A mum-of-one has written a heartfelt Facebook post about what it's really like to be a mother, saying she sometimes feel like it is a 'sick joke'. Storm-Manea Ellyatt, from Sydney, wrote the post after crying in a coffee shop, and said that she thought social media didn't show the reality of parenthood. Ms Ellyatt said she sometimes felt like she didn't love her son enough because she had bad days, and wanted to speak out for people who felt the same. ...read
It's one of the most fashionable days of the whole racing calendar and today got off to a vibrant start in Berkshire.
It's one of the most fashionable days of the whole racing calendar and today got off to a vibrant start in Berkshire.
IN FEMAIL TODAY...
- How the colour of your underwear can change your mood
- The top 10 words to use on your dating profile
- It's Amore! How to whip up the ultimate romantic Italian inspired dinner SPONSORED
- Holly Willoughby admits it was a 'wrench' going back to work after having her children
- Your last-minute Father's Day gift guide
- Kendall Jenner first shaved her legs age SEVEN
THIS WEEK WE'RE LOVING...
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Jo Malone's latest offering, Nashi Blossom, is sure to be your scent of the summer. Bursts of white blossoms, succulent nashi fruit and sweet pear are combined with crisp apple, lemon and soft white musk to create a fresh and sweet scent. Added appeal comes courtesy of the fragrance's bottle, which is fun, playful and inspired by the nashi flower.
No7 Lash Impact (£13.50) is getting a makeover and will be launched in a Champagne Sparkly Gold Packaging on the 8th June and will be available for eight weeks only. This popular No7 mascara helps you achieve volume quickly and easily with the help of its fibre brush, specially designed to apply the mascara smoothly. Proven to add dramatic volume after just one coat and a false lash effect without any clumping or flaking after two, you have total control over creating your own lash impact. This is without having to spend time layering on loads more product, also helping you avoid the feeling of heavy lashes.
This month sees the launch of Good Ship Benefit, a beauty and lifestyle destination run by Benefit Cosmetics and set to make waves as it opens its doors, inviting Benebabes onboard for a host of exciting events on the River Thames. Whether you're after a standup comedy girls night out, afternoon tea with a twist or simply looking for the best spot in the capital to watch the London Marathon, the Good Ship Benefit at the R.S Hispaniola, located at Victoria Embankment, has a jam-packed calendar of activities to satisfy every taste. Check out the website to see what's on and get booking.
All Saints are back and better than ever! Don't miss your chance to see the band's first outdoor show since announcing their comeback in the stunning surroundings of Chiswick House and Gardens. All Saints are joined by the fantastic Karen Harding, KStewart and a host of other performers to complete the all-female line-up. Summer Sessions brings to you an incredible 4-day series of outdoor music and performances from 15-19 June. From Opera (Puccini's classic Tosca) to All Saints and Co and Ronnie Scott's Jazz (featuring Georgie Fame, Claire Martin and Guy Barker) to family fun with Peppa Pig, Paw Patrol, music and activities; Summer Sessions has something for everyone to enjoy.
Seeking smooth skin ahead of summer? The Epionce Lytic TX Lotion, £50.50, epionce.co.uk, will be your best friend. Suitable for both men and women, the skin lotion improves skin texture by exfoliating gently around hardened skin areas, making this perfect for male skin which is slightly thicker than women¿s, and ideal for treating milia in both. Key ingredients salicylic and azelaic acids provide the exfoliation. Apply directly onto milia spots to thin the skin over time to help aid removal the gentle way.
With the weather heating up, invites to garden parties and BBQs are pouring in by the bucketload. Want to make yours stand out from the rest? Invest in the Sony GTK-XB7, which has high power audio and EXTRA BASS button delivering a deep, punchy sound for bass lovers. Even tech phobes will love it thanks to its instant and easy connectivity with your digital music library, giving access to all your tracks. It can be connected to your smartphone or tablet for charging and song playback, meaning you just need your mobile device to get a party started. Plus, it's easy to set up and can be transported - making it the perfect accessory for any party. £280.
Looking for a way to enjoy Father¿s day with the whole family? Why not take your little ones to join Peppa Pig, Paw Patrol, and their other favourite superheroes & princesses for live performances and more at Chiswick House on 19th June? For the older children, there will be a variety of sporting activities such as football competitions, tag rugby, arts and crafts and music performances for all to enjoy. Purchase a family ticket including entry for two adults and two children for just £49 and children under the age of two go free.
New POLO Sugar Free Extra Strong have been accredited by the Oral Health Foundation as being `kind to teeth'. So pop a pack in your bag to help maintain healthy teeth and have minty fresh breath!
Wilkinson Sword knows that it¿s the little things that can make a big difference, so add a spot of deliciousness to your shaving experience with the new Wilkinson Sword Quattro for Women Raspberry Rain, with girly pink raspberry-scented handles. Designed to turn your shaving experience into a raspberry scented haven, this must have scented fuzz-fighter boasts four high performance blades designed to effortlessly glide over the curves of the female body. Perfect for active women on the go, this girly beauty must-have will not only be easy to spot (and smell!) in a wash bag but is perfect for impromptu weekends away or for the gym bag. Available nationwide at leading retailers including Boots, Asda and Superdrug at a RRP of £5.69 for a pack of three razors.
MUST READ
You're so vain! 'FaceTime with filters' app enhances your appearance in real time during video calls... so would YOU try it, or do we all need to get real?
You know the drill. You've just removed your make-up and settled in for a Game of Thrones marathon and someone suggests a video phone call. Isn't it easier to text or email, you think, as you contemplate a conversation under the harsh glare of the FaceTime camera? An inventive app hopes to change this dire situation. ChatGame aims to enhance your appearance during a live video call by offering facial beautification features. FEMAIL put the app to the test, and while we were impressed with the heavy-handed airbrushing, we had to ask - is yet another filtered social media platform taking it once step too far?
WHERE TO EAT THIS WEEK
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When you imagine yourself eating one of the best lobsters of your life it is likely that you see yourself, abroad, perhaps overlooking the sea, am I right? Well, how about around the back of Oxford Street without a waterfront in sight? Dickie Fitz is the capital¿s answer to Australian cuisine and their menu is set to give even the Aussies a run for their money. I ordered the lobster with wild garlic and chilli with some trepidation. Nothing breaks my heart more than a disappointing lobster which the capital has cruelly subjected me to in the past. However, I can honestly say that their offering tops many of the crustaceans I have eaten in the world, let alone London. Fuss-free, buttery and fresher tasting than many I have enjoyed with an ocean view ¿ seafood lovers the hunt is over. P.S. For those of you not quite ready to part with £34 for a whole lobster I plead you to have the fries with chicken salt. Warning: extra portions may be required.
MARTHA CLIFF
Next door to, in my opinion, some of the best Italian available in the capital there would have to be something significantly special at The Ninth on Charlotte Street to tempt me away from my usual haunts. London based chef Jun Tanaka offers a mash up of French and Mediterranean cuisine- which I admit at first, I was a little flummoxed by. However, a great thing happened as I was handed the menu ¿ I didn¿t know what to order. It wasn¿t that the menu was overcrowded but rather everything was causing me salivate. After much dithering I settled for rabbit confit lasagne which cannot be faulted, followed by roast quail, perfect in size and taste. The waiters will suggest that these are sharing dishes, which I have to say I struggled with (halving a roast quail is not the most elegant dinner etiquette). I would recommend choosing your own main which is all the better to enjoy the spoil-you-rotten food. My favourite Italian may have to step up its game.
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Multi-award winning snack makers, PROPERCORN, have joined forces with culinary architects, Bompas & Parr, to bring their pursuit of flavour perfection to life, revealing the pop behind their packs. Journeying through the spice shelves, bitters and sweets of the flavour library, all who enter will experience the crescendo of the anechoic popping room, before tumbling their precious popcorn in the kitchen. Each person will sniff, spray and sprinkle their way to their own signature seasoning, before it is pinned to the wall of pop. This flavour experience from the masters of maize, continues in the popcorn museum, housing some of the oldest grains on the planet and concludes with a perfectly shaken popcorn cocktail at the colour bar. The Institute of Flavour pops up on 17th June, open to the public for 2 days. To get hold of tickets or create a flavour visit: www.instituteofflavour.com
Innovative sushi isn't always easy to find in London and if you're bored of a bog standard California roll, head to Murakami in Covent Garden, which has just had a re-launch. The setting is pared back but feels luxe enough for date night or dinner with clients and the service is second-to-none. As for the food, expect mouthwatering sushi rolls with a difference. We loved the Aburi Sushi (flame seared) and Oshi sushi (flame seared pressed); they were super fresh and light but exploded with flavour. The Rib Eye with shiitake and yuzu sweet soya sauce literally melts in the mouth and the puddings are delicious; be sure to sample to mochi.
Unless you've been living under a rock, you'll know that The Nice Guy in Los Angeles is THE place to see and be seen. The latest offering from the h.wood Group is the city's answer to London's Chiltern Firehouse and with Justin Bieber, Taylor Swift and the Kardashians gracing the haunt night after night, it's easy to see why. But it's not just the plush Mafia-inspired decor, relaxed vibe and celebrity clientele that draws in the crowds, the food is something to write home about, too. The kitchen serves up good, hearty LA grub; think succulent burgers, juicy meatballs, the tastiest truffle fries and sweet apple crumble, which Gigi Hadid loves so much they named it after her. The delicious food is washed down by creative cocktails and the finest whiskies and the waiters really know their stuff. If you want to dine at LA's trendiest eatery, get on the waiting list ASAP and then be sure to get a snap in the in-house photobooth to prove you were there.
London is saturated with restaurants offering top quality fish, but Beirut-born brand Salmontini just went and trumped them all. Nestled in swanky Belgravia, Jason Bassili's new haunt has made its way over from the Middle East - and we are welcoming it with open arms. Offering unparalleled luxury in the coziest of settings, the Pont street eatery is the perfect date night setting. Possibly the most sumptuous sushi currently on offer in the capital, the team are putting their own spin on the classics. Menu highlights include 35 days aged Rib-eye steak served with Dauphinoise potatoes and wild mushrooms, Crispy California Maki with crunchy tempura crumbs and a Salmon Kaware drizzled with black truffle oil.
If you¿re heading to Le Menar I would suggest taking your appetite and more importantly a plus one or maybe even a two or three. Glancing at the extensive menu you¿ll be hard pressed to place your order at the cosy North African restaurant in the heart of Fitzrovia. Eager to try as much as possible I order about seven courses and to my horror they are all absolutely delicious. The Spiced Lamb Rack (lamb cutlets) might be the best I have ever had and the side of Smoked Aubergiene Moutabal is honestly heavenly. Other favourites included the scallops that were so fresh I could well have been sampling them from the fishing boat, from which they were caught. The chef Vernon, was a delight and is happy to provide recommendations for the evening if you are unsure. And best of all he wasn¿t the least bit judgmental that my guest and I managed to devour all seven courses¿
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The Savoy's riverside restaurant Kaspar's appoints new executive chef Holger Jackish. His new direction centres on British seasonal food and locally source seafood; beautifully prepared and elegantly presented. The perfect spot for relaxed lunches, and early evening drinks and bites, Kaspar's all-day offering also features succulent meats from the grill alongside lighter bites and cured fish platters at the seafood bar.
Celebrate the arrival of Spring in style at luxe Japanese haunt, Sake No Hana. The restaurant from the Hakkasan family houses a beautiful and Instagram-friendly sakura cherry blossom garden from 21st March to 18th June. Inspired by hanami, the centuries-old Japanese tradition of celebrating the fleeting cherry blossom, Sakura at Sake no Hana offers guests the chance to enjoy the transient beauty of the flowers in the heart of Mayfair. As well as an aesthetically pleasing interior, a limited edition seven course menu has been created for guests to enjoy, featuring a cocktail, a bento box created by Executive Head Chef Hideki Hiwatashi, a dessert and macarons. Sakura at Sake no Hana¿s limited edition menu is available for lunch and dinner in the bar and restaurant sushi counter from 21st March to 18th June, Monday to Saturday, for £34 per person. To book a table call 020 7925 8988 or email reservations@sakenohana.com.
Tibits is a vegetarian and vegan restaurant offering up a guilt free, comprehensive menu that changes daily, with dishes inspired from the Mediterranean through to Asia, all produced with largely organic and all GM-free ingredients. Check out any of their seven branches in London and Switzerland - or you can recreate eighty of their most coveted and mouth-watering recipes at home with their new book co-written with Rolf Hiltl, Vegan Love Story.
The Botanist in Trinity Leeds offers a wondrous concoction of botanical cocktails, craft beers and ales, Champagne and wine. A sublime social spot like not other, you also get live music and gourmet food inspired by European delis, rotisserie and BBQ.
Spring is in the air and it¿s bringing the freshest new flavours to the belt as YO! Sushi unveils a major shakeup of its authentic Japanese menu. From Japanese Seabass Ceviche to Yuzu Cured Salmon, the new dishes celebrate the joy of Japanese cuisine at its best. YO! Sushi also becomes one of the few UK restaurants to offer a most delicious delicacy - Albacore Tuna - which will excite fans in the forms of either Tuna Tataki or Nigiri with Truffle Ponzu. To really put a spring in your step, the latest superfood ¿ seaweed ¿ is in abundance on the belt and Miso Dumpling Ramen and Beef Curry Ramen join the ranks of the super popular ramen dishes on offer.
- Welcome to Tattscot! Glamorous revellers showcase their inkings on Ladies' Day - even though their body art means they're banned from the royal enclosure
- Brain-splitting equation that even a MATHS TEACHER can't solve has the entire Internet baffled... So do YOU know the answer?
- Could having sex once a week put the spark back in your marriage? Experts say that’s the perfect amount. So how did three couples cope when we made them try it?
- Secrets of the £2.99 anti-ageing cream that keeps 70-year-old Joanna Lumley looking so Ab Fab
- 'Locked in her cupboard, crying in her stained PJs from three days ago, covered in sweat and vomit': Mum writes brutally honest post about how motherhood can feel like 'a sick joke'
- Should YOU dump your pump? Mother-of-two claims hand expressing 'changed her life', helped her breastfeed for longer and is healthier for the baby
- WAGs under pressure! Coleen Rooney and Rebekah Vardy look cool in designer shades as they watch England battle it out with Wales
- Brain-splitting equation that even a MATHS TEACHER can't solve has the entire Internet baffled... So do YOU know the answer?
- The EIGHT types of nipple revealed - so which do you have?
- The wildest accessory yet: How the super-rich are flaunting their exotic 'pets' online including cheetahs riding in super cars and a lion cub in a Louis Vuitton cat carrier
- The Best Dressed Lady of them all! The Queen arrives at Royal Ascot looking elegant in orange and blue while Eugenie and Beatrice are a perfect match in navy outfits
- Luck be a ROYAL lady! Kate, Sophie Wessex and Princess Mary of Denmark can't contain their excitement as their horses win at Ascot
- Welcome to Tattscot! Glamorous revellers showcase their inkings on Ladies' Day - even though their body art means they're banned from the royal enclosure
- So they're NOT the same person! Kate catches up with lookalike Princess Mary of Denmark at Royal Ascot
- MOST READ IN DETAIL
FEMAIL BLOGS
CELEBRITY STYLE WATCH...CLEMENCE POSEY
CELEBRITY STYLE WATCH...CLEMENCE POSEYFrench actress Clemence Posey looked Parisian chic in Breton outside the Burberry catwalk at London Fashion Week. She added some British flair with a classic Burberry trench. Here we show you how to emulate her style for a fraction of the price...
Clemence Posey added some fabulous French glamour to London Fashion Week
SHAPE UP: The latest fitness news and products
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- ACE ANKLES
- RUN THE ROYAL PARKS HALF FOR CHARITY
- Buy SUNFLOWER PROTEIN
- Buy THE OCs
- MASTER THE MARATHON
- Buy TASTY PROTEIN
- Buy RUN YOURSELF FIT
- Buy STAY WARM
- Buy IGNITE YOUR WORKOUT
- Buy HIT THE TRAILS
- Buy COOL HIKES
- SUGAR DETOX
- Buy PROJECT FIT
- Buy HALO HEADBANDS
- KEEP TRACK
- Buy TRACK PROGRESS
- BUDGET BAREFOOT
- Buy ACTIVE HOLIDAYS
- Buy ELLE SPORT
- GET READY TO ZUMBA
- RUN IN STYLE
- Buy FITNESS BARGAINS
- Buy BOOMBOOM BRA
- Buy ICE RELIEF
- EAT YOUR GREENS
- ACE ANKLES
- RUN THE ROYAL PARKS HALF FOR CHARITY
A new sugar-free, organic, gluten-free, vegan complete-protein powder packs in a massive 36g protein in one scoop. Nature's Plus Sunflower Protein is a sunflower-based protein powder which is fine and easily dissolved - makers say it won't form those familiar lumps. Moreso, it provides all of the essential amino acids. Its most noteworthy feature is its super-high concentration of branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs: Valine, Leucine and Isoleucine), which promote muscle growth and strength. Sunflower Protein Powder from Natures Plus, £22.50.
The world famous Old Cranleighans rugby club will make history on May 7th when they take on Buxton RFC in the prestigious final of the RFU Junior Vase at Twickenham. The stellar team, who this season finished at the top of the Surrey 1 league, haven't been defeated since December. The club, who count Stanley the pug as a team mascot, beat Widden Old Boys in the semi-final to clinch their place in the cup final. 'We are delighted to make the final; the majority of the squad haven't played at Twickenham before and it is certainly set to be a fantastic experience,' said social secretary Matt Dawes. 'The boys are all extremely grateful to our supporters, who have consistently made away games feel like home. We hope to see even more turn out at Twickenham and of course, back at the clubhouse for a quiet beer.' Tickets for the RFU Cups Finals Day at Twickenham are on sale now via the RFU's ticketing portal.
This French Vanilla SPIRU-TEIN PureTrition Organic Shake is gluten free, vegetarian and vegan and all-organic. You couldn't want much more from a protein powder except great taste - and this one definitely ticks the box. Just 120 cals per serving and an awesome 11 grams of protein.
If you want to start running to get fit in 2016 and don't know where to start, then buy a copy of Run Yourself Fit, out now published by Summersdale. The book is written by former editor of Women's Running magazine Christina Macdonald, who practises what she preaches having completed a number of races from 5k to marathon distance. The beginner-friendly tome has training plans, tips and advice on how to avoid injury. RRP £6.99
The Winter 2015 Hats Collection from BUFF is perfect for fitness enthusiasts, and those in need of extra warmth during the winter months. The range of stylish performance hats includes five design categories to help you brave the elements in style and optimum performance.
Ignite is a new ebook from fitness expert Julia Buckley, the author of the bestselling, The Fat Burn Revolution. The series of six 30-minute workouts claim to deliver astonishing fat loss and fitness gains after just four weeks. Best of all, you don't need to join a gym as you can do all the workouts in the comfort of your own home.
Autumn is here but the incoming wet weather doesn't mean you have to give up running on your favourite off-road routes. Pull on a pair of adidas new trail shoes - which includes their Boost technology - and you'll have a comfortable ride with super grip. The adidas adizero XT Trail BOOST has a fitted sock for extra ankle stability on uneven surfaces and has a protective toe area and outsole made of Continental¿ rubber. The fit can come up small so we recommend going a size, or half a size, up than your usual one. adidas adizero XT Trail BOOST RRP £105 available from adidas.com
The women's Brodiaea Jacket is a waterproof, mid-length Mac. It's got all the technical stuff you need to see you through the colder months, a Hydrafort outer, taped seams and a super soft Sherpa fleece lining. Now £44, from Regatta
A new high intensity, interval training class in London will change the way you work out. Maximise your exercise and head underground in the City, just by Bank, to the red-lit bunker where you can burn up to 1,000 calories in an hour. Project Fit combines intense treadmill HIIT with free weights and resistance for a unique group workout experience. Created by personal trainer Joel Hilton and Ben Staines.
Halo Headbands could be heaven sent as they promise to help you beat the sweat when working out this summer. The headbands have patented 'Sweat Block Technology' that redirects sweat to the sides of the head away from eyes so you can concentrate on running, racing, riding, training and competing. The headband can be worn alone or fits under hats and helmets. RRP £14.95 for the Halo II Headband(pictured)available in different colours.
Monitor your vital statistics and help improve your health with Tanita and their range of body composition monitors. Tanita's BIA technology measures BMI, body fat percentage, muscle mass, visceral fat levels, hydration levels, weight, and BMR (amount of calories your body burns at rest). Tanita BC-731 from £49.99
Famed for their outdoor holidays in the UK's best walking areas, HF Holidays are now opening their doors to other sporty types. They believe their 19 country houses - located in National Parks and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty such as the Lake District - make the perfect base from which runners, cyclists and other adventurers can train. Head of Operations Matthew Humphreys explains: 'HF Holidays is well known for providing reliable guided walking to thousands of walkers each year. Yet our Country Houses are situated in the most prefect scenic settings just made for all kinds of outdoor adventures. It's not just the location, our properties come equipped with drying rooms and boot rooms to dry your wet gear after a day in the outdoors, washing facilities for clothes, and some have Bike Sheds if you decide to bring your own bike. Our guests can enjoy full board accommodation.' Visit www.hfholidays.co.uk for the latest offers.
Elle Sport have launched a new range of active clothing that's both stylish and practical. The Supernova collection features on-trend graphic prints and pastel shades to satisfy the fashion conscious exerciser. The lightweight, breathable material means it's not just for posing in the gym but can withstand a hard workout. For a summer run, we love the double layered running shorts, £32, and the control performance vest, £36, both pictured.
This stylish sportsbra is supportive enough for the treadmill and comfortable enough for day-to-day wear. It will quickly become your go-to bra for a run or under your favorite tank.
Boom Bra in Pink, £55 from BoomBoom Athletica
THERAPEARL, is a new doctor developed cool pack that provides an easy, no mess way to ice a sports injury to reduce pain. Store the pack in your freezer and apply when necessary to inflamed areas. Available from Boots for £5.99.
IN GOOD HEALTH TODAY
- I SPENT £25,000 ON DIAMONDS THEN FLUSHED THEM DOWN THE LOO: Bipolar disorder sufferer Lynn Hodges, 54, spent £90,000 in four years during her manic spending sprees
- 'I SURVIVED SEPSIS... ONLY FOR IT TO KILL MY SON': Melissa Mead, 29, from Cornwall, lost her son William, one, after medics failed to diagnose the condition
- CAN MIND POWER BEAT CHRONIC PAIN?: Experts say going vegetarian and listening to classical music can also help.
- WHY ARE WARDS SO NOISY?: Average is now 10 decibels louder than in the 1960s
- ASK THE DOCTOR: Should I take turmeric pills for my arthritis?
DON'T MISS
The Best Dressed Lady of them all! The Queen arrives at Royal Ascot looking elegant in orange and blue while Eugenie and Beatrice are a perfect match in navy outfits
The Queen, 90, joined racegoers for Ladies Day at Royal Ascot, looking elegant in a blue coat and orange hat. Her granddaughter Princess Eugenie, 26, (left) also joined the royal party, looking chic in a navy dress with a statement pink and white pointed collar, while Princess Beatrice mirrored her grandmother in a navy and orange hat.
BEAUTY FAVOURITES
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With Mother's Day just around the corner, the hunt is on for the perfect - and most unique - gift to give your mom. But while flowers and candy might be nice, we suggest you look no further than this fabulous fragrance by Odin. Inspired by the romance of exotic destinations and long-forgotten places, Odin New York¿s Black Line No. 12 scent ($165), which draws on the rich landscapes of India, features a spicy mix of black pepper, rare Lacha saffron, warm nutmeg and carnation flower, which is intended to evoke images rich in color and beauty. The unisex scent also contains middle notes of suede accord, which is mixed with bottom notes of patchouli, sandalwood and musk to create a long-lasting earthy base. The deep scent is sure to make this Mother's Day one she will never forget.
Research shows turmeric does much more than just make our food taste amazing. In India, turmeric is also known as 'the Golden Goddess' and modern studies show that this spice has beneficial compounds that can enhance the health and appearance of our skin: from protecting us from premature anti-aging, to skin-clearing, to supporting skin healing and cell renewal. Now in pill form.
Pukka Organic Turmeric capsules, £15.95 for 30 capsules www.pukkaherbs.com
In world-first, Antheia is an express fake tan remover that removes orange, streaky tans with a simple spray and wipe formula.
Unsure of what to buy your mom this Mother's Day - but want something that you know she will never forget? Why not forget the more traditional treats and opt for something that will help her to enjoy the day even more? That's where the New York-based Julien Farel Restore Salon and Spa at the Loews Regency Hotel on Park Avenue comes in. With several pampering packages designed especially for mother's of all ages - from moms-to-be to moms with teenage children - there is something on offer to suit even the most hard-to-please of parents, be it a massage, manicure, make-up or even all three. And, best of all, there are plenty of opportunities for the kids to get in on the pampering session too - making Mother's Day all the more enjoyable for everyone involved, not just mom!
WUNDER2'S new foundation is a breakthrough: water-proof and transfer-proof. CoverProof features a revolutionary Tri-Plex 24hour-plus, long-wear formula that works on three interconnecting levels to deliver a flawless finish that's comfortable and nourishing for the skin. £24.95
New to Unite's iconic 7SECONDS range is this shampoo ($33) and conditioner ($35) duo. Offering powerful, all-day moisture and enviable shine, the products also promise to ensure long-lasting protection against heat and environmental aggressors.
Moschino's latest Fresh fragrance might just be its most fun-filled. Encased in a quirky bottle which looks just like your average cleaning product, the scent itself is anything but ordinary. A beautiful blend of mandarin, bergamot, ylang ylang, raspberry, peony, osmanthus, woods, patchouli and ambrox makes for an enticing scent that will linger for hours after application.
Aesop's Rind Concentrate Body Balm is no fable. The after-shower balm smells delightful and will bring dry skin back to life in no time. £69 500ml.
MARTHA CLIFF
Those who are unfamiliar with Kiehl's Superbly Restorative Dry Oil get ready to make it part of your winter beauty routine. Use it as a treatment for dry hair or sooth winter chafing. £37.50, Selfridges
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Benefit¿s Air Patrol is one of those miracle products that actually works. The eyeshadow primer has kept the FEMAIL desk¿s eyeshadow smudge free even during the most stressful of work days! £21.50 Benefit
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With damp weather bringing with it the dreaded winter frizz many of us will be turning to our straighteners this winter. To avoid damaged hair perk it up once a week with the Rosemary & Cedarwood hair treatment from Neal's Yard. £6.50
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Dr Bronner¿s pure castile soap is rightly dubbed magic soap. It has a myriad of uses from shampoo and face cleansing to floor cleaner and even tooth paste. We love the lavender scent, add a few drops to your bath for a relaxing soak. £8.50 ASOS
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Look to Scandinavia for your latest hair product obsession. We love the L:A Bruket Balsam Citrongräs conditioner with detangling properties leaving you with soft silky hair. £26.90
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Pixi's makeup melting wipes are FEMAIL's most coveted product of late. Removing makeup up with ease and with a goregeous scent it makes the job a real joy. £10 Pixi
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As winter finally draws to an end, the days become longer and the nights become brighter, what better way to celebrate the arrival of spring than with a new fresh and floral fragrance? Thankfully high-end knitwear brand Wildfox has you covered with its debut scent, a beautiful blend of sweet and whimsical fragrance that includes notes of jasmine essence, dewy honeysuckle, white camellia, absinthe mist and apricot blush. Created in collaboration with Elizabeth Arden, it is inspired by 'the Wildfox girl who dances to her own beat'.
Does H&M; make ANY 'Size 14' clothes that actually fit a real-life Size 14 woman? Our test suggests not!
H&M; on Wednesday came under fire after a size 14 woman posted on Facebook her struggle to fit into a pair of the brand's size 16 jeans. So was it a one-off, or are the brand's sizes not true to size? FEMAIL carried out its own investigation to find out. Jemma Lamble, 24, went shopping to H&M; in London trying on 18 different garments - from jeans and shorts, to tops and jackets - all in a size 14 to see how they compared. The 24-year-old from London tried on two pairs of jeans, both size 14, one pair fitted (centre, £14.99) while the others wouldn't even do up (left, £14.99). She also tried on a green skirt which was far too small (second from left, £14.99) and a denim pair of shorts which were painfully tight (second from right, £7.99). She said a pair of pink trousers that didn't do up and were too tight on the thighs (right) were 'hideous'.
FOOD, RECIPES & COOKING
SUPER SALMON recipes by Signe Johanson for the Norwegian Seafood Council, www.seafoodfromnorway.co.uk
Click on image for recipe
FOOD BITES: This week's wish list
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- ICE CREAM DREAM
- Buy 3 NUT BUTTER
- Buy MATCHA GREEN TEA
- Buy MACA ENERGY
- BUDGET WINES
- Buy CABANA KICK SAUCE
- Buy GIN TWISTS
- Buy MUSHROOM MAGIC
- SPRING CORDIAL
- Buy BLUEBERRY DAY
- Buy BIG BUNNY
- Buy FINE WINE
- Buy JUICE TIME
- Buy CAKE CUPPA
- PERFECT MATCH
- Buy COOL WHITE
- SPICE UP YOUR DRINK
- FLAVOURED CROISSANT
- Buy PECULIAR POPS
- VALUE FINE WINE
- Buy CHOC SAUSAGE
- SUPER SHLOER
- Buy COCONUT BREEZE
- Buy COMPTOIR COOKING
- ICE CREAM DREAM
- Buy 3 NUT BUTTER
Whole Earth extends its range of organic nut butters with this wonder. The new 3 Nut Butter spread features a smooth blend of pecans and peanuts with crunchy walnut pieces. They already do Cashew, Peanut and Hazelnut 3 Nut Butter spread. Yum.
Panut, Pecan & Walnut 3 Nut Butter spread, £3.29, Whole Earth.
Pukka's Mint Matcha Green tea is a yummy blend of organic Sencha and Matcha with spearmint and fieldmint. It gives a refreshing lift while easing your digestion after food. Great if you're feeling sluggish or weighed down. Both matcha and green tea boost your metabolism, too. Mint especially hels ease bloating and gas.
Pukka Mint Matcha Green Tea, £2.79 for 20 tea bags, pukkaherbs.com
Maca offers a whole range of exciting health benefits. As an adaptogen it aids the body in adapting to stressful surroundings and situations. It works to support the adrenal glands and the thyroid, directly lowering levels of stress. This, coupled with the fact that it is a natural, caffeine-free energizer makes it the perfect go-to supplement for modern day living.
Organic Maca Root Powder, £5.99, Nutriseed.UK
If you like the spicy things in life, you'll love the latest offering from Cabana. The legendary Spicy Malagueta Sauce can be slathered on chicken or steak for an extra kick. Dip your fries in it or get creative and toss it on a salad - it'll add pizazz to even the simplest dishes.
It's Gin O'Clock somewhere. That somewhere is in London at Sway, where Gin Twists are taking over this April. Ginspiration at its finest, you can sip on the simply refreshing Raspberry and Basil Twist, which includes Bombay Sapphire, a handful of raspberries, basil leaves and premium Schweppes Lavender tonic.
From drinking mushroom tea, eating dried mushrooms or taking a supplement, mushrooms - with their endless health and wellbeing benefits - are the hottest new foodie trend. Hifas da Terra's specialised supplement MicoSalud range has been developed to boost the immune system, target IBS, immunity and cholesterol. The Mico-Rei supplement pictured is said to help with anti-ageing the skin at a cellular level. Hifas da Terra Mico-Rei, £55.50, exclusive to Harrods.
BerryWorld announces the launch of National Blueberry Day on August 13, established to promote blueberries. To celebrate, try these blueberry, oat and pecan pancakes. Light, fluffy and oozing with the goodness of blueberries, these pancakes make a perfect breakfast treat. They are quick to make and the oats and pecans help sustain you through a busy morning. Follow the link for the full recipe.
The Lindt Gold Bunny is an Easter must-have but could you consume a 1kg version? Guaranteed to make a big impression, the giant milk chocolate Lindt Gold Bunny costs £39.99 and is so large it needs its own carrier case!
D&D; Wine is an online shop with a difference. Run by a team of sommeliers from restaurant group D&D;, some of whom have won the industry's highest awards for their lists. This all-round red will impress at any dinner party. Byron; Pinot Noir, Santa Barbara County, 2012 - £16.25
Dedicated to natural cleansing by way of delicious, organic and healing juices, 42 Juice is created by a hot young female duo in Brighton. The cold-pressed juices are said to minimise toxins and maximise nutrients so that the digestive process is eased and energy is able to be sent to other areas of the body, helping to heal, protect and boost cells from the inside out. Book a Cleanse (or opt for a Juice Box if you want to boost the immune system but don't want to commit to anything too hardcore) and these saintly yet tasty juices will be delivered straight to your door. Or if you find yourself in Brighton, visit 42 Juice's super-chic bar there.
If you're having a dry January then you might find it hard to resist the Corder Cool Climate Sauvignon Blanc from Cape London. But fear not, you can keep your New Year resolution to avoid the booze by letting it mature for at least four years. If you can't wait that long, enjoy it now for the subtle, clean and fresh flavour that complements chicken and salads. £11.99 from www.capelondon.co.uk
This Autumn sees the launch of PAUL's Limited Edition croissant range. Enjoy the authentic and buttery homemade French treat filled with fresh and flavoursome fillings and topped with a choice of flaked almonds, hazelnuts, pistachio and raspberries. Highlights include the Croissant Framboise, bursting with raspberries and frangipane cream. Other options include Praline, Pistachio and Almond, priced at £1.95 each.
Beetroot might not sound an obvious choice of baking ingredient but in the capable hands of Soho bakery Foxcroft & Ginger, the humble vegetable has been transformed into a key part of their new chocolate cake pops. Made using Fairtrade chocolate, the sweet treats are deliciously moist and ridiculously moreish. You¿ll never look at beetroot in the same way again! £2.50, Foxcroft & Ginger
Château Lagrange is going into Lidl stores on November 27 as part of a new 36 wine collection. It's the most expensive wine the budget retailer has ever sold, and it comes from an estate well known to claret lovers. The elegant, flavoursome wine provides satisfying drinking earlier than other Grands Crus Classés and will stay at a delicious level for several years to come. Who knew Lidl did so upmarket? £39.99
Carpo Chocolate Tubes are heaven shaped like a sausage. The dark ones contain 55 per cent cocoa and are dairy free and suitable for vegans and chocoholics. This Dark Chocolate Tube with Almond Croquant is our favourite. Carpo London is the first store abroad of Greek family company Carpo Hellas, specialists in premium nuts, dried fruits, chocolate, honey and coffee - basically all the indulgences in life. Visit the store on 16 Piccadilly street, buy online at http://www.carpolondon.co.uk/contact/ or call Carpo on 0207 287 7233.
Rum is our guilty pleasure but we're not always mad keen on the pirate stereotype that comes with it. Enter Koko Kanu. The crystal clear rum has a subtle coconut taste and a wonderfully smooth and velvety texture and best of all it has really pretty packaging so you can avoid any Long John Silver jokes! RRP £19.99
Tony Kitous has had the whole of London flocking to Comptoir for his Lebanese cuisine for over a decade and it can often be a struggle to get a table. But now fans of his food can enjoy it from the comfort of their own home as Comptoir has released its second cookbook, Comptoir Libanais Express. Tony brings you 80 new simple but delicious ¿express¿ recipes, perfect for pulling together fast after work, or for a quick but impressive feast for guests. £20, Random House