Newly launched Night Recovery Cream from Dr Somji Skincare is perfect for Christmas. It’s the perfect treat for your skin while you enjoy a quiet night in, preparing for the Christmas cheer ahead.
Did you know that the best time for skin rejuvenation and regeneration is while we sleep? As the holiday season gets busier, with late nights filled with festive fun and all the classic holiday havoc, it’s easy to forget to pamper our skin. This is exactly why a nurturing nighttime routine is essential to keep us looking and feeling our best.
Packed with powerful ingredients like hyaluronic acid to draw in moisture and squalane to lock it in, this cream boosts your skin’s hydration while you rest. Its unique formula, including encapsulated retinol, Indian gentian extract, and probiotics, works to smooth wrinkles, even out skin tone, and strengthen your skin’s barrier. It supports your skin’s natural repair and regeneration process overnight, helping restore balance and reduce the effects of internal stress.
Think of it as your “sleep in a jar” – a multi-tasking wonder that protects, treats, and restores your skin while you dream. Whether you’re treating yourself or gifting it to a beauty lover, it’s the perfect holiday skincare essential for anyone looking to streamline their nighttime routine with one transformative product.
If you are looking for something a bit different to add to your Christmas drinks cabinet, why not try Choya Umeshu which is a Japanese fruit liqueur made from the ume fruit, a popular fruit in Japan. It is one of the most well known drinks in Japan and is gaining popularity worldwide. Choya Umeshu offers a unique tasting experience reflecting Japanese cultures and traditions. With Umeshu’s strong sweet-sour flavour and fruity aromas, there are a number of ways of serving Choya both hot and cold.
I adore the Choya Ume Salut Sparkling Wine. It is like a plummy champagne. Very rich and full of flavour. It’s a joy to drink and brings sparkle to the day.
Choya Ume Salut Sparkling Wine – A champagne alternative
A crisp and refreshing blend of Italian wine blended with Choya’s exotic sparkling plum wine. A wonderful marriage of Japanese and Italian wines, best enjoyed chilled as an aperitif or with your favourite food.
Choya Umemshu Extra Years can be made with Royal Honey which imparts additional sweetness and a darker vanilla colour which is completely natural. It is perfect enjoyed on the rocks or with soda to release the honey flavour.
50ml Choya Royal Honey | 100ml Choya Sparkling | Soda Water
Add 50ml Choya RoyalHoney in an ice-filled wine glass, add 100ml Choya Sparkling and a dash of Soda Water
If you are looking for the perfect Christmas present then I suggest A Poem For Every Day of Christmas the beautifully illustrated poetry anthology from Sunday Times Bestseller Allie Esiri, it is only £10 and fits under the tree or in a stocking.
Embossed with gold foil and lavishly illustrated, A Poem For Every Day of Christmas is the perfect stocking filler for young and old, featuring 31 Christmas poems to see you through the holiday season. Compiled by Allie Esiri who has edited a series of wonderful poetry anthologies.
Perfect for reading aloud and sharing with all the family, this book is a cosy accompaniment through the holiday season. Delight in festivities with poems from Thomas Hardy, E. E Cummings, Robert Burns and more. The day-to-day format of this anthology invites readers to make poetry a part of the festive season to get you in the Christmas spirit throughout December.
This warm and soulful book is the perfect gift for Christmas. With a little bit of magic to read every day.
Described by The Sunday Times as ‘A poetry powerhouse’, poetry champion Allie Esiri has published ten hugely popular poetry anthologies including A Poem For Every Day Of The Year and 365 Poems For Life as part of her mission to keep poetry alive and make it accessible for everyone.
About Allie Esiri
Allie Esiri’s best-selling poetry anthologies include Shakespeare For Every Day Of The Year, A Poem For Every Day Of The Year and 365 Poems For Life. They have lit an explosion of interest in poetry in the UK, are regularly chosen for National Poetry Day and have been picked as best books of the year by The Observer, The Times and New Statesman. Yearly sell out performances at the National Theatre and major book festivals with some of our best-loved actors reading poetry – from Helena Bonham Carter to Dominic West – are capturing and enthralling a new generation of poetry lovers.
Esiri read Modern and Medieval Languages at the University of Cambridge then worked as an actress for ten years in the English Shakespeare Company and on TV in shows such as Sharpe, Howard’s End, Men Behaving Badly and Poirot, before moving on to create the first poetry apps, daily poetry anthologies (for all ages) and live shows. For more info visit allieesiri.com.
Your bedroom should be more than just a place to sleep—it should feel like a sanctuary, offering relaxation and rest after a busy day. Transforming your bedroom into a luxurious retreat doesn’t require an expensive overhaul. With a few thoughtful adjustments, you can create a stylish and serene space that combines comfort and elegance. From choosing high-quality bedding to enhancing the atmosphere with lighting, paying attention to the details can help you craft a personal haven.
This guide provides practical tips to elevate your bedroom’s design and comfort, helping you create a space that feels like a luxury retreat every day.
Choose High-Quality Bedding
The bed is the centrepiece of any bedroom, and high-quality bedding can significantly improve both its comfort and appearance. Investing in premium materials enhances your sleep and adds a touch of luxury to your space.
A bamboo duvet cover is an excellent choice, known for its softness and breathability. Bamboo fabric is perfect for creating a cosy and inviting bed while being an eco-friendly option. Its natural properties make it a sustainable choice for those looking to incorporate environmentally conscious elements into their home.
Pair the duvet cover with plush pillows and a high-thread-count sheet set for a complete upgrade. To maximise comfort and style, opt for bedding in neutral or soft tones that complement your room’s colour scheme. Adding a throw blanket or decorative cushions can further enhance the look, making your bed the focal point of your retreat.
Opt for a Calming Colour Palette
The colours in your bedroom play a significant role in setting the overall mood. A calming colour palette helps create a relaxing environment, promoting rest and rejuvenation. Soft, neutral tones like beige, grey, or pastels work well, as they evoke a sense of tranquillity.
Consider painting the walls in a muted hue and coordinating your bedding, curtains, and decor to match. For example, pairing light grey walls with white bedding and soft blush accents creates an elegant and cohesive look. If you prefer a splash of personality, incorporate pops of color through decor items like cushions or artwork.
Aim for balance and harmony when choosing colours. Avoid overly bold or bright shades that might feel overwhelming, as the goal is to create a peaceful space that encourages relaxation.
Incorporate Elegant Lighting
Lighting is a key element in creating a luxurious bedroom. The right lighting can enhance the atmosphere, making the space feel warm and inviting. A layered lighting approach works best, combining ambient, task, and accent lighting to achieve a versatile and well-lit room.
Start with a central fixture, such as a chandelier or pendant light, for overall illumination. Add bedside lamps or wall sconces for task lighting, ideal for reading or unwinding in the evening. Accent lighting, such as LED strips or candles, can create a soft and romantic glow.
Opt for warm-toned bulbs to add a cosy feel and avoid harsh white light, which can seem clinical. Dimmable switches are a great addition, allowing you to adjust brightness to suit your mood or activity. Thoughtful lighting choices can transform your bedroom into a sophisticated and relaxing retreat.
Add Texture and Layers
Incorporating textures and layers is an easy way to add depth and warmth to your bedroom. A mix of materials such as velvet, linen, and faux fur can create a cosy and visually interesting space.
Start with a soft area rug underfoot, adding both comfort and a design anchor for the room. Layer your bedding with throws and cushions in contrasting textures—think a silky quilt paired with a chunky knit blanket. Floor-length curtains in rich fabrics like linen or velvet enhance the luxurious feel while also providing privacy and light control.
Balance is essential when layering textures. Focus on creating a cohesive look that ties everything together without overcrowding the space. These thoughtful touches will make your bedroom feel inviting and upscale.
Invest in Stylish and Functional Furniture
The furniture in your bedroom plays a key role in both functionality and style. Choosing pieces that are practical and visually appealing can make a significant difference in creating a luxurious retreat.
An upholstered bed frame or headboard adds elegance and serves as a comfortable backrest. Storage furniture, such as ottomans or bedside tables with drawers, helps keep the room tidy and clutter-free. This contributes to a calm, organised space essential for relaxation.
Look for furniture with clean lines and quality materials like wood or metal to create a timeless and sophisticated aesthetic. Arrange your furniture thoughtfully to maximise space and maintain a balanced layout. Adding a bench at the foot of the bed or a reading nook with a stylish armchair enhances the room’s functionality without compromising its elegance.
Enhance the Senses with Fragrance
Scent is often overlooked in bedroom design, but incorporating pleasant aromas can elevate the overall experience. Calming fragrances like lavender, vanilla, or sandalwood are known for their relaxing properties and can help improve sleep quality.
Essential oil diffusers are an excellent way to fill the room with subtle, long-lasting scents. Alternatively, use candles, incense, or linen sprays to add a fragrant touch to your space. Choose gentle scents that create a soothing environment without overwhelming the room.
Position your chosen fragrance sources strategically, such as placing a diffuser on a nightstand or a scented candle on your dresser. These small additions can make your bedroom feel like a high-end retreat.
Add Personal Touches and Statement Decor
To make your bedroom truly your own, include personal elements and statement decor that reflect your style. Family photos, meaningful artwork, or travel souvenirs can bring individuality to the space while maintaining its luxurious feel.
Statement pieces like an oversized mirror, bold wall art, or a unique lighting fixture can act as focal points. However, balance is key—stick to one or two statement items to avoid overwhelming the room. A cohesive design theme will help maintain a clean and polished look.
By adding these personal and decorative touches, your bedroom becomes not only beautiful but uniquely yours.
In conclusion, transforming your bedroom into a luxurious retreat is all about thoughtful design choices that prioritise comfort and style. Upgrading to high-quality bedding, selecting a calming colour palette, incorporating elegant lighting, and layering textures can create a relaxing and indulgent space.
Stylish furniture, subtle fragrances, and personal touches further enhance the ambiance, turning your bedroom into a sanctuary you’ll love spending time in. With these practical tips, you can achieve a sophisticated and serene bedroom that promotes rest, relaxation, and rejuvenation.
There is nothing quite like a comfortable slipper during Christmas time. We spend so much time at home and comfort is paramount. Simba are a great brand when it comes to sleeping. My bed is made by them and I love it. I trialled the Rok slipper and loved it. It looks great and is comfortable. The only downside is that I have wide feet and they were a little tight so I would go up a size if you also have weird feet like me. My Christmas style game has definitely been upped and my feet are happy. Simba has taken its expertise in sleep technology to a new level with the launch of the YLUR (£79), ROK (£89), and STORMUR (£69) slippers. These aren’t just any slippers—they’re crafted using high-performance materials like Merino wool, leather, and suede, offering comfort and style in equal measure, for men and women alike.
ROK Slipper: A classic moccasin design with durable suede and Simba’s 9-Zone Reflexology technology, providing all-day support and relief.
Designed with 9-Zone Reflexology technology, simba slippers gently massage the feet, improving circulation and relieving pressure in key areas. Whether it’s for a quick dash outside or for lounging by the fire, these slippers will bring holiday joy and year-round comfort to anyone on your gift list.
Simba Slippers: YLUR, ROK, and STORMUR, £69 to £89
As soon as this penguin arrived at Frost HQ it was adopted by my daughter who now sleeps with it. It’s cute, smells great, is weighted AND it can be heated up. Love it.
Warmies bring a new level of comfort and relaxation with their collection of fully heatable, scented plush toys, designed to provide gentle warmth and a soothing experience. Each Warmies plush is made with soft, premium fabrics and infused with French lavender, known for its calming properties that help ease stress and promote relaxation. With a gentle weight that adds to the cosy feel, these cuddly companions are perfect for kids, teens, and adults alike. Ideal for chilly nights, comforting routines, or simply unwinding after a long day, Warmies make a thoughtful gift that brings warmth and cheer to any occasion. From whimsical animals to festive designs, there is a Warmies for everyone.
The Warmies Baby Penguin is a soft, huggable plush inspired by nature’s cutest cold-weather creatures! This fully microwavable penguin provides cosy warmth and relaxation, infused with soothing French lavender to create a calm, comforting experience. Designed with a gentle weight, it’s perfect for cuddling on chilly days or anytime you need extra comfort. Penguins symbolise warmth and togetherness, making this plush an ideal companion for all ages. Just heat it up for lasting warmth and enjoy this adorable baby penguin as a heartwarming gift or a snuggly treat for yourself!
It’s ski season and our skin will bear the brunt of the cold weather. Skiing exposes our skin to harsh conditions like cold winds, low humidity, and intense sun, which can strip it of moisture and damage its protective barrier. We’ve rounded up the best products from Teoxane, the creators of RHA resilient hyaluronic acid.
To maintain healthy, resilient ski skin, hydration is crucial, and hyaluronic acid plays a vital role as it helps to retain moisture in the skin, keeping it plump, smooth, and protected against the drying effects of the elements.
Teoxane (Teosyal) RHA Serum, £85 Teoxane (Teosyal) RHA Serum contains a potent blend of resilient hyaluronic acid, antioxidants and amino acids, which help to perfect the tone and texture of dull, tired skin within 14 days.
Teoxane 3D Lip, £35 This rich, hydrating and reparative daily lip care treatment features densifying and nutritive ingredients that work together to smooth, nourish, and achieve a plumping effect for the lips.
Teoxane (Teosyal) UVA Shield SPF50+, £55 This very high UVA and UVB protective sunscreen works to prevent UV-induced photoaging and the appearance of dark spots.
I’m obsessed with sunscreen and this one is brilliant.
Lying about your age can cause problems, especially if you’re no good at maths and lying doesn’t come naturally. At the age of fifty-six, and thinking about the Big Six-0, I decided to knock ten years off my age. When my daughter was informed, she said she’d knock ten years off too, making her twenty-six. My grandson looked up in horror. He was better at maths than me and declared, ‘But that would make me minus one. I don’t want to be minus one.’
We decided dropping ten years was not such a good idea so why did I do it again when approaching a publisher? The submission form asked for date of birth. I hovered over the keyboard before typing in 6.2.1960. My thought was that the publisher would think I had more mileage in me.
I’d been selling my writing for over forty years by then.
When asked what I’ve written it’s easier to respond with, ‘I’ve not covered poetry or pornography.’ I’ve written rude greeting cards, silly advertisements, flirted with journalism, sold articles and interviews, had hundreds of short stories published, a children’s book and several non-fiction books. I’ve also been a ghostwriter.
It wasn’t until the first lockdown that I decided it was time to get a novel published. There was an unpublished one, written around the turn of the century but it had never found a home. I dug it out, read it, and could see why. I had twenty more years of experience so set out to do a rewrite.
That was in 2020. I was 70 years old and ready to prove that you are never too old to have a new dream.
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In 2023, Gail Lockwood and Her Imaginary Agony Aunt was published by Cahill Davis Publishing. Now the follow-up to that, Dilys Lloyd’s Dilemmas is out. If there was such a genre they would be classed as ‘mature romantic-comedy’.
The books have working class characters, the important ones all being over fifty. They have problems with jobs, weight, and lack of love lives, but they work hard, remain cheerful most of the time, have adventures and hide in Fred’s Fries for a decent meal when they come out of Flabfighters after being weighed.
My publisher arranged an interview for me with a media company. I was delighted and apprehensive. I’d interviewed many people during my time working for a local newspaper and one of the first questions asked is, ‘How old are you?’
That’s what happened with the media company. ‘I’m sixty-three,’ I lied and, once that hurdle was over, went on to discuss my debut novel and my life. Then came the question that tripped me up. ‘How long have you been married?’
I wasn’t expecting it. Out slipped the truth. ‘Fifty-six years,’ I said.
‘Married at seven?’ My interviewer was more than surprised.
I came clean. Then confessed to my publisher who was lovely, telling me that older people have more experience and therefore their writing is richer. Phew!
