hypnôse iterations, and they all do something a little different.

For example, for windy winter days when you're eyes might be prone to watering, you can invest in the waterproof version, which brings all the benefits of the original but with a truly budge-proof finish.

If you're someone who likes more drama, I'd opt for the Hypnôse Drama Instant Extreme Volume Mascara. This has a curved S-shape wand for more precise application, and it offers a ton more volume.

Then there's the Hypnôse Doll Eyes Mascara, which is another bestseller. The brush has a coned shape, and this allows for more of a fanned-out, wide-eye look, if that's your thing.

Whichever you choose, I guarantee you'll be happy with your lashes. This is one of those products that's just totally beauty-editor approved, and I for one will always have some version of it in my make-up collection.

Sometimes, the best kind of confidence is the understated kind—and this is particularly true when it comes to quiet perfumes. The best perfumes aren't always the ones that are so intense that they cling to you, often it's the scents that catch you by surprise as you unexpectedly get a whiff throughout the day.

These are what I like to call quiet perfumes – the sort that deliver an understated, low-maintenance sort of chicness – and my collection has become full of them.

Don't get me wrong, for the right occasion, I love a deeply rich and intense fragrance, be it an oud, a woody offering or a potent floral like jasmine, but it's easy to catch perfume burn-out if you wear these too often. Quiet scents are perfect for cleansing the palette and starting over thanks to their lightweight nature.

From Jo Malone London, Phlur, Glossier and more, here are my favourite options that stand their ground, but never have to shout too loud.

1. Phlur Lost Cause

Many of Phlur's bestselling scents have that quiet confidence, be it the brand's viral Missing Person skin scent, or a greener, more aquatic-feeling elixir such as Lost Cause. First attracted to the perfume because of its tongue-in-cheek name, I was quickly hooked by the refreshing lightness of its smell, achieved by using notes of green leaves, dew drop and ambergris.

2. Chanel N°5 L’EAU

One of Chanel's lighter scents, this is the perfect quiet way to wear the iconic No. 5. It's a lot more citrus-based than the original with lemon, mandarin, bergamot and lime, but also feels blue and featherlight with hints of aldehydes, giving it a notable freshness.

3. Merit Retrospect

A new favourite of mine, Merit Retrospect has definitely grown on me. Upon first sniff, you are hit with a wall of pear, which can feel a little overwhelming if fruity scents aren't your usual go-to. But when this dries down, it is a lot less loud and becomes more powdery, with what smells like vanilla and musk in there to offer a grounding influence.

4. Creed Silver Mountain Water

Many of Creed's scents are unabashedly loud and proud, but this lightweight citrus is a touch more quiet, if you ask me. It feels ultra-refreshing thanks to the zesty notes in there, but is given depth with musk, sandalwood and petitgrain.

5. Jo Malone London Wood Sage & Sea Salt

This is my favourite Jo Malone London cologne to layer, as it's confident and distinguished enough to wear alone, but also beautifully subtle meaning it can complement most other scents and bring out the best in them. As its name suggests, it's super salty and fresh, reminding you of brisk days at the seaside.

6. Glossier You

Glossier's now-famous skin scent is powdery, pretty and so, so comforting. It's honestly like a hug in a bottle, offering a cosy, quiet vibe that has become universally loved. To smell it is to love it.

7. Maison Margiela Replica Sailing Day 

Maison Margiela's Replica scents are designed to evoke specific emotions and memories, so picture this: a peaceful, quiet, wholesome day upon a sail boat that glides across smooth water. This is exactly what Sailing Day inspires—that feeling of calm.

8. Jones Road Fragrance in Shower 

You actually really don't hear enough about the Jones Road perfume, but I think you should. It's that perfect aldehydes scent: like fresh laundry combined with salty sea foam. The effect is a refreshing, quiet, understated one that'll have you spritzing all day long.

9. Loewe Agua Drop

This is such an interesting scent that combines the fresh, slightly aromatic notes of bergamot and orange blossom with a deeper, richer layer of leather. The result is something quite unique, which smells incredible but does so without having to shout about it.

10. Escentric Molecules Molecule 01 

No matter what happens, this will always be in my top five all-time favourite fragrances. It's so understated that you often can't even smell it on yourself, but to others, it's perfect. I can smell a clean glass of gin on the rocks, sat at a quiet bar.

11. Ouai North Bondi 

All of Ouai's fragrances have a super crisp, fresh personality that contribute to its chic aesthetic. North Bondi is slightly zesty and fruity, but also very fresh and a little aromatic.

When I think of legendary skincare products, I can't help but go straight to La Mer Moisturising Cream. The product is perhaps the best known face cream to ever exist, and it dates back to the 1960s, making it a historic one too.

My first memory of the cream is from 2015, when I was an intern at a well-known newspaper and was asked to call a sample in to review. It was my first beauty sample that I got to take home and keep - it that always stuck with me. Over the years, I've always returned to it for varying reasons; here's why I think it's worth the hype (and the money).

La Mer has one of those famed beauty histories that centres around creator Max Huber, who developed the cream after experiencing burns on his face from a lab explosion (for context, he was an aerospace physicist). Huber used sea kelp from San Diego to form the product's famed 'miracle broth'. It did however take him an incredible 12 years to create the cream we have come to know and love.

The company was later sold to Estée Lauder in the '90s, and continued to grow in popularity, gaining celebrity fans such as Jennifer Lopez and Nicole Kidman. As well as its key ingredient (the aforementioned miracle broth), the formula also contains vitamin E, glycerin and sesame seed oil. Its benefits include deep nourishment, protection of the moisture barrier, the ability to firm and lift, and its healing properties.

The original Moisturising Cream is known for its ultra-rich texture, which can feel a little heavy when you first experience it. However, there's a knack here and application is key. Instead of putting it straight on, you need to warm the product within your fingers, which in turn transforms it into more of a clear, spreadable lotion.

This is a product more suited to dry skin types, though. For those with oily-combination skin, this may feel a little intense or even greasy. That said, I tend to sit on the oilier side, and always have a pot of this on my shelf. That's because I truly vouch for its healing properties, which come in so handy whenever I experience sensitivity or dryness. While most creams irritate my skin further when I go through these periods, La Mer actively soothes, calms and moisturises.

Take for example my recent retinol purge; my skin needed an occlusive moisturiser to re-invigorate my moisture barrier, while also tending to the flaky, sore areas. This was one of the only things that did the trick, and hence why I will always be loyal to it.

For those who love to glow, the cream can definitely work all-over, however. Because of its texture, it makes skin look gorgeously plumped and hydrated, making it perfect for priming before make-up.

If you do however find it to be a little heavy, there are a number of other iterations in La Mer's range worth trying. I love the Soft Cream, which has a lighter texture but still feels comforting, as well as the Fresh Cream, which is specifically designed for oilier skin and is more like a traditional gel moisturiser. Whichever you choose, I think this is a brand that has luxury skincare down (and is worth the investment).

Also something to think about is that La Mer offer small travel friendly 15ml pots of all of its creams. This makes a more affordable way to try the cream without investing too much. And right now, as it's Cyber Weekend, you can pick up one of those smaller tubs for £63.75 at Space NK.

Hailey Bieber is committed to a theme. To celebrate turning “a tini bit 28”, the new mum donned a rare all-black outfit and went trouser-free, which isn’t the first time Bieber has styled the daring ‘pantless’ trend—Dua Lipa, Kylie Jenner, and Bella Hadid have also been spotted out sans trousers. The theme in question was, what I can only assume is Bieber’s favourite tipple—martini.

Rarely seen without a manicure, Bieber posted a close-up of her baby blue nails (a sweet but subtle nod to her son, Jack Blues Bieber, perhaps?) dotted with teeny olives. The theme didn’t end there, the party was held at a martini bar (where else?) and included a tower of espresso martinis (very “me, espresso”).

The espresso martini look extended to Bieber’s makeup, she might’ve moved away from her classic buttermilk palette, but the creamy neutrals were on full display elsewhere. Looking glossy as ever, Bieber opted for creamy eye tint with a flick of brown mascara and lashings of shimmery highlighter. To top it off, she wore her newly launched Rhode Beauty Cinnamon Roll Lip Tint. Now, maybe I’m looking too much into this, but I’m pretty sure I glimpsed some of the sweet pastries tucked behind the aforementioned espresso martini tower.

A fun play on the classic LBD, the outfit felt fittingly Y2K and at the risk of sounding like a Bieber conspiracy theorist, is the crystal necklace a nod to Paris Hilton and *that* chainmail dress and choker combo? Clearly, I've spent too much time dissecting this outfit. Here’s how to recreate the full look including Hailey Bieber’s trademark highlighter glow.

The Outfit

The Make-Up

The Party

If, like me, you’ve found yourself obsessed with Chloé’s boho resurgence as of late, you’re most likely on the lookout for all the ways you can channel that carefree, ethereal, cool-girl aesthetic. And, while my budget sadly won’t stretch to my own gown to float around in, I’ve long been tuned into a much more accessible (but equally as exciting) way to live out my Chloé girl fantasy: the best Chloé perfumes.

You see, while Chloé may have single handedly brought boho back into the mainstream on the catwalk, great style isn’t the only thing the house does well—Chloé is well known for creating some of the best perfumes around. Since 1974, when the house was under the helm of Karl Lagerfeld, it's been crafting some of the most unique and delicate scents around, scents which echo Chloé’s cool-girl, bohemian nature, while also smelling incredibly elegant, too. How? All of Chloé’s scents take inspiration from the natural world, championing floral notes alongside expert blends, to create high-fashion fragrances that feel at one with nature.

Plus, these fragrances aren’t just designed to be worn alone. Empowering the idea of self expression through scent, many of Chloé’s perfumes can be layered together, so you can create a fragrance that’s unique to you—and what's cooler than that? And I've got more good news, plenty of the most beautiful Chloé perfumes out there are currently in the Black Friday beauty sales.

So, if you're ready to enter your Chloé-girl era, I’ve rounded up 9 of the best Chloé perfumes which are the perfect place to start. Then, copy me and add the dress (and matching boots) to the top of your Christmas list and hope that Santa pays you a very generous visit...

1. Chloé Eau de Parfum

Chloé’s namesake perfume is the epitome of a fresh floral fragrance. Alongside notes of peony and rose, you’ll also find lily of the valley which lends it an almost soapy quality. If you like scents that smell like freshly-laundered linen drying outside on a bright spring day, you won’t find much better than this.

2. Chloé L’Eau de Parfum Intense

If Chloé is the ultimate fresh, clean scent, then Chloé L’Eau is its more comforting cousin. Opening with a delicate hit of red berries and rose, it quickly dries down into a soft creamy base courtesy of cashmere and cedarwood. This is a fragrance which envelopes in a sense of cosiness, and I find myself feeling instantly calmer whenever I catch the scent of it throughout the day.

3. Chloé Atelier des Fleurs Cedrus Eau de Parfum

If you haven’t come across Chloé’s Atelier des Fleurs collection before, each scent focuses on one key floral note and sets about making it sing. Cedrus is one of their bestselling perfumes from the collection and it’s not hard to tell why: combining mossy green notes with Chloe’s signature freshness it’s a bright take on a woody fragrance.

4. Chloé Nomade Eau de Parfum

Launched in 2018, Nomade is one of Chloé’s more complicated fragrances, blending together zesty citrus notes, with juicy peach and a spicy woody base. I must admit, when I first smelt this one I wasn’t sure about it, feeling it was overly zesty for my taste, however on return, the soft woody notes come through and it’s a great choice if you’re looking for a fragrance that's both uplifting yet grounding in equal measure.

5. Chloé Atelier des Fleurs Orchidee de Minuit

If you asked me to pick my top 10 fragrances of all time, Chloé’s Orchidee de Minuit would be up there. Thick with rum spiced with amber and creamy with vanilla, as well as soft white florals, it’s blends all my favourite notes into one sumptuous fragrance. If you want a scent that smells sexy but not too sweet, this is it.

6. Chloé Love Story Eau de Parfum

Another excellent floral fragrance from Chloé, Love Story is a greener take on the original Chloé scent. Designed to embody Parisian romance, it smells both vibrant and comforting at the same time with a subtle hint of patchouli for a little added drama.

7. Chloé Nomade Nuit D’Egypte Eau de Parfum

Although this sits in the same family as the traditional Nomade scent, I’d argue Nomade Nuit D’Egypte offers a completely different experience. It’s warm and enticing, with notes of cinnamon and vanilla alongside delicate white florals. For me, this is a lovely evening holiday perfume, perfect for spritzing on bronzed, sun-warmed skin.

8. Chloé Naturelle Eau de Parfum

If you’re looking for a subtle take on a rose perfume, I’d definitely recommend giving Naturelle a go. Rather than whacking you over the head with the floral note, it instead creeps in alongside creamy sandalwood and earthy cedarwood to create a really interesting take on the classic scent. If you’ve been burned by sweet gourmand takes on rose, this is the antidote.

9. Chloé Atelier des Fleurs Tuberosa 1974 Eau de Parfum

Inspired by the first perfume Chloé launched back in 1974, Tuberosa 1974, once again displays the house’s love for single floral fragrances. This one is rich with powdery tuberose and heady spices which gives it an almost vintage quality. Even if you don’t like the note traditionally, it’s worth spritzing this for the nostalgia alone.

Over the years, TikTok has quickly cemented itself as one of my go-to hubs for styling inspiration. From everyday styling formulas to must-know Black Friday fashion deals the platform has served me well.

At the risk of sounding overly Gen-Z, I can confirm that my phone is currently flooded with screenshots I have taken of product recommendations and capsule wardrobe pieces that content creators have shared. Many of which now make up a huge part of my wardrobe basics.

As a true magpie for all things expensive-looking, most of these pieces come from three of my failsafe retailers on rotation: Mango, H&M, and COS. Known for their sleek pieces that can be worn repeatedly, it's no surprise why they're an instant hit for those looking to invest in timeless pieces that won't break the bank.

Lucky for me, I have found that my top saved pieces have fortunately fallen into all retailers' Black Friday 2024 sales. This includes the knee-length boots from COS that the style set can't stop wearing and the cosy cardigans from Mango that continue to sell out.

Below, find my top picks to invest in now and wear forever.

Best Black Friday 2024 picks from H&M, Mango, and COS:

This month, myself and fellow beauty editor Katie have dedicated every waking minute to researching, testing, trialling and reviewing the very best beauty gifts for Christmas. Everything from perfume and candles to eyeshadow and hand wash has passed by our desks and been tested scrupulously. As a result, we have a pretty clear idea of the very best new beauty products to gift your loved ones this year.

However, with our Christmas shopping lists already bulking out and Black Friday sales in full swing, we would be lying if we said we haven't been using this time as an excuse to treat ourselves to some treats, too. After all, some beauty products are simply too perfect, too beautiful and too hardworking to part with. So, without further ado, these are the 8 new beauty products that are so good, we're choosing to gift them to ourselves this November.

Shannon's Top New Beauty Gifts

Maison Francis Kurkdjian Trio Of Scented Candles

"The Maison Francis Kurkdjian Christmas candle trio is the launch I get most excited by every single year. I simply detest sweet, candied Christmas candles—I want my festive home fragrance to be luxurious, expensive-smelling and not so powerful that it makes my eyes water. Luckily, I know that I can count of Maison Francis Kurkdjian to deliver on all of the above. Every single candle in this trio is beautiful—and not just to look at. Mon Beau Sapin smells like snow-dusted Christmas trees, Baies des Forêts is reminiscent of juicy mistletoe and Baies des Lunes is one of the most comforting, creamy musk candles I have ever come across. If you want your home to smell expensive this Christmas, this is the product for you." – Shannon Lawlor, Executive Beauty Editor

Tom Ford Soleil Neige

"It's no secret that I'm somewhat of a fragrance connoisseur, so you can believe me when I say that Tom Ford Soleil Neige is the single best perfume for this time of year. It's so good, in fact, that I've had to lie to three friends when they have asked me if I have a bottle on my shelf that they can borrow. I do have a bottle, I just refuse to share it with anyone. Soleil Neige smells like shimmering snow on a sunny winter's day—it is bright, light and icy. If you wear Soleil Neige, expect to be batting of compliments all day long." – Shannon

NARS 24 Karat Collection

"Everyone who knows me will tell you I am not a make-up person. I test it all day, every day for work, so when it comes to my own daily routine, I just can't be bothered with the faff of it all. However, something has stirred in me recently, and I have suddenly found great joy in all things shimmery and pretty—and I think it's down to the new Nars 24 Karat Collection landing on my desk. For the first time in years, I have been allowing myself an extra 20 minutes in the morning to apply a full-face, and it has felt exceptionally good. This eyeshadow is, in my opinion, the star of the show, with the most beautiful, buttery gold effect. However, I have also thoroughly enjoyed using the glow-boosting powders in the Light Reflecting Sculpting Face Palette and swiping on a slick of Explicit Lipstick in Unauthorized—it's the most feel-good red I've encountered in a long time." – Shannon

Victoria Beckham Beauty Hand Cream Collection

"I know what you're thinking: £138 for hand creams?! But these aren't just any hand creams, they're Victoria Beckham hand creams. Yes, they're nourishing and leave hands silky soft without any greasiness, but frankly, the formulas could have been shoddy and I still probably would have found myself adding these to basket. I'm a shallow girl at heart, and these are, hands down, the most beautifully chic beauty products that have landed on my desk, potentially ever. Beyond that, each hand cream comes in one of the iconic Victoria Beckham Beauty fragrances—some of my most cherished. If you don't want to splurge quite so much money, you can also buy the hand creams individually, in your chosen scent, for £38 each. My favourite? Portofino 97 smells like hotel linen, warm sun rays and the gentle breezes of the Italian Riviera." – Shannon

Katie's Top New Beauty Gifts

Neom Christmas Wish 3 Wick Scented Candle

"There are two types of people in this world - those that go hell for leather with all things Christmas from the beginning of December and those that like to dip their toes in on the days that matter. I am the former. One of the ways that I get myself into the spirit is lighting multiple Christmas candles daily, from the end of November. There are a few favourites on my list, but Neom's Christmas Wish takes the top spot. This smells like what I imagine Santa's house smells like - heady, warm and spicy. You've got your classic cinnamon mixed with the zesty mandarin and creaminess of the tonka bean. It's pure festive gold. Not for the festive-averse." – Katie Thomas, Senior Beauty Editor

Dolce & Gabbana My Sculpt Satin Lip Stylo in 25.12 Christmas Day

"I am a huge fan of pomp and circumstance. Especially around Christmas time. I go all out - traditions, formalities and thinking about what I'm going to wear. I spend much of late November planning my festive outfits and make-up looks. There are lists galore and sometimes (please don't judge me too harshly) there are mood boards too. So you can imagine how thrilled I was to find Dolce & Gabbana's new Christmas Day red lipstick drop onto my desk earlier this month. I'll admit the shade surprised me when I first tried it - it wasn't the ruby rouge that I often associate with December festivities, but rather an orangey red. However, I love that it'll bring a modern twist to the day. It has a satin finish - my favourite, my dry lips don't agree with mattes - and I really like the slim bullet, which allows for precise application." – Katie

Westman Atelier Petite Brush Collection

"I will always add something to my Christmas list that I just wouldn't buy for myself. Something that feels special, that often has a high price point. This year Westman Atelier's Petit Brush Collection is that special addition. I am yet to find product this brand launches that isn't 100% a bit of me. Open up my make-up bag and it features heavily. I've used some of the make-up brushes before, but the whole set? That's one truly spoiling gift that I would love to open up on the big day." – Katie

Trudon The Scented Hand Soaps

"I'm in the midst of a renovation - the builders say they'll be done by Christmas, but it's too soon to tell if that's the truth. I am so looking forward to getting my home back and to start putting the final touches in place. We'll have a brand new kitchen and a brightly decorated downstairs loo. They deserve more than supermarket own-brand hand soap. Which is why in January, once the dust has settled, I want to be placing one of the new Trudon Scented Hand Soap next to each of my two new sinks. These are pure luxury - they're so beautifully scented (as you would expect) in the brand's iconic fresh woody scent, Vixi, and the zesty green Médie. The glass bottles are sure to elevate even the dingiest of sinks." – Katie

Some fragrances stand the test of time. Icons of yesteryear include classic perfumes such as Miss Dior and Chanel No 5, while the current era is perhaps more defined by the likes of modern classics—most notably, Marc Jacobs Daisy. Still one of my personal favourites to this day, Daisy reminds me of youthful ease and nostalgic joy. Here's why I still believe it's just as relevant in 2024—particularly this weekend, when you can buy it for significantly less in the Black Friday beauty sales.

Why is Marc Jacobs Daisy so popular?

Ever since it first launched way back in 2007, Daisy has had clear appeal. It is still, to this day, Marc Jacobs' bestselling fragrance, created in collaboration with perfumer Alberto Morillas.

Not only is the smell irresistible (more on that later), Daisy has a notable aura centred around youth and a whimsical nature. Its iconic bottle, for example, is defined by that daisy-laden lid, which has become synonymous with the fashion label as a whole.

Daisy has also had some of the coolest women front its campaigns, including Kaia Gerber. You may remember that 'Daisy, Daisy, Daisy...' advert, which felt almost dream-like, set to a backdrop of clear blue skies and green fields.

As well as campaign stars, celebrities such as Selena Gomez have been rumoured to wear the fragrance as part of their rotating personal favourites collection.

The name of the scent is also, of course, surrounded by style. Jacobs has apparently always been a fan of Daisy Buchanan of The Great Gatsby, which helped to inspire the identity of the perfume.

What does Daisy smell like?

As someone who's not a fan of overly sweet scents, I always surprise myself with how much I love Marc Jacobs Daisy. As mentioned, it has a youthful quality, with fruity notes of strawberry, blood grapefruit and violet leaf that offer up an instant hit of sweetness.

However, the sparkling, slightly zesty scent isn't sickly; this is perhaps thanks to the complementary violet, gardenia and jasmine that sit at the middle, as well as the smoother, creamier base notes of vanilla, musk and white woods.

It sits within the 'white florals' category most obviously, but it's also somewhat powdery, a little citrusy, and a touch aquatic.

Wearing Daisy reminds me of my youth; it was one of the first 'grown up' scents I ever received, and it reminds me of life when things were a lot simpler and less serious. It has a distinct dazzling quality which makes it feels supremely special.

Other iterations of Marc Jacobs Daisy

Since first launching in 2007, it's actually been relatively difficult to keep up with the many, many iterations of this classic—each as beautiful as the last

My favourites include 'Eau So Intense,' which takes the form of a parfum, rather than an eau de toilette, and amplifies the notes in this scent for deeper wear. 'Daisy Love' is a somewhat prettier, fruitier way to enjoy Daisy, with notes of cloudberry undercut by cashmere and musk at the base.

For a fresher twist on Daisy, you could opt for 'Daisy Wild,' which boasts banana flower and macadamia among its unique notes. Alternatively, 'Daisy Dream' is another gorgeous option; it features fruity blackberry, pear and grapefruit that offer an instant zest, before the dry down delivers more grounding notes of musk and white wood.

As a beauty editor, I think it’s practically built into my DNA that when I come across a beauty product I really love, I can’t help but shout about it. Often you’ll find me Whatsapping my friends the minute I step out of the shower or while I hastily slather on my skincare, so impressed by a product that I can’t contain myself ad must tell people immediately.

What I’ve often found however is that it’s new launches that take precedence and products that I’ve relied upon and loved for years - classic beauty products if you will - that often fall to the wayside, not worthy of such a fanfare simply because we already know and trust them. Well, I’m on a mission to turn that around and I’m starting with one of my absolute favourite moisturisers: Elemis Pro-Collagen Marine Cream.

What’s so great about Elemis Pro-Collagen Marine Cream?

You’ve probably already heard of Elemis Pro-Collagen Marine Cream, after all it’s been beloved by many for over 20 years and is regularly spotted on the shelves of skincare obsessives and celebrities alike, however, if you’re new to it or simply haven’t tried it before allow me to introduce you.

Launched back in 2003, Elemis Pro-Collagen Marine Cream is described as a gel-like moisturiser which delivers 24 hours of hydration while also tackling fine lines and wrinkles. To do this, it’s packed with marine and plant actives, including marine algae, which help the skin lock in and retain moisture, boost collagen production and fight environmental aggressors which can lead to signs of skin ageing, all while feeling incredibly lightweight on the skin - making it one of the best moisturisers for mature skin.

So, now you know what it is, you may be wondering what it’s like to use Elemis Pro-Collagen Marine Cream and why I’d rate it as one of the best Elemis products to date. Well, let me talk you through how I use it as part of my morning skincare routine.

My honest review

While Elemis has a whole Pro-Collagen range, including its famous cleansing balms, toners and serums, that can be used alongside the Marine Cream, what I love most about this formula is that it easily incorporates into an existing skincare routine too. After cleansing, I like to apply whatever serum I’m using at the moment (currently Biossance’s Squalane and Copper Peptide Serum) following with the Pro-Collagen Marine Cream.

For me, what makes it extra special, alongside the plethora of hardworking ingredients, is its texture. Silky smooth, it slips easily across the skin before settling into an almost velvety finish. On its website, Elemis describes the Marine Cream as the perfect base for make-up and you can totally see why. It leaves skin looking plump and hydrated but not shiny or wet like some gel formulas do. As someone whose skin often gets oily throughout the day this is a big plus for me.

As to how my skin looks, I’d definitely agree that the hydrating element can be felt almost as soon as the moisturizer sinks into the skin. There’s no tightness or dryness, yet at the same time my skin doesn’t feel greasy either. What it does do however is make my complexion look plump and radiant and overall healthier.

I would say, if you’re looking for a cream to tackle fine lines, while it will help marginally, there are other formulas that are better equipped - I'm a huge fan of Caudalie's Resveratrol Lift range for this. If you’re looking for great, easy to wear moisturiser that will soothe and hydrate skin however, this is it.

And, while the original formula is definitely my favourite and the one I'd recommend if you've got oily skin, like me, Elemis does have other options of their marine cream available. From the ultra-rich formula for dry skin to their rose and SPF offerings (ideal if you don't want to use separate sun protection and moisturiser), you can choose the best option for you depending on your needs. Shop them all below...

Other Elemis Marine Cream Options

You've probably seen these boots all over your FYP over the last few weeks. They became a viral sensation with a 2,000+ waitlist of fashion-loving fans. Yes, we're talking about THOSE Dune suede boots.

They caused quite the commotion at MC HQ too, with several team members setting alarms and signing up for waitlists to get their hands on a pair. Few things shake the Marie Claire offices quite like a cult-favourite pair of shoes—especially if they're on sale.

Thankfully, the Dune Black Friday 2024 sale—arguably one of the best Black Friday Fashion deals this year—is on, and even better yet, the boots are in stock!

Known for its ankle and knee-high boot iterations for extra comfort and style, the retailer has been, without a doubt, releasing some of the best suede pieces in the market.

This season, Dune has officially released its Black Friday offerings—both on-site and in-store. With several shoe styles being discounted at up to 50% off, now is a great time to invest in a pair of boots if you, like me, have been eyeing their styles for a while.

Several of their ankle and knee-high pieces are currently discounted, with the most popular being the 50% off 'Obriele; suede heeled boot style with a wooden heel. These shoes have been so popular that we currently have two team members wearing them pretty much daily.

Aside from the 'Obriele ' boots, their classic knee-high suede boot, the 'Slink,' caused quite a commotion in the office. Three team members bought them (for now) and a couple of other team members will be getting their hands on them throughout the sale.

So, as avid fans of the style, we are masterful experts in all there is to know about Dune's boot styles. Luckily for you, we have rounded up our top Dune Black Friday 2024 deals regardless of shoe style, material, or colourway. We got you covered.

Shop Dune Black Friday 2024 deals:

Shop our picks

Maybe it’s Reformation’s vintage-inspired aesthetic and super-wearable designs, maybe it’s the LA brand’s commitment to minimising its environmental impact, whatever it is, celebrities can’t get enough, and right now there are more reasons to shop than ever—everything at Reformation is 25% off.

Of course, that’s no reason to start adding to cart with wild abandon, Cyber Monday is about shopping smarter, not harder. That’s one reason I’ve rounded up five brand classics that’ll never go out of style (the other is purely self-serving—of course, I bought what I wanted before sharing).

5 Reformation classics currently on sale

• Clara Cashmere Crew Cardigan - now £148 was £198
• Olina Silk Pant - now £148 was £198
• Veda Bennett Oversized Leather Bomber- now £493.50 was £658
• Jadey Cashmere Oversized V-neck Sweater (as seen on Taylor Swift) - now £223 was £298
• Wiley Knit Top - now £58 was £78

It’s not just timeless wardrobe staples that Reformation is loved for, the brand has become a go-to for weddings and party season and the new holiday collection has arrived just in time, too. Think sumptuous silk slip dresses, cashmere knits, and tailoring that looks like it should be double the price. You’ll also find seasonal sparkle and Ref classics, like the Jennifer Aniston-approved Kourtney dress.

Reformation prides itself on its sustainability credentials—the brand has shared a Sustainability Report since 2016—so this is the only time of the year that the brand offers a site-wide discount.

Emily Ratajkowski wearing Reformation Nylah boots (£336 down from £448)

Gigi Hadid wearing Reformation Agathea loafers (£201 down from £268)

Kaia Gerber wearing Reformation Mason trousers (£133.50 down from £178)

Jennifer Aniston wearing Reformation Kourtney dress (£223.50 down from £298)

Anya Taylor-Joy wearing Reformation Natasha pumps

Dakota Johnson wearing Reformation Nadira dress (£223.50 down from £298)

Kristen Bell wearing Reformation Tagliatelle dress (£171 down from £228)

If A-list celebrities and royals have anything in common, it’s their unwavering devotion to iconic handbags. Timeless, elegant and meticulously crafted, there’s one failsafe brand the fashion set returns to time and time again: Strathberry.

Celebrated for its minimalist silhouettes and contemporary, clean-lined designs, the Scottish label has earned cult status over the past decade—especially with Kate Middleton who has been spied carrying a number of Strathberry styles.

The exceptional leatherwork and handcrafted quality have made the brand one of the most well-loved amongst the royals as well as other celebrities, include Katie Holmes, Kelly Rutherford, Pamela Anderson, Nicky Hilton and, of course, Meghan Markle. And because they're so popular they rarely go on sale, making this Black Friday markdown particularly noteworthy.

Right now, the Strathberry Black Friday sale offers up to 30% off some of the brand’s most-loved bags—including the Melody Tote, Lana Midi Bucket, Georgia Mini, and the Mosaic Bag, a favourite of Kate Middleton.

So if you’re looking for a wise handbag investment, or searching for the perfect Christmas present, there are few better opportunities than this one.

Below, I’ve rounded up the best Strathberry sale pieces to make your shopping that much easier. You’re welcome.

Shop the Strathberry Black Friday Sale Now

My daily make-up bag is minimal to say the least, but I have a few non-negotiables which always help me feel pulled together at the start of the day. A decent concealer to cover blemishes and dark circles and an eyebrow pencil to polish up my often unkempt brows are crucial but, most importantly, a brightening blusher is essential to reawaken my tired skin. Generally speaking, cream blushers are my weapon of choice—although there are some brilliant powder formulations available these days too—however over the last few months there’s been one in particular that I’ve had exclusively on rotation. Enter: Merit Flush Balm.

In my opinion, Merit is one of the most exciting make-up brands to launch in the last couple of years and I’m yet to try a product from the lineup that I haven’t enjoyed using. Merit products are the perfect blend of looking and feeling luxurious, yet having wearable finishes and brightening textures that make them ideal for everyday wear and easy application. And the Flush Balm is no exception.

Upon cracking open a new pot of the shade Stockholm—a fresh, vibrant pink colour—I realised that I can probably count on one hand the amount of blushers that I’ve ever totally finished. So the fact that I’m now onto my second one really is testament to how good I think this is. But what exactly makes it stand out from the crowd for me?

My honest review of the Merit Flush Balm

First impressions

Nice packaging is no use if the product inside is rubbish, but let’s just take a moment for the design of the Merit Flush Balms. Firstly, I love how cute and compact the design is. It’s lightweight enough to chuck into your handbag, and the gold base makes it look really chic when you whip it out for touch-ups. There’s something incredibly tactile about the way it fits into the palm of your hand too and it’s really comfortable to use—just scribble it directly onto your cheeks, like the grown-up equivalent of a chubby crayon. In terms of application, the dome shape is really innovative too. It seems like a small detail but actually it means that the product glides over cheeks to deliver the perfect swatch of colour that can then be easily blended out using your fingertips.

The texture and finish

It feels silly to point out that a cream blush is, well, creamy, but the Merit Flush Balm is just that. It’s really creamy—almost balm-like, in fact. As someone with oily skin I am always slightly concerned about whether cream products will last well on my skin, but while this texture definitely has some slip and sheen to it, I want to stress that it doesn’t feel oily at all. In fact, it has a beautiful natural radiance to it which is so brightening and illuminating on the skin that it’s basically made my favourite liquid highlighter redundant since I’ve been using it. If you want a natural dewy flush of colour on your cheeks to make you look glowy and healthy then I can’t recommend it enough.

The staying power

Okay, so this is probably Merit Flush Balm’s only downfall—it definitely isn’t the most longwearing blusher that I’ve ever tried. If you have drier skin then likely you’ll enjoy more longevity from this product, but all of the things that make this product so beautiful (it’s radiance and dewy texture) naturally mean that it doesn’t have the best staying power. It doesn’t look bad as it fades though—it wears off naturally and evenly, and means that you can reapply it without your skin ending up looking cakey or heavy.

Personally, I am more than happy to apply this in the morning, top it up around lunchtime and then reapply it towards the end of the day if I have plans later on. It’s so effortless to apply and easy to use that it really is no effort at all for the results that it gives. Of course, using a setting powder or setting spray would also help to bolster its wear—but I’m far too lazy for that.

The shades

The Merit Flush Balm shades are one of the biggest draws for me—there are nine beautiful colours to choose from in a great spectrum of hues for all skin tones. There are soft berries, punchy pinks, tawny neturals and vibrant reds. And while Stockholm is my absolute daily essential, I'm sharing a few of my other favourite shades below.

1. Merit Flush Balm in Stockholm

2. Merit Flush Balm in Beverly Hills

3. Merit Flush Balm in Rouge

4. Merit Flush Balm in Persimmon

5. Merit Flush Balm in Raspberry Beret

For a product to still be dubbed a beauty staple over 30 years after its launch, you know it’s got to be good. Such is the case with YSL’s Touche Éclat: ask any beauty editor, make-up artist or make-up fan in general and you’d be hard pressed to find someone who hasn’t tried it, if not loved it, at some point over the years.

My personal love affair with the illuminating pen started back in college when I remember dipping into my student loan to treat myself to my first Touche Éclat and a bright red Rouge Pur Couture Lipstick. These days, as a committed nude lip lover, I don’t reach for bright lipsticks quite so often, however Touche Éclat is still in my makeup rotation proving its enduring beauty credentials.

What’s so good about the YSL Touche Éclat Illuminating Pen?

To discuss what’s so good about Touche Éclat, first it’s worth getting into the details about what it actually is. You see, many mistake the clickable pen for a concealer, hastily applying it on dark circles and blemishes and becoming disappointed when they don’t completely disappear. For this however, you need the YSL Touche Éclat High Coverage Concealer which offers the radiant finish we know and love with the high powered coverage you'd expect.

Instead, what the original Touche Éclat is, is an illuminating pen, designed to brighten the skin without shimmer or glitter. For this reason, it should be applied to the areas where the sun naturally hits the face, like the cheekbones, cupid's bow, eyebrow arch and the nose to highlight and brighten for a natural, radiant looking complexion. Plus, it’s also infused with hydrating vitamin E to nourish the skin as it brightens so you get double the duty in one product.

My honest review

As I mentioned earlier, I've been using Touche Éclat for many years and over that time I've found a few things, which in my opion, make it deserving of a place in your make-up bag. Firstly, one thing that instantly sets Touche Éclat apart from other liquid illuminators is its applicator. This is one of my favourite things about the product as the clickable pen makes it incredibly user friendly whether you're a beauty novice or more experienced. After applying my foundation and concealer, I like to use 1-2 clicks, sweeping it across my cheekbones and down the centre of my nose. I then use a separate brush (usually the Real Techniques Expert Concealer Brush) to blend it into my skin for a seamless finish. While I wouldn't use the brush for blending alone, what is does allow is for precise application (no messy pipettes here) meaning you can apply the illuminator directly where you want it with minimal fuss - a big plus for me.

Alongside being incredibly easy to use, I'll also argue the formula of Touche Éclat is unrivalled. Unlike traditional liquid highlighters which focus on golden, bronze or pearl tones, Touche Éclat comes in 14 skin tone inspired shades. This means rather than an obvious shimmer, the finish is incredibly natural making it ideal for someone, like me, who prefers a low-maintenance look yet doesn’t want to compromise on radiance. I’d describe wearing Touche Éclat as showing off your skin on its best day. Think dewiness, rather than glimmer. Yes, the finish is soft, so if you're after serious glow this won't be the highlighter for you, however if you're looking for something that gives that lit from within radiance, I'll argue you'd be hard pressed to find better.

Bring up the best VIEVE products in conversation with a group of beauty journalists and you are pretty much guaranteed to hear the phrase “Skin Nova” within seconds. It has a reputation among those in the know for being one of the best primers around—so suffice to say expectations were high for the brand’s first foray into foundation, the Skin Nova Complexion Balm.

Founded by make-up artist and content creator Jamie Genevieve in 2020, VIEVE has rolled out everything from gorgeous blushers and bronzers to excellent make-up brushes in the years since. I’m also really into the brand aesthetic, which taps into our collective love of ‘90s grunge with a sprinkling of modern day chic, if you like.

Last year Jamie finally launched her own VIEVE mascara, so it was high time the brand ticked off foundation, too—enter, Skin Nova Complexion Balm. Here’s my full, detailed review of said foundation, complete with pics so you can see its results.

Packaging might not be as important as the formula inside, but it does do some heavy lifting in terms of your first impressions of a product. On that front, VIEVE Complexion Balm is housed in a squeezy, translucent tube, so there’s no guesswork around how much product you’re using up. This also makes for easier control over the application.

There are 20 shades on offer, ranging from 100 to 440, which the brand describes as flexible. While I can’t speak from firsthand experience as to how flexible the darker shades are, looking at the full range there doesn't appear to be quite as many deep options as there are for lighter skin tones, so it would be good to see some more shades rolled out in future. I've worn both 120 and 130, but the former is my closest match at this time of year.

I’ll admit that, to me, the name balm ostensibly sounded like this would be a fairly rich product and potentially better suited to dry skin than my oil-slicked-by-3pm complexion. But this formula has the nicest lightweight buttery texture that feels neither too heavy nor too thick. I will say it smells ever so slightly unusual, but this is only detectable while you’re applying it; this doesn’t hang around once your base has settled. The medium coverage is nice and buildable, giving my skin the kind of healthy look that's like I've managed to get way more sleep than I probably have.

As for the wear, I have oily skin and found that a very slight wash of setting powder in particularly oily areas was a good approach without removing too much of the radiant finish. But either w-y, the medium coverage lasts well through the day with its natural, healthy looking finish—something that a bit of the best setting spray helped supercharge.

As a beauty editor, a telling moment in how much you like any given make-up product is whether or not you return to using it after the initial testing period—and I have indeed found myself reaching for the Skin Nova Complexion Balm by choice. It's played well with any other make-up I've used alongside it so far and is a lovely everyday foundation if you want to look like you’re having a particularly great skin day—think glowy, not shiny. If that sounds like your kind of vibe I think you'll love it.

Other Vieve products currently on sale

There's no doubt: YSL Libre is probably one of the most popular perfumes of our time. In 2024, it's not often you come across a designer fragrance that still feels cool and exclusive—but Yves Saint Lauren Libre does is expertly.

After seeing it pop up on my TikTok feed more than a handful of times in recent months, I wanted to get to the bottom of the hype and give it a go myself. Sure, it is housed in a chic bottle and appeals to all of the cool fashion girls, but can the fragrance itself really be as good as people imply? And I figured I can't be the only person wondering this. While YSL Libre does have somewhat of a luxury price tag, with Black Friday perfume deals delivering, Libre just got a whole lot more affordable—and after wearing it, I can confirm it is one of the best beauty purchases you can make this week. Trust me, this is what makes YSL Libre one of the best perfumes out there...

Why is YSL Libre so popular?

What exactly gives YSL Libre its chic factor? Of course, there's the fact it truly does smell exceptional (it is one of the most universally appealing perfumes in existence, but more on that later), but it's also about the overall aesthetic.

The gorgeous soft glass bottle, angled black lid and golden YSL branding across the front make it the perfect addition to any dressing table or fragrance shelf. It stands out in its understated elegance that feels timeless yet modern, all at once.

As well as these superficial factors, the scent itself is also of note. The somewhat sweet floral perfume is famed for its long-lasting nature, and I can attest to its longevity. There's nothing worse than forking out for a new designer perfume, only to find it fades on skin within an hour. This really delivers on that front, making it a great investment.

What does YSL Libre smell like?

This is a perfume that breaks free from claims that fashion designer fragrances often smell generic or lack character. It really smells unique in its own way, while still appealing to a mass audience, which is hard to achieve.

At its heart, this scent is a white floral, with notes of orange blossom and jasmine which offer an alluring edge that isn't too sweet. There is also a hint of lavender there, which interestingly sits both at the middle and the top of the fragrance.

However, this is a scent that balances delicate notes with a slightly more intense edge, with Madagascan vanilla, musk and cedar, which ground the perfume from the base. This delivers a fragrance that is balanced and light on the nose, but still mighty powerful.

In short, if there was only one word to describe how this perfume smells, it would be expensive. It's the type of scent you'd run after someone in the street for to learn what they're wearing and who they are. It has that universal appeal, while still feeling exclusive.

What are the other versions of YSL Libre?

YSL Libre has become so popular over the years, it has been expanded into an entire line, offering plenty of iterations no matter what your perfume taste is.

There is plenty to choose from in the collection, but notable mentions have to be given to Libre Flowers & Flames, which offers more of a fresh spicy floral accord. It combines lavender with coconut, lily and palm tree for an exotic twist on the original.

If you prefer something a little richer and deeper, you have two options. Libre Intense adds a hint of orchid to the lavender and vanilla at the centre of the original Libre, while Libre Le Parfum offers the scent at its most intense, with a hint of spicy saffron.

There are plenty of ways to enjoy Libre now, it really just depends on your personal taste.

I only recently discovered that internet forums are full of content debating the sustained allure of the humble Aesop hand wash. So revered is this humble hand wash that some say you can judge one's whole personality based purely on whether they have a bottle of the stuff sat atop the sink. But just why is it so iconic, and is it all talk or should you listen to the hype?

Well, I have my thoughts. But before we get into all of that, I want to alert you all to something very important—Aesop hand washes are currently 30% off in the Black Friday weekend beauty sale at several different retailers. That means you can nab a bottle now for just over £23. Thank me later.

Why is the Aesop hand wash so popular?

The hand washes by Aesop undoubtedly make up a large portion of the brand's origin story as a whole. First launched in 2006 (Resurrection Aromatique) and followed up with a second launch in 2012 (Reverence Aromatique), the two products still contribute toward a sizeable proportion of the brand's sales—and in many spaces, is still very much what the brand is best known for. It has long attempted to move away from its hand wash icon status, re-focusing marketing campaigns on skincare lines and unique fragrance launches, which are now beloved by perfume insiders. But, truthfully, the brand will likely never really escape the folklore of the hand wash, and is that really a bad thing when they're just so good?

So popular are these washes, you can judge the status of a bar or restaurant on whether they stock the stuff in their toilets, and when you visit a mate's house, they may gain instant points from beauty enthusiasts just for having a bottle around. I've even known people to keep the empty bottles once the product is finished, only to replace it with a slightly less spenny hand wash. This, if nothing else, must prove much of Aesop's Resurrection/Reverence Hand Wash appeal is down to image and status, right?

It's hard to deny that the packaging and 'cool' factor the Aussie brand still has don't play a part in their success. That sleek bottles with their convenient pumps and understated colour scheme are just chic to look at, meaning washing your hands becomes not only an essential part of your day, but a stylish one.

But then there's the quality and fragrance of the product itself; users won't hesitate to tell you how luxe the soap feels, with a sudsy formula that lathers well and leaves hands smelling spa-like. This is all true, and an opinion given weight by the ingredients list of the hand washes. There's hydrating lavender, as well as antibacterial mandarin and rosemary in 'Resurrection,' and a botanical blend of vetiver root, bergamot and petitgrain within 'Reverence.'

What's the difference between Reverence and Resurrection hand washes?

Discussion of ingredients leads us into the obvious question: what's actually the difference between the original (Resurrection) and its younger sister (Reverence)? Well, both deliver effective antibacterial cleansing and leave hands feeling hydrated, but there's a difference in texture and botanical oils featured, meaning the scent is somewhat varied between the two—and they both smell exceptionally great and luxurious.

Reverence has more of a 'herbal' scent, making it an earthy and green option, while Resurrection is a typical 'spa-like' option that is perhaps better-known for fans of the product. It is a little more citrusy and fruity, while the former has a touch of smoke and some woodsy notes.

Beyond that, most importantly it is worth noting that Reverence contains exfoliating pumice to give hands a really good cleanse, whereas Resurrection has a smooth, gel-like consistency with a subtle lather that makes it the better option for those with sensitive skin.

Both come in the same packaging with a black pump and neutral label, so visually they look very similar.

A beauty editor's review of Aesop hand wash

I've been using Aesop's hand wash for as long as I can remember, and I do always love having one in my bathroom, firstly for the aesthetic, but also what it 'says' about me as a beauty editor who just loves products. It's one of those things that you're proud to have on show when visitors come, as silly as that may sound to some.

Aesthetics aside, I always enjoy using the product for its smell; as a big scent person, it's important to me to have a hand wash that makes me want to smell my hands constantly after walking away from the sink. I prefer the original Resurrection version as it is a little lighter, with more of a citrus hit.

I like how the product lathers and hands feel effectively cleansed – yet never dried out – after use. As someone who's a big fan of Australian beauty and spends a lot of time in the country (specifically Melbourne, where Aesop hails from), I can't not be a fan, really.

The question remains whether this is really worth £33 though. It is a luxury and I'll be honest, many more affordable options I've tried are just as lovely. But, in saying that, they're just... not Aesop. But for 30% off right now, I'd highly recommend adding one to basket if an Aesop hand wash has been on your wish list for some time.

When Black Friday rolls around, it can be all too easy to bury your head in the sand and pretend that it's not really happening as your algorithm serves you everything from electric toothbrushes to bouclé sofas.

But as well as starting to make a dent in Christmas, Black Friday is also a golden opportunity to self-gift. And if you're a fan of jewellery, the discounts in the build up to the biggest shopping weekend of the year are definitely worth a browse.

While Black Friday hasn't officially started on most websites, aside from Liberty, many e-commerce sites are running a sale, whether it's labelled as "outlet" or otherwise. And with discounts on everything from orb pearl earrings that would compliment a bare neckline to a chain-link bangle that you could clasp around a knitted sleeve, you might want to look sooner rather than later.

See our edit of the best jewellery finds for Black Friday 2025.

Best Jewellery Black Friday 2025 deals:

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When a perfume video goes viral on TikTok, you know it's legit. I mean, let's consider the fact you can't smell through your phone; if someone is making you want a fragrance that badly simply through their words, it's obviously pretty damn good. This is exactly what happened when TikTok user @ohuprettythings stopped a stranger on the street in Paris to discover the scent she was wearing, to be told it was in fact, Narciso Rodriguez Musc Noir Rose.

Speaking to her audience, the self-confessed 'perfume geek' explains that most French women she spoke to were all very much into Narciso Rodriguez perfumes as a brand, many wearing the original For Her scent. With the original video going wildly viral (we're talking millions upon millions of views), it's clear that Narciso Rodriguez perfumes deserve talking about.

While there are plenty of luxury perfumes that have gone viral this year, Narciso Rodriguez perfumes don't sit in the same uber-luxe price bracket as some of the other it-perfumes of our time (like Maison Francis Kurkdjian Baccarat Rouge, for example). Naricso Rodriguez is known best for producing wearable floral perfumes that please almost everyone who comes across them.

And they aren't crazily expensive either—they are far more easily accessible and reasonably priced than the niche fragrances we have seen surge in popularity. And now is the time to shop for perfume. With gifting season upon us (there are loads of great perfume gifts around this year) and Black Friday perfumes deals flooding in this week, it's officially time to put Narciso Rodriguez fragrances on your radar.

For these reasons, I have smelled some of Narciso's most popular, beloved scents and listed which the ones I think you should invest in, particularly now that they're in the Cyber Week sales. You're welcome.

1. Narciso Rodriguez All Of Me

One of the brand's most recent launches, this rose perfume is pretty yet punchy. It has a fruity hit and is sweet like strawberries, and I also sense a touch of marshmallow, too. The bottle is a little more delicate than the brand's others, making it a great addition to your dressing table.

2. Narciso Rodriguez for Her Eau de Parfum

If we're speaking about scents that inherently feel French, this one has to be up there (it was, after all, one of the go-to scents in the aforementioned viral video). It's subtle and pretty, making it very wearable for daytime in my opinion. You can smell the rose and musk, and it's definitely powdery and interestingly a little spicy, too.

3. Narciso Rodriguez For Her Musc Noir

One of my personal favourites, this beautiful scent is musky, powdery and fruity. It has a lovely lightweight quality that feels spring-like, with a floral kick that's pretty but not overly sweet or sickly.

4. Narciso Rodriguez For Her Pure Musc

If lightweight, lowkey fragrances are your thing, I implore you to try Narciso Rodriguez For Her Pure Musc. It is super subtle and neutral, giving it a great daytime feel that is smooth and somewhat creamy. Plus that monochrome bottle? Chic as hell.

5. Narciso Rodriguez For Her Musc Noir Rose

Rose perfume fans, assemble. This combines fruity plum with a little spice in the form of pink pepper, offering a fruity, sweet and intense musky olfactory experience. This was indeed the scent that went viral on TikTok, and for good reason.

6. Narciso Rodriguez For Her Eau de Toilette

While I'd argue many of Narciso's perfumes are subtle and wearable mostly for daytime, this has more of a nighttime edge. It feels deeper with a touch of spice, and despite being a powdery white floral, it's super sexy.

7. Narciso Rodriguez Narciso Ambrée

This is like spring in a bottle but is still perfectly wearable all year round, with frangipani, ylang-ylang and white flowers hitting the spot. It feels a little musky and a touch powdery, but very bright and sparkly at the same time. Plus, I absolutely love the colour of the bottle.

As a beauty editor, my hair is treated to some of the best hair treatments but also goes through its fair share of styling damage from testing all of the best hair styling tools. When my hair is in need of some serious TLC, there's one product I turn to: Philip Kingsley Elasticizer. It turns my dry, drab strands into soft and healthy hair in just one wash. Originally created for Audrey Hepburn without a single reformulation, the deep conditioning hair treatment is a classic beauty product deserving of its iconic status.

Here's everything you need to know about Elasticizer and where to shop for it.

What makes Philip Kingsley's Elasticizer so good?

The Elasticizer is a pre-shampoo hair conditioning mask designed to reduce breakage, making hair softer, shinier and more conditioned.

The inclusion of hydrolysed elastin in the formula strengthens strands by repairing the hair bonds giving them more flexibility. This flexibility is important because it means your hair can stretch without snapping more while doing things like brushing and styling. Castor oil, olive oil and glycerin help to lock in moisture making hair feel instantly softer and less dry.

History of Philip Kingsley Elasticizer

The Elasticizer was created by the late Philip Kingsley, a trichologist who had an incredibly successful 65-year career. Today, his daughter, Anabel Kinglsey, a successful trichologist, carries on the brand's legacy through products and clinics.

Audrey Hepburn and Philip Kingsley worked together from 1974 to 1980 to create the world’s first pre-shampoo hair treatment. It made such a difference to her hair she publicly dubbed it as "miraculous." But it wasn't until two years later that Elasticizer was available to purchase for everyone, not just those clients of the Philip Kingsley Trichological Clinic.

”[Hepburn] was doing a lot of filming and her hair was in terrible condition because of all the styling and colouring they were doing on set," explains Anabel. "So she went to see my father and requested a moisturising treatment that wasn't going to weigh her hair down, as she had quite fine hair. The experimenting began but many of the heavy post-shampoo creams were leaving Hepburn's hair feeling flat. Audrey wanted a product to get her hair in better condition, whilst also giving more body and shine. He went straight to his laboratory in London's East End and formulated Elasticizer just for her."

Apparently she loved it so much that she ordered countless pots of the formula to be sent to her home in Switzerland. The Elasticizer has grown in popularity ever since and is such an iconic product today that one is sold every 30 seconds.

Elasticizer - a beauty editor's review

Before using Philip Kingsley Elasticizer

Before using Elasticizer my hair is generally a bit limp. It looks dry, lifeless and lacks that shine that I always long for. I promise you this hair was heat-styled but since it was so dry it just wasn't holding styles that well.

After using Philip Kingsley Elasticizer

This was after using Elasticizer on damp hair and letting it marinate for a good hour (you don't have to wait that long but I always think the longer the better). I then styled as usual and here's the result. Not only does it look healthier, but it also feels in much better condition; banishing my dry ends.

It's such a fantastic treatment if you've put your hair through its paces and feel like it needs a fast, but effective pick-me-up.

Shop Philip Kingsley Elasticizer

Since it's such a well-loved product, you can get Elasticizer in so many different sizes. There's the regular 150ml size, the 75ml travel size (ideal for summer holidays when hair gets a little neglected) and a huge 1000ml pump bottle, which also comes available in a recyclable pouch, too. There are also limited edition scents like the current lemon and bergamot one.

For me to declare a foundation as truly impressive, it needs to tick a number of boxes. First, it needs to apply effortlessly, blending easily into the skin for a seamless finish. Next, it needs to blur any imperfections without appearing heavy or cakey (it’s for this reason, I’m a lover of blurring foundations as a whole). And lastly, although this one is purely my personal preference, it needs to give my skin a dewy, radiant finish. I want to look like I’ve had my full eight hours sleep and drunk three litres of water that morning, even though the most I’ve probably managed is a hurried ice coffee. And, while I believe there’s a time and place for matte foundations, for me a radiant base is how I achieve this.

So, when a foundation comes along that ticks this stringent criteria, it’s usually something to shout about, and so, allow me to introduce you to my current favourite foundation: Chanel’s Les Beiges Water-Fresh Complexion Touch. Why am I shouting about this right now? Because it just got much more affordable in the Black Friday beauty sales.

What makes Chanel Les Beiges Water-Fresh Complexion Touch so good?

It’s pretty obvious from just appearance alone, that Chanel’s Les Beiges Water-Fresh Complexion Touch isn’t your average foundation. A clear gel infused with ultra-concentrated micro-droplet pigments, it offers a lightweight formula that aims to hydrate the skin while also delivering a sheer veil of coverage. Composed of approximately 60% water as well as antioxidant-rich jasmine extract and hydrating tamarind extract, it not only gives you a seriously flawless base but also soothes and protects the skin to leave your complexion looking fresh, radiant and more even. Now you’re beginning to understand why this is my new holy grail right?

My honest review

I started by applying the foundation onto the back of my hand and this is where you can really see the magic of this product. Rather than combining into a traditional foundation texture, the gel and pigment capsules remain separated until you blend them using your fingers or a foundation brush. While Chanel does provide a brush with the foundation, I chose to go in with my own (the Huda Beauty Base Brush, in case you were wondering) as I’ll be honest, it’s extremely small, and I worried how long it would take me to apply it using the mini tool.

I applied three to four pumps and then swirled them together to combine the particles. I was pleased to see, even when combined, the foundation still retains its ultra-light gel-like consistency making it incredibly easy to apply (remember my criteria from earlier) and also very lightweight on the skin, almost like a skin tint. And, if you were worried the consistency might dilute the pigment, it doesn’t. It applies in a light to medium coverage that’s easily buildable for a flawless finish.

What I love most about this foundation however is how my skin looks and feels when wearing it. Invisible really takes on new meaning with this foundation, it’s so lightweight, I often forget I’m wearing it however when I catch myself in the mirror the radiance delivers. Topped with a little concealer under the eyes, a dusting of loose setting powder and a sweep of cream blusher and I’ve got my perfect everyday make-up look.

We can all agree that lately the weather has been a little unstable; one minute we're enjoying the throes of Autumn and the next we're plunged into deep winter with storms, snow and frost aplenty.

While our wardrobes are having to seriously adjust (hardwearing leather boots and scarves at the ready), our skincare routines may also need to. During the winter, we can feel the effects of the cold air, central heating and the like, which can often lead to dryness and flaking, particularly in those sensitive areas.

What you need is a routine rich in hydrating, nourishing ingredients and gorgeously rich textures. And if there's only one thing you can buy to make the biggest difference, make it a new face cream suitable for this time of year, such as the beloved Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cream.

The ingredients list

As mentioned, this time of year really requires you to up your dosage of super moisturising ingredients that will maintain your skin's natural moisture barrier and thus, protect it from extreme cold. This cream has some of the key essentials.

For example, it boasts olive-derived squalane and glacial glycoprotein to nourish the skin and leave you with a noticeable glow.

Also included are vitamins A and E to flood the skin with nutrients. Then there are pro-ceramides to help restore those essential building blocks in the skin to maintain moisture and elasticity, making it the perfect option for winter.

A beauty editor's review

While the ingredients list is impressive, my favourite thing about the cream is its texture. It's so easy to associate winter face creams with super occlusive, thick formulas, and whilst rich creams do suit some people, this one manages to deeply hydrate and protect the skin, while still feeling super lightweight.

The cream feels almost whipped to the touch, refreshing and sort of water-gel like, but without any stickiness. As someone who has combination skin in the truest sense of the word ("normal" in most places, but oily on the t-zone and dry around certain sensitive areas), I need something that will deliver on moisture, but without feeling heavy on the skin. This is one of those creams that is uniquely able to do this somehow, making it super smart.

I'm not the only one who loves this cream; it's one of Kiehl's very bestsellers, and one of its longest standing hero products, beloved by everyone from beauty editors to make-up artists for creating a gorgeous base for make-up. Speaking of which, I like that this sinks into skin quickly and beautifully, leaving a glowy finish but no residue, so when you apply a layer of SPF on top for day time, it doesn't feel too much. Saying that, this is also suitable and hydrating enough for nighttime, too.

Other Ultra Cream options to know about

Over the years, Kiehl's has found there's been sufficient demand to expand the Ultra Facial Cream line to cater for more skin needs. While I do think the original is super versatile and would work for most skin types, you do have options.

For example, there's the Oil-Free Gel Cream, which is ideal for those with incredibly oily skin, particularly during warmer months when skin needs a little less extra hydration. I really like this one for summer, when my more oily areas need a lighter touch.

There's also the version with an SPF 30, meaning you don't have to buy another sun protectant for over the top. I'd say this makes a great SPF moisturiser in the winter months when the sun isn't at its strongest, but come summer time you will want to beef up that protection with a facial sunscreen.

In a world where luxury skincare products can cost hundreds, sometimes even thousands, I find myself asking: do these high-end products deliver on their promises? I tried La Mer’s new Rejuvenating Night Cream to find out whether its ingredients justify the price tag. Is it a skincare game-changer (and potentially my new best night cream) or just clever marketing?

At £230 for 60ml (which you can currently get for £262.50 in the Space NK sale and there is a smaller jar for less) it's a jaw-dropping investment, but it promises transformative results. At the heart of La Mer's mystique lies the legendary Miracle Broth, a fermented sea kelp concoction that forms the foundation of all of its products. As a long-time believer in the benefits of seaweed, I was intrigued. This night cream takes that signature ingredient and blends in potent antioxidants and nourishing oils designed to work their magic while I sleep.

To understand the science behind seaweed, I spoke with skin expert, Dr Ifeoma Ejikeme. "Ingredients like sea kelp are rich in minerals and antioxidants," she explained. "These components support skin repair and protect against environmental damage."

The Rejuvenating Night Cream also features a marine retinol alternative, promising to speed up rejuvenation and awaken youthful-looking skin, all without the irritation often associated with traditional retinol.

My honest review

The first thing I noticed was the cream's rich, velvety texture. It glides onto my skin easily, with an indulgent feel. Despite its thickness, it absorbs surprisingly well, leaving behind a dewy finish rather than a greasy residue. I love the subtle fragrance but it may not suit everyone; those with sensitive noses or skin might find it off-putting. Additionally, if you’re prone to breakouts, the rich formula could potentially be too heavy, especially in warmer months.

After just one month of using La Mer's Rejuvenating Night Cream, I noticed an improvement in my skin's hydration levels. What impressed me most was how the cream seemed to calm and soothe my skin overnight, even with it's retinol alternative. I now wake up to a complexion that looks well-rested. The redness I often experience around my nose and cheeks has reduced, giving my skin a more even tone overall.

I’m also focusing on my sleep health during this time as quality sleep is crucial for skin regeneration. During deep sleep stages, growth hormone is released, which is essential for collagen production and cell repair.

As I get older, I find that good quality sleep is increasingly important, not just for how I feel but also for what I see in the mirror each morning. While the cream delivered impressive results, it’s essential to remember that skincare is just one piece of the puzzle. Prioritising restful sleep has become a vital part of my routine as well.

Is it worth it?

Is La Mer's Rejuvenating Night Cream worth the splurge? If you're seeking a luxurious night cream that delivers hydration and overall skin improvement and you have the budget for it, then yes. It transforms my nighttime routine into a pampering ritual that feels indulgent. What you're paying for with La Mer is not just the formula but also the experience and brand cachet.

I’ll make no bones about it, there is no denying that the biggest perk of my job as a beauty editor is the amount of incredible products that I get to try. Over a decade into working in this industry, you might think that enjoying access to the most luxurious skincare brands, expensive fragrances and finest make-up might have started to lose its novelty—but you’d be wrong. Truly, I will never not be endlessly grateful to the amazing brands and lovely PR teams who are kind enough to send me products to try, and every single delivery still makes me feel giddy with excitement when I open it.

However, I’ve made no secret of the fact that I’m always unsure how to feel about incredibly expensive beauty products. Because while I’m a beauty junkie at heart, and teenage me wouldn’t believe some of the brands that now reside in my beauty stash, I’m a firm believer that great products should be accessible to everyone. And, as someone who has been dealing with acne since secondary school, I believe even more strongly that efficacious skincare should be affordable.

Luckily, many of my fellow beauty editors and journalists agree. And a quick nose in their personal stashes reveals many a bargainous skincare product that they swear by. Ahead, I asked them to share the very best affordable skincare that they genuinely rate and purchase themselves (the true seal of approval from a beauty editor). Consider this your industry-approved list of the greatest skincare gems—and all for £20 or less.

The best affordable skincare products, as chosen by beauty editors

Jacqueline Kilikita, Beauty Director at Refinery29

Zeynab Mohamed, Freelance Beauty Journalist

Emily Knott, Commerce Publisher and Editor at MailOnline and Metro

Jazzria Harris, Freelance Fashion and Beauty Editor

Ata-Owaji Victor, Freelance Beauty Editor and Journalist

Rebecca Fearn, Freelance Beauty Editor & Features Writer

Lucy Abbersteen, Freelance Beauty Editor & Copywriter

Grace Day, Beauty Editor & Esthetician

Mica Ricketts, Freelance Beauty Editor

I don't make it much of a secret that I think most Cyber Monday beauty sales are naff. I'd be willing to bet money on most of the beauty products that enter Cyber Monday sales being available for cheaper at various other points throughout the year. However, when it comes to fragrance deals, there is one brand I bookmark at this time every year—yes, the Merit Cyber Monday deals are actually worth your attention.

For starters, it is the only sale the brand has all year, meaning you truly can't get your hands on any Merit Beauty products for cheaper at any other time. Beyond that, Merit is genuinely a beauty brand that I use every single day. In fact, most of the products in my daily rotation come courtesy of Merit. The brand produces seriously chic, easy-to-use, seriously effective products—perfect for lazy girls like myself. The thing that really seals the deal for me when it comes to shopping Merit over Cyber Monday, however, is the fact the brand offers blanket discounting across the entire site. Yes: there is 20% off everything on site at Merit right now (and that doesn't include the brand's sets, which have even higher discounts—like the full collection, currently £141.20 cheaper than normal). And that, my friends, means you can bag Merit Retrospect perfume for just £63.20 this week.

• Merit, Retrospect — £63.20 (was £79)

Merit Retrospect has caused somewhat of a storm. Since its launch, the fragrance has become the thing to wear on your neck. It's so good, in fact, that despite being a fragrance-specialist beauty editor who owns hundreds of perfumes and rarely wears the same perfume twice in one month, not a week has passed where I haven't doused myself in Retrospect. The intensely powdery fruity-floral has quickly become my most complimented perfume of the year. It's so good that nine of my closest friends have informed me it's at the top of their Christmas lists this year. So, it's needless to say I have been patiently waiting for Merit's Cyber Monday sale to drop so that I can stock up.

But this morning, when I logged onto the site to add a new bottle of Retrospect to my basket, I found myself distracted. The Merit Cyber Monday deals are so good that despite the fact I only intended to spend £63 on one perfume, my basket is currently sat at over £350. A quick inventory check of my most beloved Merit favourites (seriously, I use at least three Merit products on my face every single day) showed that I would likely be due a restock of the lot in coming weeks—so I figured now was the time to do so.

Trust me, if you're only going to buy into one beauty brand this Cyber Monday Weekend, this is the place to do so. Here are the Merit Cyber Monday deals I'm fully on board with...

Save at Merit

Merit Beauty Sets Deals

I know that some people hate any mention of a certain winter celebration too early in the year, but it’s safe to say that I’m not one of them. And now that November has arrived, the countdown to Christmas feels well and truly underway. For me, the excitement of this time of year lies less in the big day itself and more in the lead-up to it—the work parties, overdue trips to the pub with friends, and more occasions for me to dress up. And along a fancier wardrobe comes the opportunity to have a little more fun with my beauty routine too. After all, while most days call for low-maintenance hairstyles and multipurpose make-up, party season means it’s time to bring out the bright lipsticks, shimmery highlighters, and gravity-defying mascaras.

There is nothing, however, that screams special occasion make-up to me more than a smokey eye—and for me there’s only one product that delivers when it comes to creating the perfect one at home. Enter: Charlotte Tilbury’s Luxury Palette. These instantly-recognisable eyeshadow palettes have to be one of the most iconic Charlotte Tilbury products and, if you’re useless at doing your own eye make-up like I am, make it foolproof to create an ultra-glam eye look. Each one contains four different eyeshadows which have been chosen to align with a four-step system to create the ultimate eye look—prime, enhance, smoke and pop. And with so many shades to choose from, there will be a palette to suit your taste.

How to use the Charlotte Tilbury Luxury Palettes

On the back of every palette is a little diagram of the four shades, they're numbered and each one describes the step of application.

The first step - Prime - should be used all over the eyelid. The second - Enhance - defines the eye and can be used over the Prime shade, with particular focus on the crease. Smoke is the third step and should be blended from the outer corner of the eye upwards into the crease. The key here is to blend and diffuse. The final step is to make the eye Pop. Typically a shimmer/glitter or brighter shade, you should press your finger into the Pop shade and then apply right in the middle of the eyelid.

Of course, these are just a handy guide and each shade can be used however you please.

Not sure where to start? Ahead I review my favourite Charlotte Tilbury Luxury Palettes to help you find your perfect party season eyeshadows.

1. Walk of No Shame Luxury Palette

I love a warm eyeshadow anyway, so this quartet of rosy hues speaks to my soul. If you don’t tend to wear reds and pinks on your eyes then rest assured that this palette has been formulated to suit all eye colours, and I find that it really does make my brown eyes pop. And there’s something undeniably festive about the berry hues too. Personally, I think that the two top shades are great for everyday wear, but adding in the smokier berry colour and the intense sparkle is perfect for elevating the look for a more special occasion feel.

2. The Sophisticate Luxury Palette

While I basically transform into a glitterball for the entirety of party season, I understand that shimmer and sparkle aren’t up everyone’s street. Luckily, this palette is made up entirely of matte eyeshadows so you can create a chic smokey eye for any occasion. I love that while there is no glitter in sight, the use of deep chocolate browns and warm taupes mean that this still can be used to get a really glam, grown-up eye look that looks utterly timeless.

3. The Rebel Luxury Palette

Circa-2005 when I was in my peak emo phase, teenage me wouldn’t have stepped foot outside the house without a smudge of bright green eyeshadow on my lids. As such, I have entirely avoided green eyeshadow in my adult life until a make-up artist told me that it’s one of the best shades for brown eyes—and this palette proves it. A playful set of golds, khakis and dirty greens, this creates an undeniably cool smokey eye look and feels fresh and modern. Plus, if your application method is a little haphazard like mine then that only adds to the worn-in, grungy look. It’s shimmery, colourful and perfect for occasions when you want to make a bit of a statement.

4. The Vintage Vamp Luxury Palette

Of course, all of the Charlotte Tilbury Luxury Palettes have been created to work for all eye colours—and I definitely don’t believe in sticking to so-called beauty rules when it comes to wearing make-up that makes you feel good. But there’s no denying that this quad of berry tones really does make blue eyes pop. The mix of burgundy shades with a hint of gold feels very old school Hollywood and is ideal if you love to create a really classic, feminine smokey eye.

5. The Uptown Girl Luxury Palette

When you think of your traditional smokey eye, this is the eyeshadow palette that you’ll need to create it. A soft, cool-toned collection of eyeshadows, you can create both effortless daytime looks and more amped-up dramatic evening looks with this handy palette. The mix of shimmering greys and creams feel so sophisticated and chic and work with all eye colours and skin tones. If you don’t like shimmer or sheen, though, then I’d avoid this—all of the shades have a pearlescent finish to them which look beautifully reflective on the eyes.

6. Queen of Glow Luxury Palette

This is effectively the palette which will create the ultra-glam, dazzling red carpet eyeshadow look that Charlotte Tilbury herself is known for creating on her celebrity clients. And I have to say that it might just be my favourite luxury palette of them all. It’s warm, golden and creates a glowy, sun-kissed eye look that makes me just feel really bloody good when I’m wearing it. Plus, of all the palettes, I think that I’d probably get most wear out of this one as all of the eyeshadows create quite a statement when worn individually too.

7. Pillow Talk Luxury Palette

Inspired by the best-selling Pillow Talk lipstick, this beautiful collection of nude eyeshadow creates a dusky, pretty eye look that I think everyone would find wearable. Much like the lipstick and lip liner, it’s been created as a universally flattering quartet and can be used to create a tawny day look or a more full glamour sparkly eye.

8. The Rock Chick Luxury Palette

This is the cool-girl palette of the collection—think Kate Moss in the early 00s in a quartet of eyeshadows. The mix of greys and silvers can be applied with a light hand if you want a subtle shimmery look or layered up for a full on grungy eye. It looks absolutely effortless (even if you’ve applied it painstakingly carefully) and looks even better when applied with lashings of mascara.

Any savvy shopper knows there’s no better time to invest in great wardrobe staples than when they’re on offer. Whether you choose to prepare your basket ahead of the end of season sales or keep an eye out for the best deals and discounts (hello, Black Friday deals), choosing to make big purchases during these periods can not only save you money but can also allow you to invest in great quality pieces that may have been out of your budget at full price.

One piece I love to invest in at this time of year, is denim and specifically great quality jeans. After all, they’re an item that you can practically guarantee you’ll reach for time and time again throughout autumn/winter and beyond and, because denim trends tend to be less fast paced than other areas of our wardrobe, you know they’ll last for seasons to come as well.

Thankfully, this Black Friday there are so many great denim pieces already on offer. From Levi’s classic 501’s to shaping styles courtesy of Spanx, you can snap up some of the best jean styles for a fraction of their normal price.

Plus, as more Black Friday fashion deals drop ahead of the big day on the the 29th November, we’ll ensure this list stays updated so keep popping back to see all the best jeans to shop this Black Friday:

Shop the best black Friday jeans offers

There's no feeling quite like finding an incredible discount on an item you know will serve you extremely well, and as a shopping editor, it's my duty to share these findings with you.

There are countless Black Friday fashion deals and Black Friday beauty deals floating around already, but don't let that convince you to spend money on items you don't really need just because they seem like a good deal.

I've spoken with the Marie Claire UK editors to find out exactly what they're planning to purchase this Cyber Monday because no one knows a fantastic investment quite like our expert team. Whether you're in the market for hard-working skincare, cosy outerwear, or even some new tech, these are the items our editors swear by and the deals they will be taking full advantage of.

Cyber Monday Editors' Top Retailers: quick links

• UNIQLO: Discounts across all categories, including outerwear
• BAM: Get 25% off activewear and cosy clothes
• Jones Road: 25% off best-selling beauty kits
• Amazon: Shop Cyber Monday discounts across every category
• Monica Vinader: Enjoy up to 50% off select pieces
• Argos: Save on big tech brands like Dyson and Bose
• Sephora: Get 30% off top beauty brands
• Whistles: Score 20% off everything this Cyber Monday

MC Editors' Top Cyber Monday Picks

When is Black Friday 2024?

Black Friday falls on the 29th of November 2024. However, many retailers have already launched their sales. You can start taking advantage of the discounts now, but you can expect big sales until the beginning of December.

Is Black Friday worth it in the UK?

Although Black Friday is typically a bigger event in the US than the UK, savings in recent years have been brilliant. Most UK retailers are now on board with the sales event, including Cyber Monday, so you can expect big discounts across the board. To make Black Friday worth it for you, you'll want to shop around for the best deals on items on your wishlist and avoid impulse buying just for the sake of it.

Welcome, readers, to my favourite time of the year. We’re in that sweet spot when wearing layers is still a novelty and—as I’ve written before—looking good is as easy as investing in a good coat and a decent pair of shades. November is, as my friend Liam once said, “a month when everyone can look hot”.

Never has this been truer than Emily Ratajkowski sauntering through the streets of New York in a cherry-red Charlotte Simone coat, bare legs, and black boots. Although to be fair, she has an unfair advantage, being an indisputably “hot” person who needn’t rely on a good jacket and sunglasses. Who else could style out a soiled poo bag? For the rest of us, it’s worth taking note of this winning outfit formula, which I have gone to the effort of replicating below.

A very good autumn look

Before, I go any further, some context: I write this from my living room-cum-office where, to my left lies a pile of winter coats stuffed (lovingly) behind the sofa and, crucially, out of sight of my long-suffering boyfriend who has already relinquished much of his wardrobe to my coat collection. I have a gargantuan faux fur coat sploshed with shades of pistachio, violet, and pink, a floor-sweeping fake mink, a zebra swing jacket, plenty of patent trenches, and, most cherished of all, a reversible Afghan coat — one side is pink suede, the other’s orange corduroy. It’s the perfect amount of Penny Lane.

Now, I promise this isn’t just a soliloquy of all the coats I’ve loved and longed for, but I need you to know how it came to be that I agreed to not buy “yet another!” coat.

It was around the time my boyfriend discovered I’d been stashing outerwear in the kitchen (very Carrie Bradshaw tbh), and he dealt me an ultimatum: If I’m to bring a new coat into the house, an old one has to go out.

I recoiled in horror at the thought of turning away one of my beloved winter warmers and yet…I find myself considering making the bargain.

You see, Emily Ratajkowski and her fuzzy Mongolian-fur trimmed coat—which goes on sale November 27th—has unlocked something in me. A desire for not just that coat, but all coats. I’m feeling greedy and frivolous. Do I really want to resign myself to this collection forever? I finally understand when engaged people say they had to ask themselves “really, just him/her? Forever?” I’m not sure I’m ready to make that kind of sartorial commitment.

My eye has been turned and I find myself lusting after another love. Here’s a small sampling of the coats that have me considering Vinted’ing my old trusties in favour of newer models...

7 coats I’m currently obsessed with

The highly anticipated UNIQLO Cyber Monday deals have arrived. From the designer partnerships like UNIQLO x Anya Hindmarch to the brand's wardrobe staples such as the UNIQLO clogs, the Japanese retailer is no stranger to stylish yet affordable basics—so there's no better time to refresh your capsule wardrobe.

As a shopping editor, I spend countless hours scouring through Black Friday and Cyber Monday offers, and this is my third year covering UNIQLO's impressive discounts. What really makes a sale stand out to me isn't just brilliant reductions, but savings on items that are true investments—and not just the left over, overly-trendy stock that will quickly go out of fashion.

UNIQLO not only has incredibly low prices this year, but also has reductions on staple outerwear, reliable basics, and even comfortable footwear that I can see filling a hole in many capsule wardrobes, no matter your personal style. I have had some of my UNIQLO knitwear for years, and it has never failed me.

But the thing to know about the UNIQLO Cyber Monday sale is that items really do fly off the shelves. If you spot something that you know will make a good investment and get plenty of wear, you won't want to wait around to make it yours. But to avoid impulse buying, I've rounded up the items that I really think are worth the price tag and will stand the test of time.

These are the UNIQLO Black Friday fashion deals that aren't to be missed—including pieces from the coveted JW Anderson collaboration.

UNIQLO Cyber Monday: Quick shopping links

• UNIQLO outerwear: Save over 50% on puffers, parkas, trenches + more
• UNIQLO knitwear: Seriously discounted cashmere and wool
• UNIQLO bottoms: Get 50% off chic, staple trousers
• UNIQLO tops: Reduced thermals, jumpers and tees
• Shop all UNIQLO Cyber Monday deals

It's not easy to narrow down the best UNIQLO Cyber Monday deals—there are countless impressive savings on offer. But these are the pieces I think are really worth the investment, including some items our expert team have already snapped up themselves.

UNIQLO Cyber Monday outerwear

UNIQLO Cyber Monday knitwear

UNIQLO Cyber Monday jackets

UNIQLO Cyber Monday bottoms and dresses

When does UNIQLO’s Black Friday sale begin?

UNIQLO's Black Friday sale for 2024 is now in full swing and will most likely be running until the 2nd of December. Unsurprisingly, many of the discounted items are already flying off the shelves, so you won't want to hang around for too long if there are specific items you're hoping to score a discount on.

What kind of discounts can I expect at UNIQLO?

At the moment, UNIQLO is running discounts of 50% and above on outerwear, knitwear, trousers, accessories, and more. Some of the more high-ticket items, like down coats, have a huge 60% saving. No matter what you're shopping for, you can be sure of substantial savings.

When it comes to hair, there's nothing I love more than a bouncy blow dry. Now, I'm a firm believer that you can never beat a salon blow dry, but I'll do my damnedest to try to achieve something like it at home. I've used all manner of hair dryers, curling wands and tongs and hot brushes in the past and whilst some have come very, very close I've never been 100% satisfied with the final result.

Then I discovered the ghd Rise—which has been doing the rounds on TikTok—and haven't stopped using it since. Not only is it nice to use, but it's also a brilliant styler for adding volume and defined curls—something I can't always achieve very well with a regular hot brush, mostly because of my lack of patience.

Curling tongs help to create waves and curls, but I find that they don't give the same bounce or blow out-like longevity as the ghd rise. My hair is straight and fine and I have quite a lot of it so it's fairly easy to manage, but I find it difficult to get volume and curls to last longer than five minutes. That's where this tool excels.

ghd Rise Hot Brush Features

The ghd Rise Hot Brush has a 32mm barrel, smaller than most of my other hot brushes and slightly bigger than my curling tongs. Think of it as the result of a hot brush and curling iron having a baby.

The combination enables me to get a really tight curl, looser ones if I let them drop, and also makes it easy to get right to the root of the hair. It's completely silent too, which is a big win for me as I find the noise of a hair dryer often overstimulating.

It's really lightweight, which is great as so often heated hair tools can ache after a while when you use them. It has nylon bristles that can take a little getting used to begin with to make sure you don't tug at the hairs or get them caught. I also found that I kept turning the styler off by accident, knocking the on/off button as I styled.

ghd Rise Hot Brush results

These are my results after using the ghd Rise and letting the curls drop out to create this wave. It's brilliant for both tight-ish curls and loose waves on my hair type.

I can imagine this working really well on bob hairstyles, too. The brand says it's suitable for all lengths and works for all hair types, but I can't personally attest to that.

If you're looking for a middle ground between curling iron and hot brush that is so silent you can watch your favourite show while you style, this is the one for you. It's definitely made me more willing to style my hair at night when I really can't be bothered but know I'll thank myself the next morning.

One of the most iconic hair dryers in the world, I have used the Dyson Supersonic as my sole hair dryer since I got my hands on one back in 2019. And despite testing so many hair tools and hair dryers for work during that time, I’ve never been tempted to stray from it. However, Shark’s tools—in particular its hair dryers—always receive incredible press and rave reviews from those who use them. So when Shark launched its new SpeedStyle PRO Flex Hair Dryer back in September I was excited to give it a go. I can’t scroll through TikTok without seeing the brand’s buzzy Air Styler being used in a get ready with me video, so I couldn’t wait to try my own Shark tool to see if it would live up to all the hype around the brand.

My honest review of the Shark SpeedStyle PRO Flex Hair Dryer

What makes the Shark SpeedStyle PRO Flex different to other hair dryers?

If you’ve had a hair dryer for a long time, like me, then it’s easy to think that all hair dryers are pretty much the same. Even before my current model, I had a budget-friendly hair dryer that I used for the best part of a decade before it gave up. There are a few key factors that set Shark’s newest model apart from others on the market, as well as its predecessors.

First up, the high velocity air flow which promises fast and easy hair drying. As someone that has always been incredibly low-maintenance when it comes to styling my own hair, and now has two young children to get ready of a morning, anything that promises to cut down my beauty routine is going to be music to my ears. Plus, it has a new foldable handle for easier storage—something which I didn’t think would be much of a selling point, but I was pleasantly surprised at how small and compact this makes the tool.

The brand new Scalp Shield technology, however, has to be the main draw for me. Developed by Shark Beauty engineers, it aims to protect new hair growth from the damage that extreme heat can cause. You simply hold down a button and it adjusts the temperature without compromising on the air flow velocity to make drying your roots and scalp more comfortable, while still being effective. As I’m still dealing with regrowth after some pretty hefty postpartum hair loss, I thought this was a really nice addition.

Finally, the addition of four of Shark’s signature accessories isn’t anything new—this brand are renowned for the quality of their styling extras—but as someone that has recently extended their minimal hair tool collection to include a blow-dry brush I was interested to see how some of these attachments would stack up against it.

The hair dryer

So, onto the hair dryer itself. My first impression was that this hair dryer is insanely lightweight—in fact, it feels almost like a travel hair dryer. It's that light. Once you’ve unfolded the barrel and switched it on, however, it’s clear that this is an incredibly powerful hair tool. My hair is fairly thick, and I have a mix of softer waves and tighter curls which hold a lot of water. Generally, I think that a rough blow dry would take me around ten minutes, but with the Shark SpeedStyle Pro Flex my whole head of hair was dry in around five minutes flat. On this basis alone I was ready to wave goodbye to my current hair dryer because I’m that passionate about saving time on my beauty routine (and also I find drying my hair incredibly boring). Not only that, though, but even just roughly drying my hair without using any of the attachments I felt like my hair was left more smooth and less dishevelled than it usually is after I’ve blasted it with a hair dryer. So, what difference would the attachments make?

The attachments

Just like the hair dryer itself, all of the four attachments are surprisingly lightweight. Here’s a run down of what’s included (pictured clockwise from top left corner):

• Turbo Concentrator: My most-used attachment. This focuses the air through a slim narrow nozzle for fast styling and a sleek finish. After rough drying my hair I tend to attach this to finish off my blow-dry for a soft and smooth results.
• QuickSmooth Brush: This is for creating voluminous, straight hairstyles, and I was excited to try this. It definitely does add volume and I like that I was able to mimic a salon-style finish by pulling the hair quite tightly to add shine and smooth the hair cuticle. However, I did find that the angle of the hairdryer meant it felt a little cumbersome to use so I’m not sure that I’d reach for it over my blow dry brush.
• Frizz Fighter Finishing Tool: The surprise star of the show for me comes via this finishing attachment which smooths flyaways, calms frizz, and gives hair a really high-gloss finish. It uses Coanda airflow technology to attract and smooth hair without heat damage and I’ve found that it really improves the finish of my blow dry and how long it lasts.
• Defrizz Fast Diffuser: I never get on with diffusers because of how slowly they tend to dry hair and, honestly, I don’t love the texture of my hair afterwards. This one features retractable prongs to define curls on all hair lengths and was definitely faster than other diffusers I’ve tried. Plus, it’s so lightweight which made it easy to use so I would be tempted to use this more.

My honest thoughts

Honestly, I really think that this is a brilliant hair dryer and a versatile hair tool which bridges the gap between a basic hair dryer and a more advanced multi-styler. For the price, I think it has an impressive and versatile amount of attachments—all of which deliver on their claims—and the speed and power of the drying cannot be faulted.

For me, the biggest pros are knowing that I’m looking after my scalp and more fragile hair with the Scalp Shield Mode—I didn’t get any of that stingy feeling that I often do when a hot hair dryer gets too close to my scalp—as well as how fast my hair dries using this. I’ve cut my blow dry time in half effectively. The Turbo Concentrator and Frizz Fighter Finishing Tools are great for a basic but smooth and shiny blow dry too. I also love how incredibly lightweight the hair dryer is. My arm never feels achy or tired after using this, and it takes up a small amount of space storing it too.

The downsides for me are purely personal preference. As I’ve mentioned, I’m rubbish at doing my own hair so while I was looking forward to the QuickSmooth Brush attachment, I found it a bit tricky to use and don’t think I’ll get much use out of it personally.

At just under £200 it’s definitely still an investment, but it’s £100 less than my current hair dryer and I definitely won’t be going back to my old one. For the price, I think it offers functionality and versatility for all hair types with options for easy drying and styling depending on your preferences. It’s a winner.

At 32, a beauty editor, and someone who thought they had their skincare routine down, I never expected to go through another acne bout. But alas, being in this industry often means experimenting with ingredients and formulations that may not agree with you, and after a year or so on Tretinoin, I finally decided it was just too strong for me after experiencing months of extreme dryness and breakouts.

On a journey to heal my skin (including that ever-important barrier), I needed to find products to soothe the dryness and treat spots in a gentle way. For the latter, I finally decided to get my hands on a hard-working LED face mask specifically designed for acne-prone skin. This is where my love affair with the Currentbody Anti-Blemish LED Light Therapy Face Mask began. If you're thinking of investing, here's what you need to know from my firsthand experience.

How does the CurrentBody acne LED mask work?

CurrentBody is undeniably an industry-leader in light therapy at-home tools. But the brand is perhaps best known for its LED Light Therapy Face Mask, beloved for its use of red and infrared light to target collagen loss and thus wrinkles and fine lines. However, the device I was trying is one that's specifically designed to treat breakouts instead, using blue light (as well as red).

"With the acne mask, we added a wavelength that is away from anti-ageing," explains CurrentBody Founder, Laurence Newman. "When NASA originally discovered LED light back in the '60s, they discovered multiple wavelengths to treat different things. We maintained the red light in our original mask as studies show red light at 633nm helps calm inflammation and assists healing (often post-breakout scarring is worse than the spots themselves), then we added blue light at 415nm." It's the blue light that's crucial to those who suffer from angry blemishes as it helps to kill the bacteria inside the spots. That combination of red and light means you get a well-rounded treatment.

One of the reasons I decided to opt for this mask is because it was something I could add into my routine that was non-invasive, avoided punchy acids or strong actives that could cause my skin further upset. LED is always going to have a positive effect on the skin, spots or no spots. Newman agrees that part of the appeal comes from the fact "it can easily be used alongside your current routine to improve results."

As it features red light as well, the mask works to "reduce inflammation and increase the treatment’s overall effectiveness, making it beneficial for both inflammatory and non-inflammatory acne lesions." For this reason, it's actually a great all-rounder for most routines.

How often should you use it?

It's important to follow the specific instructions of hi-tech tools such as this one. Newman advises reaching for this three to five times a week. "Though, of course, this does depend on the severity of the acne," he adds.

"We have an in-built ten-minute timer which we have proven in studies to be the optimal treatment time. Consistent use is recommended to help soothe breakouts and reduce future flare-ups."

I have found that consistency really is the key with LED face masks. Regular use is what gets you results - whether you're after a more even, glowier complexion or to tackle spots.

A beauty editor's review

As Newman mentions, the mask has a 10-minute timer feature, meaning there's no need to worry about using it for too little or too long a-time. I really like this, as I combined the ten-minute treatment with a little meditation session; you must either wear the accompanying protective glasses or keep eyes closed, meaning you can't reach for your phone. Because of this, it became an enjoyable part of my evenings.

The mask feels relatively comfortable on, although I didn't find my features to exactly match up with the correct holes very well. The head strap is easy to use and feels fine on the back of the head, while the attached controller simply has one button to turn the device on or off, making it ideal for beginners.

I have of course been taking other steps in my skincare routine to minimise my breakouts, but I do feel this has helped and with consistent use, it will continue to do so. I think it has helped to slightly reduce the appearance of my older, healing spots that are now more scar-like, too.

All-in-all, I think this is a brilliant LED option if acne prevention and treatment is your goal, rather than something anti-ageing. At £299, it's of course an investment, but not one that feels outlandish given its results and longevity.

Black Friday and Cyber Monday beauty deals have landed across the biggest retailers—with some seriously impressive savings up for grabs today.

I'm a shopping editor with several Black Friday weekends under my belt, so I know a truly good deal when I see it. However, it can be overwhelming when every website is plastered with Black Friday offerings, so much so that it's easy to lose sight of what is actually a good discount.

That's why I've compiled beauty deals that I believe are truly worth the investment, from the best hair straighteners to high street perfumes—but only the products that have a significant saving or that I would invest in myself. I'll be keeping this page up to date with all the best Black Friday and Cyber Monday beauty deals today, so stay tuned for the biggest savings of the season.

Best Cyber Monday beauty deals today