fullsizeoutput_1d07

As a not-quite-natural blonde, it’s important for me to keep my hair in as good condition as possible. I’m not going to lie – I pretty much abuse my hair on a daily basis, thanks to a routine which includes daily washes, straightening, and a habit of twirling my ends. Did I mention that I also bleach it? It’s not an ideal situation, and over the past few months, I’ve been trying to baby my poor ends as much as possible. So it felt like perfect timing when Ouai’s Smooth Spray arrived.

fullsizeoutput_1d06

Described as an ultimate way to prep hair pre-styling, the formula might be lightweight, but it’s packed with great-for-hair ingredients. With an amino acid blend, Vitamin E and Hydrolyzed proteins, just mist the Smooth Spray onto damp ends pre-blow dry, and style as usual.

fullsizeoutput_1d05

Unlike some other sprays I’ve tried, Ouai’s doesn’t leave hair feeling weighed down or weirdly sticky. Instead, ends are bouncy and shiny, and they feel wonderfully hydrated. My hair isn’t prone to fuzziness or frizzing when using the Smooth Spray either – it stays straighter and sleeker, with the effect lasting right through until my next wash.

Ouai Smooth Spray is priced at £22 and is available from Panache Cosmetics here

fullsizeoutput_1cf7

When you were younger, did you ever enjoy those gummy cherry sweets which were as sour as they were fruity? Yep, me too. I loved them (still do in fact) so the option to enjoy the same fruity goodness, albeit in far chicer packaging was always going to be a winner for me.

fullsizeoutput_1cf8

I’m not going to lie – I feel like I’ve had a sip of the Glossier (cherry) kool aid. I’m a fan of the no-makeup make looks they promote, and every product I’ve tried from the line has become a regular part of my routine, but the question of did I really need another lip balm was obvious. And the answer? Yes, of course!

fullsizeoutput_1cf9

Cherry Balm Dot Com is the most colourful of the six shades on offer. Straight from the tube, it’s a pink-toned red which gives lips a just bitten look. Like the other Balm Dot Coms I’ve tried out, Cherry doesn’t leave lips shiny or sticky, instead it delivers a hit of moisture, scent and with a hint of the prettiest of pink tint. Obviously it’s not a long-lasting product, but it’s so easy to apply with fingers, it doesn’t really bother me. For me, it’s become the perfect product to add a touch of subtle colour to casual summer beauty looks.

Glossier Balm Dot Com is priced at £10 per tube, and you can find them here.

fullsizeoutput_1ce7

Last month feels like a bit of a blur. Between work and a road-trip down south, there didn’t seem to be a moment to catch my breath (let alone catch up with emails). So, when the chance to enjoy a bit of a stay-cation popped up, I absolutely jumped at the chance!

fullsizeoutput_1cde

The Lane Hotel is one of Edinburgh’s newest  boutique hotels, having been open for only a year.

Tucked up a cherry blossom lined Canaan Lane, it is the brainchild of the same family who run Edinburgh’s oldest family-run pub, The Canneyman’s. But as much as the pub is quirky, The Lane is luxurious.

fullsizeoutput_1ce6

There are currently five stunning bedrooms all found in a Victorian property, with a newly opened serviced apartment, which is perfect if you’re looking to enjoy Edinburgh as a family.

fullsizeoutput_1cd2

Rather excitingly, this summer will see The Lane open a further four bedrooms in the upstairs portion of the Canney Man’s. Not only this, but guests will also be able to enjoy breakfasts in the pub – a truly unique way to start your morning in the capital!

fullsizeoutput_1cd3

When we visited, we stayed in the stunning Prosecco Room, which was an absolute joy of pastel shades and Parisian styling.

fullsizeoutput_1cd6

Looking out over the Canney Man’s gardens. With the window thrown open, it was so lovely to hear the good tempered buzz from the gardens filter through the window, and at night, it was incredibly peaceful. Located in the heart of Morningside, there are so many boutiques and shops to visit, but honestly? We stayed in and enjoyed the comforts of the hotel!

fullsizeoutput_1cdf

Once you’ve checked in, there really isn’t any need to leave the comfort of the Lane Hotel. On the top floor, there is a fabulous little spot for all guests to enjoy.

fullsizeoutput_1ce1

A snacks room! Kitted out with everything you need to beat a midnight craving, it’s an absolutely genius idea!

Kitted out with crisps, biscuits, chocolates and breakfast goodies, there is everything you could possibly need during your stay!

Back in the room, we made copious use of the in-room tea tray – enjoying cups of tea and finally getting round to some reading an general ‘unplugging’. Then, later on in the evening, thanks to the in-room wifi, we loaded up a movie and enjoyed the evening.

fullsizeoutput_1cdbfullsizeoutput_1cd9

Although the morning arrived far too quickly, it was made all the more bearable thanks to a rather swish bathroom! With heated floors, and a rainfall shower – the early start was invigorating, and we got to enjoy the Baylis & Harding amenities.

If you’re looking for a luxury break in the heart of Edinburgh, do take a look at The Lane Hotel. With stunning bedrooms, an unbeatable location and the friendliest of staff – we’re already planning a return visit!

Rooms at The Lane Hotel start from £90 per night, and you can find out more here.

fullsizeoutput_1ccc

So it would appear we’re gearing up for a sunny Bank Holiday Weekend. Across the pond it’s Memorial Day i.e. the start of summer, and in Edinburgh it feels like everyone got the long weekend memo. I’m not going to lie – I am feeling pretty summery myself, so in an effort to celebrate the season I dug out probably my most summer appropriate product – Glossier’s Balm Dot Com in Coconut.

One of six available scents and colours (this one is clear), this is one I reach for on a daily basis. As we’ve come to expect from the brand, the packaging is spot on. The minimalist tube looks chic, as well as being functional. The balm itself is something special – slightly thicker than some of the others, it applies smoothly to lips, and the scent of coconut is fun without feeling overwhelming – it’s more sunscreen and summer than fruit.

On the lips it doesn’t look greasy or shiny, instead it just imparts a subtle glow whilst providing hydration. Since it’s clear, I also use it on cuticles, dry patches and even elbows!

Glossier Balm Dot Com in Coconut is priced at £10 and is available here.

fullsizeoutput_1cbd

When it comes to cutting down on everyday plastics, I don’t think I ever realised how much I tend to use. So, I’ve been trying to lower how many disposables I use on a daily basis. From taking a reusable water bottle when I out and about or heading to the gym, to always having a reusable straw to hand – I’m a big believer of every little helps. So to, are Lush. As part of their 2018 Father’s Day collection, Lush have released their Dirty Springwash as a solid shower gel.

fullsizeoutput_1cbe

Before it arrived in the post, I wondered how a solid shower gel might work. Isn’t it just soap? But happily, it’s much more ‘foamy’ than a regular soap. Under hot running water, I use the sold gel alongside a shower puff, and within a few seconds the shower gel turns into clouds of foam. The gel smells absolutely incredible too – it’s full of menthol and spearmint oil, which are wonderful – especially in the morning! Super fresh, it feels like a great way to start each morning – and the knowledge that I’m cutting down on unnecessary plastics feels super good too!

Lush Naked Dirty Springwash is priced at £9.95 and is available here