10 Steps To The Ultimate Pamper Night

As soon as the weather starts to get a bit colder and it's dark by 5pm it makes it incredibly acceptable to have a pamper night every night, am I right? I like the idea of hibernating throughout the winter period, and keeping warm and cosy when I get home from work. I find a proper good pamper night makes me feel so much better, and it helps me to get a good nights sleep too. There's no elusive rules to how you have to pamper, but a few of the right products and a little bit of structure will help make that day end on a good note. 

Don't go thinking pamper nights are just for weekends, NO, NO NO. They'll come in handiest when you've had the Monday from hell, the day that everything seems to go wrong and when you just need a little cheering up. Don't understimate the pamper night, it really is magic, and these are the 10 commandments you need to be following to achieve the ultimate of pamper nights!

1. Lose the phone 

Okay, so I really need to start following my own commandements, but seriously put your phone away for the evening - you don't need me to tell you how much of a time waster a phone is, before you know it you've stumbled onto someone's instagram page and you then find yourself on your sisters, boyfriends, aunties, dogs page by the end of the night, and guess what? Nothing has been achieved and you've been on your phone for 3 hours. 

If you don't think you can do this, at least put your phone away half an hour before bed so your brain can try to switch off.

2. Candles/ Soft Lighting

If you're on the Hygge hype as much as me, you'll know how much candles play a central part in Hygge. If you're surrounded by candles/soft lighting you're half way to achieving that 'hygge' comforting feeling. Lit or not lit, they look great, so they're a must.

3. Comfy Clothes

Regardless to whether it's a pamper night or not, the first thing I do when I get home is take off my work clothes and put on something a lot more comfortable. HELLO elasticated waistbands and t-shirts that don't fit. It also means that you're in the perfect situ to start eating your way into a food coma...

4. Be Clean

Before you go reaching for your pamper night snacks, lets not be forgetting the basic levels of hygiene. I am not shy about telling people about my mild OCD with hand washing and general fear of germs and catching colds, working in an office 5 days a week has me fearing for my health every week so hand washing duties need to be on top form. 

I ALWAYS use anti bacterial gel hand washes as I still cant get my head around traditional bars of soap, how and why can that be hygienic? I cringe every time I see a singular bar of soap in a public toilet, I don't think so. Carex soap is always my go to whether it's pamper night or not, but I feel the new Fun Edition Love Hearts Carex Hand Wash* was made for the ultimate pamper night. There's nothing antiseptic or hospital smelling about this soap, my inner child is oh so excited about the retro vibe of this soap and it smells sooooo good, and it's all about spreading the love, not the germs with this fun edition of the soap. It's like you can taste the sweets fizzing in your mouth when you have a deep inhale of the hand wash. I think I could even bathe in this stuff it's so good. Not forgetting to mention that it's also pink? I'll have 10 bottles please.

5. Face Mask

I'm still meaning to get into a proper cleansing routine, especially after I witnessed what my skin looked like after I had an Elemis skin analysis, but that's a different story all together... Anyway, a face mask will help those skin issues feel like a temporary problem when you slather one on your face. I usually pop mine on before I have a soak in the bath so it can get to work. 

I'm currently loving the Pure Clay purity mask which is part of Loreal Paris's range of 3 masks which all work to target different problem areas of skin. I'm also loving the Nuxe Paris Masque Creme Fraiche de Beaute, perfect for pre nights out as your makeup goes on flawlessly afterwards!

6. Have A Soak

No great pamper night is started without a Lush bath. I'm sorry, but it just can't and won't happen - I won't allow it! I usually keep a little basket full of sweet smelling bath bombs and bubble bars waiting to be plucked for a nice little bath. I feel so much better after a Lush soak lasting at least an hour, take a peep at my Halloween Lush Haul if you're not sure what to pick up for your next bath!

It definitely helps having a little supply of bath bombs to hand though for when you're in need of a little relaxation! 

7. Moisturise

Seal that lovely post bath skin in with a luxury body moisturiser to keep your skin soft and supple, I can never be bothered to moisturise during the winter as it's so cold when you get out of the shower/bath - but skin gets sooo dry during the winter so it's a must, and your skin will feel so much better for it. 

I usually have a 'special' moisturiser for pamper nights to make it extra special, I save my Twilight scented Lush moisturiser for that which is just a dream to be slathered in. Scented with lavender, I'm practically ready for bed once it's soaked into my skin, it makes me feel so relaxed and I'm then ready to slip my jim jams on!

8. Pyjamas

Is it weird that I just LOVE new pyjamas, I have a whole drawer full and I just can't get enough. Considering we do spend almost half of our lives in them I think it's an acceptable item to invest in - we need to be cosy after all.

I am literally obsessed with these cactus pjs from Asos, when I first got them I thought they were a bit 'thin' for winter, but they are made from modal which is an eco-friendly manmade fabric which is actually incredibly warm. I mean the whole style and pattern obviously does it for me, who doesn't want a pair of cactus covered pjs really? 

9. Books

It's really sad that the only time I really get to read a book now is when I'm on a holiday, I feel like I never have time to do so during the week, but it's one of those things that you NEED to make time for. Reading is so relaxing, whether it's a mag, chick flick or a self help book, and boy am I loving those at the moment. 

I've already worked my way through The Little Book of Hygge, but I'm now working my way back through strategically, trying to make my life as Hygge as poss! James also picked me up this blogging book for my Birthday, boy did good! I'll definitely be avidly reading this one if it means I can think my way into being a full time blogger by next week...

10. Pillow Spray

Once your phone is firmly out of sight, you've read a few pages of your book and you're reading for sleep, help make the process that bit easier by putting a spritz of pillow spray onto your pillows.

I swear by the This Works sleep plus lavender scented pillow spray, it smells soooo good. I don't actually know if I can link it to a better nights sleep, but it does help me relax and unwind than with nothing, so it's definitely worth a little spritz on pamper night!

There's not always time for a pamper night, but it's so important to 'make' time and look after yourself. I've never once not had a pamper night and felt at least 70% better afterwards for doing it. But lets face it, I don't really need any excuse for a pamper night and neither should you!

Is Friday your pamper night? What is your ultimate pamper night? Have you tried the new love hearts carex scented soap?

*Products marked with an asterix (*) have been sent to me for review. However, all opinions in this post are 100% my own

Follow me on Bloglovin , Twitter , Instagram

OOTD | Cosy Winter Getup

Jumper - Primark

Joni Jeans - Topshop

Flats - Topshop

Coat* - Closet London 

As much as I love dressing up and styling outfits, everyone needs that one cosy getup that they can fall back on when the weather is cold, and you just can't be bothered to make an effort. I need a few of these fail safe outfits during winter as I hate being cold, it's really about comfort and being warm during the winter for me. I sometimes forget that I lived in Finland for a year, and during that time I didn't buy ONE new item of clothing, like how was that even possible? It was amazing for my bank account though. No one really cared about what they wore in Finland, as when it is -30 degrees it's about keeping yourself warm in practical clothing, and as the saying goes, there's 'no such thing as bad weather, it's only bad clothing'. Which I definitely agree with to some extent which is why I invested in the snuggliest roll top pink jumper from Primark, it's like I'm having a series of warm cuddles everytime I wear it. It's slightly too warm for now with a coat, but I know it's going to be a staple as we head into the colder weather. It's surprisingly warm and well made for Primark, and it's honestly the softest, most snug thing I own! 

Once you have the knitwear sorted, it's time to pair it with your favourite staple pair of jeans that make you look and feel amazing. This is why I love Joni jeans from Topshop, they're stretchier than traditional jeans and ultra slimming. Top your outfit off with your favourite shoes or boots for a casual, cosy getup that will keep you warm and stylish, even if you don't feel it!

What do you think of this outfit? Do you have a couple of fail safe outfits for the winter? Do you like knitwear?

*Products marked with an asterix (*) have been sent to me for review. However, all opinions in this post are 100% my own

Follow me on Bloglovin , Twitter , Instagram

10 Of The Best Places For Breakfast In Plymouth

After the success of my 10 of the best independent coffee shops in Plymouth post I thought it was about time I did the same for breakfast places in Plymouth! After all, who doesn't love a good leisurely brunch on a Sunday?! Going out for breakfast wasn't actually something I ever used to do until earlier this year. I guess I got bored of evening meals in the same restaurants, and with so many places that serve breakfast in Plymouth, it's definitely something I look forward to on the weekend! A sunday well spent brings a week of content right? Especially when it involves fluffy pancakes and copious amounts of tea! You'll probably be like 'surely this is just the best places for pancakes in Plymouth?' I like pancakes, OK? But I think it still gives you an idea of how nice their other breakfasts are too, and if you like pancakes you're onto a winner with this post! If you're a local, new to the area or popping down for a holiday, this really is the definitive list of the best places to tuck into breakfast in Plymouth! In no particular order...

#1. The Bakery - Royal William Yard

I write this with a solemn heart, as unfortunately The Bakery shut down about 2 weeks ago, which is so sad as I loved the concept of The Bakery, the location and the delicious breakfast pastries. Even though it has closed, I'm still including it as I'm holding my hopes out that they may reopen again? The Bakery served up a fine selection of pastries and a selection of hot dishes, you just help yourself, get your drinks, and pay at the end - it's really that simple! Think croissants the size of a dinner plate and pain au chocolats oozing with chocolate, and the atmospehere of this place is the best bit, set in the heart of the industrialised buildings of Royal William Yard, I'm certainly sad to see this place go. There's proof that I really do love this place so much as I devoted a whole post to The Bakery a couple of years ago! 

#2. Boston Tea Party

You've probably come across a BTP Cafe somewhere on your travels, and I know it's not an independent restaurant, but they have that quirky edge, industrial interior and a breakfast menu to die for. There is plenty of seats both inside and outside, so you don't need to worry about it being full up on a Sunday morning. I've had porridge and pancakes in BTP Plymouth, and they were both delicious. They definitely cater to those who want to have a nice breakfast out that is still healthy. There's lot of different toppings that you can choose for your porridge too, so it definitely makes it more exciting than your every day porridge routine at home. 

#3. The Dock

Situated in the ferry port, The Dock has a delicious brunch menu and breathtaking views. I would recommend visiting on a sunny day as you can also sit outside and take in the stunning sea views. Their menu caters for everything, from healthy granola dishes and pancakes, to full English breakfasts. The granola comes with yoghurt and fruit that is more filling than you would think. I was a little pig and got a croissant to go with it too! They also have a Danish basket which only costs £5 and is filled with lots of yummy, buttery pastries - you can't really go wrong with that! 

#4. Rumpus Cosy

I've lost count of the amount of times that I have proclaimed my love for Rumpus Cosy. It goes without saying that it is my go to place for tea, cake and a little bit of peace and quiet. Situated in the city centre, you can't miss Rumpus Cosy and it's the perfect place to grab some brunch on a Saturday morning. They only started serving breakfast earlier this year and their compact offering really works. I of course stick to the pancakes in Rumpus Cosy as they're insta friendly (OBV) and they taste amazing. It's nice to be able to get traditional pancakes for once as most places just serve American style pancakes which don't get me wrong I also love! The prices are pretty reasonable for a delicious brunch and I couldn't think of a better place to start the day!

#5. Seco Lounge

Royal William Yard is actually home to 3 of the places mentioned in this post, the yard really is the place to be when the weekend comes around. Whether you want some tea and cake, breakfast or an evening meal, Seco Lounge caters to everything and there is plenty of seating inside. Like most restaurants in the yard, they still have the original stone walls, and high ceilings - filled with lots of cosy chairs and wooden tables that are perfect for flatlaying your food! The pancakes at Seco Lounge are some of my favourite, and they're not the type that make you feel sick from feeling so full afterwards!

#6. Monty's

You can find Monty's on the cobbled streets of the Barbican which has been a favourite among people in Plymouth for years. Don't get me wrong, I absolutely loved Monty's, but it's not the place for you if you're looking for a dish that's instagrammable. I may sound obsessed, but this is a big deal for me. The lighting, table and presentation of the dish is imperative to me, as well as how it tastes!If you like full English breakfasts then you'll love Monty's, and I hear they're a great hangover cure! I actually love the pancake/bacon combo and this was the first place that I actually tried it. Presentation skills for me were a 3, but the pancakes were delicious, and I would definitely recommend.

#7. Bistrot Pierre

Bistrot Pierre was one of my favourites for pancakes, it was also the first time I'd ever tried out this restaurant and it's definitely the slightly more upper class, refined place for breakfast. It's not all about full english breakfasts here! Situated in the historic Royal William Yard, we had one of the best seats by the window and I could have stayed there all day watching the world go by. As far as drinks go, tea and coffee are such a great choice as they offer unlimited refills, really justifying being able to take your time and relax with your breakfast. The pancakes were beautifully presented and they even brought out a massive jug of maple syrup which a lot of other restaurants don't offer unless your pancakes come with bacon!

#8. Rocksalt

Rocksalt was one of the first places that I sarted on my breakfast tour of Plymouth, and of course in true fashion I started off with their American pancakes that I had heard so much about. Rocksalt is really tucked away, I didn't even know it existed until I started seeing rave reviews about the restaurant. It also has a sister restaurant in Plymouth called Salumi. They have an extensive breakfast menu with lots of hot options. Hats off to Rocksalt for creating such an insta friendly restaurant, table setup and presentation of the food was spot on. The American pancakes were like nothing I had ever tried before, the stack of 3 was wayyyy too much for me too eat as they were almost thick enough to be doughnuts! Despite being defeated, I'll definitely be popping back, but maybe to share a stack next time?

#9. Jacka Bakery

Oh Jacka Bakery <3 I have been meaning to visit this quaint little bakery on the Barbican for quite some time, it is in fact the oldest commercially working bakery in Great Britain, and I just love the history, charm and character that this bakery has. As expected, they have quite a selection of homemade breads, cakes, pastries and a few hot breakfast dishes. It was a similar selection to The Bakery and I went for a fail safe hot chocolate and pain au chocolate, a winning combo for a cold Sunday morning. Jacka Bakery is very small inside with only a few tables, they also recommend coming early during the day as their produce sells out quickly, which is no surprise when they've built up a fantastic reputation in Plymouth, and their baked goods are second to none. This was one of my favourite places for breakfast, as it really offered it all. So simple, SO tasty and tucked away in one of my favourite places in Plymouth.

#10. The Boathouse Cafe

The Boathouse Cafe is a great all rounder for me, they also made it into my top 10 independent cafes post! This was also my last stop on my breakfast tour, and what a way to finish. Situated next to the harbour on the Barbican, it really is breakfast goals, especially when the sun is shining! They have a really good breakfast menu, and it is probably one of the most extensive out of all of the places. Their bacon baps are also amazing, and of course the pancakes with bacon and maple syrup, mmmm! I had to end as I started after all...

So there we have it, 10 of the best places for breakfast in Plymouth, what a great bunch! I think it's important to point out that I wasn't sponsored or invited to any of these to review, I generally just love trying out and discovering new places in Plymouth, and I loved writing my best cafe's post so much so that I wanted to delve into the brunching world, and boyyyy do I love it! I love how Plymouth is home to some of the cutest and most quaint places for breakfast, and it's even better when it's in the sun on a Sunday morning, Plymouth really is rather special isn't it?

Have you been to any of these places before? Do you have any other recommendations for places to eat breakfast in Plymouth?

Follow me on Bloglovin , Twitter , Instagram

Lush Halloween 2016 Haul

There's honestly nothing I love more about winter than long, hot lush baths - don't they just make everything better? After my local Lush Halloween & Christmas preview, I was inundated with bath products that I wanted to pick up, I try to buy the whole collection of the seasonal ranges as I just love trying them all out, and this years collection has 100% outdone last years. I was also lucky enough to get the big Pumpkin gift for my Birthday, so I have plenty of bath bombs, bath melts and shower gels to get stuck into. You'll be in for a bewitching bath time treat with this little collection, but the question is, will I be able to use them all up before Halloween?

Okay, so this little cutie is part of the Christmas range, but I couldn't wait to show you this little guy! Jester bubble bar wand comes with a dinky little bell and ribbon, with just the cutest little face. I love bubble bars as they're so long lasting, I can usually get 5 baths out of them at a push. Swish it around the bath for plenty of bubbles and lots of colour, this one smells like zesty tangerines, yum!

If you're #TeamTwilight you are going to LOVE their new additions to the twilight range. I have been hankering after twilight shower gel since the first limited edition ones came out almost 4 years ago. To be reunited with the body lotion that is scented like twilight is heavenly. It is the most mousturising and gorgeous smelling body lotion I have ever used, unfortunately this is also going to be a limited edition item so I'm going to have to stock up on this one before it goes. It's the perfect post bathtime skin treat, before slipping on my fav cactus pjs! 

I always love the seasonal shower gels they release, Rose Jam was one of my favourites from a couple of years ago which is also back this year! Bubbly shower gel certainly packs a punch, it's super fruity, zesty and scented with sweet orange oil and fresh grape juice! 

I rarely pick up soaps from Lush as I'm very much an anti-bac soap girl, I definitely have a minor OCD when it comes to washing hands, especially when I'm trying to avoid colds in the office... But I got given these little samples of Santas Postbox and Shooting Stars soap at the blogger event. Their soaps do smell sooo amazing though and I'm already giving Shooting Stars a try! I'm currently keeping Santa's postbox in my drawer and it is smelling amazing, I can't wait to get it out for the run up to Christmas, eek! 

Sparkly Pumpkin is back for another year and it will always remain as my bubble bar of choice for the actual day of Halloween. It's super glittery and it produces a carrot coloured, bubbly bath. But if glitter isn't for you, they've also released a plain pumpkin bath bomb this year!

Oh, Boo! You were wrong if you didn't think their selection could get any cuter! Boo is the cuest mini bubble bar around, this ghoulish guy is scented with mimosa, and earthy warming ginger. As it melts into the bath it leaves behind a ghoulish, noursishing cocoa butter trail.

Lord of misrule is back with a vengeance this year after being slightly redesigned, I love the colours this one fizzes out when it's popped into the bath. It features a spicy herbal blend of patchouli and black pepper oil for a fragrant bath. This years version also contains popping candy in the middle, what's not to love?

For those who just want a good old classic for Halloween, this pumpkin bath bomb will do just the trick. Besides from being super cute, it is scented with a comforting vanilla absolute and spicy cinnamon scent, I can't wait to have a soak with this one on a cold, rainy night! 

The thing I love most about Autumn is all the beautiful colours we see from the falling leaves, and Autumn Leaf bath bomb beautifully captures this. As it slowly fizzes away like a cartwheel it continues to release more autumnal colours, it's probably one of the most colourful from the Halloween collection. It's a real winter warmer! 

Monsters Ball bath bomb is a new addition to the Halloween collection this year and he is just perfect!! He reminds me of Monsters Inc with the colouring and cyclops eye! I used this one at the weekend, and loved the beautiful mix of colours that fizzed away, even once the bath bomb has fizzed you won't miss the little eye that peeks through the bubbles!

The Halloween products are hauntingly good, and I'm so ready to embrace the cold, dark winter nights now. Nothing seems too bad when you have a colourful, fragrant bath bomb to indulge in after a day at work. I'm not going out in fancy dress for Halloween this year, but you'll find me having a bath or two with one of these guys over the weekend! 

Have you picked up anything from the Lush halloween collection? What are your plans for Halloween?

Follow me on Bloglovin , Twitter , Instagram