For the majority of single folk, any mention of the words ‘Valentine’s’ and ‘Day’ in the same sentence can bring about an eye-rolling sense of dread. I’ve certainly been guilty of this in the past, but my mindset seems to have changed somewhat in 2019. Being a massive lover of self-care (I mean, who isn’t?) I think there’s no better time than V Day to show yourself some serious love and appreciation.
Whether you have a bit of cash to splash, or if you’d rather stick within a budget, there are loads of bits and bobs on the market that are just perfect for little self care pick-me-ups. Here are my personal faves.
Vanilla Links Pendant from Nude Jewellery
This stunning pendant necklace was gifted to me by the lovely Nikki at Nude Jewellery, a boutique based in Surrey and London whose designs have appeared in the likes of Vogue and Elle. I’m a huge fan of these types of pendants; they’re a popular modern design with a classic sophisticated and elegant vibe, and go well with a wide variety of looks, day or evening. Why not update your accessory collection with one of these exquisitely designed pieces?
Vanilla Links Pendant, £110 from Nude Jewellery
Cleanse & Polish Hot Cloth Cleanser from Liz Earle
Having used this product for a few months, I couldn’t agree more with its reputation as the UK’s No.1 cleanser. The cloth motions lift away dead skin cells, leaving skin the softest it’s ever felt. It’s a great way to incorporate a bit of luxury into your daily skincare routine, and at only £16.50 on the website right now, it’s a bargain.
Cleanse & Polish Hot Cloth Cleanser, £16.50 from Liz Earle
Sheepy Robe from Next
Is there anything comfier in this world than a fluffy dressing gown? I think not. I mean, if you can think of anything, send the info my way… but I guarantee you will not. My personal faves are always the ones from Next. I get a new one every year, and one that I can’t quite let go of that I got a couple of years back is shown below. It’s still just as comfy as snug as it was the day I got it. After all, what better way is there to love yourself than by taking a hot shower, making yourself a cup of strong tea and sticking your dressing gown on?
Sheepy Robe in Grey, £28 from Next
Woodwick Candle in Warm Wool
One thing I have noticed about progressing into your twenties is the increased appreciation for a good quality candle. Potentially the most cringey sentence I have ever written, but it’s so bloody true! Woodwicks are a bit more expensive than your average Wilko candle, but they are so worth it. They last a long time, smell absolutely divine, and the brand’s trademark crackle sound is so soothing. Call me ’24 going on 40′, but I’ll take a night in with a Woodwick any day of the week.
Woodwick Candle in Warm Wool, £18.99 from Woodwick
Kindle Paperwhite from Amazon
I’ve had my Kindle for about five years now, and it’s one of the best things I’ve ever bought. As someone who moves at least once a year, there’s nothing worse than having to lug around a load of books that take up a whole suitcase. A regular Kindle costs £60 on the Amazon website, and a Paperwhite is priced at just under £120. Considering that books cost much less as a Kindle version as opposed to paperback or hardback, I’d say it’s so worth it in the long-run – I’ve read about 50 books on my Kindle.
Kindle Paperwhite, £119.99 from Amazon
Wicked Uplift Bra from Victoria’s Secret
Not sure about you, but walking out of Victoria’s Secret with a new bra or five makes me quite excited. That was particularly the case last week, when I realised I’d been wearing the same bra for god knows how long so figured it was probably a wise idea to invest in some more. I can’t find the specific ones I bought on the website (probably because they were in the sale, so they might be sold out now), but here’s one that’s quite similar. The lacy ones that give you a bit of a lift are my fave.
Wicked Uplift Bra, £45 from Victoria’s Secret