After a long and limp year of social distanced everything, dating IRL is gradually coming back to us. Fire up the dating apps (and your burning lockdown loins ofc), love and super likes are not cancelled guys.

When it comes to dating apps, it’s wild out there and like most things in life, it’s not one size fits all. Maybe you’re newly single and don’t know where to start or who to swipe, or perhaps you’re stuck in a romance rut and looking to expand your digital dating horizons – whatever your reason for landing here, you’re destined to walk away with a match. Still talking about dating apps FYI, not lovers. Sorry, we’re not that good.

Let’s not waste another hot vax summer minute! From OG faves to game-changing newcomers, here are the dating apps that make using up all your valuable storage space totally worth it.

Tinder

Founded in 2013 to help students meet each other, it started out as a social networking for both friendship and dating. My oh my, how things escalated. Tinder is now best known for casual meet-ups and bedfellows but that’s not to say you can’t find long-term love there, too. It’s particularly good for anyone looking to stick to the local love interests, be it the cute coffee guy or the distinguished gentleman on the train. Suit. Nice watch. Neat nails. Great taste in pens. Yeah, him.

A quick note on the post-Tinder life. If you do find a forever match on there, you’ll need to delete your profile and the app for your dating profile to fully disappear otherwise you’ll still be out there looking for love, according to Tinder.

Best for: keeping it casual.

Bumble

Created by women for women, it’s all power to the ladies in this hive. Praise be.

Much like Tinder, it’s a location-based app where daters can swipe through potential suitors – right means yes you like what you see, left means thank you, next. When both parties swipe right, a match is made, but – and here’s the cool part – it’s down to the woman to make the first move. She must send a message within 24-hours or (dramatic music) the match is lost. With same-sex matches, either person can make the first move. You can also determine the age range of people you want to match with as well as a radius.

Another cool feature on Bumble is the option to ‘verify’ yourself to prove you are who you say you are and prevent catfishing. This is done by taking a photo of yourself in a specific pose. Bumble then verifies that photo against the other photos you’ve uploaded and provides you with a blue tick once it decides you are the same person.

Best for: women who want to make the first move and relationship-minded people.

OkCupid

This OG dating app has been around since 2004. Its USP? Getting you noticed for who you are, not what you look like. In 2021, it shouldn’t be that ground-breaking, alas it is.

It’s also the most inclusive of all the apps, with 22 gender identities and 20 orientation options for members to choose from. OkC weeds out the users who would not be compatible for you, based on important deal-breaker questions covering everything from gun-crime and climate change to women’s issues and vaccines. No small talk here, they’re going straight for the subject matter we really care about. We love to see it!

When you’re done with mindless swiping, OkCupid’s the app to tap.

Best for: informed millennials.

Thursday

Thursday is reinventing the way we date by dedicating one day a week to finding romance. On the other six days of the week, it quite literally tells you to f*ck off because there’s more to life than dating apps. How refreshing.

In true Cinderella style, all matches and conversations disappear at the stroke of midnight, so you have to be proactive if you want to secure a date. It’s currently only available for users in London and New York with plans to roll out to Birmingham, Cardiff, Liverpool, Glasgow, Manchester and Dublin later this year.

Best for: Swerving the small talk and getting sh*t done.

Her

Her was created by and for queer women and non-binary people. Much like Tinder, you swipe left if you’re not interested and right if you want to get to know someone. Even if you’re not looking to date someone right now per se, Her is the perfect platform to meet a community of like-minded people and chat LGBTQ+ news and events in a safe and respectful space.

Best for: LGBTQ+ dating.

Jigsaw

Jigsaw is disrupting the superficial status quo by covering people’s faces with jigsaw pieces so their personality can do the talking. Clever stuff. Only when you swap messages and really connect with someone will the jigsaw pieces fall away revealing the face behind the conversation. Kinda like a 90s game show.

Best for: anyone frustrated with the superficial nature of online dating.

Playdate

The UK’s first dating app catering solely to single parents. Dating as a single parent can be daunting but Playdate allows solo mums and dads to find meaningful connections and relationships which work alongside their lifestyle and commitments.

This dating app takes the stress out of dating, facilitating connections with fellow single parents who know the responsibility that comes with being a parent first-hand. You can be matched with other single parents based on the filters you choose, whether it’s location, number and age of children, fellow widows or whether they want to have more children or not. It also makes arranging dates that little bit easier with its integrated babysitting service in partnership Bubble, the UK’s number one sitter and nanny app.

Best for: single parents looking for a long-term meaningful relationship.

Feeld

Aimed at open-minded individuals interested in a bit of kink, Feeld is the dating platform designed to explore your deepest desires without shame. Colloquially known as ‘the threesome app’, it’s a sex-positive space for curious minds to explore their sexuality and tap into their fantasies, safely with boundaries and consent.

Best for: anyone open to group play or anything beyond the vanilla.

POM

Forget the power of love, this app is all about the power of beats. POM (Power of Music) uses your music library to match you with fellow users based on compatibility, so now you can find a soul mate who’s well and truly on your wavelength. It’s at times like this we really regret the fact that we listen to Hilary Duff So Yesterday once a week.

Best for: anyone looking to meet their musical match.

Hinge

In their words, Hinge is the dating app designed to be deleted. It puts the meaning back into the match-making process and prioritises finding real, genuine, warm-the-cockles-of-your-heart connection.

You’ll get to know potential dates through personality-revealing prompts from their go-to karaoke song to their love language, immediately breaking the ice and making those initial awkward conversations that little bit easier.

Your pool of potential matches is gleaned from your Facebook account which means there’s a pretty good chance you, or at least someone you know, will be familiar with your match. Bye bye stranger danger.

Best for: witty types with funny bones.

Curtn

For anyone who doesn’t feel comfortable rushing out to date in person, you’ve got a match right here. Curtn is a video-first dating app that allows users to connect in a more authentic way, beyond filtered photos and small talk. It’s all about honest dating, sharing your authentic self and getting a real sense of the person on the other side of the screen. Simply choose a prompt and hit record to start finding matches.

Best for: interactive vibes.

Happn

Banking on a meet-cute? Happn is your best chance of brushing shoulders with that hot DPD driver or making that intense eye contact in queue at the post office actually go somewhere. The app is designed for you to meet someone close-by but rather than trying to figure out a way to cobble together a sentence in real life, you can just do it digitally right here. What a relief.

Best for: convenience and laid-back dating.

Grindr

Grindr is marketed as the social networking app for “gay, bi, trans and queer people” though it’s mostly frequented by gay men. Whilst it’s best known for its hook-up culture, it’s not impossible to find a LTR or meet your forever person on there. Just know that it really excels at the quick and casual thing.

Much like Tinder, users are able to search for potential dates around their area so if you spot a hottie in a mask at the bus stop and you immediately want to see what lies beneath, consider Grindr the best place to begin your search, my friend.

Best for: we’re just gonna come out and say it… hot gay sex.

Raya

Think private members club frequented by famous folk and influencers. Basically, the Soho House of dating apps, without the picante. It’s an invite-only app with a highly selective application process. You also need a referral from someone else already on the app via a ‘friend’s pass’ so it’s not exactly the most user-friendly experience but it comes in handy for professional athletes, renowned CEOs and A-listers.

Best for: the rich ‘n’ famous. Oh, and stans.

Let’s be real, Cottagecore never really left the special place it found in our heart’s back in 2020, but the trend really does show no signs of slowing does as whimsical puff sleeves are IN right now. Whilst last summer you were wafting around the house twiddling your thumbs and wondering how many takeaways was too many takeaways, this time around you can waft OUTSIDE, with friends, and look fabulous doing so! 

Dreamy pastels are normally never far away when it comes to puff sleeves, as their romantic, feminine feel is a match made in heaven with the likes of an Easter egg colour palette- add in some gingham and you’re really onto a winner! Having said that, brands such as Rixo who favour a more statement colour wheel also nail puff sleeve drama too, proving the trend need not be exclusively for those who drool at the sight of pastel pink everything upon entering the shops. 

Serving peak bottomless brunch realness, keep scrolling for the creme de la creme of puff sleeve offerings!

*This post contains ad-affiliate links

As a team of Beth O’Leary stans, we’re never not waiting for her to write another book. Luckily for us (and you) she just has and true to form, it’s bloody glorious stuff.

The Road Trip is a sexy, page-turning, uproariously funny gem of a book, complete with a full tank of characters so expertly made, you’re convinced you’ve met them on a hard shoulder somewhere in a previous life.

Mistress of feel-good fiction and queen of Up Lit – a book trend with empathy and kindness at its core – there’s no one we’d rather get stuck in a car with tbh. Addie, Dylon, Marcus and Deb were in v good hands here.

Laced with that signature O’Leary wit and dynamite dialogue, you could say The Road Trip is Beth’s best work yet, and if you’ve read The Flatshare and The Switch, then you’ll know that’s a pretty bold statement to make.

Read the team’s reviews and block out a couple of hours in the diary to sit down with O’Leary’s latest drop because trust us, that’s all you’ll need.

Purchase the Road Trip here and cue the book hangover.

Danielle

To chalk up Beth O’leary’s books as “chick lit” would be doing yourself the biggest disservice. I can’t explain to you how much I love her writing, each novel is like if Richard Curtis and Nora Ephron made a story baby and The Road Trip is no exception, in fact, it’s my favourite so far. Dylan and Addie are so flipping loveable and listening to their story unfold was perfection, giving lots of detail and still leaving me wondering what happened?! Just like her other books each character is SO well written you feel like you know them inside out by the time you’ve finished. Marcus gave me huge Spencer from the early days of Made in Chelsea vibes and I wanted to be Deb’s best friend. There are twists, turns, and so much relatable humour packed into The Road Trip even though it’s a big book you’ll finish it in no time at all. Beth wastes no time on long indulgent landscape descriptions and packs her word count into witty real conversations that really lend themselves to audible, with Dylan narrated by Josh Dylan and Addie narrated by Eleanor Tomlinson (of Angus Thongs and Perfect Snogging fame) and they played them both perfectly. This book is such a comfort I think I’ll listen to it again and again.

Rating: 5/5
Would you recommend it: TO EVERYONE!

Lareese

If Beth O’Leary hadn’t already cemented herself as one of my favourite authors of all time, she’s really gone and done it now. Something about Addie’s character and her mannerisms reminded me of Marianne from Normal People and you can sense that Beth really poured a lot of love, time and life into her. The Road Trip is the sexiest of Beth O’Leary’s novels so far and whilst I haven’t come to expect that nor need that from Beth’s writing, it was deftly handled here and if anything just cemented the fact that she is one of the best contemporary novelists of our time. This story is perfectly paced, ridiculously readable and sizzling with heartache and humour in equal measure. It’s going straight in my top 5! I can’t wait to read whatever Beth writes next… a shopping list, a weekly meal plan – I’ll read anything by her at this point.

Rating: 5/5
Would you recommend it: If you don’t read it, we can’t be friends

Darcey

Wow Beth O’Leary did not disappoint with this one! I have always been a huge fan of Beth’s work, so I was super excited to get stuck into The Road Trip. This book is just so relatable! I mean, your ex-boyfriend and the friend who drove a wedge between you crashing into your car is probably a very rare occurrence, but I’m sure it’s happened before to someone! But, we’ve all had moments of awkwardness with someone (usually an ex or someone you’ve dated) being in the same place as you, so I felt for Addie!

This book wasn’t as lighthearted as Beth’s previous novels, exploring much more complex issues and serious subjects discussed. But I actually quite liked this as it shows development and it was nice to read about a love story which isn’t all sunshine and rainbows you know? It reflected real life and real issues many of us face. This book gave me Normal People vibes, I think that’s why I enjoyed it so much! Would absolutely recommend reading The Road Trip, the perfect accompaniment for any future holidays!

Rating: 4.5/5
Would you recommend: Yes!

Holly

I absolutely loved the past 2 Beth O’Leary books so I couldn’t wait to get my hands on the Road Trip. I think I loved it so much because it just feels so relatable. We’ve all been in those awkward situations with someone you don’t want to be in a confined space with. The way Addie was written it felt like I could physically feel what she was feeling. Beth O’Leary did such a great job writing from 2 different peoples perspectives. If I didn’t know better I would have said that Dylan and Addie were written by different authors. The story is also told in both past and present timelines which just gave the story such depth and really understand why their relationship broke down. I really enjoyed the secondary characters and the subplots too. I kind of wish I’d been in the car! Would definitely recommend and Beth O’Leary has a lifelong fan in me.

Rating: 4.5/5
Would you Recommend: Yes 100%

Charlotte

Beth O’Leary can do NO WRONG in my eyes. This book is one of my favourites in such a long time and one that 100% got me through the last stint of restricted socialising, making staying in all the more appealing. I loved the format of flitting back and forth in time and oh my god did those French scenes get the pulse racing. Maybe it’s because we’re all craving a holiday more than ever but I could literally feel the sunshine and heat of the summer through this book’s pages and it only added to the steamy romance which I 1000% agree with Lareese felt exactly like Marianne and Connell! The concept of the and initial car crash is such a simple idea, but don’t be fooled as the book is full of intricacy, raw, real emotion and relatability that it’s impossible not to connect to.

O’Leary’s storytelling is truly unmatched and her ability to capture the flaws and shortcomings of friendship, love and lust is remarkable. Much like Normal People, The Road Trip captures complex feelings that tug at the heartstrings and leave you constantly turning the page for more. I would love a sequel to this! I had such a soft spot for Marcus even though he was insufferable at times, and again this dynamic felt so real as most of us have experienced the difficulties that can sometimes come with the friends of a S/O. Despite it all, I think Addie and Dylan are what we all seek from a relationship- true understanding, love, care and a willingness to keep going. I wish I was in their friendship group!

Rating 5/5
Would you recommend: yes, 100%!

First off, how are you and how is your 2021 going?

I’m pretty well. I’m in a great space spiritually and mentally. 2021 has brought many great opportunities my way with the catalyst being my book All Boys Aren’t Blue. I’m excited about how my work is now expanding beyond publishing into film and tv spaces, and looking forward to doing more work throughout 2021.

We’re super excited to be reading All Boys Aren’t Blue for our June Book Club, can you tell us about the process for writing this memoir-manifesto?

The process wasn’t easy. I wanted to tell all the stories but had to pick the ones that best fit the overall themes of the book. I decided that I wanted to be as vulnerable and transparent as possible in telling this story. That caused me to have to open up old wounds and heal certain traumas I hadn’t gotten over. But in the end, I knew it was important for the total story to be told.

Can you tell us more about becoming a journalist and how your career as a writer started?

My career in writing started back in 2013. My best friend Preston Mitchum had written an article for Ebony magazine and I told him “I always wanted to be a writer”. He looked at me and said “well write.” Since that day I decided to do that. Realistically, if went searching for something and couldn’t find it, then I knew that I had to be the one to write it. I focused on the communities closest to my intersections and simply built upon that into my career.

Your next book We Are Not Broken is coming out in September what can readers expect?

They can expect to hear more of the heartwarming stories of a Black family that operated from a place of love. My grandmother “Nanny” was a show stealer in my first book, so I wanted to give people more of her story. She is represented in every chapter of the book. I also took the letter writing technique up a notch in a really cool way. It’s a book about Black boyhood, imagination and the totality of the existence of the Black child.

We love that you write about gender identity, toxic masculinity, consent, marginalization and so much more through your own stories. Why do you think story telling through personal experience is so powerful?

People like when they can connect with a character. It makes it even better when the character is a real person. People get to see themselves in someone and even more the possibility model of what can become. The personal experience is part of the human condition and is what ties us today.

Your books have the ability to inspire, change and possibly save lives, is that something you set out to achieve?

Yes. I try to write in the mindset of centering Black people first, knowing that the message will essentially be universal and benefit all. I wish I had books like this when I was learning about who I was. My story isn’t unique. It is one that has always existed but rarely given the space and access to be told. So I knew putting it out there would resonate with those who needed it with the goal of shifting actions and thoughts and minds.

What are you currently working on?

Whew. My second book “We Are Not Broken” comes out September 7^th. I am also working on a non-fiction book where I will be writing letters to my enslaved ancestors. Working on my first fiction Middle-Grade book called Five Second Violation. Also working on the tv adaptation of All Boys Aren’t Blue with Gabrielle Union’s production company. And some stuff I can’t say yet lol.

Can you share any tips for people who are keen to write personal essays?

To keep writing. It can be very easy to get deterred from writing. You simply have to keep writing. No two stories are the same. My book is a book of personal essays and although they resonate with thousands of people, their stories are still different and deserve to be told.

Who are some of your current favourite authors?

Hari Ziyad, Robert Jones, and Sesali Bowen. Loved all their work prior to their book releases and they have all created some amazing debut books this year.

What does your perfect weekend look like?

I’m a lowkey person in many ways so for me the perfect weekend is the beach with some friends. Drinks, games, and maybe some dancing. Not doing any work for sure lol.

What do you always carry with you?

Phone, Keys, Wallet. I do the pat down before I walk out the door lol.

What would your last ever meal be?

It would likely be seafood, Alaskan Crab Legs, Lobster in garlic butter, mussels and shrimp.

What is one positive piece of advice you could give to our audience?

Have grace with yourself. We can all be so self-critical at times that we forget to give ourselves space to right, wrong, indifferent, happy or sad. It’s okay to not be okay at times. So have grace with yourself.

Dream wardrobe incoming: one scroll of the & Other Stories website and boom, your basket is full, you have 5 packages en route and your bank manager is on the phone wondering what the f*ck is going on. Their irresistible combination of design influences from Paris, L.A and Stockholm means they nail new-in, on-trend yet classic styles every time, and you can shop safe in the knowledge that you can’t go far wrong where & Other Stories is concerned. 

This week the team are running you through their favourite ‘add to basket’ picks as the dreaminess of June 21st approaches and hugs, kisses, parties and picnics become the new, ‘new normal’. Insert all the heart eye emojis.

Charlotte

& Other Stories isn’t usually my go-to shopping destination (as much as I would love it to be, alas the price point says otherwise) but their site is a dream to browse and the Scandi ‘fits make my heart skip a beat. I love the simplicity of their clothes and how effortless they feel, which is one thing that drew me to these linen shorts which I think are such a summer essential. I’m a sucker for all things pink, hence my other two picks which are tres beautiful. I’m gearing up for beach season and a solid bikini you can rely on and hair clip to shove up your sun cream filled strands is must, and the colour of this one is so lovely.

*And Other Stories, Cropped Knit Top, £45

*And Other Stories, Glossy Mini Hair Grip, £8

*And Other Stories, Drawstring Shorts, £45

*And Other Stories, Fitted Puff Sleeve Mini Dress, £55

*And Other Stories, Seersucker Bandeau Bikini Top, £27

Danielle

& Other Stories isn’t the most size inclusive brand but what they lack in that department they make up for with very well made accessories and beauty products. I always feel like getting their products is a bit of a treat and you get what you pay for as it certainly lasts longer than most high-street brands. I’ve chosen some fun summer accessories, the perfect beach tote with a scarf to tie on for a bit of spice, cool cat-eye sunnies, a pretty shell bracelet, lush heeled sandals to dress up a casual beach dress and I’d love to give this face and body highlighter a go for evenings on holiday.

*And Other Stories, Large Woven Straw Tote, £55

*And Other Stories, Angular Cat Eye Sunglasses, £23

*And Other Stories, Heeled Leather Square Toe Sandal, £85

*And Other Stories, Seashell Pendant Chain Bracelet, £13

*And Other Stories, Colour Block Printed Satin Scarf, £29

*And Other Stories, Face And Body Dew, £27

Darcey

And Other Stories aren’t the most inclusive brand and so I struggle to buy anything from the waist down from there a lot, but they have a lot of very cute tops and being a C cup means I get to enjoy these ha! I’m obsessed with cropped shirts at the moment and they have a lovely wrap around one. Also, they are so good for accessories and especially handbags! I am loving these orange squared sunglasses, they are perfect for Summer.

*And Other Stories, Boxy Knit Tank Top, £45

*And Other Stories, Buttoned Tie Detail Crop Top, £55

*And Other Stories, One Shoulder Top, £35

*And Other Stories, Croc Embossed Leather Shoulder Bag, £120

*And Other Stories, Rectangular Frame Sunglasses, £27

Holly

There are so many pieces I love on & Other Stories at the moment. The clothes don’t tend to go up to my size but I have chosen this dress which I absolutely love and it’s flow so I think I could get away with it. The accessories are where my heart lies though, so many beautiful pieces and the best quality.

*And Other Stories, Curved Open Hoop Earrings, £17

*And Other Stories, Puff Sleeve Jacquard Mini Dress, £95

*And Other Stories, Square Neck Technical Bodysuit, £29

*And Other Stories, Linen Hair Scrunchie, £8

*And Other Stories, Short Leather Crossbody Bag, £165

Lareese

If there’s one thing Stories does well, it’s wardrobe staples and accessories so I’ve loaded up on all my summer essentials from padded duvet sandals to linen sets. I’m a big fan of their beauty range too – the whole collection smells insane, it’s a pretty good price point and the branding is gorg. I haven’t tried the face and body dew yet so that’s going straight in my basket because ya girl is 30 now and she needs all the help she can get in the glow department.

*And Other Stories, Padded Strap Leather Flip Flops, £85

*And Other Stories, Linen Drawstring Shorts, £45

*And Other Stories, Short Sleeve Shirt, £55

*And Other Stories, Floral Embroidery Underwire Bra, £29

*And Other Stories, Gingham Seersucker Swimsuit, £55

*And Other Stories, Sicilian Sunrise Eau de Toilette, £28

*And Other Stories, Face And Body Dew, £27

*This post contains ad-affiliate links

As at-home activities go, we can safely say we’ve peaked with the CAST jewellery making experience. The humble diy flower crown is cancelled, guys.

CAST, a company based in Sheffield and owned by brothers James and Luke Cottingham, offers bespoke jewellery making experiences across the UK, from public events to private hen dos, team building sessions and wedding ring workshops for couples.

The second element of CAST is the bespoke jewellery making kits, designed for all those people who prefer to get creative in their own time and in the comfort of their own home. It’s genius.

The bespoke jewellery making kit is £29 and contains everything you need to design and create your very own jewellery at home, including shaping tools, sandpaper, wax moulds and a tin and freepost envelope so your design can reach the team safely, ready for casting.

You don’t need any experience but if you find yourself stuck for ideas, you can always check out the Makers Table section on CAST’s Instagram or website for tips and design inspo.

Whether you want to make a signet ring, a hammered coin pendant, earrings or cufflinks, the possibilities are endless. The more unique and special to you, the better!

Once you’re happy with your piece, you simply fill out the online form and send your piece off to the CAST experts. There’s also an opportunity to add in your ring size, metal and choice of finish.

Every piece then goes through a strict ancient process of lost wax casting by the silversmithing team and is finished by hand in solid silver, platinum or gold. Prices for casting the jewellery start from £60 for a single wax jewellery piece weighing upto 1.5g in wax. You can also select optional extras such as engraving, gold plating and stone setting.

Not only do you get the opportunity to switch off and make some magic, you also get a piece of jewellery designed and carved by you, for you. Buzzing!

You can find out more about the CAST experience and jewellery making kits here!

And because we couldn’t resist having a go at it ourselves, you can see the team’s CAST creations below!

Holly says…

I bloody love getting crafty and I would go as far as to say this is my favourite activity so far. The whole experience was just great. The guys who run its were so friendly and it was just like friends hanging out. I sometimes worry that zoom calls and classes will be awkward but this wasn’t awkward at all. We were on the call for over 2 hours and it absolutely flew by.

I decided to make a ring because I want to have some that I like and want to wear every day. I engraved all my families names in to it so it means something too. I can’t say I was great at it but I really enjoyed it.

I have giant sausage fingers and got a bit carried away when I was trying to make the ring bigger and made it too big. The guys were so helpful and made it a tiny bit smaller so it wouldn’t slip of, I would have cried if I’d lost it after 700 hours making it.

I couldn’t stop, I kept adding to it afterwards so it actually took me about a month to sign up in the end. I opted for a gold finish in a kind of worn style, if that’s what you call it? And actually love how it came out. I genuinely think this would make a great gift for someone and love the idea of making wedding bands for each other.

Lareese says…

For someone who writes and takes photos for a living, you’d think I’d have creative bones but for whatever reason, crafting and me have never hit it off, so I had to manage my expectations of my jewellery making abilities. I wasn’t exactly confident I’d be up to the task of creating something I could realistically ya know, wear with pride. I have a hard time drawing a star (true story) let alone chiselling something from wax with my own barely functioning hands. Luckily for me Luke and James were pretty pro imperfection when it comes to making unique pieces of jewellery, which bodes well for this clumsy girl.

The bespoke kit is beautifully presented with all kinds of fancy utensils – the jewel blade slightly terrified me at first but if I can use it without hacking a finger off, you’ll be fine. For £29 I think it’s a pretty good deal for the quality tools you’re getting. Plus, you can carry on making jewellery time and time again, just order some more wax refills for 50p and job’s a good’un.

I found the process of sanding away at the wax and seeing the design take shape really calming. I was in the zen zone! In terms of the making side of things, it was much easier than I thought it would be, which speaks volumes because, did I mention, I’m outrageously bad at crafts. Now I’m not saying my creation is Hatton Garden worthy or anything but that’s kind of the point. I wanted to create something a bit battered and irregular (like its mother) and I think it’s going to come into its own when it’s been through the casting process.

I love that you can create anything you set your mind to with CAST – from wedding rings to sentimental keepsakes or even a blooming croissant ring if you so wished – I did wish very much so but without exhausting this self-deprecating memoir I’m writing here, I think that would have been a little bit ambitious. You don’t need to be an expert, you just have to have fun with it.

I can’t wait to see the finished result and wear a piece of jewellery I designed and made myself, all in the comfort of my own pad. I’ll definitely be making another piece in the future. Thank you to the lovely CAST team for making it happen!

Charlotte says…

I would consider myself a relatively creative person but for some reason my brain really struggles with tactile things like this, as I learnt the hard way during my art GCSEs in which my vision rarely translates IRL, haha! I absolutely love jewellery though, and especially rings, so I was so excited at the prospect of this lovely evening activity with the team, and it certainly did not disappoint!

I was definitely a little intimidated when I first opened up the box as the different tools and materials looked v professional for an extreme newbie, but the CAST guys were so wonderful and knowledgeable that it definitely helped me feel at ease. The team shared one of their Pinterest boards at the beginning of the session which was really helpful as it is quite easy to feel a bit overwhelmed with just how many possibilities there are in terms of the direction you want to take your design in. I decided on a simple band design for my ring (managing expectations of my abilities early on) and shaping, adjusting and fitting the ring was really therapeutic actually! It’s the perfect mindful activity to be focused on and feel very ‘in the moment’ whilst also allowing for a glass of wine (optional!) and chat with the group too.

I decided to melt some wax too and give that a go, adding some small bead-like textures to the front of the ring which looks super simple but I think once CAST will be quite chic (hopefully) and classic. I’m opting for a gold finish as I’m definitely a gold lover through and through and I can’t wait to see how this more personal, unique 

Danielle says…

Normally when we do crafty things as a team I have grand illusions of how it will turn out, try-hard for about 10 minutes, then mess it up and just decide to have fun and make a mess instead. But because I love jewellery – specifically rings – so much, I put my all into this one so I could create something I can wear and wouldn’t leave in a box for years to come!

The box came beautifully packaged with some really high-end tools, I couldn’t wait to get stuck in. To kick things off we had to sand the inside of our rings to fit our fingers, I wanted one for my index finger as this is my chunkiest finger and always harder to find rings for. Sanding down the hole was time-consuming but super easy and I realised what a good opportunity it is to get a perfectly sized ring.

I started chipping away at the ring to get it a bit thinner and realised I loved the hammered effect so I kept on chipping and sanded down the edges so it wasn’t as sharp. I wanted to keep my band quite long like a cigarette band as apposed to something thin and dainty. I haven’t received my ring back yet but I’m super excited to see how it turns out.

I’d highly recommend using CAST if you’re looking to get into jewellery making, and it would also make a great activity for an event or party. I’ve done so many hen do activities in the past that cost so much money, doing something like this where people can go away with something they will actually want to keep is perfect!

Darcey says…

I don’t usually get crafty and actually I do really enjoy it once I get stuck in but I’m bad at finding time to just sit and make something or get creative. So when I found out we were going to be making our own jewellery I was so excited! It’s also so nice to spend some time away from your phone and just enjoy the moment creating something cool.

I had such a fun experience with the CAST guys and the kit is so lovely with all the bits and bobs you need to make your own bespoke jewellery! Their Instagram and Pinterest are also full of great inspo if you find yourself a bit stuck on the design (which I absolutely was at first).

I decided to create a ring, which let me tell you took a while as I have rather large fingers, so carving out the size of my ring took me ages but it was so worth it for the accomplishment. For my design I decided to go with a textured metal effect by heating up one of the tools with a candle and then melting the wax to create a bumpy, textured effect. I hope once it’s cast to metal it should look pretty cool! I’ve gone with a silver finish as I think that looks best with the style ring I’ve designed.

I’m really excited to see the finished result and wear a piece of jewellery I designed myself! I would absolutely recommend this to anyone who is looking for something crafty to do, it would also be a fabulous gift!

This article was part of an AD – Gifted experience.

The summer months bring colour and freshness to your evening dinner plate, and the same can be said for your wardrobe too! As the weather warms up (please universe) and fake tan gets topped up with a real one, the urge to embrace bold, primary colours increases along with the fun and flirty vision that’s forced into hiding during the season of jumpers and boots. And what screams Italian vineyard or English orchard during a heatwave more than the humble fruit print?! Appearing in bold and statement prints or smaller micro nods to the trend, the variety of ways to rock fruit print mean the possibilities for summer outfits are truly endless. 

Which pieces are going straight into your basket?

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The end of lockdown is so close we can practically taste the Aperol but that doesn’t mean we’re immune to life’s many, many problems. Pause the bunting people, shit’s going down.

If only there was a vaccination to save us from mardy bum mother in-laws serving sly digs left right and centre, romance ruts and pals slating their dickhead boyfriends but continuing to do absolutely nothing about it. If scientists could make that jab happen by 2030, thank you please. Push it through guys, see what strings you can pull eh?

In this month’s BYAM, we’re working through all of the above and more. Join us for a good venting sesh, won’t you?

Danielle

Heya, thank you for writing in, I’m sorry to hear about what you’re going through with your friend. Let me first say that friendship break-ups are SO hard, much harder than relationship breakups because at least with a partner you know what’s happening, when it comes to friends, it’s often a case of someone getting left in the dark, lots of things left unsaid, no closure at all because there is no path trodden for this kind of thing. The heartbreak is stretched over a much longer time while it breaks down and it sounds like you’re currently left in an awkward place of asking; Why didn’t my friend want to be my friend just because I got a boyfriend? Does she want to be my friend now? Do I still want to be friends with someone who has treated me like this for 10 months?
You’re probably searching for a bit of closure or maybe a resurrection but before you contact make sure you want this person in your life. You mentioned that she knew you’d been in an abusive relationship in the past so it wasn’t very nice of her to treat you the way she did. Also, ask yourself if you were being a good friend to her, it sounds like you were spending whatever time you could with your new partner and maybe she felt neglected by you? Maybe she was worried you were moving too fast with your partner? If I’ve learnt anything this year it’s that a lot of people really went through highs and lows with their mental health so if you think this friendship is worth saving, get in touch with your friend and keep an open mind and an open heart.

Charlotte

Hey! I’m so sorry to hear you’ve been through such an emotionally challenging experience during lockdown, a time when none of us needed anything else thrown onto our plate, but I’m also sure your lovely new partner has been really supportive through this. I’m thrilled you’re in such a stable, happy relationship and you really do deserve to enjoy that and lap up the ‘honeymoon’ period as much as possible! Everyone deserves unconditional support and love from their significant other but particularly after what sounds like a rocky past relationship I hope you’re loving love more than ever.

In regards to your friend, UGH, I feel the frustration through the screen even reading your dilemma. I honestly don’t understand what could possibly be her problem here other than jealousy, and you would think even if this was the case she would have at least tried to conceal this somewhat- it’s not a good look for her AT ALL. There is absolutely no reason to resent your friend’s happiness, period, and unless she was for example going through a terrible break-up herself and finding the topic of love difficult, I do not understand why there would be a bone in her body resenting you finding peace and contentment.

I totally understand why it might seem appealing to reach out and understand what happened between the two of you, and if closure would help you to move on then perhaps go for it, but aside from that I think you are truly better off without her. No good friend ditches their pal so easily, especially over something that should be joyous for you both! Why isn’t she pleased for you?! Why doesn’t she want to hear about how happy you are to be settled?! Why is her go-to response to leave you?! To me, this is an entirely ‘her’ problem from some deep-rooted issues (perhaps jealously?) and I would hate for you to feel bad or a need to make the effort to patch things up when you have honestly done nothing wrong. I know you would never dream of treating her this way if it was the other way around, and so although I have some level of sympathy if she has gone through a difficult experience that your new relationship has triggered, that’s something she needs to work on herself rather than put the blame onto you. I don’t think reaching out would do any harm, but I think her actions and resistance to meet you halfway up until this point says a lot. Good friendships are worth so much in this world so if you miss her and think there’s something salvageable there then maybe drop her a text, but prepare yourself that her past behaviour might mean she’s not someone you can fully trust or rely on, and really that’s something that should be a given in any friendship.

Best of luck and from us at Team Zoella, please DO enjoy your honeymoon period!

Charlotte

Ugh- I think we all know someone like this and unfortunately a lot of the time there really is very little we can do. Firstly I do think some level of complaining about your partner can be normal haha, its often the people we love the most that can irritate us the most too and when you spend a lot of time with someone frustration is only natural sometimes. Having said that, when a relationship isn’t right it’s never going to be and to have to hear the same issues again and again (and again) is exhausting.

Perhaps next time she voices her opinions or frustrations say something along the lines of “oh no is he still doing that?” or “how are you doing? I know this was bothering you before”. Maybe a little comment like this will emphasise that yes she’s already raised these issues with you before and also remind her that these problems aren’t being resolved. I know you said she doesn’t take your relationship advice that seriously as a single person but perhaps you could draw on your previous experiences and subtly mention how much happier you are now to be single living life on your own terms than to be in your previous wrong relationships.

If dropping hints isn’t your thing then I think you just need to sit her down and have a lighthearted convo about this and say that her complaining is wearing a little thing, as much as you do really want to be supportive. Sometimes people genuinely don’t realise that they have bad habits or how difficult they’re being until it’s pointed out! Honesty is the best policy so if you feel you could go one step further, just be straight up with her and say you have some concerns about the relationship but come at it from the angle of being concerned about her and her happiness as it sounds like otherwise she may throw her toys out of the pram. You may be single but you’re not oblivious to what makes a healthy relationship and she needs to remember that! Hot girl summer is approaching and a gentle nudge in the right direction that she might be happier alone, with you right there to support her, might just do the trick. Good luck!

Darcey

Ahh this is always a very tricky situation! Mainly because you want to be supportive of your friend, but also the constant complaining can be mentally draining. I think we’ve all had similar issues with friends in the past, usually you just have to let them just figure it out for themselves as people don’t change unless they want to. Giving advice to someone who doesn’t take it is so frustrating too!

The problem here it seems and in the nicest possible way, I think your friend is kind of enjoying the drama her bad boyfriend brings along and this interest she has in his friend. It sounds super messy and not easy to be around. I think she absolutely isn’t wanting to change anything or break up with her boyfriend anytime soon, so any advice that means making changes she will shut down. She also sounds like she’s being a bit mean to you as well, saying you can’t give good advice because you aren’t in a relationship, well why is she asking you then?

Obviously, she is your friend, and you don’t want to fall out with her, but I think if you continue to not say anything you’ll end up having to cut the friendship as things will go sour. Sometimes you have to have difficult conversations with friends about their partners, I have in the past and the best way to approach it is just by telling the truth. Say you want to be a supportive friend, but you can’t continue going round this cycle as it’s mentally draining for you. Also mentioning that you of course will be there for her if she decides to leave her partner or make positive changes, but that until then you don’t want to discuss it. She has to know you are there for her, but also you aren’t her emotional punch bag, she either needs to discuss these issues with her partner or accept his flaws and move on. As it seems she speaks to all her friends a lot about it but isn’t addressing anything with him.

It’s so hard being in this kind of situation but honesty is the best way to move forward with this friendship, if she takes it badly and doesn’t respect your own boundaries then maybe take some time apart and let her figure her relationship out on her own. There’s only so much you can support someone, and your own mental health and wellbeing comes first.

Lareese

Hello lovely!

I’m so sorry to hear you’re going through it with your anxiety. Is this something new or have you always suffered with anxiety? Starting something new, whether it be a job or a placement, is always a challenge at the best of times, let alone in the middle of a pandemic. I really feel for you! It sounds like your mental health has taken a huge hit since you started working at the hospital and I guess it’s about getting to the heart of what’s triggering your anxiety (not always that easy to pin point, I know). It’s such a textbook answer but I would encourage you to talk to someone about what you’re dealing with so you can get the support you need. Is there someone at work you can talk to about how you’re feeling? If your anxiety stems from working at the hospital, no one will understand you better than your fellow nurses because they’ve been there! Talking to someone isn’t a failure, if anything it’ll make you a better nurse In the long run because you’ll be better equipped to do your job when you’re no longer trying to cope on your own.

Secondly, I would explore other options such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) or applied relaxation therapy, both of which will teach you key coping skills to better manage your anxiety. I can only imagine that you feel utterly overwhelmed right now and sometimes it can seem like this is your new normal but trust me, it doesn’t have to be that way.

Also, (another textbook answer coming up, sorry) you’re not alone – nine in ten nurses are feeling more anxious than usual due to the coronavirus so you’re certainly not an anomaly. The past year has been a lot for the most stoic of nurses to deal with, let alone a student nurse. This doesn’t mean you’re not cut out for the job, not at all, it just means that maybe starting something new, that involves going into a hospital in the middle of a pandemic and working directly with the risks that everyone else is able to avoid by staying at home, isn’t all that easy for a 19 year old nurse in training. You’re human and you’re very much entitled to say, hang on a minute, I’m struggling with this one.

I would encourage you to write down all your thoughts and feelings after work too to help unpack those emotions. Never underestimate the power of reflection.

I know your MH is in a tricky place right now but anxiety does not define you and it will not hold you back from having a successful nursing career.
I’ve every faith that once you’re armed with the tools you need to manage your anxiety, you’ll be able to move forward without the exhaustion, panic attacks and stress you’ve been experiencing.

Wishing you all the best with your future! Keep in touch and let us know how you get on. Lareese X

Danielle

Hello love! Thank you so much for writing in and I’m sorry you’re going through it at the moment becoming a nurse is such a brave a noble thing to do so its rubbish that your mental health is getting in your way. Firstly, it’s probably completely natural to feel anxious when starting a job as stressful as one in a hospital, the hours are long and might be a nightshift, it’s busy, and sometimes it’s quite literally life and death – something very few jobs have to deal with. However, what you’ve described sounds like a bit more than functional anxiety and panic attacks are a serious concern that you shouldn’t have to be going through at work. Firstly I’d talk to your GP about what you’ve been going through and start looking into different options of how to figure out why you’re feeling anxious and how you can work around it. Maybe it’s medication, maybe it’s therapy and CBT like Lareese has mentioned. Either way your mental health is something you are going to have to work on, have you had a look at any support groups with other nurses who might have been through something similar? I also think it’s important to get to the route of where your anxiety is stemming from, is it the job or is it something else. Will you get over ‘over it’ by simply working more and getting used to the job or is it something else entirely? Make sure you chat to your friends or family about how you’re feeling, I guarantee you’ll feel a little lighter and you really deserve that support from those that you love. Hang in there, you’re stronger thank you think! x

Holly

Hello lovely person,

What a horrible situation you have found. I hear so many stories about people with controlling mothers, and I find it so strange. Surely you want nothing more than for your children to be happy? I guess it must be kind of reassuring if your partner says she’s like this in general, not just to you. But that still doesn’t make it OK.

I think your friend is right, you need to take it upon yourself to figure out if there actually is a deeper issue. Ask her to go for a coffee or a glass of wine just you too and bring it up. I’d be super flattering and be like ‘your son makes me so happy, it’s probably me overthinking but I just want to double check we’re OK’. Even typing that sounds terrifying but you’ll feel so much better once you’ve done that.

I also think that if you and your partner are serious and been together for a while, he really should be sticking ups for you. Maybe you need to have some kind of signal or pull him to one side when she says something that makes you uncomfortable and ask him to say something. He almost needs to be in a position where he is putting you over his mum. But he might need a nudge, it is his mum after all and mothers/sons have such strong bonds.

Unfortunately, as much as it isn’t fair for you to be in the position, you kind of need to make a decision. If you aren’t going to speak to her, your partner isn’t going to do anything and your mother in law isn’t going to chill out, you need to decide if you can live like that forever.

I realise that’s probably not what you wanted to hear but I really hope it all works out. Sending you lots of love and a big cuddle.

Love Holly xx

Lareese

Oh pal! This is the scenario no one wants to deal with isn’t it?! If I were you I would absolutely say something, both to your partner – so he understands the severity of the issue and how his mum is making you feel – and directly to her, so she’s aware that although this may be how she behaves with other people, but you won’t tolerate it. You need some healthy boundaries here.

If your mental health has been compromised, your partner needs to take that very seriously and do something to support you which, in this case, is as easy as talking to his mum. He needs to have your back in this situation and put his foot down. It sounds like this has been going on for years and I can only imagine what an emotional weight that is to carry, particularly as the world starts opening back up and you’re likely to be spending more time socialising with his family again. That’s the kind of drama no one wants in their lives after a crappy year stuck at home. Something’s got to change if you’re feeling like this and it’s not enough for your boyfriend or his mum to bat it off as classic mum behaviour.

If you were to carry on as you were, it’ll soon begin to chip away at your relationship and why should you take that hit because of something she is doing and could prevent? Enough’s enough I say, you’ve done very well to stay composed for this long but I think a firm word is in order. Also, the sly digs are a bit baffling – is there something she needs to get off her chest? Something she’s dealing with that she just so happens to be taking out on you? Who knows! But there’s only one way to find out!

Really hoping you manage to resolve your differences and that you get the backup from the other half because you absolutely deserve that. Let us know how it goes!

Lareese Xx

Darcey

Hey anon! I could have quite LITERALLY written this myself. I am also 22 and never had a boyfriend or to be honest any successful romantic venture. I think the biggest issue is our age and that most men a similar age to us are after ‘something casual’ (although how many of them don’t disclose this early on then act like you are crazy for catching feelings?).

Being ghosted bloody sucks too! Also, it’s just so rude, it’s so easy to send a message saying the vibe wasn’t there but it was nice meeting you etc. If someone ghosts you to be honest, I think that just reflects how they would have been in a relationship, immature and uncaring, so it’s a no from me. I do think the pandemic has thrown a spanner in the works, I think most people are looking for a fun care-free Summer (hot girl summer here we go) and don’t want anything serious. Annoying for gals like us looking to find a boyfriend at some point!

But I think enjoying our freedom this Summer is exactly what we need to do, don’t get caught up in ‘why haven’t I found a boyfriend’, ‘why does no one like me’, etc. Firstly, it has nothing to do with you as a person, you’ve just not found someone you vibe with and that’s okay. We don’t want to settle with someone not worth our time just to feel companionship, helllll no. Enjoy being with friends, dating, having a proper Summer, these things find you when you least expect it (cliché I know but seriously I do believe in this). You are fabulous and you will find the right person at the right time, but until then enjoy yourself and remember how bloody great you are!

Holly

Let me start by saying, who on earth, as an adult, ghosts someone?! The least you can do is explain why something isn’t going to work out? Sounds like you had a lucky escape to me. Nobody who ghosts someone is even worth a second date.

Unfortunately, I think most boys around 21/22/23 are looking for more casual things; especially given the pandemic. We’ve lost more than 1 year of our lives where you just want to be fun and single and I think people are going to go a bit crazy for a little while. I think everyone should, just to let off some steam. So I definitely wouldn’t take it personally.

It’s so easy to compare your love life and life in general to people around you, but you just have to try your hardest not to. Everyone is different and just because you’ve never had a relationship doesn’t mean you won’t. Trust me, 22 is very young still, you have plenty of time for relationships and you will have to kiss a few frogs on the way.

I say this to all my friends, if you’re looking for a relationship, you’ll end up settling. Just enjoy where you are, have fun with your friends and family, go on dates but just don’t put so much pressure on them always working out. Live for the moment. You’re exactly where you need to be and you’ll meet the perfect person when the time is right. If you go into dates thinking you’re going to be together forever, you’ll end up settling and you deserve so much more than that.

Sending you lots of love and positive vibes,
Holly xx

Does anyone else agree that coffee table styling feels like peak adulthood? Us too. Balancing the needs of functionality and aesthetics has never been more key than in a living space that’s considered the hub of the home- the place guests visit as well as housing your daily bits, bobs and everything in between. Clutter but make it cool. Everyday essentials but make it edgy. It’s all the ‘stuff’ that’s worthy of public viewing. Nailing the balance of purposeful decor, whilst also leaving space for your actual coffee cups and snacks aplenty is a fine art, friends!

If you’re in need of inspo then think vases, coasters, candles, plants and our personal favourite: BOOKS. There’s something about buying a chunky, hardback coffee table book (aka an oversized visual book that possibly collects dust but looks fabulous doing so) too that feels 10/10 joyful. A book with no expectations or set reading time can be a welcome break from a heavy reading list or excessive screen time day. The key here is not to overthink. Much like shelf styling it can feel overwhelming to nail the fine line between intentional interiors and excessive ‘stuff’, but the more you play around with the space and switch things up seasonally, the more effortless it feels.

Charlotte

OOO I’ve never had a coffee table so this feels like a fun styling challenge. Obvs needs to have some of my personality involved so a Harry Styles candle is just a given. No questions asked. We have a Paul Mescal one on our kitchen table currently and the vibes are immaculate. This Amalfi book is also pure vibes and a lovely one to flick through on a rainy morning with a cuppa. Having fresh flowers in the house has been a lovely luxury in lockdown and this lilac vase is right up my street- perfect for some pastel Spring blooms!

*Amara, ASSOULINE Amalfi Coast Book, £70 

*Bohemia, LILAC ENAMEL BUD VASE, £10 

*La Gent, Octaevo Janus Cocktail Coaster Set of 12, £17 

*Firebox, CELEBRITY PRAYER CANDLES, £17.99 

Lareese

I love tinkering around with functional spaces to make them look a little more considered and the coffee table is no exception. A mix of books, independent mags, candles and vases for fresh flowers always have a way of welcoming you into the room and creating a focal point to draw the eye away from the tv. I often add in a few secondhand purchases to make it look a bit more eclectic too.

*Amara, ASSOULINE St Tropez Soleil Book, £70 

*Amazon, Louis Vuitton: The Complete Fashion Collections, £44.98 

Zara, VASE WITH HANDLES, £69.99 

Closet & Botts, ZINC FLOWER CANDLE HOLDER, £4.95 

*H&M, 2-pack tapered candles, £1.99 

Danielle

I’ve gone for some pink and green vibes for my coffee table set up because it would go fabulously in my living room. Starting things off with a lamp, fun to look at and lighting really changes the mood of a room, this might be better suited to a side table or windowsill but tbf. I love a fancy candle but I don’t tend to light them too much which is why I’ve also chosen a burner, they’re more cost-effective and I finally jumped on the wax melts bandwagon and I’ll be dammed if I’m getting off now. Love a cheeky coaster and something to read, most people I know wouldn’t be able to resist flicking through this because dogs are life.

*Selfridges, DIPTYQUE Graphic Collection Limited Edition Roses mini scented candle, £32 

*Oliver Bonas, Ero Green Velvet Desk & Table Lamp, £55 

*Oliver Bonas, Paradise Pink Ceramic Oil Burner, £19.50 

*Trouva, Jonathan Adler, Set of 4 Cock and Tail Coasters, £88 

Magazine Brighton, Dog – Issue 7, £13 

Darcey

I’m really liking navy blue and pink at the moment so I’ve gone for this colour theme for my coffee table. Terrazzo coasters (terrazzo anything tbh) is super cute and these navy blue ones from Etsy are perfect! Always like to use candles to decorate and this curvy torso one is lovely, but I never like to burn them so instead I burn incense. Oliver Bonas have a little turtle incense holder which is so cute so that had to be on my list. Dried flowers are great for a coffee table too as minimal effort and money in the long run, but look really beautiful.

Kalon Candle Co, Curvy Midsize Goddess Candle, £15 

*Etsy, ContrastShade, Terrazzo Coaster Jesmonite Hexagon Coasters Drink Coasters, Custom Coasters,Ceramic Coasters Set 2PC, £11.99 

*Oliver Bonas, Kauka Pink Glass Vase, £29.50 

*Etsy, prettydriedblooms, Letterbox dried flowers PDB1, £13.99 

*Oliver Bonas, Honu Blue Turtle Ceramic Incense Holder, £7.50 

Holly

My coffee table is always a bit cluttered, it’ll have some nail polish and likely a ketchup bottle on it from the night before. But when I’m adulting well, it will have a nice array of pretty things on it. I brought a similar mirror tray for all my bits and bobs to go on because it looks cute. Then I’ll have an interesting book, candle burning and given the current climate, some hand cream and sanitiser!

Waterstones, Accidentally Wes Anderson, £25 

*John Lewis, Heathcote & Ivory In The Garden Hand Cream & Moisturising Hand Sanitiser Set, £5.50 

Melody Maison, Large Gold Mirrored Cocktail Tray, £42.95 

Wax and Wicks, WILD WOODS + FIR, £25 

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AD This is a paid partnership with Fellows Auctioneers.

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Founded in Birmingham in 1876, Fellows is one of the UK’s most established auction houses with a focus on luxury watches, designer brands and unique jewellery. They hold regular specialist designer handbag and accessories auctions, with a luxury handbag auction each quarter, at a variety of price points.

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