Say hello to our shopping team’s favourite products this week, from Medik8, Mylee and more
Somehow, it’s almost June (where did May go?), which means summer is knocking, and so is payday for many of us. If you’ve been holding off on a little treat-yourself moment, now’s the perfect time to finally hit ‘add to cart.’
If you need a little inspiration, our shopping writers, Lauren and Tiffany, are here to help. They’ve rounded up the best buys of the moment – from buzzy new launches to time-tested staples.
This week’s lineup includes a brand-new skincare saviour from Medik8 and a fresh, maple-flavoured addition to Laneige’s cult lip glaze collection. Meanwhile, we’ve also pinned down a dreamy summer dress from Boden and a luxe foundation from Chantecaille that’s worth every penny.
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So, what are you waiting for? Let’s get scrolling.
Lauren’s picks:
Roman Original’s Shirred Midi Dress – £32 from £42
Roman Originals has dropped a gorgeous new boho-inspired range for summer – some of which looks much more expensive than the price tags suggest. This blue and white printed midi dress, for instance, resembles a Nobody’s Child or Joanie effort, but it’s only £32 in the sale.
Its tile print design has us dreaming of turquoise oceans and sunny Greek islands, while its ruffled shoulder straps add a little elegance to the style. Shirred fabric is a winner for those who want to feel comfortable all day, especially when you’re suffering from post-cocktail bloat.
Additionally, it is made from 100% cotton, providing a soft and breathable feel. However, be cautious when washing, as cotton requires a little extra care to prevent it from shrinking.
Medik8 C-Tetra Advanced 20% Vitamin C Gel-Serum – £69
Medik8, renowned for its scientifically-backed formulas and effective skincare products (think Crystal Retinal), is already a go-to brand for many seeking that radiant glow. So, the buzz was palpable when I heard about the brand’s new C-Tetra Advanced 20% Vitamin C Gel-Serum.
Customers have reported that the gel serum imparts a ‘visible glow’ within a week, with one user noting it ‘gives a nice radiance to the face. ‘ Clinical trials revealed that 100% of users noticed noticeably brighter skin and a decrease in fine lines within seven days.
So, what sets this serum apart from your typical vitamin C dropper? It utilises tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate, a stabilised form of vitamin C that deeply penetrates to brighten and even out skin tone.
Devotees can also look forward to hyaluronic acid for hydration, along with phyto-exosomes, plant-derived ingredients known for soothing inflammation and fortifying the skin barrier. Essentially, it’s like your standard vitamin C serum – but amplified.
If you’re embarking on your journey to a glowing complexion, there are numerous other radiance-enhancing formulas to try. I also recommend Sunday Riley’s C.E.O. Glow Oil, which is perfect for dry skin types, and Ole Henriksen’s Banana Bright Vitamin C Serum for fading dark spots and improving fine lines.
LANEIGE Glaze Craze Tinted Lip Serum, Maple Glaze – £19
Laneige has whipped up another treat for your lips – introducing Glaze Craze Tinted Lip Serum in Maple Glaze, the latest addition to its dessert-inspired lineup. Known for its delicious flavours, such as vanilla, berry, and matcha, the brand’s newest creation is inspired by the smell and taste of a glazed doughnut.
This high-shine serum delivers serious hydration, leaving lips plump, juicy and glossy with a warm, sheer tint that flatters all skin tones. Infused with lip-loving ingredients, such as polypeptides to plump and smooth, and housed in a plush, pillowy application, it’s a proper sensory experience.
I loved this when I tried it, but I do prefer a more angled applicator. Another favourite of mine is Paula’s Choice Pro-Collagen Peptide Gloss, which features a sharper tip for precise application.
WoodWick Candles – prices vary
I’m a candle girl, through and through. From splurging on luxury picks from Jo Loves and D.S & Durga to stocking up on high-street favourites from Yankee Candle, I’ve never been one to resist a good scent.
Recently, though, I’ve been fully converted to WoodWick candles – and now I can’t stop burning them. If you haven’t tried one yet, they’re instantly recognisable thanks to their unique wooden wicks (hence the brand name). When lit, they crackle softly like a real fireplace – cosy, comforting and just the right kind of ASMR to start my day on a calm note.
I’m almost at the bottom of my Rosewood candle, which has a beautiful, light scent that feels fresh yet grounding – ideal for summer. Next up is Solar Ylang, a slightly muskier scent with jasmine and creamy sandalwood.
Beyond the scent, the large candles can go for up to 130 hours. And unlike some candles that fade into the background, these fill the whole room with a fragrance that lingers long after being blown out.
Tiffany’s picks:
Chantecaille Future Skin Oil-Free Foundation -£83
Chantecaille, the luxury beauty brand adored by celebrities, has recently relaunched its iconic Future Skin foundation, upgrading the formula with additional anti-ageing properties to address the skincare concerns of devoted shoppers. Beloved for its lightweight, second-skin effect, the oil-free foundation is a staple even among The Crown’s makeup artists, who swear by it for creating “flawless, healthy and luminous skin” on the hit series.
Beauty enthusiasts can grab the reinvented product exclusively online for £83, while Cult Beauty has slashed the price of the old formula by 15%. It is an expensive makeup, but it offers brightening, anti-ageing, and concealing coverage all in one pot.
The rejuvenated range now boasts seven additional hues, ensuring perfect colour matches, and sports environmentally friendly glass and aluminium packaging. Moreover, the foundation is enriched with a 58% water component and nurturing botanicals like Spiriolela Polyrrhiza, calming Chaga Mushroom, and a Mastic tree alternative to retinol.
Testers said it “delivers skin-like finish but better”, and some noticed an “instant younger appearance.”
Boden Maya Kimono Jersey Maxi Dress, £102 (with code JM7D)
Although the May bank holidays might be over, the summer weather has got me in a shopping mood for something fun and effortlessly stylish. With Boden dropping its new summer range, I spied this Maya Kimono Dress in a wide-sleeve kimono style, and this is sending dreams of being on The White Lotus series.
Featuring a loud foliage trail print in contrasting pink and green colours, the dress features a low V-neckline, a gathered waistline, and every shopper’s favourite – pockets. It’s a versatile piece that can be worn on your next vacation.
One delighted customer commented: “This is very wearable for a titch and does not swamp. Lovely colour, slightly low cut on the bodice, but not enough for anything to leap out and frighten the horses.”
I could see myself wearing this to UK seaside towns, spa resorts, and even a holiday outfit to southern Europe, and another shopper noted: “This stylish dress boasts ‘clever shaping’ to enhance your figure.”
Eylure Hybrid No210 False Lashes Pair and Lash Adhesive – £7
With makeup trends shifting towards a natural look, beauty lovers also prefer a lighter and more natural lash look. As a short-lash girl, I find going for a full, wispy look too dramatic – I would prefer shorter, lighter wings without that telltale falsie glare.
The Eylure Hybrid No. 210 pair is a full-strip lash that offers natural volume with a light texture, creating a spikey, defined salon lash look. I am eager to try these, and I think they will be perfect for everyday wear and night-out glam.
If full strip lashes are still too much, there is also an option for cluster lashes in different lengths so shoppers can customise their look and be their own lash tech. Eylure’s Clusters Fluffy, £8, has 36 sets of cluster lashes, while Ardell’s Naked Trio Lashes are at a lower price point at £5.95.
Bijoux de Mimi Bangle Gold Star Bangle – £35.50
Colourful jewellery always puts a smile on my face, and Bijoux de Mimi’s alluring gemstone pave bangle is a lovely statement piece of arm candy for summer. Since I picked this up last week, I’ve found this rainbow-coloured version in a gold-plated bangle always receives compliments.
Crafted from 18K PVD electroplated stainless steel, the bangle also features a new and improved round clasp to stay securely in place on the arm. It is also water-resistant, hypoallergenic, and designed for extended wear without fading or tarnishing.
Known as the “original colourful jewellery”, the collection also features dainty huggie earrings, such as the Rainbow Huggie Earring Stacker Set, £47, a four-piece huggie earring stack that includes a cuff and chain, creating the visual effect of a fifth piercing.
Mylee Gel Nail Wraps – £13.99
Scrolling through Instagram, I’m seeing many posts about summer nail inspirations. Still, with no time for a manicure, I usually opt for an easy single-colour nail varnish to keep things simple. But Mylee’s new gel nail wraps have got me excited.
Available in various patterns, this Berries and Cream is my top pick. The check pattern and cherry figures are perfect for the upcoming Wimbledon season. The wraps are easy to use, and beginners can also purchase a Prep & Peel Kit, £24.99, which comes with a nail prep wipe, nail file, a pair of scissors for trimming excess gel nail wraps, a remover oil, and a metal cuticle pusher.
