Year: 2019

TEAM ZOELLA NOVEMBER 6, 2019

Top Spots for a Cosy Hot Chocolate in Brighton

Here in bonny Brighton, we are spoilt for choice when it comes to award-winning and effortlessly cool independent cafes. Amongst the hustle and bustle of the historic Lanes, there's an array of coffee shops and tea rooms to hunker down in and watch the world go by.

Since so many of you ask for our favourite hot chocolate haunts, we thought it’s only right that we give the people what they want and round up the best cocoa concoctions this vibrant city has to offer.

We drank our way through Brighton’s boujiest cafes

We drank our way through Brighton’s boujiest cafes from the Instagram hyped favourites to the hidden and unexpected gems to bring you our top 6 spots. It’s a tough job but someone’s got to do it!

The Flour Pot Bakery
Find it: 40 Sydney Street (but there’s seven in total so take your pick)

The Instagram hype is real, people. The Flour Pot is a true Brighton treasure
and with good reason – the Friday sell-out doughnuts, the marble and copper interiors, their own artisan bread, we could go on and on. Most loved for its caffeine and cake selection but its hot chocolate game is just as worthy.

Fancy a milky hot chocolate dusted in rich cocoa powder? Your wish is The Flour Pot Bakery’s command.

Trading Post
Find it: 40 Kensington Garden

Like a meal in a cup! If a creamy textbook hot choc is what you’re after – no gimmicks, no frills, just a trusty nostalgic cup of the hot stuff – then Trading Post is the one for you.

Expect a generous mug full to the brim of sweet ‘n’ frothy nectar.

Bread & Milk
Find it: 82 Trafalgar Street

And the award for the dark horse goes to… Bread & Milk. Our favourite hot chocolate of the bunch is humble in appearance but extraordinary in taste and texture – this guy is not to be underestimated.

Expect to be pleasantly surprised. It may not be the most aesthetically pleasing hot chocolate the world of hot beverages has to offer but it’ll get your taste buds buzzing fo’ sure.

Pelicano
Find it: 28 Sydney Street & 28 Queens Road

For the sweet toothed fans, this one will tickle your fancy. Topped with a flake and served in a rustic glass milk bottle, it’s as classic as they come.

A note for the non-dairy drinkers: we tried it with oat milk and whilst we’ve sampled better dairy alternative hot chocs, this one’s great for anyone who likes their hot bev a little less on the creamy side.

Expect a simple hot choc recipe in a comfy café!

Bond Street Coffee
Find it: 15 Bond Street

It’s built up a great rep for its kickass coffee but let it be said that these guys take their hot chocolate just as seriously. For those that are into the proper stuff over the creamier, paler variety, this is the good place.

Expect a real earthy chocolate taste in a Goldilocks cup that’s “just right”.

Black Mocha
Find it on 103 Gloucester Road

So good we tried two.

Go for their signature 40% milk chocolate blended with organic milk and piled high with a choice of toppings. Naturally, we opted for honeycomb, marshmallow and cream – the barista was both startled and impressed but we were there to do a job and we were emotionally invested in sampling a trio of beverage toppers and nothing less. Who needs to be able to do their jeans up anyway?

This place has built up quite the accolade for Best Hot Choc in Brighton and we can vouch for that. You won’t be disappointed!

If you’re vegan, they also do a lovely albeit small cup of decadent 70% dark chocolate alternative which gained a solid rating from us.

Expect a hot chocolate good enough to rival Willy Wonka’s marvellous creations.

Where’s your favourite spot for a hot choc? Is there anywhere we need to add to our list?

TEAM ZOELLA NOVEMBER 4, 2019

Beauty Curious: The Team’s Autumn Beauty Essentials

November is prime time to switch up your skincare and makeup ready for the new season ahead. Give us products that put some life back into our skin asap!

Warm and smoky eyeshadow palettes, silky CC creams, matte berry lips and radiance boosting skincare at the ready, here’s a round-up of the beauty staples we’re reaching for this Autumn.

Lareese

Clarins Instant Concealer*

Give me all the dewy makeup and skincare, please. My skin always throws a bit of a hissy fit at this time of year. It looks and feels duller and lacklustre, so any help in the radiance department is much appreciated. A product that never leaves my makeup bag all year round is the Clarins Instant Concealer. Its creamy formula revives and brightens the undereye area without feeling heavy on the skin or sitting in any fine lines. Even if it’s the only makeup I put on that day, it makes my whole face look instantly more rested and awake.

NYX Born To Glow Liquid Illuminator in Pale Pink Pearl*

Another product that helps gives my pale skin a bit of a lit from within glow. I’m a huge fan of lightweight liquid formulas over powders and this one never fails to give my pores a healthy boost. I wear it alone as a base on my ‘no makeup, makeup’ days when my skin needs livening up or I pat it over my foundation across my cheekbones to give my complexion a natural-looking radiance.

The Body Shop Oils Of Life Intensely Revitalising Face Oil*

Like a spa in a bottle! This is a new skincare discovery for me – it’s a lightweight daily oil that absorbs effortlessly into the skin without feeling sticky or greasy. Ideal for using both morning and night before your moisturiser or night cream to give your complexion a radiance kick. I love this stuff!

Pixi Vitamin-C Caviar Balm*

I wear this over my serum or face oil for extra luminosity. It’s a silky smooth and hydrating leave-on mask that visibly brightens the skin and combats damage from free radicals. Anything that helps keeps my collagen production ticking along is a friend of mine.

Lareese

Sisley Radiant Glow Express Mask*

This gentle creamy mask is perfect for those days when your skin needs a little extra TLC. Formulated with red clay, carrot, red vine, rose hip and chamomile and rosemary essential oils, it’s super smooth, non-drying and supple. It’s also a good product for girls on the go as you only need to leave it to work for 3-5 minutes.

Holy Grail Retinol Repair Skin Crème*

I’m not massively well versed in the art of retinol but I know it works wonders for speeding up cell turnover and boosting collagen production and that’s enough to convince nearly-thirty-year-old me I need it in my life. It only contains 1% retinol which is low enough for minimal irritation, making it a great introduction to this feisty molecule or those with sensitive skin. It also contains pore-plumping hyaluronic acid for a firmer, younger and better hydrated complexion.

Starskin Juice Lab Twist & Sprout Power C + Booster Mask

Throw in a super hydrating sheet mask once a week and I’m good to go! This one is packed with superfoods and antioxidants like Vitamin C, celery, pear and avocado to calm and balance the skin.

Lauren

I’m curbing the traditional matte vibes of autumn and embracing the summer dew for a bit longer. My skin is always better with a bit of colour and hydration, so I’ve been adding Oskia Adaptive Tan Drops* to my face oil twice a week and have stayed with my Madara Anti-Pollution CC Cream* from the summer as my base – it’s very hydrating but doesn’t sit on the skin, so I feel like I’m makeup free whilst still rocking some coverage!

Speaking of that glow, I’ve become attached to the gorgeous shimmer and colour of the Balm’s Bonnie-Lou Manizer Highlighter* – it’s like a bronzer and highlight in one, adding a really nice golden depth to my cheeks and that much wanted sparkle, and I think it looks really nice against darker, warmer autumn makeup as well as low-key summer nudes.

I find autumn is THE TIME to go in on eyes and lips, so I’ve gone for two darker shades in the Brunch Date Palette – Mimosa all over the lid, and Extra Slice in the crease and under my eye, blended out with a fluffy brush for a gorge cat-eye feel. I then go in with a layer or two of the Pacifica Stellar Gaze Mascara* which has been a long-time favourite for fluffy, volumised, and dark lashes.

Lauren

You also can’t go wrong with a red lip this time of year! My two picks are Zoella x Colourpop Self Love Club liquid lip and Milk Makeup OG Red lipstick* – both have a matte finish, but the latter is a bit creamier so I like to layer the two for longevity and extra intensity.

Last year I wore this Wideye polish in Cygnus from October to January and I’m pretty sure I will do again, as it’s a gorgeous dark red that’s perfect for the time of year – it’s also 5-free and lasts about a week on my hands, which is pretty good going for me!

Finally, I’ve upped the oil intake in my evening routine again, reaching back to the Oskia Restoration Oil*. I use about 3 drops, but it really hydrates and plumps my skin, and as I have combination skin, it puts the hydration where I need it and balances the areas where I’m typically oily – great win for this time of year!

Danielle

I have to kick off my autumn essentials with a bit of fake tan. I only started using these Tan Luxe drops* this summer but I’m already in love and they stop me from looking ill when the colder months come!

I tend to use quite a high coverage foundation after summer and this Urban Decay one* is a fave, it can be a little drying but luckily I plaster myself with Weleda Skin Food* every morning as a base (best tip ever from Katie Jane Hughes). Picked up the Maybelline Instant Anti Age Eraser Concealer* because I’d seen it about a million times and I won’t lie, it hasn’t disappointed me yet!

I’ll blast a bit of this NARS Orgasm Afterglow Lip Balm* throughout the day, chapped lips are NOT for me, and I save the ol’ matte liquid lips for the evenings and weekends.

Between the Zoella X ColourPop Brunch Club palette and the Anastasia Beverly Hills Soft Glam palette*, my autumn eyelids are covered, the shimmery neutrals, maroons, dark browns and blacks are my most used. I’ll finish off my eyes with Charlotte Tilbury mascara* and Glossier Boy Brow* and Brow Flick*.

My skincare routine still starts with Milky Jelly Cleanser from Glossier* no matter what time of year but it’s especially great for taking off all my eye makeup in the evenings!

Maddie

A few new faces and a couple of timeless classics is how I would describe my Autumn essentials edit. I’m never far away from my Elizabeth Arden 8 hour lip balm* and use it religiously all year round but with the colder days drawing in my lips are always the first to show signs of needing a little extra TLC. For a similar reason I’m gravitating towards a gloss rather than a really matte lip at the moment, these Bare Minerals glosses* have a great colour pay off and staying power. Never one to neglect my skincare i’m currently loving the Banana eye cream from Ole Henriksen, it’s a product that definitely lives up to the hype and my newest find, is the Kate Somerville Retinol + Vitamin C*. It’s amazing, I literally saw a difference after just a few days of using it. A bit of a classic, the Armani Luminous silk foundation never fails, I used it on my wedding day so it’ll always be a firm favourite. I always make sure i use a good serum AM and PM without fail, I’m currently loving this one by BareMinerals*, a little goes a long way. Finally my go to eyeshadows right now are in the Copper palette by BareMinerals*, the shades are like Autumn in a pan.

Zoe

My makeup and beauty regime stay fairly the same throughout each season but I do tailor different products for specific needs as the weather changes. I’m a very dry and dehydrated little raisin when the colder months roll around, therefore I tend to change up my moisturiser and serums to counter act this. I’ll go for slightly thicker moisturiser like the Embryolisse Cream* and i’m currently using a Lumene Vitamin C Serum* which is brightening my skin wonderfully. I love a good hydrating or vitamin c mask too, which is why i’m obsessed with the Tacha Violet-C Vitamin C Mask* I always notice such a difference when i’ve used this. Makeup wise, I use a slightly heavier foundation as my skin loses it’s summer glow, Nars Sheer Glow* is the perfect balance of coverage whilst still being able to see your skin and have that lovely natural glow. I’ll aslo be much more likely to reach for a berry toned lip too!

Carrie

I tend to keep my makeup fairly simple all year round but probably wear the most at this time of year. My skin is never a huge fan of the weather changing and tends to rebel with both dryness and blemishes (joy!) so Autumn for me requires a heavy moisturiser and a little more coverage than normal. To keep it feeling natural though I stick to more neutral tones, I love cosy brown shades to add a bit of warmth to my face after my summer tan fades.

For a failsafe base I wear a combination of Bobbi Brown’s Skin Longwear foundation*, and Maybelline’s Instant Age Rewind concealer*, both of which stay all day and keep redness (and wintery dark circles) to a minimum. I then add a bit of warmth with my year round favourite Benefit’s Hoola bronzer*.

After that it’s just eyes and brows; Glossier’s Boy Brow* to add a bit of shape to my brows and then a simple eye in a warm brown with a bit of shimmer, this Bobbi Brown mini palette is ideal for that. I line my eyes with MAC’s Kohl in Teddy*, a lovely bronze with a hint of sparkle, and add thick black lashes with Tarte’s Maneater Mascara*. To finish, I’m currently loving MACs Fresh Brew*, the perfect warm toned nude that’s super creamy and pretty long wearing for a nude shade.

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*This post contains affiliate links. For more information and to read our disclosure policy, please click here.

ZOE SUGG NOVEMBER 4, 2019

November Letter from The Editor

It feels only yesterday that I opened up my web browser, typed in blogger.com and created what is now known as “Zoella” (fun fact, it was actually Schoee first, anyone been here since those very early days?)

Fun fact, it was actually Schoee first, anyone been here since those very early days?

It feels only yesterday that I opened up my web browser, typed in blogger.com and created what is now known as “Zoella” (fun fact, it was actually Schoee first, anyone been here since those very early days?). I created an awful collage header in photoshop, and typed out my very first blog post about a little coffee shop I’d visited in Leeds. This was over a decade ago, as a somewhat lost eighteen year old wanting a little place on the internet to talk about the things she loved. I’ve continued to do that into my late twenties across various different platforms and here we are today with a fresh new “Zoella” and I could not be more excited about it .

I’ve always said this will be my “forever” space.

I’ve always said this space will be my “forever” space. Other social medias come and go, but zoella.co.uk will always be here. Although I’ve fallen in and out of love with it over the years, poured every spare moment into it, then abandoned it for long periods of time, I know it will be the first and last place for sharing the things I love and want to document.

If you’re following the Zoella Instagram account, you’ll know that we’ve created more of a community and have expanded on what started as just my casual musings and lush hauls, to the things that not only I share a passion in, but the incredible team behind everything “Zoella” do too. Together, we want to produce even more content for people to enjoy.

There will be plenty of home interiors, food and sugar-filled baking, beauty, style, travel, books and lot’s of lifestyle. One thing we loved doing on the Instagram account is our Tuesday Takeovers, having people sharing their stories and educating others in areas that we show huge interest and passion in but might not have the knowledge to fully divulge in ourselves and we want to allow them this space to share too.

Get cosy and enjoy clicking through all the content!

So, in my absolute FAVOURITE time of year, as the feeling of change is in the air, and the leaves are changing hues of red and brown, I bring you the new “Zoella.co.uk”. Sign up to the newsletter, get cosy and enjoy clicking through all the content!

TEAM ZOELLA NOVEMBER 4, 2019

What to Plant This Season

As Summer draws to a close and the Autumn chill sets in, the green-fingered among us are left wondering what to plant in the garden to get it readied for Spring.

Well, don’t go giving up on your flowerbeds and veggie patches just yet, there’s still plenty of life in her yet.  

Cheers nature, you bobby-dazzler!

Autumn isn’t only the most aesthetically-pleasing season (cheers nature, you bobby-dazzler), it’s also the most favourable time of year to get busy in the garden and plant a variety of beautiful blooms, herbs and vegetables. You just have to know which ones are cut out for the colder clime.

Nothing beats cooking with home-grown herbs and the delicious bunch we’ve listed below are sturdy enough to withstand cooler weather. In fact, Autumn is prime time for planting the hardiest herbs such as parsley and rosemary, whilst your summer herbs can be harvested for tapenades, sauces and soups.

From lilies and bee-friendly wild flowers to blueberries and broccoli, here’s your check list for what to sow and grow in October:

Outdoor Plants/Flowers

Roses | Lilies | Cowslips | White laceflower | Daffodils | Sweet Peas | Tulips Achillea (Summer berries) | Anemone Coronaria | Hyacinths | Snowdrops | Peonies | Pansies | Evergreens

Vegetables

Garlic | Broccoli | Lettuce | Cabbage | Cauliflower | Spinach | Carrots | Radishes | Kale | Onion sets | Broad beans

Herbs

Dill | Chives | Parsley (flat or curled) | Sage | Rosemary | Mint | Thyme | Fennel

Fruit

Strawberries | Blueberries | Currants | Gooseberries

TEAM ZOELLA NOVEMBER 4, 2019

Wellness: Morning Stretches

It’s not always easy to spring out of bed in the morning feeling motivated and ready to seize the day, particularly during the winter months when we all find ourselves needing to catch a few more precious Zs.

Morning stretches are a great way to set you up for the day ahead, improve your mood, increase blood flow and get your body working more efficiently.  There are plenty of simple yoga poses you can incorporate into your morning routine, so fear not – you don’t need to be a professional yogi to join in.

We’ve walked you through 4 feel-good stretches to help ease tension and combat that sluggish AM slump like a boss. Click through the gallery to read instructions for each pose.

Child’s Pose

1. Kneel on the floor. Touch your big toes together and sit on your heels, then separate your heels as wide as your hips.
2. Exhale and lay your torso down between your thighs. Broaden your sacrum across the back of your pelvis and narrow your hip points towards the navel, so that they nestle down onto the inner thighs. Lengthen your tailbone away from the back of your neck.
3. Lay your hands on the floor alongside your torso, palms up and release the fronts of your shoulders towards the floor.

Cobra Pose

1. Lie flat on the floor. Stretch your legs back, keeping the tops of your feet on the floor. Place your hands on the floor under your shoulders. Keep the elbows back into your body.
2. Press the tops of the feet and thighs and the pelvis firmly into the floor.
3. On the inhalation, begin to straighten your arms and lift your chest off the floor, going only to the height at which you can maintain a connection through your pelvis to your legs. Press your tailbone toward your pelvis and lift the pelvis toward your navel. Narrow your hip points.
4. Firm your shoulder blades against your back, puffing your side ribs forward. Lift through the top of your sternum but avoid pushing the front ribs forward, which hardens the lower back.

Downward Dog Pose

1. Stand at the end of your mat and exhale, slowly bending forward to touch your toes. Place your palms flat on the floor, and extend legs back.
2. Push your hips up to the sky, so you make a V shape. It doesn’t matter if your toes don’t touch the floor, just push your hips up as high as you can, inhaling and exhaling slowly.
3. Lower your legs, bringing your knees to the floor and rest your bum on your feet. Stretch out your back and arms into Child’s Pose for a few breaths, and then rise back into Downward Dog.

Pigeon Pose

1. Begin in Downward Dog. Your knees should be right below your hips on the mat. Your hands should be slightly ahead of your shoulders.
2. Raise your right leg so it extends away from you. Slide it forward to the back of your right wrist. Angle your right shin under your torso and bring your right leg to the front of your left knee, behind your left hand. The outside of your right shin should now rest on the floor.
3. Slide your left leg back behind you. Straighten it and let the front of your thigh sit on the floor. Look behind you to make sure your left leg is extended straight behind you, not out to one side.
4. Exhale and lay your torso down over your right leg. Hold this pose for 4-5 breaths. Inhale and rise up. Bend your back leg and reach your opposite arm back. Take hold of the outside of your ankle. If this feels good, hold for 4-5 breaths. Lower and repeat this variation on the opposite side.

TEAM ZOELLA NOVEMBER 4, 2019

Recipe: Cauliflower Tacos

Want to find out how to take ordinary tacos and make them even tastier? Roasted cauliflower, that’s how. Hear us out… Packed with deliciously crunchy florets, drizzled in honey and Sriracha, this tasty twist on a Mexican classic is super easy to throw together. This recipe makes for a quick and healthy mid-week meal, or as a sharing dish for a party. Taco Tuesdays just got even better!

These vegetarian tacos are the perfect thing for gatherings or last minute meals

Do you have friends coming over, but you’re strapped for time or any creative ideas? These vegetarian tacos are the perfect thing for gatherings or last minute meals. They don’t require much skill or time and are always a hit in our houses! In fact we’ve had so many friends asking for the recipe and list of ingredients that we’re almost positive you’ll be coming back here on the regular for the recipe and method.

SERVES 3-4
PREP: COOK:
EASY
Open sidebar INGREDIENTS

Ingredients

You will need:

 

  • Small Soft Tortillas
  • Cauliflower
  • Red Cabbage
  • Honey
  • Garlic Powder/Granules
  • Olive Oil
  • White Wine Vinegar
  • Avocado
  • Sriracha
  • Feta Cheese
  • Salted Tortilla Chips
  • Jalapeños
  • Lime
  • Sour Cream
  • Coriander

For the Cabbage Slaw:

• Finely slice the red cabbage and pop in a small bowl, you won’t need the whole thing, 1/3 is enough!
• Drizzle over olive oil and white wine vinegar
• Sprinkle over with salt and pepper and leave to marinade

For the fillings:

• Cut the cauliflower into small florets and pop into a large bowl
• Coat with olive oil, around 2 tbsp
• Add salt and pepper
• Add 2 tsp of onion granules (or more if you feel you want it)
• Add 2 tsp of honey (again, add more if you want more or are feeding more people)
• Stir until all the cauliflower is evenly coated
• Fry in a pan on a low to medium heat until it starts to brown (this should be a slow process so it doesn’t burn whilst still being crunchy)

For the tacos:
• Heat the tortillas for 10 seconds each side in a frying pan to warm them before serving
• Cut the avocado into slices or little squares for serving
• Chop up a tiny dish of jalapeños and coriander, and place in small dishes on the table alongside sour cream, tortilla chips and feta
• Alongside the Sriracha bottle, place all the prepared ingredients on the table with the stack of warmed tortilla

You can prepare the tacos yourself so people can just grab and go, or allow people to build their own, which is often more fun! Our favourite way to eat them is to grab a tortilla and spread out some cabbage slaw, adding sliced avocado followed by the cauliflower. Crumble a few tortillas over the top before sprinkling over feta, jalapeños and coriander, before drizzling with a healthy dash of sriracha.

We hope you enjoy this recipe! Don’t forget to share and tag us in any posts if you make your own.  

TEAM ZOELLA NOVEMBER 4, 2019

5 Reasons To Get Outdoors This Season

Nature is a pretty spectacular phenomenon, particularly at this time of year when it really comes into its own with the celebration of colour and texture. With that in mind, we're heading outside to appreciate the landscape at its best before the winter chill sets in.

Enjoy the great outdoors in all its beauty. It’s mother nature for the win!

Whether you’re struggling with the work from home lifestyle or you’re feeling restless with the office routine, the chances are you’re not the only one staying cooped up indoors for too long. Clear your weekend schedules, climb into your cosy knits and wellies and enjoy the great outdoors in all its beauty. It’s mother nature for the win! 

Breathe in some fresh air 

Whether we realise it or not, the stresses of urban living can take their toll on our mental health. Getting outside in the fresh air forces us to become more mindful of our surroundings, our breathing and our state of mind. 

Unplug, turn off the TV, leave your phone at home and walk aimlessly in the countryside. Savour the smells, sights and sounds as you become more aware of everything around you. You won’t regret it!

Reconnect with nature

When was the last time you hunted for conkers, or played Pooh sticks in the woods with your friends? Our busy lifestyles demand more and more from us, which is why going for a peaceful stroll and coming back to nature is always a sure-fire way to slow down, anchor your mind and body and restore our mental wellbeing. One look at the benefits of the Japanese practice of ‘forest bathing’ is enough to convince any cynics. 

It boosts productivity 

Getting outside is conducive to productivity. When work is overwhelming, it’s hard to tear yourself away from your laptops and emails, we hear you, but spending time outdoors will actually enhance concentration, alertness and creativity. 

Next time you think you don’t have time to take your lunchbreak, get outside for half an hour and avoid that afternoon slump come 3pm. Better yet, take your work outside if you can or swap your gym session for a run in the park instead. Greenery makes everything better!

You’ll sleep better

Sure, being inside is cosy and everything (hello Netflix) but the blue light emitted by devices such as our phones and tablets can seriously mess with our sleep. 

Our natural circadian rhythm is affected by exposure to direct sunlight so getting outside, even if it doesn’t appear to be particularly sunny, can help balance and synchronise your internal body clock.

Not only will you get a healthy dose of Vitamin D to help fight off the dreaded Winter fatigue, you’ll also enjoy a healthier night’s sleep. Thank you very much, nature!

It feels good!

Put simply, being outside makes you feel happier. Just like any other physical activity, walking releases mood-enhancing endorphins responsible for reducing anxiety and stress. You can head out on your own or round up the family, find a trail and make a day of it. The best things in life are free, right? 

Do you enjoy spending time outside? Let us know what your favourite outdoor activities are in the comment below!

ZOE SUGG NOVEMBER 4, 2019

Beauty Curious: Zoe’s Autumn Makeup

It's that time of year where I start changing up my makeup bag to reflect the new season. To be honest, i'm such a brown-smoky-eyed-gal all year round, but I love to bring out the more orange, rust and burgundy tones come September and i'll definitely be reaching for that berry toned lipstick!

Come September and I’ll definitely be reaching for that berry-toned lipstick!

It’s that time of year where I start changing up my makeup bag to reflect the new season. To be honest, I’m such a brown-smoky-eyed-gal all year round, but I love to bring out the more orange, rust and burgundy tones come September and I’ll definitely be reaching for that berry-toned lipstick! I also feel that alongside boosting my skincare to keep my skin looking fresh and hydrated, I try and do this where possible with my makeup too. Adding that little extra glow with the highlighter, and not forgetting a dusting of bronzer as the summer months start leaving my skin and I start to resemble the ghost of Christmas past. Take a look through the gallery to see the products I’m currently reaching for and loving, and don’t forget to let me know what your autumn makeup go-to products are in the comments!

Face

Nars Sheer Glow Foundation* – If I’m feeling a little bit like my skin needs that extra layer or boost, i’ll always reach for my Nars Sheer Glow foundation. I love the amount of coverage it gives whilst also feeling very light and giving a really healthy glow.

Chanel Cream Bronzer* – I am obsessed with this bronzer for a more dewy look. I lived in this through the summer months and I’m still holding onto it as the weather gets a little colder.

Estee Lauder Bronze Goddess Bronzer * – If i’m not feeling a cream bronzer, I love this powder one by Estee Lauder. They usually bring one out each year within a Bronze Goddess range. I love the colour, the pigmentation and how easy it is to blend!

Nars Wanted Blush Palette * – This is a fairly new edition to my makeup collection but i’m obsessed with it. The Nars blushers are so pretty and the colours are perfect, so i’ve been using a mixture of the colours in this one, the highlight in particular is so beautiful.

Eyes

Stila “After Hours” Eyeshadow Palette * – This palette is perfect for this time of year as it contains all my favourite spicy shades in both shimmer and matte to give you the ultimate eyeshadow look. I find Stila shadows so creamy and pigmented, they’re really good quality.

Victoria Beckham Mini Trio “Tweed” – Again, i’ve been reaching for this on the regular and have especially loved blending the light brown shade all over my lid and underneath my eye for a more subtle but super quick and easy look when I don’t have much time.

Victoria Satin Kajal Eyeliner “Bordeaux”  – This gorgeous, creamy and super pigmented eyeliner is the perfect accompaniment to a brown smoky eye and blends really nicely with the little blender section of the eyeliner.

Pat McGrath Labs Fetish Eyes Mascara * – I’ve been loving this mascara recently, it gives you super black, separated and voluminous lashes and no smudging!

Lips & Brows

Anastasia Beverly Hills Dip Brow Pomade “Medium Brown” * – This has been my go-to for brows for a long time now. I use an angled brush and fill in any patches I might have and create more of a fullness.

Stila Liquid Lipstick “Chianti” – If i’ve kept my eyes quite neutral, I love a deep berry lip this time of year. One of my favourite formulations being a matte liquid lipstick and Stila have nailed this so well. I have so many different shades and they last so well throughout the day.

Tarte Quick Dry Matte Lip Paint “Bestie” * – For a more neutral lip when i’ve gone more smoky on the eyes, I love this shade by Tarte. Again, they have great a formulation and there so many shades of this lipstick.

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*This post contains affiliate links. For more information and to read our disclosure policy, please click here.

TEAM ZOELLA NOVEMBER 4, 2019

Weekly Wants: Cold Weather Outfits

Dear sweater weather, we welcome you with open knit-cladded arms, you cosy rascal you! Whilst the colder temp might not be everyone's idea of fun, the cosy layers, trench coats, neck-swaddling jumpers and warm boots make it a slightly more bearable (and wearable) adventure.

If you feel like you’re caught in a sartorial blizzard with no idea who you are as a person or how to dress yourself, fear not. We’ve got your back and we’ll help you clothe it, too.

This is our definitive guide to the cold weather staples we’re lovin’ and, in the interest of staying warm this Winter, adding to our baskets immediately.

Carrie

“I love my autumn/winter wardrobe the most of all, and despite worrying I spend most of the season looking like the Ikea monkey, I’ve learned to embrace the layers because above all, being warm and comfy is the most important thing!”

Bershka Biker Jacket

Wednesday’s Girl via ASOS Striped Jumper*

Levi’s via ASOS 501 Crop Jeans*

Dorothy Perkins via Next Biker Boots*

Oasis Brushed via Next Check Scarf*

Danielle

“I run hot and I still think it’s quite mild in Brighton come November so I’m afraid my outfit consists of ankles out and no proper coat, however, I do love to layer! This fit is feminine, classic and cool, three things I always try and ooze.”

InTheStyle Beige Trench Coat*

Weekday White Tee*

ASOS Noisy May Denim Shirt*

ASOS Design Tapered Leather Look Trousers*

ASOS Design Green Loafers*

Holly

“I love to layer and Cold Weather Outfits are my favourite, they’re so cozy! But they’re often quite dull and I love a bit of colour. So would go for something a bit brighter than the usual monotone colours. Can’t beat classic Jeans and a hoodie with an oversized coat and some chunky boots.”

Boohoo Oversized Teddy Faux Fur Jacket*

Next Black Jeans*

New Look Black Hoodie*

Dr Martens Patent Rainbow Boots

Lauren

“I do love my layers come autumn/winter, any excuse to tuck in and keep every bit of cold out! I’m traditionally a jumper and jeans gal, but I’m trying to switch up my style more and this jumpsuit is a gorgeous colour and fit (can pop a thermal or two on underneath), and I do like to co-ordinate so a matching purple beret is a must. I’m really into belted wrap coats at the mo, and this is a nice dark brown which can dress up any outfit for any occasion too – feels like a dressing gown but for outside! Finally, I’m back on the boots and I’ve been eyeing up these Doc Martens as they look hardy for the winter but still chunky and cool 😎”

People Tree Pansy Jumpsuit*

Lareese

“I’m one of those annoying people who love to love autumn/winter. I just find getting dressed so much easier! My cold weather outfit usually consists of a trusty knit with some vintage jeans or wide leg trews layered under an oversized jacket or wooly coat. A scarf always gives the illusion you’ve got your shit together too, even if you did call the nice man at the coffee shop mum this morning.”

H&M Polo Neck Top in White*

H&M Wide Trousers*

Topshop Check Shacket*

Good News via Our Daily Edit Brown Trainers

ASOS Design Brown Scarf*

Maddie

“I always wondered how people layer nice looking outfits in Autumn/Winter without freezing their butts off and the secret is THERMALS. You can still just about wear that cute jacket or blazer so long as you’ve got sufficient on underneath. Once you’ve got the warmth under control you’re free to wear whatever you want (within reason). Pop one of the HeatTech tops on, a smart wool jumper, a more tailored blazer over top and team it with a pair of gorgeous black ankle boots and you’ll look put together and cosy even on the coldest days.”

UNIQLO Thermal Turtleneck Top in White

UNIQLO Thermal Crew Neck in Black

andotherstories Oversized Wool Blend Sweater*

andotherstories Oversized Beige Blazer*

Zara Oversized Houndstooth Blazer

Topshop Joni Jeans in Black

Acne Studios via Net-a-Porter Jensen Ankle Boots*

Zoe

“I love this time of year because layering clothes is my favourite thing to do – I like the accessories, with hats and scarves and cute little gloves! The minute there is a chill in the air, my head is happiest under a bobble hat of some sort. If I’m going somewhere where I need to be 100% sure I’ll stay warm, I love a fun chequered trouser (with tights underneath if it’s REALLY cold) with a plain hoody, layered with a relaxed slouchy coat and paired with chunky black boots! (and the hat obviously)”

ASOS Sharktooth Tapered Trousers*

Topshop Black Ankle Boots*

Monki via ASOS Grey Hoodie*

Topshop Black Longline Coat*

Zoella Lifestyle Bobble Hat and Mug

Let us know which Winter warmers you’ve got your eye on at the moment!

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TEAM ZOELLA NOVEMBER 4, 2019

Zoe’s Autumn Porch Styling

Changing up your home décor seasonally is a quick and easy way to reinvent your space. You can add plenty of autumnal touches throughout your home with cosy textures, warm tones, dried florals and spice scented candles.

my attempt at getting that perfect american-style autumnal display outside my door seems to double in it’s extra-ness

“Each year, my love of porch styling grows and grows and my attempt at getting that perfect american-style autumnal display outside my door seems to double in it’s extra-ness. This year, I contacted a friendly local farm (Tulleys in West Sussex) and asked them if I could have a few hay bales and bundles of cut corn, of which they very kindly let me have (along with a mountain of pumpkins). I was also given this perfect door mat from a friend, and whipped out my huge autumn wreath that I purchased from Homesense years ago to pop on the door. Not only is it so fun to get creative and get your style on, it’s always hugely appreciated by your local delivery people and every evening you come home, it just puts the biggest smile on your face!” – Zoe

Changing up your home décor seasonally is a quick and easy way to reinvent your space. You can add plenty of autumnal touches throughout your home with cosy textures, warm tones, dried florals and spice scented candles.

We’re kicking off the Autumn makeover with the outside space because where we’re coming from, there’s no better way to wow your guests and neighbours than with a perfectly styled porch.

Seasonal wreaths, a cute gang of gourds and a celebration of colour will go a long way and set the tone for your Autumn abode, right before your friends and family have even walked through the front door.

Gone are the days when wreaths were left firmly in the Christmas department, dusted off for the month of December and boxed away again until the following year. Now, every season brings with it a new opportunity to style the front of your house and we are here for it. Spring, Easter, Summer, you name it!

There’s plenty of independent floral creatives and florists running wreath workshops out there if you fancy trying your hand at making your own. Creating something unique and handmade for your home makes it extra special and working with nature is always good for the soul.

rustic and undone is often the best way to go when it comes to wreaths

You don’t have to be a master of flowers to get crafty, just let your imagination run wild. It really doesn’t have to look perfectly uniform – rustic and undone is often the best way to go when it comes to wreaths. Go all out maximalism with bold colours and texture or keep it understated Scandi with a refined creation.

There’s a whole wealth of online resources if you want to go all-out DIY and make your wreath from the comfort of your own kitchen table with mugs of tea on tap.

Even if you’re not that crazy about all the orange and brown hues, you can always buck the trend and go for bright statement colours over the earthy palette for your porch décor instead.

If low key is more your style, opt for pared-back neutral accessories with white ghost pumpkins, fluffy dried reeds or corn stalks and gold accents for something that feels classic and grown-up but still undeniably Autumn.

Go big or go home!

Metallic spray paint is also a quick and easy way to glam up your ‘kins and foliage or you can paint them with chalkboard paint and write a message on them. For extra Pinterest-worthy oomph, you can even add in bales of hay and a slogan doormat, too. Go big or go home!

There’s no shortage of ways to style up your doorstep décor, so have fun with it. Just in the same way as you’d style a living room shelf, you can faff around with your display to your heart’s content, swapping and shifting items around until you’re happy with the arrangement.

Our top tip? Symmetry, symmetry, symmetry. Whether you arrange your pumpkins together in mini bundles, line them up singularly either side of the steps or dot them around at various heights, creating a balanced display is sure to make your porch look put together.

We hope you’re feeling suitably pumped to style your porch for Autumn after that. Let us know how you like to decorate your home for Autumn in the comments below!