UK Beauty & Lifestyle Blog

Happy Boxing Day 2017 // Lucyy Writes

an image of Happy Boxing Day 2017
Happy Boxing Day! How did you spend Christmas Day? I hope wherever you were and whoever you spent it with - that you had the relaxing day you deserve. I send extra love and well wishes to those who were missing someone OR simply had to work it themselves. Who is up and about ready for the sales OR are you sticking to a little online indulgence whilst chilling in new pyjamas and munching on leftovers & boxes of chocolates? I'd love to hear how you spend Boxing Day? Usually we have a quiet day - this year I'm hoping to have a little potter around the few shops in my local town, having not done so for a few years. Then spend the afternoon relaxing, a Lush bath and some leftover nibbles with the family - not to mention a couple dog walks fitted in to walk off those extra pigs in blankets I enjoyed yesterday....all these Free From ranges have a lot to answer for this year thats for sure - but it's only Christmas once a year <3 Lucy xx

Have a Holly Jolly Christmas 2017 / Lucyy Writes

Whilst the majority of us are probably spending the day with our loved ones, for those of you who may be flicking through for a seasonal morning read today - I'd like to wish you all a very Merry Little Christmas & thank those who have stuck by even through my lack of posting in 2017. This year has been incredibly hard mentally and physically - I hope to overcome all in 2018 and continue with the hobby and career booster I used to love so much. 
an image of have a holly jolly Christmas 2017
I still love blogging, but obstacles have definitely stopped me from being as active as I used to be. Thank you to all the amazing PR's & Brands who have been so warm & understanding - I look forward to working with you in the New Year! This post took a more serious turn than expected - SO Moving On - MERRY CHRISTMAS ALL, sending you all the warm wishes and love for the seasonal holiday & New Year. Have a Holly Jolly Christmas - Love the Lucyy Writes family <3

Christmas 2017 Wishlist // Lucyy Writes

an image of christmas 2017 wishlist
Happy Christmas Eve! I can't believe how fast this week has flown by and boy has there been a lot to prepare in our household. Why is it no matter how much you plan and prepare you are never ready for the big day as much as you'd like!? Whilst Christmas is about spending time with loved ones, spoiling those who deserve it - I of course thought today's post should be a little more fun with things that have taken my fancy - I'm not expecting to unwrap these items come tomorrow morning but I'll be looking for them in the sales and treating myself to some throughout the following year. What are you hoping for this Christmas? As long as my family and I have a relaxing day together after having to spend it semi-apart last year (my Dad worked 12 hours, each of his four shifts - 2 days+2nights over Christmas 2016) I'll be a very happy lady come Christmas Morning.
an image of Christmas 2017 Wishlist
1. Ugg Mini Boots in Stormy Grey UK3-UK3.5 // 2. Calvin Klein Crop Top & Thong // 3. Hotel Chocolat Mulled Wine Chocolates // 4. Animalz Sheet Mask // 5. Ann Summers Velvet Cami Set // 6. Scarlett Moffatt - Me Life Story // 7. Lush The Snowman Bubbleroon // 8. Urban Decay Naked 1 Palette // 9. Lush Christmas Bathtime Favourites Gift Set // 10. Gluten Free Dairy Free Treats - Nakd Banana Crunch are a firm favourite // 11. Ugg Mini Boots in Chestnut UK3-UK3.5 // 12. Wireless Headphones // 13. YSL Black Opium EDP // 14. River Island Harper Jeans in Black UK4-6 // 15. The Little Bullet Book // 16. Isabelle Broom - The Place We Met // 17. GHD Curve Wand Gift Set // 18. Radley Travel Case // 19. Nike Commuter Trainers in Plum Fog in UK3-UK3.5 // 20. Gift Cards - Boots, Newlook, iTunes, Debenhams etc <3 

What are you hoping to find under the tree? Or in the sales this year? How are you spending tomorrow? I always love to know others traditions! Lucy x

How I Chose to Decorate This Christmas // Lucyy Writes

I can't believe how fast this week has flown by - I'm also pretty proud of myself for completing a mini Blogmas Week here on LW after being absent for so long, even if nobody comments on blogs these days. It's a shame when you look back at say 2011 - comments and interaction were flying in. Someone tell me if I'm boring you all? :P Moving on, lets get back to being full of Festive Cheer Lucy. I thought I'd share my favourite and new decorations I added to my bedroom and bedroom tree this year - not to mention the spare bedroom/office in which I'm probably making very cosy, carrying out the hidden presents - so it's ready for my brothers arrival.
an image of How I've decorated for Christmas 2017
an image of How I've decorated for Christmas 2017
an image of How I've decorated for Christmas 2017
an image of How I've decorated for Christmas 2017
an image of How I've decorated for Christmas 2017
This year I carried on my silver and pastel theme, to match with my interior of my bedroom. I love a bit of glass and glitter too. I was lucky enough to enjoy many advents this year, with the wooden nutcracker taking pride of place on my dressing table - I look forward to using him year after year, just look at those cheeks. I found the best place for affordable decorations this year to be The Range (which you'd find on the Kitchen's new theme - Glass, Snow and Berries - with a silver table) & the spare bedroom (more glass, white, glitter and twigs). I then found my new additions for my bedroom in Wilko of all places - as did the majority of the female population this year in the UK. Not to forget The Range for the beautiful green heart & Matalan for the Nutcracker Tree Decoration and Sausage Dog - that I couldn't resist even if he doesn't go with my bedrooms theme & my favourite independent interior store.
an image of How I've decorated for Christmas 2017
an image of How I've decorated for Christmas 2017
an image of How I've decorated for Christmas 2017
an image of How I've decorated for Christmas 2017
an image of How I've decorated for Christmas 2017
What theme or themes do you go for in your house? We've slowly switched to white, silver, pastel and glass over the years - with 2017 being the year it all ties in together, though remaining with it's own unique take of the theme per room. I always adore our snow effect trees - whether it be the bushy branches - half Christmas Tree in the spare room and kitchen. Or the Snow Larch Trees in the living room and my bedroom. The main bedroom also has a tree, along with outside on the drive. What can I say? We really get into our Christmas. If I showed you all the new additions we'd be here all day - there's always next year and Instagram for more snap-shots before the seasons over.
an image of How I've decorated for Christmas 2017
an image of How I've decorated for Christmas 2017
an image of How I've decorated for Christmas 2017
an image of how I've wrapped presents 2017
an image of How I've decorated for Christmas 2017
I hope whatever you get up to today - whether it be shopping, wrapping or manic food prep and present deliveries, you have the most magical, festive filled day ready for a special few days with those you love. There's still a few posts worth looking out for on LW <3 But if it's your last time before the festivities Merry Christmas and a very, Happy 2018. Lots of Love the LW Family. xxx

My Top Christmas Fiction Picks for 2017 // Lucyy Writes

an image of My Top Christmas Fiction Picks for 2017
Whilst you may have noticed there's been quite the absence from LW again despite it being my favourite time of year and the fact I was planning content and photographing as much as I could - I've actually been getting into reading fiction again. Last summer I started reading again, to the point I started a series of books called Agatha Raisin - about 23 books long, until I was waiting for the new releases. This took me up until last Christmas before I started drifting and struggling to find a decent book after falling in love with the series and debating to read it again and again. Fast forward to this summer & I finally got back onto my reading train - I haven't stopped since and I've only got better with the huge amount of Christmas Fiction released this Winter and amazing deals I've found on older Christmas Fiction. I won't go into details of the books - but here are some of my favourite adult fictions, with some children's fiction we've picked up to gift & some Mr Men and Little Miss that are a bit of a tradition with myself and my Mum - she'd always pop one in my stocking - there's also the Quiz Kids Puzzle Mag - who else loved this as a kid? I still grab one when I see it because I suck at adult puzzles....and coloured puzzles are far more fun - judge all you want.
an image of My Top Christmas Fiction Picks for 2017
an image of My Top Christmas Fiction Picks for 2017
an image of My Top Christmas Fiction Picks for 2017
I'm someone who prefers to read an actual book, compared to a kindle - however since we're so close to Christmas I'm assuming you guys are kindle or ebook readers (I can tolerate reading on my iPad) OR you're happy to head to the shops - I've found The Works, Sainsbury's and Morrison's to be fantastic this year for Christmas Reads - a lot of new releases have been very affordable in Sainsbury's and The Works have had great deals on both adult and children fiction. So here's what I've been reading with Christmas at the Cupcake Cafe being my current read as I write this post, a week away from Christmas.
My Top Christmas Children's Fiction Picks for 2017
an image of My Top Christmas Fiction Picks for 2017
an image of My Top Christmas Fiction Picks for 2017
an image of My Top Christmas Fiction Picks for 2017
If you've any recommendations for Christmas and non-Christmas fiction I'd love to hear - I could read it all year! Reading was always a huge part of my life growing up and it's certainly become a way of relaxing each evening or a quiet, afternoon when my anxiety gets a little too much. Who else is a book worm? Lucy xx

Cheddar & Chorizo Pastries // Lucyy Writes

If you've been following me for quite some time, whether it be on social media or via my blog you may have noticed that from time to time I share images of today's recipe. It's my signature, no matter what time of year it is, if there's a party, special holiday OR we just fancy them I always whip up a batch or two, with them gone as quick as you can make them. It's not only my family and neighbours that adore these, but also my parents friends. If they're invited to a party....these guys are requested. I don't think they'd be allowed in if they ever turned up without a heaped box of my Cheddar and Chorizo Pastries. It's funny isn't it - I'm not entirely sure what to call my signature bake? They're known as my 'cheesey stars' even when they aren't in the shape of stars, sometimes they come in hearts, at this time of year they're of course in Christmas Themed shapes. Either way they're completely delicious - and can be changed around for a stronger cheese or the chorizo taken out if you're vegetarian. If you're wanting to know how to make my famous, golden - cheese topped pastries - full of paprika and Spanish chorizo, great alone - warm from the oven, as party nibbles OR to accompany a steaming bowl of soup, simply read on. P.S who recognises lasts years custom tin I had made? The perfect way to store any left over pastries!
an image of Cheddar & Chorizo Pastries Recipe
an image of Cheddar & Chorizo Pastries Recipe
Ingredients:
150g Self Raising Flour
1 Tsp Paprika
1/2 Tsp Salt
75g Butter
75g Cheddar Cheese - grated + plus extra for topping
1 Egg
1 Tbsp Milk
Chorizo - I use the pre-chopped, twin pack.
an image of Cheddar & Chorizo Pastries recipe
Recipe:
1. Pre-heat your oven to 200C or 180C if you have a fan oven like myself. Line 2-3 trays with greaseproof paper.
2. In a bowl, mix together your flour, paprika & salt before rubbing the chopped butter into this mix until fine breadcrumbs are formed.
3. Next add your cheese - the original called for you to reserve some to top - I however grate extra for the topping and add all the cheese in. If you're adding the Chorizo - now is the time to do so also. I always chop the pre-chopped up again so it's extra fine.
4. Then slowly add the beaten egg + milk to form a dough, save some liquid as this is then used to glaze your pastries.
5. Chill your dough for at least an hour, then roll out - neither too thick, nor too thin - I'm afraid I don't have the exact measurements as I've made them so often I just get on with it.
6. Cut out your shapes, lay onto your trays - then brush and top with cheese & glaze before baking for 12-15 minutes or until the cheese has melted and you have golden pastries.
7. All that is left is to let them cool (if you can) or enjoy them warm from the oven. Eat alone or teamed with a big bowl of soup OR pull the cheese board and pickles out. They keep really well - though they won't be around for long with family and friends visiting.

Do you have a signature bake? A recipe that you always whip up when it comes to special occasions and holidays? I've always put off sharing my recipe for these - but it's about time I share one of my most well loved, most requested treats - and hey, for once it's not sweet! Lucy xx
Disclaimer: I hold no responsibility for calories gained through excessive consumption of these moreish delights <3

Lush // The Snowman Bubbleroon Review

Despite being the Lush addict we all know I am, I've been a little hasty in using and reviewing my little pick me up treats this year (find my Lush Christmas 2017 Haul here). In all honesty I haven't had the time to enjoy long relaxing soaks, a quick festive shower with some Snow Fairy and scrub with Buche de Noel has been as much as it gets some days. However, this week our shower has decided to pack in - Can we find a plumber to fix the situation? Can we heck. Thankfully with my Dad due back in for his next round of work shifts, the bathroom queue is going to be a little quicker, as he showers at work, leaving the only difficulty over Christmas Weekend, into New Year when my brother visits for the week. We'll get around it I'm sure - with plenty of time off for everyone, I'll be sure to enjoy more baths - especially after using The Snowman Bubbleroon I'm sharing today.
an image of Lush Christmas 2017 The Snowman Bubbleroon Review
The Snowman Bubbleroon £4.25 is brand new to the 2017 Christmas Collection, though usually Lush produce a nourishing snowman themed bath product each year. My favourite would have to be the melting snowman - when he smelt of Snowcake, compared to Hot Toddy. That little guy was adorable and packed a lot of cocoa butter into your bath. However, The Snowman Bubbleroon may have just topped it - well actually there's no doubt about it...HE HAS. If there's one product worth picking up this week, before we say goodbye to the festive treats for another year, I urge you to create your own snowman army.
an image of Lush Christmas 2017 The Snowman Bubbleroon Review
Instead of being classed as a regular Bubble Bar, The Snowman is actually a Bubbleroon - Lush actually discontinued the majority of their Bubbleroons this year which saddened me greatly as someone who suffers with eczema and dry skin. I've always appreciated the extra nourishing butters they pack into these bath products, making them worth paying that little bit more for. For those who aren't quite sure on Bubbleroons - you use them in the same way as a bubble bar, crumble your desired size piece under warm running water, give your water a good swish to help create more bubbles and you'll notice how much more hydrating the water feels on your skin without being oily and leaving both your skin and bath tub slippery. He's also a great product for someone who isn't interested in the flashy, brightly coloured waters and golden lustre Lush include in a lot of their bath products (hence no bath shots).
an image of Lush Christmas 2017 The Snowman Bubbleroon Review
Despite Lush always increasing prices, The Snowman is definitely well worth the price tag - I've managed to get two long, incredibly hydrating and bubble filled baths from my first - though you could easily get 3-4 depending on how big your tub is. Each time the bathroom has been filled with the most beautiful fragrance of Sicilian lemon and lemon myrtle oil, giving you that added lift on those stubbornly dark, and bitterly cold days. Lush have actually packed The Snowman Bubbleroon with Fair Trade Shea Butter, to nourish and hydrate, along with Soya Milk Powder - brilliant that they now use Soya Milk Powder compared to regular Milk Powder. There's also Cocoa Butter & of course, decoration includes an adorable nose made out of the bubbleroon formula and juniper berries for his eyes - both of mine seemed to lose either an eye or a nose on the way home.

Have you picked up The Snowman Bubbleroon yet? I'd love to hear your thoughts on my favourite product from this years collection. I'm wishing I could get down to my local to stock up - though I've hinted well to Santa's Little Helpers. Lucy xx
Disclaimer: own purchase + no affiliate links

Christmas Gift Guide 2017 // For The Dog

No matter how small of a pet I've had (okay I've only had fish and hamsters until the dogs) but you get the gist - we've always spoilt them. Maybe not the goldfish though they did appreciate the occasional pea dropped into their tank. Seriously though - even when I had hamster after hamster I would still make them up a stocking of little treats for Christmas morning, or be found picking out toys & new treats on the weekends. The stocking would contain a carrot, festive bed and novelty gnawing blocks because as cute as the little guys were - weren't they bar chewers! However since owning dogs - I have two West Highland Terriers for those who don't know, I thought it was well worth sharing what we've slowly been picking up - though I definitely need to grab a few more distractions and treats for the big day. It's my little way of saying thank you for all the snuggles, licks and wagging tails greeting me every day - not to mention the comedy the pair of them provide & social interaction - you don't realise just how many people come into your life when you get a dog and socialise it. So without delay - here's what I've picked up for my little furry friends for Christmas 2017 - with a beautiful hamper I was so kind to win a few weeks ago from a brand we shop with online. They've been strutting the streets in style thanks to Urban Pup. 
an image of Christmas Gift Guide 2017 For The Dog
an image of Christmas Gift Guide 2017 For The Dog
First up - a true treat for Harry, he doesn't get these very often. We used to always pick up the Munchy Bones from Pets at Home when their seasonal ranges came into stores. However they've changed their mix up and we aren't comfortable for him or Mollie to have these, whilst in The Range we noticed they actually had some more like what we used to purchase - shredded rawhide compared to solid rawhide. They also didn't have too much colouring, so we were more than happy to chuck some in the basket to keep our little man happy over the festive period. Though they're never any trouble when it comes to the big day - they love a roast dinner and a relax - only opening their own gifts. Mollie being as diddy as she is, struggles with most large chews - despite going through a phase of breaking all of Harry's favourite toys when she first moved in. However they actually stocked smaller, shapes of gloves and hats - we're hoping this year she manages a few of these before Harry cottons on and steals her treat too.
Next up - one item we picked up to go with someones gifts that have a lot of dogs and another for our neighbours dog. Bakers and Pedigree both have great treat tins out - perfect because they're such great value and the owners get a useful tin for storing the open packets in. Bakers is the most popular between who we're buying for so we decided to go for those. The All Sorts always smell so good - I never thought I'd find dog treats to smell nice but you have to hand it to Bakers.

Back to our little monkeys - whilst at The Range, we noticed they had a couple toys our two would adore. The first being an emoji poo - they'll love squeaking this and it'll be pretty funny to see them wrestle over it. We also grabbed the bottle snowman as Mollie loves anything that makes a squeaks, crunches and crackles.
an image of Christmas Gift Guide 2017 For The Dog
an image of Christmas Gift Guide 2017 For The Dog
As mentioned, both Harry and Mollie have been treated this Christmas early - when I won the Urban Pup Twitter Giveaway. I only had to answer a question about what they stocked and to retweet. I was lucky enough to be chosen - great when you never win anything and also shop with the brand already. The prize was their Christmas themed hamper which retails for around £60 - with a contents worth well over £100. Inside was a red collar, red lead with little charm - I've actually decided to give this to another little cutie because why not share? Plus our two have plenty of back up collars and leads in the drawer. My favourite item of the box has to be the White Ski Puffa Jacket that Mollie will be strutting down the streets come the cold, dryer days. It fits her perfectly and it's really important we keep her hip joint warm and protected from the colder weather since she had her Hip Replacement last year. We also received a red mesh harness - we were planning on buying two red harnesses to match their Christmas Jumpers - therefore we only need to get Harry one now. There was also another Christmas Jumper in the box - perfect for Mollie and a Christmas Hoodie which Harry's been wearing.
an image of Christmas Gift Guide 2017 For The Dog
Other items I'm planning on picking up this week are - more of their favourite healthy treats, new antlers or bullhorn's to keep them busy over the festive period with all the comings and goings, not to mention fireworks that'll be going off. There'll be a few more toys and again - Harry gets a new harness. They're very well looked after and shall be enjoying plenty of turkey dinners over the Christmas and Boxing Day period. What do you buy for your pets? Or are you not so crazy as us? Lucy xx
Disclaimer: all own purchases apart from giveaway prize which I opted to share, no affiliated links.

Sunken Chocolate and Sloe Gin Cake // with Hayman's Gin

Whilst you'd find me baking the majority of my spare time each week, I've been slacking on the sweet treat front recently. You'd think with the festive period well and truly in full swing I'd be creating tray after tray of Christmas Cookies, Brownies and all sorts of other delicious treats as other years but in reality I've been absolutely shattered or lacking on patience. However on a cosy evening, I settled down to watch Nigella - her latest series to go with her new book At The Table, has just finished on BBC though you'll catch it on iPlayer still. I'm planning on re-watching to gather a few more ideas - especially as I missed half of the festive special. One particular recipe finally inspired me enough to put the Sloe Gin I was kindly sent over by Hayman's to good use, putting my own spin on the Princess' (sorry Nigella but Mary Berry still remains Queen) Sunken Chocolate Amaretto Cake with crumbled Ameretti Cream.
an image of Sunken Chocolate and Sloe Gin Cake Recipe
an image of Sunken Chocolate and Sloe Gin Cake Recipe
an image of Sunken Chocolate and Sloe Gin Cake Recipe
an image of Sunken Chocolate and Sloe Gin Cake Recipe
This cake is similar to one I've made in the past, though a lot thinner and a whole lot more indulgent. The Sloe Gin works wonderfully with the dark chocolate, this dark, squidgy chocolate cake is the perfect supper time treat when accompanied with family and friends, leaving you feeling warm, festive and fuzzy inside - whilst the White chocolate mousse I chose to serve each slice with, adds an extra naughtiness to the dessert without the calories of a heavily whipped cream - though who counts calories in this period? I sure as hell don't think we should! If you're new to Sloe Gin I'll leave the description to Hayman's - found here. No Festive Party would be complete without it. You still have time to buy yours from retailers like Ocado, Amazon, Harvey Nichols and more.
an image of Sunken Chocolate and Sloe Gin Cake Recipe
an image of Sunken Chocolate and Sloe Gin Cake with Hayman's Gin
an image of Sunken Chocolate and Sloe Gin Cake with Hayman's Gin
Ingredients:
100g Dark Chocolate
100g Unsalted Butter - softened and cubed (or dairy free butter)
4 Large Eggs
125g Caster Sugar
75g Ground Almonds (naturally gluten free, yay)
2 Tbsp Cocoa Powder + 1Tsp for dusting

To Serve:
Extra Thick Double Cream with 1 Tbsp of Sloe Gin whipped in or Muller Belgian White Chocolate Mousse (which we used) or Swedish Glace Vanilla Ice Cream (if you prefer to avoid heavy dairy like myself) and of course - Fresh Raspberries.

1. Preheat your oven to 180C or 160C if you have a fan oven like myself. Also prepare a 20-23cm spring-form tin by greasing the sides and lining the base with baking paper.
2. Melt Chocolate and Butter together in a heatproof bowl, over simmering water - don't let the bowl touch the water. You could also microwave - but be very careful when melting chocolate. Once melted pour into a jug and leave to cool for a short while.
3. Whisk the Eggs and Sugar until thick, mousse like and doubled - if not tripled. You can do this by hand but who honestly has the time for that? Stand Mixer or Electric Hand Mixer at the ready guys.
4. Mix the Almonds and Cocoa Powder in a small bowl, then turn your mixer down low and gently whisk into your eggs and sugar mixture, spoon by spoon.
5. Stir the Sloe Gin (or preferred flavouring/alcohol) into the melted Butter and Chocolate mixture. Then slowly pour in a steady stream into your cake mixture, whilst whisking the whole time. It will look like chocolate mousse.
6. Fold by hand, before pouring into your prepared tin and baking for 20-25 minutes. You want your cake to be coming away from the sides of the tin, slightly cracked and bubbled with a thin crust. The cake will be dark and tender under the 'crust' and when tested will leave a few damp crumbs on your cake tester/fork.
7. Now you need to leave your cake in the tin to cool completely, with a clean tea towel over. Once cool you can remove your cake from the tin & dust with the remaining cocoa powder before serving how you wish. We chose to have Fresh Raspberries, Muller White Chocolate Belgian Mousse for those who could have it and if you're like me then - Dairy Free Ice Cream or just the berries - the cake is delicious enough without anything extra.
an image of Sunken Chocolate and Sloe Gin Cake with Hayman's Gin
an image of Sunken Chocolate and Sloe Gin Cake with Hayman's Gin
What are you planning on making over Christmas and New Year? I think this Pudding would be absolutely divine for a cold December evening, gathered with the family. You can easily swap the alcohol for your preferred choice OR leave it out entirely if you have children and add your own extract - perhaps peppermint, salted caramel OR maybe almond if the ground almonds aren't already enough for you and to put a true festive spin on this classic and effortless dessert. This is one indulgent treat to have made its way firmly into our families favourites for years to come. I'll hopefully have time this week to make some more of my traditional Christmas goodies - but if not my sweet treats shall see you in 2018 <3 Lucy x
Disclaimer: Hayman's kindly provided me with the Gin for review consideration, though this post is not sponsored and does not contain any affiliated links.

Christmas Gift Guide 2017 // For Her Main Gifts

Having already shared my For Her Stocking Fillers and For Him Gift Guides today, it seems only fair to also share ideas for those who may be struggling still for a larger gift whether it be for your Mum, Sister or Friend. Gift Buying can be difficult though I like to think I've got you covered - especially when it comes to having gifts that won't break the bank, look festive and can still be purchased - even with delivery. You can find my For Her 2017 Stocking Fillers here & my For Him Christmas Gift Guide 2017 here. Be sure to give them some love, I'd love a little Christmas cheer. Back onto the gifts, here's my festive picks in hope they help inspire you.
an image of For Her Christmas Gift Guide 2017
The main gift under the tree this year for my Mum is this beautiful Radley Watch I helped pick out during their Sale Period - She currently has another Radley watch but it's started to play up and the strap needs replacing again. Seeing this one, I just knew it was for her, the adorable but not overly crazed design and the rose gold touch, she'll love it. I've also picked her out a Radley Canvas Shopper - it's much bigger than their regular tote shoppers, I love that it's sparkly, without being too Christmassy and it even has a zipper closure as well as the usual zipped pocket inside. There's plenty of designs to pick from. Whilst we're on the topic of shoppers - you can never have too many, for the charity supporter and animal welfare lover, how about the wonderful Born Free Canvas Bag which retails for just £11 and holds A LOT, not to mention is really well made.
an image of Next and Radley London Gift Guide 2017
an image of Next and Radley London Gift Guide 2017
Other ideas to wrap for under the tree are new Pyjamas, Slippers and something to wear over the party season. Again, the pieces featured here have been picked out for my Mum. She adored these slippers in Next, so I took note and picked them up whilst Christmas shopping, she'll love the sparkly top whether she wears it Christmas Day, Boxing Day or New Years. I gave in and gave her the Pom Pom Hat early this week - I ran out of paper and she's been suffering with a cold. Newlook are fab for hats and knitwear at the moment, the offers are ridiculous.
an image of Born Free Canvas Shopper Bag
an image of Christmas gift Guide For Her 2017
an image of Seasons Greetings Lush Christmas 2017
an image of Beauty Christmas Gift Guide 2017
There's nothing nicer than opening a box of fancy chocolates whether it be to yourself or shared with the family. We recently enjoyed the Prestat Box* featured in this gift guide and I'm hoping to see some more in the near future. I'll be treating everyone to a little box of chocolatey heaven come birthdays and any special occasion. For those who are Free From like myself don't forget your local Supermarkets and Holland & Barrett who all have fabulous ranges of Free From Wheat, Gluten, Nut and Dairy Chocolate, Fudge, Cake, Cookies and Sweets. The one featured here came from Holland And Barrett - which features Christmas shapes and bars. You also can't beat getting someone organised at Christmas, Home Sense have a fantastic range of diaries - I picked mine up in the summer and use it every day. The layout is fantastic - perfect for those who are and aren't as busy. Cheerz worked with me earlier this year too and in the past - they offer personalised calendars* where you can add dates and photo's, along with custom layouts and more. You might even be able to see a glimpse of the weekly planner I picked up in Debenhams - I say I picked up, but my Dad actually purchased it in the end - I can't wait to get organised in the New Year with it. If not this week with all my last minute Christmas Prep - again check out the gift section as they had it all reduced.
an image of Chocolate Gift Guide Christmas 2017
an image of Stationary Gift Guide Christmas 2017
Beauty Gift Sets are impossible to decide over though here are some of the ones I've picked up. As in my Stocking Filler Guide Oh K have really caught my eye this Christmas with Debenhams having some amazing deals when I was shopping. Here I have their Foot Peeling Masks and a Skin Kit - which features various masks from them. Obviously it isn't Christmas without a little Lush under the tree - Seasons Greetings took my liking earlier this festive season and my family were equally won over. Real Techniques have had incredible gift sets in both Boots and Superdrug this year - Here you can see the Get The Perfect Party Eye brush set which would be perfect....teamed with a new palette, like the Naked 3 or perhaps the Naked Heat Palette. I'm hoping for the original as I'm hitting pan.
an image of Christmas Gift Guide 2017 For Her Main Gifts
an image of Christmas Gift Guide 2017 For Her Main Gifts
For the home bird and keen baker - candles in sweet scents and recipe books alway go down well. I was over the moon to receive Candice Brown's Comfort book for my birthday and I know so many others would enjoy this at Christmas too. Also look out for Martha Collinson's Books, they're incredibly well laid out and perfect for the novice to the more experienced bakers. P.S is there any better scent than Yankee Candle's Snowflake Cookie? I don't think so. 
an image of Candice Brown Comfort Recipe Book Review
an image of Christmas Gift Guide 2017 For Her Main Gifts
Following on the candle theme did you know Label M - yes the hair brand launched their own candle this year? I know - their products smells absolutely insane and having this burn in the house has been so relaxing - plus look how glam it looks. Well packaged in a black box, this glossy black Diamond Dust Candle is infused with citrus, violet and musk, retailing for £22. You could also team this item with one of their House of Holland gift sets - here I have the The Best of Label M Gift Set* which retails for £15.95 from Label M HERE or HERE from Look Fantastic. You have everything you need to tie you over the festive season, with shampoo, conditioner, hairspray, volume and protein sprays. Label M Products are well loved in our household. Treat yourself or a loved one.

What have you picked out for the females in your life? Have you had to purchase much or do you keep it simple? I'd love to hear what you're hoping to see under the tree this year or your plans for the festive period. Lucy xx
Disclaimer: Items marked * sent for review consideration, no payment received and no affiliate links used.
© Lucyy Writes

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