Jasmine & White Frangipani Body, Room and Linen Spritz

I have a growing obsession with The Body Shop right now, it has been years since I have ventured into a store but just recently they have really caught my attention with the Banana range but whilst browsing instore, I came across the home fragrance section and had to hold myself back from not purchasing the entire range of candles and room sprays!  I love room sprays and my dream is to have the Jo Malone Pomegranate Noir Spray in my house, but in the meantime, this one will do.

The one scent I was definitely not leaving without, as well as most of the Banana range, was this Jasmine & White Frangipani Body, Room and Linen Spritz which is just beautiful.

Described as being a multipurpose spritz it can be used around the house, on the body or even on fresh linen to give it that little extra scent.   I absolutely love the scent of Jasmine and a lot of my favourite scents contain Jasmine as one of the notes.   What I love about this scent is how beautifully floral it is.  It uses Ylang Ylang and Cassis to provide the initial scent of the fragrance, so with this, you get a fruity scent from the Cassis which is almost blackcurrant but then the Ylang Ylang which brings in some floral tones.  However, for me, it is both Tuberose and Frangipani which are the dominant notes and work so well alongside the inclusion of Community Trade Organic Honey.

I use this spray in the lounge and in the bedroom daily and if I spritz it in the morning, by the time i get home from work, the scent still lingers which means it lasts for around 9 hours, much longer than other room sprays that I have tried.  I have also used it on freshly laundered towels as I hang them out to dry and the scent settles so well on them.  The only way I haven't used this spray is as a body spray.

For a 100ml bottle, this Jasmine & White Frangipani Body, Room and Linen Spritz retails for £7 and there are other scents available such as Pomegranate and Raspberry, Aloe and Soft Linen, Mandarin and Tangelo plus Green Tea and Lemon.

*this post contains PR samples and/or Affiliate Links unless indicated otherwise - you can learn more on my Disclaimer page here

Infini Roses - The Real Roses which last a year

I absolutely love having fresh flowers at home, they brighten up the smallest of places and create the most amazing natural fragrances but the downside is, at best they only last for 7-10 days maximum. Some of my favourite flowers I choose for the scent - Sunflowers, Peonies and Roses for example, everything I grow in the garden alongside various tomato plants, another scent I just adore. The downside to flowers as well as how long they last is the cost, it can become quite an expensive to keep buying flowers, so what if I said there was a box of roses that you could purchase that could last an entire year? 

Infini Roses are a UK based retailer which specialise in real roses that last a whole year. All of their roses are picked at the point of perfection and naturally preserved to last for at least one year. 

At INFINI, we value quality and design above all else. Our team works passionately to provide unique and trending floral products without compromise. We also know that time is precious, so we made shopping simple. With an extensive range of styles and colours, you are bound to find what you need all in one place.

I was given the chance to try some of these roses for myself and with over 20 different shades of rose to choose from, the hardest part was that decision. In the end, I opted for the Classic Cube Box in black and it contains 9 real roses. Each rose undergoes an intricate and eco-friendly process to preserve the quality and beauty of the petals while living much longer than your average high street rose. I opted for the Aqua Marine shade of rose and it is just so stunning, as soon as I opened the package I was wowed by how vibrant the blue is against the black box.

With prices starting at £79 for a box collection, prices rise depending upon what it is you are looking for and likewise the boxes and roses are available in different sizes, shapes, finishes and with it comes the ability to ship worldwide.

I have had my roses for just under 2 weeks and given the heat we have just had, they have kept their shape, they haven't drooped or faded either, they look just fantastic. If like me you are not too green fingered and like easy flowers, then these Infini Roses are perfect because you don't need to trim the bottom, you don't need to water them, your only challenge is to keep them out of direct sunlight and high humidity.

These roses are just absolutely stunning and make such an incredible gift and if you love roses as much as I do, they also save you a whole lot of money over the year!

*this post contains PR samples and/or Affiliate Links unless indicated otherwise - you can learn more on my Disclaimer page here

Discovering Tuscany

The weather right here in the UK currently is just stunning. It is the weather we all moan we want, but when it arrives we dream of living in the freezers of Asda to cool down. Secretly joyous that I am not abroad in Spain or Portugal like my work colleagues who cheerily went off for their Summer holiday assuming Blightly would just thrash us with rain and storms.

That said, those of us who haven't yet departed for the sunnier climates have been discussing where in the world we would like to visit.  The most surprising place being Italy that we all agreed we would love to revisit. One colleague hails from Italy and his parents run a hotel in Porto Ercole.  For me, I am drawn to Tuscany and there is so much choice when it comes to Tuscan holiday rentals that it caused a debate in the office as to which would be the most relaxing.

Photo Credit - LuxuryRetreates.com

With its capital of Florence, a place from which my Grandmother was named, Tuscany is perhaps best known for its landscapes, traditions, history and of course its artistic legacy. What attracts me to this part of the world, other than for the fine wine and pasta is the culture and there are so many things I want to see and do.

I have a weird fascination with churches and graveyards and can spend hours just wandering around looking at the architecture and one building that really does capture my attention is the dome that covers the Florence cathedral (the church of Santa Maria del Fiore) is known as Filippo Brunelleschi’s dome. Described as being one of the most iconic sites across Florence due to the red-tiled cupola which can be seen dominating the skyline.

Photo Credit - Florence Inferno

Inside the Dome, it is just as stunning and painted back in 1572 by Giorgio Vasari and it is said the best place to truly take everything in, is to climb to 463 steps right up to the interior of the dome.

If you are a fan of James Bond, then Siena is the place to visit because there are some scenes from The Quantum of Solace you might recognise.  For me, the draw is the Medieval connection which sees the layout of the Piazza look almost like an outdoor theatre. Equally, if it is medieval brick buildings as well romanesque-gothic cathedrals that you are looking for then Siena has it all.  

Image Credit - OperaDuomo

Inside the Duomo in Siena is a Library, the Piccolomini Library and if that isn't kooky enough for you, the Cathedral which holds work by Donatello, Bernini and Michelangelo, has an exterior and interior which are decorated in white and greenish-black marble in alternating stripes, black and white being the symbolic colours of Siena.

Then there is Pisa, the one place in Italy I have been too and it was long before my days of blogging and social media. Pisa is, of course, best known for its iconic Leaning Tower and it was only when I visited that I learnt that the tower was already tilting when it was completed in 1372. Standing in front of the tower is quite something and as well as being a place to take some funny photographs, which you only have Google, you can also climb the steps inside, which I did. 

Image Credit - Discover Tuscany

It is at the midway point whilst climbing the 284ish steps that you appreciate just how much it leans. The steps are quite narrow and if heights and small spaces are not your thing, then this most definitely will not be either. But, once you get to the top of the tower the view is quite something as you can see right across Pisa and into the surrounding hills.  Whilst I was in Pisa, I also spent some time in both the Cathedral and the Baptistery but whilst wandering we also came across a cemetery known locally as Camposanto Monumentale and it was quite by accident that we stumbled across it. Referred to as the Holy Land it is said that the cemetery had been built upon the soil brought from Golgotha, which, if you know anything about religion and the Bible, is the site reputed to be located right outside the walls of Jerusalem, where the Christ was crucified. However, more fascinating than that and perhaps something I will never forget is a local tour guide who told us that the legend has it that at this burial ground it is claimed that anybody buried in it will dissolve in only 24 hours. Now I don't know whether or not this is true, but it is a piece of information that I have never forgotten in over ten years!

As much as love the history, the culture and the cathedrals to look round, for me, a holiday is all about the sea. I've made no secret of the fact that I am at my calmest when I am beside the sea, perhaps there is some truth in being ruled by your star sign (Cancerian by the way) especially as I am a water sign.  Tuscany is said to have over 19 beaches and with it come some of the most beautiful seasides I've seen in a long time and places such as Viareggio which also boasts one of the biggest carnivals in Italy, Livorno which doubles up as a Port or Portoferraio but for me it would have to be Orbetello which is located in the middle of the lagoon and it is currently where one of my friends is spending the next 15 days and her Instagram updates are incredible. Said to be geographically unique, Orbetello is famous for its long beaches and beautiful bay, so whether you want white sand or beach dunes, there is a beach to suit absolutely everyone. 

So whether you have been on holiday, are going on holiday or can't decide whether to holiday or not, I would love to know if Tuscany has ever featured in your places to visit or want to visit list.

*this post contains PR samples, paid for link and/or Affiliate Links unless indicated otherwise - you can learn more on my Disclaimer page here

Beauty Kits and Boxes with Feelunique

How did I not know that Feelunique had so many gift sets to offer? Browsing through the website for a few gifts for some upcoming birthdays and I think my wishlist has grown quite a lot!  Looking within the gift set section, there is a lot of choices and a lot of savings to be had and here are just some of the ones to catch my eye.

Caudalie 'Mixology' Beauty Box  £45

I am a huge fan of Caudalie and have been lucky enough to try a lot of their products over the years and this box offers some of my favourites. Described as being a Mix, Match and Glow box, it is packed full of cult favourites which contains:

• Caudalie Vinoperfect Radiance Serum 10ml - This oil-free serum contains highly concentrated Viniferine (grape sap), to boost radiance, even the complexion and correct dark spots.
• Caudalie Glycolic Peel 75ml - Designed to restore radiance, this peel is full of natural ingredients like glycolic acid and papaya extract.
• Caudalie Vinoperfect Brightening Essence 50ml - Inspired by Korean beauty regimes, this lightweight, refined formula is infused with glycolic acid, to buff away dead skin cells, white peony, for a healthy glow and even complexion, and organic grape water, to soothe and moisturise the skin. 
• Caudalie VineActiv Overnight Detox Oil 30ml - Rich in Omega 6 and Vitamin E, this night time oil works to allow tired, stressed skin to regenerate itself at night. 
• Caudalie Instant Foaming Cleanser 50ml - Light, airy and soap-free, this cleanser is infused with moisturising grape extract, purifying sage and soothing camomile extract to restore radiance and leave the skin feel smooth.

With a box that would retail for £84, this is quite a bargain to be had and each product is an impressive size.

Urban Decay x Feelunique Beauty On The Go Kit £40.50

Any fans of Urban Decay out there will love this little kit. Described as being the 'On The Go' Kit contains Introducing many best-selling makeup essentials by Urban Decay and is designed to take you full circle from work or study to going out out! Inside you will find

• Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Anti-Ageing Travel Size 5ml - Said you last for 24 hours, this crease-free eyeshadow primer works to lock your shadow in place, wake up tired eyes and minimise the appearance of redness and other imperfections
• Urban Decay All Nighter Setting Spray Travel Size 30ml - For me, this spray speaks for itself and I've lost count of how many times I have repurchased it. 
• Urban Decay Perversion Travel Size Mascara 4ml - Said to be a mascara which will build, separate and define each lash whilst never being brittle or clumpy, Perversion is a not too wet and not too dry mascara which you can build up whilst avoiding the dreaded spider leg lashes.
• Urban Decay Naked Basics Palette - This is one palette that I still don't have in my collection but it is everything that I need for travelling. Made up of five matte and one demi-matte shade, it is literally perfect. 
• Urban Decay Moondust Eyeshadow 1.5g in Diamond Dog - A Deep Brown with White-Gold Sparkle, this is one of the few single shadows I own and simply adore.

Putting all of this together inside a beautiful Feelunique Holographic Cosmetics Bag. I think this is an incredible collection and one I would very much like in my stash.

BY TERRY Favourites

This beauty box contains the 5 award-winning BY TERRY bestsellers which Feelunique say you need to create the perfect everyday glamorous and flawless look. 

Box Contains:

• BY TERRY Lip Powder Essence 0.9g in N2. Nude Flirt - Described as being a breakthrough lipstick which triggers a true "lip revolution", the weightless, loose powder texture immediately transforms into a highly-pigmented liquid ink matte lipstick.
• BY TERRY Mascara Terrybly Growth Booster Mascara 8ml in Black Parti-Pris - Described as being a tinted lash serum enriched with Lumicoat® Care Technology activates lash growth, delivering greater volume, length and thickness
• BY TERRY Compact-Expert Dual Powder 5g in No. 7 Sun Desire - Described as being a matifiant, illuminator, perfecteur all-over that sublimates all the eyelets and fixes the make-up in a single gesture. The soft touch texture is enriched with lightweight "self-adapting" pigments.
• BY TERRY Mini Hyaluronic Hydra Powder 1.3g - Said to set your make up and blur visibility of imperfections to create a ‘soft focus’ effect. Ultra-lightweight and completely invisible, this controls shine without leaving skin looking dry or chalky
• BY TERRY Ombre Blackstar Melting Eyeshadow 1.64g in Bronze Moon - This is a luxurious cream eyeshadow that is packed with Tahitian Black Pearl extracts, rich in calcium, trace elements and pearl proteins for smoothing, reshaping and perfecting action.

This box is currently on offer for £54 but has a value more than double at £130 so it is an absolute bargain not to be missed.  Whether or not you are a fan of the brand, want to discover some favourites or want to get to know By Terry, then this is some box.

Universal Makeup Beauty Box Powered by Feelunique £19.60

If you didn't know, Feelunique has an arsenal of beauty boxes which they curate themselves. Available throughout the year and at Christmas time, they are worth keeping an eye out for because they do make an amazing gift. The Universal Makeup Beauty Box Powered by Feelunique contains:

• Nude by Nature Translucent Loose Finishing Powder 10g - Said to help extend the life of your makeup as well as help keep shine at bay.
• The Pro Hygiene Collection Antibacterial Makeup Spray 15ml - This little spritz is designed to clean your makeup tools! Think tweezers, eyebrow brush, beauty blender and even clippers!
• Bourjois Rouge Edition Souffle De Velvet Lipstick 8ml - Coquelic'oh. This innovative lipstick is described as being packed with essential oils and once applied not only does it dry to a very ‘in-vogue’ matte finish but it also retains its vibrant colour.
• Elizabeth Arden Lasting Impression Mascara Black 2.5ml - Using Avocado and olive oils strengthen lashes, this mascara is described as being the stuff of legends!
• Laura Geller Beauty Spackle Treatment Hydrating Make-Up Primer 59ml - This Vitamin rich, skin hydrating primer is said to create the perfect base for makeup application
• PHB Ethical Beauty - Black Eyeliner Pencil 4g - Made purely of plant oils and waxes this is a vegan, cruelty-free and halal certified eyeliner

For under £20, I think this is a bargain not to be missed, it has something for everyone and if you see something in the box you quite like, you can always swap it out and add something else in its place!

The final box which really caught my attention is the Feelunique Fragrance Gift Box for Her with £60 Voucher - £60.00

I adore my perfumes and fragrances, but I am really quite picky about what I like to wear. So this gift box which contains 6 fragrance samples, along with a £60 gift voucher is quite different to others I have tried. 

Inside the box are the following fragrances:

• Lancôme La Vie Est Belle Eau De Parfum Sample 1.5ml 
• Lancôme Tresor La Nuit Eau de Parfum Sample 1.5ml
• Emporio Armani Because It's You Eau de Parfum Sample 1.2ml
• VIKTOR&ROLF Flowerbomb Eau De Parfum Sample 1.2ml
• Yves Saint Laurent Black Opium Eau De Parfum Sample 1.5ml 
• Armani Sí Eau De Parfum Sample 1.2ml

What I like about this is the chance to use these fragrances over a certain amount of time and then you can decide which one you like the most and use the accompanying £60 voucher which can be redeemed for a full-sized fragrance.

Without question, I am still one of those people who loves beauty boxes and I still find them as much fun now as I did when I first started blogging, only now there is a lot more choice than there used to be and here is Feelunique showing just that.

*this post contains PR samples and/or Affiliate Links unless indicated otherwise - you can learn more on my Disclaimer page here