August has arrived, and with no signs of the hot weather slowing down, we won't be putting away our sandals or open-toed shoes anytime soon. Which means there is still so much fun to be had choosing a summer pedicure colour for the month ahead.

Whilst we may be heading towards the end of summer, August is a time when many of us are heading away on holiday, or perhaps your weekends are booked up with weddings, festivals or staycations. That being said, we're also on the cusp of transitioning into autumn, and so you may be looking for some pedicure colours to take you through August and into early September that aren't too summery either.

So, if you're looking for some pedicure inspiration to carry you through the rest of the month, scroll on for the chicest August pedicure trends to bring to your next salon appointment. Or, if you're doing your pedi at home, I've rounded up the chicest nail polishes and tools to recreate the look.

August Pedicure Trends 2026

1. Strawberry French

I adore this strawberry blush French pedi, which is a summery take on the classic French pedicure and perfect for this time of year if you want something bright yet timeless. The key is to go for a bright yet sheer pink base, which makes the French tip pop even more.

Shop the Trend:

2. Azure Blue

After many seasons of the classic pedicure shades dominating my feeds, Hailey Bieber's blue pedicure feels like a breath of fresh air and is the perfect August pedicure shade to go for if you're jetting away on holiday or enjoying the summer weather at home. She's wearing this exact OPI nail colour listed below.

Shop the Trend:

3. Subtle Shimmer

If you're a nail colour minimalist but want to dip a toe in something a little more fun for August, then allow me to suggest a sheer shimmer. At first glance, it looks like a sheer pink pedicure, but the shimmer will catch the light in the most delicate way whenever the sun hits it. Look for polishes with sheer shimmer particles rather than metallic finishes to keep it looking modern.

Shop the Trend:

4. Tomato Red

To me, nothing screams summer more than a bright tomato red nail colour on your toes. How stunning is this fiery red? It looks amazing on all skin tones and is a classic pedi shade that isn't boring either.

Shop the Trend:

5. Classic French

If you're prone to indecision as soon as your pedicure appointment arrives, then go for a classic French. It's a great neutral that you won't regret, and it will see you through any occasion, from summer holidays to weddings.

Shop the Trend:

6. Natural Pink

If you've been enjoying the bare nail trend on your hands, then why not give it a try on your toes? Sheer pink polishes are a great way to perfect the nail and add a glossy shine, giving you a "your toes, but better" finish that ensures your feet look neat and healthy-looking.

Shop the Trend:

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including some skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

Between thin eyebrows, millennial pink and skinny jeans, it’s clear that 2026 is the year of the 2016 comeback. However, none of these things has got me quite as excited as the return of eyeshadow. Of course, eyeshadow never really left, but between the natural-looking "clean girl" aesthetic that dominated the past few years and the rise of quiet luxury, it just felt like eyeshadow took a back seat to natural, "no makeup" makeup looks that prioritised blush, lip oils and lightweight brow products instead.

Well, if you’re over makeup minimalism, as I am, I come bearing good news: eyeshadow is officially back for 2026.

And with this comes a much better selection of products suited to dark skin tones than we saw 10 years ago. Gone are the days of ashy palettes that make dark skin look washed-out and dull, and in their place lies a myriad of beautifully deep eyeshadows suited to every undertone and colour preference.

And luckily for you, I’ve rounded up the best of the best below. Keep scrolling to discover the best eyeshadows for dark skin in 2026.

The Best Eyeshadows for Dark Skin

• Best Overall: Danessa Myricks Groundwork Palette in Defining Neutrals, £74
• Best Warm-Toned Option: Makeup By Mario Master Mattes Palette, £55
• Best Cool-Toned Option: Natasha Denona Glam Palette, £67
• Best Neutral Option: MAC Cosmetics Connect In Colour Palette in Unfiltered Nudes, £46
• Best Shimmery Option: Pat McGrath Labs Mothership XII Palette in Petalmorphosis, £119

1. Danessa Myricks Groundwork Palette in Defining Neutrals

2. MAC Cosmetics Connect In Colour Palette in Unfiltered Nudes

3. Makeup By Mario Master Mattes Palette

4. Natasha Denona Glam Palette

5. Pat McGrath Labs Mothership XII Palette in Petalmorphosis

6. Marc Jacobs Beauty Born Star Cream-to-Powder Eyeshadow

7. Fenty Beauty Shadowstix Longwear Eyeshadow Stick

Shop My Eyeshadow Essentials

How I Tested

Many of the palettes in the roundup above are products I’ve been using in my own routines for months, and in some cases years. This means I can vouch for their ability to work on dark skin, high pigmentation, longevity and overall effectiveness, which proves why they deserve a spot in your cosmetics bag.

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

As a summer baby who's obsessive about perfume, I've always found it strange that I'm not drawn to the scents we typically associate with the season. When you picture the twinkling seas of the Côte d'Azur or the rugged greenery of Tuscany, you likely imagine spritzing yourself with sweet fruits or sun-soaked florals. But those fragrances rarely capture the complexity of the landscapes that inspire them.

Orange rind, lemon peel, fig and crushed basil aren't just bright and juicy, they're sharp, earthy and most importantly, bitter, and that's where this summer's most unexpected fragrance trend comes in.

Bitter perfumes may sound intimidating, but they're anything but. Rather than leaving a harsh aftertaste, they lend a sophisticated edge that feels nuanced and more evocative of the hallmarks of summer. "There's freshness through contrast rather than sweetness," explains Almira Armstrong, founder of niche perfume brand Lumira. "They still evoke summer, but through citrus trees, sun-warmed herbs and evening aperitifs rather than tropical fruit or dessert. That makes them a more elevated and unexpected interpretation of the season and one that transitions especially well from day into evening."

And they're great in the heat, too. Unlike sugary gourmands that can feel cloying, notes like lime, bergamot, lemongrass and tomato leaf leave a cooling, refreshing sensation on the skin. So, without further ado, scroll for the scents that truly bottle long, balmy days.

The Best Bitter Fruits Perfumes 2026

• Best Overall Bitter Perfume: D.S. & Durga Coriander, £155
• Best High-Street Bitter Perfume: Lush Grass, £95
• Best Long-Lasting Bitter Perfume: Penhaligon's Juniper Sling, £85
• Best Unisex Bitter Perfume: Juliette Has a Gun Ex Vetiver, £100
• Best Holiday Bitter Perfume: Diptyque Eau Des Sens, £102

1. D.S. & Durga Coriander

During a heatwave, it can feel too heavy to wear perfume, but I'll always make an exception for D.S. & Durga's Coriander. It's a love letter to, you guessed it, coriander, but don't fret if you're not partial to the herb—it's so refreshing that you'll want to douse yourself with it to cool off. There's pepper, bitter juniper needle, bracing clary sage and a creamy base of magnolia and musk. Expect to be asked what fragrance you're wearing...

2. Shiso Jil Sander

Inspired by an early morning walk, this scent from Jil Sander's latest collection, Olfactory Series 1, is unlike anything else in my collection. Like a breath of fresh air, it opens with fizzy aldehydes and a bitter lime accord to evoke its namesake Japanese herb, Shiso. As it wears on the skin, you'll also spot juniper berry and sultry Australian sandalwood. It gets bonus points for its minimalist packaging—that cloche lid looks so very chic on my vanity.

3. Diptyque Eau Des Sens

Countless fragrances are touted as "summer in a bottle", but for me, it doesn't get better than this from Diptyque. The orange facets make it incredibly juicy, but thanks to the addition of bitter peel, it steers clear of the artificial feel that's common in many fruity scents. It's bright, sunny, surprisingly complex, and a total compliment magnet.

4. Lush Grass

If you love the smell of just-cut grass, then Lush's Grass is that nostalgia bottled. It's a green scent in every sense of the word, with notes of sun-dappled moss, zesty bergamot and leafy florals. But you don't smell like you've just rolled around in a field for too long; the fragrance grounds itself with sandalwood and neroli oil, which gives a smoky sultriness that lingers on the skin well into the night. It's so energising that I like to spray it first thing in the morning for an olfactory wake-up call.

5. Penhaligon's Juniper Sling

There's nothing better than whiling away a balmy afternoon, sipping crisp, cold gin and tonics. But if you're not able to make it down to the pub, a spritz of Penhaligon's Juniper Sling will do. It captures the tartness of gin thanks to orange brandy and juniper berry, but the booziness is balanced beautifully on the dry down with spicy black pepper, brown sugar and earthy vetiver.

7. Lumira Soleil Du Maroc

This scent from niche Australian fragrance brand Lumira is designed to transport your senses to Morocco. There's the hustle and bustle of Marrakech's famous markets, rendered through radiant lemongrass, basil and lime zest. Then, there's mysterious agarwood oud, cedar and musk to represent the majestic beauty found up north in the Atlas Mountains. If you're not going on holiday anytime soon, treat yourself to a bottle of this.

8. Juliette Has A Gun Ex Vetiver

If you want a "grown-up" summer scent, you can't go wrong with Ex Vetiver. It's the most bitter on this list, but don't worry, like all of this brand's fragrances, it's supremely wearable, despite its uniqueness. Of course, there's lots of earthy, woody vetiver, but all the citrus notes (bergamot and lemon essence) brighten it considerably. It's a true unisex perfume, and its long-lasting sillage means that it wears beautifully.

9. Discothèque Sweat, Tears, Paradise

I love how my skin smells after I've been swimming in the sea; there's a salty, bitter salinity that's hard to recreate, but Discothèque's Sweat, Tears, Paradise does just that. Punchy absinthe, samphire, and salty lily mingle with ambroxan, sea salt, mimosa and mist before cocooning cedarwood and musks take over. It's light, airy and oh-so moreish.

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

Retinoids, niacinamide, and vitamin C might dominate the skincare ingredients conversation, but if you ask me, azelaic acid is one of the most overlooked ingredients on the market. Despite being recommended by dermatologists for decades, it still doesn't receive the same attention as many of today's trending actives, which is surprising given how many concerns it can address at once. Whether you're dealing with breakouts, persistent redness, post-inflammatory pigmentation, uneven skin tone, and even rosacea, azelaic acid is one of the few ingredients that can tackle them all while remaining incredibly gentle on the skin.

It's an ingredient I've used in my own routine for years and one I recommend to many of my clients as an esthetician. Unlike stronger actives, which can sometimes trigger irritation before delivering results, azelaic acid is generally very well tolerated, making it particularly useful for people with sensitive skin who still want to treat concerns such as acne or pigmentation.

"Azelaic acid is a famously multitasking ingredient," explains consultant dermatologist and Simple ambassador Beibei Du-Harpur. "At prescription strength, it is a treatment for skin conditions such as acne and rosacea, and it can also help with some types of pigmentation concerns. Because it's very safe, it is used a lot in pregnancy and in those trying to conceive. As it is a treatment for rosacea skin, which is very sensitive, it is a really helpful option for those with multiple skin concerns who are prone to irritation."

While prescription formulas remain the gold standard, over-the-counter azelaic acid serums have become increasingly sophisticated, making it easier than ever to incorporate the ingredient into your daily routine. Below, dermatologists explain exactly what azelaic acid is, how it works, and who can benefit most from using it.

What Is Azelaic Acid?

"Azelaic acid is an active ingredient that is found in both prescription and cosmetic skincare formulations," says Du-Harpur. "It is also a naturally occurring substance found in wheat and rye."

Consultant dermatologist and Head of Medical at Skin + Me Jason Thomson adds that it's also "a naturally occurring dicarboxylic acid that can be produced by malassezia, a type of yeast that normally lives on the skin." He explains that it has "been used by dermatologists for decades to treat acne and rosacea, as well as concerns such as hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tone." Despite the name, it doesn't behave like exfoliating acids such as glycolic or salicylic acid. "Although it is called an acid, it works differently from exfoliating acids such as AHAs and BHAs and is often gentler on the skin," he adds.

What Does Azelaic Acid Do?

One of the reasons dermatologists love azelaic acid is because it targets several different pathways in the skin simultaneously. "Azelaic acid is a real multitasker, which is why we recommend it so often," says Thomson. "It has anti-inflammatory properties that can help calm redness and inflamed spots, making it particularly useful for acne and rosacea. It also helps to normalise the way skin cells are shed inside the pores, reducing the blockages that lead to blackheads, whiteheads and acne breakouts."

Beyond blemishes, it also works on pigmentation. "Azelaic acid can inhibit tyrosinase, an enzyme involved in the production of melanin," Thomson explains. "With regular use, it can therefore help improve post-acne marks, melasma, and other forms of hyperpigmentation."

Du-Harpur notes that while prescription formulations have the strongest evidence behind them, cosmetic products can still be worthwhile. "Because of its usefulness in these skin conditions, cosmetic formulations have been developed containing azelaic acid, albeit at a lower percentage than the prescription formulas. These may provide some of the benefits the prescription products do, but it's worth mentioning that most cosmetic formulas haven't been assessed at the final formulation level, so the benefits are theoretical based on the presence of the ingredient rather than being formally tested for effectiveness."

Who Is Azelaic Acid Suitable for?

Perhaps azelaic acid's biggest strength is how many people can benefit from it. "It is suitable for most people but particularly those with sensitive skin alongside other skin concerns," says Du-Harpur. "It can help with redness, spots, and mild pigmentation concerns. It doesn't yield dramatic changes but can gradually calm and improve skin concerns over time."

Thomson agrees, particularly highlighting its versatility. "Azelaic acid is suitable for a wide range of skin types and can be particularly helpful for people with acne, rosacea, post-acne marks, melasma or uneven skin tone," he says. "It is often a good option for people whose skin is both acne-prone and sensitive, particularly if they struggle to tolerate retinoids or stronger exfoliating acids."

He also points out another major benefit: "Azelaic acid can generally be used during pregnancy, unlike topical or oral retinoids, which must be avoided. This can make it particularly useful for pregnancy-related acne or melasma," although he advises anyone using medicated skincare during pregnancy to discuss it with their doctor or dermatologist.

Are There Any Downsides to Using Azelaic Acid?

Compared with many active ingredients, azelaic acid has relatively few drawbacks. In fact, Du-Harpur points out that "it is actually a treatment for reaction-prone skin (and rosacea), so it is generally well tolerated." Instead, she says the main limitation is that "sometimes its benefits need time to manifest, and it can also be insufficiently effective if used alone, meaning it may need to be used alongside other actives."

Like any skincare ingredient, some irritation is still possible, particularly when first introducing it. "Azelaic acid is generally well tolerated, but it can cause irritation, particularly when someone first starts using it or introduces a higher-strength product," says Thomson. "Possible reactions include tingling, stinging, itching, redness, dryness and mild peeling."

Fortunately, this can usually be minimised by introducing it slowly. "I would normally recommend using it every other night or two to three times a week initially, then increasing the frequency as the skin becomes accustomed to it," he says. "Applying a simple moisturiser alongside it and avoiding the introduction of several active ingredients at the same time can also help."

The Best Azelaic Acid Serums

1. Best Overall: Skin + Me Daily Doser
2. Best Affordable Azelaic Acid Serum: The Ordinary Azelaic Acid 10% Suspension
3. Best Luxury Azelaic Acid Serum: Allies of Skin Azelaic & Kojic Advanced Brightening Serum
4. Best for Breakout-Prone Skin: La Roche-Posay Effaclar AZ Gel Cream
5. Best for Redness and Rosacea: Paula's Choice 10% Azelaic Acid Booster

1. Skin + Me Daily Doser

Skin + Me’s Daily Doser is my overall top pick because it takes away so much of the guesswork that can come with building a skincare routine. Rather than asking you to navigate the endless world of actives yourself, the dermatologist-led service creates a personalised prescription formula based on your individual skin concerns. That means azelaic acid can be combined with other proven ingredients, such as tretinoin or niacinamide, where appropriate, making it a particularly brilliant option for anyone juggling multiple concerns—whether that’s breakouts, redness, uneven texture, pigmentation or early signs of ageing. The innovatively designed Daily Doser allows you to dispense just the right amount of product, and your dose can be adjusted by your prescriber based on your skin's changing needs over time.

2. The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%

If you’re curious about azelaic acid but don’t want to commit to an expensive serum, The Ordinary’s Azelaic Acid 10% Suspension is a brilliant place to start. Definitely one of the most accessible ways to introduce this ingredient into your routine, and offering a 10% concentration (the highest percentage generally available without prescription) at a fraction of the price of many comparable formulas. The texture is slightly different from your typical serum (it’s more of a silky cream-gel thanks to its silicone base), but personally, I quite like this. It leaves my skin feeling incredibly smooth and creates a lovely canvas under makeup.

3. Allies of Skin Azelaic & Kojic Advanced Clarifying Serum

For those who want a more elevated azelaic acid treatment, this serum combines the ingredient with a carefully selected blend of brightening and antioxidant ingredients. This is a formula designed less around treating individual breakouts and more around achieving a brighter, more even complexion over time. The inclusion of kojic acid makes it particularly appealing for anyone concerned with pigmentation, sun spots or lingering marks after acne, while the barrier-supportive ingredients help prevent the dryness that can sometimes accompany active ingredients.

4. La Roche-Posay Effaclar A.Z. Gel Cream

If you’re someone who finds that your skin can be both blemish-prone and easily irritated, this is the kind of formula I’d reach for. One of the biggest challenges when treating breakouts is that many acne-fighting ingredients can leave the skin feeling dry, tight or sensitised, which can ultimately compromise the barrier and make redness look worse. This formula takes a gentler approach, combining azelaic acid with ingredients designed to support clearer-looking skin without the harshness often associated with traditional breakout treatments. Plus, the gel-cream formula itself feels soothing and cooling, and is easy to layer into your daily skincare routine.

5. Paula's Choice 10% Azelaic Acid Booster

6. Beauty Pie Happy Face 10% Azelaic Acid Skin-Clearing Gel-Cream

7. Naturium Azelaic Acid 10%

8. Skn to Skn Multi-Tasking Face Serum

9. Dr Sam's Flawless Brightly Serum

How We Tested

To find the best azelaic acid serums, we assessed each formula based on its percentage of azelaic acid, supporting ingredients, texture, ease of application and suitability for different skin concerns. We considered products recommended by dermatologists, formulas with a variety of ingredient combinations and products that have built a loyal following among skincare users. We tested each product ourselves, but also analysed customer feedback to understand how each serum performs for multiple skin types and concerns, including its effectiveness, tolerability and any potential drawbacks.

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products over the years—spanning skincare, makeup, hair and nails—and work closely with trusted experts, including dermatologists, makeup artists and leading industry insiders to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

I could count on one hand the number of people I'd take beauty recommendations from. As someone who has worked in the industry for many years, I've learnt to become sceptical of any viral trend, brand or product, and prefer to test things out myself before giving my opinion. However, at Who What Wear UK, we have the most in-the-know network of contributing editors, and honestly? Anything they recommend goes to the top of my must-try list.

With summer in full swing and my beauty routine in need of a refresh, I wanted to find out which products our editors-in-residence swear by for the warmer weather, from SPF to multi-use makeup and holiday perfumes that transport you with just one spritz. It's not often you get to peek inside the makeup bags of some of your favourite brand founders and creators, so it's safe to say I was pretty excited about writing this piece.

I reached out to some of the biggest voices shaping today's beauty industry and asked them to share their ride-or-die summer beauty products for 2026. Below, you'll find a curated edit of summer beauty buys that look just as exquisite as they are efficacious. I highly recommend you keep scrolling, but be warned: you might find yourself wanting to add every single thing to your basket…

The Best Summer Beauty Products of 2026, Recommended by Experts

Victoria Magrath, Makeup Brand Founder and Content Creator

Founder of byfrow Beauty, Victoria Magrath is no stranger to what makes a sought-after beauty product. Having worked with some of the biggest names in the industry, from Dyson to Medik8 and Armani Beauty, I trust her implicitly for makeup, skincare, haircare and fragrance recommendations. It should come as no surprise that her summer beauty favourites have already made their way into my makeup bag.

1. Clé De Peau Beauté UV Protective Cream SPF50

2. byfrow Hue Glazing Balm SPF50

3. Jo Malone London Sea Salt and Bergamot Fragrance

Sharmadean Reid, Entrepreneur and Author

When Sharmadean Reid MBE recommends a beauty product, I listen. Author, innovator, entrepreneur and founder of the ultimate bathing brand 39BC, her summer beauty recommendations focus on taking it slow. "I’ve spent the last few weeks getting ready for Jamaica, which, if you know me, mostly means editing my packing list, Reid says. "I’m an unapologetic hand-luggage-only traveller. I love the challenge of seeing how little I can take and somehow still have everything I need.

"The only reason I’m checking a suitcase this year is that it’s full of books. I’ve been building a reading list for the research behind our next 39BC collection, and apparently anthropology books weigh more than bikinis. When you’re travelling with so little, every product has to earn its place. Everything I pack has been thoroughly road-tested and has a very specific job to do."

Apart from her go-to Eadem lip balm (which we are all patiently waiting to make its way to the UK), these are the three summer beauty products Reid can't live without.

1. Biore UV Aqua Rich Water Essence Sunscreen SPF50

2. CeraVe Invisible Hydrating Sunscreen SPF50

3. Rollr Vetiver on Green Aventurine Gemstone Deodorant

Harriet Westmoreland, Celebrity Manicurist and Nail Brand Founder

If you've found yourself admiring your favourite celeb's manicure this summer, chances are, Harriet Westmoreland created it. I often look to the top celebrity manicurist (and founder of Westmoreland Cosmetics) for beauty inspiration, and who can blame me? One look at Westmoreland's Instagram feed and you'll soon learn that her summer beauty must-haves are the chicest around.

This season, when she's not busy painting the hands of the rich and famous, you'll find her poolside, reading Finding Grace by Loretta Rothschild, her current non-beauty summer essential.

1. Acqua di Parma Buongiorno Al Bacio

2. Chanel Éclat Premier Bright Milky Essence

3. Anua PDRN Hyaluronic Acid Hydrating Capsule Mist

Jane McFarland, Editor-in-Chief, Who What Wear UK

Of course, I had to ask Who What Wear UK editor-in-chief, Jane McFarland, for her summer beauty must-haves. In true Who What Wear style, these products look as if they're straight out of a summer beauty shoot. But don't take their packaging alone as proof; the formulas are just as effective.

1. Westman Atelier Sun Tone Bronzing Crème

2. Mecca Cosmetica To Save Face SPF50+ Matte Sun Serum

3. L'Oreal Paris Infallible Faux Brow Tint Pen

August is the month when even the most ardent fans of nail minimalism (myself included) can embrace a little more colour. But the real upside of this month is that, with summer still in full swing and autumn just around the corner, it's the perfect time to go with whatever suits your mood.

Best of all, if you're over summer nail trends in the form of sugary pastels and barely-there neutrals, this month's biggest nail colour trends offer something with a little more depth. If you've got a holiday coming up, then you know that jewel-toned teals and shimmering pastels are very much a vibe, according to my go-to pro Daisy Kalnina, founder & CEO of The GelBottle Inc.

Missing more autumnal tones? She also tells me that earthy olives, glossy espresso browns and fiery reds are making an appearance and effortlessly bridge the seasons. Whether you're off to the salon or planning your next at-home manicure, these are shades to bookmark. With that said, happy new nail month to all those who celebrate.

The 7 Most Stylish Nail Colours For August

1. Dark Teal

Dark green lovers rejoice. "Teal had a real moment this summer, but as we head into late August, we’ll see it transition into a richer, moodier dark teal," says Kalnina. "It bridges the gap between summer brightness and autumn depth perfectly, giving a jewel-toned finish that feels elevated and unexpected."

2. Earthy Olive Green

You’d be hard-pressed not to have swooned over a milky pistachio nail manicure these past few months and Kalnina agrees. "Pistachio greens were also a summer hit, but August will see sweet pastels translate into muted olive and moss tones. Olive feels grounded and neutral while still offering a subtle pop of colour, making it the ultimate transitional shade for early autumn." If you’re in the salon, ask for ‘Savage’ from The GelBottle, it's perfect for this trend.

3. Magnetic Pastel

"Magnetic cat-eye finishes aren’t going anywhere," reveals Kalnina. This look is particularly pleasing in late summer as the subtle magnetic shift over warm tones gives nails a molten glow in the late-afternoon sun.

4. High-Gloss Espresso

"Brown nails are a transitional staple, with people starting to look forward to darks for autumn," believes Kalnina. If you want to get in the trend earlier, then opt for a high gloss espresso hue as it works brilliantly in the summer months thanks to its warm undertones. On her prediction for how the trend will develop, she adds, "I suspect we’ll see sheers develop with espresso-like shades layered onto perfectly prepped manis, allowing the base to peek through."

5. Deep Tomato

"Red is a staple in any nail kit throughout the year, but August shifts the palette from bright, orange-toned summer tomato reds toward richer, fiery crimsons. It’s a classic choice that feels tailored and bold," explains Kalnina. We couldn't agree more.

6. Amber Yellow

If yellow is a hue that is still speaking to you, then you’ll be pleased to know that these are transitioning into warmer, golden upgrades. "Think amber, honey, and rich mustard tones that feel grounded rather than pastel," says Kalnina.

7. Sugar Plum

If you’re not ready to commit to deep autumn plums just yet, juicy sugar plum hues are the ultimate compromise. "They keep the playful, punchy energy of summer but with a semi-sheer jelly finish. They’re super glossy, eye-catching and buildable to your desired look," explains Kalnina.

I'll admit, I'm a bit of a snob when it comes to the best perfumes. Thanks to my job, I've been lucky enough to try some of the world's most luxurious fragrances, and they definitely don't come cheap. It means I've developed quite an expensive taste in scents, and I can't see that changing anytime soon. So, when I met my friend for brunch and immediately got a waft of one of the most elegant perfumes I've come across, I asked her what it was and was shocked to hear it was from Zara.

I've written about Zara perfumes in the past and definitely consider them some of the best affordable fragrances on the market. However, I didn't know that they could be this good. The minute I found out the name of the scent my friend was wearing (Zara Golden Decade, FYI), I went on the brand's website and was delighted to see that it was only £23. Honestly, it's giving my £230 perfumes a run for their money.

The only downside? This fragrance sells out a lot. It's finally back in stock, so I thought it was the perfect time to write about it, but if you want to smell it for yourself, you'd better act fast...

Zara Golden Decade

If you've considered buying this perfume yourself, you might have noticed that there are quite a few iterations available. Yes, it seems that the scent is so popular that Zara has expanded on the Golden Decade range, and I'm certainly not mad about it. However, let's talk about the original. This luminous, sensual scent is a true head-turner, with notes of mandarin, orange blossom, lavender and vanilla. Whilst it opens with an uplifting, citrusy aroma, the warm, sweet undertones soon unfurl onto the skin, creating this captivating blend that feels sophisticated yet modern. It's a true desk-to-date-night perfume that envelops the senses in this fruity, floral, heady cloud.

As mentioned, there are now different variations of the perfume available, and I have to say, they are just as captivating as the original. Whilst some of my favourites have already sold out, you can currently shop Golden Decade Elixir, an intense, concentrated version of the popular scent, alongside Golden Decade Sweet, a gourmand fragrance with heightened notes of vanilla. Honestly? I'm yet to come across a version I don't love.

You're probably thinking, for £23, the perfume can't last long, right? Wrong. Thanks to the warm, heady base, this actually lingers on the skin way longer than you'd expect from a high-street scent. Plus, thanks to the affordable price tag, I don't mind throwing a smaller bottle in my bag to top up throughout the day. I usually have some reservations with trending perfumes, but I know Golden Decade will be a firm favourite in my collection for years to come.

Shop the Perfume:

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including some skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

I make it no secret that I have a strong disdain for foundation. Truth be told, I hate the feeling of anything sitting on my face. I hate the way it transfers on my phone, the way it saps the dimension from my face, the way it always moves around and the way it eradicates the little imperfections that make me feel like me. That being said, my persistent dark circles, patches of pigmentation and acne scarring mean I'm not prepared to go totally coverage-free. So, over my years as a beauty editor, I have spent a lot of time trying to find the perfect lightweight base, and I'm pleased to announce that, 12 years later, I've found it.

Whilst many like the sheer and buildable nature of skin tints and tinted moisturisers, I still find them too heavy for my skin. Instead, I prefer to apply creamy, blendable concealer just to the areas of my face that I feel need it, and blend out accordingly. Finding the perfect concealer for this has not been easy. I need it to be lightweight but buildable, hydrating but long-lasting and brightening but not glowy.

The aim of the game? A concealer that conceals the areas I need it to without it being even slightly noticeable on the skin. And just when I thought my hopes for such a concealer formula were too high, Chanel launched its Les Beiges Serum Concealer, and now all is right in the world.

The Formula

The beauty of this formula is in its lightweight consistency. It possesses a water-like weightlessness that feels fresh and undeniably hydrating as soon as it hits the skin. It achieves this with an impressive lineup of ingredients. The formula is 89% skincare ingredients, including Chanel's iconic white camellia hydro-extract, which works to maintain the skin's moisture levels on an ongoing basis, as well as hyaluronic acid for an immediate burst of hydration and plumpness.

Available in 15 shades, the coverage itself is sheer but buildable, with a very fine (read: virtually undetectable) pearlescent effect.

The Application

If I'm being totally honest, the application of this concealer is nothing to write home about—it's the formula and the results that make it such a winner. It has a typical doe-foot applicator designed to be swiped or dotted over the skin. The point of difference is the cooling ceramic "foot", intended to create a cooling sensation under the eyes. And yes, it is cooling and generally pleasant to use. But, in my opinion, it's not totally necessary, especially considering the fact that I like to use it elsewhere on my face besides my under-eyes.

For everyday coverage, I swipe some under my eyes, around my nose and over my chin—my key problem areas in terms of dark circles, redness and some post-breakout scarring. When it comes to blending, I play around with different methods depending upon how much time I have. For more targeted coverage, I keep the formula exclusively in the areas I have applied it and tap it in with my fingers. Most days, however, I take a very light buffing brush and blend it gently over my skin.

The hydration-based formula means the concealer applies unlike any other I have ever tried—it doesn't sit on the skin and conceal what's underneath. Instead, it partially absorbs and becomes one with the skin, meaning it blends seamlessly, doesn't crease and leaves a true second-skin finish.

The Full Look

Chanel Les Beiges Serum Concealer has proved, without question, my most cherished product of the summer. I have worn it every single day since it first came into my possession in May. In fact, I have worn almost the same makeup look every day throughout summer. These are the natural-looking, creamy makeup products that go hand in hand with Les Beiges Serum Concealer.

I'll be honest, I'm not really a foundation lover. When I was a teenager, foundation formulas were thick, heavy and breakout-inducing, constantly settling into patches of dry skin and somehow making my skin look worse, rather than better. Instead, I reached for tinted moisturisers and skin tints, pairing them with my favourite concealers when I needed a little extra coverage.

However, formulas have come a long way in recent years, and brands have been creating sheer foundations that deliver everything I've ever wanted in a base product. Light-to-medium coverage, a lightweight feel, and a glowy finish that makes it look as if I spend my days getting weekly facials. What more could you want?

Since discovering these sheer foundation formulas, I've made it my mission to test some of the best on the market, and I've whittled it down to a concise edit of products that I know will be in my makeup bag for years to come. I've never had more compliments on my skin since swapping out my usual base products for these sheer formulas, so I highly suggest you keep on scrolling...

The Best Sheer Foundations, Tried & Tested

• Best Overall: Nars Cosmetics Sheer Glow Foundation, £41
• Best Luxury Foundation: Victoria Beckham Beauty The Foundation Drops With TFC8, £104
• Best Affordable Foundation: No7 Pro Artist Weightless Silk Sheer Foundation, £20
• Best Foundation Stick: Merit The Minimalist, £34
• Best for a Glowy Finish: Chanel Les Beiges Water-Fresh Complexion Touch, £56

1. Nars Cosmetics Sheer Glow Foundation

This is the OG of sheer foundations, and for good reason. The lightweight formula feels undetectable on the skin, and whilst a small amount offers a sheer, naturally radiant finish, the coverage is buildable, so you can create a slightly heavier base if desired. I love wearing this when I want to smooth and even out my skin, without feeling like I'm actually wearing a lot of makeup. My only complaint? I wish the bottle came with a pump, as I find it can be quite messy to apply.

2. Victoria Beckham Beauty The Foundation Drops With TFC8

I know, I know, this Victoria Beckham Beauty foundation is so expensive. But I wouldn't recommend it if it wasn't one of the best lightweight, sheer formulas on the market. It takes a skincare-first approach, powered by Augustinus Bader’s TFC8, but it's the finish that I can't get enough of. The product glides on like butter, creating this "your skin but better" effect that has everyone asking me what my current makeup routine is. I will say, a little goes a surprisingly long way, and if I apply too much, it can sometimes settle into dry skin or fine lines, so start with a small amount for the best results.

3. No7 Pro Artist Weightless Silk Sheer Foundation

I was really impressed when testing this No7 foundation. It has a lightweight, almost serum-like texture that melts into the skin, creating a beautiful, natural, second-skin finish. It definitely helps even out your skin tone; however, if you have any blemishes that you want to cover, you might want to go in with a concealer, too. It's packed with hyaluronic acid, vitamin C and vitamin E, so there are lots of added skincare benefits, but for me, the best thing about it is how quick and easy it is to apply. If you like a "no makeup" makeup look, you will love this.

4. Merit The Minimalist

If you prefer a foundation stick, this one from Merit is one of the best natural-looking options I've tried. It somehow seamlessly blends a lightweight, sheer finish with impressive coverage, essentially replacing both foundation and concealer in your makeup bag. You can either apply it to areas where you want more coverage, or all over for a blurring effect. My complexion can't get enough, but if you do have very dry skin, you might want to prep with a hydrating moisturiser or primer.

5. Chanel Les Beiges Water-Fresh Complexion Touch

I really, really love this complexion product from Chanel. So much so that I've worn it every single day since getting my hands on it. The unique, gel-like formula is actually made up of around 60% water, which means it hydrates the skin whilst creating the most gorgeous, glowy finish. Micro-droplet pigments burst onto the skin for impressive coverage, whilst remaining incredibly lightweight. Similar to the Victoria Beckham Beauty foundation, a little goes a long way. In fact, just one or two pumps gives an even, illuminated finish that has everyone commenting on how good my skin looks.

6. Dior Forever Skin Glow

I know it seems a bit counterintuitive to say that a sheer foundation has good coverage, but what I love about this formula is that a light layer gives a gorgeously glowy, sheer finish, but when you build it up, you can achieve a little more coverage if desired. It's a great middle ground packed with skin-loving ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, niacinamide and peptides. Fair play, Dior, fair play.

7. Estée Lauder Double Wear Sheer Long-Wear Foundation

It seems strange to have the words "Estée Lauder Double Wear" and "sheer" in the same sentence, but here we are. Whilst the original Double Wear formula is incredibly high coverage, this sheer iteration is ideal if you prefer a lightweight, second-skin base. It's so sheer that when I wear it, I feel like I'm wearing nothing at all. It doesn't cover blemishes, but it does even out your skin tone and add a natural radiance to your complexion, which both get big ticks from me.

8. Hourglass Veil Hydrating Skin Tint

I know this is technically a skin tint, but it's so impressive that it felt wrong not to include it in this roundup. Lightweight? Yes. Skin-loving ingredients? Yes. A blurring effect? Yes. A radiant finish? Yes! It's everything I want in a sheer foundation and more, wrapped up in Hourglass' chic packaging. If you feel like a sheer foundation is still a little bit too much for your "no makeup" makeup look, I urge you to try this.

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

I think that my hair has changed more in the last few years than it did in my previous three decades combined. Of course, hair has a natural growth cycle, and there have been years prior where my hair has felt a little bit frazzled due to over-styling or a bit dry due to too many holidays in the sun, but the combination of getting older and navigating postpartum hair loss twice means that the thick, resilient hair I once took for granted is now noticeably more fragile.

Yes, whilst I eventually managed to get the excessive hair shedding under control, the hair that has been left behind is undoubtedly more susceptible to breakage, way less forgiving of daily heat styling and generally feels a whole lot more brittle. I was close to chopping the whole lot off and embracing bob life when a hairstylist instead convinced me to overhaul my haircare routine first. You see, whilst I used to place a whole lot of emphasis on how my hair looked—whether that be products that minimise flyaways or bolster shine—my focus now needs to be on how to get my hair feeling stronger long-term.

Which is where a great hair-strengthening treatment comes in. Unlike your everyday conditioner, these formulas are designed to support weakened strands, strengthen the hair shaft and help reduce breakage over time. And that’s whether your hair has been compromised by bleach, heated hair tools, tight hairstyles or simply the natural changes that come with age and hormones. So over the past few weeks I’ve basically made it my mission to try as many treatments as possible to see whether they live up to their claims. Plus, I asked a hair expert for advice on what exactly I should be looking out for when choosing the best treatment.

The Best Strengthening Hair Treatments

• Best Overall Strengthening Hair Treatment: Living Proof Moisture Rescue Mask (£36)
• Best for Chemically Damaged Hair: Olaplex No.3 Plus Complete Repair Treatment (£32)
• Best for Long Hair: L'Oréal Paris Elvive Dream Lengths Hair Saviour Mask (£8)
• Best Strengthening Hair Treatment for Coarse Hair: Color Wow Dreaming Advance Repair and Resurfacing Treatment (£40)
• Best for Thinning Hair: Dove Scalp + Hair Therapy Density & Growth (£10)

1. Living Proof Moisture Rescue Mask

2. Olaplex No.3 Plus Complete Repair Treatment

3. L'Oréal Paris Elvive Dream Lengths Hair Saviour Mask

4. Color Wow Dreaming Advanced Repair and Resurfacing Treatment

5. Dove Scalp + Hair Therapy Density & Growth

6. Amika The Kure Intense Bond Repair Mask

7. TypeBea R.4 Intense Bond Repair Leave-In Treatment

8. Oribe Gold Lust Transformative Mask

9. Garnier Ultimate Blends Repairing Papaya Hair Food

Does Your Hair Need a Strengthening Hair Treatment?

Interestingly, unlike some hair treatments, there is no downside to adding a strengthening hair treatment to your routine—but there definitely are certain hair types that will benefit most from using one. “Anyone with colour-treated, bleached, heat-styled or chemically processed hair will need them most,” explains Cusick. “Any chemical process makes hair more porous and more vulnerable, and that's where hair treatments become non-negotiable.”

As to how you know if your hair is fragile, Cusick says that the signs are pretty obvious. “Excessive breakage when you brush, ends that feel rough or look frayed, hair that snaps rather than springs back, colour that fades quickly between appointments, or that general lack of shine that makes hair look tired even when it's clean,” she says. “If any of those sound familiar, your hair is telling you it needs some attention.” And that attention might just be in the form of a strengthening hair treatment.

How to Use a Strengthening Hair Treatment

Typically, I am not great at committing to hair treatments as I like all of my beauty routines to be fast and streamlined, but Cusick assures me that once a week is enough to improve the condition of your hair—but you do need to stick with it. “Consistency is everything. One treatment won't transform your hair, but a committed weekly routine absolutely will, and once clients stick to it they are always amazed by the difference,” she says. And if your hair is in a particularly damaged state, then you can use the treatment more regularly to begin with before dialling down to just weekly maintenance.

How We Tested

Of course, not every treatment lives up to its claims. Which is why for this edit I put a whole range of strengthening hair treatments to the test to work out which ones genuinely left my hair feeling stronger, as well as whether they were easy to use, felt good on the hair, and provided good value for money. Plus, I called on Cusick to share her favourite masks too, of course.

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products over the years—spanning skincare, makeup, hair and nails—and work closely with trusted experts including dermatologists, makeup artists and leading industry insiders to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

What sunscreen does a supermodel use to keep her skin hydrated, protected, and looking flawless under makeup? It's not a rhetorical question! If the supermodel in question is Kendall Jenner, then I know the answer. She's loyal to a certain Korean SPF that delivers long-lasting hydration, barrier support and a nearly invisible finish. The best part? It only costs £18, which is a fraction of the cost of other celeb-loved formulas. Keep scrolling to see the exact sunscreen she loves.

Anua Zero-Cast Moisturizing Finish Sunscreen

Jenner, who was recently named Anua's global brand ambassador, uses the Zero-Cast Moisturizing Finish Sunscreen in her summer skincare routine. Before I detail all of the extra skin benefits it offers, I want to start with the most basic and important aspect: sun protection. It delivers broad-spectrum SPF 50 to keep the skin safe from harsh UVA and UVB rays. The chemical sunscreen uses a combo of UV filters, including avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate and octocrylene.

Beyond that, though, it offers myriad benefits. Let's talk about hydration first. Thanks to hyaluronic acid and glycerin, it moisturises the skin for an impressive 72 hours after application. Those ingredients also contribute to the sunscreen's lightweight, watery texture, but more on that in a minute. Meanwhile, niacinamide and panthenol strengthen the skin's natural moisture barrier to keep that hydration locked in and even balance oil production.

The texture is similar to a creamy skin serum. Think lightweight, watery and easily spreadable on the skin. Once it dries down, it's nearly invisible with no greasy residue or white cast, and it layers so well under foundation, concealer, blush and bronzer—no smudging, pilling, or lifting. In fact, P&K Skin Research Center conducted a study to assess its "makeup adhesion." In the study, 100% of people between the ages of 20 and 59 agreed that it provided an invisible finish with zero pore-clogging effects or excess oiliness. Even though it provides a highly glowy finish, you don't have to worry about it exacerbating acne.

Shop 5 More Editor-Approved Anua Skincare Products

Besides my skincare, there isn’t much in my beauty routine that I’m diligent about. I rarely have my nails done, always skip my brow appointments and am proud of myself if I visit the hairdressers for a trim even twice a year. Yet there’s one beauty habit I rarely skip: applying body cream. In the winter months I’m militant about it, slathering on rich body butters and luxurious body oils to rescue my dry legs once they’re released from beneath thick tights and woolly socks at the end of the day. During summer, however, it definitely feels like more of a chore. When the air is thick with humidity, the last thing I want to do when I climb out of the shower is to apply another layer to my already warm skin.

This year, though, I’ve been reminded that it’s almost more crucial to look after summer skin. After weeks of heatwaves, long afternoons spent outdoors, the odd brush with too much sun (despite rigorous sunscreen application) and more mosquito bites than I'd care to count, my skin has been feeling decidedly more reactive than radiant. Even something as simple as sitting on dry grass with the kids or spending a few hours in the garden can leave it feeling itchy, sensitive and in need of a little extra care.

Which is where soothing body creams come into their own. Rather than simply replenishing moisture, the best formulas are designed to calm stressed skin with ingredients like cooling aloe vera, comforting oat and hyaluronic acid to replenish moisture. The result is skin that feels softer, calmer and far more comfortable, without the heaviness that can put you off reaching for body cream in the first place.

Ahead, I've rounded up the soothing body creams I genuinely reach for when my skin needs a little TLC.

The 9 Best Soothing Body Creams

1. Dove Cica + Repair Body Serum

2. Illiyoon Ceramide Ato Concentrate Cream

3. Alpha-H Daily Dose Multivitamin Body Serum

4. CeraVe Intensive Moisturising Cream

5. Q+A Magnesium Body Butter

6. Gun Ana Body Repair Serum

7. Aveeno Daily Moisturising Calming Relief Lotion

8. Byoma Body Sensitive Skin Body Lotion

9. Pai Gentle Genius Barrier Care Soothing Body Cream

How We Tested

I'm a bit of a hoarder of bodycare products, and have frankly tried hundreds of lotions, butters, serums and oils in my years working as a beauty editor. For this list, I included some reliable favourites as well as testing a hoard of new formulas on my dehydrated, irritable, summer skin. The ones that made the cut were soothing, non-sticky and calmed my limbs in the height of a London heatwave—a true seal of approval.

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products over the years—spanning skincare, makeup, hair and nails—and work closely with trusted experts including dermatologists, makeup artists and leading industry insiders to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

It has been hot this summer. But you don't need me to tell you that. I'm currently writing this story with two fans directed at me and my Shark Depuffi stationed on my desk for some cooling cryo breaks. And I'm not sure about you, but as soon as summer heatwaves begin, my beauty routine gets a serious shake-up. This shake-up tends to happen subconsciously, and I don't realise just how different my daily routine has become until I sit down and look at my empty beauty products at the end of the month.

July was a clear example of this. Whereas my Empties Edits usually comprise a healthy mix of makeup, skincare, haircare, perfumes and candles, this month, every single empty is somehow related to the intense heat we've been experiencing. I've been getting through body creams like there's no tomorrow, making sure my shower gels are working overtime with the three showers I've been having every day and prioritising decongesting cleansers to tackle sweat build-up.

And with over a decade of beauty editor experience under my belt, I test hundreds, if not thousands, of products every single year, so I can assure you that only the best of the best make it into my routine and get used to the very last drop. These eight beauty products have been so game-changing over the past month, in fact, that I'm ready to repurchase every single one immediately. Introducing The Empties Edit for July 2026.

1. Tatcha The Rice Wash

2. Diptyque Rhubarbe Candle

3. Victoria Beckham Beauty FeatherFix Brow Gel

4. Cowshed Active Bath & Shower Gel

5. Jones Road Body Lotion

6. Beauty Pie Healthy Hydration Perfect Moisture Conditioner

7. Byredo Blanche Body Lotion

8. Sunday Riley Detox Darling Microbiome Balancing Toner + Essence

If there's one thing I prioritise over anything else when doing my makeup, it's quick and easy products that deliver a natural-looking result. However, one thing I've struggled with is eyebrow pencils. I'm a "no-makeup" makeup gal through and through, so I find myself reaching for tinted moisturisers, multi-use makeup sticks, glossy lip balms and more. I can do most of my routine in five minutes tops, but my eyebrows always take me the longest.

The thing is, I want them to look fluffy and full, but I also want them to look as if they've got no product in at all, you know? Therefore, I find myself sitting in front of my mirror, attempting to create the finest hair-like strokes, and before I know it, ten minutes have gone by. Well, that was the case until I discovered a small edit of natural-looking brow gels that have completely changed my life. Okay, maybe that's me being dramatic, but they have changed my entire makeup routine.

The thing about these gels is that they deliver the perfect amount of shape and fluffiness while remaining completely undetectable. They're the ultimate "your brows but better" product, and have tricked countless friends and family into thinking that I'm blessed with the best brows in the game. (Trust me, I'm really not). Below, I've rounded up my tried-and-tested edit of the best natural-looking brow gels on the market, so keep on scrolling to shop.

The Best Natural-Looking Brow Gels, Tried & Tested

• Best Overall: Glossier Boy Brow, £22
• Best for a Sculpted Finish: Vieve Modern Brow Gel, £23
• Best Tinted Brow Gel: Rare Beauty Brow Harmony Flexible Lifting Gel, £19
• Best for Lift: Refy Brow Sculpt, £20
• Best for Volume: Merit Brow 1980, £21

1. Glossier Boy Brow

First up, an absolute classic. Glossier Boy Brow is definitely one of the most popular brow gels out there, and for good reason. The tiny brush makes it easy to catch every single hair, and the formula provides a natural, fluffy, flexible finish, meaning your brows look subtly defined, rather than super bold. Plus, there are seven shades available depending on whether you prefer a tinted or clear version. I've repurchased it for years, and don't plan on stopping anytime soon.

2. Vieve Modern Brow Gel

This is one of my favourite beauty launches of the entire year, and that's saying a lot. This brow gel is incredible at delivering a naturally sculpted finish; it dries down completely clear, and it lasts all day. In fact, one night I fell asleep with my makeup on (not recommended), and I woke up to my brows still perfectly in place. It won't add any major lift or fluffiness, but it will make your natural brows look so polished.

3. Rare Beauty Brow Harmony Flexible Lifting Gel

If you want a brow gel that delivers lift, shape and a tint to your brows, then look no further. Similar to Glossier's Boy Brow, this product has a teeny, tiny brush that coats every single hair. I've found it hard in the past to find a tinted brow gel that still delivers a natural-looking finish, but thanks to the lightweight formula, this does exactly that.

4. Refy Brow Sculpt

Refy's brow gel has been advertised as a statement gel that delivers a laminated brow look at home. However, I actually think this product is incredibly versatile. Yes, you can build it up to create a super statement finish, but just one coat creates a more natural, lifted look that stays in place for hours. I'd definitely recommend starting with a small amount and seeing how you get on, but if you like a naturally laminated look, I don't think you can go wrong with this.

5. Merit Brow 1980

If soft, fluffy brows are your goal, you need to know about this Merit brow gel. Delivering just the right amount of volume, it gives brows that effortlessly cool finish whilst looking as if you've barely touched them. It's not as good at holding them in place as others in this roundup, but I personally love the flexibility that it gives.

6. Dior Diorshow On Set Brow

Last but not least, this beauty from Dior. Adding subtle volume and a natural-looking tint to the brows, it's a product I find myself reaching for almost daily. It's just one of those things that you can swipe on and go, knowing your brows are in the very best hands. Plus, it feels super lightweight but delivers impressive hold.

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

If there is a skin tool that's dominated the past few years, it's undoubtedly LED masks. As a beauty editor, it's one of the topics I'm most asked about. And in my decade of working as a beauty journalist and trialling products for a living, I've now tested dozens of LED masks for my job, reviewing the best ones for months at a time to see if they really work. Most of these LED devices come at a significant investment (most are upwards of £300), but not as much as the Dermalux Flex MD LED Light Therapy Device, which comes in just shy of £2,000. It claims to be the world's most powerful LED mask and is what you'll often find in clinics; however, it's also available for home purchase.

For that reason, I've decided to put this LED therapy device to the test and find out if this incredibly expensive piece of equipment is really worth the money for myself. Scroll on for what you need to know, my honest thoughts and the before-and-after pictures of my results.

Dermalux Flex MD LED Light Therapy Device

How Does It Work?

The Dermalux Flex MD LED Light Therapy Device is about as close as you can get to a professional LED therapy treatment at home, and that's exactly what contributes to its premium price tag. It's the same device used by many skin and aesthetics professionals in clinics to treat a wide range of concerns, from acne, eczema and psoriasis to collagen stimulation, on both the face and body. It can also help with joint and muscle pain, as well as wound healing, making it an incredibly versatile piece of equipment. The LEDs sit on a flexible panel that can be detached from the base, allowing you to use it across both the face and body. This is particularly handy if you experience skin concerns elsewhere on the body, as you can simply position the panel over the affected area.

How to Use It

The device comes with a selection of different light treatments—enough to customise your routine without feeling overwhelming—which can be mixed and matched via the intuitive control panel. Simply select your chosen LED setting(s), put on the included safety goggles and press start. From there, all that's left to do is lie back and relax while the device gets to work. Even with the goggles on, the light feels incredibly bright at first, which takes a little getting used to, but I found the treatment surprisingly soothing. It's warming and feels like lying in the sun, minus the UV damage and with all the skin-rejuvenating benefits of LED therapy.

There's also a helpful booklet explaining which light combinations work best for different skin concerns. One thing worth mentioning is that the near-infrared setting appears almost invisible in daylight. Rest assured, the light is there—it just isn't visible to the naked eye, and I found it particularly effective for reducing inflammation.

One of my favourite things about the Flex MD is its versatility. The flexible LED panel can be removed from the base, which makes it easy to use on both the face and body, while the ability to customise treatments means you can target one specific concern or combine wavelengths to tackle several at once. Great if, like me, you want to target a few different things at once.

My Experience

I've been using this LED device over the past five weeks, however, it's actually my second time testing it after I first road-tested it four years ago. My skin concerns largely remain the same as before (hormonal acne, uneven skin texture); however, I'm now dealing with rosacea, pigmentation and early signs of fine lines and skin laxity. I was previously impressed with the results when I was first loaned the device, but I was curious to see how it worked again on my newer concerns now that I'm in my early thirties.

I used the LED device three or four times per week for the full 30 minutes, and I used all three wavelengths combined together: red, blue and infrared (you can use them individually too, but for the sake of testing, I went all in to address my many skin concerns). Red helps stimulate collagen production and improve pigmentation; blue targets acne, while infrared works to calm inflammation and support healing. Immediately after the 30-minute session, I didn't notice a dramatic transformation, of course, but my skin looked a little glowier and noticeably less inflamed the following day. I've previously used the device on my hands during an eczema flare-up, and over the following days the irritation visibly settled. The more impressive results, however, came with consistent use over the following weeks.

By the one-month mark, I noticed my sun-induced pigmentation was fading, and my skin looked healthier and more radiant overall. The improvements were subtle rather than dramatic, but they were definitely noticeable when I looked in the mirror. By the final day of testing, some hormonal acne had appeared on my chin. No device is going to completely cure or prevent skin conditions, but I do think this helped with the management. Breakouts and redness stayed largely under control throughout the trial, and when blemishes did appear, they cleared much faster than they normally would. Overall, my skin has been better-behaved since adding it into my routine.

My skin also possesses more of an all-round healthy glow, looks more even in tone and less red. I've kept my skincare routine largely the same since using this, so I can vouch that this LED device really does work. I'm in between Botox treatments, with my last one having fully worn off, so I was pleased to see that fine lines I'm beginning to see around my eyes and forehead also look softened. Additionally, I found these treatments to be so relaxing, and it became a part of my bedtime routine that also benefited my sleep quality (maybe it's coincidental, but my Oura Ring ratings were always better on the nights I used it).

Before and After

Before

After

My Verdict

I hate to say it, but this LED device really does deliver on the results, which makes the price even more painful, as I wish I could afford it myself! My only real criticism (aside from that price tag) is the size. As it's designed for professional clinic use, it's understandably much larger than the wearable LED masks I tested. That's not necessarily a downside, but it did take up a fair amount of space in my flat. Because I was using it so regularly, it was far easier to leave it assembled than pack it away after every session.

If I had to be particularly picky, I'd also say the 30-minute treatment time can be difficult to fit into a busy routine. Unlike wearable LED masks that you can potter around in for 10 minutes, you can't get on with other tasks while using this one, and wearing the safety goggles is essential, so you can't multitask or watch a TV show. That said, it's a great excuse to switch off, lie back and catch up on a podcast instead.

Of course, it's impossible to overlook that this is a seriously expensive piece of equipment, and it also can't replace your skincare routine. This sample is on loan to me for the review, and I don't have a spare £2k to drop on an LED device. However, if you regularly invest in professional LED treatments in-clinic, and want to enjoy similar benefits at home that are more powerful than your typical LED masks, then it could well prove worthwhile. The option to use this on the face and body means you could also save from having to purchase separate LED panels, LED hand masks or other LED devices that target different areas of the body, such as the neck, which could easily add up to over £1000.

So if you can look past the eye-watering price, and have the money to splash out, then I'd say this device is a worthwhile investment. It's one of the closest at-home alternatives to an in-clinic LED treatment currently available, and in my experience, it delivers results that justify its reputation.

Shop Now:

How I Tested

This is my second time using the Dermalux Flex MD LED Light Therapy Device, and for my second time trialling it, I tested it three to four times per week for 30 minutes over the course of five weeks whilst the device was on loan to me. I used all of the LED settings to evaluate how well the device worked and took before-and-after photos to monitor my results. I also kept my skincare routine unchanged to ensure any results from the LED could be seen.

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including some skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

There's been a noticeable movement in nail trends (and pedicure trends, for that matter) in recent years. Off the back of quiet luxury and stealth wealth, the sheer pinks, milky shades and understated chromes have been the dominating shades we've collectively been wearing. In fact, in some cases we've been shunning any nail polish at all, with bare nails also making a resurgence.

And whilst I do love a timeless nail colour trend, this summer, I've noticed brighter pedicure colours slowly making a comeback on the pedicured feet of celebrities after years of pared-back neutrals. And Hailey Bieber just stepped out with the most refreshing pedicure colour I've seen in ages. And it's the perfect shade for summer.

Hailey Bieber's Blue Pedicure

I can't remember the last time I saw a bright pedicure colour on Hailey, and this azure blue is quite possibly the summeriest shade to grace her toes. In fact, she's also gone for the same shade for her manicure, too.

Thankfully, her manicurist, Zola Ganzorigt, shared the exact blue shade she used on Hailey's hands and feet, and it's an on-sale OPI nail colour that I'm immediately adding to my basket. She used OPI Nail Polish in Blue Them All Away (was £8, now £6), and it's the prettiest blue shade to go for your next mani-pedi. Scroll on to shop the shade, as well as the other blue nail colours I love.

Shop Blue Polishes:

I'm a big fan of a fragrance wardrobe. I like to switch up my scent depending on how I'm feeling, and love getting ready and choosing between my selection of the best perfumes. Some days I reach for a gourmand fragrance, whereas other days I like a musky, woody scent. However, whether I'm happy or sad, whether it's sunny or raining, or whether I'm dressing up or staying in sweats, there's one fragrance note I gravitate towards more than anything else, and that's orange.

As you'll see in my roundup of the best orange perfumes below, this note is incredibly versatile. Of course, it's as zesty as you'd expect, but depending on its complementary notes, it can take on a manner of qualities. Having said that, after testing hundreds of citrus scents over the years, one thing I've learnt is that all orange perfumes possess an It-girl quality that brings in compliments like no other.

But before getting into all that, I consulted a fragrance expert to learn more about one of my go-to scents.

What Do Orange Perfumes Smell Like?

"Orange can be interpreted in so many different ways, which is why we love working with it," says Chriselle Lim, founder of cool-girl fragrance brand Phlur. "Mandarin feels juicy and vibrant while orange blossom is softer and more floral. Depending on what you pair it with, it can feel fresh and sparkling or warm and sensual."

Why Are Orange Perfumes Popular?

So, why do I find myself gravitating towards this scent? "I think people are craving fragrances that instantly lift their mood, and orange does that quite effortlessly," explains Lim. "It feels bright, optimistic and joyful without being overly sweet."

Can Orange Perfumes Work All Year Round?

Whilst many people might assume orange works best in the summer months, this note is incredibly versatile. "In summer, orange feels bright, juicy and refreshing, but when you pair it with woods, vanilla or amber, it suddenly feels cosy enough for autumn and winter too," says Lim.

If, after hearing all that, you're keen to try an orange perfume for yourself, keep on scrolling for my top picks that all give It-girl energy.

The Best Orange Perfumes, Tried & Tested

• Best Overall: Beauty Pie Orange Absolute Intense, £35
• Best Evening Scent: Phlur Golden Rule, £99
• Best Daytime Scent: Acqua Di Parma Colonia Il Profumo, £146
• Best New Perfume: Dior Paradise, £175
• Best Luxury Perfume: Tom Ford Taormina Orange, £220

1. Beauty Pie Orange Absolute Intense

2. Phlur Golden Rule

3. Acqua Di Parma Colonia Il Profumo

4. Dior Paradise

5. Tom Ford Taormina Orange

6. Maison Francis Kurkdjian Kurky

7. New Notes Akigala Mandarino

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including some skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

As a beauty editor and a beauty lover, I love the self-expression that makeup can bring. And every makeup brand has its own specific identity and signature. When I want to feel polished and luxe, I reach for Victoria Beckham Beauty. When I only have five minutes to get out the door, it's Merit Beauty with its effortless formulas that I can swipe on and go. But my most-loved makeup brands all have one common thread. They have to be luxurious, deliver a "no-makeup" makeup look effortlessly, and, crucially, be easy to use. And a makeup brand that delivers on all fronts is Fara Homidi.

Homidi is a top makeup artist renowned for her minimalistic approach to beauty, who has worked with just about every major publication, fashion house and model you can think of. You only have to glance at her recent Loewe campaign makeup to understand her aesthetic. The skin is pared-back and minimal, and has hints of blush and dewiness in all the right places that make it look totally natural and not overly perfected.

However, she's also an artist with her use of colour, and has made painterly dewy blue eyeshadow another of her signatures. It's minimalistic, but it's also a makeup brand that knows how to have fun, with creamy textures that you can apply with your fingertips and that move with you throughout the day and night. Below, I'm sharing the products that deserve a spot in your makeup bag next.

Best Fara Homidi Products

1. Essential Eye Compact

If you only try one Fara Homidi product, make it one of the Essential Eye Compacts. These sleek compacts house three cream eyeshadows, designed to be used alone or worn together, and they leave you with a glossy, lived-in eye look. You know how a smoky eye often looks better a few hours later? This creates the effect instantly. These aren't cream shadows that dry down. Instead, they remain glossy on the lids. It does mean that they crease, but it's all part of the look in creating a lived-in, smudgy eyeshadow look. I've been using the Trio No. 20, which has a trio of wearable neutrals, but I'm also taken to Trio No.61, which has a stunning blue eyeshadow that is the most perfect '90s-inspired shade, and can be worn sheer or dialled up to full electric blue.

2. Essential Blonzer Compact

Part blusher, part bronzer, this blonzer gives you a flushed, just-been-in-the-sun glow with just one product. I think this is one of the most natural-looking powder blonzers I've tried, and the Nue shade gives my skin a pink tone that captures exactly how my skin would catch the sun. I like to swipe it on my cheeks, and a little on my nose, top of my forehead and a touch on my chin, and it really makes me feel sunkissed and outdoorsy in mere seconds. What makes it so natural-looking is the radiant matte texture, which doesn't have any shimmer but has a subtle radiance that mimics the natural radiance of your skin. I adore it.

3. Essential Face Compact

This dual-complexion compact is such a great one to throw in your bag that it negates the need for carrying foundation, concealer or highlighter in your makeup bag—this does it all (and it has a mirror!). It contains the Smooth Veil Soft Matte formula, a foundation-concealer hybrid that does the job of both, and the Shine Baume, which delivers dewy, glossy skin and looks stunning tapped onto the cheekbones. The creamy concealer melts into the skin for a radiant matte finish, disguising redness and blemishes in just the areas that need it with medium coverage, whilst the highlighter allows you to create dimension in your skin and tailor the glow you prefer. A total hard-worker for your makeup bag, and like the rest of the compacts, it's refillable too, should you need to top up or change shades during the changing seasons.

4. Shader Brush

If you need a sign to update your makeup brushes, then let it be this. It's a smart move to invest in makeup brushes created by a makeup artist themself, and these brushes are both beautiful in looks and in quality. This nimble shader brush is created in Japan (a country that produces the best brushes), and is perfect for buffing bronzer, blusher or bronzer into a seamless, natural finish. The tapered finish is great for precise placement, whilst the fluffy bristles blend your products perfectly. It may be an investment, but it's one that's worthwhile.

5. Essential Bronzer Compact

6. Essential Lip Compact

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including some skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

I'm always on the hunt for chic, minimal and stylish nail trends to wear throughout summer. The thing is, I don't want something boring. I know, I know—how exciting can a minimal manicure be? I guess what I mean is that I want something a little different from your usual clear nail polish or French tip manicure that still fits my understated aesthetic.

For a long time, I've favourited the milky nail trend over anything else, but after coming across "sorbet nails", I think I've found a new fave.

Sorbet Nails

Spotted on nail artist Mateja Novakovic, this sorbet manicure features a glossy, bright pink tint that makes your nails look healthy and vibrant. That being said, the sheer, sorbet-like finish keeps things natural and elegant, perfect if you prefer an everyday manicure that won't look out of place when paired with your neutral wardrobe.

Whilst Novakovic keeps things short and simple with her rounded nail shape, I also think this trend would look incredible paired with long, almond-shaped nails, too.

To get the look, Novakovic used two layers of Manucurist's nail polish in Pink Sorbet. Described as a translucent pink with cool blue undertones, you can apply a single coat or layer the polish depending on your desired finish. No matter what you decide, there's no denying how chic this looks for the summer season.

Shop the Trend:

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including some skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

If there's an unsung hero of my makeup routine, it's highlighter. However, if I'm being totally honest, it's taken me a long time to welcome highlighter into my routine. Growing up, the only highlighter options were the pressed powder variety, which were always way too full of glitter and shimmer for me to get on board with. Which is why I've welcomed in glowy highlighter sticks with open arms, ever since makeup artists introduced me to these magical formulas that deliver goddess-level glow.

Rather than being glitzy, these creamy formulas impart a dewy glow to your skin. It's more natural-looking, easier to swipe on and pat with your fingertips for precise placement and makes your complexion look like you stepped out from an expensive facial. After all, there's only so much glow that can be achieved in your skincare routine, from a glowy moisturiser or serum, and these highlighter sticks are the easiest way to dial up your radiance in one swipe in the exact places you require it.

After all, glowy highlighter sticks are not only for your cheeks. They can also be swiped onto the browbone for an ethereal accent, on the lids for a glossy lid or even on the décolletage or shins when your outfit calls for a little body radiance without the stickiness of a shimmery body oil. You can even mix them with your blusher, or tap onto your lips. TLDR; a glowy highlighter stick can be one of the hardest-working products in your makeup bag.

Having seen just about every celebrity step out on the red carpet with dewy, glossy cheekbones, I thought it was high time that I shared my favourite glowy highlighter sticks that recreate that glassy glow. Scroll on for the ones that permanently live in my makeup bag.

Best Glowy Highlighter Sticks

• Best Overall: Westman Atelier Lit Up Highlight Stick
• Best Shimmer Highlighter: Victoria Beckham Beauty Reflect Highlighter Stick
• Best Luxury Highlighter Stick: Chanel Baume Essentiel Multi-Use Glow Stick
• Best Glowy SPF Stick: Givenchy Skin Perfecto Stick UV SPF 50 PA++++ Protector

1. Westman Atelier Lit Up Highlight Stick Lit Up

I've not met a Westman Atelier product I don't love, but this highlighter stick is never out of my permanent rotation. This dewy stick imparts a glossy glow upon your cheekbones that's never sticky; instead, it makes your complexion look like you just stepped out from a facial. It comes in a completely transparent option if you don't want any shimmer or colour; however, don't overlook the tinted shades, which have the slightest hint of glimmer (read: not glittery). I love the pink-gold tones of Nectar, which I'm using a lot during summer.

2. Victoria Beckham Beauty Reflect Highlighter Stick

Victoria Beckham Beauty's Reflect Highlighter Stick is another favourite, and just look at that vintage-inspired gilded packaging. Aesthetics aside, this highlighter stick provides a glossy glow to your cheeks, but with a pearly, satin-like finish that strikes the balance of looking dewy but not glitzy. I have the shade Pearl, which delivers a sheer luminous glow, whereas Amber has a golden undertone that complements deeper skin tones and leaves light complexions looking bronzed. If you want a dewy highlighter stick and don't mind a slight hint of pearly colour, this is the one to go for.

3. Chanel Baume Essential Multi-Use Glow Stick

Chanel was one of the first to innovate with a sheer, glossy highlighter stick when everyone else was creating glitzy powder highlighters, so for that reason I'll always consider this product iconic. It's beloved by makeup artists and editors alike (including myself), and is often out of stock as it's just that good. It comes in a totally transparent shade for those who want a glassy cheek, but you'll also find it in sheer tinted colourways if you want a hint of colour. My favourite is Sculpting, which has the slightest hint of pear shimmer that illuminates the skin with an expensive-looking sheen.

4. Dior Backstage Glassy Glow Stick

5. Merit Beauty Day Glow

Oh Merit Beauty, there is nothing you can do wrong. Whilst a lot of dewy highlighter sticks have a glossy, wet-look slip to their textures, this one has a grippier, balmy texture that means your hair won't get stuck in it, but it also makes for a longer-lasting glow without compromising on glow. The shades are brilliant, also, spanning bronze and gold through to champagne and rose gold. They have more pearl to them than other transparent highlighters, but the result isn't glitzy. Instead, it bestows a halo-esque glow wherever you choose to swipe it.

6. Charlotte Tilbury Unreal Highlighter Glazed Goddess

7.  Givenchy Skin Perfecto Stick UV SPF 50 PA++++ Protector

How We Tested

As a beauty editor, I've spent years testing the best highlighter sticks. From new launches to makeup artist recommendations, I've been able to test some of the best highlighters that come in stick form. I've been able to decipher the highlighter sticks that are truly transparent and deliver a dewy look, alongside the tinted and shimmer varieties that add a touch of colour to your cheeks. Most of the highlighter sticks I've tested are everyday favourites in my makeup bag that I've used for years.

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including some skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

If there's one person I am dying to interview as a beauty editor, it's Nina Park. The makeup artist has painted some of the most famous faces in the industry, including Zoë Kravitz, Kaia Gerber, Sadie Sink and Emma Stone. Whilst each makeup look is perfection, there's one particular part that has people talking more than anything else. Lipstick.

The "Nina Park Lip" has become an icon in its own right, and if you follow the makeup artist on Instagram, you'll know why. Park has somehow created the most sought-after, neutral, diffused lip look, and we're all desperate to know exactly how she does it. (And more importantly, what lip liner she uses).

As it turns out, her latest glowy makeup look (on none other than Sadie Sink) involved my favourite nude lip liner of all time. Yes, it seems as if I've been doing the "Nina Park Lip" all along, and I have to say, I'm feeling pretty smug about it.

Sink was spotted getting ready for the Spider-Man: Brand New Day premiere, wearing a full face of Guerlain makeup. Park created the most gorgeous, terracotta-toned look, and on the lips, she used Guerlain's Contour G Lip Pencil in the shade 02 Le Beige Praline.

Park could be seen applying the liner slightly below the natural lip line to create a fuller effect, before finishing things off with the Guerlain Rouge G lipstick in the shade 234 L’Orange Sienne. The result? A plump, diffused, neutral-toned lip that would look just as good at the office as it would on the red carpet.

Considering how many people are desperate to recreate the "Nina Park Lip", I have a feeling that this lip liner is about to become the next big thing. I plan on stocking up before it sells out...

Shop the Guerlain Contour G Lip Pencil

Shop More of Nina Park's Favourite Lip Liners

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including some skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

For summer especially, few beauty looks feel as effortlessly appealing as beachy hair. It's the kind of colour that looks expensive without appearing overly "done". It's soft and dimensional, as though you've spent weeks by the sea rather than hours in the salon chair. While many of us associate beachy hair with California blondes and sun-bleached highlights, the summer hair colour trend has evolved far beyond that. Today, it's less about becoming dramatically lighter and more about creating natural-looking depth and movement, regardless of your starting shade.

Whether you're a brunette looking to add caramel ribbons or a blonde wanting brighter, buttery ends, the secret lies in strategic placement and seamless blending. Rather than obvious highlights or stark contrast, beachy hair colours mimic the way the sun naturally lightens hair over time, leaving the lengths looking brighter while maintaining depth at the roots.

The result is a colour that grows out beautifully, requires relatively little maintenance and brings instant warmth and radiance to the complexion. Better yet, it's one of the most universally flattering colour trends, as it can be tailored to suit every hair colour, skin tone and hair texture. Ahead, we've rounded up the most beautiful beachy hair colour ideas to take to your next salon appointment.

What to Ask for in the Salon

According to celebrity hairstylist Melissa Timperley, achieving a beachy hair colour starts with asking for a soft, lived-in finish rather than anything too uniform or high-contrast. "A beachy hair colour is all about creating the effect of hair that's naturally been lightened by the sun," she explains. "Whether you're brunette, blonde or copper, ask for a soft, lived-in colour with a slightly deeper root and lighter pieces around the hairline to brighten and contour the face." She also recommends adding a few lighter pieces underneath at the nape so the colour still catches the light when your hair is tied up. Depending on your desired finish, your colourist can create the look using either traditional foils or balayage.

Beachy Hair-Colour Ideas

1. Beachy Blonde Bob

A softly tousled bob paired with warm blonde tones and a subtle shadow root proves that beachy hair isn't reserved for long lengths. The textured finish enhances the effortless, just-back-from-the-beach effect.

2. Blonde Balayage

A seamless blonde balayage with deeper roots melting into bright, buttery ends is the blueprint for expensive-looking beachy hair. The soft gradient creates plenty of dimension while remaining beautifully low maintenance.

3. Honey Blonde Highlights

Honey blonde is one of the easiest ways to achieve a sunkissed finish without going overly light. Warm golden highlights woven throughout your hair will add softness, shine and natural-looking dimension.

4. Light Brunette Ribbons

Soft blonde ribbons woven through a light brunette base recreate the way hair naturally lightens after time in the sun. The result feels understated, glossy, and effortlessly wearable.

5. Lived-In Beach Blonde

Brighter blonde pieces through the lengths paired with a softer, lived-in root create a colour that feels relaxed rather than freshly highlighted. Loose waves help showcase every dimension for an effortlessly beachy finish.

6. Long Beach Blonde

Ultra-long blonde hair feels instantly more effortless when paired with soft waves and a slightly undone finish. The bright, sun-bleached colour is balanced by natural texture, giving it a laid-back beach aesthetic rather than an overly polished one.

7. Sunkissed Braids

Adding blonde highlights through braids creates beautiful contrast and dimension. The lighter strands catch the light, giving the style a naturally sunkissed effect for your protective hairstyle.

8. Face-Framing Blonde

If you don't want an all-over colour refresh, face-framing blonde pieces offer an easy way to recreate the effect of naturally lightened hair. They instantly brighten the complexion while leaving the rest of the brunette base natural.

9. Curly Brunette Bob

Soft caramel and light brown highlights bring movement and depth to a curly brunette bob without overpowering the natural base colour. Subtle placement will create a gentle sunlit effect throughout your curls.

10. Cool Platinum Waves

Beachy hair doesn't always have to lean golden—cool platinum can feel equally effortless when paired with soft, tousled waves. Textured styling keeps icy blonde looking relaxed rather than high maintenance.

11. Sunkissed Curls

Strategically placed lighter curls over a deeper base create the illusion of hair that's naturally brightened by the sun. It's a beautiful way to add dimension and definition while maintaining the richness of your natural colour.

12. Dark Roots & Blonde Lengths

Keeping the roots naturally dark while brightening the mid-lengths and ends creates a striking contrast that still feels effortless. The graduated colour mimics months of sun exposure whilst offering an easy grow-out.

13. Brunette Balayage Curls

Blonde balayage woven through brunette curls enhances every twist, making the texture appear even more defined. The soft placement creates a natural, sun-kissed finish that looks beautifully multidimensional.

Shop Beachy Hair Colour Products:

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

Ling Choi is a Ritual & Experience Designer creating meaningful moments of connection for brands, hospitality spaces and communities. Drawing on ritual, storytelling and astrology, she helps transform everyday experiences and life’s milestones into moments people genuinely remember.

I have to admit, I didn’t get into the world of astrology, star signs and horoscopes until very recently, much to the chagrin of my fellow editors. But after many a long chat in the office (and realising that I have all of the personality traits of a true Virgo), I’m now an astrology convert. And of course, as someone who works in beauty, I’ve spent the last few weeks wondering how the two niches interact with each other.

The answer? It mostly lies in nail trends.

Now we all know the nail designs you choose can be a huge confidence booster, and that they can very easily make or break your mood. So with this in mind, I decided to reach out to an expert to find out my horoscope, the energy I should be channelling for the upcoming season, as well as the nail design I should take to my next salon visit to do this. And the best part? She didn’t just do one for fellow Virgos; in fact, below, there’s a horoscope and nail design tailored to each star sign.

So if you too are curious about the energy you should be channelling for the season ahead, or are simply looking for some very chic nail design inspo to take with you to the salon, keep scrolling to discover what professional Ling Choi has in store.

About Your Horoscope

Ling Choi says, "Astrology is more than a tool for understanding personality—it also offers beautiful insights into how we express ourselves.

While your Sun sign reflects your essence, your Rising Sign is your avatar in this world; your Venus sign reveals your relationship with beauty, pleasure and love–what naturally attracts and enhances you—from colours and textures to the way you express beauty and romance. Think of it as your personal beauty muse. If you have ever wondered why your horoscope does not quite match your fashion choices, check your Venus sign—you might discover a version of your style that feels even more like home.

For more personalised beauty rituals, read your Rising and Sun signs first, then check your Venus sign."

Keep scrolling to discover which nail design you should choose at the your next salon visit, according to your horoscope.

Aries (March 21 – April 19)

Channel: Courage with intention

Horoscope: Aries, you are brave and are happiest when moving forward. Fiery reds, coral or metallic accents will suit your bold spirit, symbolising your confidence to take the first step. In between actions, let your manicure become a small reminder to pause and move with intention.

Opt for: Fiery reds, coral or metallic accents.

Taurus (April 20 – May 20)

Channel: Sensuality

Horoscope: Ruled by Venus, Tauruses find beauty through the senses. Luxury lives in the details. Think creamy neutrals, pistachio or soft sage. Choose textures and colours that make you slow down and truly enjoy getting ready, like a ritual. Beauty is never just visual. It is an experience. Next time, look for salons that are restorative; enjoy the hand massage, linger over a cup of tea. Let your appointment become a mini-retreat.

Opt for: Creamy neutrals, pistachio or soft sage

Gemini (May 21 – June 20)

Channel: Curiosity

Horoscope: Geminis, the inquisitive mind, are not meant to wear one look forever. Trends are playgrounds for you. As Gemini rules hands and fingers. Mismatched designs, unexpected colour combinations or funky details are all extensions of your playfulness. Beauty should not feel like routine. It is a conversation. What are you curious about now?

Opt for: Mismatched designs, unexpected colour combinations and funky details

Cancer (June 21 – July 22)

Channel: Self-nurturing

Horoscope: Cancers are loving and naturally pour love into everyone. Soft, powdery colours, pearl finishes and floral design create a sense of comfort and ease. Let your beauty ritual become a quiet moment of nurturing to check in with your emotional world. Instead of asking what is fashionable, ask yourself what colours feel comforting today.

Opt for: Soft, powdery colours, pearl finishes and floral designs

Leo (July 23 – August 22)

Channel: Radiance

Horoscope: Leos, you shine brightest when expressing your authentic self. Gold details, warm amber, sunset hues and glossy finishes reflect your natural radiance—not to seek attention, but to celebrate who you already are. Choose something that makes you smile every time you see it. Your beauty is not only about being seen by everyone else—it is about remembering your own light.

Opt for: Gold details, warm amber, sunset hues and glossy finishes

Virgo (August 23 – September 22)

Channel: Grace over perfection

Horoscope: Virgos have an eye for detail. Believing in less is more, elegant simplicity is your statement. That is why you opt for clean lines, oat, muted colours and classic French manicures. Beauty is not found in flawlessness. Leave room for small surprises. If you always choose timeless neutrals, consider adding new details–a subtle shimmer or a delicate accent.

Opt for: Adding a subtle shimmer or a delicate accent to classic designs

Libra (September 23 – October 22)

Channel: Harmony

Horoscope: Ruled by Venus, Libras naturally appreciate beauty and balance. Blush tones, rose, lilac or balanced, soft ombré designs create a sense of harmony before anyone compliments your nails! Choose a design you would be in love with, not just one that everyone is wearing today.

Opt for: Blush tones, rose, lilac or balanced and soft ombré designs

Scorpio (October 23 – November 21)

Channel: Depth

Horoscope: Scorpios understand the power of subtlety. Deep cherry, espresso, oxblood or smoky plum create presence without demanding attention. They unfold over time. You do not need your manicure to make the loudest statement–it simply needs to feel like you. Choose colours and designs that mirror your quiet magnetism. Make it your ritual, just for you.

Opt for: Deep brown, espresso, oxblood and smoky plum

Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21)

Channel: Adventure

Horoscope: Sagittarius, the free spirits, come alive through exploration. If you cannot travel today, let your nails be your everyday life ritual and take you somewhere. Be playful–besides your purple or blue colours–choose colours and patterns inspired by a favourite destination, a sunset you have seen or a place you are dreaming of visiting.

Opt for: Colours and patterns inspired by a favourite destination, a sunset or dream holiday

Capricorn (December 22 – January 19)

Channel: Quiet confidence

Horoscope: Capricorns and mountain goats are famous for their dedication and patience, and your style reflects it. Classic is not boring. It is timeless elegance–chocolate brown, charcoal and sophisticated neutrals reflect quiet confidence that never needs to prove itself. Remember, pamper yourself from time to time with beauty treatments because you deserve it—you do not need to earn to receive.

Opt for: Chocolate brown, charcoal and sophisticated neutrals

Aquarius (January 20 – February 18)

Channel: Originality

Horoscope: Aquarians are never meant to blend in. From ethical brands to like-minded communities, your style is your manifesto, your vision. Besides sky blue, electric colours, and unique graphics, what statement would you like to communicate through your nail art? Express yourself before asking whether other people will understand.

Opt for: A statement you'd like to communicate

Pisces (February 19 – March 20)

Channel: Imagination

Horoscope: Pisces lives close to beauty, dreams and intuition. Sea-inspired motifs, iridescent finishes, and dreamy watercolour nails capture your imaginative nature. Let beauty be your gentle escape and nails your space for creativity to flow. In this fast-paced world, Pisceans need to give themselves time to daydream without guilt.

Opt for: Sea-inspired motifs, iridescent finishes, and dreamy watercolour nails

How to Get Horoscope Nails At Home

I've long considered a classic French manicure to be the gold standard of chic nail trends, but celebrity manicurist and Who What Wear UK Editor in Residence, Harriet Westmoreland may have just persuaded me to rethink it.

A long-time fan of her work, the nail artist—whose impeccably glossy manicures have become a signature in their own right—has swapped the crisp white tip for something far softer, and I have a feeling it's about to be everywhere.

Enter the milky moon manicure, a glossy, barely-there design that swaps white tips for a delicate crescent at the cuticle, creating one of the chicest nail looks of the season.

Mini Moon Manicure Trend

If you're a French-tip lover but want to switch it up for summer, then this is the trend to bookmark. Rather than focusing on the tips, Westmoreland turns her attention to the cuticle, adding a delicate milky white half-moon that contrasts beautifully against a sheer, rosy base.

Finished with her signature high-shine gloss, the look feels clean, reminiscent of the soap manicure, and the subtle detail instantly elevates an otherwise minimalist manicure.

It's the kind of nail art you could easily miss at first glance, and that's precisely its appeal. As beauty continues to embrace understated elegance, there's been a clear shift towards manicures that celebrate the natural nail rather than cover it up. Think jelly nails, lip gloss nails and milky manicures—all trends that favour healthy-looking shine and barely-there colour over intricate designs.

The milky moon manicure slots perfectly into that aesthetic. Delicate enough for everyday wear but chic enough for weddings and special occasions. Whether worn on short, rounded nails or longer almond shapes, it's proof that sometimes the smallest detail makes the biggest statement.

The Best Products for the Mini Moon Manicure Trend

Anyone who knows me will know that Italy is my favourite place in the entire world. What’s not to love about it? It’s a country I—and my taste buds—could never grow tired of. From the serene beauty of the northern lakes and Dolomites to the ancient charm of Rome, every visit has deepened my appreciation for Italian culture. My next trip is to Florence, and there is one place that's top of my list to visit, and no, it's not a restaurant or a gelato spot. It's Officina Profumo-Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella, one of the world's oldest beauty brands and perfume houses.

When it comes to heritage beauty brands, few rival the legacy of Officina Profumo-Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella. Widely considered the world's oldest pharmacy, it opened in Florence in 1221, when a group of Dominican friars established the convent of Santa Maria Novella and cultivated a botanical garden where the natural ingredients were then used for medicines, ointments and balms. More than 800 years on, the botanical craftsmanship remains today. Its collection has expanded over the centuries to include fragrances, skincare and body care, and both the draw-dropping interiors of the store and every product in the wooden apothecary cabinets are steeped in Florentine history. Its fragrances are amongst some of the oldest in the world, and the brand has even created scents for royalty.

And as a beauty editor, I know that Santa Maria Novella scents are considered amongst some of the best Italian perfumes. These exquisite bottles come housed in tome-like packaging that allows you to enjoy a small piece of the pharmacy at home, and the scents themselves are honestly breathtaking. Thankfully, you don't need a city break to Florence to discover them, as they're easy to find in the UK. I regularly wear some of the brand's most iconic fragrances—these are the ones I've fallen in love with.

Best Santa Maria Novella Perfumes

• Best Overall: Aqua Eau de Parfum
• Best Luxurious Scent: L'Iris Eau de Parfum
• Best Botanical Scent: Necatrium Eau de Cologne
• Best Floral: Rose Gardenia Eau de Cologne
• Best Smoky Scent: Tabacco Toscano Eau de Cologne

1. Acqua

2. L'Iris

3. Nectarium

4. Tabacco Toscano

5. Rose Gardenia

6. Melograno

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including some skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

As an esthetician, one of the questions I'm asked more than almost any other is, "How do I get rid of my pores?" It's an understandable concern—after all, smooth, poreless skin is everywhere on social media—but it's also based on one of the biggest misconceptions in skincare. The truth is, you can't actually get rid of your pores. Pores are tiny openings in the skin that allow sebum (oil) and sweat to reach the surface, helping to keep skin healthy and functioning as it should. Every single person has them, and despite what many products claim, they can't be opened, closed or erased.

With that said, pores can absolutely appear larger or more noticeable. Genetics and lifestyle play a huge role in determining pore size, but excess oil production, congestion, sun damage, and a loss of collagen and elasticity can also make them look more prominent. As dermatologist Sonia Khorana explains, people with oily skin often find that "their pores may be more visible or enlarged," alongside increased shine, blackheads, and breakouts. Excess sebum is largely influenced by hormones and genetics, although stress and environmental factors can also contribute.

Fortunately, while you can't shrink a pore permanently, you can make it appear much less noticeable. Keeping pores clear with ingredients like salicylic acid is one part of the puzzle, but it's far from the only solution. Supporting collagen production with ingredients such as retinoids and peptides can help improve the skin's firmness over time, while well-hydrated skin reflects light more evenly, making pores appear softer and less defined. Pore-minimising toners can be particularly effective because they combine exfoliating, oil-balancing and hydrating ingredients in one easy step, helping skin look smoother and more refined with consistent use.

What to Look for

The best pore-minimising toners don't actually minimise the size of your pores; they minimise the things that make them look more noticeable. Which formula is right for you depends largely on what's causing your pores to stand out in the first place.

If excess oil and congestion are your main concerns, look for salicylic acid (BHA), one of the gold-standard ingredients for oily skin. Because it's oil-soluble, it can penetrate inside the pore to dissolve excess sebum and dead skin cells that stretch pores and lead to blackheads. Khorana recommends salicylic acid for helping to regulate sebum production, alongside niacinamide, zinc and retinoids.

Niacinamide is another excellent ingredient to prioritise. As well as helping to regulate oil production, it supports the skin barrier and can improve overall skin texture, making pores appear less obvious over time. If your skin is oily but also sensitive, gentler exfoliating acids such as lactic acid or mandelic acid can offer similar smoothing benefits with a lower risk of irritation.

Hydration is equally important, even if your skin is oily. "Remember not to be very harsh with your skin as it can disrupt the skin barrier and lead to skin dryness and sensitivity," says Khorana. Ingredients like glycerin, hyaluronic acid, panthenol and ceramides help maintain healthy hydration levels, while supporting the skin barrier. This is particularly important because dehydrated skin can often compensate by producing even more oil, making pores appear more noticeable.

How to Use Pore-Minimising Toners

Pore-minimising toners should be applied after cleansing and before serums and moisturiser. Most formulas are designed to be swept over clean skin using your hands or a cotton pad, although always follow the brand's instructions, as some exfoliating formulas are intended for less frequent use.

One of the biggest mistakes I see people make is overusing exfoliating toners in the hope of seeing faster results. Whilst ingredients like salicylic acid and AHAs can be incredibly effective, using them too often can disrupt the skin barrier, leading to irritation, dehydration and even increased oil production. If you're using an exfoliating toner, start by applying it two to three times a week before gradually increasing if your skin tolerates it well. Hydrating or barrier-supporting toners, on the other hand, can usually be used morning and evening. Whatever formula you choose, consistency—and daily SPF—is what will deliver the best long-term results.

The Best Pore-Minimising Toners

1. Best Overall: PerriconeMD Cold Plasma Plus+ The Essence
2. Best for Oily Skin: Paula's Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant
3. Best for Dry Skin: Ole Henriksen Silkfoliant Daily Tri-Acid Smoothing Toner
4. Best for Stubborn Pores: Skin Rocks The Strong Acid
5. Best Toner Pads: Cosmetic Consult Miracle Skin Transformation

1. PerriconeMD Cold Plasma Plus+ The Essence

2. Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant

3. Ole Henriksen Silkfoliant Daily Tri-Acid Smoothing Toner

4. Skin Rocks The Strong Acid

5. Cosmetic Consult Miracle Skin Transformation

6. Topicals Clearly Clarifying & Calming Mist

7. Shani Darden Skin Care Sake Toning Essence

8. Prequel Multi-Acid Milk Peel AHA Exfoliating Solution

9. Caudalie Vinopure Purifying Toner

10. Naturium BHA Liquid Exfoliant 2%

11. Medicube Zero Pore Exfoliating & Hydrating Toner

How We Tested

To find the best pore-minimising toners, I tested each formula over several weeks, incorporating them into my routine according to the brand’s recommended usage. I assessed how each product performed on visible pores, skin texture, oiliness, hydration and overall smoothness. I also considered ingredient quality, ease of use, value for money and customer feedback to determine which toners delivered the most noticeable results across different skin types and concerns.

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including some skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

Welcome to How to Hair. Think of this series as your go-to guide to achieve your best hair yet. Whether you want to master a certain hair tool, work out how to wear a new hairstyle or if you're just in need of some hair inspiration, our beauty editor Eleanor Vousden is here to talk you through what you need to know, step-by-step, with plenty of insider intel along the way. Allow How to Hair to become your trusted guide on the journey to great hair days—every day.

I consider myself someone who is pretty low-maintenance with their hair. I don't like spending ages with a hair tool when styling my lengths, and so I'm always drawn to low-effort hairstyles that not only look effortless, but are also effortless to create, too. And if you're like me and the rest of the internet, you too have been swooning over Zendaya's The Odyssey press tour hair moments, which have been featuring some stunning Grecian-inspired waves that I've been desperate to re-create. And as we're in the height of summer, now is the perfect time to try "S" waves. I spoke with a top hairstylist to break down exactly how to achieve this low-effort style for summer.

How to Do S Waves

"S waves are a looser, more luxe take on the classic mermaid waves and the perfect style for summer," says hairstylist and GHD ambassador Patrick Wilson. "It tells the story of an 'I just got out of the sea' glossy look that looks effortless and summery. The style is all about having luxuriously deep waves with a shaken-out finish for an uber fresh, cool look," he says. "It is all about creating a subtle, wavy texture rather than curl. This is a flatter wave that doesn't have the volume or width of a traditional curly blow-dry, making it ideal for a more modern, sleek look. It’s a great look that can be created on all hair lengths."

What You'll Need

To create your S waves, you'll need a good heat protector, a pair of hair straighteners, a wide-toothed comb and a texturising spray or salt spray.

1. Prep Hair

You'll want to start on straight, dry hair and use a good heat protector before styling your hair to shield your lengths from heat damage.

2. The Technique

Wilson tells me that you can use a triple waver; however, a hair straightener can achieve the same look and gives you more control over the wave. "Personally, I like to use the GHD Chronos Hair Straightener (£299) to add bends and kinks in the hair using an S-bend motion," he says.

"Place the straightener at your eye level and move the styler down an inch and flip it in the opposite direction, creating an 'S' shape in the hair," says Wilson. "When starting the bends and waves in your hair, don’t start too high or into your parting; otherwise, this creates too much height at the root and looks more done than it needs to," he says.

3. Wave Hair

Then, repeat the motion throughout the rest of your hair. "Continue this motion back and forth, leaving the ends straight for a more undone finish," says Wilson. You can experiment with the size of each section you're waving. I find larger sections will give a softer effect, whereas smaller sections give a more piecey texture, which works well on face-framing layers.

4. Brush Out

Next, you can dishevel the waves with a wide-toothed comb to make them look even more effortless. "Let the hair cool and set before brushing out; otherwise, the style won't stay," says Wilson.

5. Add Product

"Finish with a spritz of hairspray and follow with Hair by Sam McKnight Cool Girl Texture Mist for a ‘done’ yet ever so slightly dishevelled, effortless look," says Wilson.

6. The Result

And there you have your S waves. For second-day hair, Wilson recommends misting through a salt spray, which is the perfect product to revive the waves and add grit and texture.

Sure, a bold chrome or bright pastel manicure always works well at this time of year, but if there is one look that keeps stopping my scroll, it's a crisp white nail design. Crisp, clean and endlessly versatile, the nail trend feels more elevated than ever, with soft milky finishes, minimalist floral detail and fashion-forward French tips.

The key to making the look feel expensive rather than stark lies in the application, says Hannah Taylor, nail tech and brand ambassador for The GelBottle Inc. "White polish can be one of the trickiest shades to apply because it's so highly pigmented, but the key is using thin, even coats rather than trying to achieve full coverage in one."

She recommends applying two to three thin layers, allowing each coat to settle before the next. "A smoothing base coat also makes a huge difference, as white highlights every ridge or imperfection on the nail. Finishing with a glossy top coat helps create a crisp, salon-quality finish," she adds.

When choosing a design, Taylor recommends keeping things understated. "When I’m creating a chic white manicure, I always think about balance. Rather than opting for a solid block of white on every nail. Look for designs with negative space, French tips or accents that elevate the look without overwhelming it."

As for shades, she clarifies that soft milky whites often feel more modern than stark bright whites. "I'm a fan of Milky BIAB by TGB, which now also comes in Hard BIAB formula too for extra strength." Finally, she says, "Choose a design that complements your nail shape and length as this will always give the most timeless, expensive-looking result."

Below are the chicest white nail designs that I'll be wearing for summer and beyond.

13 White Nails Designs to Try Now

1. Floral Acent

These delicate floral accents traced along the side of the nail add a subtle, romantic twist to an otherwise minimalist white manicure.

2. 90s French

No one is championing the French tip trend quite like Kylie Jenner. Her chunky white tips give the classic look a bold, nostalgic update that's made for summer.

3. Vanilla Cream

These soft vanilla nails on shorter nails offer a warmer, more wearable take on classic white, delivering an understated manicure that goes with everything.

4. Micro Daisies

These tiny daisy details soften the sharp silhouette of stiletto nails, creating a look that's both edgy and romantic.

5. Reverse Polka Dots

For those of you who are loyal to a splash of colour, this reverse polka dot design flips the classic colour pairing on its head, making it a standout choice for summer.

6. Micro French

Proof that sometimes less really is more, this crisp micro French tip on a glossy nude base delivers a manicure that's never looked more high-end.

7. Fluid Tips

This cool blend of animal print and abstract art is a bold way to update an otherwise timeless manicure.

8. Slanted Tips

For a contemporary edge, look no further.

9. Frosted White

This subtle hint of shimmer is perfect for summer party season.

10. Coastal Cool

Starfish accents paired with tiny gold jewels transform a classic manicure into a wearable piece of coastal-inspired jewellery.

11. White Stripes

Reminiscent of a classic striped deck chair, this white nail design brings a nostalgic summer feel with a cool blue finish.

12. Micro Dot

Small but perfectly placed, this minimalist dot detail adds a hint of personality to an otherwise clean manicure.

13. Ice White

This toothpaste bright white nail is hella fresh and luminous.

Shop White Nail Polishes

As someone who has spent the best part of the last year with a fresh gel manicure on rotation, I'd almost forgotten what my natural nails looked like. While I love the glossy, long-lasting finish that gel delivers, I recently decided to take a break and embrace bare nails for a while. Partly because I wanted to give my nails a chance to recover, but also because there's something undeniably chic about healthy, buffed, natural nails—especially now that understated manicures are having such a moment.

The reality, however, was that removing months of gel left my nails feeling thinner, drier and far more prone to breaking than I'd remembered. Rather than immediately reaching for another strengthening polish, I found myself falling down a rabbit hole of nail masks—a category that promises to nourish, repair, and strengthen nails in much the same way that a face mask or hair treatment revives skin and strands.

Unlike traditional nail strengtheners, nail masks come in a surprising number of formats. Some resemble clear nail polishes that form a protective treatment layer, while others are lightweight serums packed with bond-building ingredients, nourishing oils designed to replenish brittle nails and cuticles, or rich creams that work overnight to restore hydration. Whether your nails are recovering from months of gel, feeling weak after frequent polish changes, or simply looking a little lacklustre, there's now a treatment designed specifically to target almost every concern.

After weeks of testing some of the most talked-about formulas, these are the nail masks and intensive treatments I'd genuinely recommend investing in.

The Best Nail Masks

1. Best Overall: Margaret Dabbs Nail Strengthening Treatment
2. Best for Growth: Manucurist Care SOS Mask
3. Best for Instant Results: Nails Inc. Overnight Detox Mask
4. Best for Damaged Nails: OPI Repair Mode Bond Building Nail Serum
5. Best for Weak Nails: Navy Strength Nail Treatment

1. Margaret Dabbs Nail Strengthening Treatment

2. Manucurist Care SOS Night Mask

3. Nails Inc. Overnight Detox Mask Strengthening Nail Treatment

4. OPI Repair Mode Bond Building Nail Serum

5. Navy Strength Nail Treatment

6. Manucurist Active Bright

7. Butter London Horse Power Nail Rescue

8. Margaret Dabbs Nail & Cuticle Serum

9. Manucurist Huile Verte

How We Tested

Over several weeks, I swapped my usual gel manicures for a natural nail routine to properly assess how these treatments performed on weakened, post-gel nails. I tested each product according to the brand's instructions, paying close attention to improvements in hydration, strength, peeling, breakage and overall appearance. Alongside my own experience, I also considered ingredient technology, ease of use, value for money and customer reviews to determine which formulas were genuinely worth recommending.

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including some skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

French women are synonymous with effortless, low-key beauty, but when the temperatures soar above 30°C, their routines become even more streamlined. Swipes of red lipstick make way for taps of tinted lip balm. Some individuals even forgo makeup altogether, and only essential skincare heroes (serum-like sunscreen, facial mist) make it into their carry-ons. Though you may find some surprising staples, such as a cooling jelly sheet mask, peeking out of their straw totes.

Basically, if you're ever looking for "work smarter, not harder" summer beauty recommendations, you should ask a French woman for a glimpse inside her beach bag. If that sounds rather unrealistic and perhaps a little extra, the next best thing you can do is scroll ahead. I tasked three of the chicest French women I know with sharing their ride-or-die holiday items for every getaway imaginable. Your summer awaits!

Franny Fyne, Content Creator

I shouldn't be surprised that Paris-based content creator Franny Fyne, with her wispy French-girl fringe and collection of minimalist-chic outfits, has her vacation beauty regimen down to a science. "On holiday, my routine takes all of five minutes," she tells me, noting l'Ampolla—a small village in Catalonia—as her favourite getaway spot. "Several beaches, a little house a few kilometres away surrounded by olive trees, a timeless atmosphere… It's my anchor, my annual reset for the past few years." While she hasn't booked concrete plans this year, "l'Ampolla doesn't ask for much, and that's exactly what makes it [her] little corner of paradise."

If and when she does book the trip, she'll pack just the essentials: sunscreen, a gel face mask she chills in the freezer the night before ("I take it out when the heat becomes truly intense—guaranteed surprise from everyone around me and immediate soothing relief," she quips), and a few "no-makeup" makeup heroes for a lightweight, dewy visage. "Letting the skin breathe while giving it that little radiance that makes all the difference," she adds.

All these staples—along with a book, a pareo skirt and sun oil—pile up in her wicker basket, which she deems the ultimate Euro summer accessory. "It embodies that quiet nonchalance that nothing else can quite imitate," she says. "It sets the tone before you've even set foot on the sand. Ultimately, [it's] the most French thing there is."

Shop Fyne's Beach Bag

Sophie Carbonari, Celebrity Aesthetician

"I don't make summer plans. I've decided that spontaneity is the ultimate luxury I can afford myself at this point. I simply close my studio when I want to leave and go," Paris-based celebrity aesthetician Sophie Carbonari says. That sentence officially cements her as the chicest Parisian I know—as if I didn't already consider her iconic. Typically, however, her summer starts in Arles for a weeklong getaway, commencing with the Rencontres d'Arles photography festival.

"Breakfast at Mazette, lunch at Nord-Pinus (where I work from my laptop), afternoons browsing at L'Arlatan, shopping at Moustique, flamenco nights, and dinner at Inari. From there, I visit friends in Marseille, then head to the Amalfi Coast—Naples and the surrounding area. I get everything I love: art, sea, food, and sun," she muses. "But honestly, who knows where I'll go this year?" It seems like a solid plan to me!

Given she's one of Paris's most sought-after facialists, you better believe she has her on-the-go skincare routine down pat. "I try to be minimal but intentional," she says, encouraging refreshing mist, smoothing serum and post-sun recovery formulas, all of which you'll discover below. "People think skincare is optional on vacation, but it's actually when it matters most," she adds. "Sun damage, salt water, chlorine, dehydration—your skin is under siege. You either support it or spend the next month recovering."

Shop Carbonari's Beach Bag

Violette Serrat, Makeup Artist

Violette Serrat certainly knows a thing or two about low-maintenance makeup. "The only way to look effortless is to be effortless. That's really the secret. It's five minutes in the bathroom, not 50," the iconic makeup artist and Violette_FR founder once told me about her best French beauty tips. Of course, her holiday beauty regimen subscribes to a similar philosophy, whether she's headed to the South of France ("truly one of my favourite places in the world," she tells me) or, like this summer, recharging at her home in picturesque Connecticut. Case in point? When headed to the beach, this makeup artist actually eschews makeup.

"I never wear makeup to the beach, just a little Balm Amour for healthy shine, a bandana—which French women always seem to have—and a book that I seem to never have time to read," she shares. "For me, French beauty is about enjoying the moment, not worrying about how you look." With that, find her pre- and post-sun essentials ahead.

Shop Serrat's Beach Bag

Opening image: @frannfyne

As both a beauty editor and a working facialist, one of the questions I'm asked more than almost any other is, "What skincare routine should I be using for mature skin?" And whilst there are thousands of products promising to erase wrinkles overnight, the reality is far less complicated than the beauty industry often makes it seem.

After spending years testing products professionally, treating skin in the clinic and helping clients build routines that actually fit their lifestyle, I've found that the biggest mistake people make isn't choosing the wrong products—it's trying to do too much. Mature skin doesn't need a 15-step routine filled with every trending ingredient. In fact, overloading the skin often leads to irritation, dehydration and a compromised skin barrier, making many signs of ageing appear even more pronounced.

Instead, I encourage my clients to think about skincare as supporting the skin's natural functions rather than fighting against ageing itself. As we get older, skin naturally becomes slower at repairing itself, produces less oil, loses collagen and elastin, and struggles to retain moisture as efficiently as it once did. The goal of a routine for mature skin is to compensate for those changes with ingredients that protect, strengthen and replenish.

The good news? You don't need an entirely new skincare wardrobe every decade. A few well-chosen products used consistently will almost always outperform an overflowing bathroom cabinet. Below, I've broken down exactly how I recommend building a skincare routine for mature skin, from the essential morning steps that defend against environmental damage to the evening products that support repair whilst you sleep.

What to Look For

The most common changes I see in my mature clients are increased dryness, dullness, loss of firmness, fine lines, slower healing and a reduction in overall radiance. Many people also notice that products they used for years suddenly don't seem to perform in quite the same way, simply because the skin's needs have evolved. Cell turnover naturally slows, collagen production declines, and the skin barrier becomes more vulnerable to dehydration and environmental stressors.

Rather than trying to correct every visible sign of ageing, I recommend prioritising skin health first. Well-hydrated, resilient skin almost always looks smoother, brighter and healthier regardless of age. When choosing products, look for formulas that support the skin barrier, deliver long-lasting hydration, provide antioxidant protection and encourage collagen production without causing unnecessary irritation. Consistency will always have a bigger impact than using the strongest active ingredients available.

How to Build a Skincare Routine for Mature Skin

Whenever I'm building a skincare routine for clients, I follow one simple principle: every product should have a clear purpose. Rather than layering multiple products that all claim to do the same thing, I focus on creating a balanced routine that protects the skin during the day and supports repair overnight.

In the morning, the priority is prevention. This means cleansing away overnight oil and sweat before applying antioxidants to help defend against free radical damage, moisturising ingredients to strengthen the skin barrier and, most importantly, a broad-spectrum sunscreen to protect collagen from UV damage. No anti-ageing product will outperform daily SPF.

Evening skincare is where I encourage clients to invest a little more time. Whilst we sleep, the skin naturally shifts into repair mode, making it the ideal time to introduce ingredients like retinoids that encourage collagen production and improve skin texture over time. Because mature skin is often drier, I also like to pair stronger actives with hydrating serums and nourishing moisturisers to minimise irritation and keep the skin barrier healthy.

Above all, don't feel pressured to overhaul your routine overnight. Introduce one active ingredient at a time, allow your skin several weeks to adjust and prioritise consistency over perfection. In my experience as a facialist, the routines that deliver the best long-term results are rarely the most complicated; they're the ones people actually enjoy using every single day.

Morning Skincare Routine

1. Cleanser

A morning cleanse helps remove sweat, excess oil and any skincare residue left behind overnight without stripping the skin. For mature skin, I always recommend a gentle, hydrating cleanser rather than anything that leaves the skin feeling tight or squeaky clean. Cream, milk and low-foaming gel formulas are all excellent options, particularly if your skin leans dry or sensitive. If your skin feels comfortable after cleansing, you've chosen the right formula; the goal is simply to refresh the complexion whilst preserving the skin barrier.

Shop Cleansers for Mature Skin:

2. Toner

Forget the alcohol-heavy toners of the past. Today's formulas are designed to replenish hydration, calm inflammation, and prepare the skin for the products that follow. I like to think of toner as your first layer of hydration, especially for mature skin that tends to lose moisture more easily. Look for ingredients like glycerin, hyaluronic acid, panthenol, or soothing botanical extracts, and avoid anything that leaves the skin feeling dry or tight.

Shop Toners for Mature Skin:

3. Antioxidant Serum

If there's one serum I recommend almost universally for mature skin, it's an antioxidant. Ingredients such as vitamin C, vitamin E and ferulic acid help neutralise free radicals created by UV exposure and pollution, both of which contribute to collagen breakdown and premature skin ageing. Alongside helping protect the skin, antioxidant serums can also improve brightness and support a more even-looking complexion over time. Apply before moisturiser each morning for maximum protection.

Shop Antioxidant Serums for Mature Skin:

4. Moisturiser

As oil production naturally declines with age, a moisturiser becomes increasingly important for maintaining a healthy skin barrier. Rather than simply adding water to the skin, a good moisturiser helps prevent moisture loss throughout the day whilst softening the appearance of fine lines caused by dehydration. I recommend looking for ingredients like ceramides, squalane, peptides and fatty acids, which help replenish the skin and support long-term resilience.

Shop Moisturisers for Mature Skin:

5. Sunscreen

If you only commit to one anti-ageing product, make it sunscreen. Daily UV exposure is the single biggest contributor to collagen loss, pigmentation, and premature wrinkles, making SPF the foundation of every mature skincare routine. Choose a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher and apply it generously every morning, even on cloudy days. Consistent sunscreen use protects the results of every other skincare product you're investing in whilst helping to prevent future damage.

Shop Sunscreens for Mature Skin:

Evening Skincare Routine

1. Cream Cleanser

Evening cleansing is arguably the most important cleanse of the day, removing sunscreen, makeup, pollution and excess oil that accumulate on the skin. For mature skin, I almost always recommend a nourishing cream cleanser to dissolve impurities without disrupting the skin barrier. If you wear heavier makeup or water-resistant sunscreen, double cleansing can be beneficial to ensure thorough removal.

Shop Cream Cleansers for Mature Skin:

2. Retinoid Serum

Retinoids remain one of the most thoroughly researched ingredients for improving visible signs of ageing. Used consistently, they encourage collagen production, support faster cell turnover, and help soften the appearance of fine lines, uneven pigmentation, and rough texture. If you're new to retinoids, introduce them gradually—starting once or twice a week—and build up slowly as your skin adjusts. Pairing them with hydrating products can help minimise dryness and irritation during the adjustment period.

Shop Retinoid Serums for Mature Skin:

3. Eye Cream

The skin around the eyes is naturally thinner and often shows signs of ageing earlier than the rest of the face. Whilst an eye cream isn't essential for everyone, I find they're worthwhile if you have concerns like dryness, fine lines, or puffiness. Look for ingredients such as peptides, caffeine, ceramides or hyaluronic acid depending on your primary concern, and apply gently using your ring finger to avoid unnecessary tugging.

Shop Eye Creams for Mature Skin:

4. Hydrating Serum

Hydration becomes increasingly important as skin matures, particularly if you're using active ingredients like retinoids. Applying a hydrating serum in the evening helps replenish moisture levels whilst supporting a healthy skin barrier overnight. Ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, glycerin, polyglutamic acid and panthenol all help attract and retain water within the skin, leaving it looking plumper and more comfortable by morning.

Shop Hydrating Serums for Mature Skin:

5. Night Cream

Your final evening step should help lock in hydration and support the skin's overnight repair processes. Mature skin often benefits from richer moisturisers containing ceramides, peptides and nourishing plant oils that reinforce the skin barrier whilst reducing overnight moisture loss. Rather than feeling heavy, a well-formulated night cream should leave skin feeling comfortable and supple by morning, helping maintain a healthy, resilient complexion over time.

Shop Night Creams for Mature Skin:

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

As beauty journalists, we're used to seeing hundreds of new beauty products pass our beauty desk every single month. So, we're always testing new makeup, skincare, fragrance and hair care (we're truly spoilt, I know). But despite having access to a cupboard full of beauty products, there are always our firm favourites that have a permanent residency in our makeup bags. These are the products that we're never swayed away from, no matter what shiny new launch comes along. And for me, the Lisa Eldridge Seamless Skin Enhancing Tint (£39) is a skin tint I just know I'll be using forever.

Lisa Eldridge Seamless Skin Enhancing Tint

The Formula

Lisa Eldridge MBE is one of the world's top makeup artists who has worked with just about every famous face you could name, so I never doubted that this formula wouldn't be anything short of exceptional. Eldridge is renowned for her natural-looking approach to the complexion, preferring to place foundation and complexion products only in the places they're really needed rather than masking the skin. And she has totally bottled this ethos in this skin tint.

Inside the pebble-shaped bottle is a tint with a water-like consistency, which immediately sinks into the skin, offering a sheer, lightweight finish that's akin to a second skin and does so without highlighting enlarged pores or fine lines.

The formula contains hydrating ingredients such as squalane, glycerin and prickly pear and sunflower seed oils. As someone with oily-leaning skin, I was initially worried it would be too heavy on my skin, but it sits beautifully. I love a naturally radiant finish, and this skin tint delivers just that. It's neither too dewy nor too matte, but just looks like skin that has a healthy glow. This would be perfect for those with dry or combination skin, but is still matte enough for those with oilier skin who favour a more glowy finish.

The Finish

What I love about this skin tint is that it offers the perfect amount of coverage without feeling like you're wearing anything at all. It blurs redness and pigmentation, yet it still lets my freckles peek through. Of course, the sheer finish won't offer enough coverage to hide inflamed acne or redness, but it's perfect for day-to-day makeup when you want to even your skin, and it makes a great base to then apply a little concealer in just the places that require it. It's the ultimate "no makeup" makeup skin tint.

It wears so well throughout the day, whether worn alone on top of SPF, or finished with concealer and powder. The finish isn't so dewy that it disappears, yet not too matte that it clings to any dryness. I'm prone to oiliness around my nose and chin, yet this holds up throughout the day and never turns oily or cakey—a little powder on top sets it perfectly.

The shade range is expansive, covering a range of undertones across different shades so that you can find a good match for your skin tone. I'm writing this review in the height of summer, where I have a bit more of a tan at the moment, and shade T7 has been a great match for my complexion, which has neutral undertones. In short, I'll never be without a bottle of this skin tint in my makeup bag.

Shop Now:

How We Tested

I've been using the Lisa Eldridge Seamless Skin Enhancing Tint since it launched, and it's become an everyday staple in my makeup bag. I have oily-combination skin, so I've put this skin tint through its paces to see how it holds up on my skin type, as well as how it wears over SPF and with other makeup. I've also tested a couple of the shades in the range during the warmer and cooler months.

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including some skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

As much as I love to indulge in a trending beauty hack or new product every now and then, there’s something about classic and polished makeup that draws me in every time. And this, of course, extends to my blushers, opting for pared-back hues like brown and burgundy over bold shades each and every time. However, luckily for me, there’s a new blush trend on the radar of chic people that perfectly strikes the balance between feeling fresh for 2026 and timeless enough to fit seamlessly into my classic makeup routine. And you might just recognise it from '90s makeup looks. Enter the nude blush.

Between capri pants, thin eyebrows and low-rise jeans, it's clear that 2026 is the year of the ‘90s revival. But none of these things feels quite as compelling to me as the return of the nude blush. It enhances your natural complexion without looking overdone or taking you out of your comfort zone, creating a healthy, natural-looking flush on the cheeks. It also works well with every type of makeup look, from a bold red lip to your everyday "no-makeup" makeup look. Not to mention that this flattering blush trend will never ever look dated, even in the many years to come.

As someone with a deeper skin tone, I think of a nude blush as a dark brown or rich mocha hue; however, there are plenty of options on the market to suit every skin tone and undertone.

I'm personally planning to wear this chic blush trend from now and well into the autumn and winter seasons. And if you are too, keep scrolling to see and shop the best nude blushes for every skin tone.

Best Nude Blushes, According to a Beauty Writer

• Best Overall: MAC Cosmetics Skinfinish Colourstruck Blush (£28)
• Best Liquid Blush: Nars Insatiable Liquid Blush (£36)
• Best Cream Blush: Merit Beauty Flush Balm (£26)
• Best Powder Blush: BareMinerals Gen Nude Powder Blush (£27)

1. MAC Cosmetics Skinfinish Colourstruck Blush

When it comes to championing the ‘90s nude blush trend, it should come as no surprise that MAC Cosmetics is at the top of this list. And with 29 shades (11 of which are nude) to choose from, it’s no wonder why this blush is constantly being praised on social media at the moment. So, of course, after seeing the rave reviews on my TikTok For You Page, I decided to give it a try. I’m obsessed with the blurring effect this blush has, even with the shades that have a more radiant finish. It’s the perfect second-skin blush to add to the soft-matte makeup looks I’ll be turning to when early autumn comes around. My only recommendation would be to prep your skin properly if you have dry skin like me.

2. Merit Beauty Flush Balm